Issue 3 | 2012
SIENA COLLEGE
www.siena.vic.edu.au
Dominican Common Ground 2012 In the July holiday break forty Year 10, 11 and 12 students from Siena College, joined students from Santa Sabina College (Sydney), St Dominic’s College (Auckland), San Sisto College (Brisbane), St Mary’s College (Adelaide), Cabra Dominican College (Adelaide), All Saints College (Maitland) and St Dominic’s Priory (North Adelaide), for Common Ground at Santa Sabina’s Outdoor Education and Retreat facility in the Southern Highlands of NSW at Tallong.
A letter from the Principal... For all of us, a school uniform is associated with memories and emotions and a particular time in our lives. It is common to hear graduating Year 12s who previously had much to say about what was wrong with their school uniform, speak fondly of how much they value it when the time arrives to wear it for the last time. Siena College has seen many changes to the uniform over its seventy-two year history, some more subtle than others. Some eighteen months ago, it was decided that the time had come to update the College uniform and a new version was launched at an assembly on November 8. Staff, students and parents were treated to a fashion parade that showcased the many changes to the uniform since 1940. The new uniform was designed to reflect the history and Dominican tradition of Siena College and to serve the College well into the future. We hope that past students like it as much as our current students and families do. The distinctive, rust blazer has been retained as the one constant feature of all
the uniform changes across the history of Siena College. It reflects the rich, rust coloured soils of Siena in Italy, the birthplace of our patron, St Catherine of Siena. The rust colour is also a symbolic link between Siena and the red soil at the centre of Australia. The new colours of black and white connect our community to Dominicans around the world. We greatly appreciate the support of Bob Stewart of Kew, the College uniform supplier, for the donation of new uniforms for the 2013 College Captains and the invaluable support and advice of Francis Stewart during the design process. We are also very grateful to the Siena Parents’ Association for purchasing items of uniform for the 2012 SPA fundraising raffle and for funding the design and acquisition of new uniforms for College sports teams in 2013.
entertain and enthral us at the various concerts and soirees each year. The most recent enhancement to music at Siena is the arrival of a magnificent new grand piano which is now housed in the Hall. We look forward to hearing it played by students and staff in the years ahead and are grateful to the Siena Parents’ Association for contributing to the costs of this new instrument. A special thank you is extended to Director of Music, Kerryn McGillen, Pauline Sheehan, Director of Music from 1987 to 2011 and staff member Andrew James, for their support in acquiring this very special new instrument for our College. I hope you enjoy this edition of the Spirit and the opportunity to catch up on news and events at the College over the last six months.
Over the years, the Siena Music program has grown and developed. We are proud of the many ensembles, bands and orchestras as well as the soloists who
Veritas Dinners
L-R: Susan Keech, Ann Sanciolo, Pam Sadauskas, Sr Trish Madigan O.P., Angela Ho
The Dominican Sisters are keen to explore new ways to connect and converse with Dominican ex-students, colleagues and friends. One way that is proving effective is the ‘Veritas SIENA COLLEGE 2 Dinner’. The name has its 2012 origin in the
Dominican motto, “Veritas”, meaning “Truth”. 2012 saw the inaugural Veritas Dinner held in Melbourne to coincide with St Catherine of Siena’s feast (April), followed by another to coincide with St Dominic’s Day (August). An invitation was extended to women and men who have expressed an interest in Dominican matters through their association with Dominican sisters, Siena College or as Dominican parishioners. The dinners provide a convivial forum to engage in some ‘Truth seeking’ together, to ‘get to the truth’ of issues that are of mutual concern and interest. The staffroom at Siena College overlooking the Convent courtyard provides an excellent venue
for those who may be interested in joining this Dominican Sisters’ venture. If you are interested in coming along in 2013 or know someone who would appreciate such a connection please let me know. You will be most welcome! Sr Juliana Drobik O.P. Dominican Liaison
L-R: Susie Mioni, Pam Sadauskas, Nanette Giovannini, Sr Juliana Drobik O.P., Debbie Dunn, Christine Miller, Maleah Gridley, Layal Hanna
Common Ground is a gathering held every two years of senior students from Dominican and associated Dominican Colleges across Australia and New Zealand. The three day Common Ground conference provided opportunities to explore our Dominican heritage, and identity and explore what it means to follow in the footsteps of St Dominic and St Catherine of Siena in this new millennium. The sessions involved a range of presentations from staff and students. Opportunity for students to share in small groups through prayer and reflection, creative work, team building and leadership activities as well as enjoy leisure time together, were embraced
Back L-R: Sr Juliana Drobik O.P., Jess Diamond, Madeleine Toohey, Julia Pecararo, Gemma Topliss, Natalie Angus, Catherine Dent, Rebecca Cunningham, Marie Salinger. Front L-R: Madeleine Solomon, Grace Holland
by participants. Staff also valued the opportunity for networking and collegiality. Sr Elizabeth Hellwig O.P., Congregation Archivist, presented a wonderful overview of the history of the Dominican Family and Marg O’Shea, Promoter of Charism in Dominican schools, explored our Dominican identity and introduced
students to the Dominican Family in all its diversity across 110 countries in the world. Students from the various Dominican colleges were excited to learn about what we all hold in common. Sr Juliana Drobik O.P. Dominican Liaison
Visit of Sr Sheila Flynn O.P. For the past ten years Sr Sheila Flynn O.P. from South Africa has paid an annual visit to the College. Sr Sheila was born in England and entered a South African congregation of Dominican Sisters with whom she has lived and ministered for over thirty years. Many students past and present have learnt from Sr Sheila of the struggles of the people in South Africa and of the great joy and hope that Sr Sheila’s project with the women and men in the Kopanang community has given them in the face of such adversity, loss and grief. The Kopanang community in South Africa is a highly motivated group of nearly eighty women (with six hundred dependants) who create unique, handcrafted products that are not only exquisitely beautiful, and African in design, but are also the source of sustenance to the families. Sr Sheila, an artist herself says “Creating a thing of beauty is healing and empowering to each of us. We live on the cutting edge of life and are confronted with issues that are sometimes overwhelming, but the support from Dominican schools in Australia continues to give us strength and courage to make a difference, to keep on keeping on.”
Sr Sheila spends a few days each year at the College. All Year 7 students were introduced to Sr Sheila and learnt a little of her ministry in South Africa. She also worked with the student leaders, senior art students and provided ongoing formation in the Dominican charism to staff. Each year as part of the SRC fundraising activities, students raise money to support the Kopanang community. Some of the beautiful crafts are also available for sale. The Kopanang community are grateful
for the ongoing support the Siena College community is able to give to the project. The Dominican Sisters in Australia are delighted that Sr Sheila has requested to transfer to our congregation. She began a three year period of transition on the 7th November, the feast of all Dominican saints. Siena College welcomes Sr Sheila and will pray during this time as she discerns her future with us. Sr Juliana Drobik O.P. Dominican Liaison
L-R: Sr Sheila Flynn O.P., Anna Pradhan, Simran Rekhy, Stephanie Manariti, Lucy Duffy-Krywula, Niamh O’Connor
Sr Sheila Flynn O.P
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SIENA COLLEGE
www.siena.vic.edu.au
Siena’s Fashion through the Ages!
Indigenous Immersion 2012 On a chilly Melbourne morning in late September, fifteen Siena students and two staff gathered at Melbourne airport with fellow travellers from Our Lady of Sion College, to embark on the ten day Indigenous Immersion Experience.
Pinafores c.1960’s and 70’s
The Uniform in the 1940’s
The following is an abridged version of the commentary that accompanied the “Siena College Fashion through the Ages” fashion show to launch the new uniform on November 8th, 2012. Siena College has a proud history of educating independent young women and giving them a strong sense of community. This sense of community has been reflected in the enduring images of style and elegance shown in the uniforms of past days. We begin in 1940, the year Siena Convent, as it was then known, opened. Fifteen students were enrolled and they ranged from Year 7-9. Their uniform was described as comprising “a lovely lemon-yellow checked dress with a green jumper and rust blazer”. A delightful straw hat with gentle green lining was the perfect accessory for the warmer months. The winter uniform was also a singularly impressive ensemble. The blazer and tunic began in 1940 and lasted until 1972 – an incredible 32 years. In 1942, war was raging around the world and here in Australia, rationing was in full swing. Clothing materials were limited and this resulted in the first change in uniform. Gone was the lemon checked summer uniform and in came a thoroughly modern dress. Variously described as fawn or beige, the dress was often made at home and included delightful white trimming around the ‘peter pan’ collar. The jaunty straw hat with its delightful leaf green trim set off the uniform to a tee and gloves and stockings were a must! The accompanying rust jumper and blazer gave the outfit a most stylish and contemporary finish. This dress design was to remain the iconic visual statement of the Siena community for the next 30 years! Siena’s winter uniform consisted of a simple rust tunic, green tie and rust jumper, which was accompanied by a wide brimmed hat that made a strong and stylish statement. By the mid 1950s, the hat had become a chic rust beret.
the beautiful parquetry floors, students wore indoor shoes, much like modern slippers. They also wore a dark green pinafore to protect their uniforms! Before we knew it, Siena was well and truly living in the ‘70s! This was a time of great change! The winter tunic became a skirt while the summer dress was replaced by a trendy cream coloured number that screamed – “look at me!” The hemlines shortened, hats disappeared and by the end of the ‘70s, so too had the gloves and stockings! In addition to the uniform changes, Siena Dominican Convent School was also to have a name change and Siena College came into being. The next big movement in the fashion stakes happened in 1998 when the rust winter skirt was exchanged for a plaid skirt and the tie was reintroduced. By 2005, the tie had lapsed as had the pointed shirt and V- necked jumper – replaced with a round collared shirt and jumper. The new summer uniform was a dramatic departure from the past. A rusty pink became the dominant colour, although to be fair there was more pink than rust! Subtle rust piping highlighted the collars and a distinctive summer hat was a fitting accessory.
But time moves on and fashions change. After much deliberation, it was decided that a new uniform was needed. The new uniform recognises and respects the part and place of our College uniform through the ages. Incorporating tradition and contemporary style, it suggests confidence and excellence and will lead us with certainty into the 21st century and beyond. Catherine Judd College Archivist
The Uniform in 1972
SIENA COLLEGE 2012
We visited some amazing places on our journey, including a local indigenous school, Standley Chasm, the ochre pits, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta, participated in a traditional indigenous dance at the Uluru Resort and had a fantastic tour around Uluru. The rain that fell while we were at Uluru added another dimension to this spiritual place with its small waterfalls and rugged rock formation. At night we pitched our tents and slept in swags, slowly adjusting to a simpler, technology-free lifestyle. Meals were cooked over an open fire, and our evenings were spent around the fire writing in our journals and reflecting on what we take for granted back at home. “This trip was definitely a once in a life time experience. Never again will we be so thoroughly immersed in Aboriginal culture.
“On the 21st September, 7am, at Melbourne Airport, we embarked on a trip of a lifetime. From a freezing cold morning in Melbourne we arrived to a hot Alice Springs day. Our adventure then started with our guides Jungala and Colleen as we travelled for 10 days down to Uluru. We saw and experienced some amazing places on the way that nobody could forget. Stories were told which opened our minds to a new world around us. It was one of the most amazing trips I have ever had and one I will never forget.” – Jessica Basile, Year 11 The Indigenous Immersion Experience was a life-changing one for all involved. Claire Moody Commerce Teacher Kerryn McGillen Director of Music
Archbishop Hart celebrates St Dominic’s Day with Siena College On August 3, Archbishop Denis Hart joined the Siena College community to celebrate the Feast of St Dominic Guzman, founder of the Dominican Order. The Uniform in 1999
All members of the Dominican Family were represented. Sr. Judith Lawson, Prioress of the Dominican Sisters, Fr Anthony Walsh O.P., Sisters and Brothers from the Camberwell Priory joined members of the College Board, Staff and students to recall the many life achievements of this scholarly saint and to give thanks for the many gifts we have inherited through his legacy.
morning tea and a tour of the College grounds resplendent in the glorious sunshine. Deborah Kent Director of Mission
In true Dominican style, we listened to the foundation of our story and joined in joyful strains to praise, bless and preach.
Another fascinating inclusion in the uniform was indoor and outdoor shoes! To protect
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Our guides, Jungala and Colleen, immediately had us immersed in the beauty and culture of the land. From a local café providing vocational training and employment for young Indigenous people, we heard about life growing up in the Northern Territory. On our stay at the first out station we were given the amazing opportunity to engage in the local culture by taking part in a smoking ceremony, digging for honey ants and listening to many stories about the history and culture of the land and its people.
Every step of the way Jungala, our guide, would impart a new story about the culture and history of his people. We were told the dream time stories of Uluru and how to find a whole pharmacy and supermarket in the bush. Each day ran on Indigenous time, rising early for breakfast, an activity, a rest during the hottest part of the day and then another activity in the late afternoon before dinner. When it was time to board the flight home none of us wanted to leave. We left with a deeper understanding of the stories and culture of the land and its people. We also left with a covering of red dust to remind us of a special trip. This was a truly amazing trip and I am already planning my next trip back to Alice Springs.” – Claire Bolton, Year 11
2013 New College Uniform
New 2013 Academic and Sports Uniform
Following the Eucharist, the Archbishop joined teachers, students and guests for
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SIENA COLLEGE
www.siena.vic.edu.au
Living Legend!
Carolyn Scriven 1971
Our longest serving member of staff, Mrs Carolyn Scriven, joined Siena College in 1970. She thought the College was ‘small in size but huge in character’. Carolyn taught English, History and Politics until the 1980s when she moved into the areas of Careers Education and year level coordination at Years 11 and 12. Later still, Carolyn took on the role of College Registrar – a role she continues to hold as she does with Careers.
The moment Carolyn felt she truly became a member of the Siena community was when Sr Mary Colambanus presented her with her very own clicker! Past students will remember how the clicker would direct students to stand, sit down, and be quiet – all by the number of clicks made!
REUNIONS AND UPCOMING REUNIONS
From 1970 to the present day, Carolyn has witnessed building projects, uniform changes, considerable developments in curriculum and enormous student successes in many different fields.
Details on College website in 2013
40 year Reunion Class of 1973 (commenced at Siena 1968) When: Sat 12th October 2013
2013 Reunion of the Long Photo 1952 When: Friday, 31 May 2013
Location to be confirmed Contact: Sr Joan Winter O.P.
‘My time here’, says Carolyn ‘has been fulfilling beyond measure. Being part of a community with shared values and beliefs, where there are endless opportunities for personal, spiritual and professional growth and ultimately, where students and their families are happy to continue their connections to Siena over the years, is absolutely wonderful.’
Carolyn Scriven 2012
Carolyn Scriven has not only taught, guided and inspired so many students but through her longevity of service has become a significant source of Siena College memory and all of this is what makes her one of our living legends!
25 Year Reunion (Class of 1987)
Catherine Judd, College Archives The Clicker 1960’s and 1970’s
Engagements
Reconnections
Marianna Saliba (ex-student 2002) to Paul Ktenas Kate Weston (ex-student 2002) to Tom Smith Casey Lord (ex-student 2002) to James Sutherland
We are very grateful for the recent donation, by Mrs Catherine Courtney nee Dunn (Class of 1956), of a set of Rustling Leaves student magazines for the period 1952-56. Rustling Leaves was the first student magazine of Siena College. Catherine won the competition which gave the name to the new magazine!
Marriages
ADVANCE NOTICE:
Sr Rosemary Lewins O.P. (Siena College Principal 1971-78) recently visited the College and helped in Archive work to put names to faces in old photographs. She then had a tour of the Thomas Aquinas Learning Centre, saw the new College uniform and joined staff for morning tea.
Emily Trembath (ex-student 2002) to Tim Halliburton on 21 December 2012
20 Year Reunion (Class of 1992)
Elizabeth Herd (ex-student 2002) to Craig Garrow on 8 December 2012 Stacey Louras (ex-student 2005) to John Psihogios earlier in 2012
Births
40 Year Reunion (Class of 1971-1972) Catherine Courtney (nee Dunn)
Sr Rosemary Lewins O.P.
Mel Matulin (ex-student 2002) and her partner Welcomed their son Meeko, into the world on 9 February 2012
Siena College Alumnae Directory
Claire Jenkinson (staff) and Sam Welcomed their daughter Matilda Mary into the world on 22 September 2012
1. Complete the details on the slip on the back cover and post to Siena College
Maree Hodgson (staff) and Luke Welcome their son Jed Cooper into the world on 4 July 2012
Be sure to LIKE the Siena College site www.facebook.com/SienaCollegeCamberwell
Anita Gali (staff) and Tom Welcomed their daughter Julia Heather Crowle into the world on 5 July 2012 2013 International Women’s Day Breakfast Box Hill Golf Club - Thurs 7th March @ 7am Guest Speaker - Jacqueline Harris
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SIENA COLLEGE 2012
Are you registered on the Siena College Alumnae database?
How can I check or update my details? 2. Send your details to the Alumnae Coordinator at alumnae@siena.vic.edu.au 3. Online at: www.siena.vic.edu.au/school_community select Alumnae
DEATHS July - December 2012 DECEASED
COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIP
DATE OF DEATH
Jane Atchinson (Nee Kiernan)
Ex-Student (1972)
30 June 2012
Sr Kay Fennell O.P.
Dominican Sister
23 July 2012
Joan Fahey
Ex-staff (1967-1978)
15 September 2012
Theresa (Joan) Wallace
Ex-student (1942)
12 October 2012
The above information has been supplied to Siena College and has been verified to the best of our knowledge. We invite families to advise the College of details for inclusion in future publications.
5 Year Reunion (Class of 2007)
1 Year Reunion (Class of 2011)
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FIESTA 2012 In a remarkable effort, Fiesta 2012, raised over $6,000 for the ministry of the Dominican Sisters in the Solomon Islands. Following the 2012 College theme “Be all you should be. Set the World Ablaze”, the performances were a fantastic combination of singing, acting and dancing that kept everyone entertained. Dianella began with “Nonna Knows Best”. Young Raviolo found his one true love with the help of his Nonnas. Waratah followed with perfect student Prudence, in her highly pristine, all girls’ school, who fell in love with wild boy Leroy. Kurrajong showcased the work of two keen investigators looking into a bank robbery but did they really have what it took to crack the case? Finally, the St Catherine’s Cup winners for 2012, Cassia, showcased a colourful group of tourists, venturing on a trip of a life time that involved pirates and a dodgy crew and captain. Martin Gibbs House Coordinator
Siena College Alumnae DIRECTORY updated contact details NAME ADDRESS STATE
POSTCODE
CONTACT DETAILS
MOBILE
CLASS OF (final year attended) EMAIL Post to to The SienaAlumnae College,Coordinator, 815 Riversdale Road, Camberwell VIC 3124 Road, Camberwell VIC 3124 Post Siena College, 815 Riversdale or update details online: www.siena.vic.edu.au/school_community