the Bridge The magazine of Brigidine College St Ives
October 2015
Principal’s Message
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he term, ‘holistic education’ has been bandied around for many years, almost as a marketing term for independent schools. In its best sense, it refers to the value that derives from acknowledging that the formative years of schooling are not simply about what happens in the classroom. It recognises that children need to be exposed to all that can develop them intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. They need to feel their talent is identified and opportunities exist that enable that talent to be developed to a level of competence and even to a level of excellence.
Contents 4 The Spirit of Brigidine 6 Brigidine Sisters visit Year 7 7 Year 10 Community Involvement Program (CIP) 8 Year Group Charities 9 Founders Day
This edition of The Bridge celebrates the College’s broader curriculum, all those things that we are fortunate enough to have on offer that can nurture talent beyond the classroom. This year there is a greater sense that the College is coming of age and the investments made in quality staffing, initiatives and opportunities have led to broad success in a variety of areas. This in turn has had a flow-on effect of engendering in the girls a pride born of achievement and excellence in performance. The most notable successes are those in which the College is competing at a national level. For the third year in succession since it began in the College, the Sports Aerobics groups competed in the National Finals on the Gold Coast. The Secondary Fitness squad won Gold and the Stage 1 and Stage 2 squads won Bronze at State level. The Senior Vocal Ensemble, as well as winning their local eisteddfods, came second in NSW in the A Capella Competition which qualified them for the national titles. This second place was also the second highest score of any competitor in Australia. There are a number of individual girls who have made state, CCC (Combined Catholic Colleges) and IGSSA (Independent Girls Secondary Sports Association) representation in sport, among the most notable being Mia Rolfe who will be competing at the Pacific Games in Swimming in November; our Irish dancers competed at the State Championships recently with Siobhan Lo placing first. The equestrian team came first in the NSW State Interschool dressage competition, becoming the Highest Scoring Secondary school. The Junior and Senior Relay teams competed in the CCC Athletics Carnival held in September; Pia Doyle has been selected in the 2015 Australian Sailing Youth Team; Abby Ballesty and Sarah Corfield have been contracted in the Under 20s North Shore United Netball team to play in the new Premier League which acts as a pathway to national selection. Our students have experienced success in Mock Trial, Tournament of the Minds and many other competitions and events. At this point in time, two HSC Drama performances have been selected for OnStage and we are confident other nominations in other courses will come. And what does all this show? Yes we are blessed with clever, high achieving students but they are representative of all those who involve themselves in all that is on offer. They raise their expectations, enjoy the challenge of competition, learn to collaborate and cooperate, listen to their coaches and conductors, take advice and be the best they can be. That is the beauty and the joy of educating girls holistically. Jane Curran Principal
19 Creativity 19 BrigFest short film festival 20 thExhibition 2015 22 Public Speaking Competition
Issue 2, October 2015 www.brigidine.nsw.edu.au
10 Our Community
16 Performing Arts
10 2015 Snapshots 12 Year 10 Parent and Daughter Dinner 13 Jack Andraka comes to Brigidine 14 Annual Giving 15 Masterplan Update 16 P&F Trivia Night
17 Year 11 Play 18 National A Cappella Championships 18 Dance Spectacular
26 Students 22 Cocurricular Sport and Clubs 23 2015 Highlights 25 Athletics Carnival
26 New Leaders for 2016 27 Graduation Week
28 Back to Brigidine 28 Reunions 29 Weddings and Births 30 Where Are They Now?
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The Spirit of Brigidine
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hat does it mean to be Brigidine? Many people often ask this question, especially those new to the College or interested in enrolling their daughter. The outside community regularly hears of “the spirit of Brigidine” in an overwhelming and affirming light. A Brigidine girl is known to possess confidence, courage and compassion. Throughout the year the College community has been abuzz with the spirit of Brigidine. At Brigidine the quest for justice and care for others has always been integral to our mission. The community is challenged to aspire to the quality of being ready to provide service, especially to the poorest of the poor. This resonates with the foundational elements set by the Sisters of St Brigid. Core to the patronage of St Brigid
is a commitment to hospitality and service, which strives to give expression to Gospel values. A goal in the Faith dimension of the Strategic Plan points to Social Justice; “Ensure opportunities for girls and staff to grow in understanding Christ’s mission to love and serve humanity.” It is wonderful to see so many students prepared to volunteer in the myriad of service involvements available at Brigidine. Programs such as Year 10 Community Involvement, fundraising initiatives for Year group charities and cultural immersions give substance to being Christlike. Earlier in the year a parent enquired at a Year 7 Information Evening, “I hear so much about Brigidine, my daughter can’t wait to be here. But what is it that motivates such a strong
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community spirit here?” Before I could respond, a parent, with another daughter in another Year, couldn’t resist presenting a version of her own experience of Brigidine. From her involvements she has seen the core values present in all areas of school life in her daughter’s education; from the classroom, to the sporting field, to drama and music performances, to Liturgy preparation, involvement in Founders Day, outreach experience for Goodooga and Daffodil Days. The College motto shone through in her conversation, Fortiter et Suaviter. Her daughter has displayed Strength and Gentleness in all that she encounters, with a passion for College life. This is the spirit of Brigidine. Bill Gleeson Assistant Principal Religious Formation
The Spirit of Brigidine Brigidine Sisters visit Year 7
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onnected to the many aspects of the spirit of Brigidine is the paramount legacy of the Brigidine Sisters. As the foundational pioneers of the College their impact lives on in the strong spirit which engulfs the community. With an integral goal of the College being to “embed an understanding of St Brigid and Brigidine within the daily life of the College”, the tradition of the Brigidine Sisters can be shared and enjoyed with future generations. Recently we had the privilege of hosting seven Brigidine Sisters. The visit complemented the Year 7 Religious Education program as the girls learned about the Brigidine tradition. Although the girls had researched the story of the Sisters of St Ives and had walked the College Heritage Trail, the personal one on one interactions gave the girls the best experience. The Sisters who visited were: Sr Chanel Sugden, Sr Margaret Daniels, Sr Maureen Keady, Sr Trish Garland, Sr Patricia Buckley, Sr Ann Harrison and Sr Jan O’Neill. Each Sister had a significant story to tell, with most of the nuns commencing their training in the Convent in the 1950s and 1960s, along with teaching here at the College. Even today, Sr Chanel regularly visits classrooms and supports the RE
teachers with lesson planning and resources, Sr Margaret is a member of the College Board, Sr Maureen connects with the Pioneers (Alumni) and all the Sisters are no stranger to Brigidine College celebrations. As Mrs Curran commented: “The generosity of the Sisters in sharing their stories gave the girls an insight into another time. While the College no longer operates as a novitiate, the story of the Sisters and their lives here enriches our history and gives greater meaning to our modern context.” One of the Sisters commented: “It was a pleasure to share our stories with the Year 7 girls and Staff and to be the recipients, once again, of the gracious and generous hospitality always shown to us when we visit the College.” We hope to incorporate the Sisters’ visit as a regular event in the calendar in future years. Bill Gleeson Assistant Principal Religious Formation
“The Brigidine Sisters spoke about how they have applied the Brigidine tradition to their lives and how it has brought them into a closer relationship with God. The Sisters gave us a better insight into the Brigidine congregation and the inspiring roles we can all play to continue the Brigidine spirit. All of the Year 7 girls left with a deeper understanding of the Brigidine way and how much it means to our school.” Teya Murray, Priya Uskovic, and Jemma Walsh Year 7
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My Prayer to St Brigid St Brigid, For all who have lost the will to fight in their haze of tragedy, Will you lend them your sword? For all who live their lives surrounded by desperation and poverty, Will you plant the seed of hope for them? For all who are lost in the dark, unable to find the doorway to peace, Will you be their guide to the light? Mary of Ireland, When we find ourselves shrouded in doubt, You will lift the veil, showing us the beauty of ourselves. When we lose our way, and stray from the path, You will lend a helping hand, and lead the way. When we find ourselves wrapped in our own misery, acting with ignorance, You will be forgiving, and teach us empathy, so that we may lead our lives with wisdom and kindness. Generous Woman, As humble humans, we ask of you, To help us grow as young women in your grace. Help us to befriend all less fortunate in this world, To close the gap between our lives, and become one holy image in God’s name. Weave our hearts as one, weave them into a cross of rushes, Light the spark, and show us the light, the light of God, woven through time and space, binding us all as his children. St Brigid, pray for us. Amen. Abby Ries Year 7
Year 10 Community Involvement Program (CIP)
Alexandra Cheeseman
Ellen Trimble
Brigidine College St Ives
Allambie Heights Public School
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s I am in the accelerated maths program I was given the opportunity to complete my CIP hours helping tutor maths at school on Monday afternoons. I took a lot away from this experience; not only did it improve my mathematics skills, it also gave me the opportunity to bond with girls from other Year groups. Improving my maths skills also helped me gain more self-confidence, as teaching someone forces you to consolidate the information in your mind. To any girls in younger years who are considering completing their CIP hours tutoring maths or in some other capacity at Brigidine, I would highly recommend it. Completing my program at school has strengthened my connection to Brigidine and the school community as a whole. I really enjoyed my experience and so I will be continuing my involvement in the maths tutoring program even after the completion of my CIP.
chose to complete my CIP hours at Allambie Heights Public School. My sister attends Year 6 there and I was lucky enough to be able to talk to the office about the possibility of community involvement within one of the classrooms. Upon arrival I was taken to one of the Year 1 classrooms where I would be helping for the week. All the kids were so excited to see me there and wouldn’t stop smiling and giving me hugs. During class I helped with literacy groups, listening to the children read their stories, and in maths, where we played number games involving units, tens and hundreds. It all got very competitive. My favourite part of the day was always art, which we did most
Celine Nalbandian Goodooga Central School The CIP experience has opened my eyes to the small change I can make in someone else’s life. My first placement was offered through the Goodooga Immersion early in August. The opportunity allowed me to work in an Aboriginal community as a teacher’s aide, as well as completing various tasks around the school. The immersion was an
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afternoons. At recess and lunch I was able to play with the children, getting involved in hopscotch and handball games. Going back to primary school for a week was such a rewarding experience, which I have gained so much from. I learnt a great deal of patience and I believe this will
stick with me forever. The children were so accepting of me during the week and taught me so much about understanding, friendship and learning. I hope to go back to help in one of the classrooms again during the summer holidays at the end of Term 4. amazing opportunity to both tick off hours but more importantly, work in an environment that isn’t available to me in Sydney and to make a difference in the small community. The smiles of the children when we arrived and their tears as we left showed how meaningful the visit was to them. I have loved the entire experience and strongly encourage Year 10 students in future to begin their hours as soon as possible, find a placement they enjoy and strive to portray the qualities of a Brigidine girl in whatever they choose to do.
The Spirit of Brigidine Year Group Charities
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he Spirit of Brigidine is, without a doubt, an extremely diverse and complex notion. To me, this is most prominent in the social justice-centred aspect of the College; the myriad of opportunities that have been presented to us ever since Year 7 to reach out to those in our community and in the wider society; opportunities to make a difference in someone else’s life. The exposure all
Brigidine girls have to issues from the outset of our high school education develops worldly, informed and passionate young women who have the urge to change the world. From my experience, raising funds for the RSPCA in Year 7, St Vincent de Paul Society in Year 8, cancer research in Year 9, Goodooga school in Year 10, Caritas in Year 11 and the Manly Women’s Shelter in Year 12 have been key in forming the advocacy and passion that I feel today, in regards to issues spanning all aspects of social justice. These Year group charities, coupled with countless other opportunities to get involved with other initiatives and culminating in our efforts for our Year 12 charity and Founders Day, have helped to crystallize my personal worldview. From these experiences, I have
learnt so many things – these lessons being mostly in the development of inherent qualities of compassion, empathy and advocacy. When I look around at my peers and even those in younger years, I see strong and gentle young women who are already displaying similar qualities. Girls, like me, who have a vision for the world and will strive to see it come to fruition. This vision has led me to be able to see myself in the future, working in corporate social responsibility or international law – careers that allow me to really make a difference to the lives of those in need. Ultimately, I couldn’t be prouder to say that I have come from a school in which altruism is something that is so ingrained in the values and principles of the school. From my perspective, I truly believe that this epitomises the Spirit of Brigidine. Seraphina Buay College Vice Captain – Social Justice Congratulations to Seraphina who was the recipient of the inaugural Kildare Ministries Award for Social Justice, presented to her on Presentation Day in September.
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Founders Day
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ounders Day was celebrated on Friday 19 June and acknowledged all those who have contributed to our identity and culture, the founder of the Brigidine Congregation of Sisters, Bishop Daniel Delany, and the Sisters who founded our College at St Ives. Our festivities began with Mass and we were honoured to have the Bishop of Broken Bay Diocese, Bishop Peter Comensoli, celebrate the Mass with us. Many of the Brigidine Sisters were in attendance and that is always a particular delight for us. Year 12 spent numerous hours planning this day as it is the annual fundraising event for their charity which, this year, is the Manly Women’s Shelter, whose work offers refuge and hope to many women and children who are victims of domestic violence. The International Food Fair enabled all to eat well and across a breadth of cultures. We sincerely thank all parents in our community who assisted with cooking and serving.
Year 12 ran many stalls which kept everyone entertained and supported their charity. Jane Curran Principal
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2015 Snapshots Year 12 Breakfast
Year 10 inner Parent and Daughter D
Year 7 Grandparents Day Goodooga
Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Challenge
“We enjoyed making tight bonds and unforgettable memories, working and playing with the children from Googooda Central School.” Amelia Malone, Year 10
Father's Day Mass The Bridge
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“Eight Year 11 girls travelled to Camp Wombaroo to compete in the Hillary Challenge, involving a multi-sport triathlon and a series of adventurous challenges.” Skye Wacher, Duke of Edinburgh – Teacher in Charge
Open Day “We had a very successful Open Day with hundreds of visitors and families enjoying the event and activities.”
Year 10 Social Justice Day
Di Lawrence, Director of Development and Community Relations
“A special Mothers’ Day Mass was held in the Chapel, celebrated by Fr Bernard from Corpus Christi and prepared by the Senior Six. It was a fitting gathering to pray for all mums.” William Gleeson, Assistant Principal Religious Formation
Mother's D ay Mass Year 8 Mothers Afternoon
Year 9 Mothers Brunch “This event was such a success we expect to see it permanently on the College Calendar. Thank you to all those who came along and made it such a lovely morning.” Di Lawrence, Director of Development and Community Relations
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Community
Year 10 Parent and Daughter Dinner
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ornsby RSL came alive on the evening of Thursday 20 August as our Year 10 girls and their parents attended the Parent and Daughter Dinner. It was a night to remember! College staff, parents and students enjoyed the food and the opportunity to socialise with one another. Mia Barbour produced a short film which revealed moments from Year 10 throughout the year and was very entertaining. Caroline Conlon was our amazing guest speaker. Caroline was born deaf. Her talk was extraordinary as she used a mix of talking and sign language with an interpreter. Caroline, a Brigidine alumni from the Class of 1983, is an Australian actress and director. She was Artistic Director of the Australian Theatre of the Deaf from 2005 to 2008. She talked about her work through the World Federation of the Deaf also highlighting her favourite trip to Samoa, where she provided capacity building training to National Deaf Associations with the aim of empowering
deaf people to protect their human rights. Caroline shared insight into her life of being deaf, and her inspirational story. She opened our eyes to the deaf community. Caroline’s message was that being deaf is not a disability, it just requires people to access information in different ways. Caroline gave the example of when she and a friend, who is blind, were house sitting. After shopping, it was logical to Caroline that she unpack and separate the groceries into cold and dry food piles. Her blind friend then put the piles of groceries away allowing her to recognise where things are, giving her the access she needs. She left us with the message that we must play the card we The Bridge
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are dealt in life and to make the most of every opportunity. A huge thank you to Year 10 Coordinator, Ms Reading, for her organisation. Thank you to the College Executive and our Mentors who attended. Thank you to all the staff, parents and girls who made the night very special. Ashley Roberts Year 10
Our Community
Jack Andraka comes to Brigidine “He was obviously very enthusiastic about his work and even though he has won many awards he was very down to earth and friendly. He made everyone laugh and everyone was very excited to hear him talk. His talk was very inspiring especially coming from someone who developed something so life changing at around our age.” Georgia North, Year 9
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e had the pleasure of welcoming Jack Andraka to Brigidine College in September. He is only 18 years of age and has accomplished many great things in such a short time. He spoke to some Year 7 Science students and all Years 9 and 10 students about how he invented an inexpensive early detection test for pancreatic cancer at only 15 years of age, the same age as many of the girls he was speaking to. As if this wasn’t enough, his next project was researching how nanobots can be injected into the bloodstream to detect and destroy cancer cells. He told the girls all about meeting Barack Obama, his favourite Taylor Swift song and that infamous acceptance speech when he was named the winner of Intel ISEF 2012 Science Prize. Jack shared his passion for science with the Brigidine girls and explained about writing his book Breakthrough: How One
Teen Innovator Is Changing the World. “That was fun! I’m so happy I got to tell people my story and really show kids that they too can change the world.” Leanne Miller Head of Library Services
“Listening to Jack Andraka speak to us today was very inspiring. He was engaging and passionate and really epitomised everything that I could personally aspire towards – ever since my own familial experiences with conditions that required stem cell treatment, I have been determinedly working towards becoming a medical researcher – in areas such as stem cells, cancer and genetics. All of what Jack was talking about with us today was relevant to my own aspirations and so had strong significance for me. As I’m about to finish my HSC and embark on the beginnings of university towards my dream, the talk today about Jack Andraka achieving his, despite his youth, lends hope that with bright new ideas from us younger generations, together we can all contribute to something revolutionary. That we can all have our own breakthrough moment. And that age is not a prerequisite for success.” Alice Edwards, Year 12 The Bridge
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Want to see Jack win the Intel ISEF 2012 Science Prize? Go to https://youtu.be/pmVzs3-GNBc
Our Community
Annual Giving Without Them We Wouldn’t Be Here!
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t can be quite easy to forget the significant people behind landmark moments and decisions after some time passes. It was this thought that moved us to honour the women who established our College and worked so hard to keep it going and growing.
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It was the Brigidine Sisters themselves who made the sacrifices and worked so hard to give us the College we still enjoy. Though there is still a loyal group of Sisters who visit the College and join with us in celebrations, it is timely that we ensure their efforts are recorded and recognised. To do this a beautiful glass artwork has been designed: “The Recognition of the Brigidine Sisters” for installation in St Brigid’s Chapel. But who were some of these people behind the early story of Brigidine College St Ives? We all know that they were wonderful women in habits but what else do we know? Firstly there was the cricket fan, Sister Romuald Walz, our founding Principal. She loved all things French and enjoyed teaching the language for many years. Sr Romuald was compassionate and supportive with a genuine interest in people. She loved the school so much that even after retiring would come to the school every day, visit the tuckshop and talk to the mothers who volunteered there. There was always a twinkle in her eye right through to her 90s. When she died in 2002 hers was the first-ever funeral in our St Brigid’s Chapel. Often present at our College events today is Sr Maureen Keady (Sr Germaine) – well remembered and loved by many of our alumni to whom she
taught music. Sr Maureen is a bright personality with a wonderful memory for names, faces and misdemeanours! She tells stories of Senior students who would stay back after school cleaning and tidying but then would sometimes hide the Sisters’ shoes before departing on the bus leaving the Sisters shoeless! We are also delighted to often have the company of Sr Anita Murray on many occasions. Sr Anita spent 13 years at the College as Principal but is still involved today as Alumni Patron. Sr Anita has a passion for performance and introduced the first Year 11 Play and first Brigidine Musical in the 1970s. Many alumni have fond memories of being a part of those performances. While these women are just three of many who gave and continue to give such The Bridge
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3 1. Sister Adrian with College Alumni, 1979 2. Sister Anita at the Opening of St Brigid’s Chapel, 2001 3. Sister Romuald at the beach, circa 1959
dedication to this College we believe their contribution deserves our recognition. Help us bring the “Recognition of the Brigidine Sisters” to life by making a donation to our Annual Giving Appeal. Go to our website www.brigidine.nsw.edu.au and Click on Support then Annual Giving. You can click the Donate now button to take you straight to our Payment gateway. Di Lawrence Director of Development and Community Relations
Masterplan Update
Stage 3 to commence in 2016 Annual Giving Donors
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e thank the following donors and those who chose to give anonymously. Sherryl Bremner Ruth Bridger Camilleri Family Wai Tse Chen Aleisha Conlay Margaret Cook Jane Curran Judy Dawson Cheryl Doyle Lucy Encina Lucille Flory Gillett Family Peter and Sally Gillman Angela Glover Philippa Goddard Karen Gordon John and Geok Gordon Guberina Family Liz Heffernan Emma Hines Di Lawrence Michael Liem and Cypina Tshai Lena Mak Marea Michael Silvestro and Rose Morabito Moya Morgan John Moroney Kerry-Ann O’Sullivan O’Sullivan Family Brian and Leonie Piper Kerrie Powell Ribbons Family Rolfe Family Moira Spiteri Maria Toma Toohey Family Vitoria Family Jan Whiddon
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ork is progressing well on the planning and design for Stage 3 of the College’s Master Plan. This will see extensive refurbishment and modernisation of the McCammon Wing to provide flexible learning spaces for Years 11 and 12 and improved staff facilities. Construction of new verandas to the two main levels will provide access to larger classroom spaces and seminar rooms. Teaching staff areas with rooms for meetings with students will be located on both levels. A new common room with catering facilities which will also be used for College events will be provided on the ground floor. A lift and other features will improve disability access and general student movement. The College has submitted a development application with Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council for these works and following the completion of detailed design, we expect to undertake a tender process in selecting a contractor early in 2016. Construction works are a necessary part of any school that aims to expand and improve its facilities. Importantly, schools need to ensure that such works are carried out safely and with minimal interruption to education. To this end strict safety standards will be incorporated into dealings with The Bridge
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contractors and their safety performance closely monitored. In addition, we aim to undertake the most potentially disruptive works in non-term times during Easter, July and October, with internal works occurring during Term 4 and over the December/January holidays, ready for the start of the 2017 school year. We will be strictly respecting the HSC timetable in managing the contractor’s activities. Greg Smith Business Manager
A new common room with catering facilities which will also be used for College events will be provided on the ground floor. A lift and other features will improve disability access and general student movement.
P&F Trivia Night
Top Hat...Top Night!
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here were few ‘Top’ Hats but we definitely had a Top Night at the P&F Trivia event this year. As hats were the token theme this year a vast array of amazing hats filled the room, from American Indian headdresses to the ‘Brigidine Bardot’ team who brought a touch of France with them. Bowie Hall looked magnificent and the evening began with a superb performance by the Brigidine Dance Club followed by our Quiz Master, Tim Shorter, entering centre stage in a giant Top Hat to the sound of the theme from Rocky! The online auction then added a great sense of excitement with fast paced bidding on the vast number of generously donated silent auction items. Bob Walker, from our Maintenance Team, revealed one of his hidden talents during one of the trivia breaks as he and his Unicyclist friends zipped between tables and around the stage performing tricks to the hit song You Can Leave Your Hat On.
great trivia, Best Male hat and Best Female hat and the silent auction all leading to us raising over $26,000 for the College. These funds will go towards the upgrade of audio-visual equipment in Bowie Hall. The P&F raises funds for items from the College’s ‘Wish List’ which benefit every student in the school. These events take significant planning and preparation, so I would like to thank Di Lawrence and her team, Brian Riordan and his Maintenance Team especially Rob, Bob and Malcolm, Gail Dugan, Leah Crockett, Shane Grieve and the Dance Club, the Unicyclists, Monique Chilton for her graphic design and Paul Hurstfield, our photographer, for the evening. Huge thanks also to the P&F Committee including Jim Breen, Kieran Flynn and Penny Wilkinson, volunteers who wrapped prizes, decorated the hall, sold raffle tickets and helped with general running of the evening.
Craig Marshall from Savills Cordeau Marshall, supported us with Platinum sponsorship and kindly ran our live auction: a G Brothers Mercedes for the weekend, dinner, accommodation and breakfast at Jonah’s and a Champagne picnic hamper.
However a very special thank you and well done must go to Maria Lowe and Pip Inman who have both worked endlessly to make sure this was a fabulous event and they certainly succeeded.
There were plenty of enjoyable moments with games, raffles, $1000 cash prize,
Laura Hurstfield P&F President
Brigidine Melbourne Cup Lunch
11.45am to 3.30pm Tuesday 3 November Miramare Gardens We are planning a glamourous day of fun and friendship for the women of Brigidine and their friends: • Present and past Brigidine mothers • Year 12 mothers and their daughters • Alumni All are welcome.
Top Hat...Top Night Sponsors Platinum
Gold
Your ticket includes Silver
• champagne on arrival • two course meal and cash bar • big screen of Race Day at Flemington Please go to www.brigidine.nsw.edu.au to find out more and book your table!
www.savillscm.com.au
www.brasvgroup.com.au
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Performing Arts
Year 11 Play The Brady Bunch “It’s the story… of a lovely lady …”
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elcome back to the world of the Bradys! As American as apple pie and as sweet and endearing as a bowl of Alice’s home cooked pumpkin pie, we were so pleased and proud to present our Year 11 Play 2015, The Brady Bunch, where four separate casts brought some favourite episodes to life. Originally airing on television between 1969 and 1974 The Brady Bunch ushered in the era of wide epaulettes, bell bottom trousers, fringed vests, plaid trousers – and that was just the boys! The Brady Bunch presented us with bright burnt orange colours, swishing hair, and the kind of homespun philosophy from Mike Brady where he makes sense of the world beyond 4222 Clinton Way. More recent Brady Bunch movies have reignited interest in our beloved family. Audiences loved The Brady Bunch and we congratulate this wonderful and energetic cast.
A huge thank you to Miss Leah Crockett, Mr Chris Rutherford and Miss Linda Frankham for their ongoing support and hilarity. DiAnne McDonald Director
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Performing Arts
National A Cappella Championships and Dance Spectacular Senior Vocal Ensemble The Senior Vocal Ensemble participated in the National A Cappella Championships held in Melbourne in September. The girls performed brilliantly and received 2nd place. They also received the award for the Best Comedy song with their performance of Soul Bossanova. We celebrated in great fashion with a lovely dinner and going to see Lion King the musical – we were even lucky enough to meet some of the stars afterwards!
Sunday was an early start to catch the plane back to Sydney, on which the girls gave one last rousing performance of Happy in “flash-mob” style. Passengers on the plane loved it and were clapping along, taking photos and filming it. We are all so proud of this group of girls. Big congratulations for all you have achieved this year. Charlie Lovelock Head of Cocurricular Music
Dance Club
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ur annual Brigidine Dance Spectacular was held for the very last time at Greenhalgh Theatre, UTS Kuring-Gai in August. It was a fabulous show consisting of 29 acts with over 300 students involved. The evening showcased jazz, hip hop, musical theatre, lyrical, ballet and tap, including a number of our talented soloists performing winning eisteddfod routines. Our well awarded 2015 eisteddfod group also performed three routines and the night was made extra special with a performance from our first ever HSC Dance class consisting of Year 11 students. It was a pleasure having three College alumni choreograph the majority of the routines this year. Thanks to Lauren Thompson (Class of 2009), Rebecca Back (Class of 2011) and Lauren Grieve (Class of 2013).
As my last year as Dance Club Coordinator I would like to thank all the girls that I have associated with over the past six years and I look forward to seeing what’s ahead for the Club and dance at Brigidine. Shane Grieve Dance Club Coordinator
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Creativity
BrigFest short film festival
Check out London’s winning entry here! https://youtu.be/lL0wL8ypjAM
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t was a night of Camera, Lights and Action as we celebrated the talent and creativity of our own filmmakers in August. The red carpet and star studded entrance set the scene for BrigFest entrants, actors, families and fans for our short film festival which is growing in every respect. In its sixth year BrigFest has taken another step forward with the support of industry specialists including the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS), Videocraft, East Coast Audio Visual (ECAV) and Film Depot. Each of our sponsors provided prizes to category winners encouraging their filmmaking skills, confidence and creativity. Prizes included AFTRS Open Short course and Videocraft equipment hire gift vouchers, an LED TV/DVD from ECAV and a filmmaking tutorial with Film Depot. Films were viewed by an enthusiastic judging panel which included Louise Smith
(Class of 1992), producer from Film Depot and staff: Jane Curran, Brett Harrison, Sharon Cimon, Lucille Florey, Chris Rutherford and DiAnne McDonald. An excited audience of family, friends, staff and film buffs enjoyed watching all 11 short films which contained this year’s signature item, ”bubble”. The concept was interpreted in very different ways by the filmmakers which led to the production of some excellent films. Competition for awards was keen. Andy Liell, NSW Branch Manager of Videocraft said, “I was impressed with the way the filmmakers used all the techniques available to them to produce really high quality short films.” The introduction of the Board Developed course of Photographic and Digital Media in Years 9 and 10 has been a popular elective choice for many girls. We anticipate further growth in BrigFest entries flowing on from this study.
Thank you to our sponsors: The Bridge
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Winners at the Festival were: Years 9 & 10 Category Burst by Georgia North Years 11 & 12 Category Full Circle by Seraphina Buay and Valentina Buay Best Overall Film and Year 7 & 8 Category Shatter by London Hartard Highly Commended Awards also went to Recurrence by Julia Vaccarella, Exploration by Zoe Re and Is this it? by Claudia Bailey. Congratulations to BrigFest film producers, directors, editors and actors and all those who supported this initiative which was introduced by Jane Curran in her first year as Principal at Brigidine College St Ives. Di Lawrence Director of Development and Community Relations
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Creativity
thExhibition 2015 T
he College hosted ThExibition in August showcasing a variety of HSC major works. ThExibition gives the school community an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of most of our HSC students. This year the exhibition focused on HSC Visual Arts, Textiles and Design, Design and Technology as well as major works completed in Society and Culture, Extension 2 English, Extension History and the Honours Program. Congratulations to our HSC students on the completion of their Bodies of Work in all of these subjects. Each student has demonstrated commitment and dedication in creating interesting and engaging works for the audience to enjoy. The music was provided by the Music department, Year 11 students helped serve the food and beverages, and there was a large and appreciative crowd. The night was indeed a celebration of the persistence, perseverance and accomplishments of the Year 12 students throughout the year. Thank you to all the wonderful staff who assisted in setting up and making ThExhibition such a success. Lucille Flory Acting Head of Visual Arts Congratulations to the College’s 2015 Designer of the Year Award recipients, Madison Chan (Design and Technology) and Olivia Audsley (Textiles and Design).
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Public Speaking Competition T
he finals of the annual Public Speaking Competition were held on the evening of Wednesday 2 September. Finalists were selected from each English class from Years 7 to 11. The speeches were adjudicated by panels made up of College alumni. Topics were designed to be challenging. Some of the topics were: Drawn together (Year 7) It solves nothing (Year 8) Don’t put your head in the sand (Year 9) Model of the modern woman (Year 10) Trouble in paradise (Year 11) The placegetters were: Year 7 Winner: Chloe Christie Second: Madison McGrath Third: Laura Collins
The overall winner was Ella McCrindle (Year 11). Ella presented her speech to the audience after being announced as the winner. Her speech was witty and perspicacious. Our guest speaker was Angie Asimus (Class of 2004). Angie spoke about her career as a TV journalist and news reporter and showed footage of her roles as weather presenter, journalist, red carpet reporter and anchor of broadcasts. Special thanks to Ms Fernandez and Ms Frankham for organising the competition. Brett Harrison Head of English
Year 8 Winner: Penelope Godfrey Second: Olivia McNamara Third: Meaghan Collins Year 9 Winner: Larissa Navarkas-Pettersen Second: Ciara Flynn Third: Zarina Mangal Year 10 Winner: Valentina Buay Second: Isabel Toohey Third: Jorja Lush Year 11 Winner: Ella McCrindle Pat Moran Prize for Runner Up: Francesca Rowlinson Third: Dominique Bennett Highly Commended: Lara Czysnok
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Cocurricular Sport and Clubs
Highlights for 2015 Centre for Excellence
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eams from Years 7 and 8 competed in the da Vinci Decathlon at Knox Grammar School in May. Although there was tough competition, our Year 7 team was placed first in Art and Poetry and 7th in Code Breaking. Year 8 was placed 8th in English.
Year 7: Alannah Darling, Claudia Dixon, Lucy Eyres, Penelope Lovell, Teya Murray, Abigail Ries, Jane Shin, Priya Wheatley. Year 8: Meaghan Collins, Abby Johnson, Neena Karunakar, Abbey Lenton, Olivia McNamara, Auria Nunes, Madeleine Reid, Michelle Williams.
The Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Award is based on service in the community and leadership achievements that demonstrate commitment to the advancement of the status of women worldwide. This year’s Brigidine entrant in the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai competition was Seraphina Buay, College Vice Captain (Year 12). Seraphina was awarded runnerup in the competition which was fabulous! Our Mock Trial team competed extremely well and finished the season with two wins and two very close losses. The girls won against Masada College and Hornsby Girls High School and were narrowly defeated by Knox Grammar School and Normanhurst Boys High School. The Tournament of Minds was held at Roseville College in August. Brigidine entered four teams in the Social Sciences Challenge called ‘You are the Biggest Link – Goodbye’. All teams performed to an
Above: Pearl, Seraphina and Andrew Buay
excellent standard and we were delighted when Team 2 was awarded Tournament Honours! Congratulations to Samantha Hoefnagels, Ella Forrest (both of Year 7), Auria Nunes, Shantel Nanayakkara (both of Year 8), Junyi Fang, Sylvia Kim, Isabel Zhu (all of Year 9) and Facilitator, Eloise Ott (Year 11). Jan Whiddon Centre for Excellence Coordinator
Sailing Pia Doyle (Year 12) has been selected in the 2015 Australian Sailing Youth team.
Netball Abby Ballesty and Sarah Corfield (both of Year 11) have been contracted in the Under 20s North Shore United Netball team to play in the new Premier League which acts as a pathway to national selection. Ashley Fong (Class of 2009), currently coaching at Brigidine, has also been selected in the Opens North Shore United Netball Team to play in the new Premier League.
Irish Dance
Equestrian
Irish dancers Bianca Keating (Year 7), Kahli Gilchrist (Year 8) and Siobhan Lo (Year 9) recently competed at the State Championships. Siobhan Lo placed first and went on to compete at the Nationals during the October school holidays.
The equestrian team came first in the NSW State Interschool dressage competition and placed first, becoming the Highest Scoring Secondary school. Congratulations to team Ashleigh Wiseman (Year 11), Kate Mayjor (Year 11), Eloise Bacon (Year 10), Sydney Evans (Year 10, pictured above) and Ella Barney (Year 9).
Swimming Mia Rolfe (Year 9) will be competing at the Pacific Games in November.
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Above: Sarah Corfield, Ashley Fong and Abby Ballesty
Cocurricular Sport and Clubs
Highlights for 2015 Athletics
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rigidine students produced outstanding performances both individually and as a team this year. At BBSSSA Brigidine placed first in the overall school point scores; first in the Senior (16/17 years) division; first in the Junior (12/13 years) division and third in the Intermediate (14/15 years) division. In addition Brigidine students broke seven individual records and two relay records. Three girls, Emily Parker (18+ years) Melissa Fitzsimmons (17 years) and Ta’alili Feaunati (12 years), won their Age Champion point scores. A total of 23 girls qualified to represent BBSSSA at the NSWCCC competition in September. Two days after BBSSSA, with most athletes still recovering from their mammoth effort, Brigidine travelled to the annual IGSSA competition. With the support of all Year 7 as spectators, the
School Aerobics Two Brigidine Aerobics teams travelled to the Gold Coast, Queensland, to represent the College and NSW at the National School Aerobics Championships in August. Our Fitness team took on some of the most incredible competition they have ever experienced, including clubs who have competed at International level. After a long year of preparation our girls performed their routine to the highest standard and were rewarded with a top 5 finish in this elite division.
team lifted itself to achieve more great results with many girls making finals and the team finishing in 12th place overall, despite a number having to withdraw from finals due to injury. Congratulations must go to the Brigidine Relay teams who performed so well this season. The Junior team won at BBSSSA and were runners up at NSWCCC and NSW Schools Relay Championships. The Intermediate team also won at BBSSSA and placed at NSWCCC. However the most outstanding results came from the Brigidine Senior team – Laura Welch, Melissa Fitzsimmons, Emma Welch, and Emily Parker - who were undefeated all season. The team was successful at BBSSSA, IGSSA, NSW Schools Relay Championships and NSWCCC; and in the process set a new NSWCCC record time of 49.90 sec. A special mention must be made of Mr Darryl Welch who has guided the team to all of their successes over the past six years. An excellent result for a School team taking on the best clubs in the country. Fitness team: Sophia Tonoli, Emma Shlager, Chloe Grant, Jessica Villegas, Anna Dunn, Anna Supierz, Madison Kelly. There was notable improvement by our Stage 2 girls since their qualification at the State Championships with a Bronze medal and while not achieving an all-around medal this time the team is showing great potential for further success in the future.
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Senior relay team: (pictured) Emma Welch, Laura Welch (both of Year 12), Melissa Fitzsimmons (Year 11), Emily Parker (Year 12). Intermediate relay team: Isabelle McLennan (Year 8), Isabelle Ronksley, Bronte Gaughan, Camryn Woolley (all of Year 9). Junior relay team: Claudia Vidulic, Natarsha Vidulic, Jemima Guberina (all of Year 7), Madelin Owen (Year 8). Dave Chant Athletics Convenor
Stage 2 team: Grace Christensen, Ruby Magee, Teisha Wiseman, Isabella Geftakis, Amber Jones, Kate Shaw, Laura Wheen. Josh Holmes Sports Aerobics Convenor Below, left: Stage 2 team; below: Fitness team
Interhouse Competition
Athletics Carnival Final House Point Score
Records Broken:
Place
House
Score
Girls 17–19 Years 400m Run Emily Parker – Prague – 1:02:02 sec
1st
Prague
768
2nd
Lourdes
638
Girls 17–20 Years Long Jump Melissa Fitzsimmons – Lourdes – 5.50m
3rd
Fatima
629
4th
Kildare
555
Girls 12 Years Discus Ta’alili Feaunati – Kildare – 31.38m
2015 Age Champions Year
Ist Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
12 Years
Ta’alili Feaunati
Holli Raaff
Tara Dean
13 Years
Nicola Markley
Charlotte North
Lauren Pilling
14 Years
Isabelle McLennan
Kaddison Van Rhoon
Junyi Fang
15 Years
Isabelle Ronksley
Bronte Gaughan
Grace Christensen
16 Years
Courtney Young
Clare Elder
Sophie Wright
17 Years
Emma Welch
Melissa Fitzsimmons
Alison Colgan
AWD
Juliet Liddy
Ellen Hester
Beatrice Martin
Open 100m Invitational Champion
Isabelle Ronksley
Athletics Champion 2015
Isabelle Ronksley
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Students
New Leaders for 2016 House Captains
College Captain Alexandra Bradley
Fatima Captain Vice Captain
Maddison Ronksley Lucy Pirrie
Kildare Captain Vice Captain
Justice and Democracy Captain Vice Captain
Olivia Mueller Elle Miller
Languages Captain
Mimi Rosenbaum
Sarah Corfield Holly Furness
Lourdes Captain Vice Captain
Mock Trial Captain Vice Captain
Erica Rounds Barbara Honeysett
Eliza Tysoe Georgia Nolan
Prague Captain Vice Captain
Music Captain Vice Captain
Georgia Nolan Tiegan Denina
Aimee Carroll Sophia Barratt
Netball Captain Vice Captain
Sarah Corfield Lucy Pentelow
Cocurricular Clubs and Sport
Public Speaking Captain Vice Captain
Francesca Rowlinson Dominique Bennett
College Senior Vice Captain Eloise Ott
Art Captain Vice Captain
Bianca Yeung Lucy Pirrie
College Vice Captains Francesca Rowlinson Academic and Student Leadership
Athletics Captain Vice Captain
Melissa Fitzsimmons Alison Colgan
Lucy Pentelow Cocurricular
Basketball Captain Vice Captain
Fiona Grace Georgia O’Sullivan
Dance Captain Vice Captain
Swimming Captain Vice Captain
Olivia Findlay Ellen Hester
Lisa Vaccarella Adele Samus
Taekwondo Captain Vice Captain
Mimi Rosenbaum Mahek Bansal
Lara Czysnok
Tennis Captain Vice Captain
Lucy Pentelow Kristi Wilkinson
Textiles Captain Vice Captain
Sarah Boccanfuso Lucie Malone
Abby Ballesty Houses and Sport Lara Czysnok Social Justice
Year Ambassadors Georgia Callaghan-Gilmour Monique Lewis Laura Slocombe Sophia Tonoli Bianca Yeung
Debating Captain Drama Captain Vice Captain
Eliza Tysoe Aimee Carroll
DEA Captain Vice Captain
Merryn McClean Kate Menzies
Football Captain Vice Captain
Lianne Merlo Emily McGain
Hockey Captain Vice Captain
Jemima Pfaff Sophia Barratt
Honours Captain
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Softball Captain Vice Captain
Kate Menzies Merryn McClean
Sports Aerobics Captain Sophia Tonoli Vice Captain Emalee Callaghan-Gilmour
Touch Football Captain Vice Captain
Amelia Littler Alyce Kassis
Volleyball Captain Vice Captain
Emma Vinci Maddison Holland
Water Polo Captain Vice Captain
Chelsea Reed Abby Ballesty
Students
Graduation Week
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Back to Brigidine Reunions Class of 2014 Yearbook Collection Afternoon Tea
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t was a great afternoon of fun, laughter and excited chatter when the Class of 2014 returned to the College to collect their Yearbooks. There wasn’t much time to enjoy the delicious afternoon tea as the girls were too busy catching up and exchanging stories about their new lives at university, training college, full time work or their gap year. Some of the varied areas of study the girls have taken include Social Work, International Relations, Health Science, Fashion Design, Forensic Medicine, Journalism, Public Relations, Animal Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Law and Primary Teaching. We wish them every success in the coming years.
Pioneers Reunion The theme of this year’s Pioneers Reunion was ‘Peace and Harmony’ to coincide with Harmony Day, the United Nations International day for the elimination of racial discrimination. This Reunion brings together the first ever students of Brigidine College St Ives from the 1950s and 1960s. Sr Maureen was the moderator for the Paraliturgy celebrated in the Chapel and College Principal, Jane Curran, presented gold St Brigid’s crosses to the Class of 1965 who became Golden Girls, recognising 50 years since their graduation. At the High Tea that followed the Pioneers enjoyed travelling down memory lane with recollections sent by Diana Clocchiatti (Class of 1965) who now lives in Italy.
ground floor. The Sisters’ living quarters were on the first floor. It was fenced off by a thick row of trees with a small opening facing the main road, which we used as the students entrance. The bus stop was also there. The school bus went from Pymble station to Hassell Park and back and, much to our delight, the boys from St Ives Grammar School also caught it. Classes were from 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. The main subjects were Religion, English, Maths 1 and 2, Geography, Ancient and Modern History, Art, Music, Biology, Home Science (cooking) and Sport. Friday was Sports Day where you could take part in ball games: captain ball, tunnel ball, softball, vigoro, athletics and tennis. I can still see the
“Brigidine College in the early sixties was just a single building. There was a long corridor, three classrooms, a domestic science room and the Chapel on the
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tennis coach Mr Lindo, in his perfect long creams and large white Panama hat, patiently hitting forehands and backhands all afternoon. We brought the ingredients from home for Home Science to bake our much loved Anzac biscuits and date rolls, and one day during an electrical storm the domestic science room caught fire!” It was a special day for all who attended. Wendy Baxter Alumni Coordinator
Back to Brigidine
Weddings and Births Bonnie Bayley (nee Cleaver) Class of 2000
Evelyn (Evie) Victoria
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married Dominic Bayley on 11 April in the beautiful Blue Mountains. We met at Sydney University over 12 years ago and have shared many adventures together. The ceremony was at Everglades Gardens in Leura and the reception was at Westhill, a private property in Blackheath. It was a ‘homespun and heartfelt’ vintage/DIY wedding through and through, with lots of personal elements. Dominic spent hours painting native flowers for the wedding stationery, we sourced most of the decorations and props ourselves, and had fun creating rose petal confetti cones, vintage vases, bunting and hanging artworks to go behind the bridal table. Mum made her famous scones and jam for our afternoon tea and her signature cakes and slices for dessert. The Blue Mountains put on its best show for our guests, with sunshine (despite raining that
Lindsay Gilroy College Vice Captain (Class of 2000)
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indsay married John Pennings on Friday 16 January at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Manly. She met John (a well-known Sydney jazz musician) at the Manly Jazz Festival. Both are professional musicians, so music played a major part in their Nuptial Mass. Lindsay was attended by her sister, Samantha (Class of 2006), as Maid of Honour, and Alethea Tomkins Pulley (Class of 2000).
very morning!), clear skies and vibrant autumn leaves.
Featured in the Manly Daily at 39 weeks and 3 days pregnant and still driving her Forest Coachlines bus, Shelley Parker (nee Barber, Class of 2000) had a daughter on 16 July, ten days late, Evelyn (Evie) Victoria weighing 3.33kg. Evie was named after Shelley’s great grandmother’s name and Victoria was husband, Matthew’s, grandmother. “Having a newborn baby takes a lot of time and patience. We are finding being parents delightful and challenging at the same time”.
My best friend, Amy Bain (Class of 2000), was there, which meant so much to me. She also helped create some of our beautiful floral arrangements. All up, we had the most marvellous day! We spent our honeymoon exploring the temples, tea plantations, national parks and beaches of Sri Lanka – the perfect place to visit for sight-seeing and some relaxation. as well as Brigidine identity Mrs Patty Bowie and former Science teacher Mrs Nikki Grieg. A reception followed at Moby Dicks, Whale Beach, and guests were again treated to a fantastic evening of music and celebration. As a large portion of their mutual friends are professional musicians there was no shortage of players joining the band on the night, including the Groom himself, who blew the roof off. After a honeymoon in Thailand, Lindsay and John have settled down in their home at Warriewood and are both leading very busy lives.
Other Class of 2000 alumni members attending the celebrations included Katie Gibson, Michelle Nash, Katrina Mark, Veronique Gaudry, Erin Poirot (nee Anania) and Laura Regan (nee Galvin and College Vice Captain 2000), as well as Christina Grace (nee Livermore, Class of 1999) The Bridge
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Eliza Victoria Edmunds Christine Edmunds (nee Stoten, Class of 2001) gave birth to daughter, Eliza Victoria Edmunds, on 23 July. Eliza was born 6 weeks early at the Mater Hospital, weighing just 1.83kg and 45cm long.
Back to Brigidine
Where Are They Now? Louise O’Gorman Class of 1985
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am very grateful that I received my school education at Brigidine College St Ives. However, I must admit that I was not the ideal student and will probably be remembered more for being in Sr Anita’s office on a regular basis, than anything else. After Brigidine I was too rebellious and undisciplined to commence university so I took a gap year in Perisher Valley which turned into 9 years, working in ski resorts around the world and travelling in-between seasonal work, much to my parents’ dismay. This travel, however, was an incredible education that taught me exceptional life skills. I had always saved money while I was at school and after working three jobs had a deposit to buy my first rental property at 18 before I travelled. I returned to the “real world” and sold that rental property to buy a Bakers Delight franchise.
Nicola Pittner (nee Martin) Class of 2000 I’ve been fascinated by food and health ever since suffering from chronic illness through my years at Brigidine. Interested in food, health and my immediate environment, I somehow found myself studying a Bachelor of Science (Hons) majoring in Food Science at UNSW and later went on to work in food product development for Sanitarium Health Foods. I never really saw myself turning towards science, but when you are interested in how the human body works, somehow all that biology and chemistry really starts to make sense! My real passion was health and I soon gained employment as a clinical trials assistant at Roche Pharmaceuticals. Years later I still work in Roche Australia’s Clinical Operations department and have managed clinical trials in Australian hospitals and global trials across various countries within Asia Pacific. I really marvel at how I ended up in this job – a role that is interesting, challenging and extremely rewarding.
The hard work in hospitality jobs throughout my travelling years had given me an excellent grounding for running my own business. With a lot of hard work, perseverance and luck I worked my way from the ground up to become a successful business owner of two Bakers Delight franchises in Sydney and later a Muffin Break franchise in Canberra, where I met my wonderful husband Mark Barnard, the former Head Coach of the Australian Women’s National Volleyball team. He was offered a job in the US and officially joined the Oregon State University volleyball staff in 2005 and he now begins his 11th season with the program. My role involves implementing and delivering clinical trials to patients who suffer from serious diseases due to unmet medical needs. I work primarily in oncology, particularly breast cancer. I’ve contributed to the development of novel technologies that have improved patient’s lives in the areas of lymphoma, leukemia, various other cancers, as well as some other rarer indications in ophthalmology, cardiovascular and chronic pulmonary diseases. What makes me remember why I do what I do everyday, is when I know I have a patient on my study who has possibly given up hope and may have no other treatment options left, who may come on my clinical trial and gain a major health benefit or extension of life through access to a novel medicine. In all honesty, I never knew the world of science could offer such an interesting and rewarding career. My quest for inspiring good health doesn’t stop at my day job. I’m still passionate about food and leading a healthy lifestyle. Maybe it’s through
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We have set up a start-up company and run volleyball clinics across the US, live streaming these events through our website www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com. We sell monthly, six-monthly and annual memberships and the website business is growing exponentially. After moving to the US I recommenced my real estate career. With the guidance of incredible mentors, I have purchased/ sold over 100 properties in both Australia and the United States. I purchase rundown properties that need some love and attention with the goal of creating something wonderful for our tenants. Our company currently owns 84 rental properties with a mixture of apartments, town homes, vacation rentals, houses and vacant land. I have always followed my dreams and even though they have been unconventional at times, I have become a successful entrepreneur. I believe this is owing to the solid foundation I received early in life from my parents and the gift they gave me – a Brigidine education. learning how precious life is, that I am passionate about continuing the impact I can have on public health from a personal perspective. A couple of years ago, my husband and I started a healthy and sustainably inspired food blog, Celery Meets Beetroot, where we aim to inspire people to make healthy vegetarian food choices to support healthy living and prevent chronic diseases.
Back to Brigidine
Heather Bell (nee Galvin) College Captain Class of 1997
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s Rio Tinto Coal Australia NSW regional manager for resource development, Heather was selected from more than 500 nominations in the first 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining Project, undertaken by Women in Mining (UK) in 2013. The Project identified 100 women from a range of backgrounds for their outstanding contribution to the industry and their positive role modelling on those around them. Heather, who has worked in a range of site, technical, corporate and managerial roles, is currently the youngest manager and the only female in her team, which works across two states. After completing her high school studies at Brigidine, Heather completed a Bachelor of Mining Engineering, graduating with First Class Honours and a University Medal from the University of NSW in 2001. “I started my career as a mining engineer and through determination and hard work gained two statutory tickets while working in the Hunter Valley. Those qualifications enabled me to have the statutory
Ashley Doyle Class of 2002 ShoreTel, Distribution Manager for Australia and New Zealand
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ack in 1997 when I started at Brigidine College students carried around books, not laptops, and we had dedicated Computer Lab Rooms to learn about computers and the internet. I remember the novelty of getting my first email address. Never did I imagine that 15 years later I would have a career in the IT sector, particularly without an Engineering or Computer Degree. Perhaps I had not grasped the way in which technology would become so integrated in our social as well as professional lives, nor the diversity and opportunity of roles and jobs available. My perception of IT all those years ago would fit more the characters of “The Big Bang Theory”.
responsibility for the safety of people and the mine site during a designated shift and take on mine manager positions. I then progressed to become the first female open cut examiner and shift boss at one of NSW’s largest open cut coal mines when I was 27. Since then, I’ve returned to Rio Tinto Coal Australia, have been promoted twice within the company while on flexible working arrangements after having my first child, moved into my new position, taken home the “Top Gong” at the Queensland Resources Council’s annual Resources Awards for Women in 2013, completed my AGSM Executive MBA and given birth to my second child.” Heather resides in Brisbane with her husband and two daughters and is currently working in the QLD regional manager role. Having completed a degree in Agricultural Economics I began working for a bank, based primarily in a Sales and Account Management role. Through a network of contacts I was introduced to a Regional Manager for an American Telecommunications company that had recently launched in Australia. I was drawn to the organisation by their “go get” approach, fresh outlook of team based work as well as the unique technological offering the products delivered. Moving into ShoreTel was a whirlwind experience. Not only did I have to learn the basics of a technology I knew nothing about, I had to adjust to the rate at which technology changed and be prepared to constantly keep learning. The Bridge
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I was given the unique opportunity of managing accounts across Australia and New Zealand which meant lots of flying and learning to live out of a suitcase. Whilst the IT and Telecommunication industries have a tradition of being male dominant and are perceived to be only relevant to those with a technical degree, the last 5 years have shown me that the sector is opening up and beginning to encourage more diversity, not just with gender, but ethnicity and experience. There are positions available in the ever changing and growing technology sector even if you are interested in marketing, accounting, design or teaching. I’m certainly proud and excited to be part of it and open to the opportunities it brings. I may still have that same email address created in 1997, but to be reading emails from a mobile on a plane from Los Angeles to Orlando is certainly a revolution of the way we work.
Term Dates 2015 Term Dates for Students
2016 Term Dates for Students
Term 4
Term 1
Wednesday 7 October: TERM 4 COMMENCES
Thursday 28 January: Year 7 and New Student Orientation Day
Friday 4 December: TERM 4 ENDS
Friday 29 January: TERM 1 COMMENCES Friday 25 – Monday 28 March: Easter Friday 8 April: TERM 1 ENDS
Term 2 Monday 25 April: ANZAC Day Wednesday 27 April: TERM 2 COMMENCES Monday 13 June: Queen’s Birthday Holiday Friday 24 June: TERM 2 ENDS
Term 3 Tuesday 19 July: TERM 3 COMMENCES Friday 23 September: TERM 3 ENDS
Term 4 Tuesday 11 October: TERM 4 COMMENCES Friday 2 December: TERM 4 ENDS
Reunion Dates 2016 Class of 2006 10 Year Reunion Saturday 22 October Contact: Wendy Baxter alumni@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
Class of 1996 20 Year Reunion Saturday 22 October Contact: Wendy Baxter alumni@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
The Bridge October 2015 Editor: Aleisha Conlay Development and Community Relations Department Brigidine College St Ives Artwork: www.somersaultgroup.com.au
Class of 1986 30 Year Reunion Saturday 22 October Contact: Wendy Baxter alumni@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
Class of 1976 40 Year Reunion Saturday 22 October Contact: Wendy Baxter alumni@brigidine.nsw.edu.au
Brigidine College St Ives A Catholic Independent Secondary School for Girls 325 Mona Vale Road St Ives NSW 2075 Australia www.brigidine.nsw.edu.au