Togetherthe journal of the Women’s college within the university of

volume 25 / number 1 / winter 2009 / contents CHAIR notes PRINCIPAL points

2 Chair notes & Principal points hen were you last aking on the role of principal inspired? As Chair of The of this illustrious institution 3 WATSA matters Women’s College Council has been exciting and 3 Mentoring spotlight W I am regularly reminded T challenging. Many aspects 4 Louisa Macdonald Oration that our College provides continual of the position are familiar to me – opportunities to be inspired, and I’m sure assisting the transition of students into 4 Alumnae honours our students and alumnae relish these the academy, enabling senior students to 6 Profile: Nhi-Y Pham moments of inspiration as much as I do. connect with the professional world and The recent Louisa Macdonald Oration providing a sympathetic hearing when 6 Fresher Revue was a superb example – an inspiring the going gets tough – but The Women’s 7 Main renovations oration from alumna Jane Diplock, College has given me new perspectives 7 Gillian Dunlop portraits Chairman of the New Zealand Securities on these activities. Commission and Executive Committee It has also opened up new worlds for 8 Music scholarships awarded of the International Organisation of me. As an academic one step removed Securities Commissions. 9 2009 freshers from the academic world, I am connected 10 Alumnae President’s news Later that evening we were inspired to the students and their studies but by the achievements of alumnae distanced from their classrooms and 10 Writers’ Festival whom we honoured with our second curricula. On the other hand, through 11 Best friends: Pat Milthorpe biennial alumnae awards. The continual The Women’s College I am intimately and Helen Brown achievements of our students across connected to the everyday lives of a 12 Vale academic, cultural and sporting activities, group of extraordinary young women in the difference they make to others in ways that give me deeper insights into 14 Staying connected: so many ways – this generation is truly students’ learning and social needs. news from our alumnae inspiring. There is also the reciprocal Similarly, the connections I have made 15 Women’s Education inspiration which occurs between mentor with parents, alumnae and friends of and mentee, which can be so vital to the The Women’s College have enabled me Worldwide Conference future professional life of our students. to appreciate more fully the richness of 16 Events calendar College life and the myriad ways (some If you haven’t been back to The Women’s intangible) in which our community College lately, or even if you have, I’d like contributes to the success of our to offer you an open invitation to come students. No doubt I will continue to learn back, even for just one event, and see if and be amazed by the achievements of you can be inspired or inspire others. The our residents. benefits of being part of an inspirational community are freely available and Like The Women’s College, this journal tangible for all involved. has recently acquired a new face. It seemed an opportune moment to rethink Lucinda Warren its design and readability. I hope you Chair, The Women’s College Council approve. Please feel free to let us know what you think. Jane Williamson Principal, The Women’s College

2 / The Journal of The Women’s College / Mentoring WATSA spotlight matters

Launched in 2008, The Women’s The Women’s College College’s mentoring program has gone Aboriginal and Torres from strength Strait Islander Alliance to strength. (WATSA) has gained This year almost 60 students momentum (and requested a mentor in the field they hope to enter after graduating. funds), as the group Each of these students, in third year or above, has been matched works towards two with a professional mentor drawn largely from the College’s diverse important outreach alumnae body. trips planned for the We have mentors in law and medicine, nutrition and food winter break. technology, foreign affairs and international aid, a large public art gallery, a boutique private gallery, public relations and publishing, journalism, television production, human resources, management WATSA President, consulting, and a whole lot more. third-year arts student Jessie Kelly It’s a testament to The Women’s College that its alumnae and friends are more than willing to support our students in this way.

n 7 April 2009 the College to manage the bureaucracy of getting to It is hoped that these mentoring hosted a fundraising breakfast university, life in Sydney, and life at The relationships enable students to which raised almost $10,000. Women’s College. make the most of their capabilities Former Women’s College O WATSA President Jessie Kelly hopes the and potential as they enter their student Dr Marlene KONG (1991–94) chosen professions. addressed 150 guests on the state of camp will cement the idea in the girls’ minds Indigenous health and the vital importance of coming to the and of education in redressing a critical living at The Women’s College. “There’s a lot If you are interested in becoming imbalance in Aboriginal communities – of talent and ability in these communities – if a mentor to one of our students, sentiments WATSA strongly supports. we can support some of these girls to come please contact Vice Principal to our College it would set them up to run Dr Tiffany Donnelly by email: Students on the outreach trips, covering the world! The range of interaction we have [email protected] Dubbo, Burke, Brewarrina and Walgett, and here broadens one’s scope of understanding or by phone: 02 9517 5005. a second visit to Cape York, Lockhart River in a way that I’ve never seen elsewhere.” and Cairns, will work with communities to seek out potential young women leaders to If you’d like to contribute your skills or make attend a fully funded week-long leadership a donation towards the WATSA project, camp to be held at The Women’s College please contact Jacinta Walpole by email: in August. The focus of the camp will be [email protected] ‘Pathways to Uni’ – encompassing ways or by phone: 02 9517 5008.

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 3 Louisa’s legacy

The fifth Louisa Macdonald Oration was presented on 29 May by Jane Diplock AO, on the subject of women’s achievements and potential in the global arena. The oration is held biennially to honour The Women’s College’s founding principal.

s Diplock spoke about a ALUMNA AWARD number of outstanding Alumnae honours Two alumnae were given special awards, women associated with the Ms Vicki Brooke (Monkton) and several others honoured at the Louisa College who have been an BA(Hons) GradDipArtsMgt M Macdonald Oration Dinner. Dr Janet Occupation: Business owner, inspiration in her own career, including the McCredie and Ms Cassandra Kelly were Governor-General Ms Quentin Bryce AC, museum and arts consultant given alumnae awards in the open and NSW Governor Marie Bashir AC, CVO, Years at The Women’s College: 1962–65 young alumna categories respectively, medical trailblazer Janet McCredie, Recent awards: Life Membership of in recognition of their achievements and scientists Anne Green and Climate Action Newcastle, Inc. (2009) and service to their professions and Elizabeth Dennis. in recognition of her “unwavering efforts the community. to advance the climate movement locally “They had the imagination to perceive their This was only the second time these through the formation of Climate Action work in a global setting, to pursue it across awards have been bestowed; the first were Newcastle” international borders, to go to work in the presented to Her Excellency Professor world, rather than merely in one small Dr Janet McCredie AM Marie Bashir and Sally Auld at the Louisa corner of it” she said. “These women have MBBS MD DMRD FRCR FRANZCR Macdonald Oration Dinner in 2007. This seen themselves – and expected others to Occupation: Diagnostic radiologist and year a special posthumous award was see them – as global citizens.” medical researcher given to Anna Donald. Years at The Women’s College: 1953–55, Ms Diplock’s own career has a similarly Out-student 1957–58, Senior Student 1956 stellar profile. In 2001 she was appointed The nominees Recent awards: AM (1994), Life Member Chairman of the New Zealand Securities of Faculty of Medicine, University of Commission, and she also chairs the YOUNG ALUMNA AWARD Sydney (1996), Fellow of the University Executive Committee of the International Mrs Cassandra Kelly of Sydney (2008) Organisation of Securities Commissions, BEc(Hons) an organisation whose 109 jurisdictions Ms Caroline Pidcock Occupation: Founder and CEO of Pottinger regulate more than 95 per cent of the BSc(Arch) Arch(Hons) Years at The Women’s College: 1991–96 world’s capital markets. Occupation: Architect, business owner, Recent awards: Winner Australian Business director Award for Recommended Employer (2007, Years at The Women’s College: 1982–83 2008), nominated for 2009 Recent awards: Winner Small Commercial Ms Sally Mitchell Sustainability Award for Resource 88, BEng(Chemical)(Hons) BCom Building Product News & Environ Products Occupation: General Manager, and Services (2008); Winner Blacket Global Markets and Group Treasury IT, Award for Shellharbour Workers’ Club Commonwealth Bank (in association with Richard Goodwin Years at The Women’s College: 1993–96 Architects) Royal Australian Institute Recent awards: Premium Financial of Architects NSW Chapter (2004) Services – Midas Award (Commonwealth Bank) Oration4 / The Journal of The Women’s College / Clockwise from top left: Young alumna award winner Cassandra KELLY (1991–96) with Phillipa Kelly; 2007 young alumna recipient Sally AULD (1990–93) with fifth-year arts/law student Kristy Kennedy; recent and current students (left to right) Fiona WALTER (2004–07), Jacqueline MARTIN (2005–07), Edwina Tidmarsh, Erin Holland and Harriet Dixon-Smith; Jane DIPLOCK (1968–69 and 1975–77) and Phillip Meyer; past senior students (front) Jane OAKESHOTT (1979–83), Jane Diplock AO, Mary Walker (GHANTOUS 1975–78), (behind) Lucinda WARREN (1984–86), Elizabeth ELLIOTT AM (1975–78), Judy Anne EDWARDS (1982–85) and Carolyn GAVEL (1984–88).

Oration / The Journal of The Women’s College / 5 Nhi-Y gains new heights

hi-Y Pham first encountered Research Society’s Prize for Economics 1. The Women’s College when The Women’s College also awarded her its in 2006 she was selected College Scholarship and the Lorna Gertrude N to attend the UBS Young Webb Prize. Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA). In April this year, Nhi-Y was selected as The annual YWLA, hosted by the College, one of a four-person team to represent is attended by 50 year 11 students, chosen the University of Sydney at the University from state high schools in NSW, Victoria of Washington’s Global Business Case and the ACT. The week-long program Competition, an annual international is designed to develop their leadership event that brings together undergraduate skills and expose them to careers in the university students from 12 countries. The world of business and banking. Nhi-Y was teams compete in a fast-paced assessment encouraged to attend by her principal at of a challenging business case study and Sefton High School in Sydney’s western are required to make recommendations suburbs. He spotted her leadership within 48 hours. potential, and she thereby discovered “It was a pretty intense 48 hours, but an the College. amazing bonding experience,” Nhi-Y said. “Fresher Revue was on during YWLA week “Our team – Jack Lin, Quentin Rares, and there was always something fun to do Johnny McCoy and I – were quickly able at College,” says Nhi-Y. “One of my most to identify our strengths and weaknesses. distinct memories was attending formal Our coach was very supportive, as was dinner and seeing the community and the the Faculty of Economics and Business. support networks – I met a great bunch They sent us off with Sydney University of girls that week.” hoodies and gifts for the other teams. The people were amazing – really ambitious Nhi-Y finished school with a 99.95 UAI and professional in the competition, but score and has continued this stellar a real camaraderie developed during the academic performance at University. She social events.” achieved a high distinction average in the first year of her combined commerce/law Nhi-Y certainly exemplifies our vision to be degree, was included on the Dean’s List the leading college for women who shape of Excellence, and shared the Economic the future!

Freshers showed their talents this April in the annual Fresher Revue performance, held in the Menzies Music and drama Common Room. This year’s script, co-written by third-year students at Women’s and St Paul’s colleges, was titled Hansel & Gretel and The GingerWes House. A spoof on college life, the play portrays sensitive Paulines, evil Wesleyans, and wildly intellectual Women’s College students. Another annual dramatic event is the specially staged play for Mother Daughter Dinner each May. This year Phoenix Players put on Hating Alison Ashley, a hilarious feel-good play- within-a-play set at a year six camp, Jocelyn Gulliver, Rong Xin Choy, and exposing a few revelations about Sanjana Mahtani and Romy Fung mother-daughter relationships. perform in Fresher Revue Plans are afoot for Phoenix players to produce Pride and Prejudice in Semester Two, a joint venture with St Paul’s College.

6 / The Journal of The Women’s College / Picture perfect

Main restored

nder-floor heating and carpet Over the past year The Women’s for 40 rooms, 44 antique style College has displayed two specially white light fittings, 70 new bed commissioned portraits by artist and U ensembles, 150 power points College alumna Gillian Dunlop ... This was just part of the shopping list for (1982–84). The pictures show two refurbishment of the Main wing, completed former principals of the College: over the summer months in time to welcome Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce the return of students in Semester One. AC (1997–2003) and Mrs Yvonne Rate AM (2003–08), and now take It was a huge project which saw Main pride of place over two of the historic shrouded in scaffolding and the College staircases in the Main wing. ringing to the sound of jack hammers as an army of tradespeople treated the historic Ms Bryce’s portrait was unveiled building to a much needed makeover. in June last year, just prior to her investiture as Governor General of An important part of the project was the Australia. The painting of Mrs Rate restoration of all the Edwardian desks, (above) shows her with her two dogs, dressing tables, and chests of drawers Monty and Lizzie, much beloved of that have been cherished by generations the College students. of students. The project of restoring these pieces was undertaken over the past 12 During a recent visit to Sydney, months by alumna Georgina Williams Mrs Rate said of her time at College: (TOM: 1981–83) whose business Major & “I’m particularly proud of the outreach Tom in St Peters uses traditional materials initiatives taken up by the students such as shellac and wax, and traditional within Indigenous communities, and cabinet-making techniques in their their energy and eagerness to attract furniture restorations. funding for their projects.” The results are stunning. Resident Fiona She also mentioned the creation of Copeman (third-year engineering/arts the alumnae awards as a memorable student) says it really feels like home: highlight. “College has been “I call my room my palace and uni friends instrumental to these women in the don’t believe how lovely it is until they formation of their lives, values and feel the underfloor heating and see the careers, and being recognised by bathrooms. I sometimes lie on my their peers is such a thrill for them.” floor to study!”

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 7 Our three new music scholarship recipients Fresh seemed destined to study at the sydney Conservatorium perspectives of Music from their earliest childhood. We’d like to introduce them.

Suzanne Sherrington, Rosalie Baldwin and Anne-Marie Johnson

Suzanne Sherrington Rosalie Baldwin Anne-Marie Johnson Suzanne’s father Robert Sherrington From the very beginning, Rosalie was keen You could be forgiven for thinking Anne- suggested Suzanne learn to play flute to be different. In her junior school band Marie Johnson has a musical ‘pedigree’. when she was seven. She has played there were no girls in the brass section and Both parents are in the Melbourne ever since. “Dad never forced us; he she wanted to be the first. “I played flute Symphony Orchestra (her mum plays violin encouraged us,” says Suzanne (her and then transferred to the dark side when and her dad cello), and Anne-Marie was brother plays clarinet and trombone). I heard the trumpets blasting behind me. only three when she began asking if she “Dad always says if you’re going to play, I thought: ‘I want to play one of those!’” could learn violin. It’s also no surprise that you should strive to do it well.” her elder brother plays cello and younger She started trumpet when she was 12 and brother flute and cello. “Sometimes we Suzanne grew up in Bellingen in northern says that from the time her school band play string quartets together at home to feeling somewhat master gave her the idea of being in the practise our sight reading and just for fun,” musically isolated. She set her sights on Sydney Symphony, music has been her Anne-Marie says. the Conservatorium early, having made chief interest. regular visits to Sydney to play for Schools Anne-Marie made the decision to move The Conservatorium was a major goal from Spectacular, the State Wind Ensemble to Sydney when her violin teacher, Alice an early age, and living at College was a and music camps. She also sat AMEB Waten, was appointed to the staff of the natural extension – Rosalie is from Camden (Australian Music Examinations Board) Conservatorium last year. Up to that point and would much rather spend her time exams at the Conservatorium every year she was still deciding between a career in practising than making a long commute since primary school, which further music, languages or creative writing. whetted her appetite to study there. to the Conservatorium each day. Anne-Marie feels that College has given Coming to College has been a fruitful Why did she choose The Women’s her a soft landing in Sydney: “It’s made the experience for Rosalie. She formed a brass College? “My mum was there in 1977; her transition of moving out of home so much quintet which has performed on several second year at university. It made a huge easier – you’re never alone and becoming occasions, specialising in Bach and Brahms. difference as she’d spent her first year part of the community has been effortless.” living very unhappily in a flat. So it was her “One of the students at St Paul’s College suggestion that I come to the College, and wrote a special trumpet composition for me, In September Anne-Marie will tour I’m so glad I did. I love the music practice which we’ve played and recorded at the Switzerland, and Austria with the rooms, and it’s fantastic to have the older Conservatorium – the college network is Conservatorium Chamber Orchestra. Conservatorium girls around, as they help fantastic,” she says. Her favourite piece of music at the moment put things in perspective. That support is the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E is invaluable.” minor. “It’s unofficially dubbed one of the most loved violin concertos. It’s really fun to play – you can get really virtuosic and there are some beautiful melodies, technical fireworks and reflective moments.”

8 / The Journal of The Women’s College / Our 2009 freshers are an energetic and committed group …

Zoe Betar Siobhan O’Rorke Audrey Jean-Baptiste First-year education/arts student Zoe In addition to working on her arts/commerce Audrey Jean-Baptiste has the dubious Betar credits her brother as being degree, Siobhan O’Rorke teaches Ashtanga distinction of being the youngest fresher the most influential person in her life. Yoga one morning a week at College, at College. She turned 17 in Orientation “Despite having cerebral palsy my helping her fellow collegians iron out week this year, so will have to wait until brother has been able to surpass his their study knots. Siobhan acquired her 2010 before she can join her friends at disability – he completed his law degree yoga certification while on her gap year their weekly Wednesday night drinks. and is now a lawyer at Gilbert and in South Africa. The month-long teaching Tobin. He encouraged me to go to The course incorporated Buddhist philosophy, Audrey skipped a year in primary school Women’s College because he thought physiology and anatomy, and was held in and spent several years at school I would enjoy it – and he was right!” the bohemian town of Port Elizabeth. in Australia, away from her family in Noumea. So it was a logical step to Zoe was voted Fresher Representative Siobhan spent the second half of her gap return to Sydney for her commerce/ at College early in Semester One, a year in China. Having grown up in Hong science degree. “My parents wanted position she finds greatly satisfying Kong she was keen to keep her Chinese me to have a good balance between because it engages her with the whole language going, and it was during an eight- university, social life and sport, and fresher year and lets her express her month stint in China, studying at the Beijing they thought I could find that better peers’ ideas and opinions directly to University of Language and Culture, that a here in Australia.” the House Committee. chance encounter set her on the path to The Women’s College. She says being 17 hasn’t affected her Zoe, a member of the Bundjalung nation, social life as much as she thought – she entered the College on an Indigenous Siobhan met College resident Sophie Miller loves Wednesday nights when everyone Scholarship after spending Year 11 and who was in Beijing on exchange. Siobhan is out, and she can get some work done! 12 at St Scholastica’s College in Glebe. was considering doing her degree in Sydney Her aspirations? “I’d like to teach and and Sophie recommended The Women’s As well as being a gifted student, Audrey then go back to my old high school as an College. “It was a great stroke of luck” says is a talented swimmer. She was age Aboriginal Liaison Officer. There aren’t Siobhan. “Hong Kong is really multicultural, champion in New Caledonia at 15, and enough programs to encourage students and many people pass through so I’m good had the choice to pursue an international to stay at school in my community at making friends quickly.” swimming career, but decided to attend (Tweed Heads).” university instead. Siobhan decided that Australia gave her the She attributes the high drop out rate in best options as a study destination. “And it’s “A sports career can finish in two years 8 and 9 to the fact that kids “don’t sunny here!” she adds. “I chose commerce/ seconds,” she says, “and I wanted see how important school is. When I arts as a degree because commerce to come to Australia to study.” She see people who don’t get the same seemed practical and doing arts means I now competes in the Rosebowl opportunities as I’ve had, it inspires me can continue studying Chinese. It’s turned (intercollege sporting competition) to help. I believe that education is vital out to be a good choice because I also really for The Women’s College. for closing the gap.” enjoy the accounting!”

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 9 From the Alumnae President

Women’s College Writers’ Festival

Writing from the Self

The Women’s College Alumnae Committee is pleased to announce its inaugural Writers’ Festival on Saturday 22 August 2009 at our beautiful College. Alumnae are invited to help us explore the creative drive and celebrate our own writers. Topics covered will be the development of a manuscript from first draft to final publication and the role of editors and agents. Sessions will The Women’s College Alumnae President range from an inspirational workshop Merilyn Bryce with 2009 scholarship for young writers and readers, to panel holders: Georgina Tout, Susannah White, discussions featuring journalists, Anna Lawless (standing, left to right), and agents and publishers. Lisa Kennedy (seated) Speakers include:

Cath Drayton, literary agent his year began with a bang as Alumnae Scholarships in 2009. Our new and College alumna the planned refurbishments scholars are Lisa Kennedy, Anna Lawless, Judith Whelan, Editor, turned College into a building Georgina Tout and Susannah White. Those Good Weekend T site over summer. But the results continuing are Alice Ainge, Sophie McGrath, are worth all the dust and distraction – they Fiona McPhail and Kate Taylor. Kate McClymont, Senior Writer, were greatly admired by alumnae who took You can read about those who have Sydney Morning Herald and an impromptu tour at the first of this year’s already shaped or are shaping the future College alumna reunions – the Alumnae Morning Tea for on our new webpage: Alumnae Stories those who entered the College in 1969 or Chris Reid, Garden Editor, (www.thewomenscollege.com.au/blog). It before. The reunion was held on Saturday, Country Style will profile a different alumna each month 18 April 2009 with Rachel Grahame, Alison and we hope it will inform web visitors about A number of inspirational authors Holland and Helen Oates as ‘patrons’. the remarkable achievements, service and of children’s fiction, as well as Thirty alumnae attended, including a interests of our alumnae. Please do contact young writers, will share their large contingent from the 1950s and an us if you would like to suggest an alumna to personal stories. enthusiastic group from the 1960s. be included or wish to write a profile for us. A full program, including costs, is Reunions continue to be a constant and As part of our commitment to the wider available at www.thewomenscollege. much appreciated part of The Women’s University community we maintain our com.au/writers-festival.php College Alumnae (WCA) program. Recent strong relationship with the University’s leavers met on 20 May and the London Please email Jacquei Hicks on Alumni Council and Alumni Relations Office contingent will rendezvous on 12 July. Those [email protected] (ARO). Penny Cameron (WCA President staying at home should not feel left out, as for further information. 2004–07) is a member of the Alumni Council there will be a reunion lunch following the and on its executive board. I represent the AGM on 1 August while the much loved WCA at the regular Alumni Forums run by Festival themes: Wisteria Luncheon will be held on Sunday the ARO. Creative writing and young writers 20 September. We’re keeping in touch; please stay in touch Biographies and personal stories The College continues to nurture ‘women with us! The creative process who shape the future’ and thanks to the generosity of our alumnae and the College itself, we have been able to award eight Merilyn Bryce

10 / The Journal of The Women’s College / From the Alumnae President Best friends

Pat MILTHORPE and Helen Brown (HARVEY) met on the tram to Sydney University on Orientation Day in 1956. They have been friends ever since. Pat is a retired school teacher and Bride and bridesmaid: Pat and Helen in 1963 principal. She lives in Chewton, Victoria. Helen is former Deputy Mayor of Port Stephens.

Pat had been such an integral part of her life. While we were at College, Pat was in She also has a large family (five children), a relationship with a patrol officer who Hel and I were both from the country and and copes with all these hugely complicated wanted to take her to Papua New Guinea. didn’t know our way around – we asked things – I don’t know how she manages it. I was very worried about it. I thought she each other which tram stop to get off for should finish her degree so we could When Hel retired we took a trip to Tasmania. Sydney University! We were thrilled to work out our careers afterwards. I think It was great; we went to the north-western meet each other again at College. By the she took on board what we (her College wilderness and had a lovely time. Hel told end of first year we were solid friends. friends) all felt and she decided not to do everyone we met that I was her bridesmaid it. He was heart broken when she told I loved The Women’s College – we both 46 years ago! did. It was a fabulous and intellectually him, but we were all cheering! Whenever we meet again it’s as if we’ve fertile place. I remember once staying up When I had my third child Pat made never been apart – we still have the all night before an ANZAC day ceremony me come to Sydney and spend a night same depth of intimacy and unspoken – playing cards, talking and drinking with her – we went out to a play and to understanding. I suppose it’s a sort of ‘brews’ (tea and coffee). We used to have dinner. Pat was worried about me and shorthand. She’s my best friend. ferocious arguments over our brews it was a wake-up call that I shouldn’t about the existence of God and other immerse myself too much in family. Years philosophical questions. Helen later I went to stay with her in her mud- We both studied arts, English and brick house in Chewton. I was so sick I French. Hel was extremely bright, Pat and I were friends from the very first couldn’t even pack my bag – I had had interested in everything, and much more time we spoke to each other – we had so viral pneumonia and developed chronic prepared than I was to venture into the much in common and we both looked like fatigue. I just got on the train and had this University. I remember she participated in country girls. In our first year Betty Archdale wonderful time with her and she got me a Molière play and although I would have took in 19 country high school students, so over it – that’s the sort of thing we could loved to, I didn’t dare! She had bright Pat and I had that in common. I was very do with each other. lucky to have a room of my own. There were blue eyes and silky brown hair which Pat’s health is a terrible worry for me; was always a little bit longer than mine. three of us in Alley – one girl kept to herself she has a family history of emphysema. And she was very different from me – and the other kept going out, so I spent most Before we went on the Tasmania trip she I was more sporting and she was of my time with Pat in Main. We were both said she couldn’t walk very far – it was more intellectual. in Maples in second year, and that made us a terrible shock to find that she couldn’t even closer. Hel’s done some fabulous things during walk 50 metres. But her illness proved she her career. Through her work on the Port We had our strong disagreements – our has all the qualities I’ve always admired. Stephens Council she’s been involved first and only big row was over the fact She never gives up, she makes the most in many state-wide environmental that I chose philosophy and she chose of what she can do, and tries not to think committees which she reluctantly let go psychology, but we never fought again about about what she can’t – which I think is when she retired last year. She found those differences because we liked them in brilliant. It takes a lot of courage and the separation hard because the council each other. intelligence to do that.

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 11 Robin Bulman Anna DONALD In 1999 she co-founded the company (HUNTER: 1961–64) MBBS (1988–89) BA MBBS Bazian with Dr Vivek Muthu, as a mechanism for working with governments Vera Carter 1 February 2009 and private institutions to enable (GOW: 1940–43) BA Anna Donald was evidence-based health care. Anna DONALD a remarkable In 2007 Anna discovered that her breast (1988–89) BA MBBS young woman – an cancer, diagnosed four years earlier, had 1 February 2009 epidemiologist, returned. She confronted her terminal company director Patricia Henning illness with enormous courage, writing and specialist in (MASSIE: 1942–45) BA regular blog entries for the British Medical evidence-based medicine. She began her Journal on her responses to the disease. Pat Hirst career studying arts and medicine at the In one of her early entries, she noted that (BALE: College Tutor 1961–62) University of Sydney and lived initially at “having a life threatening illness is very AM MB BS Melbourne, FRCPA Wesley College. bad” but it can also be “a surprisingly Elizabeth Laurie As a student, she was active in the positive thing; it makes you concentrate (GAVEL: 1948–51) BA University of Sydney Union, becoming in a joyful sort of way on how to make 18 July 2008 President in 1987, the year before every moment count”. she came to The Women’s College. Patricia Love Anna was an active member of the Anna is remembered fondly by many (MILLS: 1939–42) BA DipEd College community during her time members of The Women’s College 25 March 2008 here, working as an academic tutor, community and, at the Louisa Macdonald Dinner and Oration on 29 May 2009, the Rosalind McKeon an associate senior resident and College was pleased to present a Special (SHAW: 1956–59) BSc DipEd providing mentoring support for other Acknowledgement of her life and work to 12 March 2009 students. In 1989 she was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship. her husband, Mr Michael Hall. Sarah Sheehan Sources: Peter Brew-Bevan, Good (1973) Anna completed her medical training Weekend 16 August 2008; Malcolm 20 March 2009 at , graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Brown, Sydney Morning Herald Sue Anne Watson in 1992. She was awarded a Kennedy 13 February 2009. (THYNNE: 1958–61) BA Dip Ed Fellowship, a Caltex Australian Women’s MPhil(Ed) Scholarship and a Menzies Scholarship 5 January 2009 in 1994, and declined a Fulbright Elizabeth Laurie Scholarship at that time because she had (GAVEL: 1948–51) BA sufficient funds. In 1996 she completed 18 July 2008 a Master of Public Policy at Harvard and then returned to Britain to take up Elizabeth (Betty) Rosemary Laurie a position as a lecturer at University attended New England Grammar School College, London. (NEGS) from 1941–47. In her final year she was both Dux and Senior Prefect. The field of evidence-based medicine As this journal went to print, She then completed her arts degree at was Anna’s particular passion and we learnt of the death of Sydney University, studying English, she became an internationally music and philosophy. Miss Val Street (Principal recognised expert in this area through 1981–89) on 1 July 2009. her publications and conference In 1953 she married Bruce Laurie. Their A full acknowledgment of presentations. She co-created two marriage was a long and happy one journals, Clinical Evidence for the British producing three children, Thea, Alex and her life and work will be Medical Journal and the Journal of David, and eight grandchildren. They provided in the next edition. Evidence Based Health Policy. made their first home near Mullaley, later

12 / The Journal of The Women’s College / moving to a grazing property just She is particularly remembered for her In 1988 she moved to Palmerston North outside Armidale and finally to the very entertaining Gilbert and Sullivan to study part time at Massey University Manilla/Tamworth district. productions by students and staff, as towards a master’s degree while teaching well as her stylish appearance. in the prison system. Her MPhil(Ed) Over a period of 40 years Betty was a was conferred in 1993. In 1994 she was member – and often secretary, treasurer It was while she was teaching at appointed a full-time tutor in the Human and president – of many organisations Cessnock High between 1946 and 53, Development Department at Massey. including the NEGS Old Girls Union, and during a weekend tennis match, NEGS Missionary Union, Presbyterian that she met Jack Milton Wallace Love She travelled to Canada, France, Norway Women’s Association, Manilla Branch (John Love), a solicitor in Newcastle. and Portugal to meet her research National Party, Manilla Red Cross, Manilla They married in 1951 and had two colleagues from around the world and CWA, Hallsville Red Cross, PROBUS and daughters, Julia and Anne. started work on her PhD on attachment Manilla Meals on Wheels. theory. She was three weeks short of Patricia’s enthusiastic, determined and handing in her thesis when she died She completed a number of technical creative spirit led her into voluntary work suddenly but peacefully on 5 January courses, including one in adult literacy, with intellectually impaired children and 2009 at home. after which she went on to teach psychiatric patients. reading and writing. She enjoyed She was enjoying the start of her She continued to inspire others by cryptic crosswords. retirement and was very actively involved becoming a teacher of lip-reading as with the Te Whare Akonga Open Learning At age 60 she obtained her private well as a croquet coach, leaving her Centre in Palmerston North as well as unrestricted pilot’s licence, becoming mark on many people’s lives. supervising some extramural students. Tamair’s oldest female student. Later Patricia’s granddaughter Lisa Kennedy As an adjunct to her studies she became in life she was involved in researching entered College as a fresher in 2009. concerned about the removal of six- family history. month old infants from their mothers within the prison system. She lobbied the Sue Anne Watson New Zealand government with data and Patricia Love (THYNNE: 1958–61) submissions and had the satisfaction of (MILLS: 1939–42) BA Dip Ed MPhil(Ed) seeing the law changed so children could BA DipEd only be removed at two years of age. 5 January 2009 25 March 2008 Through the wonders of Skype, she Sue’s early life in Patricia Hessel remained close to her three daughters Tamworth, NSW, Mills grew up in and grandchildren even as they spread with the loss of her Newcastle, where around the world. Just last year, at her 50 mother when she she attended year College reunion, she urged everyone was three years Newcastle Girls’ present to write their “narrative story” – old, set the foundation for one of her High School. As a student in the Faculty another of her passions – and promised passions later in life: attachment theory of Arts at Sydney University she resided to collate them for publication. She had in human development. at The Women’s College for four years. many plans. She came to The Women’s College on a She readily took up both academic Testimonial by Sue’s College friend Teachers College Scholarship to pursue and sporting challenges, serving on Bip Peken. an arts degree and obtain her DipEd. College committees and captaining the She taught, then travelled overseas and University’s First Grade hockey team returned home to marry New Zealand which led to her obtaining a University vet Peter Watson. For some years Sue Blue in 1942. was busy raising her three daughters – Following graduation with a BA DipEd, Elizabeth, Joanne and Fleur – and being she taught history and English at a chicken farmer, but returned to teaching Temora High School from 1943 to 46. whenever she was able.

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 13 Staying

News from some connected of our alumnae

Donation Account’, under the umbrella of the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal – to help young people pursue community development projects in rural Australia (see www.reinventingthebush.com). Rosemary Chatterley (MONK: 1962) Rosemary worked as a nurse in London and before moving to Ottawa, Canada. She is now retired and enjoying her four grandchildren. 70s Jane Oakeshott (1979–83) BA LLB DipEd Jane has returned to Sydney University after Nora Syed Abu Bakar (2005–06), Phoebe Loxton a stint working in executive recruitment, and (2003–05), Robyn Jones (2003–05), Kate Treloar (2003–05), Elizabeth Golland (2003–05) at the Louisa has been appointed Client Engagement Macdonald Oration dinner in May. Manager in the University’s new business initiative, Sydney Talent (www.sydneytalent. com.au). She has three teenage children. 80s James Rigney 40s (1981–90) BA MA GradDip(Lib&Inf Sc) Suzanne Hayes James was appointed Dean of Newcastle (JACOBS: 1943–45) BA London Cathedral in March 2009. He was previously Suzanne has retired after a career in Chaplain and tutor at Magdalene College adult education and broadcasting. She Cambridge. has worked in volunteer broadcasting in Jane Spring retirement, and recently moved to . (1985–87) BEc LLB In October 2008 Jane received an Honorary 60s Fellowship from the University of Sydney for Heather Buchanan services to rowing. (MAXWELL: 1960–62) BA Heather has retired as an office manager and teacher of modern history. She has 90s three children and eight grandchildren. Karla Morison (VENNELL: 1998–99) BAppSc Marg Carroll (Speech Pathology) (HAMILTON: 1966–67) BA M (Town Karla is working in Dublin, Ireland for and Country Planning) GradDip St Michael’s House, a service for children (Social Ecology) and adults with intellectual disabilities. Marg recently published Reinventing Her son Hugo was born in 2007. the Bush – inspiring stories of young Australians (ABC Books 2008). The book Priscilla Windeyer is dedicated to her Women’s College friend (1999–2001) BA(Econ) Jan Howe, who passed away in 2002 Priscilla has been living in New York for from a brain tumour. Marg has set up an the past four years, working for the Bank annual grant – the ‘Reinventing the Bush of America.

14 / The Journal of The Women’s College / Women’s Education Worldwide Conference

6–8 January 2010

Empowering Women: 00s The Economic Imperative Pallavi Agrawal Margaux HARRIS (2004–06) BEng (2003–07) BA(Hons I)/LLB The Women’s College is hosting the international conference for Pallavi is working as an environmental Margaux will attend Oxford University in Women’s Education Worldwide – an adviser as part of her three-year graduate 2009/2010 to read for a Master of Studies organisation of women educators with program for Woodside Energy. She in Film Aesthetics, a new interdisciplinary members in 51 countries. Female moved to Perth in February 2008 to take course in Oxford’s Modern Languages students are encouraged to attend. up the position. Department with French, English, music and philosophy, at St Anne’s College. Conference themes: Elizabeth Ames • Education in Australia/NSW – (2007–08) BA DML (French) MIntS Meg PARSONS devising ways to empower women. Elizabeth has started the graduate (2005–08) PhD • Women in education – empowering program in the Department of Foreign Meg graduated with her doctorate in our organisations and communities. Affairs and Trade in Canberra. History in June this year, and is working • Workplace environments – as an historian for the Waitangi Tribunal enhancing women’s educational/ Jacqui Brocker in Wellington, New Zealand. training equity outcomes. (2002–05) BA BInfo • Literacy and empowerment – Wen-Qin QIU Jacqui is working in university meeting the needs of all women. (2004–07) BCom Lib Studies administration in Cambridge, England, • Building expertise – facilitating and is writing a novel. Wen-Qin recently relocated to Macquarie empowerment through professional Bank’s Hong Kong office where she will Amy Brown and alumnae networks. be working as an analyst in the corporate (2005–08) BA(Hons I) • Empowering young women – finance division for the next two years. identifying new educational and Amy is working for the Department leadership pathways (youth strand). of Veterans Affairs in Canberra, in its Victoria TODD graduate program. In 2008 she won the (2001–05) BEc, LLB(Hons I) A social program including a cocktail inaugural student essay contest of the GradDip(Leg Prac) party, dinner, BBQ, publication launch, Society for Medieval Feminist Studies, Victoria is moving to Canberra to take up tour of Sydney and other events will accompany the conference program. based at Minot State University, USA. a position with the Directorate of Military Administrative Law with the Department Business involvement: Sarah Gavel of Defence. She will start her LLM at • satchel inserts (LINNEGAR: 2002–04) BA BCom ANU in 2010. • exhibition booths Sarah is Relationship Manager Corporate and Community Partnerships for Mission • sponsorship Australia. She was married in • in-kind support. March 2009. Sponsorship funds will be available Felicity Graham to help disadvantaged women come (2003-06) BA LLB to the conference. Our priority is to support women and female students Felicity recently accepted a job in Dubbo who live in regional or remote Australia working as a solicitor in criminal law for or in ‘third world’ communities. the Aboriginal Legal Service. For more details about sponsorship, contact Jacinta Walpole, Marketing and Fundraising Manager on 9517 5008 or email community@ thewomenscollege.com.au

Conference registration: Individual bookings can be made online at: www.thewomenscollege. com.au/wew-2010-conference.php

/ The Journal of The Women’s College / 15 E Alumnae AGM Wisteria Luncheon Saturday 1 August 2009, Sunday 20 September 2009.

vents with luncheon in the Main For alumnae who entered Common Room. The Women’s College in 1969 and before. Women’s College Writers’ Festival: 1979 Fresher Writing from the Self Reunion weekend Saturday 22 August 2009. (including surrounding years) Saturday 28 and Sunday Women in Law Dinner 29 November 2009 Friday 28 August 2009.

Sydney University Open Day calendar For details of all events, Saturday 29 August 2009. see the website The Women’s College will www.thewomenscollege.com. be open for tours. Guests au/alumnae.php are welcome to come to the Principal’s Concert at 4pm Or contact Jacinta Walpole in the Main Common Room Phone: +61 2 9517-5008 at the College. Email community@ Father Daughter Dinner thewomenscollege.com.au Saturday 12 September 2009. Invitations will be sent early All events take place at The in Semester Two. Women’s College unless otherwise stated.

Photos: Maja Baska Rev Dr Ivan Head Steve Lanske Ted Sealey Erik Williamson Staff and students of The Women’s College

Contact details: Editor: The Women’s College Tiffany Donnelly The University of Sydney NSW 2006 Australia Design: Phone: +61 2 9517 5000 Fax: +61 2 9517 5006 Digital and Print Media www.thewomenscollege.com.au Our cover: Principal Dr Jane Williamson with 2009 House Committee Executive Harriet Dixon-Smith (Secretary), ENVI Silk Carbon Neutral Paper. Isabel Cregan (Treasurer) and ENVI is an Australian Government Edwina Tidmarsh (President). certified Greenhouse Friendly™ Product.

This publication is printed on ENVI Silk Carbon Neutral paper. ENVI is manufactured in Australia by Australian Paper and is certified Greenhouse Friendly™ by the Australian Produced by Digital and Print Media, Government’s Department of Climate Change under the the University of Sydney, July 2009. Greenhouse Friendly™ initiative. 09/2003 CRICOS provider No. 00026A

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