Alma Mater

2020 EDITION

1 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020

CONTENTS

From the Principal 2-3 Prefect report 4 Pedagogy report 5 Sowing seeds of sustainability 6-7 A new chapter for Kindergarten 8 Fleeing war and finding paradise of the earth 9 Staff in the spotlight 10-11 Community outreach 12-13 Term 1 in photos 14-15 Class of 2019 16 150 Faces special deal 17 Reunions galore 18-19 Anecdotes from the archives 20 Vale Christine Wood 21 Staying in touch with our alumni 22-26 Alumni achievements 27 Welcome to Setup for Success 28 From the Principal

Editors: Stefania Bostock and Shelley I can’t help but think we are living ‘everything’, had ceased to exist. Medhurst. Articles and photos are a combined effort from students, staff and alumni. through history. The current Adults continue to struggle with Cover image: Sydney Woods circumstances of COVID-19 unemployment, and have been and Lucinda Pfund around the world, of death, illness, working from home, keeping kids fear and lockdown, have caused at home and not seeing their usual widespread disruption to the daily support networks. lives of people, young and old. For our small children it meant adapting As a school, we had largely gone to to a world where they can’t play in learning online. While we remained a park or visit their grandparents. open for students, the vast majority For many, they couldn't learn at were learning from home. Teachers school. For our older students, who were using digital platforms such 164 Harrington Street, , 7000 were mostly learning from home, as Seesaw, ClassDojo, SEQTA and (03) 6108 2560 their social world, which is their Microsoft Teams to work with their [email protected] www.smc.tas.edu.au

Printed: 5 June 2020 2 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 classes. They set work for students we are back together and share a and provided feedback through classroom, a playground and a meal. digital technology. The school In this challenging What turns out to be a significant building was quiet; classrooms time, we all must truth in education is that the empty, except for the presence practice of teaching and learning is of teachers, sitting on their own, look for ways to a social enterprise. While we might talking to a laptop. We worked hard need to find better ways of doing it, to ensure we prioritised student connect with our we have now broken the industrial wellbeing and connecting with fellow humans. model of schooling, and I’m individual students in this strange convinced it won’t be replaced by time. Each day we had some digital learning. In the meantime, we students at school, more in the online facility, but we all know it will continue to look for ways to be younger year groups. isn’t the same. together and to love one another.

As the pandemic transpires and its Being human demands that we are Helen Spencer impacts continue to unfold, we are in relationship — in fellowship. If Principal all made to slow down and take you think of The Last Supper, it was stock of what is truly significant. simply a shared meal, but at the It turns out that Jesus’ greatest This page: A view of the College and same time, of course, it was much teaching rings true, even in these surrounds at sunrise (taken by former more than that. Our humanity binds most challenging times – love one Senior School Counsellor, Andrea us. In this challenging time, we all another. We are finding new ways Maver). must look for ways to connect with to express this love with digital Opposite page (top-bottom): Faith our fellow humans. Mother's Day and ‘Zooming’ with Wara; Patrick Moloney; Fatima friends. We are lucky to have this St Mary’s College is rejoicing now Akbari.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 3 PREFECT REPORT

Culture of resilience

This Prefect report will be very different from those of the past. At the conclusion of Term 1, the Prefects usually have carnivals, events and fundraisers to help organise and participate in. This is not the case for the 2020 Prefects due to the unprecedented times we are living through. Fortunately, we were able to sneak in a few events before we were all homebound. There is no doubt that this year is going to be one for the record books!

We started off the year with the Leaders' Commissioning in St Mary’s Cathedral. This was a motivator for the Year 12 cohort to make the most of their leadership opportunities. Following this, we had a busy week arise with the Big Splash; the annual International Women’s Day breakfast (IWD), which we hosted at the College, and the Alliance of Girls' Schools AustraIasia IWD breakfast at Ogilvie High School. The aim of these events is to empower women to live out their dreams and be the best version of themselves they can be.

With preparations for the Mother’s Day breakfast sadly cancelled, the Prefects kept busy by making knitted blankets. Once completed, these blankets will be donated to St Vincent de Paul for its Winter Appeal and distributed by Loui’s Van and other Vinnies groups for Tasmania’s homeless community.

This year, as Presentation people, our resilience is certainly being tested. To address this challenge, the Prefect body created an online video offering study tips and wellbeing advice to our fellow students as we all learn to cope with adversity at this time.

The Prefects are pleased to be back at school with everyone and This page (top-bottom): The College Prefect team we can't wait to get back to planning big and exciting things! of 2020; the fiddly task of putting a blanket together; the Prefects at this year's International Amy Prokopiec Women's Day Breakfast. Head Prefect

4 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 Silver lining for learning PEDAGOGY

This year has been like no other for students and teachers. Learning from home and social distancing requirements created an enormous challenge for educators across our nation, which was then amplified by schools and education being the focus for daily political debate. The response to COVID-19 from the St Mary’s College community, however, reinforces why our College is an outstanding educational institution. During a time of considerable stress and insecurity, St Mary’s staff have maintained learning for our students at home while changing workplace practices to create a safe environment for those at school. teacher-student relationships are a cornerstone of education. During the final weeks of first term, Teachers have been As educators, being able to teachers spent many hours on top outstanding in their observe students as they struggle of their regular teaching duties with learning, intervene where undertaking professional learning ability to manage appropriate and build their trust and to plan age-appropriate remote resilience to take risks with their or online learning. In lower Junior fundamental changes learning is a social activity that is School, our existing digital learning in how they best done in a physical classroom platform, Seesaw, was combined rather than a remote online with other digital resources to deliver lessons. environment. Schools provide much deliver online lessons that even more than academic learning. included recordings of teachers During this period of social isolation, demonstrating tasks and online provide live or recorded lessons. the value to our students and school reading activities. As younger When online, students interacted community of pastoral, sporting and students are not fully independent with their teacher, asked questions cultural activities, or just being with learners, these packages were in real-time, shared ideas with their friends, has never been clearer. In designed for parents to support class and received instruction on recent years, some ‘futurists’ have learning at home. Upper Junior key knowledge and skills. For our suggested that physical schools School and Senior School teachers Year 11 and 12 students especially, may disappear as the digital world combined multiple digital platforms having a teacher available to explain grows. One silver lining from important concepts was critical such as SEQTA, Microsoft Teams, COVID-19 may be a reminder of during this challenging time. Most OneNote and Maths Pathway the interpersonal nature of learning leading academics in education to deliver a flexible approach to and teaching and the vital role that believe that teacher clarity and well- remote learning. Throughout the schools play in educating the whole managed explicit instruction remain COVID-19 response, teachers have child. been outstanding in their ability to vital cogs in education, with the use manage increased workloads and of digital technologies providing a Simon Eade the fundamental changes in how means for teachers to actually teach Director of Pedagogy they deliver lessons. their students.

The digital communication platform, However, remote learning also This page: Year 4 teacher Nicky Microsoft Teams, has been an highlighted to teachers and students Wakefield delivers a class online. invaluable element of online lesson the limitations of digital learning. delivery, enabling teachers to We are social beings and positive

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 5 Sowing seeds of sustainability

St Mary’s College is showing passion enough crockery, cutlery and cups to for its environment, while at the same help serve up its new menu to more time reducing its ecological footprint, The College is than 1,000 staff and students who with the launch of its new canteen. revolutionising the then return the dishes to the canteen at the end of the day to be washed When members of the College’s and reused. student-led sustainability group, The menu of an old-style Footprint Project, noticed waste canteen and instead, is Staff and students are encouraged to coming from the canteen, they set purchase juice and hot beverages in their sights on an environmentally plating up freshly made, their own reusable cup, or they can friendly shake-up. locally sourced and borrow a mug from the canteen’s mug library. Barista-made coffee has The College had planned also proven popular among parents at improvements to the operation of sustainable options. the morning school drop-off. the canteen and, with the newfound student support, was able to The College is revolutionising the successfully implement the changes Since adopting a package-free menu of an old-style canteen and in late 2019. policy, waste and bin volumes have instead, is plating up freshly made, decreased significantly, with only one locally sourced and sustainable The school canteen plays an garbage bin of rubbish now coming options to create a positive important role in the College’s from the canteen each day. environmental impact. sustainability movement, which looks at positive ways to improve waste Canteen staff actively and The menu takes a seasonal approach management practices and reduce consistently think of the best use of with a rotating specials board, similar the amount of waste sent to landfill. products that come into the College to that found in a café. Serving The canteen previously sold drinks and consider the waste products breakfast, recess and lunch, menu in plastic bottles, flavoured milk in created in production and whether offerings are varied and include non-recyclable cartons, icy poles they can be composted, recycled or paninis, spanakopita, vegetable with plastic wrappers and food, such reused after their initial use. frittata with house made relish, as slices, wraps and rolls, packaged Following a review of sustainable burrito bowls and salads, as well as and sealed in single-use, disposable practices, the College purchased traditional canteen favourites like plastic. toasted sandwiches, sausage rolls and

6 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 chocolate brownies. radish, pak choi, spring onion and SEASONAL RECIPE rocket. The new canteen is a big hit with our students, with more purchases of Students will have an active green lunches, drinks and snacks than with thumb on the garden beds and PHIL'S the previous model. will also assist with watering and harvesting the fresh produce. Canteen Manager, Phil Shanny is a BEETROOT welcome addition to staff at St Mary’s While these changes have directly College and has been a supporter of reduced the school’s volume of RELISH the sustainable food movement for waste, they have also helped more than 10 years. students to understand how to make With its vibrant red hues and daily sustainable choices which, sweet, earthy flavour, beetroot Working on his own sustainable in turn, have led to eco-conscious is a standout winter crop, and a organic farm, Phil started his decision-making in the home. versatile one too. This season, why relationship with the College several not make your own beetroot relish? years ago, collecting compost and The College has also seen a It’s the perfect accompaniment returning it to the school as fertiliser reinvigorated commitment to to barbecued meats, salads for general use and gardening initiatives like Plastic Free July and and sandwiches – and makes a projects in the Junior School. Nude Food Day. wonderful gift too. Phil has also made his own way in The College's biennial sustainability organic farming and supplies seasonal event (likely to be in held in 2021) Ingredients produce to Hobart locals. He started is currently being planned, with 2kg fresh beetroot washed with the in hospitality at the age of 11, looking students to invite families and the stems removed up to his father who was a chef, and wider College community to share 2 brown onions sliced continued his passion for food and information and practical tips in 2 apples or tomatoes cored, peeled farming, delving into catering and workshops led by local sustainability and diced events, making him an ideal candidate experts. The event is also set to 500g sugar as Canteen Manager. feature sustainable activities for 250ml balsamic vinegar all ages and, of course, food and St Mary’s is excited about drawing 2 tablespoons cumin beverage from the College’s very on Phil’s knowledge and the prospect 2 tablespoons coriander own environmentally conscious of developing the College’s garden canteen. beds to provide seasonal vegetables Directions for the canteen, further reducing the 1. Boil beetroot until cooked paddock to plate journey to just a few through and the skin pulls off. This page (top-bottom): Izabella metres. 2. Grate the beetroot and add Jankowiak and Evie Farrell in the to the pot with the remaining Preparations for the edible garden College’s new edible garden; Prep are now in full swing, with Prep and students help plant seedlings in the ingredients. garden beds. Year 5 students recently pulling up 3. Bring to the boil, allowing the Opposite page (left-right): Canteen their sleeves to help sow the seeds sugar to dissolve. Manager, Phil Shanny; Ruby Robinson 4. Reduce heat to a medium-low for a variety of delicious vegetables, and Freya Dickman. including broad beans, garlic, white simmer for about one hour. 5. Pour into sterilised jars, or enjoy immediately.

Phil's tip Keep the leaves and stems! Beetroot leaves can be used in a salad or steamed like you would spinach or chard.

The stems are delicious when roasted with a little olive oil and salt and added to a salad, or tossed through with good quality parmesan and chilli flakes.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 7 A new chapter for KINDERGARTEN

The beginning of the school year is ‘growing our love of learning’, which The College provides a play- always filled with anticipation for explores important teaching and based educational program that students and parents alike, but for learning concepts like motivation, takes into account the different the College’s Kinder pupils, next year efficacy and independence, and interests, cultural backgrounds and will be particularly special. shapes these in a way that is developmental levels of all children, understandable for all stages of where the focus is on enhancing In an exciting move for its future, St development. their strengths and recognising that Mary’s College will mark a milestone children develop at their own pace in its history by enrolling its first-ever Director of Junior School, Brigid to reach their individual potential. girls-only Kinder class in 2021. Knight, is a passionate early years educator who believes the change While changing to girls-only in the Opportunities to learn continue to all-girls for Kinder in 2021 will early years is new for St Mary’s, the beyond the classroom, with Kinder provide a great start for students at College has been leading the way in students encouraged and supported St Mary’s College. girls’ education for decades, having to explore and experiment with their girls-only classes from Year 3 to Year In a class where there are only natural surroundings in the adjacent 12 on the one central campus. girls, girls take on every available outdoor play area. role and opportunity. There are no Founded by strong women, we know Limited places are available for girls engendered roles in a girls-only class the key to building bright futures in 2021. For enrolment enquiries, and every girl can be who she is and is ensuring girls and young women please contact Enrolment Officer, teachers can ensure there are no have all the opportunities that Fiona Medwin on (03) 6108 2560, hidden messages about gender and Catholic schooling and education email [email protected] or visit limitation. presents. www.smc.tas.edu.au. The Kinder program at the College In the early years, we teach our girls is designed to nurture and provide in a framework of belonging, being This page (left-right): Kinder students opportunities to build confidence, and becoming, and St Mary’s is just at play; girls enjoying lunch outside. independence and the joy of the place for girls to belong, be and discovery and learning which will Opposite page: 2020 Heywire winner, become. carry on well beyond the early years Joly Karabite. The College's vision for learning is setting.

8 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 ‘We had another chance in another country — after my family had fallen to pieces’. Fleeing war and finding In December 2019, St Mary’s 'PARADISE OF THE EARTH' College student Joly Karabite (who is now in Year 12) was named as one of the regional winners of the ABC radio competition, Heywire. The winning piece Joly submitted was a moving short story on how she came to call Tasmania home after fleeing war-torn Syria in search of a new life. As one of the 37 winners of the national competition, Joly travelled to Canberra in February to attend the Heywire Regional Youth Summit. During the summit, the winners met with Members of Parliament and community leaders to develop ideas to strengthen their communities. All the winning stories are available to stream via the ABC listen app. Joly's story, titled My Shiny Star, has been included in its transcribed form below.

Hello, my shiny star, I miss you, my way and to keep me warm. She friends. One day at an internet when are you coming back? tried to take your turn, to be the cafe, we applied for strong father and the soft mother. immigration, hoping for a miracle I am waiting for you dad, I am to happen. standing behind the door waiting And finally, I heard the people for your voice to call me, waiting yelling, "He came back”, my dad We were hopeless and for you to take me to your chest, had come back home. disappointed until we got a call to take your heavy bag and the from the Australian Immigration But not the way I wished. He came huge weapon on your shoulder, to telling us that our application had back in a coffin. take your sadness and put it inside been accepted in Ankara. Here was the beginning of my long my lungs keeping it away from you. After four years we forgot all the journey. I packed my feelings and Weeks, days and nights I waited suffering, leaving Turkey with a big all my dreams, leaving my heart for you. One noisy night I just smile and big goodbye, moving to and all my memories next to my opened my eyes, I looked at all Australia without knowing where dad’s grave. this darkness around me. I started we were going, to start a new, to see my future as a series of I left the nation of war with my different life. mum and my brother, looking for beautiful pictures. I suddenly We ended up in a beautiful small a new life somewhere, hoping to realised I was breathing; I was state in Australia, the paradise have the peace and happiness feeling, and I was alive; I was not of the earth, and the healer and again. dead, only the luxury and fancy healthiest place ever, ‘Tasmania’, things in my life were dead. We left Syria moving to Turkey, where I started school again. I The only friend holding me tightly where life there was like hell, for have met a great friends and great in my tough days was my mum’s four years in Turkey I could not teachers in my new school, St hand. She burned herself to light go to school, I could not have any Mary’s College.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 9 Staff in the spotlight

inspire them and learning alongside Mellina them. Phil You come from a large family of eight siblings. Has this helped you Scavone to understand how young children, Boulter Year 6 Class Teacher in particular, ‘tick’? Six of my eight siblings are younger Utility Officer than me, with the youngest being How long have you been working 15 years younger than me, so it’s You have been employed at St Mary’s College? Have you safe to say I have lots of experience at the College for 18 years. taught elsewhere? with children! I am also a qualified Congratulations! What are This is my fourth year at St Mary’s childcare worker and have worked some of the major changes and College. I started out teaching at as a Learning Support Assistant, developments you have witnessed , then moved to so my whole life has really been during your time here? to teach at Linden Hall Elementary centered around working with A lot has changed over the years! School, an English immersion school children. All of this has really Probably the most notable changes in the Fukuoka Prefecture. When I helped me to understand that each would be the addition of new came back from Japan, I taught at child is an individual and there is classrooms and buildings such as no one-size-fits-all approach to St Therese’s Catholic School for a the Mary Morgan Wing, the Nagle working with children. The only term, then moved to St Mary’s and Centre and College Green, the have been here ever since! way to successfully understand kids Women in Science Centre and the is to get to know each one as an Why did you want to become a Reflection Garden [designed and individual person. teacher and what do you most built by Phil] – which was originally enjoy about teaching? What do you like to do outside of a car park. More recently, we I have always loved learning and work? relocated the historic fountain on used to love playing ‘schools’ with Outside of work, I love to travel and the Convent lawn to make way for my brothers and sisters as a child. I I love electronic music. In my free the Nano Nagle sculpture in 2018. wanted to become a teacher so that time I like to DJ and have played I could make a difference in young at many places around Japan and What does a regular day ‘on the people’s lives. My students are my Hobart. I am currently learning to job’ look like for you? favourite part of being a teacher. I produce my own electronic music My job is all-encompassing. love getting to know each individual, and am hoping to release a track by Depending on what I have on the helping find topics and subjects that the end of this year. go (and what the weather has in

10 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 mind), I’ll get stuck into project undertaking the master’s degree set-ups, building or renovation that I began placements as a work where I might be carrying out Jane psychologist. I gained experience repairs, working with contractors or practising in community settings, helping the team [John, Michael and private practice and at the Sutcliffe Department of Police, Fire and Leon] with landscaping or lugging Emergency Services. I was lucky around heavy equipment and Senior School enough to find the advertisement materials. On other days, you’ll find Counsellor for the position at St Mary’s College me mowing the lawns and picking soon after I graduated from my up rubbish around the grounds. You’re new to St Mary’s College degree. No two days are the same in the this year, so welcome! Maintenance team! Thank you! It has been great slowly You joined the College in 2020 getting to meet the staff and in what has proven to be a very What projects have you worked on students of St Mary’s College. The challenging and unforeseen that you are the most proud of? school has been very welcoming, time. How have the current circumstances changed the way Looking back, I’d have to say the and I began to feel the wonderful you support students, parents and work I did to help transform the sense of community here very families? Convent lawn was a highlight. This quickly. Unexpected and challenging times was a huge task. I was responsible Why did you decide to become a indeed! I had only just started to for the planning, design and school counsellor and what path of find my feet at the school when it all layout of the project, including study did you take? started to change. I have watched the installation of the Nano Nagle I decided that I wanted to become as teachers, students and parents sculpture, building the surrounding a psychologist in college, after have transitioned through this water feature and garden paths, completing the psychology unit in period, and I have been amazed by and replanting garden beds. With all Year 11. I found this introduction to the resilience and commitment to the renovations and updates, we’ve the field of psychology fascinating, learning that I have observed. managed to retain the character of the and I anticipated that it would I have been working a lot more original space, which I am proud of. be a challenging and rewarding closely with parents and teachers career pathway. I studied at to support students in adjusting to Do you have any exciting projects UTAS, completing a Bachelor of learning from home, and this has currently underway? Psychological Science (Honours) been a very enjoyable process. At the moment, we’re working on and a Master of Psychology degree. building circular wooden bench These degrees took six years to By promoting self-care and seats around the trees at the front complete, and it was, as I expected, encouraging families to focus on of the College. We’ve designed very challenging. I worked in various the positives (such as strengthening these ourselves, so that’s pretty casual positions to support myself relationships and getting in touch exciting. while studying, and it wasn’t until with personal values), I hope that I have in some way contributed to helping people make this an experience they will carry in an empowering way.

Outside of work, how do you like to spend your free time? My biggest outlet has always been team sports — the ones I play regularly are touch football, basketball and netball. I have a huge family and we are very close, so I spend a lot of time cooking for family dinners and looking after my nieces and nephews. We love adventuring to the family shack where we cook on the fire and spend hours at the beach. I also have a big hairy dog with lots of energy, so we spend time each day going on walks and exploring the Eastern Shore!

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 11 BELLING-IN TRADITION

On Wednesday 12 February St Mary’s College undertook our traditional 'Belling-in', where continuing students and staff welcome all the new students to Community our community. Dating back to July 2015, this ritual is the prequel & OUTREACH to the Belling-out, where the College farewells its graduates at the end of the school year. Newly commencing students and all Year 12 students received a warm reception, with many cheers, rounds of applause and high-fives exchanged as they made their way through a guard of honour, while the Convent bell tolled in the background.

WELCOME NEW FAMILIES

New families of the College were warmly welcomed to the St Mary’s community at a special event held in February to mark the start of the 2020 school year. The evening was a wonderful opportunity for our new students and their parents to meet and connect with returning students, families and teachers while enjoying a drink, a bite to eat and live musical entertainment by our talented Senior band. Members of the College’s Parents and Friends’ Association were also on hand to ensure the event ran smoothly, with help from our student volunteers.

SCOOTER DAY FUN

On Friday 28 February, Prep to Year 6 students were encouraged to bring their scooters and helmets to school for a day of healthy fun with their friends. To participate, students were asked to bring a gold coin donation, with $134 raised on the day to help support the St Vincent de Paul Bushfire Appeal.

ST FRANCIS FLEXIBLE LEARNING CENTRE FORMAL DONATIONS

In December 2019 the College community united to help collect donations of formal attire for the St Francis Flexible Learning Centre ahead of its end-of- year formal. Thanks to the generosity of our staff and families, we were able to pass on a selection of special occasion dresses, shoes and suits to help young people unable to afford an outfit for the night. St Francis’ Flexible Learning Centre, located in Chigwell, offers support to students aged 12-25 years who have disengaged from mainstream education.

12 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 RECYCLING BREAD TAGS Junior School students capped off 2019 busily collecting plastic bread tags for the ‘Bread Tags for Wheelchairs’ initiative. The community program sees individuals and organisations collect bread tags which are then sold to plastics recycling companies (Australia’s company of choice is Transmutation, located in ). As part of our commitment to recycling and sustainability, students and staff at St Mary’s are always researching ways in which we can reduce our ecological footprint and help make a sustainable future possible – at both school and community levels.

KINDNESS AT CHRISTMAS

The Junior School was honoured to be invited to prepare Christmas decorations for the 2019 Henry Jones Art Hotel Christmas Tree. As part of its Christmas program, Henry Jones gifted St Mary’s College with $1,000 to donate to the charities of our choice. Students selected the Catholic Care Family Assistance Christmas hampers initiative and the Sacred Heart Catholic School Geeveston fundraiser for bushfire- affected families in and .

LAPTOPS FOR THE

Twenty-five laptops of the College’s former students have been given a new lease on life – in the Philippines. The new technology, which will replace outdated computers at the Local Government Unit of Pasacao (in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines), will be used in managing ambulance and health centres, aged and disability care, receipting tax collection and licenses, among other functions. Importantly, it will allow the local government to utilise its existing IT resources to better support the community’s most vulnerable members. The donation was provided in March this year through the Australian Government’s Australian Volunteers International program, in which Greg Curtis (husband of St Mary’s College teacher Shelley Macleod) is involved. The program enables professional and skilled Australians to mentor partner organisations in East Asia and the Pacific.

This page (top-bottom): Students collected bread tags for recycling to fund wheelchairs; Scooter Day in the Junior School; College Principal, Helen Spencer and Director of Junior School, Brigid Knight at the Henry Jones Art Hotel. Opposite page (top-bottom): Belling-in; Families Welcome Event.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 13 Term 1 IN PHOTOS Opposite page (top-bottom, left-right): Ash Wednesday Liturgy, Belling-In, Families Welcome Event, International Women's Day Breakfast, Scooter Day, Year 7 Camp. This page (top-bottom, left-right): Big Splash, Year 10 Welcome to Senior Studies Dinner, learning in Kinder, Junior School Swimming Carnival, Kinder play, pancakes for Shrove Tuesday, Year 9 Camp, Year 10 Outdoor Education camp, Year 9 Camp, Junior School Swimming Carnival. Congratulations to our Year 12 students of 2019 and their teachers on the excellent Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) results secured in last year’s Farewell examinations. Of the 55 students who gained an ATAR score at St CLASS OF 2019 Mary's, 12.6 per cent scored above 95, placing them in the top five per cent nationally.

We congratulate all students on their achievements and in particular Eloise Clark (Dux of 2019), Chloe Cooper, Eloise Deconinck and Saakshi Dhakal, who were placed in the top 100 students in the state.

We also wish to acknowledge the many students who completed Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses. Nancy Bidiongo performed especially well, receiving the award for outstanding achievement in VET in 2019. Nancy completed her Certificate III in Individual Support with The District Nurses and is currently studying a Diploma of Nursing at TasTAFE, with plans to study a Bachelor of Nursing in 2021.

The class of 2019 graduates have gone on to a number of pathways this year with many pursuing a degree locally at the University of Tasmania. Congratulations to Lucy Ryan, who recently received a Global Leaders Scholarship from the University of Tasmania, where she is currently completing her Bachelor of Media.

This page (top-bottom): Year 12 Leavers’ Dinner; Belling-out; the 2019 ‘Originals’, Graduation Mass.

16 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 150 Faces of TWO FOR ONE St Mary's College SPECIAL DEAL

Don’t miss your chance to purchase one of the few Hughes-Warrington; former Australian Senator, remaining copies of the 150 Faces of St Mary’s College Christine Milne; first-class cricketer, Michael Di book. Venuto; Australian children’s television personality, Patsy Biscoe; high-profile Tasmanian businessman, For a limited time in 2020, we are offering our Michael Kent; and former State Cinema owner, John community the exciting opportunity to order two books Kelly. for the price of one, for just $45! Be quick to take advantage of this special offer! Researched and written by Margaret Rootes, this Download an order form from the College website, beautiful coffee table book is a keepsake for current send us an email, or give us a call. families, or a thoughtful gift for any St Mary's alumni who still holds the College close to their heart. You’re Website: www.smc.tas.edu.au/past-scholars- bound to see some faces you recognise as you flick association through more than 288 pages of anecdotes, memories Phone: (03) 6108 2560 and photographs. Email: [email protected] Among the '150 Faces' profiled are former Australian Both cash and credit cards are accepted and, for an National University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Marnie additional $15, we can send your copies in the post.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 17 Reunions GALORE

CLASS OF 1968 CLASS OF 1979 CLASS OF 1989 (51 YEARS) (40 YEARS) (30 YEARS)

A fantastic time was had by all at The evening of Saturday 3 On Saturday 16 November 2019, a the class of 1968 reunion on the August 2019 saw the class of group of 40 St Mary’s College and evening of Saturday 3 August 2019 1979 come together with fellow St Virgil’s College alumni from the at the Royal Yacht Club, Sandy Bay. St Virgil’s College graduates class of 1989 shared a night of fun for an unforgettable reunion at at the Maypole Hotel in New Town. Those in attendance had an the Derwent Sailing Squadron, It was a great night and everyone amazing time laughing over shared Marieville Esplanade, Sandy Bay. enjoyed spending time with old experiences of their school days The room was festively decorated school friends and catching up on and hearing each other’s latest with both St Mary’s College and stories from each others’ lives over experiences since they had last seen St Virgil’s College colours, bringing the past 30 years. each other. The group also took part both school groups together once in a tour of the College, reminiscing again. There were a few of the 'originals' over the spaces and what was still present (pictured above), who went the same after all these years. Among the attendees were several right through school together. of the 'originals' who have known Some even came from interstate each other since they were five especially for the occasion, and and six years old (pictured above). everyone had a fantastic night. Forty-three members of the class of 1979 enjoyed a casual meal and drinks together, sharing memories This page (clockwise from left- and raising glasses to those peers no longer here, in particular Julie right): The class of 1979 reunion Randell, as well as nine former at the Derwent Sailing Squadron, students from St Virgil’s College. Sandy Bay; the class of 1989 enjoying laughs at the Maypole The event went far too quickly, and Hotel, New Town; alumni from the group moved to the Casino for a the class of 1968 enjoyed a quiet drink to finish the evening. College tour before reminiscing at the Royal Yacht Club, Sandy Bay.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 18 CLASS OF 1999 NSW/ACT REUNIONS (20 YEARS) REGIONAL REUNION

On Saturday 23 November alumni On Sunday 13 October 2019 the from the class of 1999 celebrated NSW/ACT alumni group enjoyed their 20-year reunion. They started a wonderful Spring Garden Party the day by travelling to MONA on with afternoon tea, cheese platters the ferry in the Posh Pit, where and bubbles at Grosvenor Park in they enjoyed glasses of bubbles Carwoola, New South Wales. and canapés while catching up. Alumni travelled from near and At MONA the group explored the far for a memorable afternoon of museum before moving upstairs laughter, reminiscing and sharing for a wine tasting. On their return, fond stories after not having seen they walked to SMC where they each other for quite some time. went on a guided tour of the It was a fantastic opportunity to College with Brigid Knight. How spend time together in person and the school has changed! They loved hear where everyone’s lives had reminiscing and discussing what taken them. Everyone seemed to used to be where on their travels. pick up where they left off all those Many were surprised that the Year years ago and it was like no time had 11-12 Common Room was now the passed in these friendships. Upcoming Chapel, were very impressed with the Nagle Centre and recalled days The sunshine and warm weather reunions of trying to squeeze into St Peter’s made it a perfect day to relax Hall. outside. The group even took to the green for a croquet match with a bit CLASS OF 1970-1971 Dinner took place at Rude Boy of friendly competition and many (50-51 YEARS) on Elizabeth Street where they entertaining shots, making it an dined on delicious food and had a activity to remember. Date cocktail or two. Many laughs and Saturday 6 March 2021 good times were had. This page (clockwise from top Where/when They were so grateful for Julie, right): NSW/ACT reunion; Frogmore Winery, Richmond, Julia, Shayle and Bianca who flew NSW/ACT reunion enjoy croquet commencing at 12.00pm. in from interstate especially for the on the lawns at Grosvenor Park; Contact event! The group decided that they the class of 1999 about to board Moira Nicholls for more information wouldn’t wait another 20 years the ferry to MONA. on 0417 354 937. between catch ups.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 19 Anecdotes FROM THE ARCHIVES

Late last year I had the great in the stables at the back, and each evocative photos from Sheelah’s pleasure of meeting Sheelah Boon, day after school, she rode to and youth at the cottage. the former Sheelah Cook, who grew from the Domain to give her pony Margaret Rootes up in Cook’s Cottage, now known as a workout. Sheelah had a brother, College Archivist and Fermoy Cottage, and who was also Peter and a sister, Margaret, both Alumni Association President a student at St Mary’s College. of whom also attended St Mary’s What an incredible piece of luck College. to find another such link with the In the 1950 Alma Mater, there is history of the College! Andrew a photo featuring the wedding of Boon, son of Sheelah, very kindly Margaret Cook to Philip McShane, arranged to bring his mother to the with Sheelah as one of her cottage for a walk down memory attendants. lane. Sheelah is in her 90s now and was clearly thrilled and touched to Sheelah left school, she thinks, revisit her old home and share what towards the end of First Year (Year memories she could. 7), to work for her father in the coach business. She married in Sheelah was born in 1925 and 1949 and she and her husband commenced at St Mary’s in about 1931-1932. She still recalls Sisters went on to have four children, Acquin and Ursula with great only three of whom survived. Their affection, as well as many of the daughter Mary attended St Mary’s other Sisters teaching there at the College in the late 1960s. time. She also recalls the well- Sheelah was delighted to see her known College personality, Columba old home again, and to re-imagine Warren, as a friend of her mother, and explain how it had once been. Florence. Her son Andrew later explored When she was a child at the Sheelah’s photo albums and gave cottage, Sheelah kept her own horse me some superbly nostalgic and

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 20 7.8.1930 – 15.3.2020 Christine Wood (nee Richardson)

Born in Hobart, Christine Wood proved remarkable in the significant attended St Mary’s College from contribution it made to the wider 1937-1948, where she was Head Christine taught community. Prefect in both 1947 and 1948. in London before Over the years, Christine remained After matriculating, Christine a staunch supporter of St Mary’s completed a Bachelor of Arts degree returning to Australia College and of the Cathedral parish. with Honours in 1951. For many years she served as a reader and establishing the and a greeter at the 6.00pm Sunday She married Rodney Wood in 1953 Mass, as well as becoming a part of and embarked on a committed the Parish Council. and happy marriage in which she mothered six children and worked to Library. Christine dedicated her final years strongly support her husband’s career to her interest in psychological and as Barrister, Magistrate and Federal amazing achievement, but perhaps social philosophies, which she found Judge. not surprising in a woman of such invaluable to her ability to create and maintain rich relationships with her Christine taught at Brixton Day intellect, commitment and passion. children, 10 grandchildren and six College in London for about a year During her Masters, Christine began great-grandchildren in this rapidly before returning to Australia in 1957 practising at the University Clinic, changing world. and taking up a role as librarian – and also trained in Eye Movement first establishing the Cosgrove High Desensitisation and Reprogramming, School Library and later becoming a technique which she both used This page (left-right): St Mary's Supervising Librarian at Hobart High in her practice and taught to others College House Captains and School, and then transferring to the as an accredited trainer. She also Champions 1947, featuring (back, University of Tasmania Library. taught Parent Effectiveness Training left-right) Christine Richardson, classes, both through Centacare and Pamela Walsh, Mary Rooney, (front, In 1981, Christine returned to left-right) Zoe New, Betty Mulchany, independent schools, bringing benefit study at the University of Tasmania, Aileen Manton and Roberta Tuckett. this time in Psychology, studies to parents of wide socio-economic backgrounds. Opposite page (top-bottom): Sheelah which she pursued all the way from Boon (nee Cook), whose family lived undergraduate to PhD. Her doctorate Her doctorate, conferred in 2003, in Fermoy Cottage (formerly Cook’s was conferred in the same week continued to explore parenting and Cottage), pictured above, during her as her 75th birthday which was an emotional competence needs, and childhood years.

ST 21MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2019 ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY21 2020 Staying in touch with OUR ALUMNI

new school’ was relatively smooth and I did make some lovely friends and felt welcomed.

I was a studious girl and enjoyed school and learning, so I found the expanded horizons of a city school with so many more students invigorating. With the benefit of hindsight, I recognise that as I held my own academically and made Dux in 1974, the teaching I had at Cygnet put me in good stead for the transition, as of course did the unwavering support and sacrifice of my family.

What was your journey since graduating from St Mary’s College? Following graduation, I had a very brief foray into the Commonwealth Public Service just around the time of the Tasman Bridge collapse, but I quickly realised that I wanted to take up university study options and ended up spending the first two years of university life living in a university college [Ena Waite College, Hobart].

ANNE FOALE (nee Thomas) challenges facing them for 2020 I loved my years at university and CLASS OF 1974 – little did we know then just how completed a Bachelor of Arts at the challenging the year would be! University of Tasmania, followed by a A passionate educator, Anne Foale Graduate Diploma in Librarianship at You attended the College for two has worked in Tasmanian schools the Tasmanian College of Education in years, from 1973 to 1974, after and colleges for more than 40 years. Hobart. I taught for a few years as a completing your primary and A former teacher, librarian and teacher librarian in the Department of middle secondary schooling in your Religious Education Coordinator, Education. hometown of Cygnet (St James Anne was appointed Principal of St Convent School). What are your After the birth of my second child I James Catholic College in 2007, a strongest memories of your time at took three years leave — during this position she held for 10 years. Anne St Mary’s? time I set up a family-based childcare is an active member of the Australian It was rather intimidating making the in my home under the auspice of Council of Educational Leaders and entrée into a cohort of girls who had the Kingborough Council, providing remains closely integrated with her well-established friendship groups the first such option for the lower hometown of Cygnet through her and whose connections to SMC were Channel area. I returned from leave role as president of the Cygnet Folk already very strong, unlike mine. I and went back to full time work but Festival. She returned to her former did, however, have the advantage of this time with Catholic Education. SMC stomping ground in January, having a brother who had preceded I moved into secondary teaching where she presented to the College me to St Virgil’s College the previous at St James College and then held Leadership Team on ‘strengths year and made some connections the position of Religious Education based leadership’, inspiring staff to which I was able to share, and they Coordinator for Sacred Heart College, be energised and authentic about helped me find a place within the New Town for 11 years, moved onto the leadership opportunities and cohort. So overall, the ‘settling into a Deputy Principal at MacKillop College

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 22 Staying in touch with OUR ALUMNI

and then 10 years as Principal at and at all levels from preschool St James Catholic College. During to university and beyond have this time of establishing my career I found the enriched the way I think, interact with in education, I studied to complete colleagues and indeed lead. a Graduate Diploma of Teaching expanded horizons Being able to work with and learn [Religious Education] and a Master of of a city school from some of the best educators in Educational Leadership, both through the country on the national board, Australian Catholic University. with so many and being able to have direct contact I also managed the challenge of an more students with some of the many internationally 11-year battle with cancer – Hodgkin respected presenters and ACEL Lymphoma. I am eternally grateful for invigorating. collaborators, has been such a life- the support from my wonderful family giving part of my career. through this battle, as well as the What advice would you give current support I received from my St James as National Director and seven as students wanting to pursue a similar College family and the Sacred Heart the Tasmanian Branch President. The profession? community. breadth and depth of the organisation and its many opportunities for My advice for all students, no matter You have also been instrumental professional growth, networking and what profession they aspire to, would on the Australian Council of experiences have been critical in my be to follow what life is giving for you Educational Leaders (ACEL) as past overall formation as an educator. and commit with all your heart to a National Director and the Tasmanian dream, if you have one. But if that President. Can you tell us more about I highly valued, and still do, its wide does not ring true for you, then just your experience in these roles? perspective on education and its keep an eagle eye for the doors that I have been actively involved with precision and focus on leadership seem to be opening for you which ACEL for about 20 years – many of in particular. The opportunities to may not be your current passion but those years spent as a member of engage thoughtfully and critically with which may take you to a place you the local branch executive, six years colleagues from all education sectors couldn’t have dreamt of yourself.

SEEING DOUBLE — TWO GENERATIONS OF SMC GIRLS

History is repeating itself for the second time in more than 30 years for two St Mary’s College families.

This year, the Lovell and Shea families both enrolled their second-generation daughters at the College.

We look forward to seeing the girls follow in the footsteps of their mothers and continue their family’s long and proud legacy Above: Alumni Alison Lovell (nee Harvey), left, and Brigid Shea (nee Noonan) pictured at SMC! starting Prep circa 1986; their daughters Madeleine Lovell, left, and Beatrice Shea on their first day of Prep and Kindergarten respectively.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 23 Staying in touch with OUR ALUMNI

IMOGEN BARRY-MURPHY I elected to study this. I planned LUCY COOPER CLASS OF 2018 ahead and looked at related classes, CLASS OF 2012 also completing Graphic Design in What started with a simple enquiry Year 9-12 and Housing and Design Lucy Cooper’s workday is a little at a University of Tasmania careers in Year 12. different to that of most people. evening for Year 12 students What do you hope to achieve in From the crack of dawn, you’ll find in 2018 has developed into an her on a farm somewhere in rural the future? interstate university scholarship for Tasmania. This is where the first Once I graduate, I hope to receive Imogen Barry-Murphy. Representing female wool buyer in the state with an internship to work within one of Tasmania well, Imogen received a traineeship with Roberts Rural the Australian industries. I would a Bond University Excellence Co is making leaps and bounds in like to focus on small housing design Scholarship and is studying a Tasmania’s wool selling landscape. and simple, affordable housing two-year accelerated Bachelor of based on the climates. Tell us about your current work Architecture Studies. Now halfway endeavours and what they entail? through her degree, Imogen is How did St Mary’s College help you I am a trainee Sheep and Wool making her mark on the future of and your learning endeavours? Advisor with Roberts Rural Co. I architecture by achieving top of the Ken Lachlan was a fantastic teacher work with owners state-wide to class for Design Communications, in Year 12 who opened my eyes discuss and outline the benefits of earning her an invitation to the to studying architecture. He spoke their wool and navigate the best Executive Dean’s Awards. about the different elements and price for the wool export sales. provided a greater understanding What are you currently studying I’m also supporting the livestock of how the university course would and at which university? assessments and wellbeing while work, which equipped me well for I received a Bond University analysing how their environment my university journey.Tameika Grist Excellence Scholarship and am and living impacts the wool and am and Wendy Forsyth encouraged studying a Bachelor of Architectural lucky to be shadowing existing wool me to apply for the scholarship and Studies, a two-year accelerated and sheep advisors. I’m passionate helped with the application, offering degree. It all happened very fast. about getting more young people I received my scholarship offer at wonderful support. and women involved in the Christmas time in 2018 and had to What did you most like about St agriculture sector. make a quick decision on whether Mary’s College? I’d attend or not. I officially locked What does a typical day look like I liked that it felt like a small, it in on 1 January 2019 and had to for you? comfortable environment, where I prepare to move interstate quickly. In a day I could be privately buying was able to build my confidence. wool, onsite at a sheering shed, Why did you choose this pathway? The learning path I had helped me pricing and processing wool as At the start of Year 7 I heard about discover what I was passionate bulk class, and even buying rams the Housing and Design class and about. Without those teachers and on behalf of other clients. We also was intrigued. I was in Year 10 when classes I wouldn’t have found it.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 24 Staying in touch with OUR ALUMNI make assessments, set up lines, map out what’s best for the market and help with classing stock to get a good line of livestock. How did you get started with your work? I started working in shearing sheds as a wool handler while on summer holidays. It worked out well in terms of travel and it was a good fit for me. I did that work over four years and during that time I completed a Certificate IV in Wool Classing and Certificate III in Business. Do you recall any memorable advice you received from a teacher during your time here that has ZOE LOVELL observed the experiences of women stayed with you? CLASS OF 2013 in everyday life. In 2018, I was an Halina Kremzer taught me in artist in residence at the University history and always found the way A multidisciplinary artist and graphic of Tasmania, where I spent my time I explained things quite funny and designer based in Hobart, Zoe assisting the Head of Studio in the unique. She told me she didn’t mind Lovell studies the human form and third-year Visual Communications how I did it and to just be myself. how, through movement and body class. In early 2019, I undertook my second residency at the Cradle What did you most like about St language, it is used as a tool to Mary’s College? communicate. Zoe’s primary interest Mountain Wilderness Gallery, Diversity — there were so many lies in portraiture, with her design focusing on the change in my different options, always something practice providing services including environment during the week- on offer and lots of opportunities. identity and publication design. long stay. Since graduating from From music to sports or science, university, I’ve focused more on fine Tell us about your first solo all the teaching staff were very arts practice. exhibition. encouraging. In October 2019 I presented my Why did you choose this pathway? What is your advice for a current first solo exhibition, Conversations I was always drawn to and Year 12 student? with the Human Form, at the Top interested in art. It was my key focus Don’t put too much pressure on Gallery in the Salamanca Arts and the way my brain works. I was yourself. Doing your best is all Centre, while also working on a also inspired by my parents, who are anybody can ask of you. You’ve got number of freelance design projects artists – my Mum is a sculptor and your whole life ahead of you and for local and interstate clients in both my parents carve pieces for there are so many opportunities to drawings, paintings and ceramics. their artwork. do what you want to do. It was an exciting experience, What do you hope to achieve having an exhibition of my own. My professionally in the future? This page (left-right): Emerging My aim for the future is to work on Tasmanian artist Zoe Lovell; favourite piece from the exhibition, A Conversation ‘sequence’ is a large oil painting and build up a portfolio. Zoe’s latest series of work, titled I want to work towards getting ‘Conversations with the Human drawing featuring a sequence of hand gestures floating in space. an artist’s residence overseas, in Form’. Opposite page (left- Europe. right): Imogen Barry-Murphy, What did you study at university? who is completing a Bachelor of Following a Bachelor of Visual What is your advice for a current Architectural Studies at Bond Communication in 2016 from the Year 12 student? University, and Lucy Cooper, who University of Tasmania, I completed You should definitely pursue art! is making waves in Tasmania’s a Bachelor of Fine Arts with First The art community in Tasmania is wool industry as the state’s first Class Honours in 2017. As part of really growing and encouraging new female wool buyer. this, I created five publications that artists.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 25 Staying in touch with OUR ALUMNI

MARJORIE FITZPATRICK in Prep in 1987. Lucille, who was a After travelling for a while, 1920s few years ahead of Rachael, finished Rachael took a position as an Year 12 in 1996 and went on to Environmental Consultant with a Alumni may recall that Marjorie complete a Fine Arts degree at private consultancy, carrying out Fitzpatrick has the honour of being RMIT in Melbourne. environmental impact assessments. Several years later, she applied our much-respected oldest past Gerry Nolan, Rachael’s father, is scholar of the College. She attended well-remembered at the College for a scholarship to complete a St Mary’s College in the 1920s and as a strong supporter in all ways, PhD at Melbourne University. Her her story is recounted in 150 Faces particularly as a member of the successful application led to a four- of St Mary's College. Parents and Friends’ Association. year funded study and a very timely thesis on forests and bushfires, Archbishop Emeritus Adrian Doyle Although Rachael still has memories with a focus on the impact of the is a regular visitor to Marjorie, of some seemingly hard disciplinary through a family connection, and Victorian Black Saturday 2009 fires ideals, she is quick to acknowledge on Melbourne’s water catchments. he reports that she celebrated her that the education she enjoyed in 105th birthday last November. both primary and secondary school She remained in academia and Marjorie continues to enjoy life set her up for life from a learning decided to continue applied in her sunny Launceston home, and academic point of view. research. Her scholarly articles are widely published, and she is highly although she misses her outings and At the end of Year 10, Rachael’s sought after for her opinions and activities with friends in the current father’s work took the family to comments, especially in the wake circumstances. Sale in , where Rachael was of Australia’s catastrophic summer enrolled at Catholic College. Sadly, Marjorie is a living link to at least bushfires of 2020. one of the original Sisters who came Gerry became seriously ill and the to Hobart from Fermoy, Ireland in family lost their cherished father For several years now, Rachael has 1866 to establish the College. soon after. worked from the Western Sydney University, through funding from With an ongoing interest in the the NSW Department of Planning, RACHAEL NOLAN Sciences, and particularly the Industry and Environment. CLASS OF 1997 environment, Rachael enrolled in the Environmental Science program St Mary’s College has every reason Rachael Nolan was born in Hobart, at Melbourne’s Monash University. to be immensely proud of this the youngest of three siblings. Her After four years of study, she ground-breaking young scientist, an elder brother Andrew and sister, completed her degree with Honours inspiration to all of our own budding Lucille, attended St Mary’s College with a double major in Geography scientists. before Rachael, who commenced and Biology.

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 26 Alumni Achievements from near and far

MORE ALUMNI in Semester 1 at the University of where she will be operating once ACHIEVEMENTS Minnesota for maintaining a GPA of borders reopen. above 3.66 (out of 4.0). Karen Kluss (class of 2000), of Lola Phillips OAM (class of 1945) Bijou Creative (Karen's independent earnt a Queen's Birthday honour Miranda Ling (class of 2016) musical theatre company), directed for her service to women and the completed her Bachelor of Medical community of Sorell, receiving the Research at the University of the musical production, My Fair Medal of the Order of Australia. Tasmania, graduating in 2019. Lady, which ran at the Theatre Royal Hobart in October 2019. Shaunsi Gifford (class of 2016), Ellen Batge (class of 2016) Danielle Abery (class of 2014) and completed her Bachelor of Nursing Combining her love of clinical Alison Blackwell (class of 1998) in 2019 and is now working in practice and academic nursing, graduated at the Tasmanian Police theatre as a scrub nurse at Calvary Christine Stirling (class of 1977) Academy on 13 March 2020. Lenah Valley Hospital. took on the role of Professor Shaunsi was awarded the University of Nursing and Associate Head of Tasmania Problem-Orientated Imogen Barry-Murphy (class of of the School of Nursing at the Policing Merit Certificate and Alison 2018) received a Bond University University of Tasmania in 2018. was awarded the A.R. Henley Police Excellence Scholarship and is A former Deputy Head Prefect of Association of Tasmania Award for studying a two-year accelerated the College, Christine attended St Personal Achievement. The trio Bachelor of Architecture Studies. Mary’s from Year 3-12. completed 31 weeks of gruelling Adding to her success, she training. recently achieved top of the class This page (left-right): Danielle The following alumni, of the class of for Design Communications in Abery (class of 2014), Shaunsi 2019, were recently acknowledged Semester 2, earning her an invitation Gifford (class of 2016) and Alison at the Guilford Young College to the Executive Dean’s Awards. Blackwell (class of 1998) after Commendation Ceremony: graduating at the Tasmanian Keeley Hine-Haycock (Dux of the Since leaving St Mary's, Jessica Police Academy; Karen Kluss College; Chemistry, Economics and Hazelwood (class of 1997) has (class of 2000) of Bijou Creative. Sports Science) amassed four degrees, the most Opposite page (left-right): SMC’s Sally Saad (English as a Second recent, a PhD in Law from Kings oldest alumna, Marjorie Fitzpatrick, Language/Dialect), and Grace College, London. Her work has seen who celebrated her 105th birthday Gardner and Nikayla MacDonald her travel the globe, visiting places in November last year; Dr Rachael (Outstanding Contribution to as diverse as Afghanistan, South Nolan, a research scientist and Community). Sudan and Bangladesh. She has lecturer in fire ecology and biogeosciences. Meg Messer (class of 2017) recently taken up a position with successfully made the Dean’s List the United Nations in Myanmar,

ST MARY’S COLLEGE ALMA MATER JULY 2020 27 St Mary’s College birth to five program Get Setup for Success with the St Mary’s College birth to five program! We offer an encouraging and nurturing environment for parents and carers to actively participate with their children in learning opportunities. A variety of play-based educational activities will engage your child’s learning and curiosity in all areas of development. All families are warmly welcome to attend.

LAUNCHING SOON! Every Monday, 9.00am-10.30am* 164 Harrington Street, Hobart www.smc.tas.edu.au/setup-for-success

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