Volume 22 No 2 September 2019

Wagga Wagga Teachers’ College Choir 1956

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE A month’s delay in this issue of Talkabout while Lesley and I took an extended tour through Europe, including a wonderful Uniworld river cruise from Amsterdam to Bucharest.

Prior to the cruise we loved meeting up with Maggie Har- ris (née Ward 1966-67) in London and Lizzie Tuttlebee Maggie, Bruce and Lesley - London (née Mertens 1960-61) in Amsterdam. Both of them filled us in briefly about their interesting and different life stories since College days.

Our final few weeks in Northern Italy were super as our son, Peter, was our very capable guide.

In this way we celebrated our golden wedding anniversary. It’s good to be home but sad to see the terrible drought ef- fects. Bruce, Lesley Lizzie and husband Bruce Forbes Amsterdam President Page 1

EDITOR’S NOTE - Brian Powyer

Welcome to the actions that occurred between It is pleasing as editor to have a second edition of those who remained friends and continuing supply of articles and I Talkabout for colleagues long after their College again remind all members that we 2019. Thanks to days. all have a memory, a story or just all the contribu- an opportunity to reach out to oth- tors for taking the In this edition I have attempted to ers that you can send to us for in- time and effort to submit their catch up on the backlog of articles clusion in Talkabout. Photo- articles for this edition. The sto- received over the past year or so. graphs, both current and of yes- ries and memories you have pro- To those who may be a little dis- teryear, help add to your article vided about your time at Wagga appointed in that their article is and the appeal of Talkabout for Wagga Teachers’ College further not included I will endeavour to the reader. enrich the background and inter- include it in the next edition.

ACROSS THE SECRETARY’S DESK - Lesley Forbes

It continues to have passed on messages to the your session or small friendship be a joy to re- editor for inclusion in Talkabout. groups getting together. ceive emails and calls from mem- It is great to be back in Oz, so Enjoy the current edition and bers and whilst please keep in touch and let us continue to send in articles, for we have taken a know what you are doing, espe- without them there is nothing to short break I cially if there are any plans for Talkabout.

THERE WAS NO PIANO - Jennifer Brack (Snodgrass) (1950-51)

When I say my years at WWTC do the Infants training course, but piano – there was no piano. were 50/51, I only spent one se- was refused because I couldn’t mester in ’50’. Ours was one of play the piano. As I am given to writing doggerel two truncated courses. In June, every now and then, I’m sending instead of setting out on my long My first appointment? Men- one I wrote about an incident in journey from my hometown of dooran Public school – three 1954 - True Friendship. I hope it teachers only and I had K, 1st and makes you smile – and no, I Mendooran to Wagga Wagga, I nd was in hospital having my appen- 2 classes, 51 students and seat- couldn’t make him throw away dix removed. When I finally ar- ing for 50, Oh dear!! And it did- his friend’s property so we rived at the College, I wanted to n’t matter that I couldn’t play the wrapped it in some paper.

TRUE FRIENDSHIP John was the son of a local G.P. Now one fine morning about ten-thirty Bob was the son of another Young Bob was caught chewing gum! Very good friends they happened to be ‘You know I think that habit is dirty. More like little twin brothers. You know I think it is dumb John would play with Bob’s Hornby train, Now just you throw it in the bin Bob would ride on John’s horse. And stay in at recess. They played in one house on days of rain Make sure that none of it sticks to you And shared everything of course. I’m cross with you I confess.’ Now in school these two buddies were kept apart A tear runs down our hero’s cheek, For they talked too much you see. After all, he’s only seven, John was put into 2A for a start, ‘Please, Miss. I can’t! It’s John’s you see, And Bob was put in 2B. And he wants it back at eleven!’

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ON BEING A JUNIOR SECONDARY TEACHER

Sue Edmondson (Rankin) Jnr Secondary English/Social Sciences (1965-66) I have sometimes wondered if and that we would be required to presentations. No wonder an the experience of Junior Second- assess, if not teach, to 4 levels, inspector's report said 'she will ary students was somewhat dif- in every subject. become more innovative with ferent to that of primary stu- experience' - a quiet classroom dents, so I have indulged in a In most high schools Commerce was the message! reflection. or Business Principles was a sta- ple for those who left at Year 9 The formality of Miss and Mr I found myself at WWTC in or 10 and in the Geography- did not help us relate to each English-Social Sciences Junior Economics Department, but other or the staff, and for the Secondary in 1965 on a sort of there was no mention of it. In women it was a loss of the more 'get out of jail free' card after fact, there was no mention of comfortable (but proper) rela- failing first year at ANU. I had curricula at all, or of program- tionship we had with male teach- signed up to 9 years on a teach- ming, or of day books, or even ers in school. Girls were social- ers’£ scholarship to university, an example of 'teaching notes' – ised to be quiet and the men including a 5 year bond, for sometimes asked for in exams. were mostly quiet by nature and which my father and another had In fact, exams, to me, had be- any move to break the male- to sign a £1000 surety as guaran- come an exercise in 'guess what female seating order or mores tors, which was hugely embar- I am thinking'. would have been very conspicu- rassing, and with no information ous in such a small group. The as to how it would be discharged The lecturers seemed to feel that men were mostly from Sydney if I defaulted at any point. the lecture method, (but without and the women mostly from re- the balance of tutorials), would gional Australia, so that when a A letter arrived before Xmas of- maintain academic status for a couple of the men took the lec- fering me a place at WWTC but lowly teachers college, despite turers on, as they regularly did, we would be required to pay the its lack of any educational justi- (and sometimes to the death), I first year's board and I would fication. We were a group of felt they were more sophisticated receive no allowance until I students any teacher would die than I was. I wonder now if it passed first year. With about as for – good size, compliant, and was not more a matter of who much joy as I might have felt with enough spark, drive and was the number one male in the going to a home for unmarried goodwill to make a more active room as much as new ideas chal- mothers I arrived at College, fa- workshop approach work bril- lenging the old and it may also ther with cheque book ready for liantly, but we spent 2 years have been that certain lecturers the unspecified fee. (From what I passively in a tutorial sized simply got right under their skin! saw it was modest). He was im- group (even when the education mediately recognised by Mr subjects were shared with Maths There were no women lecturers Fone, when we went to the din- -Science), and rarely, if ever, for us but there were in Maths- ing hall for a cup of tea, from were engaged in discussion, or Science, where a friend became their time in the M and D Socie- ty in Forbes years before. I felt no better.

There were 16 of us and a few less in Maths-Science. We would go out into high schools where we might be a year older than the Year 12's in the play- ground, though we were only meant to teach to Year 10. There was no mention of the fact that all curriculum would have Science Open Day Wagga Wagga Teachers’ College 1964 changed since we were in school

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quite engaged with the begin- morning to a kitchen midden in a she got there!) said very firmly nings of computers and Biology river bank near one of those typ- 'you must never end up shrieking for the first time and more. She ical verandahed houses along the like that!' married into the Riverina, kept Murray and Murrumbidgee. Mr Maths alive in various country Sale's slides took us to North We saw the end of rissoles with schools and now has a key role America and Mr Durband came a noisy walkout at Saturday in their most innovative farm, from the school Paul McCartney lunch. Something was happen- identifying new plants in central attended and introduced us to a ing. A petition was circulated Australia as a hobby and leading form of functional grammar, secretly in duffle coat pockets in land regeneration. excellent for a few prac lessons and a union representative ap- but mystifying to my final super- peared one evening on the back We were, however the group visor, a primary lecturer, who of a ute with a loud hailer. Not which had an excursion to the also found fault with my chalk- everyone turned up. We saw a Snowy! We waited in our bus board writing. Would it have change in the rules that extended for a man to speak to us about hurt the budget if we had been curfew by an extra hour but with leaving a town now inundated allowed chalk to practise over fiendish intelligence Mr Hale (but he wouldn't come out of his the 2 years ? won as our fellow students had house), we experienced the to police it and dob in their ma- greatest relief in Australia, were The principal at Gundagai then tes! Baked chops, a recogniza- told that Mt Kosciusko was not let us off the last afternoon and ble dish, appeared on the menu the highest peak by a local invit- took us aside to inform us some along with a few changes. A ed to address us and hiked the of the things they omitted tell couple of second years were sent most awful uphill climb. The you in teachers college'– don't a long way away for their first question posed as to whether Sir use 'Dear X' in a Departmental appointments! Edgeworth David was right in memo, never be in a room alone his views on glaciation in Aus- with a student or touch a student, The introduction of Sciences in- tralia is one I still have to pursue join the union (particularly if to our course, consisting solely (but I have read the biography of you forgot the rules) and never of Trewin's Maths, (apeing his wife). In case you wondered, criticise the work of the previous UNSW which had a science unit nothing happened. teacher of your class. It was requirement in an arts degree to very thoughtful. give a more rounded degree for a The History course was cut short modern age), was brilliant for a by the death of the lecturer Along with Sex Advising, a nod couple of us at least as it gave us whom I believe took up History to student welfare, when we leverage into maths. My choice after the Fall of Rome. The re- were allocated a Section Advi- of learning to use audiovisual placement was a social scientist sor, a total stranger to me, for equipment as an option also who was allowed to wing it. We advice on what I am not sure, proved invaluable: I could use a touched on ethnomusicology and since he did not appear to have Bell and Howell along with the the Ming Dynasty. Class presen- any of our work or results, or best and the Gestetner became tations were proposed but did any kind of idea what to do, I my friend (and long into the not eventuate. The whole of col- was also referred mid-year for night at exam time). lege Australian Studies in sec- Speech Remedial, with Mr Cam- ond year was a godsend – Don- bourne. We circled the circum- On the second last day I had a ald Horne and others! Who ference of the classroom whilst lapse of concentration and was would have thought! Someone he tried to present a plan. It ap- late for a lecture for the only should have been congratulated, peared to come from a prac com- time, arriving as another lectur- as it was just the kind of stuff to ment 'she must learn to roar, but er was making small talk to the inform your teaching (as well as not like a dove'. A primary prac group and his fellow lecturer as get you in touch with current was an option, which may well he passed by. It provoked an debate!) It did not however in- have helped. Nothing happened. invective from him heard by all clude . including 'this College is wasted On my first prac Mr Trewin, on people like you' and recog- Mr. Swan took that up though, hearing my former French teach- nising this was quite out of or- taking us one foggy Saturday er at full voice, (and I know how der, I backed off until it stopped.

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There was an element of truth Out of 15, 3 of us got Condition- return on investment was not there, but I had realized by then al Certificates, 1 resigned in the high, but I guess those CC's that if 'teachers were made and first year, one died and one was made a point for someone. not born', I at least had a fighting called up and did not teach. Our chance to qualify for that Teach- Mature Age student went back to Each of us can now tell our sto- ers Certificate and get my ticket the army. Of the others I know ry… out of teaching. little. So for a small group, the To be continued next edition

LESLIE GORDON YOUNG - Mervyn Keith Olsen (1963‐64)

Gordon came to Wagga in 1948 was happening in the world. and also ready to see the current be- import of historical studies in Gordon made this effort because present day society and its rele- he believed strongly that every vance to Christian thought. He part of human knowledge is a was, therefore, one who tended part of God's world and that we to drive a fairly sharp division can learn of God in action in the between students who were writings of atheists as well as in ready to think and also respond learned commentaries. to (or at least consider) the im-

The following comments by portant things of life and those some of Gordon's colleagues who rejected or avoided any show that he certainly enjoyed commitment".

his lecturing and at the same Mr Michael Smith says that Gor- lieving that God had called him time was ever provoking his stu- to be a History lecturer at the don "liked the students to re- dents to think about life and spond and to become involved in Wagga Wagga Teachers' Col- evaluate their own reasons for lege. Gordon says he "was keen a discussion in which they had to living. take a position and defend it with to be the very best lecturer possi- ble, to stand strong for God and A student once said to Dr Paul facts or evidence". let the chips fall where they Whiting concerning Gordon: Because he desired student par- may". "He makes you think, doesn't ticipation Gordon protested

he?" Paul, reflecting on this, says when mass lecturing was intro- He worked hard over the years "I think that was always Gor- whilst at Wagga to improve his duced at the College. He much don's aim as a lecturer. He was preferred working with students own educational qualifications. deliberately provocative, his In 1951 he gained a Master's De- in groups of thirty or fewer. views often tendentious, and stu- gree from Sydney University for dents either loved him or hated "Nevertheless", says Michael his dissertation about Governor him for it. He certainly enjoyed Smith, "he was able to ensure Bourke. Then in 1955 he com- lecturing when I knew him - and that as many as two hundred stu- pleted the studies necessary to I believe it was both the oppor- dents were fully involved all the gain the Diploma of Religious tunity to present the material lecture hour. He would nominate Education from the Melbourne from his considered (and often as many as five students every College of Divinity. distinctively Christian) perspec- few minutes to summarise, or

For his first fifteen years at Wag- tive and the opportunity to chal- respond, or tell of their reading ga Gordon spent a great deal of lenge students about their atti- (which was required to be done time reading. He claims to have tudes and aspirations that ap- before the lecture). No student been as widely read as probably pealed to him”. went to sleep”. anyone in Australia. Mr David Dillon Smith puts it I think Michael Smith makes the

He regarded it as his duty to be this way: point well when he says of stu- paid, not to be a slave at giving "As to his lecturing, he was very dent feeling towards Gordon: lectures, but at knowing what much in command of his subject "Some students thought he was

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too rigid in his attitude and be- dents who had placed sport at was always subordinate to the haviour, tracing this to his well- the top of his list of priorities. process of reasoning and formu- known religious views and lation of opinions". strong participation in his Perhaps the following comments church”. by three students of different eras To illustrate this last point Paul summarise the general feelings tells how he received two essays That sums it up well. Almost of students towards Gordon's lec- back from Gordon with words to everyone, students and lecturers tures. the effect..."Mr Falconer, you do alike, came to link Gordon with not have to agree with the lectur- his religious faith and fervour. Mrs Fay Bevan, a student in the er to achieve high marks -11/20". 1954-55 session, says: Then, 'Excellent essay, Mr Fal- HISTORY AND SOCIAL "Gordon's history lectures were coner. I didn't agree with a word STUDIES METHOD informative, comprehensive, pre- you said - 19/20".

sented sometimes dramatically The following story illustrates and sometimes with satire that There's no doubting that Gordon well the intense desire Gordon was not always appreciated by continually sought to develop the had to communicate his message, all of the students. Some consid- powers of critical thinking in his and how much he gave of him- ered him very radical in his students. John Buckle is proba- self in doing so, as well as the viewpoint". bly accurate in saying that he clever way in which he frequent- "treated the students as thinking ly caught the attention of his stu- Rev. Bob Thomas, presently the adults rather than as 'super-high' dents. Paul Whiting recounts the Editor of "Presbyterian Life", students". event: who was a student in the 1962-63 "I well remember meeting him session, puts it this way: In response to the claim that his one afternoon as he came out of "Students either loved or hated style was 'overbearing' Gordon the large lecture hall. He had just Gordon Young, in roughly equal says: given what he called 'My annual proportions. He was quite over- "All lecturers must develop a lecture to first year students on bearing and most of us respected style, if they are to impact stu- Australian society'. He claimed him, even feared him. I, for one, dents with more than intellectual he was going home to bed, so would not go unprepared to his impressions. I chose to be force- much had he given of himself in lectures, for he had an uncanny ful, weighty, even crushing that lecture. As part of the lec- knack of striking those who knowing that it brings out the ture he had read from a brown were least prepared. His opening most in a student, especially the paper covered copy of the Liv- shot was to ask some hapless most attentive and if it frightens ing Bible version of Romans 1 student to stand before the class a few into paying more attention as a possible description of con- and tell the history of the world to what I hope is truth, so much temporary society. When the in two minutes. Few could man- the better. I had a job to do - for students agreed that it was a age it, least of all myself. His God, for the world, for children pretty good description, he re- lectures were intensely practical and last but not least, the hapless moved the cover and revealed and designed, it seemed, to strip student who needed to be knead- the source. away a student's inhibitions, rea- ed or needled into an active re- soning that if we would eventu- action to what was the best I had Perhaps one of the things that ally stand before a class, we to offer them. If I was totally many students still remember must first be able to stand before committed to as total a transmis- (including the present author) is our fellow students". sion of truth as I could give, the the questionnaire given out to least the students could give was students in their first year con- Rev. Paul Falconer, now a Bap- full attention. cerning their priorities in life and tist pastor, who was a student in their reasons for wanting to be the 1967-68 session, says: Whether they agreed or not was teachers. "I was impressed with his com- their responsibility before God, mand of subject matter, his abil- but if I stirred heart, mind and One student tells of how, several ity to keep attention (even if it conscience of at least some, their days after doing this exercise was because of fear of being response was consonant with Gordon expressed to the group caught out) and his over-riding their own personal gut reaction his utter scorn for one of the stu- concern that the subject matter to life.

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"My giving less data per hour he would find that his students If I brought out or speeded up than others, I defend, is by the were relaxed, felt free and their personal philosophy, that hope that my students gave more smiled. Gordon would get the was good. To get them out of (in data, emotion, effort and ex- students to analyse why they re- their rut and comfortable con- pression) than most other lectur- acted as they did. In this way he formity, I am glad to have ap- ers in the 'wordy' subjects (such was endeavouring to prove the peared 'overbearing' and still as English and Education) ex- point that teachers unconsciously would. But behind that there tracted". give important clues to their pu- was and is my conviction that pils about what they expect. Mrs truth is love in action and if I It is certainly true that Gordon's Margery Bonsor recalls Gordon battered unwilling minds or re- lectures were dramatic as well as saying, "The lesson starts when volted sensitive souls, I accept lively and interactive in style. He you walk into the room". To re- that, as James Dobson says, was a really good-humoured lec- inforce the point Gordon would "Love must be tough". turer and enjoyed sparring with sometimes have the students

his students. The great ambition practise walking into the room What would hurt me would be of some students was to achieve these accusations: (i) I never confidently". a 'victory' over him in debate. A cared if I hurt; (ii) I never meant "V.Y." (Victory over Youngie) Mrs Kath Johnson writes: "I real- to help students when I hurt was awarded to anyone who was ly learnt much about class disci- them; (iii) I was careless about fortunate enough to get the better pline from Mr Young and re- the truth; (iv) I was out to win of him in argument. This was member to this day his dramatic arguments for their own sake. duly recorded on the blackboard. portrayals of sarcastic, aggres- The truth is, I want to win for sive and emotional teachers' be- the sake of truth and for the sake Perhaps the thing many students haviour in a classroom. He of God". of all eras would most remember would pick up a chair and pre- that has proved to be practical in Mr Bob Drummond recalls one tend to swing it at a student, their teaching is Gordon's idea of throw a duster, or shout across incident that highlights the fact 'palm-card summaries'. It was that Gordon did not stand for the room at a student. He looked normal practice to have to pre- ridiculous and we quickly real- nonsense in his lectures. On one pare a palm-card summary of the occasion some students were ised that self-control was im- previous lecture and be ready to portant if we were to be good hastily attempting to consume a give it when asked at a moment's cinnamon bun in back seats dur- teachers". notice. ing Gordon's lecture. "They were More than most lecturers, Gor- soon put in their place", says Gordon had a unique way of get- don was really practical in the Bob - "Outside ! ... with a severe ting his point across. For in- lecture room. He realised from tongue lashing". stance, he would deliberately sore experience that teachers

enter the lecture room one day need to be able to relate confi- Some students have noted that menacingly, stiff, rigid, steely; Gordon's lectures were frequent- dently and lovingly to their pu- and the next day bouncingly, pils and so he did all he could to ly lacking in the transmission of cheerful, rollicking. As he did facts and data. One's lecture prepare his students in this re- this he would check the reaction gard. notes for Gordon were generally of his students. On the first day much less than those for other they stiffened, looked dull, and To be continued next edition lecturers. In response to this were ready to work only out of point Gordon replies: duty. On the next day, however,

TWO OF THE BEST YEARS OF MY LIFE - June Werner (1951-52)

After many years of ‘wanting to’ the best years of my life’. many others I knew came too, so and ‘knowing I should’ I have it was like a continuation of Coming from finally put pen to paper to say, school, with friends already made. ‘thank you to WWTC for two of I commenced College in 1951. So College life needs no explanation.

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It was just amazing and after so The next year we were off to there after 15 years. many years it remains so clear Kamloops. I went to ‘Arthur with names and experiences nev- Hatton’ and Bob to ‘A.E. Perry’. We then built a house at Valla er forgotten. Another great year going home Beach and started a huge garden, via Canada. Rail across Canada, whilst continuing our travelling. Briefly, I have had a wonderful ship to U.K., campervan and I did lots of casual teaching to career. Commencing with three home by ship. fund our travelling addiction. and a quarter years at Thirroul followed by 8 months in Lon- On my return I was appointed to Bob began to have serious skin don, backpacking, sightseeing, Wyalong then West Wyalong – a cancers and we came to Canber- just too much to cover. great town. Here we had two ra to be near 2 of our children. more children, Kim and Craig. He recovered for a while but de- Back in Australia, I spent a term veloped lung cancer and died at The school was great, the town th in Holbrook, then Barham where was great, as was tennis. home on 9 June last year, 2018.

I met Bob Werner!! Broken Hill followed, Bob went We consider we lived very fortu- Both of us then went to Carinda, to Railway Town School, as nate lives. We did not always which was a real eye opener. Teaching Principal and I went to travel together. I went to Ant- Then onto Macquarie Fields in Alma. The whole family loved arctica, then Bob went to Machu Sydney West. Broken Hill and its experiences. Pichu and so on. We both

trekked in Nepal and Morocco This was followed by Hazelton Next move, Bob was appointed and had many wonderful trips in Northern British Columbia as Principal of Macksville. It and cruises. accompanied by our two little was great to be near the Coast at boys, aged 6 and 4. The large last. I taught at Urunga, Nam- We both loved teaching and en- school was on an Indian Reserve bucca Heads and then to the new joyed moving to new schools overlooking the great rivers, Frank Partridge School. Macks- and new places; often difficult Skeena and Bulkey with the ville grew so much so Bob de- with 4 children but no regrets. Rocher de Boule Mountain look- moted himself and took deputy Now I need to plan how will I ing down on us. Amazing! position at Urunga. He loved go- spend my next 5-10-15 years? ing back teaching and retired

OUR MATE BURNSIE -Tom Richmond OAM (1958 - 59)

When Ron Burns, aged ten, Charge at Glennwarrin Public In 1977, he became Deputy Prin- marched in the Sydney May Day School, which is situated well cipal at Macgregor Primary procession, carrying a banner west of Port Macquarie. In School, a position that he held pleading for the release of his 1962, he accepted transfer to until 1986. In 1987, he taught in father, few would have guessed Bellangry Public School, again British Columbia, before return- about the future that lay in store as teacher in charge. This was a ing as Deputy Principal to Mac- for him. When he came to little further north but equally gregor in 1988. In 1989 to 1990, WWTC in 1958, few of his dor- isolated. From 1962 to 1968, he he served as Principal of Mac- mitory mates in Ipai would have was an assistant at Laurieton, in gregor Primary. known that he was the son of the Port Macquarie area but clos- William “Billy” Burns, the last er to the coast. Ron made a tremendous contri- person in Australia to be gaoled bution to school sport, especially for sedition. In 1969, he transferred to Down- in the ACT From 1981 to 1986 er Primary School in the ACT and from 1988 to 1990, Ron was Ron Burns, BA (ANU), Dip The school, at that time was part President of the ACT Sports As- Teach (WWTC) and holder of of the NSW system. In 1973, sociation. From 1982 to 1986, he the Australian Sports Medal Ron became a senior teacher and was President of the Australian graduated with us in 1959 and in in 1976 was promoted to Deputy Schools Primary Sports Associa- 1960 became the Teacher in Principal. tion. From 1983 to 1986, Ron

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was Vice-President of the Aus- We all recall that Ron was an Sports Administrators and from tralian Schools Sports Council. enthusiastic and talented sports- 2009 to 2018, he has served as a man in his WWTC days. Since Director of ACT Kidsafe. Ron’s sports administrative ca- leaving College, his participation reer blossomed rapidly and he rate has been strongly main- Over his career, Ron was heavily took leave without pay to be- tained. He played cricket for involved with coaching. From come the Director of the Mas- Burrell Creek in 1960 and 1961, 1962 to 1968, he coached Laurie- ters’ Sport Project in 1991-2 and for Wingham from 1962 to 1968 ton junior Rugby League teams. a Mature Aged Sports Consultant and for Canberra Teachers from From 1970 to 1990, he was to the Australian Sports Commis- 1973 to 1980. He played basket- coaching Downer and MacGreg- sion. He left teaching and from ball with Wingham Rouges from or teams in North Canberra com- 1995 to 1997, held the position 1960 to 1961, with Camden Ha- petitions. From 1978 to 1980, he of Deputy Chief Executive Of- ven from 1963 to 1968, with coached ACT PSAAA teams in ficer for the Confederation of Bank of NSW (Canberra) from the Australian Championships. Australian Sport, which is the 1969 to 1980 and with Wests He coached Softball at the national peak body for sport in Rugby Union Canberra Masters Boomerangs Club, including Australia. from 1981 to 1986. He played three world masters teams.

From 1998 to 2001, Ron was soccer with Wingham in 1960 Today, Ron retains his interest in General Manager of Sports In- and 1961 and made a comeback sport and is season ticket holder dustry Australia and from 2001 with Canberra Teachers from for ACT Brumbies. He is a sea- to 2003, he was the Chief Execu- 1981 to 1985. He played rugby son ticket holder for Canberra tive Officer for the 9th Australian league with Beechwood in 1962 Theatre and Australian Opera Masters’ Games. In the years and for Camden Haven from and enjoys film, travel, reading, 1995 to 2003 he delivered cours- 1963 to 1968. music, bushwalking, cycling es in Sports Administration, From 1962 to 1968, he was a (recreational) and gardening. He Sports Management and Event member of the Camden Haven is a passionate observer of the Management in a private capaci- Surf Life Saving Club. From political scene. Ron lives in ty for the International Commit- 1975 to 1986, he played squash Bruce, ACT with his wife, Gail tee’s Olympic Solidarity Pro- with West Belconnen. While in (Northey) in a relationship that gram through the Oceania Na- British Columbia, he played soft- started at College. tional Olympic Committees. In ball with the Teachers’ Club. 2004, he became Senior Project His old Ipai mates are proud of From 1964 to 1968, he played his achievements as an educator, Officer for Sport and Recreation, golf at the Camden Haven Club a sports administrator and a great ACT and in 2005-2006, he was and from 1978 to the present has bloke! Training Advisor to the Australi- played the sport at Belconnen an Chamber of Commerce and Golf Club. Industry. As well as playing From 2006 to 2009, Ron took on many sports, Ron was the General Manager’s position active in sports admin- for the Pacific School Games. istration outside the where he delivered a highly suc- schools systems. Fol- cessful event. lowing his retirement,

Honours came to Ron through he took on broader po- his involvement in school sport. sitions From 1995 to In 1984, he was awarded Life 2000, he was President Membership of the ACT PSSA of the ACT Chapter of and in 1986 he was awarded Life the Australian Associa- Membership of School Sport tion of Sports Admin- Australia. In 2000, he was istrators. From 1996 to awarded the Australian Sports 2000, he was Educa- Ron and Gail Burns ( formerly Gail Northey Medal. tion Director of the graduate of 1959 ) Australian Society of

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WWTCAA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS 2019 - Chris and Jenny Blake

Two WWTCAA scholarships Kerrie Harris (nee Wooden), actively involved in many organ- were awarded this year to Pat- from Temora, studied Education isations in her community. We rick Harris from Wagga Wagga at The Riverina Murray College feel she will make a valuable and Mandy Reid from Grenfell. of Advanced Education in the addition to rural education in 1980’s and is still Grenfell. There is a won- involved in derful story asso- Teaching in Wag- It was a great pleasure to meet ciated with Pat- ga. with both families at the scholar- rick Harris, one of This year Kerrie’s ship presentation in Wagga. the two students son, Patrick, who Both recipients were very appre- to receive The has a degree in Wagga Wagga ciative of the contributions of Commerce from the alumni to the scholarship. Teachers’ College Macquarie Uni- Alumni Scholar- versity, has re- Chris and Jenny Blake ship this year. turned to Wagga

and Charles Sturt Patrick represents Kerrie, Patrick and Pam Harris the third genera- University to tion of his family to study Edu- train as a teacher. What a family cation in Wagga Wagga and is a history! Three generations repre- descendant of a Teachers’ Col- senting three of the stages of de- lege graduate from the 1950’s. velopment of Education training in Wagga. Patrick’s grandmother, Pam Har- ris (nee Abberton), came from Mandy Reid is a mature age stu- Canowindra to attend Wagga in dent from Grenfell, having al- ready studied Nursing at CSU. 1957-58. She is now a Wagga Chris Blake, Pam Reid, Jenny Blake resident. Pam’s daughter-in-law, She is a mother of four who is

APPRECIATION WWTCAA SCHOLARSHIP 2019 - Patrick Harris

Dear Wagga Teachers College has Having a rich background in WWTCAA, created through my own future teaching with my Grandmother I would like teaching. I would also like to and Mother both being teachers, to sincerely thank my Grandmother, an I have strong aspirations for my thank you alumni of the Wagga Wagga own teaching to provide a quali- for selecting Teachers College, as she is a ma- ty and equitable education for all me as a re- jor reason why I want to become my students. cipient of a a teacher and provide the same WWTCAA Scholarship for the quality education that she pro- With my Grandmother as an ac- 2019 calendar year. vided for all her students. tive alumni of the Wagga Wagga Teachers College and my Moth- I cannot begin to describe how Being awarded the scholarship er being an alumni of the River- much this will assist me through will provide significant financial ina CAE I have strong ties to my studies. Knowing that there assistance for me during my full CSU. has been so many successful time study of a Bachelor of teachers graduating from the col- Teaching (Secondary) and allow Thank you all again for selecting lege, makes this scholarship an me to work reduced hours during me as a recipient for the scholar- absolute privilege to receive. My work placements, as well as en- ship. greatest aspiration now is to con- sure I can purchase all the re- Warmest Regards, tinue the legacy that the Wagga sources I require for my study. Patrick.

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APPRECIATION: WTCAA SCHOLARSHIP 2019 - Mandy Reid

Dear as I was not sure how I would firstly allow me to buy my very WWTCAA cope having so much time off own laptop. I do have an old members, I work without pay. desktop computer that has prov- would like en to be too slow and outdated to take this It was during my current role as for university work and I have opportunity a teacher’s aide that I realised been borrowing my father’s lap- to thank that I wanted to finish this top when I needed to complete you immensely for your support course, I wanted to have my own an assignment. It will also pro- during my last year of study. I class. I have gathered so much vide much needed financial re- acknowledge the significant in- information and different ideas lief when I take time without pay vestment that you, as alumni, that I want to implement with a from my current job to complete have made towards my future. class and I knew that I could not my two separate work place- There are not enough words to do that from my current role. ments. These work placements describe how grateful I am of That is why I have enrolled in will be away from my home your support. my final 5 subjects over 2 se- town of Grenfell and I will need mesters, this is the largest study to pay for childcare for my As you would be aware, this is load I have taken so far. I was youngest child. my last year of university, and determined, yet still worried, to perhaps the hardest year of all. I finish this year. I would also like to say thank have taken a while to complete you to Chris and Jenny Blake. the course as I could only enrol Then I was given the news that I My phone interview was very in as many subjects as my family had been selected as one of your relaxed. They were so easy to and I could manage. Some se- scholarship recipients. Your sup- talk to, that it just felt like I had mesters that was only one sub- port has given me that little extra known them all my life. ject and others I managed two incentive that I need. You will subjects, I have even completed help me to reach my final goal I am looking forward to meeting some subjects over the Christ- of becoming a teacher. For that, you at the scholarship ceremony mas holidays to try and get it I will be forever thankful. in Wagga in May and personally thanking you for making such a done. I had put off the two work Your monetary support will placements until this final year lasting impact on my life.

VALE: ROBERT HENRY [BOB] COLLARD, M.B.E. (1948-50) Debra Collard (daughter) on the completion of their train- ture in a country area and was ing. Bob passed away on the 19 attached to various schools for December, 2018, at age 91 the next 8 years. years. In 1963, he was appointed Assis- His first school was Drinane, 27 tant Principal of Nelson Bay miles NW of Dubbo. From there Central School and in 1967 he spent time at Warren , the transferred to Cartwright P.S. in schools of Dubbo and Eumunge- Sydney's SW as Principal. From rie. From there he went to the his next appointment at Lansvale Newcastle Area at Mayfield East East he went to Chester Hill and Tighes Hill Central, and in North. Matthew Pearce P.S. was My Father, Bob Collard, was a 1954, studied remediation with Bob's final school before retire- member of the Fresher's year of Professor Schonell at Queens- ment. land University. He returned to 1948-1950, where he met and From the outset, supported by married his dearly beloved, Olga Newcastle as the itinerant reme- dial teacher - the first of this na- Olga, Bob was very active in the

Page 11 community. Apart from his up his school, Chester Hill quest for prayer or help was rec- school duties, Bob spent many North. His approach was so in- orded in a special place in each unpaid hours helping students novative and successful that he child's book, which he faithfully achieve their potential in Maths was acknowledged by the Queen and diligently addressed before or Language or Reading. It for his ground breaking pro- the next week's lesson. These marked his lifetime: from teach- grams and work with refugees communications often took 2 ing migrants in the Newcastle fleeing the Vietnam conflict, by hours to complete. area to more recent pursuits in being awarded an M.B.E. community education programs. The Max Gardner Distinguished Bob valued talent, dedication Service award followed 12 years Mentoring others, be it child, and effort wherever it was found. of service to Prostate Cancer Re- colleague, cricketer or family For the Education Department he search and support for sufferers. member marked all Bob did. His worked to establish a Non-Sexist Educating Medical professionals children were often regaled with Policy in this area of Public Ser- in the field at conferences on the mantra: vice. Responding to feedback how to treat a person, not just a "I shall pass through this world and discussion with the local disease was a particular concern. but once. Any good, therefore, high schools, he helped instigate that I can do or any kindness I the smooth preparedness and As a WWTC/Charles Sturt Uni- can show ...., let me do it now. transition, educationally and so- versity Alumni and president of Let me not defer or neglect it, cially, of year six students into that Association, Bob worked in for I shall not pass this way their high school years. During the successful establishment of a again." this time, he and "the two Alans" teaching degree Scholarship as they were fondly referred to, Fund at that institution.

As School Principal, many after- developed the first series of school hours were spent counsel- Of course, throughout his life, mathematics books, Signposts to cricket was a constant - playing, ling parents and families in diffi- Success, which furthered this culty. Bob demonstrated great umpiring and mentoring, for idea. which he was also acknowledged skill in analysing an issue, get- ting to the fundamentals and de- Bob's retirement from his teach- by awards and Life Membership ing profession to the Central of CCCUA. veloping a solution. This really came to the fore during the polit- Coast enabled him to assist in Bob Collard was much loved, ically volatile period in the sev- the SRE education at Holgate valued and respected by col- enties "Refugee Crisis". Amid Public. He taught 65 children per leagues, parents, students, and very strong community re- session, yet had them all eager the communities in which he sistance and not a little political and excited at his entry into the served. Although he will be sore- resistance, he completely opened classroom. Many a private re- ly missed by many more than the

A DESIRABLE OPPORTUNITY - Ruth Geekie (Jordan) (1958-59)

The opportunity to enrol at Wag- Ruth grew up in Nowra and Pe- a PhD. He taught in Primary and ga Wagga Teachers’ College in ter in Thirroul on the NSW Secondary Schools followed by the late 1950s was very desirable South Coast. I doubt we truly many years as a Senior Lecturer for Ruth Jordan and Peter Geek- valued our good fortune in being at Wollongong University. ie. given supervised accommoda- tion at WWTC and a variety of Ruth taught mostly Primary clas- A scholarship which provided lectures from 9am till 5pm, or ses before spending five years as free training with housing on site the chance to participate in sport- the ESL and Multicultural librar- and three meals a day, created no ing activities and choral and dra- ian with the Wollongong Catho- hardship for our parents and as matic productions. lic Education System. Then she well, gave us some cash to spent seventeen years teaching in spend. At WWTC we secured Peter enrolled in an elective the area of Special Needs. Ruth lifelong friends as well as a hap- linked to the University of New eventually acquired her BA and, py marriage which is now in its England and subsequently ac- thanks to a scholarship from the 59th year. quired several degrees, including Department, a MEd from UTS.

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Peter’s studies took the Geekie with Joycelyn Donovan (now 70th Celebrations and were de- family overseas for several peri- Humphries), Robin de Brouwer lighted to reconnect with other ods in England and one year’s (now Legge) and Lachlan Farrell Kumbu lasses, Carol Wayne (now residence at the Indiana Universi- who has lived in Canada for Tankard) and Robin, and Kumbu ty in Bloomington. Ruth attended many years but returns to Austral- chaps, Lachlan, Kelland Har- some courses at Bloomington ia annually. We regret that anoth- dingham and Michael Bonner. with the assurance that when she er friend, Betty Probert (Fahy) finally enrolled she’d be given passed away recently. Our WWTC is now gone physi- credit for what she’d already cally but it will always remain in done. Enrolment never occurred We revisit the past with pleasure our memories. Thank you, Wagga but the generosity of the lecturers and are grateful for the journey Wagga Teachers College, for the is memorable. that our experience at WWTC has opportunities with which we were permitted us to undertake. Re- provided. We value our 60 year friendship cently we attended the WWTC

VALE: MARGARET ELIZABETH GARDINER (1953-54) Dr Henry Gardiner I write on a sad note to report Wedding Anniversary in Calva- ra after a long illness in the first that my beloved wife of more ry Hospital. week in April. His funeral was than 62 years, Margaret Eliza- in his home suburb of Ainslie beth Gardiner (nee Claridge), of Margaret and I came to WWTC and several fellow students from Section 2 and 7 1953-1954 re- a couple of years after leaving our year were able to attend. spectively, passed away after a . She taught very long and difficult illness on in Infants Departments in the Margaret Elizabeth Gardiner 12th February last. Bankstown area before resigning 1934-2019; and Noel Ivan to start our family in 1961. Haberecht, 1936-2019. Margaret had been very frail for From 1967 she went back teach- the past three years and because ing as a casual, by then in Wag- of severe walking problems was ga primary and secondary not able to leave our home or the schools, but with hospital since the week-end of her brand new that wonderful 70 year Re-union B.Ed from Riv- Dinner. Indeed within a few erina College days of the Dinner, she spent topping off her four weeks in Calvary Hospital diploma conver- Wagga and spent a large part of sion. the remainder of the year con- stantly in and out of hospital un- On another sad til her final admission in late No- note, my Best vember 2018. Man, Noel Haberecht, also In the first weekend in January 1953-1954, Noel Haberecht, Henry Gardiner, Margaret Gardiner this year we celebrated our 62nd died in Canber- Faye Davis (nee Alderman), WTC 52-51 FRS

IN MEMORIAM

Colin Swan (1948-50) died on Stan Melville passed away just Rugby Union for Wagga or 16 November 2018. Our before last Christmas aged 79. Teachers’ College. A very spe- thoughts and sympathies go to He loved all the news from Wag- cial man and greatly missed. his wife Elizabeth. ga Wagga Teachers’ College and Denise Melville (wife) Lesley Forbes his time teaching. Also playing

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REMINISCING Rob Hughes IPAI RESIDENT

As I cautiously negotiate the winding path of life, I trust the way will not be strewn with conflict, pain or strife. My efforts, through each twist and turn, are robust and sincere. And so far, luck and sweat have made most worries disappear.

Education, graduation, occupation, fun, Wondrous, worthwhile goals and tasks, great prizes to be won, Relaxation, recreation, procreation, pleasure; So much for just one man to undertake, by any measure.

Memories of school days shine with friendships and support, Then I studied education, and for forty years, I taught. Those who thrive in this vocation know it brings immense delights, Brian McGowan (1957-58) My hard work earned promotion, and a rise to greater heights. Taught at Tocumwal Primary, Shepardstown Small School, Alongside work in fourteen schools, I’ve had a thrilling ride Nowra High School, completed As a professional musician, earning income on the side. B.A. as External Student of Ar- A muso’s life’s exciting, playing dives and places grand, midale University, transferred to This, for me, began aged eight, in the school recorder band. English/History at The Entrance High School, then to History Retirement is a lot of fun. I’ll not be a white elephant; Master. Elected Member for Five years as outback touring guide; right now, a civil celebrant. Gosford NSW Government No-one knows what lies ahead. You may guess, but you can’t know where he served 12 years, during it, which time lobbied and achieved I’m planning my next venture now… an avant-garde bush poet? major Public Works in infra- structure, environment and edu- Five lively, much loved grandkids keep my wife and me awake cation. At the end of his Parlia- When they join us for sleepovers while their parents take a break. mentary term elected as Council- For our further entertainment, new sensations and diversion, lor on Gosford City Council un- We enjoy good times together on a boat or van excursion. til his death in 1994. Brian As I reminisce on life’s adventures, looking back through the years, McGowan Bridge, at main entry I recall so many joyful times, and happily, few tears. point to Gosford, named to com- You speculate in days of youth, “Do dreams ever come true?” memorate the work he did for the My experience of life gives this assurance… Yes, they do! area. His widow still lives on the Bob Hughes Central Coast. © 2016 Margaret McGowan (wife)

MEETING DATES - WWTCAA INVITE: WWTCAA LUNCHES

ALL WELCOME Members of the WWTCAA are invited to join WWTCAA quarterly meetings are held at with other members on 3rd Tuesday of February, 11.00am at Teachers Federation House, 37 Reser- May, August and November for WWTCAA voir St, Surry Hills. Lunch. Meet 12 noon , Meeting Dates for 2019: at 12 February 2019 (AGM) City Extra, Circular Quay. 14 May 2019 13August 2019 Phone Winifred Wilcox 02 9580 5916 12 November 2019

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The Wagga Wagga Teachers Alumni Association

KEEPING THE SPIRIT ALIVE IN 2018 TO SECURE THE FUTURE

IMPORTANT NOTICE WWTCAA CONTRIBUTIONS 2019 MEMBERSHIP CONTRIBUTIONS Surname ______To ensure the continued financial viability of the Former Name ______Wagga Wagga Teachers Alumni Association the following membership contributions and ser- Given Name ______vices will apply from 1 January 2019. Address ______a) Electronic Membership: ______Postcode ______Receive all information and three (3) copies Years at College ______to ______of Talkabout electronically. $10.00 p.a. Home Phone ______b) Standard Membership: Mobile ______Receive all information and three (3) printed copies of Talkabout via standard mail. Email ______$20.00 p.a. CONTRIBUTIONS In addition to either Electronic or Standard Electronic Membership ($10) ______Membership members may choose to make ad- ditional contributions from the options below. Standard Membership ($20) ______Donation to Alumni Projects ______c) Additional Contributions: i. general donation to the Alumni for ongoing Donation to Scholarship Fund ______projects e.g. digitise archives from $10.00. General Donation ______

ii. specific donation to the WWTCAA Schol- TOTAL CONTRIBUTION 2019______arship Fund from $10.00. Make cheques payable to: WWTC ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Opposite is a contribution slip for 2019. Send Your Contribution To: Secretary WWTCAA 12 Silky Oak Rise KEW NSW 2439

ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER CONTRIBUTIONS To credit of TALKABOUT (Including Photos ) WWTC ALUMNI ASSOC Commonwealth Bank Casula NSW Please email contributions for Talkabout to BSB: 062 329 A/C No: 10073789 [email protected] Reference : Member's First Initial, Surname and Or mail to first year at college e.g. BForbes65 The Secretary WWTCAA Please send a Remittance Advice to: 12 Silky Oak Rise email: [email protected] KEW NSW.2439

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Volume 22 No 2 September 2019

September 2019 September Volume 22 No 2

If undeliverable please return to: POSTAGE The Secretary WWTCAA PAID 12 Silky Oak Rise KEW NSW 2439 AUSTRALIA

Change of Address

If your address details are incorrect please email [email protected]

Or

The Secretary WWTCAA 12 Silky Oak Rise KEW NSW 2439

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