The Collegian December 2017 Volume 23 Number 2
THE COLLEGIAN
IN THIS ISSUE: Academic Achievement, Learning Matters, Mission, Sports, Alumni News
CATHOLIC LADIES’ COLLEGE
A YEAR 7 TO 12 GIRLS' SECONDARY COLLEGE
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FROM THE PRINCIPAL values of Mary Aikenhead Ministries. In the words of Sr Linda Ferrington, Trustee of Mary Aikenhead Ministries, hope is “A driving dynamic of Mary Aikenhead Ministries … it is that spirit which holds us together; it is our energy, our sense of aliveness, indeed our sense of commitment and mission. If we had nothing to hope for, there would be no purpose for our ministries.”
Welcome to this November edition of the Collegian. Hope Transforms has been the theme for this year and is one of the four
And in the words of one of our Year 11 students, Lucy Nimmo, “hope is everywhere you just need to find it.” This has definitely been the experience of our community in 2017 who has been energised by change, embraced challenges and celebrated the wonderful achievements and efforts of students and staff members across a variety of areas both within and external to the College.
In 2017 we have revisited our mission and purpose. As part of this reflective process, members of the College community were invited to participate in a variety of feedback opportunities. What became evident from the feedback gathered was that students, parents and members of staff place great value on courage, resilience, empathy and integrity. In 2018 we will continue to develop, acknowledge and celebrate each of these in all aspects of College life. I extend my appreciation to all who have contributed to Catholic Ladies’ College this year. Wishing you and your families all the blessings and joy of Christmas. Mrs Stephanie Evans Principal
WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP Another inspiring Women in Leadership forum was held this year at which three past students, addressed a gathering of wider community members. Our presenters were all past students. Lara Poloni (CLC 1986), AECOM Chief Executive of Europe, Middle East, India and Africa which covers 60 countries with 26,000 employees. Anna Clarke (CLC 1980), CLC Board member and Director of Human Resources, Private Hospitals Division at St Vincent’s Health Australia and Anne Marie Harrison (CLC 1976), CEO of the Victorian Institute of Sport. Former CLC Principal, Sr Patricia Nunan RSC, who attended the event, fondly remembered both Anna and Lara and was not surprised by their achievements. She was extremely impressed and captivated, as was the entire gathering, with these successful, empowered women of integrity. L-R Ms Anne Marie Harrison, Ms Anna Clarke, Mrs Stephanie Evans, Ms Lara Poloni Ms Anna Clarke (CLC 1980) Director of Human Resources - Private Hospital Division St Vincent’s Health Australia Ms Lara Poloni (CLC1986) Chief Executive of AECOM - the largest global design, engineering and construction services firm. Ms Anne Marie Harrison (CLC 1976) Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Institute of Sport.
Term 1, 2018 commences for Years 7 and 12 on Thursday, 1 February 2018 and the remainder of the school return on Friday, 2 February 2018.
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Courage Resilience Empathy Integrity
CELEBRATING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
CONGRATULATIONS 2018 STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM Newly elected 2018 Senior Student Captains were congratulated by the College community at the final College Assembly. We wish the new Captains all the best for 2018 and gratefully acknowledge the outstanding commitment of our 2017 College Captains. It is our hope that their CLC Leadership journey rewards them in their future beyond CLC.
L-R
College Co-Captain - Lily McCarthy, College Co-Captain - Brigette McVeigh, Mission Captain - Maddison Heckmann, College Sports Co-Captain - Shania John, College Sports Co-Captain - Georgia Kerr, Visual Arts Captain - Ruby Lam, Performing Arts Captain - Olivia Tomada
STUDENT LEADERSHIP 2017
Each member of the Student Leadership Team 2017 received a framed College Captain's pocket at the final Assembly for their outstanding contribution to College life. (L-R): Georgie Aidonopolous and Abbey Beare, College Co-Captains, Chloe Cook, Mission Captain, Magdelene Antypas and Abbey Turnbull, Sport Co-Captains, Peyton Leete, Visual Arts Captain, Stephanie Brock, Adele Greenwood and Georgia Cox , Social Justice Co-Captains and Natalie Hackett, Performing Arts Captain.
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CELEBRATING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
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OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS 2017 CALTEX ALL-ROUNDER AWARD
SCHOOL SPIRIT AWARD Margaret Rankin presented the School Spirit Award to College Co-Captain, Georgie Aidonopolous Congratulations, Gerogie!
St Judith Peart RSC and Sr Elizabeth Costigan RSC both former CLC students, presented The Caltex All-rounder Award to Xanthe Sefton. Congratulations, Xanthe.
Mary Aikenhead Ministries Social Justice Award
PATRICIA RYAN LOVE OF LEARNING AWARD The Patricia Ryan Love of Learning Award was presented to Jacqueline Eyres in honour of former CLC Principal, Ms Patricia Ryan OAM, by Dr Helga Neidhart RSC.
This Award was presented on behalf of the Trustees of Mary Aikenhead Ministries by Professor Gabrielle McMullen, to Adele Greenwood for her commitment to the service of others. Well done, Adele!
Margaret Cross Award
ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Awards
The ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Awards, sponsored by the Australian Government, were presented to Year 12 student, Natalie Hackett (left), by Year 12 Team Leader, Mr Brian Pearce and to Year 10 student, Charlie Seivers (right), by Year 10 Team Leader, Mr Richard Smith.
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The Margaret Cross Award was presented to the very dedicated Bridget Pilatti by Mrs Margaret Cross, former CLC PE Teacher. THE COLLEGIAN - VOLUME 23 NUMBER 2
CELEBRATING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
Courage Resilience Empathy Integrity
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS 2017 Janette Clarke Award
Congratulations Magdelene Antypas. Her commitment to College Sport saw her awarded the 2017 Janette Clarke Award. Janette Clarke’s parents Mrs Pauline and Mr Allan Clarke and her sister and staff member, Mrs Debbie Willoughby presented the award to Magdelene.
NATALIE VITA WRITER’S AWARD
The Natalie Vita Writer’s Award was presented by Natalie’s parents, Mr Mike Vita and Mrs Val Vita, to Samantha Ryan. Well done, Samantha!
DR JANE WESTERMAN
Excellence In Mathematics Award
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD Congratulations to Abbey Beare who was presented with the Community Service Award by Ms Emily Abrahams representing Ms Vicky Ward MP
COLLEEN SMITH AWARD Mr Mike Westerman and Ms Sally Harris were pleased to present the Jane Westerman – Excellence in Mathematics Award to Charlotte Mikic. Congratulations, Charlotte!
Commitment in the Face of Challenge
Jacqueline Ryan Collegial Award
The Jacqueline Ryan Collegial Award was presented to Mikayla Grisinski by Jacqueline’s parents, Mr Kevin and Mrs Jan Ryan and sister Brooke Ryan (CLC 1998).
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Board Member, Mr John Kennedy, presented the 2017 Colleen Smith Award – commitment in the face of challenge, to a worthy recipient, Samantha Ryan.
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LEARNING MATTERS
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AWARDS DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD As a pathway to the La Trobe University Aspire program, self-motivated Year 12 student, Elise Hor, was keen to complete her Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award. Aspire rewards the skills and knowledge students gain through community contribution with a conditional early offer into courses at La Trobe. While Elise changed her mind about attending La Trobe midway through completing her Duke of Edinburgh Award, she was pleased that she had applied herself to this year long, internationally
SWANNIE DAV DEBATING AWARD Year 12 student Adele Greenwood has been awarded the Debating Association of Victoria ‘Swannie’ Award, having achieved the highest average points for each of her debates in the region. Adele has been a committed and passionate member of the College Debating Team over several years. Well done Adele!
recognised award. Elise says she has grown in confidence, is more outgoing and learnt valuable leadership skills. She has found it helped her school and developed the life skills of organisation, motivation, resilience, courage, independence, responsibility and team work. Elise is also a keen violinist and has been playing for many years. As a Year 12 student, she finds it helps her concentration, especially playing music from the baroque period. Music is very calming, violin and classical music sits well with maths and science. You can learn and work as a team or play in an ensemble but you still need to practise on your own.
quite meditative. I would like to study Architecture or Engineering – I like the idea of a career combining the arts and sciences, and I will always have my violin!" – Elise Hor, Year 12
“The metronome beat synchronises with the heart beat so it helps focus and is
SAGSE SCHOLARSHIP Congratulations Year 12 student Charlotte Mikic on winning a prestigious AustralianGerman Student Exchange (SAGSE) scholarship to spend 10 weeks in Germany following her VCE exams. Well done Charlotte!
Right: Adele Greenwood with Miss Liana Colaluca and Ms Jessica Vassallo
MONASH SCHOLARSHIP The Faculty of Engineering at Monash University congratulates 2017 Scholarship Recipient CLC student, Laura Hall (CLC 2016) Above: Charlotte Mikic
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THE ARTS
Courage Resilience Empathy Integrity
2017 ART EXHIBITION
Congratulations to the following students who were presented with awards for their creative pursuits at our VCE Art Exhibition: (L-R) VET Fashion Award Natalie Hackett Visual Arts Award Courtney Leete Media Award Josephine Desmond Visual Communications and Design Award Bridey O’Leary Principal Award Bridgit Callipari
Above: Past student, Ms Mariella McKinley (CLC 1997)opened the Art Exhibition, speaking with humility as an accomplished artist and with great pride in CLC where she and her three sisters attended.
2017 PRODUCTION ALICE IN WONDERLAND Student Production leaders of this year’s production of Alice in Wonderland hoped that audiences would: “enjoy watching the show as much as we have enjoyed making it! We tried to create the absurd world of Lewis Carrol’s text, and hoped to show that Alice’s dream helped her to discover the importance of RESPECT; respect for others, respect for learning and respect for herself - as we have done through this journey”. The audience’s reactions and feedback, assured the leaders of their success!
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LEARNING MATTERS
www.clc.vic.edu.au
INDONESIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION The Year 12 Indonesian class attended the 72nd Indonesian Independence Day celebration at the Indonesian Consulate. The first part of the ceremony involved flag raising, singing, and lines of marching by both Indonesian flag raising troops as high school students from Indonesia. A chance to speak with other guests allowed us to be fully immersed in the culture, which we all had come to love. It was a great opportunity to put our skills into practice. Learning Indonesian at school has not just taught us to speak in a different language; it has evoked a great understanding, appreciation and love for Indonesian culture. Abbey Bear and Bridgett Pilatti, Year 12
ART ACHIEVEMENT Year 10 student, Lauren Eyres (10E) created an artwork in Year 9 that was exhibited at the 2017 Catholic Education Visual Arts Exhibition and was chosen by the CEM as part of its publications. Well done Lauren!
SOFTBALL SUCCESS Congratulations to Rhianna Carter-Smith who played Softball in a team with players from all over Australia. The team won the Murri Women’s Softball Tournament. Having played in Japan earlier in the year, Rhianna has had a successful year in her chosen sport. Well done Rhianna!
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MISSION
Courage Resilience Empathy Integrity
SISTERS OF CHARITY STREET RETREAT 2017 - HOPE TRANSFORMS Over the holidays, eight CLC students participated in the annual five day Street Retreat hosted by one of our sister schools, St Vincent’s College, Sydney. Over 100 students from nine different schools were able to experience a wide variety of activities which focused on helping those who are experiencing poverty or homelessness. They were also able to learn more about the work of the Sisters of Charity and getting to know students from other schools with the same spirit.
If I had to choose one word to describe this experience, it would be "Hope". I found this trip, while exposing us to those invisible Australians, also proved that there is always a way to help improve the lives of those who are struggling. By seeing what tragedies occurred in history, we learned what can be done to not let it repeat itself. By listening to the stories of both experienced social justice workers and people who have been lost due to hard times
in the past, we have been able to learn what truly is the reality for many people first hand. Lastly, by applying what we learned to actually assisting with people currently struggling in life, we gained knowledge of ways in which we all can provide opportunities of a second chance to those who absolutely need and deserve it - even if that is through learning the value of a simple smile of acceptance. – Jennifer Ashworth, Year 10
MATHS AND SCIENCE PRIMARY SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS Grades 4 and 5 girls and boys from our local primary schools have enjoyed visiting CLC after school for our after school Science Enrichment and Maths Enrichment Programs. Several programs have been attended by over 100 students over the year. Waiting lists are a testament to the popularity of the programs. Activities included making slime and bath bombs, constructing and launching rockets, dissecting a brain, Maths Puzzle Trails and a Knights Tour Maths activities challenge. Given the success of these programs, planning has already commenced for 2018!
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SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS
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JUNIOR A SCSA NETBALL WINNERS This year CLC had great success at the SCSA Netball competition held in Waverley. Three teams: the Junior A, Junior B and Senior A all won their grand finals on the day. Senior B had a very close game, but unfortunately did not quite get there in the extra time. CLC continuously shows a great level of sportsmanship and represents the school in a good manner. Congratulations to the following students who were awarded by the umpires for the Most Valuable player on the day: Chloe Gray (Senior A), Tess Budge (Junior A) and Nieve Tenni (Junior B).
Back L-R Georgina Bugeja (nee Audley CLC 2003), Charlotte Jones, Tess Budge, Beth Hosking, Beth Spence, Bailey Thompson Front L-R Amy Channon, Kate Nayler, Beth Spence, Tess Wright
JUNIOR B SCSA NETBALL WINNERS
SENIOR A SCSA NETBALL WINNERS
Back L-R: Tony Regan, Jacinta Ward, Laura Hall, Aisha Nolan, Nieve Tenni, Georgia McVicker, Ailish Donegan, Mikayla Hawkins Front L-R: Mia Ritter, Jessica Butterworth, Felicity Carns
Back L-R: Chloe Gray, Rachel Watt, Taylah Wright, Emily O’Brein Front L-R: Emma Phelan, Caitlin Mefflin, Matilda Blakey
SENIOR TABLE TENNIS WINNERS This year we had a lot of girls try out for table tennis and the teams all worked really hard in training. We went to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre at the beginning of this term to compete against five other schools. The other teams served up some tough competition but our girls rose to the challenge. In the end, the juniors finished 3rd the intermediates 5th and the seniors won in a nail biting grand final. The most valuable grand final player went to Hannah Novalijia in Year 11. Congratulations to all the girls for their amazing effort and sportsmanship.
Back L-R: Shania John, Hannah Novalija, Jess Roughsedge, Alicia Cole, Briony Candy, Monique Cross Front L-R: Reeti Excell, Ruby Suter, Georgia Kerr, Katelyn Tinno
JUNIOR SOFTBALL WINNERS On Monday October 16th, the softball team headed for Jells Park to enjoy a fun day out on the diamond. Both the juniors and intermediates made the grand final, while the seniors just missed out by a marginal percentage! Congratulations to the juniors (coached by Celia McDonnell) who brought home the title and great effort to the intermediates who just lost (7-6) in a nail biting finish. A special congratulations to Kate Nayler who was named the junior Most Valuable Player on the day. A big thank you to all the girls who participated as well as our three amazing coaches, Mrs Kirley, Mrs O'Neil, Miss Audley and Mrs McDonnell.
Back L-R: Jacinta Ward, Claire Vander, Kate Nayler, Alana Poulton, Molly Hefferman Front L-R: Olivia Gardner, Tiarna Graham, Stephanie Katiforis, Elyse Mifsud, Julia D’Agostino
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ALUMNI NEWS
Courage Resilience Empathy Integrity
Vale Let us remember in our prayers our deceased Old Collegians and their families, in particular: Edwina Patricia Donoghue (nee Sullivan CLC 1941), affectionately known as Teddie. Therese Deak (nee Duncan CLC 1967) April 2016
2018 Dates to remember Reunions Date 5 and 10 year reunion 18 month reunion 20 year reunion 30 year reunion 40 year reunion 50 year reunion
Friday, 13 April Thursday, 2 August Saturday, 18 August Saturday, 1 September Saturday, 15 September Saturday, 20 October
For further details please contact Mrs Marianne Roberts 9439 4077 or email mroberts@clc.vic.edu au
'Schoolies' week 1952 It’ is a far cry from ‘schoolies’ week in the 21st century, but these girls from the Class of 1952 ……possibly the first ever to do so………..had the time of their lives celebrating the end of their high school years in a modest cottage by the sea in Sorrento. Just to make sure their behaviour was just what was expected of a CLC girl in the 50's, they were chaperoned by the President of the Old Collegians’ Committee, a past pupil herself.
Old Collegians' Luncheon
Mary Roche (nee Rush) standing at the back L-R: Joan Cullen (nee Miller), Angela Laffan (nee Evans), Joan McKenna ( later to become Sr Joan McKenna), Mercia Gleeson (nee Rush), Marion Pomroy (nee Miller), Jillian Sebire (nee Brace) and Frances Hamilton (nee Chamberlain)
Fast forward to 2017 Old Collegians’ luncheon at Di Palma’s in Kew. How wonderful to see that these friendships have continued for over 60 years.
L-R Jillian Sebire (nee Brace), Joan Cullen (nee Miller), Frances Hamilton (nee Chamberlain) and Mercia Gleeson (nee Rush)
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Celebrating Achievements leader in childhood infectious diseases, particularly emerging infectious diseases of the brain in children and infections in the developing fetus and newborn, passed from mother to child. Her current role also includes leading and inspiring the next generation of young paediatricians, child health educators and researchers. Cheryl gets much joy and satisfaction from this. In her new role, Professor Jones’ first address was at the Royal Children’s Hospital Grand Rounds on International Women’s Day this year where she focused on how fortunate she was to have been born in a country where she had the opportunity to receive the education required in order to pursue her career path.
Professor Cheryl Jones (CLC 1981) Congratulations to alumna Professor Cheryl Jones on her appointment as Stevenson Chair of Paediatrics and Head of Department at the University of Melbourne - the first woman to fill this role since its inception in 1962. Cheryl is an Infectious Diseases specialist paediatrician at the Royal Children’s Hospital and an internationally recognised research
Jessie Herbert (CLC 2005) After finishing CLC Jessie was not sure what her career path would be; however, she had always had a strong interest in fashion and decided to start with retail and work her way through the ranks. Eventually, with a business partner, she created Nakedvice after discovering the huge niche in the Australian market for good quality leather bags that were affordable, yet on trend. This business has since come a long way since being a casual idea, discussed over dinner, back in 2013. Once the idea of Nakedvice was hatched, it hit the ground running and has not stopped. Since launching online in April 2014, Nakedvice has caught the eye of many bloggers and influencers
Cheryl loved school and felt lucky that she just knew early on at high school that medicine and paediatrics was what she wanted to pursue …….and that this meant hard work.
the US where she worked at Boston Children’s Hospital as Infectious Diseases Fellow and did work for her PhD at Harvard Medical School and the University of Sydney. She returned to Australia with her young family to take up roles as a Specialist Paediatrician in infectious diseases and Academic Professor at Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney. Cheryl attended CLC from 1976 1981 and remembers being part of an amazing year group who did not, at the time, realise how lucky they were to be part of such a great community. She credits her academic interests and excellence to very inspiring, wonderful and supportive teachers including Morag Fraser, Chris Blake, Jill Francesconi, Kate Gillespie, Raimonne McCutcheon and Mrs Jach…..just to name a few.
After leaving CLC, she completed a six year medical degree at the Universities of Melbourne and Tasmania, followed by an intern year at Flinders Medical Centre in Adelaide and then six years on the job training in paediatrics at the old Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children (RAHC) in Camperdown, Sydney. Cheryl then travelled to
The College was relatively new when Cheryl began secondary school in the mid 70s. Eltham was still a semi-rural area and the College was situated with a beautiful outlook. Initially there were just netball courts and a big paddock. There was not a lot of development within sport and the oval, where House Sports were eventually conducted, plus the tennis courts came later. Drama was strong but the music programme limited.
across the globe. In just three short years it has expanded from an online platform into over 60 boutiques across Australia, with international growth into America and Japan in 2015 and Canada in 2016.
each stage of the design process. Her attention is also on production schedules and adhering to delivery timelines, in order to deliver the highest standard to Nakedvice customers.
Jessie’s previous roles working for other companies allowed her to gain extensive knowledge in sales, operations, management, production and design. Having overseen multiple sides to a business was the perfect steppingstone for her to launch Nakedvice.
Nakedvice also employs two CLC alumnae on its staff – Ebony Arter (CLC 2008), who is the National Sales Manager and Emily Short (CLC 2014) who is a Production/Design Assistant.
The business focuses on being skilled in trend forecasting which enables it to create commercial, stylish, quality products that everyone can enjoy without breaking the bank.
Cheryl’s reaction to the brown school uniform of the 70s and 80s was that it was ‘not very attractive at all’ and she and her friends were convinced that the yellow terry towelling ‘Chicken Suit’ that they had to wear for sport and PE was deliberately designed by the nuns to make them as unattractive as possible to the opposite sex! Her school day memories include the tradition when senior students became teachers for the day and ran the school; going to school socials and meeting boys with her cohort of friends; crying over her hairdo for the debutante ball and being rather brazen and drinking champagne on the lawn on the final day of school! To this day, Cheryl feels very lucky to have been part of a lovely cohort of girls. There were no friendship pressures, no expectations and she felt very happy at school. There are a couple of school friends who have remained life-long friends (Karen Magree (nee Woolfe) and Julie Norris (nee Harman) and she refers to them as ‘pearls’ of people who define true friendship. Cheryl’s role as Stevenson Chair is a demanding and challenging one but, as she says, she is ‘not happy if I am not busy.’
The pace is frantic and challenging but Jessie would not have it any other way.
From developing mood boards to constructing sample packs and selecting materials, Jessie oversees Above: L-R Emily Short (CLC 2014) and Jessie Herbert (CLC 2005)
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Rania Abouzeid (CLC 1992) Rania Abouzied’s life now is far removed from her days spent as a student at CLC in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Years later she is an awardwinning print and television journalist in the Middle East, very familiar with the history of the region, how it impacts on current events and how the social and cultural conditions shape today’s news. One of five daughters of Lebanese immigrants, all of whom attended CLC, she grew up in Australia but travelled to Beirut during its civil war for family vacations. Her profile online states that she has: • received fellowships with the European Council on Foreign Relations, New America, and the Ochberg at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, as well as residencies at Yaddo and the Carey Institute’s non-fiction program. • written for TIME, the New Affairs, National Geographic, Politico, The Guardian, the Los The Australian, CSM, and a publications
Yorker, Foreign Foreign Policy, Angeles Times, host of other
• appeared on France 24, BBC, CBC, CBS, PBS, Al-Jazeera and Channel 4 to name a few television and radio outlets. • given talks and participated in panel discussions at Princeton, New America, John Hopkins’ School of Advanced International Studies, Harvard University and many other institutions in the US and Europe. Here is a snapshot from a recent interview Rania did for World Policy Journal (28 July 2017) about reporting from Syria and what lies ahead for the war-torn country. WPJ: You talk about how growing up, you would frequently travel back to Beirut to visit family, even during the civil war. Your takeaway was that in war, there was life in Beirut. Is that a message that you see also applying to Syria? And how does a journalist cover daily life amid so much tragedy and violence? RA: I do think that; I’m always looking for life in the destruction. Life continues and is often more vibrant and more energetic, simply because the cheapness of death increases the value of life in some way. You feel it more. It’s more intense. Like
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I said, this is a lesson I learned in childhood, and it is one that permeates all of my work, as does the fact that I like to focus on real people. Because I think that when you do that, it doesn’t matter how complicated a story is. If you bring it down to the level of a person—that this happened to somebody, or somebody did this, that somebody saw this, or somebody is affected by this in x way—then it becomes easier to understand. That’s my approach to journalism. It’s a privilege and an honor to be entrusted with people’s stories and I never for a minute forget that. You have to imagine yourself being the person on the other end of that notepad and pen, being asked the questions. Sometimes, I’ve talked to people in the worst circumstances, having the worst day of their lives. You know you always have to be cognizant of the fact that you’re talking to a real person, not just a contact, not just a source, not just somebody you can quote for five minutes and walk away from. This is a real person, with real needs and real emotions. You have to treat them as such while never dropping your skepticism, no matter how emotional the story. Then, you can hopefully contribute something to the bigger picture, which is how I view my role. I’m just another journalist contributing a piece of the jigsaw and together, collectively, we all help unravel complex conflicts or issues. Rania’s first book No Turning Back. Life, Loss and Hope in Wartime Syria - will be published by Norton in March 2018. An amazing journey.
Marielle Yeoh (CLC 1998) Winner of the 2017 Money Manager IT Innovator of the Year Award As Chief Financial Services Officer for Property Exchange Australia (PEXA) – the world’s first online property exchange platform – Marielle Yeoh has been at the forefront for bringing Australia’s vast number of lenders online. Residential property remains Australia’s largest asset class, yet until recently, properties were still exchanged and settled manually. Marielle’s agenda was to ‘push the boundaries to make life simpler.’ An influential business leader, Marielle has transformed the way lenders process property transactions in this country, effectively helping the banks digitise their most valuable asset class. Over the past 12 months, Marielle has brought 130 financial institutions (representing 98% of the Australian mortgage lending market), onto PEXA’s online property exchange To move the industry online quickly required unprecedented cooperation from Australia’s vast banking community in coming together, under Marielle’s guidance, to collaborate on the development and execution of the way in which property should be exchanged in Australia. By moving property transactions online, Marielle and her team at PEXA, have enabled property owners to benefit from a fast, safe and more efficient property exchange process, free from delays caused by manual errors. Marielle is also currently working with notfor-profit group ‘Homes for Homes’ which is building the capacity of lawyers and conveyancers to make small financial donations when competing a transaction on PEXA. These funds go directly into the building of affordable housing for Australia’s homeless.
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ALUMNI
Celebrating Achievements Nerida Conisbee (nee Slizys CLC 1990) Real Estate Australia (REA) Group Chief Economist What you did you do post CLC? I graduated in 1990 from CLC and then studied economics at Melbourne University. At the time I didn’t really know what I wanted to do but loved maths (thank you Mrs Fransceconi!) and liked how economics was able to use maths in real world situations. I ended up doing a Masters and my first job was as a Research Assistant to Professor Ian Harper at the Melbourne Business School. What influenced your decision making? I started working in the property industry straight after working at the Melbourne Business School and was offered a job working for a consulting firm that specialised in forecasting shopping centre sales. I worked in consulting for around 10 years and then went to work for JLL, a large commercial real estate agency. During that time I had two children, Anna and Tom, now aged
11 and 9 years respectively. From JLL I went to Colliers, another agency, where I became Head of Research working throughout Australia and Asia. I travelled a lot in this role, spending time primarily in Sydney (where I now live), as well as Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai. In mid 2015 I was approached by REA Group to become their Chief Economist. It was a big decision to leave Colliers as I loved that job but also because the role was quite different. My role at REA Group is heavily media focussed. Although I was in the media a little bit in previous roles, I am now in some form of media every week, talking about the state of the market. What does your role involve? I am a property market commentator and analyse trends in residential and commercial property. I appear every Saturday on SkyNews Real Estate program, write a fortnightly column for The Australian covering off real estate issues impacting Australia and I am the property commentator for Eureka Report. In addition to
this, I am quoted and appear in a wide range of Australian media outlets including digital, print, television and radio. I also provide content for REA Group’s websites including realestate.com.au and realcommercial.com.au.
What do you enjoy the most? I love my job. I get to liaise with lots of different people – from first home buyers to CEOs of major property companies. I also enjoy the media side of my role.
My role involves a lot of writing, presenting and analysing and being interviewed.
Brighid Donovan (CLC 2014) Brighid Donovan (CLC 2014), has had an interesting journey since leaving CLC in 2012 to attend SEDA (Sports Education Development Australia) College in order to pursue a career in a sport related field. Although Brighid completed her VCE at SEDA, an ongoing injury meant she had to look at other options. She then turned to fashion and has not looked back. Brighid commenced a mid-year intake at RMIT and completed an Associate Degree in Fashion Textiles and Merchandising. The highlight for her, so far, has been a six month exchange between RMIT and FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York – which she absolutely loved! The experience was priceless. Brighid is currently studying the Bachelor of Fashion (Merchandise Management) back at RMIT. 'My exchange experience was one that was worth all the hard work I put in to get there. I was constantly inspired by the wonderful city of New York, FIT and the array of brands and industry professionals I came across. The trip confirmed the direction I want to take my career, which is directed toward sustainability, whether that be in fashion or in other industries. New York is an eye opening and exciting place, one which I plan on returning to again.'
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Felicity Walter (CLC 2008) Alumna, Felicity Walter (CLC 2008), is continuing to pursue her love for music and the Performing Arts as a performer in folk rock band 'Run Rabbit Run' which has just released their debut EP Bloodline. It has been described as ‘selfassured music that challenges the boundaries of folk’. Felicity plays keyboard and sings backing vocals. The band has toured both interstate and in Victoria to promote their music. Felicity works as Mission and Social Justice coordinator for primary schools at the St Vincent de Paul Society where she has set up Mini Vinnies groups, runs workshops and provides social justice resources for teachers.
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corporate events all over Melbourne. Her first musical was in 2010 in the Candy Man, and she has since been involved in ‘Diamonds’ directed by Jason Coleman at the infamous Spiegeltent, and CLOC’s musical, ‘Legally Blonde’ at the National Theatre. In between her contracts and gigs, Madison also assists with the running and choreographing of various shows and teaching at Eltham’s ‘Elite Dance Studio’. Just to top it all off and so that she doesn’t get bored, Madison has continued with her involvement as a NBL Melbourne Tiger/United cheerleader for the past three seasons and will continue to do so for one more season!
first challenge on summit day was the Grey Tower. Usually more covered with snow and ice, this unrelentingly steep section surprised us by being a true rock route this season. Some beautiful airy traverses followed as the sky grew lighter and then it was finally time for some ice action. The snowy, overhung ‘mushrooms’ proved challenging and I wished for a second ice tool. Summit fever took hold on the last steep snow slope and the distance between my partner and I grew wider. Popping out onto the cricket pitchlike summit and taking a brief stroll up and back, I perched over the top of the last line, willing Philipp to climb faster. Everest, Cho Oyu and Lhotse formed part of the majestic Himalayan panorama before us. This felt very close to the top of the world! Suddenly we realised that, just like Alice’s White Rabbit, we were late, so very, very late! We needed to start our descent. Darkness overtook us several hours later and the temperature dropped to around -34. We continued tandem abseiling; trying not to stab each other’s lower limbs with crampons, we tested each anchor and line. Suddenly we dropped .….about 5metres into nothingness. We had managed to rip out an anchor point.
Madison Beck (CLC 2011) CLC 2011 Sports Captain, Madison Beck, leads an exceptionally active and busy life in the Melbourne entertainment scene as a dancer, choreographer, singer, actress, model and cheerleader. After completing her VCE, Madison studied full time for two years at ‘Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance’ Performing Arts school where she graduated with certificates 3 and 4 in dance, gaining both a high distinction and a scholarship to study at Broadway Dance Centre in New York City. In 2015 Madison travelled to Los Angeles after being accepted in an internship program with renowned choreographer Dana Foglia. A few months later, she gained a scholarship to study at the Broadway Dance Centre in New York for three months. Madison’s next move was to Sydney, working with Marko Panzic in his ‘Dream Dance Show Business’ course in order to pursue other entertainment opportunities. She landed a contract working in Macau for six months at Studio City’s resident show ‘Franz Harary’s House of Magic’ and from there she was contracted to take on China for two months working with SDT Entertainment, travelling and performing with Asian artists. Madison flew straight back to the USA from China, where she took part in filming episodes for renowned American TV show ‘Master of Illusion’. This was filmed in LA and will be aired in the USA on the CW network in December 2017. She has only recently returned from a short three month stint, once again in Macau, where she was made an offer to return to Studio City. Madison has worked for performers Samantha Jade, Red Foo, Timomatic, Tim Campbell, Honey Sighn (in conjunction with MTV India), Baz Luhrmann, Havana Brown, DJ Spineasy, Joel Fletcher, DJ Tigerlilly, SCNDL and various
THE COLLEGIAN - VOLUME 23 NUMBER 2
Anna Bolmat (CLC 1995) Climbing Ama Dablam ‘The drop into nothingness came without warning… and we jolted to a halt in the darkness.’ Presenting a heady combination of technical challenge and aesthetic appeal, Ama Dablam (6812m) commonly called ‘The Mountaineer’s Mountain’ is located in the Khumbu Valley, Nepal. It is a stunning peak which dominates the skyline for the many trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp. Labelled “unclimbable” by Sir Edmund Hillary, the mountain was summited for the first time in 1961. I had admired her intimidating ridgeline since my first trip to the Himalayas almost ten years ago and had returned to make a bid for the top. My partner, Philipp, and I took a leisurely week to trek to base camp, enjoying nights in teahouses, carb loading and swapping stories with trekkers and climbers from all over the world. We followed the canyon carved out by the icy Dudh Koshi River before having our last apple pancakes in the small village of Pangboche, leaving the main trail and heading up to Ama Dablam base camp.
Whether it was the thin air at 6500m or simply exhaustion, neither of us batted a frozen eyelash. There was a whole lot more downhill to get through and the icy wind had not shown any signs of abating. Thankfully the next anchor, about 50metres above, held - we were still connected to the mountain. With limited options and too exhausted to panic, we moved on. Twenty-two hours after setting out, we made it to camp 2.7 and a sole, unoccupied tent, perched precariously under giant icicles. Crushed by the long day we curled up, teeth chattering wildly, and waited for sunrise. Bright sunshine thawed us as we descended to camp 2 where warm down sleeping bags, hot drinks and food felt like five star luxuries. Unfortunately, as we packed up each camp and gained kilo after kilo of gear, the summit euphoria was evaporating. Mountaineering is largely an exercise in determination, from the planning and preparation through to the execution; however, the return on investment is unparalleled. It tested our technical skills and resilience but much of the joy of the expedition was to be found in simply being amongst the Himalayan giants, switched off from everyday life and focusing on what was around us……..something that everyone should aspire to.
Unlike most climbers on the mountain, we were climbing without the assistance of guides or Sherpas. Using three camps above base camp, we spent the better part of two weeks shuttling gear and food between base at 4500m and camp 2 at 5900m. Acclimatisation is absolutely critical for high altitude mountaineering and by doing the hard yards ourselves, we minimised the risk of suffering altitude sickness. Setting out in the inky darkness from camp 2, our
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ALUMNI
Class of 1967
Class of 1977
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50
YEAR REUNION
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YEAR REUNION
THE COLLEGIAN - VOLUME 23 NUMBER 2
ALUMNI
Class of 1987
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Class of 2015
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THE COLLEGIAN - VOLUME 23 NUMBER 2
YEAR REUNION
MONTHS REUNION
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ALUMNI
Classes of 2012 and 2007
5 & 10
YEAR JOINT REUNION
Girls from the Class of 2007 caught up with some of their Year 7 buddies from the Class of 2012 at a joint reunion.
IT IS WITH JOY WE CELEBRATE NEW LIFE! Kate Aumann (nee Gilmartin, CLC 2009) In September this year, Matt and Kate Aumann announced the safe arrival of their first child, a beautiful baby girl, Temperance Bernadette Aumann. Our very best CLC wishes to this new family. Kate is currently on leave from work at Distance Education Centre Victoria and enjoying motherhood.
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Elizabeth (Lizzie) Ballantyne (nee Henry, CLC 2001) Nurse Lizzy Ballantyne and her husband Scott welcomed with love their second child, Charlie Hugo Ballantyne in June. A little brother for Henry to get up to mischief with. Congratulations and best wishes to you all.
BABIES Sonia Devlin (nee Moretto, CLC 2008) In April, James and Sonia Devlin welcomed their second child, son Wyatt James Devlin, a little playmate for two year old daughter Isla. Sonia, who graduated with a Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours, is continuing to enjoy motherhood whilst working part time at Jets Gymnastics.
THE COLLEGIAN - VOLUME 23 NUMBER 2
WEDDINGS
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ALUMNI WHO HAVE RECENTLY BEEN MARRIED
Jessica Short (CLC 2008) and Michael Dalgleish Jessica Short and Michael Dalgleish were married at Immerse Winery, Yarra Valley. Jess was attended by her sisters Lauren Short (CLC 2010, Maid of Honour) and Elizabeth Short, together with Simone Azzopardi (CLC 2008) and sister-in-law Kate Dalgleish (CLC 2003) Jess is currently working for a web design and online marketing company as a copywriter. Our very best wishes to Michael and Jess.
L-R Kate Dalgleish, Lauren Short, bride Jessica Short, Simone Azzopardi and Elizabeth Short.
Natasha van Noorden (CLC 2006) and Owen Castley Earlier this year medical sales specialist Natasha van Noorden (CLC 2006) married Owen Castley at a beautiful coastal wedding in Lorne. The bridal party included the groom’s brothers, James and Myles, and two of Natasha’s school friends, Geri Gaffney (nee Hiser CLC 2006 ) and Chrissie Dalgleish (CLC 2006). We wish Natasha and Owen a lifetime of happiness.
L-R: Michael Richard, Sarah Jarman, James Castley (standing), groom Owen Castley with bride Natasha van Noorden, Geri Gaffney and Chrissie Dalgleish and Myles Castley
Vanessa Dragoli (CLC 2009) and Michael Motta Primary school teachers, Vanessa Dragoli (CLC 2009) and Michael Motta, celebrated their marriage at St. Dominic's in Camberwell East. Vanessa’s sister, Renata Dragoli (CLC 2012) and best friend Belinda Smith (nee Ortega, CLC 2009) attended the bride, along with two of her cousins. Wishing Vanessa and Michael a happy and fullfilling life together.
L-R Christine Breletti, Giacinta Garotti, Renata Dragoli, bride Vanessa and Belinda Smith.
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www.clc.vic.edu.au
College Sports Co-Captains Magdelene Antypas and Abbey Turnbull
THE COLLEGIAN CATHOLIC LADIES’ COLLEGE 19 DIAMOND STREET ELTHAM VICTORIA 3095 PHONE: +61 3 9439 4077 FACSIMILE: +61 3 9431 1157
WWW.CLC.VIC.EDU.AU