EX-STUDENTS’ UNION NEWS

THE ANNUAL NEWSLETTER OF THE SEPTEMBER 2016 PRESBYTERIAN LADIES’ COLLEGE, NUMBER 85 EX-STUDENTS’ UNION

MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRESIDENT to reflect on our times as a student. The Adelaide Perry Gallery will be open to enable you to view the exhibition. I encourage you to invite your alumni friends and families, and join us to support the performers on the day. Further details will be on the College website by November. www.plc.nsw.edu.au/community/alumni

The great excitement in Croydon is what we are currently building. Last year we demolished the old Hamilton building and a new Year 3-6 and Gateway building is emerging from the ground. We are hoping on Jersey Day to be able to view the site - one of the first groups to see the almost As I begin to write this report for our magazine, I am sitting completed building. in a hotel room looking out over a very wet and humid Shanghai. No, this is not my holiday journal, but rather a At the 2016 Jersey Day, the ESU presented a cheque for work trip. You may ask why Shanghai? Well, my role within $15,000 to purchase the Coronelli Globes that will hang the College is Director of Enrolments and part of that role in the foyer of the new Reception area. This is an exciting is to assist students from overseas to enrol at PLC Sydney. purchase as this gift will serve as a reminder of the ESU’s These students add a richness and diversity to our College. presence and work for the College. I travel to varying parts of Asia each year with other Australian schools to ‘spread the word’ on an Australian Yet again, I thank the committee members who have been education. I am also fortunate enough to visit areas in rural inspirational in the time and effort they have given to support NSW to encourage enrolments for the Boarding House. the ESU. During the year Jessica Wickenden resigned from This year I have been to Dubbo and Wagga Wagga. the committee due to work pressures. She was a great loss as she worked tirelessly and her ideas and input were an But let me get back to Shanghai and to the reason I am on important part of the committee’s planning. We are grateful this trip. As you may well know, the College is encouraging for her time and energy and encourage others to consider links with its Alumni and Ex-Students’ Union. This year joining the committee to assist with the growth and future we are holding a Principal’s Reception in Shanghai, Hong development of the ESU and alumni within the College. Kong and . These events are to support our current families, meet future parents and remain connected with our past families. This is a good reason to keep your contact Catherine Marvell (Davidson 1975) details up to date. Most of our correspondence is moving to online and email. In fact, all alumni in these countries were emailed. I believe the ESU is fortunate to have such strong support from the College in organizing these events. I am fortunate too, as I can cover the role of Enrolments, ESU OFFICE BEARERS President, past PLC Sydney teacher and ex-parent. 2015 – 2016 I must take the opportunity to thank Mrs Susanne Lambert. Susanne has been employed at the College and part of her role is Alumni based. She has worked tirelessly to improve Patron - Mrs Gwendoline Bosler (Stuart - 1949) our database and reconnect with many of you. She is the President – Catherine Marvell (Davidson - 1975) contact person to email any news and updates of contact Vice Presidents – Sara Keli (Thorp - 2001) details. Jessica Wickenden (2005) Secretary – Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish - 1961) So far this year, the College has held the 1996 Alumni Treasurer – Rae Gower (Hoore - 1949) cocktail party, with the 1986 being held in my absence, then NCW Representative - Helen Humphreys (Neal - the 1976 and finish with the 2006. Details of these events 1968)) are always on our website and I encourage you to attend Editor – Ann McDonald (1965) your reunion. They are wonderful opportunities to tour the C/- PLC Sydney Ex-Students’ Union College and catch up with friends. Next year we will be Boundary Street, Croydon NSW 2132 hosting the 2007, 1997, 1987 and 1977 reunions. Email – [email protected]

This year’s Jersey Day was not as well attended as hoped. COMMITTEE Plans are being discussed and considered, but 2017 Jersey Day will be different with more music and families being Marina Clark (Lvoff - 1978) encouraged to enjoy the grounds. There will be an informal Lesley Meldrum (Morgan - 1955) afternoon tea for all. The welcome and service will remain Jo Williams (Cripps - 1975) for those who wish to attend, as they are both important Robyn McBride (Hailey - 1976) 2 REPORT FROM THE PRINCIPAL, DR PAUL BURGIS

TERM DATES 2017

TERM ONE - 1.2.2017 - 7.4.2017

TERM TWO - 26.4.2017 - 23.6.2017

TERM THREE - 18.7.2017 - 22.9.2017

TERM FOUR - 10.10.2017 - 1.12.2017

We now know that the total number of girls who have been students at PLC Sydney from 1888 until 2016 is 13, 663. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

13,663 young women headed off into the world through 8 November 2016: Ex-Students’ Union Annual General the green gates of PLC Sydney. Meeting: 8 December 2016: Speech Day 2016 At the start of this year we commenced our program 11 March 2017: Jersey Day, 2017 seeking to identify each and every student who has 20 March 2017: Card Day 2017 attended the College. Mrs Susanne Lambert has been 4 December 2017: Speech Day doing a splendid job seeking to update all records across the College. Our hope is that we will have a data base that is up to date for every girl across every year.

Of course we have had access to historic data for many SAVE THESE DATES decades. Through this process we hope we will be able to contact ex-students and invite them to functions, and Keep an eye on the College website for possible welcome them to visit their Alma Mater. changes and updated details as the time approaches.

If you are receiving this newsletter and you know of the 2017 whereabouts of an ex-student who has changed address Saturday 11 March - Jersey Day – College Grounds. or name or email details, could you please encourage her This is a new style event with families encouraged to to contact Susanne Lambert on [email protected] or attend and share the beautiful grounds with both new 9704 5744. and old friends. There will be music playing, a relaxed afternoon tea and tours of the College. The most important date in the calendar year for connecting PLC Sydney with its alumni is Jersey Day. We April - Principal’s Reception will be held in Orange want this day to serve our ex-students well. We have (date and venue to be confirmed). been reconsidering how we can best enable our former students to gather and catch up on school-time stories. 27-29 April - PLC Production- High School Musical

It is interesting that in recent trips to south-east Asia that 21 June - House Choir Night we uncovered a sizeable alumni living in Hong Kong. They were very excited to reconnect with PLC Sydney and 2018 - Planning stage only were hopeful of sending their daughters here. Easter holidays - Principal’s International Reception We also have a large group of Alumni living in Europe. in China and Hong Kong Whoever you are and wherever you are living we would like to reconnect. In our Connections newsletter we tell September - Principal’s International Reception in the story of one of our alumni each week. Perhaps you London could share your story with us. I would love to hear from you ([email protected])

3 EX-STUDENTS’ UNION SCHOLARSHIP (Recipient and criteria) This scholarship assists relatives of ex-students commencing their final two years at PLC Sydney. Applicants must be girls entering Year 11 at PLC with an ex-student connection, e.g. daughter, granddaughter. The selection is based on the contribution a girl can make to all areas of school life – an ‘all rounder’ demonstrating diligence, enthusiasm and achievement academically, culturally, in sport and community activities.

The PLC Sydney Ex-Students’ Union Scholarship is currently valued at $10,000 deducted from the school fees over two years. Application forms can be obtained from the Ex-Students’ Union.

EX-STUDENTS’ UNION SCHOLARSHIP

Ex-Students’ Union Scholarship Recipient WINNERS OF PRIZES 2016 - 2017 DONATED BY THE EX-STUDENTS’ My name is Madeleine Maloof UNION AT and I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2016-2017 Ex- SPEECH DAY 2015 Students’ Union Scholarship. My ties to the school extend longer Eunice Macindoe Prize for Science than 1996; the year my aunt Emma Tanevska (Year 10) Clementine Maloof graduated.

Annie Wallace Memorial Prize for School Music I have attended PLC Sydney for Phoebe McHugh (Year 12) my entire schooling life, beginning

in Kindergarten in 2005. Over AA Uttley-Todd Memorial Prize for Textiles and the years I have engaged in numerous co-curricular activities Design offered by the college and taken part in many events. I have Hannah Green (Year 12) been playing the bagpipes as part of the Pipes and Drums

Band since the beginning of year 6, annually participating Ex-Students’ Union Prize for Work and Games in Anzac Day marches. I have also been a member of the Anais Alonso (Year 12) who was also Dux and received rowing team, debating team, I have performed in school a gold medallion. musicals, choirs and have almost completed the Duke of Edinburgh gold award.

Over my time in the senior school I have taken a keen interest in the sciences. After travelling to China with Dr Burgis for a science research conference, I was inspired to conduct my own experiment. From this I was then invited to a national BHP Billiton science camp which led me to be invited to the International Science and Engineering Fair in Arizona, USA. Furthermore, I have decided to pursue a career in science!

Being a member of the college is such a great opportunity and it is a privilege to represent the school as Pipe Major and Events Captain for 2017. PLC has instilled in me many qualities that I will keep for the rest of my life. Qualities that I will be able to pass onto my daughter who, god willing, will attend the school.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Ex- students’ Union for their support not only through my scholarship but through their encouragement and dedication to the college. 4 OPEN DAY AND FAIR 2016 REGIONAL AND The venue this year was smaller because of the building project. It was a beautiful day which meant the school just INTERSTATE CONTACTS sparkled. Our stall was in the usual place near the school shop facing down Meta Street towards The Strand. It was ADELAIDE Mary Minchin (Brazier still an ideal place for meeting and greeting even though 1961) the Meta Street gates are in storage and there is currently (08) 8362 1408 no direct access to The Croydon because of the Gateway Building Project. BRISBANE Petrina Hawkins (Campbell

1970) We were again [email protected] assigned the Crested

Ware Stall and sold CANBERRA Suzanne Clubb (1957) a limited number (02) 6238 1531 of items from the school shop as well as GOLD COAST Jeni Bone (Payne) merchandise from the 0412 230 002 Ex-Students’ Union. We also had the Ex- Leonie Gillett (Cresswell Students’ magazine 1961) and various flyers and (03) 9848 5058) information pamphlets for distribution. It NEW /NTHN DISTRICT was a sociable day and Helen Loveday (Kinross busy enough to make 1949) the hours pass quickly, (02) 6721 0583 with reasonable takings too, considering we had mostly low cost items for SUNSHINE COAST Jean Edmonds (Horsburgh sale. Many ex-students came to talk this year even though 1967) we, on the stall, were not known to them. These meetings/ 0410 664 977 conversations added to the pleasure, and purpose, of the (07) 5499 9915 day. WESTERN It is always an interesting fair with a range of stalls - food Julia Hewson (Webster cakes, books, plants, baskets etc - as well as rides and a silent 1968) auction. Various performances take place throughout the (08) 92952634 day as the school also show cases its wares while the science department has interesting experiments to attract younger RIVERINA Catherine Cruickshank people and Saturday sport such as water pole continues as (Bassingthwaighte 1986) usual. The Open Day and Fair is always the Saturday before (02) 6927 6353 Mothers’ Day so put it in your diary for next year.

Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish - 1961)

Enjoying Open Day

5 ARCHIBALD 2016

“The Archibald Prize, first awarded in 1921, is Australia’s favourite art award, and one of its most prestigious. Awarded to the best portrait painting, it’s a who’s who of Australian culture – from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists” – quote from the Art Gallery of NSW Web Site.

Members of the Ex-Student’s Union, their families and friends are all welcome to attend the PLC Sydney Archibald Art Before Hours Tour which is an annual event hosted by the Ex-Student’s Union.

This year the tour was held on Thursday 4 August 2016 - it always commences at 9.00am which enables our group to have sole access to the exhibition before it opens to members of the public at 10.00am.

PLC Sydney Ex-Students, their families, friends and members of the current PLC Community arrived at the Art Gallery of NSW at around 8.45am and were whisked into the warm gallery out of the cold crisp morning by enthusiastic gallery staff. We were divided into groups of 10 and assigned an experienced guide.

For the next hour we were granted exclusive access to the Archibald Exhibition. Our guides stopped at paintings displayed in the exhibition and discussed a little about each artist and their subject and why the artist had chosen that subject.

After voting for our favourite portrait in the Archibald Competition, we retired to our reserved area of the café to enjoy a delicious morning tea.

After the morning tea, we were free to return to the Archibald or Sulman & Wynne Exhibitions and continue to enjoy our cultural experience.

This is a treasured and special event on the Ex-Student Calender and one of the few Ex-Student Functions where there is no requirement for attendees to be ex-students. We are delighted that ladies are happy to attend with their husbands, parents or non-PLC associated girlfriends.

Robyn McBride Rae Gower (Hoore), Gwen Bosler (Stuart) and Jo Williams (Cripps) enjoying morning tea.

ESU members and friends enjoying morning tea.

6 CELEBRATING OUR CARD DAY REPORT ALUMNI IN 2016 Despite worrying that we would have insufficient numbers This year the College has held the 1986 and 1996 alumni to run Card Day, we ended up with twelve tables of four, events (at time of printing the 1976 and 2006 events have which was wonderful. yet to occur).

I was only able to attend the 1996 event as College business prevented me from attending the 1986 event. I believe it was a great success. These events always create a sense of belonging and renews pride in our old school. The stories I hear are always of great interest.

Rae Gower, Gwen Bosler, Marion Marriott, Lesley Meldrum, Wendy Ireland, Libby Tugwell, Marina Clark.

As always Pymble Golf Club did us proud with delicious sandwiches and “petits fours”.

1986

These occasions are informal and the relaxed atmosphere enables you to chat about the good old days and reconnect with people you may not have seen for some time. I strongly encourage you to come along when it is your decade event. The more the merrier as they say.

Wendy Hardy (Ireland, 1979), Libby Tugwell (Harley, 1979), Marina Clark (Lvoff, 1978) , Rae Gower (Hoore, 1949)

Thank you to all who attended, supplied morning tea, donated Tombola prizes and helped on the day. Your support is greatly appreciated. A special thank you to Margaret Middleton, for ensuring that we are able to continue to have our annual card day in such pleasant surrounds.

1996

Information and dates will be posted on the College website towards the end of this year for the four 7’s events to be held in 2017. If the College has your current details we will be able to email you an invitation as well. Looking forward very much to seeing you all (and hopefully even a few more!) next year. The proposed date is Monday Catherine Marvell (Davidson 1975) 20th March, so please put it in your diaries

Marina Clark (Lvoff)

7 JERSEY DAY AROUND JERSEY DAY IN BRISBANE AUSTRALIA Our reunion was supposed to be on 19th March but due to JERSEY DAY IN SYDNEY the council elections being called on that day and then the Easter break we changed to Saturday 16th April. This brought The weather was beautiful and the College looked us a lovely sunny day for our luncheon at the Botanical Café, magnificent but not many people came to enjoy Jersey Day Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens. this year. Overall attendance was most disappointing and we will have to re-think Jersey Day if numbers remain so Fifteen girls - Jean Atchison (Mckay), Jenille Ball (Campbell), low. Maybe you could let us know what would entice you to Barbara Capel (Logan), Honor Croaker (Broomfield), meet your friends at the College on a Saturday afternoon Petrina Hawkins (Campbell), Margaret Johnston (Boswell); in early March. Lindrea Lloyd (Shepherd), Jane O’Hare (Provan), Janet Porter (Pigott), Margaret Powell (Catt), Pam Ramsey(Lance), Those who came had a very pleasant afternoon whether Margaret Royle (McGufficke), Kathryn Russell (Peaston), they participated in any of the activities or just sat and Elwyn Stewart and Libby Gemmell (Wannan) were able to talked, first in the garden and then in the Macindoe Centre come this year from as far away as the Gold Coast, Sunshine at afternoon tea. The largest single contingent was the 70 Coast and Toowoomba.Apologies were received from: year reunion group organised by Mrs Nan Atkinson, which Moira Grant (Munro), Rosie Morris, Jan Unsworth (Boswell), was particularly special, but there were also smaller groups Helen Smith (Makepeace), Sally-Anne Lambell (Dummer), from 1976 and 1978 as well. Some younger ex-students Kate Robertson (Wyld), Peggy Channon (Lawrenson), Rosie came with their children too, as plenty of garden for them Howard (Ewen), Sue Warner (Joseph) and Jean Edmonds to play while the adults talk and wander around. (Horsburgh). The PLC Pipe Band performed on the Sundial lawn and if you like the bagpipes as my family does, it is a wonderful sound. Phillipa Knight (Gregory) played the organ for the short service held in College Hall which brings back memories for we older ex-students but not for the younger ones, as assemblies have not been held in College Hall for many many years.

Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish)

Left to right:Honor Croaker (Broomfield), Pam Ramsey (Lance), Elwyn Stewart, Jenille Ball (Campbell), Margaret Royle (McGufficke), Lindrea Lloyd (Shepherd), Janet Porter (Pigott), Jane O’Hare(Provan), Libby Gemmell (Wannan), Kathryn Russell (Peaston), Jean Atchison (Mckay), Margaret Johnston (Boswell), Barbara Capel (Logan), Margaret Powell (Catt) and Petrina Hawkins (Campbell).

Jo Williams (Cripps) and Catherine Marvell News from some of those present:! (Davidson) Jan Porter (1970) – Grandmother, eldest son Simon and Anne had a boy Thomas, Simon sitting anaesthetic exams. Youngest son Robert (lawyer) and his wife Briony expecting 1st child in September. Husband Tim and Jan thinking and planning for retirement and fun!

Barbara Capel (1944 – 1947). Sisters Judy Lance (Logan) (1944 – 1949) and Janet Snodgrass (Logan). Retired to Toowoomba from a sheep station at Longreach. Trained at RPAH 1948 – 1952.

Libby Gemmell (1971) – Great to catch up with the Brisbane girls again in beautiful setting. Eldest son Jock married Christa last September. Looking forward to our Boarders reunion at Coolangatta in June, being organised by Honor, Sally and myself.

8 Honor Croaker (1971) – Such a beautiful day in a nice Lawson (McConnell), Judith Swain (Hodsdon), Marjory Ikin setting. Off to Canada – Alaska in August. Our new caravan (Hutchinson), Margaret Hester (Ainsworth). is wonderful am looking forward to seeing more of our beautiful country. We are hopeful that next year more of our members will be able to again join the group, when we look forward to Kathryn Russell (1960) – Several great expeditions round Lesley Meldrum visiting us once again. North Australia, Broome – Cairns. Six grandchildren lots of fun. Busy as Publicity Officer for QCWA South Eastern Division.

Jean Atchinson (1958) – Very pleased to be at this reunion – first time in 3 years, seeing lovely familiar faces. The past 3 years I’ve spent 6 months per year in Arizona, USA with younger daughter’s family in Scottsdale. During these visits I travel to see old friends in various parts of the US including Washington DC where we used to live. Youngest grandchild turned 8 and oldest granddaughter turned 18, 7 gorgeous grandchildren in all. Son David finally chose a bride and family and friends came from afar to HK for his wedding. I’m so grateful and fortunate to be mobile and enjoy travelling to the 3 countries where my children live. – Have had a wonderful time travelling, Sth Elwyn Stewart Left to right : Kay Ralph, Julia Webster, Alison Bird, Heather Wilson. America 4 ½weeks; and Africa 5 ½weeks.

Pam Ramsey (1950) – A quiet year – no great travels last year. Lovely to catch up today with so many faces! News from Julia Hewson (Webster)

Margaret Powell (1963) – Great to catch up! I’m still January 2015 found Rod and I having a very relaxing 10 days involved with music (church choir, choosing music for in Phuket with friends, time to recharge. Mid year we flew services, play date music for children, plus some playing to Europe for a river cruise with (other) friends. Our trip of piano as accompanist) and now involved with little started with three days in Prague; we cruised from Budapest grandchildren/ the humpty dumpty stage!! to Amsterdam with three days there at the end,. Wonderful experience, wonderful history, so much to see and do Margaret Royle (1968) – Wonderful to catch up each year. each day. Very different from ocean cruising, both offering Our son Charles married Soya Sugawara in Tokyo, Japan – in different experiences. a large Buddhist Temple near the famous Tsukiji fish markets – we enjoyed a week of celebrations and sightseeing in the My stepson turned 40! He had a WOW of a party on Tokyo environs.We live on the road, travelling between Rottnest Island with about 100 people attending for the Walcha, Brisbane, Noosa & Tasmania. Our daughter Georgia celebrations over the whole week-end. works with International Exchange at UNSW. Every now and then I try to hit a golf ball and enjoy tennis with the girls Our grandsons (10, 8, 7 and 6) all love playing AFL Auskick, on Monday morning. Lets keep celebrating life. also mad about fishing, swimming and boating. Both families have boats and both have acreage about an hour away. Their Trina Hawkins (1970 – Spending every second weekend, week-ends are spent on the various waterways or at their Christmas and Easter at our Kings Beach unit where country properties. renovations are on hold at the moment. Planning some travel this year NZ, Canberra and Central Australia. Son still living The West Coast Eagles finished in the Grand Final, a very exciting time for fans. Rod and I went to Melbourne for the game and despite the thrashing we received, it was a JERSEY DAY IN PERTH fantastic experience. The event has been crossed off my “bucket list” - until the next time! March 19………….As many extenuating circumstances caused us to change our venue at least three times this I’ve been fortunate to have travelled to Melbourne with year and the final number of attendees was only four, Rod several times during the year enabling me to catch up it was decided to meet at The Rose and Crown Hotel with friends throughout Victoria and interstate if our trips in Guildford for lunch. Present were: Julia Hewson coincided. (Webster), Kay Ralph (Teasdell), Alison Bird (Turner) and Heather Wilson (Ainsworth). We enjoyed a very intimate lunch with good food and conversation.

Apologies were received from: Pene Wood (Longshaw), Heather Wilson (1965) Diane O’Flaherty, Pat Darby (Macindoe), Sylvia Mills, Sue Morris (Andison), Barbara Barton (McMurchie), Anne 9 SUNSHINE COAST JERSEY DAY JERSEY DAY IN CANBERRA This year we held our luncheon at the Riverbank Cafe, on the banks of the Queanbeyan River. We enjoyed an excellent meal with lots of chatter.

Many thanks to Margaret Erickson for again taking the photos, as well as Margaret Dent and Lois Maiden.

Present at our Sunshine Coast Reunion Lunch in August 2015 were: Back row: Lindrea LLoyd (Shepherd), Rosemary Howard (Ewen), Jenille Ball (Campbell), Petrina Hawkins (Campbell), Libby Gemmell (Wannan), Rosie Morris, Di Barr (Norton), Lesley Meldrum (Morgan), Jane O’Hare (Provan) Front row: Joan Ewen, Margaret Royle (McGufficke), Jean Edmonds(Horsburgh), Gayle Macready (Clarke) Those present were Dorothy Fletcher (Roberts),Margaret Johnson, Janet Campbell (Hotson), Yvonne Campbell (Gow Gates), Margaret Dent (Goodacre) Shirley Frances (Scott), Wendy Gray (Rabone), Margaret Erickson (Recknell), Ex-Student’s News snippets: Margaret Haylock (Clarson), Margaret Aitken (McCormack), Helen Emanual (French), Judith Dixon (Frost). Lois Maiden Rosie Morris (1976) - I sold my business and continue to (Gale), Once again Alison Sloper an ex student from PLC work in a nursing home. Perth joined us and Suzanne Clubb. Those unable to join One day I’ll have my toy poodle puppy (Ziggy) beautifully us this year were Lily Newman (Millar), Margaret Sedgwick trained! (Bull), Fay Faux (Agnew)Nancy Badewitz (Caldwell) and Jane Smyth (Daly). Gayle Macready (Clarke 1967) - I’m very involved in The Friendship Force Organisation. We have an opportunity to travel and meet people from many different cultures.

Rosemary Howard (Ewen 1970) - Still working in general Lois Madden and practice at Noosa Clinic 3 days per week. Renovating a house Suzanne Clubb and planning to downsize.

Marg Royle (McGufficke 1968 ) - Still skiing the slopes of Silvestor, B.C. Canada and cooling off while Brisbane swelters in mid-summer. Chris Carter (Messenger 1968) from Orange NSW joined the PLC skiers in Canada. My son marries Laya Lugawao in Japan September 2015. Janet Campbell and Margaret Johnson Jean Edmonds (Horsburgh 1965) - More than 5 years now in Qld Sunshine Coast. I’ve discovered cruising and caravanning and I’m enjoying travelling, both in Australia and overseas. My daughter, Olivia Loschiavo (1996) has taken up teaching senior maths near Cairns. This is PLC Pymble’s Centenary year and the Ex-Students in Canberra very kindly invited Ex-students from all the other PLCs to attend their annual reunion luncheonwhich was held on Saturday 19th March at the Commonwealth Club.

Six Croydon and two Goulburn ex-students were present and thoroughly enjoyed a most happy and friendly occasion. Attending from Croydon were Shirley Francis, Wendy Gray, Margaret Aitkin, Margaret Dent, Jane Smythe and Dorothy Fletcher and we all felt that there should be more of these combined occasions.

10 Judith Dixon recently returned from an overseas trip and reported: JERSEY DAY IN MELBOURNE Last September I had the chance to go to Barcelona and see We had our usual gathering for afternoon tea this year the works of Gaudi. I had looked forward to being able to hosted by Sue Pollock in her home . Those attending do this for some time and was not disappointed. Then on to were Joan Macdermid, Faye Pattinson, Marilyn Hogue, Marseille as my friend had to taste this dish in the place of Sue Rea, Lesley Shields, Janet Atkinson, Alex Stewart and its origin! Then to Cannes for the night before we boarded Leonie Gillett. our cruise ship on the Rhone and Saone. After that a fast train to Paris. Onto next cruise on the Seine to the As always we have a delicious afternoon tea and a great Normandy coast and return. Three days in Paris seeing the deal of laughter and talking, we all catch up on the news of things we had missed last time! We had a great time. Can our families and other activities of interest. thoroughly recommend it! Our condolences were given to Janet Atkinson whose Next year’s luncheon will be held on the last Saturday in May. husband has passed away after a long illness.

Also Alex has not been well and we all wish her well for a speedy recovery.

We have planned a reunion for 8th April, 2017 .

Leonie Gillett (Creswell - 1961)

JERSEY DAY IN ADELAIDE

Margaret Haylock, Margaret Erickson, The Adelaide group had a luncheon in March this year Wendy Gray and plan to have another one in the near future.

If you would like further details abou future gatherings please contact Mary Minchin on Telephone: 08 8556 4859 Mobile: 0401123323

Judith Dixon and Dorothy Fletcher

Kinross girls enjoying the Swimming Carnival.

11 NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN NSW

There have been special celebrations during 2016 to mark the 120th anniversary of the founding of the National Council of Women, .

A morning tea was held in June in the Treasury Room at Sydney Town Hall to commemorate the inaugural meeting called in 1896 by Miss Margaret Windeyer at which it was resolved to form the organisation National Council of Women New South Wales. Margaret Windeyer was appointed to the World’s Congress of Representative Women held in Chicago as part of the program for the World Exposition in 1893. There she heard of the National Council of Women of USA founded in 1888. Modelled on this, her idea was for a council of organisations recognising and fighting for women’s rights and equal opportunities.

The first event in 2016 was the annual “Celebrate Being an Australian” Luncheon at Parliament House. Kathryn Greiner AO was guest speaker. Twelve postgraduate students received awards to assist in furthering their studies.

In February the Patron, Mrs Linda Hurley invited presidents of affiliated organisations and life members to Afternoon Tea at Government House, to mark the 120th anniversary of NCW. Mrs Hurley spoke with great understanding about the beginning of the organisation then surprised everyone by singing her own tribute to NCW, to the tune I am Australian.

Breakfast Q & A was a new event this year and the panel discussed questions relating to Concerns for Young Women. The panellists were The Honourable Justice Jennifer Boland AM, Advocate in Family Law and Children’s Rights; Virginia Howard, Former Mayor of Mosman and Chair Taldumande Youth Services; Audrey Markowskei, post-graduate student at Macquarie University.

The Jean Arnot Lunch was held in May. Anna Bligh was guest speaker and also presented Certificates of Appreciation to 28 women in their 90th year or older. The annual Jean Arnot Memorial Fellowship to a librarian was also awarded.

Monthly meeting include an interesting guest speaker. Topics are wide ranging and this year have included Settlement Services for refugees, the Gallipoli Quilt project, and organising the International Piano Competition.

Helen Humphreys (Neal - 1968)

A Farewell Letter from Mr Philip Brewer

Dear Ex-Students,

Retirement time has arrived and it is time for me to depart, but in so doing, may I thank you all for the wonderful support you have provided to PLC through your generosity and on-going association with this place.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my association with you, especially in raising funds for new facilities at PLC, and having the opportunity to meet you for afternoon teas, luncheons and at special events.

A school is only as strong as its community. Ours has a history stretching back nearly 130 years and a heritage to be proud of. I urge you to maintain your associations with the College. It is an outstanding educational establishment providing the very best education available to the girls who enter through the famous green gates. If you haven’t already returned, try to do so to re- connect in the near future.

In particular I extend my warmest greetings to the various re-union groups, including the Octogenarians, the Nonagenarians and our wonderful Shubra Tower Society, all of which are dear to my heart. While a new door is now opening before me, I have many fond memories of our association.

Should any of you wish to remain in touch with me in the future, please call the school and ask for Helen Willson in the Foundation or someone in charge of the school database. I have left my personal contact details with them and would be happy to have them passed on to you.

In departing, my best wishes to you all. Do stay connected with PLC. You are all associated with a very special place, as I am sure you will all agree. Celebrate the memories.

Yours sincerely Philip Brewer 12 AT THE COLLEGE

Over the years there has been much work carried out at the College to improve the educational and physical environment for the students. All of us remember at least some of the old buildings that have been gradually refurbished or demolished over the years as well as purchased to create greater facilities.

These include the gym, a few libraries, the pool, The Croydon (once the local hotel), Evandale (Pre-K to Year 6), Hamilton (Years 3-6), and the Performing Arts Centre.

Well if you haven’t caught up with the news, the old Junior School (Hamilton) – built in the 1960’s, has been demolished and a fantastic new facility, with greater space for the girls , specialized learning areas and a centralized administration block is currently under construction. Here are a few photos of what is happening and an impression of the end result.

I encourage you to come along and bring your partners, family and PLC friends to Jersey Day next year to see what is happening at your school.

Catherine Marvell (Davidson 1975)

July 2016 - Gateway Project

13

EX STUDENT SNAPSHOTS

Victoria Hailey Whitehead (2005) was married at Q Station on North Head (the old Quarantine Station) and on 24 October 2015 . Victoria married Thomas Rozehnal who was actually born just down the road at Manly hospital. Victoria’s grandather, Jack Hailey, walked her down the aisle. We had absolutely perfect weather and it was a wonderful day.

Victoria with her mother Robyn McBride (Hailey - 1976)

Elizabeth Bryan (a PLC girl, finished 2004), Amy Kuiters (a Santa girl), Victoria Rozehnal (Hailey) finished 2005, Samantha Boon (McGee), an Ascham girl and Tegan Miller (a PLC girl finished 2006).

Kelli Stride, Victoria, Nicole Shoebridge, Jessica Wickenden and Vanessa English

Victoria and Tom Rozehnal

14

Michelle Longshaw (1991) and husband Peter Brooks welcomed their 3rd son, Harry into the family May 25 2015. A brother for Thomas and Benjamin.

Michelle has a long line of PLC relatives including sister Karina Etty (Longshaw) 1989, mother Margot Longshaw (Smith), Grandmothers Moya Smith (McLaughlin) and Jessie Longshaw (Angliss), great grandmother Jessie McLaughlin (Millen), and Aunts Elizabeth Cosgrove (Smith), Joan Larking (Longshaw) and Pene Wood (Longshaw).

MADRIGAL GROUP SINGS AT EX - STUDENT WEDDING

On Sunday 28 August 9 girls from the Madrigal Group were fortunate to go and sing at the wedding of an ex- student - Vincci Choy (PLC 2000). Not only did the girls sing at the wedding but they were joined in the performances by the bride herself and four ex PLC students - the Schroers sisters and their mum. Singing with the group on the special day was mum Anne Schroers (Teo 1974), Jade Schroers (2004), Alice Schroers (2006) and Rachel Schroers (2009). The group was also accompanied by ex- student Jennifer Wu (2004). The girls sang beautifully and added much to the service.

15 PEOPLE AND PLACES

Monica Rouvellas Jenny Ward (1983) (2006)

Since leaving PLC, I went on to study a Bachelor of Music ( C o m p o s i t i o n ) at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music (‘the Con’) Campus at the University of Sydney. I was on a scholarship for 4 years and I graduated with a BMus (Composition) 1st Class Honours. Music has always been an area that I have been passionate in ever since I can remember. The course was flexible allowing me to continue learning and performing the violin, write music in all styles (including multichannel electroacoustic composition!) and I also was able to undertake master courses in Music Production. Jenny Ward with Anne Wales (nee Fletcher), also an Ex- Student. Her daughter, Sara (Kah), was in my year. And of course, her daughter, Alexandra, was School Vice Captain in 2015. How’s that for long associations??!!

I completed a Diploma of Teaching at Sydney College of Advanced Education (1984-1986). Whilst at College, I worked as Assistant to the Archivist Mrs Jean Podimatopoulos at PLC Sydney (1984-1987). Mrs Pody was a great lady and I am sure lots of ex-students and staff remember her. After completing my Diploma, I worked for Sutherland Shire Council as Special Needs Teacher.

I was Secretary/Office Administrator for PFA in NSW, which After finishing my degree at the Con, I worked for Sydney became PY (Presbyterian Youth), and NSW Presbyterian University at the Con as a Music and Video Producer for Christian Education. I studied for a Bachelor of Nursing at two and half years. During this time I produced many Sydney University from 1991-1993 and recordings for the Con, including becoming the youngest worked at Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children female music producer in Australia to have my work Camperdown/Children’s Hospital at Westmead, initially broadcasted on national radio with ABC Classic FM. as a Registered Nurse, then Clinical Nurse Specialist, then Clinical Nurse Educator on the Neuroscience Ward. I During this period of time I also started up own music also undertook research from 2001-2004, presenting teaching business, Sydney Violin Studios, and completed my papers on this work nationally and internationally. (1994- MBA in 2012 at the University of Technology of Sydney. 2005). I worked on the Day Stay Unit at Strathfield Private Hospital (2005-2006) In 2013, I began working as Sessional Academic for Macquarie University in the field of International Business and Strategy, I was forced to give up working as a Registered Nurse late whilst continuing to run my own business which has grown in 2006 following a neurological illness. I now spend my substantially and diversifying my business into other areas time delivering/arranging delivery of advertising material including music performing, composing music for various for a local business and doing any administration associated genres including feature films and producing music. with this work.

Today, I am still currently working for Macquarie University I do not use my full name Jennifer as it was the name used and successfully running my own music teaching and when I was ‘in trouble’ at school. The teachers were really production business, with an active online and digital media ‘on to me’ when they used my full name and it always presence. I also consult for PricewaterhouseCoopers got their desired response! I also enjoy music, movies, (PwC) in Sydney from time-to-time in the area of Taxation, computing and spending time with family and friends. And and I am working towards completing a Juris Doctor at the my cat, PK! University of New South Wales.

16 Diane Wilson ( Haynes - 1957) Jessica Atanasovski (2006) has been working as a Diane has finally married her partner of 16 years. A double Corporate Receptionist/Administration Assistant at the celebration, as it was also his 80th Birthday. Congratulations Property Council of Australia for the past 3 years. to them .both

Alison Jones (2006) Tegan Elizabeth Miller (2006) After I finished school I completed a Bachelor of Science I started working at Deloitte in Sydney as a Management at Sydney University, then went on to do a Bachelor of Consultant and then after two years moved to Canberra Medicine at The University of Newcastle. I coached softball to work at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and hockey at PLC whilst I was studying. (DFAT). At DFAT I worked in the Counter Terrorism I met my partner, a farmer in Walcha, NSW, about 6 years section focusing on counter terrorism activities in ago. Now I am a Doctor at Tamworth Rural Referral Indonesia, as I majored in Indonesian at University (having Hospital and plan to work as a rural GP anaesthetist when started it at PLC) and was able to put my language skills to I finish my training. I’m still very close friends with use. After two years at DFAT, I have now moved back into Alexandra Ward and Laura Dexter. We all graduated Management Consulting at Pricewaterhouse Coopers in 2006. (PwC) where I am consulting in the Defence and National Security community. I am still living in Canberra.

THE PLC-VANUATU CONNECTION

In the June 2015 Lowy Institute International Policy Speech, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop stated that “Australia always comes to the aid of our Pacific friends in time of need”. In the wake of Cyclone Winston in Fiji in February of this year, and Cyclone Pam which devastated Vanuatu and other islands last year, it is timely to reflect on the outstanding service of “one of our own” from the PLC community to the people of Vanuatu some years ago.

Barbara Peak (PLC 1953-1958) died in 2004 and issue 74 of our Magazine documented her training qualifications and working life as teacher, deaconess, missionary, and nurse in Australia and overseas. Few of us have lived up to our motto “To make this world a better place and life a worthier thing” as extensively as Barbara. Whilst overseas she gave 8 years of her life in the 1960s and 1970s to the service of Vanuatu’s people.

She visited villages by launch or on foot, often walking for miles, living out of haversacks for weeks on end, preaching in Pidgin, confronting cargo-cults, holding conferences, teaching cooking and handicrafts, writing by hurricane lamp, and constantly having to cope with limited resources. There were four cyclones in the first four months of 1972, wrecking launches and sinking canoes – at one point Barbara considered buying a horse!

But that was typical of Barbara. Her class-mates Alison Scott (Dyster) and Ailsa Thompson (Glendenning) noted that “she was game” and declared, “If you want to see a saint, go and see Barbara”. It is good to remember those who have upheld our motto so selflessly.

L to R: Barbara Peak, Alison Scott (Dyster), Ailsa Marjory Ikin (Hutchinson) (PLC 1954 -1958) Thompson (Glendenning) in 2002.

17 Pamela Fahey (nee Walsh) 1949 – 1953.

She has lived in London since 1957. We caught up with her recently at the PLC International Reception in London and took the opportunity to ask her how being a student at PLC led to a trip to the Queen’s Coronation and to settling in the UK.

While I was at PLC I was the secretary of the school’s Junior Red Cross Circle. Each chapter of the Junior Red Cross from all of the colonies and dominions around the world were asked to send either 1 or 2 representatives to the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in London in June 1953. I was nominated for selection to be one of the Australian representatives and PLC supported my nomination. I was excited to be considered for this opportunity as Miss Barbara Fulton had inspired and fostered my keen interest in history and I had been a budding Anglophile from an early age. After writing a number of essays and meeting with the local Junior Red Cross Committee I was initially selected as the NSW nominee and then one of the two Australian representatives.

I was 16 years old. It was an amazing opportunity and I was away for three months. It took a month to get to England by boat and during the trip a big wide world just opened for me. Members of the local Red Cross at each stop took us into their homes. We saw elephants in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), visited the Sphinx and the Pyramids in Egypt and met soldiers in the Gulf of Aden in the Arabian Sea.

In total, there were 53 representatives of JRC from 28 countries. We were billeted with families and were involved in a variety of JRC activities during our time in England. Princess Mary (King George VI’s sister) was attending one of the events so we were asked to set up a stall representing Australia

On the eve of the Coronation all of the representatives slept on the floor in sleeping bags in a local school and then got up at 5am to take our places on our respective countries’ stands which were in alphabetical order, so the Australian Red Cross stand was near Buckingham Palace. From this spot we watched the parade leave the palace and waved furiously as Princess Elizabeth and all the prestigious guests passed. It was a very wet day so everyone except the Queen of Tonga travelled in covered carriages. She didn’t seem to mind getting wet. We were then able to watch the proceedings direct from inside Westminster Abbey on small screens mounted on lampposts.

Our time in England went all too quickly and then it was back onto the ship and another month to get home. We went through the Suez Canal and we were there the day that Egypt was declared a republic. We were advised to change into our ordinary clothes as our Junior Red Cross uniforms looked very similar to the uniforms worn by the soldiers.

Even before I arrived back in Australia I had made up my mind that I would go back as soon as I could save the fare. There was just so much I wanted to see and do. I wanted to see all the things I had heard about from the many people I had met from so many countries. In those days travel was very expensive so it took several years to save the fare. After completing my Leaving Certificate my first job was with Junior Red Cross and at night I studied typing which was to provide a steady income temping in London in the future.

I was 20 years old by the time I had saved enough for a return ticket and then I was off, with nothing more than a few contacts and a sense of adventure. I made friends on the ship, and I already had somewhere to stay and a job lined up in London. This time I travelled via the Panama Canal, Tahiti and Fiji.

There was no Facebook and no internet discussion groups in those days. Our message boards were pinboards in the Overseas Club. I saw a note that two friends travelling to Scandinavia were looking for a third to share expenses, so I went along. I washed dishes in Stockholm and got a job with a Berlitz language school teaching English with a broad Aussie accent. We met Finns in Finland and Laps in Lapland. We spent a lot of time trying to explain that we were from Australia, not Austria.

As you travelled around you’d arrange to meet up with people a few months later, in another country. For some of the time I travelled with other PLC old girls - Margaret Bowring (nee Wennholm)(Wennie) and Judith Costa (nee Keyworth) but I also travelled solo, making new friends along the way. A safe way to meet fellow Aussies was to go to the local church on Sundays. We often hitch-hiked as a way of meeting the locals and saving the train fare. We stayed in a variety of places including monasteries and youth hostels or with local families.

Over the next few years I continued temping and travelling in Europe and America before marrying in 1962 and settling permanently in London and raising two daughters. My younger daughter and her husband live in the North-east of England. My elder daughter and three grandchildren live in Canberra.

Fortunately travel is so much cheaper and quicker now and thanks to Facebook and Skype it is also easier and cheaper to stay in touch. For many years a phone call from home was a once a year event on Christmas Day.

18 Belinda York (1976)

Belinda is a highly accomplished senior executive with over 26 years in Information Systems industry. Finalist Telstra Business Woman of the Year Award 1997.

She has lead seven successful business start-ups across her career including establishing her first business at 21 which she sold seven year later enabling her to partner in a franchise start-up in the USA.

On returning to Australia 2.5 years later, in 1988, Belinda entered the fledgling PC software market as Software Product Manager for Tech Pacific. Within 18 months she was given the opportunity to participate and manage a joint venture spin off from Tech Pacific with US based Borland International. Appointed Managing Director Asia Pacific for newly formed Borland Pacific Belinda established her credentials in the high growth IT industry. Over next 14 years she has lead four Australia and Asia Pacific subsidiary operations for US software companies; Borland International, Avid Technology, Onyx Software and Fairmarket Network.

She is currently Director and Business Development Manager for Dynamic Modular Constructions a company she co-founded in 2008.

Experience: start-ups, company acquisition, mergers, strategic marketer, team builder, motivator, strong business acumen

External Boards & Committees

• Sydney Harbour Federation Trust - CAC - 2010 – current • Australian Information Industry Association - NSW Board member 1998 - 2003 • Australian Council of Businesswomen Summit - NSW Delegate, Canberra, 1997 • State Chamber of Commerce, IT&T Policy Committee - 1994 - 1996 • National Enterprising Women, Policy Committee - 1995 - 1997 • Director - Business Software Association of Australia - 1992-1995

19 LIFE SINCE THE BIG GREEN GATES Emma Bechara (2008)

When I graduated from PLC in 2008, I felt ready to take on the world. I had just completed 13 years of schooling at one of the best schools in the country, had served as School Prefect and House Captain, had cemented lifelong friendships (those girls still are my best friends today) and had the privilege of being taught by selfless teachers who worked tirelessly to ensure that their students’ education was all-rounded. The world was my oyster. Armed with that feeling, I stepped out (wide eyed!) into the world outside the Big Green Gates, and started a journey that I have never regretted.

My journey since PLC has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs and of long plateaus. After graduating in 2008, I completed a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Journalism) at UTS. I loved UTS, During my time there I immersed myself in university life - sports, the arts, mooting and I was heavily involved in the Law Students Society, where I humbly served one year as President. Law school was an incredibly academically challenging time – it is certainly not for the faint hearted! But I have always known that I wanted a politically and legally charged career, and so while working part time as a paralegal at Norton Rose Fulbright, I put my head down for 5 years and with a wonderful collection of friends and family, excellent professors and a wonderful university, I finished law school. I graduated from UTS with First Class Honours in Law, was selected as class valedictorian for the Valedictory Dinner (an award presented by the Law Students Society, in conjunction with the UTS Faculty of Law), was awarded the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to UTS Law and was asked to serve a one-year tenure on the UTS Law Faculty Advisory Board. It was an incredible time in my life.

After graduating from UTS, I was humbled when I was invited to join the Sydney office of UK-based international Magic Circle firm, Allen & Overy as a graduate lawyer, and took great pleasure in accepting the job. But after nearly two years with the firm, I knew I wasn’t ready to stop my academic pursuits, and with business and academic opportunities in the United States ever on the increase, I set my sights on the US and started applying to their Masters of Law programs. I applied, and was very fortunate, to be accepted into several of the top schools in the country – but it was always NYU that I wanted. The day I was accepted into NYU is a day I will never forget – I don’t think anything could have wiped the smile from my face! It was a truly humbling experience.

I have completed my one-year Masters of Law program at NYU in June 2016. And what a year it was! I specialized in Intellectual Property and I have taken a keen interest in politics, media and business. I took courses at NYU taught by world-renowned professors and learned from my peers who are some of the brightest legal minds from across the world. While it has certainly been hard going to law school in a foreign jurisdiction, I have learnt so much, I have engaged my mind to a level that I have only ever dreamt about and I have been exposed to cultures (through my new NYU friends) from everywhere from Mexico to Saudi Arabia. I am currently living in New York, and doing work for some organizations back home, in addition to volunteer work in the US. I don’t quite know what my next step is – I feel very fortunate to be 25 years old with a Masters of Law from one of the top law schools in the world and with many avenues of work available to me. I am taking my time in making my next decision, and at the moment just enjoying some time away from my books!

While my family and friends have played the largest support role, I really do also largely credit PLC with shaping my education for 13 years and for instilling in its young ladies a real sense of self and an encouragement that they can, and should, make their mark on the world. And while the journey after the Big Green Gates is not easy (I shed a lot of tears, threw a fit or two (or ten), laughed a lot, felt lost a lot and wanted to quit a lot) a wholesome education is the most rewarding experience. It takes a lot of work, late nights (and lots of coffee!), an excellent support system and a real understanding that while there will be bad days, there will also be good days, and the key is to take lessons from them both. I am a passionate believer in the force of women, and so to my fellow young women at PLC, I cannot encourage you all enough to go out into the world and to continue your education. Chase those dreams. You never know in what city, what country, what field you may be, or what path you make take – but as the classic saying goes, it’s not the destination that counts – it’s the journey. And the journey, no matter its shape, form or length, is just so worthwhile. Good luck and best wishes!

20 PLC 1956 Leavers Morning Tea and Lunch October REUNIONS 2015

Choose to have Jersey Day 2017 (Saturday 11 March) as As we had done in previous years, we co-ordinated with a part of your reunion celebrations. 1955 Leavers - courtesy of Pat Wallace (Bartlett) and In 2017 we encourage all ‘old girls’ to bring their again had our Morning Tea at ‘Eden Gardens’ Macquarie partners and families to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of Park. entertainment and friendship in the College grounds. Many ex-students have not set foot inside the school Our tables were side by side, making it very easy for all to grounds since they left and find it interesting to return, move around and both years to mix and talk. especially in the company of their contemporaries. VENUE: PLC Sydney, Boundary St Croydon DATE & TIME: Saturday 11 March 2017 from 1.45pm to 4pm. Tours of the school, archival displays, afternoon tea SIGNIFICANT YEARS FOR 2017 2007: 10 year anniversary 1997: 20 year anniversary 1987: 30 year anniversary 1977: 40 year anniversary 1967: 50 year anniversary 1957: 60 year anniversary

15 of us attended from 1956, including Lorene Lee, Helen Waddington (Keir), Nan Stevenson (Craddock), Vanessa Arndell (Munro), Janet SAVE THE DATE!!! Newman (Whipp), Margaret Mitchell (Davies), Jan McAndrew (Dobell), Wilma Bullock-Wray (Small), Pam Nolan (Wrench), Linda Cook (Bell), 50 YEAR REUNION of the Ann Byrnes (Vandyke), Janice Clarke (Scott), Nan Lewis (Ferguson), Marilyn Philip (Goodsir) and CLASS OF ‘67 Carol Lyons (Schiess). Some of you left in 1965 or ‘66 but we were all in the same year Carol Lyons (Schiess) for most of high school!! We will be holding our 60 Year Reunion at PLC on Sunday 16th October 2016 at 11.30am for lunch and afternoon WHEN: SATURDAY 4TH tea.. NOVEMBER 2017 For further information or to make a booking please contact Carol Lyons (Schiess) WHERE: Not sure yet! email - [email protected] Time: Evening for cocktails & dinner! Phone - 0403236657

If you haven’t already received 2017 marks 50 years since the first Higher this via email could you please School Certificate was held. Any girl who contact Susan Hepworth (nee did the School Certificate in 1965 or the Higher School Certificate in 1967 is very Teasdell) on welcome to return to the College on Jersey [email protected] Day 2017 and see the remarkable changes that have occurred. Special tours can be arranged - maybe the boarders would like to see the Boarding House. Further details available from the Secretary.

21 FROM THE ARCHIVES Remembering Mrs E. O. Anderson

The name “Anderson” has been associated with PLC Sydney for well over a century, but who exactly was Mrs E.O. Anderson?

As Gertrude Dunlop, she was a student at PLC from 1898 to 1903. She was academically gifted and her name was often on the Roll of Honour published each term in the Aurora Australis. She also received prizes on Speech Day: French, Music, Piano, English, History and Geography.

She was a member of the Student Christian Union and the “A” tennis team. In 1902, the year basketball was introduced in the College, she played for the Day Girls. Indeed, she was ready for play on 3 June 1902, when a severe hailstorm – some of the hailstones “were as large as eggs” – Gertrude Dunlop as a prevented the game from even starting. student in 1900

Gertrude sat both the Junior and Senior University Examinations. Although she matriculated for university, she did not attend. She finished Mrs E. O. Anderson, c1964 her education in 1903 and in 1904 enjoyed what we would now term a “gap year”. In January she sailed on the India for a “twelve months’ sojourn abroad”. Her continental tour included France and England, at least, and later she visited Egypt and the Nile.

Her marriage to Elias Outram Anderson took place at St James Church, Burwood, in 1910. Upon the death of her father, John Sym Dunlop (who was a member of College Council from 1902 to 1912), Mr Anderson took over the management of Edwards Dunlop, wholesale stationers and paper merchants with branches in Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Newcastle.

The Andersons had three children; the two daughters, Margaret and Gertrude, attended PLC Sydney. Gertrude was School Captain in 1939.

Mrs Anderson was an active member of the Ex-Students’ Union, serving as President from 1928-1932, again in 1936-1937, and then Patroness from 1941 until 1985.

Perhaps she is best remembered for the petition she and Miss Clayton presented to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in May 1932 calling for ex-students of the College to be able to be members of the College Council. At the time it did not seem an anomaly for a girls’ school to be run and managed entirely by men. The petition pointed out that “Ex-students would bring to the Council the enthusiasm born of a deep and abiding love for the College” and that “girls are embryo women, and the feminine point of view must be considered”. The petition was considered favourably and as a consequence Mrs Anderson, Mrs M Fischer (May Gregg) and Miss Mildred Rees became members of College Council. Mrs Anderson served in that position until her retirement in 1958.

The Andersons gave generously to the College by means of the building fund, a scholarship and in converting the old laundry into the Anderson Room. Today we honour Gertrude Anderson in Anderson House, established in 1968 with its motto “Semper constans – Stand sure”.

That PLC Sydney was close to Mrs E. O Anderson’s heart is demonstrated in her definition of the College:

The place where we started with hope, and finished with love and faith; a place of happiness to which we return from time to time, and always find her arms stretched out to us in welcome.

The Senior University Examination was similar to the Higher School One of two certificates awarded Certificate of today to Gertrude Dunlop by the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music

22 FROM THE ARCHIVES

Class of 1986 reunites at 30 year reunion

Members of the Class of 1986 met at the College on 28 May 2016 to mark their 30 year reunion. After tours of the Boarding House and the campus, the classmates went to the Macindoe Research Centre where they enjoyed socialising together and watching a slide presentation of images from their school days.

Now and . . . then

Members of the Class of 1986 at their 30 year reunion Catching up in Macindoe Research Centre

1986 Athletics Carnival The year group in 1986 with Principal Dr McKeith Photo credit: Prudence Wales

Looking back to 1986 • There were 715 students • It was Dr McKeith’s first year as Principal • The Year 12 Formal was held at The Sebel Townhouse in Elizabeth Bay • Ferguson came first in the Athletics Carnival • Anderson won the House Choir competition for the first time • More than 150 members of the PLC community took part in the 40 Hour Famine

The Classes of 1976, 1996 and 2006 also held reunions at the College during the year.

23 FROM THE FOUNDATION

We began 2016 with the start of the actual construction of the new Junior School and Gateway Project. We are now past the demolition stage and have watched the foundations being laid and the usual scaffolding and other paraphernalia being on the site. It is a fascinating process.

The Foundation/Development Office is closely involved in supporting this exciting project, which combines the best of technology and ‘green’ innovation; and our dedicated teachers and Junior School girls will work together in state-of-the-art classrooms. The Foundation is soon launching an exciting initiative to allow ex-students, current families, students and members of the PLC family to support the Gateway Project by purchasing an inscribed brick. The inscribed to be placed in an architecturally designed and landscaped walkway. This is a wonderful opportunity to have your name and your PLC family connections permanently displayed in the walkway.

Acknowledging the global focus of education, PLC Sydney is looking to Asia and beyond to encourage enrolments from future parents and ex-students who have moved overseas to work, some of whom are considering boarding their daughters at PLC or moving back to Sydney. With that in mind, during the month of May, the College hosted International Cocktail Receptions in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and London.

I am pleased to report that all the events were a great success, with over 140 people attending in Shanghai, 160 in Beijing, approx 60 in Hong Kong and a smaller number attending the London dinner. The result was 13 enrolment applications received. It was pleasing to see 3 ex-students who live in Hong Kong enrolling their daughters to study at PLC.

Mr Richard Saul, Managing Director of the Ritz Hotel in Beijing was pleased to let us know that his 83 year old mother was an ex student of PLC Sydney!

The feedback from the ex-students who attended these events has been very positive, and many were delighted to have the opportunity to reminisce with other PLC ‘old girls’ and to meet Dr Burgis.

These functions also provide the Networking opportunities that are so useful these days. I hope the reunions were a good starting point for some strong connections between our ex-students.

These international events are important to ensure the financial viability and diversity of a College such as PLC.

Foundation Events: Thursday 20 October Nonagenarians’ and Octogenarians’ Brunch Macindoe Research Centre, Level 3 11.30am – 1.30pm Wednesday 26 October Shubra Tower Society Marden Library 10.30 am - 2.00 pm

John Da Cruz Director of Development Executive Officer for the PLC Sydney Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE CONTRIBUTIONS TO The Editorial Committee would like to thank all those NEWSLETTER who have forwarded contributions to the magazine. Unfortunately, space does not allow for all news Having a reunion next year? Want to contact a long lost received to be printed in full. We have reproduced as friend? Send in the details to be included in the February many photographs as space and finance allow. All care Newsletter, calendar of events. All items must be received is taken in transcription and typesetting of information no later than 15th January, 2017. received, however should an error occur please accept our apologies. Please hand print or type all contributions. Please send details to: The Editor would like to remind members the cut off date for news and articles for publication in the magazine is the The Editor, The Ex-Students’ Union, C/- PLC Sydney, 15 June of each year. Boundary Street, Croydon, 2132 or email [email protected]

24 JOHN MARDEN MEMORIAL LIBRARY The provision of a library was one of the original objectives of the Ex-Students’ Union. By 1909 the fund-raising efforts of the Union were concentrated towards the proposed Library Fund. The library project was suspended during World War I when fund-raising supported the war effort.

By 1922 the Special Fund had grown to over 200 pounds and the Union decided that it should all be spent on books to form the nucleus of a library. A committee was formed to select books and conduct the affairs of the library. The books were kept in oak bookcases in College Hall.

Dr Marden’s death in 1924 and the ex-students’ wish to honour him with a suitable memorial provided the impetus for the John Marden Memorial Library. The Library, which cost approximately 1300 pounds, was opened by Mrs Marden on Jersey Day 1927. The Union contributed some of the cost and individual ex-students also made donations. Individual subscribers to the memorial fund received from Mrs Marden a Memorial Booklet containing most of the notices which appeared in the papers at the time of Dr Marden’s death, and also some of his own writings and his photograph.

The Library also became a memorial to Dr Marden’s family. In 1935, the Union put a brass tablet in the Library, in memory of Mrs Marden who died on 13 October 1934. Photographs of Dr Marden’s grandsons, Pilot Officer Raymond (Bob) de Pierres and Flight Sgt. John Barrymore Marden, were also hung there. Both young men were airmen killed during World War II.

The Ex-Students’ Union also undertook to pay for the upkeep of the Library. This included physical maintenance such as painting and additional furniture as well as a steady stream of new books.

By the end of the 1960s, the John Marden Memorial Library was no longer adequate for the needs of the College. In November 1969 the Chairman of the College Council (Mr F L Thompson) advised the Union’s Annual Meeting by letter of the proposed relocation of the school library. While some ex-students were sorry that their gift to the school would cease to play its intended role they understood the need for new facilities to support progress at the College. The new era for Marden will ensure its continuing contribution to College life.

Alison Meldrum (Neal) MARDEN APPEAL 2016 “At the Annual Meeting of the Ex-Students’ Union held on 11th November 1924, it was decided that the Croydon Ex- Students’ Memorial to their beloved principal should take the form of a library and reading room to be erected at the College.

The Ex-Students’ Union started the fund with a donation of £50. A circular was sent to every old girl who could be traced, and subscriptions have been received from all over Australia, from New Zealand, Fiji, England, Canada and the United States of America, and nearly half the total was received in this way.” Miss E. Mary Buzacott, Jersey Day, 1927

The Ex-Students’ Union now seeks your contribution to the refurbishment of Marden.

Please include your name, address and phone number when making your donation. (email your details to the Treasurer when using direct deposit) Cheques to PLC Sydney Ex-Students’ Union

The Treasurer PLC Sydney Ex-Students’ Union Boundary Street, CROYDON 2132

Direct Deposit: BSB: 062001 A/C: 00908693 Your name in the reference field

25 NEW LIFE MEMBERS MARRIAGES We welcome the following new Life Members, Year 12, Anais Alonso, Taylah Barrett, Chelsea Batten, Claudia Beith, 7/11/2015 - Jessica Atanasovski (2006) married James Dunn at the Museum of Contemporary Arts Sydney. Isabella Buchanan, Isabella Caddy, Georgina Chardon, Jiaxin (Lenna) Chui, Vinita Chumsri, Eleni Danias, Hillary Davis, Isabella Devine-Poulos, Sarah Dobson, Samantha Donaldson, Amy Fergusson, Katherine Foudy, DEATHS Brittany Gann, Celine Garrett, 29.1.2016 Robyn Horn (Muir - 1963), Sister of Clare Giang, Stephanie Giannini, Denise. Maria Glinellis, Hannah Green, Angela Guan, Sampada Gurung, 16.7.2016 Norma Catherine Wright (Schuler Unjelique Hajjar, Eileen He, 1946), Wife of Les. Late of Bayview. Sophia Henning, Edwina Hobson, Bing Ni (Michelle) Hu, Chloe Jamieson-Grigg, 26.7.2016 Mr Otto Herbst, Husband of Margaret Breeman Johnson, Olivia Kerr, (Olding) Hayley Lennon, Yui Yee (Chloe) Leung, Aiqiao (Zoe) Li, Brenda Li, 28.7.2016 Mr Erich Paul Hess, Husband of Lyn (Shanks) Daisy Li, Renee Lim, Su Yu (Susan) Liu, Emma Lukabyo, 16.8.2016 Barbara McGarity (Nicholas), an Jessica Lyons, Phoebe Maher, ex-student Claudia Menzies, Cassandra Meyer, Alexia Morelli, Chemonica Niranjan, August 2016 Mr Michael D’Arbon, husband of Jane Kaitlin Nobbs, Natasha Noore, (Fredrix, 1972), father of Gemma (2001), Monica Park, Georgia Peacocke, Nicola (2003) and Georgia (2009). Elizabeth Polley, Angelica Polly, Brother in law of Mia Fredrix (1975) Josie Potter, Valentina Raguz, Rachel Raskopoulos, Lucy Roberts, August 2016 Barbara Marianne McGarity (Nicholas, 1952), Aunt of Sevanne Georgia Saclley, Natasha Salanitro-Chafei, McGarity. Lucinda Scales, Claire Sharman, Rachael Sung, Victoria Taylor, Larissa Tse, Isabella Vari, Jessica Wang, Tian Qi (Christina) Wang, Emma Whitney, Sarah Williamson, Selina Williamson, Bay-Lea Wilson, Kelly Wong, RuiYuan (Elaine) Yang, Sophie Yee, Vanessa Young, Amy Yu, Shichan (Celina) Yu, Grace Zhang, Min Zhang, Le Meng (Wennie) Zi.

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26 PRESBYTERIAN LADIES’ COLLEGE SYDNEY EX-STUDENTS’ UNION RULES OF CONSTITUTION (AS AMENDED 2009) (COLLEGE FOUNDED 1888)

1 The name shall be the “Presbyterian Ladies’ College Sydney Ex-Students’ Union”.

2 The objects of the Union are: (a) to foster loyalty to the College and to maintain a closer relationship between past and present students. b) to maintain an interest in the John Marden Memorial Library Building provided, however, that this will not be understood in any way to impose any financial or other burden on the Union. (c) to hold reunions and meetings and carry out social functions pertaining to the welfare of the Union and College. (d) to publish The Ex-Students’ News once a year.

3 All former students applying for membership must have attended the College for a year or more, including their final year at school, provided, however, that the Committee, in their discretion, shall be at liberty to admit students who have attended the College for not less than one year, but not including their final year at school.

4 The management of the Union shall be in the hands of a Committee consisting of: a President, two (2) Vice-Presidents, an Honorary Secretary, an Honorary Assistant Secretary, an Honorary Treasurer, an Honorary Assistant Treasurer and a minimum of six (6) ordinary members. The office bearers shall be elected by ballot at the Annual General Meeting.

(a) Notice of the Annual General Meeting together with a request for nominations for office bearers shall be sent by the Secretary to every member, at least one month before the Annual General Meeting. (b) Nominations for office bearers shall be signed by the person nominated, the proposer and the seconder, and shall be in the hands of the Secretary at least ten days before the Annual General Meeting. (c) The result of the election shall be declared at that meeting. Subject to the conditions of Clause 4 (d) hereof, all members of the Committee shall be eligible for re-election. Fifty percent of the oldCommittee must be retained for the next Committee. Office bearers shall be ex-officio members of all Sub-Committees. (d) Any President can only serve a maximum of three years in any one term of office, although she can be elected as President again any number of times, provided that at the conclusion of each of her terms of office another President serves a term of office. (e) No member of the Union will be eligible for election to any office on the Committee other than that of an ordinary member until she has served for a minimum of one year as an ordinary member. (f) Any office bearer elected to the office of Vice President, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Assistant Secretary, Honorary Treasurer or Honorary Assistant Treasurer may only serve a maximum of three consecutive one-year terms in that office. However, if, at the conclusion of any office bearer’s three-year term in any one of the said offices, there is no nomination for that office, then that same office bearer, being willing to stand again, shall be eligible to be re-nominated for the same office for a maximum of three consecutive one-year terms.

5 The Committee shall appoint Sub-Committees, as necessary, with a Convenor for each. The Convenors of the Sub-Committees shall keep records of the business transacted by their Sub-Committees, and submit a written report of the same to the Committee.

6 The President shall preside at all Meetings of the Union. One of the Vice-Presidents shall preside in the absence of the President and perform the duties of that office. In the event of neither the President nor a Vice President being present, the meeting shall elect a member from amongst themselves to preside.

7 The Honorary Secretary shall keep full and correct minutes of all resolutions and proceedings at meetings of the Committee in a book to be provided for that purpose, and shall produce them at all meetings. The Honorary Secretary shall issue the notices for all meetings, keep a list of members with their addresses, take charge of all correspondence and papers belonging to the Union, and generally perform such duties as the Committee may prescribe. In her absence, the Assistant Secretary shall fulfil her duties.

8 The Honorary Treasurer shall collect all moneys belonging to the Union, and shall disburse the same, under the direction of the Committee and also shall report in writing the state of the finances when required, and at the Annual General Meeting shall present a written Report showing all the receipts and expenditure during the year.

9 An Auditor shall be elected by the Committee, who shall certify the accounts submitted.

10 At all Committee Meetings the quorum shall consist of five (5), and at all Sub-Committee Meetings of three (3). Any member of the Committee absent from three (3) consecutive meetings, without notifying the Honorary Secretary, shall cease to be a member thereof, and the vacancy shall be filled by the Committee.

11 Any proposed alteration in the Constitution shall be notified in writing to the Honorary Secretary thirty days (30) days before the Annual General Meeting, and no rule shall be altered save by a majority of members present at such meeting.

12 The Annual General Meeting shall be held not later than the last week in November and a quorum for this meeting must consist of ten (10).

13 In the event of anything occurring not mentioned in the scope of this Constitution, the Committee shall have the power to deal with it at their discretion, and their decision shall be binding upon the Union.

14 The Committee or the President, on the written request of not less than ten (10) members, shall call a Special General Meeting, the object of which shall be expressed in the requisition. Twenty members present shall form a quorum at such Special General Meeting.

15 The Union is a non profit making organisation and no member shall have any beneficial interest in the Union or its fund. In the event of the Union ceasing to function, any surplus funds or assets will be donated to the Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Sydney or the Presbyterian Church of Australia following a resolution passed by a majority of members present either at an Annual General Meeting or at a Special General Meeting called for this purpose 27 PLC CARD DAY

Calling all card playing Ex-Students and their friends. Please come to our Annual Card Day to be held at Pymble Golf Club, Cowan Road, St Ives Monday 20 March, 2017 from 10.00am until 3.00pm

It’s a wonderful air-conditioned venue, overlooking the fairways. Plenty of parking Morning Tea and Lunch included in the price.

For bookings please contact Marina Clark (Lvoff) email: [email protected] Telephone 0425 200 984

60 YEAR REUNION

The President and Committee of PLC Sydney Ex-Students’ Union extend a welcome to ex-students who completed Intermediate Certificate 1955 or Leaving Certificate 1957 to attend Jersey Day on Saturday 11 March, 2017

Tours of the school can be arranged.

Further details please contact The Secretary - randecgregory @ gmail.com