Issue 4 | 2013
SIENA COLLEGE
www.siena.vic.edu.au
A message from the Principal This year sees the reestablishment of the Siena College Alumnae Association and the growth of our community publication The Spirit. This issue’s cover represents not only the Alumnae Association but also the integration of our community, past, present and future. A great strength of the College has always been the relationships and the sense of connection and community that exists. This is evident by the many past students who continue to visit the College and meet on a regular basis, including the extraordinary group of women who meet annually for the ‘Reunion of the Long Photo’ which was taken in 1952. Through the reestablishment of the Alumnae Association we hope to reconnect with as many of our Alumnae as possible and promote the Siena College community, strengthening old ties and forming new ones. During the April holidays I accompanied a group of twelve students and two staff on our inaugural immersion trip to South Africa. For all who participated, it was a graced and privileged experience. For me,
it was a time filled with contrasting images and experiences; a beautiful dawn sunrise on Easter Sunday with a red sun on the horizon over the shacks of Tsakane, morning glories amidst the refuse of the shanty towns where we distributed clothing on Good Friday, extreme poverty coupled with the warmth of the hospitality, the sharing and the relationships and in every encounter, a lived Gospel. The courage and determination of the people made the challenges we thought we would face pale into insignificance. Some of the girls reported how hard it was to see their host mother sleep on the floor so that they could have a bed. All of us were wracked with questions about what we could do to ease the hardship of the people we met and the striking contrast between our circumstances in Australia and their struggles. My own host family lived in three rooms attached to a shack. On one very cold night, I discovered that they had no hot water bottles, and instead, filled coke bottles with warm water to fend off the cold. The twenty seven year old daughter rose each day at 4.30am
and left for work an hour later to catch three taxis to a food processing plant where she worked in a cold room. She would not return until 7.45pm each night and was paid not much more than the equivalent of $200 AUD per month for her efforts. Our experiences were many and varied and had a significant impact on each member of the group. I was so proud of how our students conducted themselves and how they embraced every experience and challenge they encountered. I hope you enjoy our double page spread on the South African Immersion and the variety of other news and events from our community since the start of the year. Gaynor Robson-Garth Principal
Dominicans in the Solomon Islands In 1956 the Dominican Sisters of Australia established a mission in the Solomon Islands in conjunction with the Dominican Friars and lay volunteers. There are now thirty two indigenous sisters working across mission centres in the Solomons. It has been a tradition at Siena for many years that the students raise funds on St Catherine’s day to support the Dominican sisters in their ministry in the Solomon Islands. Funds are raised through the students organising a variety of stalls in their House Groups. The funds raised this year assisted the sisters to purchase a new canoe. As there are 3,000 islands in the Solomon Islands and the sisters live in different communities from Honiara to Auki in the east to Nila in the Western Province, the canoe is an essential mode of transport for the sisters to travel to and from their ministries. The photos show Sr Bari, leader in the Solomon IslandsCOLLEGE and some of the local SIENA 2013 2
sisters, taking delivery of the new canoe. The Dominican Sisters have established a Dominican Volunteer Support Group which provides potential volunteers with the opportunity to find out more about the Solomon Islands country and culture; the ministry of Dominicans in the Solomon Islands and how their own gifts/skills could be shared with the Solomon Island people. The Support Group also enables Australian Sisters and Solomon Island Sisters to clarify the priorities in ministry/projects to which volunteers could contribute and forms partnerships with other agencies sending volunteers, e.g. PALMS, Edmund Rice Centre, Dominican Volunteers International.
Sr Rebecca OP with Year 7 Siena Students
Volunteer teaching English to the Solomon Island sisters
Sr Julianna Drobik OP
For further Information about being a volunteer please contact: justice@opeast.org.au Delivery of the canoe that was purchased with funds raised from St Catherine’s Day.
College Captains Past and Present As student numbers were so small in the 1940s, student leadership positions were very limited. Head Prefects and Prefects were selected by the Sisters and their responsibilities consisted of ensuring students were well behaved in public and especially on public transport. Woe betide anyone who wasn’t courteous and refined at all times! One of the Sisters would be informed and not only would the offending student be spoken to, so too were the parents! By the late 1940s, students in the senior years were often given positions of leadership to be role models to the younger students. They might be ambassadors of the College at particular events or act as monitors and organisers at sports’ days or retreats. Their role was considerably different from what our present day student leaders undertake and reflect the very different times and issues that faced students of those earlier days. Our College Captains and SRC of today all have specific role descriptions and responsibilities and must have undertaken a leadership course before they can be considered for nomination and election. Leaders can expect to be ambassadors, representatives and role models but they also accept other responsibilities. Students look after portfolios such as the environment, Veritas (the student magazine), public speaking and debating, performing arts and sports – just to name a few! The House Captains are also responsible for encouraging House spirit,
through a range of fantastic activities including trying to win the HOTY (House of the Year) trophy and the student organised Fiesta. Our student leaders – past and present – have given much to Siena. Their affection for the College and their willingness to work for a better school make these young women outstanding representatives of the entire community. They speak the truth and live it out through the people they have grown into being. We are all richer for their contribution.
1948 prefect autographs, donated by Patricia Cox (nee Spillane)
Siena Leaders ~ Head Prefects/College Captains 1940
Shirley Cecil
1955
Joan McLellan
1970
Maureen Blayney
1985
Anne Stewart
2000
1941
Shirley Cecil
1956
Marie McKenna
1971
Barbara Hince
1986
Kathryn Lewis
2001
1942
Jeanne McKenna
1957
Denise Sullivan
1972
Janet Campbell
1987
2002
1943
Eileen Gehring
1958
Wendy Doyle
1973
Deborah Dunn
1988
2003
Stacey Lowther
1944
Margaret Smith
1959
Carolyn Dunne
1974
Robyn Mason
1989
2004
Kathleen Casey
1945
Judith Norton
1960
1975
Jane Phelan
1990
2005
Leah Cutri
1946
Clare McFall
1961
1976
Julianne White
1991
Elizabeth Prosser
2006
Megan Oliver
1947
Kathleen O’Brien
1962
Judy Kelleher Rose Marie Prosser Patricia O’Sullivan
Katherine Lachlin Laura Van Tatenhove Katharine Prosser Clare Monagle
Sarah Baron Bronwyn Strempel Meg O’Brien
1977
Concetta Carafa
1992
Juliet Pellegrini
1948
Gwen Daly
1963
Mary Frost
1978
Carolyn Pethick
1993
Zara Lawless
2007
1949
Judy O’Sullivan
1964
Julie Hardiman
1979
Suzanne Jamison
1994
Clare Moran
2008 2009 2010
1950 1951 1952
Elizabeth Douglas Margaret Armstrong Bernadette O’Brien
1965
Dianne Sullivan
1980
Carolyn Connors
1995
Caroline Henwood
1966
Carmel Cairney
1981
Maria Frisina
1996
Megan Smith
1967
Susan Onley
1982
Anne Chalmers
1997
Clare Humphries
2011
1953
Betty Martin
1968
Margaret Strachan
1983
Cathy Moynihan
1998
Anna Di Giantomasso
2012
1954
Pauline Emery
1969
Julie Bloom
1984
Jacqueline McInerney
1999
Anna Trembath
2013
Nicole Tuminello Rachael Clements Alessia Galioto Alexandra Preece Ella Olsen Isobell Vescovi Grace Hand Catrina Armiento Georgia Morsley Adele Hirst Dana Hamilton Nadia Morali Anna Collopy Mary Costantini
Past Student Noela Corby (nee Commons)
The Heritage Centre was recently visited by past student, Noela Corby (nee Commons, Class of 1957). Noela kindly donated her blazer pocket to the College Archives in
2010. Since then the pocket has undergone extensive conservation and restoration. It is a very proud reminder of Siena’s early sports history. The blazer pocket also has historical significance because it represents the first time that leadership positions were acknowledged on the College uniform. This came about following careful planning by a group of Siena students. In the early 1950s, some senior students spoke to the Sisters about getting to know the students at other Dominican schools. The Siena students then suggested that since every other school allowed leadership
2013 College Captains Since Year 8, leadership has been an enormous part of my schooling life. I began as Dianella’s Middle School House Captain. Many of my most rewarding memories were during my leadership roles. I had been praised for my leadership work, which then prompted me to take my responsibility within the school a step further, by taking on the role of College Captain. So far it has been a privilege to work with the Student Representative Council (SRC) and my fellow College Captain Anna Collopy. I am humbled by the opportunities that Siena has offered me. Being a Siena student has shown me that I have the confidence and capability to work in a team and accept the different gifts that people possess. Since experiencing the work of radiologists first hand, I have developed a particular interest in going into this field. I have been focused on getting the marks needed to
attend Monash University. Being the College Captain has enlightened me to the struggles that others face across the world, particularly the Kopanang community. From this I would like to continue to support Siena’s endeavors throughout my adulthood in regards to Sr Sheila’s work. Mary Costantini
Leadership at Siena College has been a part of my life since Year 7, when I was elected a House representative for the Student Representative Council (SRC). Now, along with my fellow Captain Mary, I have the
positions to be embroidered on the blazer pockets, it would be remiss of the College not to take some small pride in the accomplishments and leadership skills of those selected to be the Siena ambassadors. Thus, for the first time, blazer pockets recorded achievements and leadership positions. Noela’s blazer pocket reflects her captaincy of sport and the tennis team. We are very grateful to Noela and all past students who have donated items to the Heritage Centre. Catherine Judd College Archivist
honour of chairing our weekly SRC meetings. After hearing one of last year’s captains, Dana Hamilton, speak at one of our Pillars leadership training programs I was inspired to apply for the role of College Captain and was lucky enough to be successful. All these opportunities have truly shaped me into the person I am today and I am forever grateful to the College for that. In the future, I hope to study Global Arts at Monash University and study abroad in South Africa. I would like to do some volunteering overseas and possibly study sustainability and anthropology. I would also love to work in the fields of human rights and international aid. The work I have done as a College Captain, in conjunction with my studies in Global Politics, has given me the chance to see the impact of many global issues and what we can do to help. Anna Collopy
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South Africa Immersion - Kopanang During the April holidays Mrs Robson-Garth, Ms Mangelsdorf, Ms Salinger and twelve Year 11 students embarked on the inaugural Siena College South Africa Immersion Experience. We travelled to Johannesburg and onto Tsakane to join Sr Sheila Flynn and the families of the Kopanang community for what was to be a life changing experience for all who participated. Kopanang is a women’s community project that addresses the impact of HIV/AIDS and endemic poverty in the township of Tsakane which is situated 55 km South East of Johannesburg. It is one of the townships created as the labour force for the gold mines in the area through forced removals of people in the apartheid era. After the last mine closure in 2006, there has been an unprecedented level of unemployment affecting more than 80% of the population. Most of the women of Kopanang have been deprived of an adequate education, further exacerbating their ability to survive and provide for their families. The community has been heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS. The Kopanang community project was set up to provide the women with a healing space to share their life experiences, their faith and cultural heritage and to learn embroidery and craft skills to enable them to generate a small income. The project has grown over the years to include a care program for children, many of whom are orphaned, a home based support program for the sick, food parcels and other crisis support as well as a feeding program, childcare centre and vegetable garden. We were so warmly welcomed by the families who hosted us and by Sr Sheila Flynn. What
we thought would be our greatest challenges; the lack of running water, the lack of privacy, no access to a toilet at night or the occasional encounter with a rat, paled into insignificance when we witnessed the courage and dogged determination of the people we met. We had many and varied experiences including walking through the township on a tuberculosis awareness march, helping in the kitchen to prepare breakfast and lunch for hundreds of orphaned children and assisting in the childcare centre. We also visited the Apartheid Museum, the Constitution Court and had a wonderful day at the Pilanesberg Game Park where we saw a magnificent herd of over twenty elephants, bulls, cows and baby calves at a waterhole. There were many occasions when we were moved to tears, but the Siena students rose to every challenge. Some of the girls emptied their suitcases at the end of the trip and left behind all but the clothing they wore home and the gifts they had bought for their families back in Australia. We have all come back much changed by our experiences and echoing one student’s conviction that she would never ever complain again about anything in her life being too difficult.
Group at Freedom Park
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Below are some reflections from the Siena students who participated in the South Africa Immersion Experience: Whilst at Kopanang, we met some amazing people and organisations. One of these organisations was the Sithand’izingane Care Project. It was an organisation that welcomed orphans and made their lives easier. There was a crèche for the younger kids, and classes for the older kids, and a very friendly kitchen staff that fed the students and the staff breakfast and lunch every week day. Many of the staff in the kitchen worked most hours of the day to help provide food to the children. We were fortunate enough to spend at least one day in the kitchen in our groups, where we chopped lots of vegetables, grated probably more than a hundred tomatoes and wore some pretty cool chef hats. It was a lot of hard work, but it was definitely worth it when we got to see all of the smiles on the children’s faces and see how much they enjoyed the food. We met a lot of lovely people through this activity. Molly
We walked in a march for TB awareness which is a common disease in South Africa. It was a really good way to learn about the illness of TB while still having fun and interacting with other students of all different ages in the local areas that we passed through. We started the march with just a few of the orphans and some of the leaders from Sithand’izingane, but after marching the streets for over an hour other people joined us and by the end we had gathered 70 odd people of all ages and genders. While on the walk, we chanted in Zulu, handed out flyers to people in their front gardens and talked to just about everyone we passed. When we finished, we assembled in a large circle where we were properly informed about the disease and then got to play with the kids and talk to the teenagers. Everyone who was part of the march was served a hot lunch of rice and sauce with chicken. It was an experience that is hard to forget as the memories and friendships we made were ones of a lifetime. Kate
One thing I definitely took away with me from this journey, is now knowing how much of a luxury life we all live. We are lucky to have hot running water, or even running water in the house. I knew people were less fortunate than us but a part of me never really made an effort to ever find out what the gap was like. What the women in Kopanang lack in material items they certainly make up for in spirit, courage and love. I will never take anything for granted, no matter how small or insignificant it is, because in reality, I am extremely lucky to live the life I do. To receive a good education, live in a safe neighbourhood and have basic materials in life is all I could ask for. After hearing the stories from the women of Kopanang, it also gave me belief that I could do anything, if they have gone through what they have and are still fighting with an enormous amount of spirit. Natalie
I personally have never experienced such hospitable welcomes as in my time in South Africa, especially from my host mother Jabulile and her family, Stephen and Boikano. Both
Sophie and I were treated like daughters, we had our chores, we got in trouble from our host mum, but we definitely had fun. Jabulile is one of the happiest, most hopeful ladies I think I’ve ever met, always staying positive that God and her faith will guide her through any problem. I’ll never forget her incredible singing voice that pretty much transformed our singing of ‘We Are One’, and particularly the raised eyebrows we got when attempting to cook her our version of spaghetti bolognaise. This trip has given me a new perspective, it’s opened my eyes and my heart, and I honestly cannot wait to go back. Melanie
It’s hard to explain how these women have been treated. They have been confronted with situations we wouldn’t even imagine. Even though living through such adversity their hearts are always open, they give you their love and care without question. I was welcomed into a home I had never been in and introduced to a woman I had never met, and not once did I feel like a stranger. This trip has allowed me to understand that all that has been broken should not be forgotten. This experience has shown me the beauty and love that South Africa has to offer and I can’t wait until I am able to return to Jabulile and my family. Sophie
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St Catherine’s Day Mass 2013 On Friday April 26, we gathered as a College community to celebrate the feast of our patron Catherine of Siena. Our College Choir under the direction of Ms Kerryn McGillen ensured that we “prayed twice” with our singing. The students sang in glorious tones to our patron supported by members of the College Bands. During his homily, Fr Anthony Walsh OP, our College Chaplain reminded us of Catherine’s devotion and self sacrifice. He spoke of how she sought truth and made peace in her relationships and actions. Catherine Benincasa was born in 1347. At the age of six, she had a vision of Christ in glory, surrounded by His saints. From that time on, she spent most of her time in prayer and meditation, much to the dismay of her parents. Through her contemplation she discerned a desire to help nurse patients with leprosy and engage in other services to her community. In adulthood she began to acquire a reputation as a person of insight and sound judgement. Many from all walks of life sought her spiritual advice and wise counsel. She also became politically active urging an end to the Papal schism and the reform of the excesses that had crept into the priesthood.
Fiesta 2013 Fiesta is a celebration of the performing arts talents within the four houses at Siena College – Cassia, Dianella, Kurrajong and Waratah. Fiesta is a fitting conclusion to St Catherine’s Day following Mass and House Group stalls raising money for the Dominican Sisters in the Solomon Islands. This year the girls were provided with the theme of “fractured fairy tales”. The girls had to use the story of a famous fairy tale and then twist, mould and shape the story into something special for the entire school community. It is a student led production that runs for twenty minutes, and must incorporate all year levels within the house, as well as live music, singing and dancing. All Houses worked hard since the start of the year rehearsing at recess and lunchtime and even during the school holidays. The four talented House leadership groups structured dance routines, blocked out acting scenes and wrote inventive, humorous and challenging scripts. Kurrajong began the Fiesta with a modern interpretation of the famous Goldilocks and the Three Bear’s fairy tale. Kurrajong’s broad
Brianna Reaney and Jamilla Georgi
Fr Anthony Walsh OP celebrates St Catherine’s Day Mass
In our readings, our music, prayers and song we remembered Catherine as mystic, as contemplative, as advisor, as humanitarian, as nurse, as educator and as a great preacher and social activist who never hesitated to “speak truth to power” despite the heavy personal cost. In all the activity she always made time to meet with those who wished to share with her their problems both grave and trivial. Catherine’s timeless qualities ensure she remains a role model for our students today as she was for young women in her own time. Celebrating St Catherine of Siena
range of well trained, humorous actors stood out and won the Academy Award from the judges. Waratah performed their fractured take on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs which led to many laughs, dances and songs along the way. Dianella combined elements of Shrek to the fairy tale of Cinderella in the third performance of the afternoon. Dianella’s flashy, well orchestrated and choreographed dances won the overall dancing award and the First Timers Year 7 Award. Finally came Cassia with their twist on Alice in Wonderland. Alex from Camberwell, won the hearts of many and in the process won the Backstage Award, the Music Award and the overall St Catherine’s Cup. Well done Cassia. Fiesta is a terrific opportunity for all girls from all year levels to work together in a collaborative, fun and relaxed way. It builds outstanding House spirit, highlights the leadership capabilities of the leaders involved and showcases the many wonderful talents of the girls in the performing arts field.
Kurrajong House
Cassia House
St Catherine’s Day and Fiesta House Group stalls have raised $58,369 since 2000 6
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Annie O’Brien and Jordan Vernes
Enrichment - Learning Enhancement Gifted and talented students have ‘more specific needs which are not met by activities designed for all children’ (Braggett, E., 1994, p.23). One way to address their educational requirements is through extending them in their chosen subjects. Extension opportunities can be provided through differentiation of the content of a subject so that it is explored at a greater depth than usual or by enabling a student to progress through content at a faster rate so as to attempt more challenging concepts (compressing the curriculum). Gifted and talented students also benefit from programs designed to deepen and broaden their knowledge, skills and understandings. This can be achieved by creating opportunities for them to participate in enrichment activities that are set at a challenging level and create a wider context for learning which extends into areas beyond the usual curriculum content. Instead of just directly linking any learning programs to the curriculum, enrichment activities can raise a student’s awareness of life beyond the school environment (Thompson, M., 2006, p.77). As a member of the Boroondara Cluster for Gifted and Talented students Siena is able to offer selected students from all year levels the opportunity to participate in many varied enrichment activities. This year that has included exploring ‘The Mathematics of Infinity’ at Presbyterian Ladies College, ‘Photography and Digital Manipulation’ at Bialik College, the ‘da Vinci Decathlon’ at Methodist Ladies College and many others. At Siena we offer three Boroondara Cluster activities a year each based on a different
theme and catering to different year levels. The depth and complexity of the content is set at approximately two year levels above the target group so that the students are effectively challenged. The following is a criteria developed by Eddie Braggett (1994, p.22) which underpins the enrichment programs that are offered by Siena College: • Provide for deeper thinking skills (e.g. critical thinking) • Encourage and permit students to extend their knowledge, understanding, skills and processes • Allow for the development of creative problem solving strategies and their application • Provide the opportunity to apply their knowledge and understandings to a new situation • Encourage meaningful examination of social issues and conflict situations • Develop enabling and performance skills • Extend specific interests and understandings of the gifted The Enrichment Days offered by Siena College to the schools in the Boroondara Cluster include ‘Communication the Missing Link’ at Year 7, ‘All Fired Up’ at Year 8 and an ‘Arts and Drama Day’ for Years 9 and 10 students. The program for each day gives students the opportunity to explore a theme through the focus of different subject areas: Art, Drama, Science, Physical Education and include presentations by visiting professionals such as a Sports Nutritionist. These sessions challenge like-minded students
to understand and apply their learning at a greater depth and within a broader context. As an example the theme of ‘Youth Poverty’ was used for the Year 9 /10 program to raise the students’ knowledge of current societal issues, challenge them to examine new information, respond creatively and consider ways in which they can make a difference in the wider community. This is one of the many ways that Siena College enriches its gifted and talented students.
Sienna Lambert, Year 7
Year 7 Enrichment Day Artwork
Siena Parents’ Association Established in 1971, the Siena Parents’ Association (SPA) is the primary parent representative body of Siena College. The SPA aims to: • Support the academic, spiritual, cultural, sporting and social interests of the College students • Provide opportunities for parents to engage with the College community and to enhance relationships between College staff, parents and students • Conduct and support fundraising activities for the benefit of the College Siena Parents ’Association (SPA) is open to all Siena parents and guardians. Our annual calendar of friend raising and fundraising events has something for everyone. SPA is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the Siena community and support our daughters. New members are welcome at any time. Whatever contribution your time allows will be greatly appreciated. Contact us at spa@siena.vic.edu.au
Our annual calendar of SPA activities • Year 12 Welcome Breakfast, (February) • Year 7 Welcome Evening, (February) • Swim and Dive Team Dinner, (March) • Siena College Open Evening, (March) • Music Department, Concert Support, (May) • Year 11 Presentation Ball, (August) • Father’s Day Breakfast, (September) • Annual Fundraising Raffle, (October) • Twilight Family Picnic in Siena Grounds, (October) • Year 12 Graduation Mass and Gift, (October) • Secondhand Textbook Sale, (November) Dates of our events and monthly meetings are announced in our regular e-newsletter. Meeting Dates for 2013 16 July 13 August 10 September 29 October (AGM) 12 November 7.30 pm Siena College Staff Room
Siena Parents’ Association
Committee
SPA Co-Presidents
Marg Bowden Jo Elefantis Irene McGuire Marianne Marshall Libby McGibbon Maureen McLaughlin Helen Miller Dario Musco Clara Palioportas Kerry Richards Janet Thorne Cynthia Viti
Michael Mimmo Lawrence Ballestrin
Treasurer Victoria Graham Secretary Suzie Dalton
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Welcome Siena College Alumnae Siena College is excited to announce the reestablishment of the Siena College Alumnae Association. We hope to reconnect with as many of our Alumnae as possible and promote the Siena College community, strengthening old ties and forming new ones. We welcome all past students, parents and staff as Siena College Alumnae. We know that with your help we will work to establish our network and extend the involvement of past students, parents and staff with the College. I was recently appointed as Director of Development and Community Relations. Part of my role will be to coordinate all matters relating to alumnae and community relations, including the establishment of the Siena College Alumnae Association. As the College’s 75th Anniversary approaches in 2015, I will chair a 75th Anniversary Committee to plan celebrations and community events. There are many aspects required to deliver and support a connected alumnae and community engagement program. Registering the Siena College Alumnae Association is our first step towards keeping you connected by hosting regular social and professional networking events providing opportunities to engage with your Alma Mater.
These could include: • Business Networking Opportunities • Social Gatherings • Formal Reunions • Cross Age Mentoring • Philanthropic Giving • Graduate Placement Programs • Community Alumnae Choir We are offering free membership to our Alumnae to join the Siena College Alumnae Association. The Siena College Alumnae Association will assist the College in generating ideas and coordinating activities. We are looking for volunteers who would like to join the committee which will meet four times a year. Engaging a representative from each of the decades would be preferable.
Reunion Season Siena College is delighted to announce the formation of an annual ‘Siena Reunion Season’ to be held in October each year at the College. Over that month we will celebrate special gatherings and the decade reunions. These events will provide a great opportunity for you to catch up with old friends, reestablish contacts, and find out what has happened to everyone in the time since you graduated. For further details on reunion dates see back cover.
Tracey Grobbelaar
Siena College is in the process of updating the alumnae database and seeks any assistance in this process. If you are able to provide contact details of any past Siena students, relatives or friends, please email these to alumnae@siena.vic.edu.au or call 9835 0266. Together we can create a networked alumnae community that actively recognises the contributions of past students, parents and staff, enabling us to build on the success of our College for the benefit of future generations. During July we are enlisting a team of enthusiastic Siena College past students who will be assisting me to call our Alumnae community to update their details. We encourage you to become involved in the Alumnae Association thereby creating a community of mutual support linking all students, parents and staff of the College past, present and future. Tracey Grobbelaar Director of Development and Community Relations
Reunion of The Long Photo On Friday 31 May 2013 the annual Long Reunion was held. This group of ladies is an inspiration to all alumnae. In the words of Leonie Douglas “These days become more special as the years roll on.” This dedicated group has been meeting for the past 61 years.
Margaret Hoffer, Noela Corby and Patricia Jones
Bernadette Langton and Sr Margaret Fields OP
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Long Reunion Group
Claire Sammut, Mary Canty and Elizabeth O’Brien
Class of 1953
Archives Mother Gonsalvo Byrne Mother Mary Gonsalvo Byrne (18741951) was one of two sisters who joined the Dominican sisters and was the second Prioress of Siena Convent School from 1942-47. She was a formidable woman of great character and was widely respected for her leadership of the Dominican sisters in a range of capacities over many years. Mother Gonsalvo arrived at Siena at a challenging time. The College had been open for just two years and enrolments were growing. War was raging in Europe and Asia. Darwin had recently been bombed and here in Camberwell, war precautions came to the fore. Plans for bomb shelters under the convent were
drawn up and a kindly neighbour offered a farmhouse in Ferntree Gully should the Sisters need to escape the confines of Camberwell. 1942 saw the poet Dorothea Mackellar visit Siena as well as the first change in summer uniform. By 1945, a cottage in Compton Street had been purchased for music classes. 1946 saw 80 students enrolled with four in Matriculation (Year 12) and by 1947, playing fields for tennis and basketball were ready for use.
Upon the death of Mother Gonsalvo Byrne in 1951, the Siena past students decided to erect a crucifix in the gardens of the College in her memory. The lectern in the chapel was also gifted to her memory and there are other reminders of her influence and the affection in which she was held, both in the College chapel and St Dominic’s church. Catherine Judd College Archivist
By the time Mother Gonsalvo left Siena in 1947, the convent and College were well established and the future was assured.
Mother Gonsalvo’s memorial crucifix in the College garden c 1958
Can you help? I am trying to establish a list of all the Sport Captains and House Captains from 1940. I know that Houses were not established until the late 1940s but I need to discover who the captains were and when the Sport Captain position was introduced. If you know ex-students who were - or you were - a Sport Captain or a House Captain (or vice-captain) - especially from 1947 - 1972, please forward details to me at archives@siena.vic.edu.au. Catherine Judd College Archivist
Mother M. Gonsalvo Byrne OP Mistress of Novices Prioress General 1930-42 Prioress of Siena Convent School 1942-47
In 2012, a conservation study was completed for Mother Gonsalvo’s Cross. It reported that while the crucifix was in reasonable condition, it did require significant restoration and conservation. If you would like to contribute to the Restoration Fund, you can do so by contacting the College Business Manager, Vivienne Halocha or the College Archivist, Catherine Judd on 9835 0200.
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Reminiscing - Living Legends One of the wonderful aspects of being part of the Siena community is the rich diversity of experience that each member brings to it. John Palomares and Bernie Daly have both taught at Siena for over twenty years. John came to Siena in 1988 to teach Art while Bernie arrived in 1990 to teach Accounting and Social Studies. Between them, they have seen enormous change occur in curriculum and the College buildings. The College had approximately 430 students in the early 1990s. A new building had been erected at the back of the College and was opened in 1990. This two level building was to go on to become three levels comprising Avignon, Benincasa and Gagliardi. Avignon was not the Resource Centre it is today but rather a general recreational room. Benincasa was the latest in educational design with a large general learning space separating the six classrooms. Eventually, the third level was added and named in honour of Frank Gagliardi, the College’s first fulltime maintenance member of staff, who had faithfully served the College from 1960 to 1997.
(gymnasium) now stands. Platforms were still in every classroom though carpet had covered the original parquetry flooring. Art rooms were situated in the Undercroft and where the canteen presently stands. Over time, John and Bernie have taken on different subjects that have reflected changing curriculum needs. John has pursued the creative arts through photography, pottery, visual communication and design as well as fostering a love of art in all its forms. Bernie, too, has broadened his teaching repertoire to include Economics, Business Management, History, Religious Education, Money Markets and more recently, Geography.
Connections 60 Years On
Betty Martin, Helen Fitzgerald, Loreta Hodson 1953
Both teachers have seen Siena College grow in so many ways. They remain convinced that this College community is unique and one to be cherished. We congratulate these living legends for their ongoing contribution to the history of Siena. Thank you, John and Bernie!
Betty Martin, Helen Fitzgerald, Loreta Hodson 2013
John Palomares
John Palomares and Bernie Daly 2013
John and Bernie remember when the latest technology in the College consisted of two video recorders, one computer in the staffroom and a room with Commodore computers where students were taught word processing! Whole school assemblies were still conducted in the Hall and Textiles and Music were taught in the cottages where Latingata Morrum
Bernie Daly
Marriages Belinda Gagliardi (Class of 2004) and Chris Marraffa’s wedding on 20th April 2013. They were married at St Dominic’s Church, bridesmaids, Arna Harisou, Michaella Roach and Jane Oehm, all Siena girls (Class of 2004). By amazing coincidence Belinda’s dress designer was also a Siena girl by the name of Angela Colombani (Class of 1978), who goes by the label Zhanel. Serena Parisi (Class of 2008) married Michael Galante on the 16th February 2013.
Arna Harisou, Jane Oehm, Belinda Gatliardi, Michella Roach
Births
Belinda and Chris Maraffa (nee Gagliardi)
Congratulations to the following staff members on the birth of their babies:
Maree and Luke Hodgson welcomed their baby son, Jed Cooper Hodgson born on 4 July 2012.
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Anita Galli and Tom Crowle welcomed their baby girl, Julia Heather Crowle, born on 5 July 2012.
SIENA COLLEGE 2013
Sandra Siapantas and Spiros Mikronis welcomed their baby girl Kalliiopi Sophia Mikronis born on 25 February 2013.
Krislyn and Nando De Lorenzo welcomed their baby daughter - Scarlett Valentina De Lorenzo, born on Friday 26 April 2013.
Clare and Sam Jenkinson welcomed their baby girl, Matilda Mary Jenkinson born on the 22 September 2012.
Open Mornings 2013
We invite members of our community to join us at our Open Mornings for a tour of the College. Keep in touch
Monday, 25 February Friday, 3 May Friday, 21 June Monday, 5 August Friday, 6 September Friday, 25 October Monday, 2 December 9.30am – 11.00am Phone 03 9835 0200 www.siena.vic.edu.au
At Siena College we are constantly striving to maintain our records of contact details for all alumnae to ensure ongoing effective communication with our community. Please visit our website www.siena.vic.edu.au, click on School Community and then Alumnae to update your contact details or email alumnae@siena.vic.edu.au
To link to the Siena College Alumnae facebook page, scan the QR code on the right. To download the free app, QR Reader, search your smart phone.
We remember the following members of the Siena College Community Deceased
Relationship to College
Date of Death
Kay Dunn Monica McKenna Anthony McGloin (Tony) Greg McClure Phillip Masters Sr M Zita Candish OP Andrew Denholm Betty Woods Louisa Frances Walter Mary McGlaughlin Zaharias Sevastas Kathleen Patricia (Pat) Judd Thelma May Scriven Mrs Kehaidis Ettore D'Angelo Jozef Drobik Nicholas Terzopolous Pamela Collins Tristan Eddy Giovanna Lo Giusto
Mother of Deborah Dunn, Alumnae Mother of Margaret and Angela McKenna, Alumnae Father of Jane McGloin, Alumnae Uncle of Isabella Kiley, Year 7 Cousin Sr Julianna Drobik OP, Staff Dominican Sister Father of Minna Denholm, Staff Grandmother of Cara Woods, Year 9 Mother of Helena Walter, Alumnae Mother of Maureen, Grandmother Grace and Rosie Jeffries, Alumnae Grandmother Kristina Sevastas, Year 11 Mother of Catherine Judd, Staff Mother-in-law of Carolyn Scriven, Staff Grandmother of Madeleine, Year 7 and Mariah, Year 9 Grandfather of Alessia Nigro, Year 9 and Gabriella Nigro, Year 7 Father of Sr Julianna Drobik OP, Staff and Maria Dickinson, Alumnae Father of Irene Terzopolous in, Year 10 Step-mother of Libby Moore, Staff Brother of Tahlia Eddy, Year 12 Great Grandmother of Alyssa Marrone, Year 7
10 January 2013 11 January 2013 22 January 2013 24 January 2013 27 January 2013 31 January 2013 6 February 2013 2 February 2013 20 February 2013 10 March 2013 10 March 2013 26 April 2013 21 April 2013 April 2013 27 April 2013 2 May 2013 14 May 2013 15 May 2013 20 May 2013 24 May 2013
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.
SIENA COLLEGE 2013
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2013 REUNION DATES Class of 2012 One Year Reunion Friday, 6 September 4.30 – 6.30 pm Siena College Convent Courtyard Siena Connections Friday, 13 September Morning tea for Siena College generational families 10.00 am – 12.00 pm Siena College Convent Courtyard 40’s and 50’s Alumnae Saturday, 5 October Get together for ladies from 1940 - 1959 2.30 – 5.00 pm Siena College Convent Courtyard 50 Year Class of 1963 Sunday, 6 October 2.30 – 5.00 pm Siena College Convent Courtyard 40 Year Class of 1973 Saturday, 12 October 3.00 - 5.30 pm Siena College Convent Courtyard 30 Year Class of 1983 Friday, 18 October 7.00 – 10.00 pm Siena College Staff Room 20 Year Class of 1993 Saturday, 19 October 7.00 – 10.00 pm Siena College Staff Room 10 Year Class of 2003 Friday, 25 October 7.00 – 10.00 pm Siena College Staff Room 5 Year Class of 2008 Saturday, 26 October 7.00 – 10.00 pm Siena College Staff Room For further information and registration www.sienaconnect.com.au Email: alumnae@siena.vic.edu.au Tel: 03 9835 0266 SIENA COLLEGE ALUMNAE CONNECTING PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE