1997 Silver and Green

Front Cover Design

Catherine Copley

Catriona Oliver (Photography)

This year the theme for Silver and Green highlights all of the different options and activities that are available at MLC Somehow, the word 'multiness' was created to communicate this The mirror ball has many facets which combine to make a whole image, much like MLC

The background has many images illustrating different aspects of MLC There is the idea of reflection created using dark black on black and reflecting gold areas, which links the concept of MLC's multiplicity to the mirror ball The set of 'multi' words in the subheading symbolise different areas of 'multiness' and reflect off the mirror ball creating dynamic movement

Thank You

Thank you must of course go to Ms Walsh who has contributed an enormous amount of time and effort to the magazine this year Thanks to Ms Deriu for time spent on organisation and her efficient and concise editing (or proof reading as the editors would like to think!) It is very true that without them we would not have been able to compile and publish Silver and Green

Mr Rawson's expertise has helped us realise that there is more to computers that just word processing! Thanks also needs to be delivered for his energetic courier skills

Not many people realise the extent of time contributed by students to complete Silver and Green We are grateful for their commitment, especially those of the Layout Team who devoted the first week of their September holidays Thanks to Catherine for a fantastic and innovative cover design

We hope you appreciate and enjoy this year's edition of Silver and Green, and hope it surpasses all expectations!

From Your Editors,

Page Layout Layout Team Design

Louise Kent

Mel Wilshire

Alysia Hill

Emily Barnes

Judith Graham

Louise Kent

Ms Tara Walsh

Alysia Hill

Marianne Tai

Mel Wilshire

Catherine Copley

Photography

Stacey Rosengren

Catriona Oliver

Laura Fitzgerald

The Layout Team (L-R): Mel Wilshire, Marianne Tai, Judith Graham, Emily Barnes, Louise Kent, Alysia Hill

Laura Fitzgerald

Melissa Wei

Emily Barnes

Graphic Images

Joelene Tee

Catherine Copley

Emily Barnes

Alysia Hill

Louise Kent

Staff

Ms Laura Deriu

Ms Tara Walsh

Mr John Rawson

September 13th, 1997

Saturday afternoon, 3:01pm

We're sitting here in the sun, thinking, struggling to create an eloquent editorial What can we say, "It's brilliant!" "What is brilliant," we hear you cry? For crying out loud- it's the 1997 edition of 'Silver and Green'!

Our wonderful Principal, Ms Rosa Storelli, spoke of MLC girls being more like a slice of multigrain bread rather than the traditional white bread However, what ingredients are needed to make up this deliciously exciting combination of grains?

"Multiness," cries Laura, "a sort of multifaceted outlook!"

"What?" exclaims Melissa "Since when was 'multiness' a word Laura? Give me that dictionary..."

"Sorry about the mess Hang on, I'll just make my bed."

"Don't worry, it doesn't matter I'm just excited about being here I've never been to the Boarding House," marvels Laura Out comes the computer, out come the articles and down sit the editors Melissa's room-mate is stressing about her dead fish, talk of pimples begins, loud music emmanates from the next room and in walks Deena Dhabher (Year 12 boarder)

"Deena! Maybe you can help us! We need a theme for Silver and Green, something surrounding the theme of 'multiness.'"

"How about multistars?"

Laura and Melissa look at each other in astonishment

"That's it!"

"Hey, that's my idea! Do I get to be in 'Silver and Green'?"

Of course she could be in the magazine That was the whole point Take one look around MLC and you'll see a multitude of multiness in everything that constitutes the MLC community We are a multifaceted school, as the cover suggests

September 13th, 1997

Saturday afternoon, 3:29pm

"Is Emily going to ring us today, Laura?"

"Yeah, I'm sure I gave her my number."

"She's not still doing her Graphics CAT?" "No, no that's over with now."

We both know that Emily is working hard, designing the page layout, drawing graphics and meticulously cutting out the

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photos needed for those double spread collages, and working on her CATs!

Two days before production starts The articles are written, the photos have been taken and we sit and wait... "But I'm sure multiness is a word!" "Look," responds Melissa, slightly more frustrated this time The saga continues.. We received our first article before the article deadline The highlight of our day was running to each other commenting on the number of disks we'd just collected from the box at Staff Centre This year the process of handing in articles was slightly different to what had happened previously Girls were asked to hand their articles in on disk and this was to save time for the layout team who generously gave up the first week of their September holidays to prepare the layout of the magazine, led gallantly by Emily, our Graphics Editor

September 13th, 1997

Saturday, early evening, 4:00pm Still here, in the not so sunny sunshine, the cool wind starts to blow We start to wonder how the magazine will result. It's been a long haul, but there's a sense of satisfaction lingering over us We have aspired to relay our vision to you so that you too may obtain an understanding of what it takes, and at the end of a long day, what it means to be a member of this "multistar" community

1997 Silver and Green Editors: (L-R)

Emily Barnes, Melissa Wei, Laura Fitzgerald

Principal

Ms Rosa Storelli

Explore the curriculum, see the faces, hear the languages, witness the pace, feel the excitement At a single glance, the diversity within our College is evident A multiplicity of thought and opinions and the belief that great minds think differently enables Methodist Ladies' College to be proud of its breadth and variety

The unique features of MLC are widespread A College located in the city, but which also has a remote wilderness campus A College which values residential experiences existing alongside family units A College which utilizes expensive technology, but equally values the time spent giving and gaining from numerous Community Service Programs

A College providing for rural Victorians as well as International students. A College which values and preserves past traditions, but also has the confidence to create its own future A College which provides a secure environment for its students, but also encourages the exploration of the wider world A College which provides structure, security and comfort, but also demands students become independent and resourceful

A College which encourages contact and involvement in our local community and which also provides global learning opportunities in both Europe and Asia A College which encourages our community to view the world with a broad vision and to question and challenge issues Such is the "multiness" of MLC

In educating our students for the 21st Century and in order for them to be well prepared for the inevitable challenges they will face, our students need this diversity of experiences For us all to be confident and caring learners and leaders in a society which is increasingly ethnically diverse, and where respect for the dignity of the individual and the rights of all are critically needed, this diversity is viewed as our strength

We will continue to cultivate and celebrate the diversity which makes our College stand apart and we acknowledge that this "multiness" gives our College our purpose, our energy and obviously contributes to our vision

Fundamental to our ethos is the sense of our College being united by our convictions that a broad exposure to opportunities and experiences will provide us with focus and direction for all future planning; and foster qualities of understanding, respect and acceptance of differences that unite us as a community and contribute to our uniqueness

There is no doubt that Multiness Links Community

Welcome to MLC, an independent Girls' School of 2200 lively students who are busily constructing the future

At MLC we believe in providing a huge range of opportunities so that their potentialities are liberated and they flourish as innovative, energetic, thoughtful young women who have a global focus and who are confident and capable of creating tomorrow's world and care about improving

MLC is a school if ideas and imagination; of science and technology All students from Grade 5 upwards own laptop computers so there are 2000 laptops in the College Access to the Internet is from 650 points around the College Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Science and Ethics, Environment Science, General Science are offered in the science program Languages include Japanese, Indonesian, French and German Visual Arts includes Ceramics, Painting, Graphics, Woodwork, and Drawing Vocational Education and training Marshmead - an outdoor campus where Year

courses are offered Drama, Sport, Debating, 9 students go for eight weeks The list goes on

MLC values diversity; each person matters The school is large, but the teaching staff make it small

Head of Senior School

Mrs Susan Jarrett

When I was asked to reflect on the 'multiness' of MLC, my mind was moved to mull over a myriad of moments.

The organisation seems to consist of a multitude of ideas - new ideas, old ideas, well tried ideas, stimulating ideas At the core of the organisation is the multi-dimensional nature of learning that is taking place All of us, students and teachers are learningtogether, in small groups, in large groups, independently, visually, aurally, orally, verbally, numerically, spatially - in as many different ways as there are people living and working together here

We are all multi-talented - as writers, artists, scientists, mathematicians, technologists and business people And each of us is multi-skilled - using our writing skills to craft scientific reports as well as the most sensitive response to an emotive issue; adding facts and data to support a persuasive argument and using computer skills to hone and shape material until it shines like a jewel in the sun

We are a multicultural community - wherever we were born or from whatever family background we originate, we can all contribute our individual experiences and perspectives to enrich and broaden our shared lives

There is a multiplicity of courses and programs that Senior School students can put together There are 620 students in Senior School and very few are taking exactly the same program One of the strengths of MLC is that no-one is forced into a predetermined pattern Students can select a course, amend and modify, shape and direct their program in response to their changing needs and interests

We can think of MLC as a multi-sited campus, with four schools, Marshmead, exchanges and excursions, overseas expeditions and the world available to everyone via the internet on their own laptop Work and learning are not confined to when we are within 'the old grey walls' - it goes on at home, on the train and tram - almost with every breath that we take

In fact, if our lives were not so multifarious, they would seem very monotonal and monotonous We like our 'multiness'

Head of Middle School M

Mrs Debbie Dunwoody

"Multiness" in the Middle School is a very multifaceted issue Under the surface of the Middle School community is an intricate array of people, relationships and programs It is the combination of these that create very diverse and vibrant learning opportunities for our students

My first and strongest sense is about our special multicultural community and the wonderful opportunities that we have to celebrate our diversity In the programs at both Kew and Marshmead, in House activities, Music and Drama, and on Curriculum Fieldtrips, we consistently find ourselves in positions to learn about others Our strength as a community is to empower each of us to share with others our experiences and our beliefs I can readily recall many special moments as a teacher in both the classroom at Kew and the 'classroom' at Marshmead where in a group we have learnt about other people and cultures and that this opportunity has been one to cherish Tolerance and compassion are often outcomes of such exchanges as is a sense of building a stronger community

The multi-campus nature of our Middle School is definitely a strength of our program Students are able to learn in a variety of settings, the most obvious of which are at Kew and Marshmead The boundaries of our program extend beyond our site to allow students to learn from activities such as Work Experience, Contribution to the Community and exchanges in countries such as France and Germany Curriculum Fieldtrips may take students to Wattle Park, Brighton Beach or even Indonesia At Marshmead, boundaries may also be extended into Croajingolong National Park and into the forests of New South Wales

Our multifarious curriculum has been designed to provide students with challenge and breadth Middle School is an ideal time to try new subjects as well as consolidating learning in key areas The curriculum is designed to be relevant to assist the development of the individual As education is a lifelong process, students are encouraged to gain experience in a wide range of areas as well following their own interests. Middle School is ideal time to try new subjects as well as consolidating learning in key areas

The multitudinous array of co-curricular activities offered further enhances our Middle School community SRC, Debating, Rowing, Softball, Basketball, Choir, Orchestra, Concert Band, Social Service, Drama, Gymnastics, Athletics and Ecocare are only a few of many different activities available Many students extend their friendship groups and grow in confidence and self-reliance through their participation in these types of activities It is a chance to broaden one's horizons

The "multiness" of the MLC Middle School community is its strength and a foundation for learning for all who choose to take the opportunity

Head of Junior Secondary School

Mrs Ruth Baker

Multiness - 2070 young lives - their interests their hopes , their expectations That is the number of students I have interviewed as they entered JSS during my time as Head of School Some lived just across the road; others would be out before 7 am waiting for a bus to begin their daily trip to MLC; others had left their family in Hong Kong or Thailand or Taiwan or Korea or Indonesia to be with us

Each brought her own gifts to MLC For some it was their highly developed intellectual abilities; some it was their curiosity, their questioning minds; some their musical talent or sensitivity to language and literature; some their sporting prowess or creativity in art; some their intuitive, sympathetic interest in others; some their laughter; some their deep concern for other less fortunate Whatever they brought enriched the MLC community

What awaited them was the opportunity to explore - experiences, ideas, values, behaviours, knowledge, friendships, beliefs. School (whatever students may feel about) is a safe place to try out living Try your hand at woodwork Who's for a birdhouse or a deck chair or a cockatoo mobile? Ever sung a song in German or gone shopping in Japanese? What in the world is a potoroo and and who killed the Minotaur? Anyone for water polo or quick-time keyboard? E-mail, web page, intranet, internet, text box, flip side, cut and paste, select, delete , spread sheet, data base - you name it: we do it! Friendships beginning and changing - resolving conflict - self image - who am I ? - challenging - experimentingmaturing

The story doesn't end there. Where are they heading? Where have they arrived? More diversity! For every life is a different story, a different path and a different destiny These are the young people of the new millneium - the leaders, the thinkers, the shapers, the mothers, the givers, the adventurers The brave new world of the twenty-first century is theirs I salute them

Head of Junior School Mrs Toni Bray Planinsek

Junior School strives to be a caring community in which each girl feels valued We believe it is vital to create an environment in which each child's self esteem flourishes Each student is encouraged to give thoughtful consideration to her own learning and analyse her personal strengths and weaknesses in a constuctive manner In Junior School we encourage girls to be openly proud of their achievements and we have established a culture in which there is no stigma attached to seeking help where and when needed

The girls are accepting when difference is openly and honestly acknowledged in a safe and loving environment The success of our program for hearing impaired girls is an excellent example If an individual feels good about herself she is more likely to deal positively with others There are tensions at times, but overall I am very proud of how respectful and caring our girls are to each other We recognise that each of our students has a unique contribution to make to our school community

School life is not immune to the rest of society and, unfortunately, the racial disquiet which has been evident in the wider community has found its way into Junior School this year We took up the challenge and openly discussed what it means to be Australian I am sure it is no surprise to learn that the parents and grandparents of many of our Australian-born students come from a large number of European, African, Asian, North American and South American countries There are also many in our community who, though born elsewhere, have become Australians by choice, even amongst the staff we have American, Canadian, English, New Zealand and South African born Aussies So we have taken the time to identify and celebrate those things about us that are the same and equally we have identified and celebrated what is different.

Our younger girls have had great fun learning bits of the languages of their grandparents Through visits of grandparents and listening to a variety of oral histories, our girls have had very rich experiences of what families and friends mean to each other all over the world When one witnesses the innocent acceptance and open love these small children show to one another, one cannot help but wonder what happens to this overwhelming goodwill to others, as they grow

Our older students have reflected on their own feelings and their experiences with lack of mutual respect and with a variety of prejudices Some of their thoughts have been very powerfully presented in poems and articles It has been challenging, but I believe our Junior School community has been strengthened by the open exploration of what respecting diversity really means in our everyday life, both in school and in the broader community

Principal's Inlmipw

Do you find it daunting to be the first woman Principal of MLC?

I think the fact that I'm the first woman doesn't make any difference at all, and I would be confident in saying that I got the job because I was the best person, not the'best female It's only daunting in that it's a new challenge, but I think that I'm very ready to give it my best shot

In taking on such an enormous responsibility as Principal, what are you afraid of?

I actually don't know what I'm afraid of I know before I went for the job and when I was thinking about applying, I was afraid of following Mr Loader, because he has such a reputation I can't be afraid of doing that, because I am my own person and I am not going to be a 'Mr Loader', and I don't want to be a 'Mr Loader' So, I think that once I had decided I had to walk my own footsteps, confidently, doing it my way, I actually wasn't afraid anymore

How could girl's education prepare them to combat the problem that there is still a major imbalance for women in high management positions?

I do think there is an imbalance of women in high management positions I don't know if there's much more that we can do in schools, but there is certainly a lot more we can do in society to counter that imbalance, and I think it comes down to how families are structured For me the whole child raising issue is a huge variable that organisations underestimate. But until society's expectations change, and we put in structures - child care close to working organisations, helping men realise that there is a lot of benefit in being a dual carer of children - I actually think that we're not going to get through that 'glass ceiling1 as quickly as we'd like

In such a school as MLC, which promotes the equality and independence of women, when does it become too much of a 'female thing1 , and a situation of inequality for men?

I think whatever organisation you look at should have a balance of males and females Our society is now much more conscious of the necessity of having strong female role-models, but under my Principalship I would also be hoping to have strong male role-models in certain areas

Co-ordinating new Principalship and motherhood at the same time, must have taken a lot of planning! How do you plan to survive, and even thrive?

I plan to thrive on it It wasn't necessarily planned that way, but the fact that both opportunities happened to me at the same time is life I was pregnant, and the job came up I couldn't change the pregnancy and didn't want to - I was delighted, excited Then the position came up and I thought, "That's the job that I've been aiming for, for a long time" I have a very supportive husband, who, while he has his own career, is going to support me emotionallyand I think that is vital

What do you regard as the benefits and disadvantages of single sex schools?

I believe strongly that we need to offer people a choice They, the parent, together with the student, decide what's best - and not every situation suits everybody Given that, I think there is no doubt that in a single sex environment, our students, who happen to be girls, are empowered to be involved in absolutely everything that happens around the college You're not competing and I think that's very important Teachers can put their energy into learning and teaching instead of worrying about a whole lot of other issues that come up So it's quite liberating, in some ways, to come into a single-sex environment Given that, I think that its important that we offer opportunities to socialise We need to have male teachers on staff, we need to have opportunities for the boys to come across, to keep that balance

Where do you see yourself in 18 years time, and what do you have hoped to achieve? In 18 years time, it would be very, very unlikely that I would still be the Principal of MLC And I think that's actually connected with how organisations have changed too In 18 years time.. I'll be fifty-six! Hopefully, I'll be having a life of luxury

Claire Finkelstein & Kate Campbell

Year 12

The Year Twelves of 1997 are a group of girls with a multitude of talents We have come to appreciate our individual differences and our human similarities Acknowledgin g and embracing individuality has been crucial in our attempt to understand each other Many of us are grateful for the opportunities we've had at MLC to develop our talents and explore our potential

The Prefects this year have worked hard to create an atmosphere throughout the college that encourages participation, and choice Leading this group has been one of the most challenging tasks I have ever undertaken It is not easy to respond to the needs and opinions of over 300 students and maintain a democratic approach to decision making The changes that have occurred in the Senior School's administration this year have obliged us to take on the responsibility for our own functioning as a Prefect body Earlier this year, I attended the Fourth Annual School Captains' Conference with the two Deputy Senior Prefects, Brooke and Sophie We discovered that at MLC, we have a very unique Prefect system in that we are elected entirely by our peers We came away from the conference motivated and full of ideas for the year ahead In April, the Prefects and House Leaders took part in a thought provoking leadership seminar led by Dr

Prefers

Senior Prefect's Report

Janet Hall The seminar inspired us to run a leadership workshop of our own for the Grade Six leaders of Junior School The girls participated eagerly and maturely in discussions and teamwork games As a result, the event was a great success To maintain our contact with the Junior students, we organised a Teddy Bear's picnic with the Grade Ones None of us can deny that we enjoyed that sickly sweet lunchtime of fairy bread, party games and lolly hunts

The role of the Prefects has involved serving the MLC community, and in particular, representing the senior students. The wintry weather and heavy workload of Term Three prompted the "Prefects' Funky Month" The multicultural food day exposed students to a range of exotic cuisine and raised money to support Amnesty International Perhaps the highlight of Funky Month was the celebrity visit Ryan Moloney (better known as

" T o a d f i s h " f r o m "Neighbours") had girls scrambling for autographs and at the same time helped raise money for Melbourne City Mission We also supported the Lion's Club of Melbourne and the Spastic Society of Victoria through several casual clothes days A highly publicised and popular event was the annual Scotch versus MLC netball match The game raised money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, but was as good an excuse as any to see the boys in skirts and make-up

Our most important task, however, has been to provide good role models for younger students, and inspiration and encouragement for our peers We are currently in the midst of intense end of year preparations It certainly has been an exciting, industrious and rewarding year

Ann Hatjiandreou

Senior

Prefect

Prefects

MLC vs Scotch Nethll Match

The Annual Scotch Prefects versus MLC Prefects Netball match took place late in Second Term We could not let the tradition, or our reputations as skillful sportswomen slip!

The match began with our ranks being slightly depleted, however there were many MLC supporters who turned up to cheer us on, which had nothing to do with the Scotch guys wearing dresses of course! Despite the fact that a number of our team were still singing our hearts out at Massed Singing practice, the game began, with the MLC team supposedly attired in Scotch's suggestion of 'hot pants.'

This did not last long, and though our dress may not have been what the boys expected, we still managed to conform to their theme Though the scoreboard may have fluctuated during the game, it was good to know that our talent did not go unrecognised with the game ending in a draw It was a fun match and we hope that next years prefects continue tradition and beat those boys outright!

Penny Evans Year 12 Prefect

Junior School House Captains

House Captain: Anna Jennings-Edquist

Vice Captain: Caroline Kronborg

Athletics Captain: Samantha Charlton

Music Captain: Georgia Bejamin Social Service Captain: Lizzie Oppy

House Captain: Lauren Wheatley

Vice Captain: Helen Fedderson

Music Captain: Alicia Alizzi

Athletics Captain: Sarah Stawell

Social Service Captain: Ginny Atkins

\\ House Captains

Fitche11

House Captain:

Kasey Morris

Vice Captain:

Emma Sumington

Athletics Captain:

Tanya Hendy

Swimming Captain:

Rebecca Young

Music Captain:

Felicity Sincock

Social Service Captain:

Kristine Howe

Nevile

House Captain: Jessica Clarebrough

Vice Captain:

Isabel Gutierrez

Athletics Captain:

Verity Woinarski

Swimming Captain: Camilla Inman

Music Captain: Celine Young

Social Service Captain: Joanna Shift

Krome

House Captain:

Philippa Johnson

Vice Captain:

Ostiane Goh-Livorness

Athletics Captain:

Felicity Halsall

Swimming Captain:

Eline Kotaridis

Music Captain:

Julia Kilpatrick

Social Service Captain:

Lucy Cuthbertson

At the start of the year Miss Price and Mrs Kenway auditioned the Year 5 and 6 girls for Concert Choir In the following weeks

Miss Price told us who were the 1997 Concert Choir members

We rehearsed in Flockart Hall on Tuesdays at 9:50am. Sopranos also rehearsed on Thursday at Lunchtime in the JS Hall and Altos rehearsed on Friday at Lunchtime in the JS Hall Now and then we had double rehearsals

Ms Shewan is our concert accompanist and Miss Price is our day to day accompanist

Our first song that we learned was "All Things Bright and Beautiful" by John Rutter, followed by a "Cats" Medley by Andrew Lloyd Webber It was hard work

Music

JS Concert (llioir

and very tiring Our first concert was treated like a rehearsal at Open Day in March, where we sang both of our songs After Open Day we had the Junior School Church Service, then we had the MLC Gala Concert on 23rd June, where we sang "Cats." At both the Gala Concert and the Junior School Service we had to wear our red Concert Choir dresses with white collars All of Junior School had to participate in the Junior School Music Evening on 25th July and the Concert Choir sang the "Cats" Medley again.

On Grandparents' Day in October we sang the World Premier performance of a new choral piece called "Musical Lingo" by Melbourne composer Cenarth Fox Concert Choir certainly is very challenging and has been very enjoyable throughout the year

Georgia Benjamin & Kim Elmore

Junior School

My Dad is special because:

he takes me to the park and I give him presents and he takes me riding on my bike Astrid Mulder

he is silly and he gives me ice-cream and he takes me to the park. Grace Russell

he says to Mum "I'm going to take Adele to the Hardware", but he doesn't take me to the Hardware he just takes me to the ice-cream shop Adele Vartdermeer

he takes me to school and he buys me clothes Gia Truong

he takes me to school and he loves me and he takes me to church and he thinks I'm lovely. Hannah Wallace

he takes me to school and he always buys me lots of toys and he buys me lots of stickers Erica Wilkinson

he helps me do my homework Melissa Ho

I go back to Hong Kong to see him and I go to Ocean Park Annie Chan

he plays games and he plays monopoly and he plays scrabble with me Lizzie Stockdale-Williamson

he made a great violin for me and he works hard Rachelle Moors-Chantry

he takes me to the park Alexandra Gaillard

he plays and helps me with chess and scrabble and lets me go to see the twins

Alexandra Harper

he helps me ride my bike and he takes me to the park and he helps me do sums and helps me on the monkey bars

Laura Robson

he takes me on a bike ride and he helps me on the computer and cooks dinner

Olivia Bakyew

What is a principal?

A principal is someone who looks after the children and the school Melissa Coleman

A principal is someone who takes care of the kids Karina Ganesh

A principal is someone who is a boss of a school Kathryn Andrews

A principal is someone who looks after the school and cares about the children in it Cecily Tiernan

A principal is someone who is a good worker and she looks after the school and she cares for the school Geetanjali Lamba

A principal is someone who works hard and looks after children and looks after Junior School Scarlett McNab

A principal is someone who works looks after people and looks after children Zoe Read and

A principal is someone who looks after girls and who works a lot and makes people work at MLC and gets money Nicolette DeSanctis

A principal is someone who takes care of Junior School and does lots of work Jessica Fairley

•hiiiiiii' School

On Thursday Ms Storelli came to year 1V and 1H and had a tea party with us It was fun we had scones, quiches and hot chocolate. Harriet Fitzgerald

Once there was a little girl and it was her birthday and from her dad and mum she got a puppy She was very happy The puppy was digging in the garden and the little girl came out and said "Stop digging in the garden." So the puppy stopped digging and went inside and made foot prints, the little girl was very angry The end Samantha Shell

Once upon a time there was a rainbow fish and a very selfish fish because one day a little blue fish said, "Can I have one scale please?" "No way" said the selfish fish!

Alyssa Goy

On Thursday Ms Storelli came to 1V and 1H. We had scones and quishes and baby Benjamin was really cute We made a book for her Nicola Quah

The sumo wrestlers were very big and funny and they said not to trust a skinny cook and I liked it He is 10 Annas big and I would say he would have muscles and they would have to be strong to play Anna Pitliangas

Grade 1

I had a dream about Hannah Barrie It was a windy day She was running round the corner and the bricks were loose She stepped on it and fell head first saying "Help" Everyone stopped we put a ladder down she got out and was covered with dirt

Stephanie Rowe

My mum is going to get a new car today

Ashlea Chong

Once upon a time there was a tree not just an ordinary tree it was a magic tree In the tree there lived a fairy her name was Side Annabelle Warren

On Thursday we had a dress rehearsal for Cinderella and Ms Storelli came with Benjamin and we had scones with jam and cream

Sian Lacy

Junior School

Grade z

Octopuses

Octopuses have so many legs

I don't know how they go to bed! Maybe they tie their legs in a knot! Or maybe they cut them right off! I think they are rather funny! They make me feel funny in my tummy

Delightful Dolphins

Dolphins, dolphins all around Up and down they are always found Dolphins' lives can be so free Fresh air and the sea

Anne-Marie O'Brien

My Hermit Crab

My hermit crab's name is Snouty, We love to play all day, We always look for adventures, Out in the deep blue sea, One day we found a treasure, And took it home with pleasure

Jana Tsiligiannis

A Lost Fish

There once lived a lost fish in the sea He wondered where his mother could be "Aren't fish meant to live in school? I'm not swimming by the rule!"

I used a telescope I had found in a ship I found my mother and I swam a flip "Oh darling I haven't seen you in a week You are so beautiful and so sweet."

Alex Drucker

Waves

Lovely waves splashing on the shore, I can't count them all, There are so many more, Than I've ever counted before!

I'm so puzzled as can be, I need someone else to help me, You can find out how puzzling in is, If you try it like me

Eliza Lockhart

Rapunzel

Rapunzel has such stringy hair, It's blonde and soft and very fair

The witchy cried, "Oh let me in, or I'll walk the stairs and chew your skin!"

Rapunzel cried, "I will not, you're not cool and I am hot"

And with that she simply shot the witchy in the nose "YOWEE!"

yelled the witch.

"Alas, Alack Sometime in life I'll get you back!"

She took an axe and she did hack the castle walls all down

The witch she did get angry and she began to roar

She ruined her black hiking boots by kicking at the floor

The field mice got mad and they began to gnaw until Rapunzel just escaped by running out the door

Grace Jennings-Edquist

Stephanie Judge

Pinocchio

You know Pinocchio that funny fellow, he always wears clothes that are yellow Every time he'll pass my window by, I shout, "Be careful not to lie."

He shouts back, "I will, I'm not a silly dill." Although he wants to be a child, his lies are sometimes very mild. And though he is my very good friend, his lies drive me round the bend

Alexandra Reid

Junior School

Grade 3

A description of the sea

When I am at the sea I can see.. shells sparkling in beautiful rock pools, shining blue water with elegant dolphins leaping in the air, children with their friends, playing in the smooth, soft sand beautiful fish swimming past my feet, tiny little sand crabs scurrying along

When I am at the sea I can hear.. the wind swooping around in and out of the palm trees, children's happy laughter while they play, joyful adults swimming

When I am at the sea I can smell.. foul smelling seaweed the dreadful smell of dead fish the coconuts, the fresh smell of the sea water

When I am at the sea I can taste.. salty, strong sea water, crunchy, foul tasting sand, the slimy, sloppy taste of seaweed, the food just cooked on the BBQ

When I am at the sea I can touch.. the soft sand running through my hand, the waves as I jump over them

Lauren Donnazzan

Junior School

Grade li

A thing I could change about the world..

I could change the way people thing of black and Asian people, t's unfair how these people get rude remarks about their colour, eyes and language Some people like Pauline Hanson just don't look inside them, feeling sometimes she's right Just because they are different on the outside doesn't mean they are different on the inside!

Katrina Blaubaum

A Mouse in our House!

I was standing by the sink really needing a drink

When from behind the microwave came a little mouse all ready for a game

I let out a scream, the mouse looked so mean I called mum my whole body was numb

Cheese is what we need to catch the mouse with speed It sneaked out for a look, and mum squashed it with a book

Goodbye little mouse, No longer will you live in my house!

Abhi Patel

If I could change one thing about the world I would make no one a racist I would make it seem not important about colour, race or what country you come from There would be no one like Pauline Hanson because anyone could go to any country they please at any time and not worry about immigration laws.

Melinda

Inserra

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Emm Chow (>(

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Living in the City

The city at night, is a beautiful sight

The lights do glisten, and you can listen,

To the toot of a horn as a car rushes by, Its destination reached when light is in the sky

Advertisements flash, their bright colours shining. They're mixed with the sound of distant trams whining

The buildings, I see, stand tall and straight, For until the morning, they have to wait

And then; at that time, the action will start

Each and every person, will take a small part,

Of the hustle and bustle, of the daytime, they will,

Until night falls again, and everything's still

Anonymous people, working at night, Behind millions of glowing windows of light

For them no rest, while we are asleep

As over the city the shadows creep

Brie Hughes

Junior School Grade 6

Autumn Fall

Once a year leaves fall off the trees, gold and brown they come twinkling down, as I look out through my window, at the peaceful wind blowing through the old oak trees

The pavement is covered from top to bottom, with red, gold and brown leaves

As an old lady rakes them up, the wind spreads them out even more, such is life

The cold Autumn day is coming to an end, it sends a shiver down my spine, gold, red and brown leaves glistening in the wind, as the night grows dim

The children play out in the chilly weather as they throw leaves up in the air, the leaves go crunch beneath their shoes, as the children's voices echo in delight, as they await the morning's frosty bite.

The grass is no longer green, first it was covered with leaves, now there's a thick layer white snow, Autumn has disappeared another year

Alexandra

Hanson of fresh for yet

Elissa Blake

House Berry

JSS BERRY

It has been a great year for JSS Berry girls We won virtually all the major sporting events that were held! We would like to thank all the Captains who have contributed to the team sports this year They have encouraged people to do the best they could. A special thank you to our Swimming, Cross Country, Aths and House Music Captains who have done an extremely good job at preparing the teams A special thank you to Mrs Tinsley who has been a terrific and suppor House Teache

MS BERRY

What a year it's been School! We've been re everyone's enthusias that's been put in th Teacher, Mis legend, ensuring th

rry Middle pleasec nd all the effor year Our House as been an absolute air Berry girls strut their stuff to the best of their ability On top of that, all the "not so good" jobs were taken care of without complaint Thanks also to our ace recorder, Eliss who we could not have man Overall, we'd like to thank eve helped Berry Middle School do this year Conlon ithout e who so well

The Berries are BACK! This year there has been a surge of Berrites willing to participate in anything and everything The new SS House Teacher, Ms Walsh, added to this enthusiasm She was always supportive and stayed after school with the MS Berry House Teacher, Ms Smith, to make our new revitalised Murtle The beginning of our reign of success began at the Swimming Sports where our purple Champions blitzed the field, with brilliant swims taking records throughout the day Our SS Swimming Captains, Cassie Williams, Emily Hynes and Nicole Kee, received the Swimming Trophy in purple power fashion

It has been an excellent year for Berry We would like to thank everyone who participated We also collected the Proficiency and Junior School Trophy At the Athletics Sports our long-legged purple sprinters strutted across the finish line claiming first place in a number of events The SS Aths Captains, Amy Hirst, Fiona Ramsey and Georgia Berry, contributed to these winnings However, this was not enough to claim victory and we settled for third place

/ess in sport has also been illustrated by winning the SS divisions of Cross Country, Softball, Hockey, Badminton and Table Tennis As JSS also won the Cross Country, we were entitled to yet another trophy Berry's superiority has been exemplified by winning Oratory and 3 We also won Chess! And to think lat the Houses haven't even finished competing in Volleyball and Basketball! Our Captains of the various sports and activities have lead with true purple power passion

Our SS Drama Captains, Zahra Huntingford and Suzi Taylor, directed a star-studded cast of skilled Berry actors in 'Make Mine May Fair1 It was a hilarious play and Berry took it to new dimensions Thank you to our SS Music Captain, Sarah Aird, as we were able to learn the majority of "Don't Stop Me Now." Our fellow comrades in MS won House Music

We'd like to thank everyone who helped Berry MS do so swell this year. We couldn't have done it without you! We hope that next year's Captains have as much fun as we did good luck for 1998!

SS Captains: Rachel Najjar & Sarah Colban

MS Captains: Alex Patrick & Jane Crowe

JSS Captains: Alex O'Shaughnessy & Rachel Grenfell

mm

"Dicko, I think we're in for a top year," announced Claire as she arrived at the first House meeting of the year "Macca, I reckon you're right," Christina responded with her ever present air of enthusiasm

And so it has proven to be - 1997 has been an awesome year for us and the entire Cato House The year kicked off in usual fashion with a breakfast by the Yarra, attended by many creatures of the blue variety So the year began with the fired-up swimming team led by Cath and Cate Although we provided tough competition, we discovered that our real prowess lay in the novelty pool We found that swimming with mats, tyres and t-shirts was just our thing Middle School emerged the biggest success of the day, with a fantastic 2nd place After the blue treats for breakfast again by the Yarra, Aths day was another memorable event, with our stars on the field as well as cheersquad in the stands. We were awarded third place overall - a huge credit to Cato and SS captains, Tia, Tricia and Coco Middle School triumphed again, with a fantastic first place (We're expecting big things from that Middle School crew!) Other sporting highlights included a win in the Rowing, and top placings in Soccer, Cricket, Softball, Tennis, Table Tennis, Squash and Basketball A huge thank you to all Captains and team members, whose enthusiasm and dedication meant that Cato had competitve teams at all levels

The Drama and Music Festivals were spectacular events, both yielding third places

Many thanks to Imogen, Sam, Anne and Cathy, and the inspired variety team who earned a well-deserved second place with "Officer Krupke" Debating Captain and orator Rosa also deserves a huge clap, after her brilliant speech - "We are what we dream"

All in all it's been a fantastic year, and we couldn't have managed it without the support of every single Catoite who has participated. We hope that everyone involved has had heaps of fun, as we have, and those in lower year levels will continue to be involved To Kaia, our loyal redate machine who has been kept busy with the amazing amount of redates SS girls have been earning, a massive thank you - your time has been hugely apprieciated Also to Mrs James, Mrs Warren and Ms Phillips - "Wendy", thanks for all your support and time in attending seemingly endless Music and Drama rehearsals!

SS Captains: Christina Dickinson & Claire Macdonald

MS Captains: Angela Moore & Annie Dobson

JSS Captains: Emily Doyle & Kate Hopkins

House

Fitchett

SS

In the continued tradition of excellence, once again Fitchett swept the field Under the guiding roars of our beloved Tough Stuff1 , we had an eventful and highly enjoyable year. The contribution of all year levels in House activities was outstanding and the commitment of our House Leaders helped to make our 1997 Fitchett team a triumphant one In the House Swimming competition, Fitchett came a close second to Berry, and claimed the Proficiency trophy by a convincing margin Fitchett then progressed to claim the victory cup at the House Athletics for the sixth year running The day was extremely tense with the lead changing hands frequently, however with a vital last minute dash we came from behind to claim first position. There were some brilliant athletic performances from girls of all year levels and the team events were approached with the customary Fitchett spirit

Fitchett's performance in the Term Two Drama Festival awarded us a fourth placing, with all of the cast displaying excellent acting ability. The efforts of the backstage and technical helpers complimented the action on stage and all participants should be proud of being part of such an entertaining day Our other 'off the field' event was House Music in which Fitchett performed very well and created a new singing technique; stopping halfway throug h masse d singin g to creat e

dramatic tension Thanks to the variety item choreographers who worked hard on 'Rhythm of life' and to participants in both the choral and instrumental items Our excellent results were not only restricted to the major events Fitchett performed exceptionally well in all other activities

Thanks to Ms Carrol who was a fantastic House Leader and made sure that House Meetings were kept under control Thanks to all participants and Captains for their energy, loyalty and efforts

MS

Thanks to all our captains this year for all their efforts and to all the girls who participated in activities supporting Fitchett A big thanks to our recorder, Chi-sze Ooi and House Leader, Mrs Mackenzie

JSS

For House Music MS Fitchett won the House Spirit Trophy, blitzed the field winning their division at the Athletics Sports and came second in the Swimming Sports Congratulations to all Fitchett lions and well done to all participants in their efforts to once again make Fitchett simply the best!

SS Captains: Michelle Eastwood & Allison Wilcox

MS Captains: Kate Perlstein & Emma Robinson

JSS Captains: Sally Gates & Jess Taylor

ss

1997 has been a year of success for Krome To start off the year, we took to the pool as true amphibians in the Swimming Sports and even though the trophy was out of reach we swam our little hearts out Then to the wonderful, but tiring Aths day, where we chanted, cheered, ran, hopped and threw to the fullest potential We were truly proud of the efforts of the Green House

Krome's acting talent shone through as we took to the stage in style coming Runners-up to Nevile with the Australian play "Away." Wit h a continuousl y depleting cast, the stress of House Drama came to a climax, which our experienced captains Kate Foskett and Justine Little handled with class Well, what can we say about our enormous wins in House Musicfirst in Massed Singing; first in proficiency; and second in instrumental Thanks to our lovely SS Captains; Liz Sloane and Olivia Ostojic

With lunch time sport - Volleyball, Soccer, Badminton, Hockey, Tennis and Rowing, everyone put in heaps of effort which showed in the numerous wins and second placings Thanks to all the Captains and everyone who participated

On behalf of Krome we would like to give an enormous thanks to our SS House

House Krome

Teacher, Ms Pateras; and, of course, Ms Pilioglou, who gave us support at the most vital time of the year We would also like to thank all the wonderful achievers an d funk y gree n Kromerian s fo r all excellence

JSS - The Meeting

Clapping and cheering, Krome House rose as one The Captains had arrived With a simple wave of the hand, the crowd was hushed 150 pairs of eyes stared intently and admirably at the leaders They smiled, cool, calm and collected as always Just as they began to speak, the House uplifted once again Repetitive worshipping and hailing begun The House Teacher, Mrs Brown had entered Calling the customary chant, "Alligators, crocodiles..." Mrs Brown abruptly brought the praise to a halt Smiling, as always, she reminded the girls who the best House was, Krome (of course) Krome is the best at supporting and encouraging one another We are also enthusiastic and hardworking and were never afraid to try something ne

TA JSS Captains: Steph Andrew & Sarah Shorland

MS Captains: Sarah Brown & Siana Einfeld

JSS Captains: Catherine Dow & Rivkah Stanton

House

Nevile

JSS Nevile won the Aggregate Trophy for the 1997 JSS House Music Festival; the Massed Hymn with everyone doing a great job singing 'Father We Adore You' Nevile's Massed Song 'Whistle a Happy Tune' was the judge's top item Nevile won Variety too, dancing to 'Vogue' by Madonna What a Festival!

Congratulations to all Captains and Mrs Putt Without all the enthusiasm and support of our Nevile girls we could not have had such a successful and enjoyable year in all events

Middle School Nevile has left its mark on every aspect of Inter-House Competition so far this year - thanks to all Nevilites! It has been fantastic to see everyone's participation and enthusiasm pay off with some excellent results

The year of 1997 has drawn to an end, And Nevile has triumphed once again

So we'd like to thank many different people, For their outstanding effort and none that was little

Your contribution to the House, has been very great,

And you're very kind for putting in that special effort for your mates

Starting from Swimming and Athletics, As these times were grand in the way of Kinetics

Everyone's enthusiasm and concentration was at its peak,

As Nevile's Swimming was very fast and elite

In the time of hot faints and exhausting amounts of heat, Each competitor, cheerer, and participator didn't go down in defeat

At the Athletics things were a little more fun,

But unfortunately Nevile was a little outdone

Rowing, Waterpolo were both victorious, As everyone stood out like a chorus Gymnastics didn't seem to sing so loud, As there weren't too many people in the crowd

A special shout out to the future Captains and girls, Try to lead Nevile into the biggest and best sports world!

SS Captains: Alicia Benson & Sally Gentle

MS Captains: Anna Smith & Anna Ryan

JSS Captains: Joanna Leach & Emily Ryan

MLC's advanced Aerobics Team included Nada Zito and Ainslie Woods from Year 12 and Penny Opey and Lexie Judge from year 11 The girls began their hard training session all the way back in 1996 The team choose to do their routine to the catchy tune of 'Wham Bam' by the Candy Girls and decided on a team name, The Candies They even designed their very own aerobics costumes which were, by the way, very spectacular, with lots of sequins and a silver star The girls trained four times a week The team choreographed its own routine and performed it to the Junior Secondary and Middle School students before the competition Their friends didn't get to see them struggling to retain the fake smiles throughout the routine while attempting one-handed push ups and excruciatingly painful splits and presses The team practiced and polished the

Aerobics

routine until it was almost perfect The inter-schools aerobics competition was held on the 5th May Considering that Nada and Ainslie had their Year 12 formal the night before, which meant they only had 3 hours sleep before the competition However they managed to arrive at Dallas Brooks hall 9.00 sharp on Sunday morning and pulled off a great routine for the judges It was however very disappointing to hear that the girls received a 10 point deduction for an illegal move. The girls missed out on 5th place and had to settle for 10th place It was very disappointing to hear that they would have made the finals, but 10 out of 40 teams was a great effort The aerobics team also competed in Victorian Aerobics Championships Open Schools Team and came seventh Overall, the girls had a great year and their hard work paid off in the end

Captain: Ainslie Woods

Athletics & Cross Country

The athletics season started at the end of 1996, with specialist coaches used for a variety of events During terms 1 and 2, the athletics squad trained 4 times a week, with general fitness at 7.15am twice a week, and specific event training at lunch times on the other 2 days It was great to see so many enthusiastic athletes committed to their sport

The first of our competitions, the GPSVSA competition, occured during the second week of term 2 - the day the Maths CAT was handed out! With virtually no Year 12 athletes present, the team tried their hardest for the school, resulting in many excellent performances The second of our competitions was two weeks later the day the Maths CAT was due! Again, with hardly any Year 12s, the team performed valiantly Hopefully next year the competition and Maths CAT will not clash and the MLC team will prove more successful

As soon as the athletics season finished, Cross Country started.

The cross country squad trained twice a week, building up endurance for their competitions, the first being the GPSVSA at Jell's Park Organised by MLC - the whole team ran extremely well - coming first overall and taking home a shield A couple of days later, the team ran in the Victorian Schools Road Relay Championship The team were ready to win again but unfortunately, were beaten by a mere 2 points. Two weeks later, there was the GSSA competition In this the team continued its excellent form - coming second overall by a margin

Much of the success of the athletics and cross country seasons must be attributed to the enduring support and encouragement of our coach Miss Warrick, assissted for the first half of the year by Mr Bullock Hopefully, next year both teams will be even more successful, winning a few more shields

Captain: Liz Short

The 1997 Senior School Badminton Team consisted of twelve pairs of talented Year 11 and 12 players With Miss James as our coach and number one fan, our Tuesday early morning training sessions were exciting with challenges between ranked pairs, drills and preparation for the games against the surrounding schools This is where the MLC Badminton Team performed to their fullest, standing out from

Sport Badminton

the rest with our skill, tactics, reflexes and technique We were extremely successful in our matches, remaining undefeated throughout the season I was very proud of the team and would like to thank them for their efforts and achievements I would also like to thank Miss James for her enthusiasm and support Well done girls, and good luck for next year!

Captain: Sarah Shorland

Sport Gymnastics

Terms 3 and 4 are very busy terms in the gym as Interhouse takes place on September 10th and Interschool between October 13th and 15th Interhouse is the first competition, and probably the most enjoyable because it involves students from Prep to Year 12 With 22 gymnasts in each House the competition allows 110 gymnasts to compete That is a lot of gymnasts considering that in training sessions leading up to the competition there are just 20 Captains (four from each House) trying to teach 100 or so kids three full routines and a vault

The day of the competition is stressful, starting at 8am with presentations finishing about 4pm There are five Cups to be presented, the Junior School Cup, Junior Secondary School Cup, Middle School Cup, Senior School Cup and Aggregate Cup This year the Aggregate Cup was won by Cato

Interschool Gym is a bit more relaxing than House Gym as MLC is renowned for gaining outstanding results Last year, MLC won all divisions as well as taking away most of the individual medals. But MLC gymnasts who are Level 5 and above, have the major advantage of being able to compete in their own gymnasium whilst the rest of the competition is held at St Catherine's Over the three days the talent ranges from those who have just started to those who 'retired' from gymnastics some years ago, creating not only a competitive, but also an entertaining atmosphere

Although training for Interschool has not yet begun, I am sure that the MLC School Gymnastics Team will do just as well this year thanks to the assistance of many coaches in the gym, especially Karen Myers and the dedication of every member of the team

Captains: Kristin Badger & Ingrid Lim

Hockey proved to be a very popular sport this year, fielding two very successful senior teams The A-team completed a triumphant season beating MGGS (5-0), thrashing Camberwell (7-0), flogging IGGS (7-0), and crushing Strathcona (4-0). However, we were somewhat humbled by a mid-season loss to our arch rivals PLC (0-2), and a draw with Genezzano (1-1)

The B-team began the season with a draw to MGGS (0-0) and ended with a convincing victory over Ruyton (4-0)

For the A-team, perhaps the most thrilling event on the hockey calendar was the Buchannan Cup Rounds 1 and 2 took place at Essendon Hockey Club's synthetic ground Decked out with matching "MLC" headbands, the team took on and defeated Altona (4-0) and Newcomb (3-0)

The forwards were constantly supplied with goal opportunities set up by our speedy wingers, Fiona Galbraith and Kathryn Savage Kirstin Guy established herself as a highly skilled half-back and a ceaseless distributor of the ball, while Penny Watts was an exceedingly dependable defender. Other stalwarts of the team included Christina Dickinson and Olivia

Kinnear, whose unconventional styles instilled fear into any opposition player Defenders Sarah Shorland, Greta Costello, and Veronica Loras demonstrated an abundance of team spirit and endeavour

Our back line, Sarah James and Fiona Ramsay, were steadfast in defence; Sarah proving herself a cool full back with a very strong hit Forwards, Natasha Ward and Katie Davies, always showed competitive energy Rebecca Brown, in her archaic goalie gear, was sterling in her defence of the goal

It was a privilege to play out the final rounds of the competition on the State Hockey Center's water based ground Despite being a little dissipated by injury, the team managed to beat Ballarat (1-0) In the semi-final, we lost to Ruyton (0-2) who in fact went on to win the Cup

On behalf of the hockey teams, I'd like to thank our coach Mr Shipp (fondly known as "Shippy") for his support, encouragement, and commitment to the team. Thank you to all the hockey players for their dedication and enthusiasm throughout the season - best of luck for 1998!

Captain: Ann Hatjiandreou

Once again MLC's Junior, Middle and Senior Netball Teams found themselves competing in the Interschool Competition for 1997, where all teams were quite successful The Senior A Team won 4 out of 6 games, with the B Team winning all 6 The Senior A Team also had the privilege of playing against the team from St Catherine's School which was visiting from England This game was extremely close, with the lead changing several times throughout the game. In the end, MLC lost by just one goal, but were gallant in defeat and joined in the sausage-sizzle which followed

Our greatest success came in the annual Schoolgirls' Netball Competition held at the State Netball Centre at Royal Park The JSS team finished a creditable fourth in the first round; while both the Middle and Senior School Teams finished

Snort iWliall

first in the first round, making it through to the finals in late August Competing with the best schoolgirl teams in Victoria, both Middle and Senior teams made the Quarter Finals Unfortunately, the tough quarter final games ended our run with Middle and Senior Teams finishing fifth and eight in Victoria respectively out of 150 schools Credit and thanks must go to the small number of supporters who turned up to cheer us on, braving the cold weather

Lastly, a special thanks goes to Miss Nankervis, Miss James and Mrs Davies for coaching the three squads We wish the 'new wave' of Senior Netballers (and the younger ones) the best of luck in 1998

Captain: Jenny Wood Vice Captain: Trudi Wong

Although the MLC Senior Rowing Squad was somewhat small, this lack in size was compensated by the dedication and enthusiasm expressed by all squad members During the Summer break the rowers were in training down on the Mitchell River in Bairnsdale, at the annual camp However, rowing for the 15 Senior Squad members began in the Term Two holidays of 1996 MLC in the 1996/7 rowing season had a record number of girls participating with 115 rowers in the Senior and Junior Squads Our first regatta for the season was at Carrum where all MLC Senior Crews took first place, including the First Eight, Four and Quad and the Second Four The MLC Senior Crews continued these stunning results in the Victorian Universities, Scotch-Mercantile, Barwon, Yarra Yarra and Banks Regattas

The major highlight of the season, was the Head of the Schoolgirls Regatta held annually on the Barwon River, in which both the Senior and Junior squads competed It is the largest regatta of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and MLC won many events Junior Crews including

Fours and Quads also took the major prize For the first time ever MLC entered Year 9 crews with all making finals and the second division winning their final Our Docklands wind training proved futile against the might of the sub-arctic gale force winds that greeted us down in Tasmania for the 1997 National Championships Many of the 2000m races were reduced to 1000m due to dangerous conditions at the start, never the less MLC managed a creditable fourth in the Eight, and all Fours made it through to the final Thank you to all the coaches especially Brenton, George, and Jess for their unwavering support Also to Dee Fraser, Director of Rowing who will be leaving MLC this year after many years of dedicated organising, supporting, coaching, and counselling Congratulations to all who participated in the Silver Star Rowing Club in 1996-7 and good luck to all future rowers and coxswains for the future

Catriona Oliver Year 12

The MLC Ski Team has had one of its most successful years so far, and expectations are still high as the National Interschools' Competition approaches MLC's Skiers and Snowboarders participated in dry training throughout Term 2, in preparation for the snow season

The try-outs weekend on the 1-3rd of August was a great success, with sunny skies and fast times, although there was a considerable lack of snow on most runs

The Victorian Interschools' took place from Sunday 24th-Wednesday 27th of August and all were overjoyed at the dump of snow we received just in time for the competition The Interschools' are a very large and competitive event, attracting over 3,500 competitors, not to mention stars such as Plucka Duck and Mel Gibson

Overall, MLC came in a very impressive third place, ahead of many talented schools

There were a number of very good individual results in cross-country, snowboarding, moguls and alpine The Junoir teams were particularly sucessful this year, and they will certainly be a force to reckon with in the ensuing years

We would like to congratulate all 67 MLC competitors, and thank their parents for all the support and encouragement on and off the mountain It was greatly appreciated We would also like to thank all MLC staff who helped us this year and especially Mrs Dahl, who has made this all possible

Captains: Jacqui Parkinson & Fiona Ramsey

Sport Softball

The year opened superbly with the Senior Softball Team having a fantastic undefeated season The team of champions were Allison Willcox, Olivia Kinnear, Tressie Norton, Rebecca Brown, Rachel North, Ruth Caldwell, Kathryn Savage, Laura Crommelin and Christina Dickinson Coached by Mr Shipp and with the help of our batting bonanza, the "THUMPER", we were fired up and ready to take on any opponents that would challenge us Our first match set the trend for the rest of the season with a 28-7 victory against Genazzano; followed by games against Melbourne, Ivanhoe, Strathcona, and Camberwell The season highlight was

when we played PLC, who we defeated by the narrowest of margins, with our pitcher and home-run sensation, Ruth, saving the day with a final innings bash into the outfield As well as the successful efforts we had in the games, we had heaps of fun at training and the Softball Season was a great beginning to the year's sporting activities In the fun game against the staff, the students were again victorious Congratulations to the B Team who also had a very sucessful season, winning all of their matches

Captain: Christina Dickinson Vice Captain: Allison Willcox

Eleven and a half months a year, rain, hail or occasionally shine, the MLC Swim Team are put through their paces in the MLC pool at dawn, and at the Hawthorne pool as the sun sets

Prior to the excitement of the All Schools the MLC Swim Team competed in two meets, the GPS and the GPSSA, achieving outstanding results Along the way to All Schools a number of our team members picked up individual victories with Jacquie Harbig, Lucy Hogson and Sarah Colban being selected to compete for Victoria in the Pan Pacific School Games late last year; and the likes of Jacquie Harbig, Louise Colban, Lucy Hodgson and Beth Davidson competing in the National Titles in Term Two of this year Every swimmer produced personal best times and played an important role in the overall victory of the team whose memory will live on for years to come

Sport Swimming

When MLC competed in the All Schools this year, not only did the team slaughter the opposing female schools, but they tortured the former champions, Scotch College, to take out first place in both the female and overall division for the first time in MLC's history!

The MLC swim team completed a fantastic season this year, out-doing all of the top Victorian school swim teams Team morale on the fantastic evening was high spirited The introduction of a team banner, capes and hats, saw our cheer squad rocking!

Best of luck to Claire Holdsworth and Melissa Wong, the 1998 School Swim Captains and to the rest of the team, we wish you the best of luck and hope you make our 1997 victories a tradition!

Captains: Sarah Colban & Cassie Williams

7 Sport Tennis

A high amount of skill and enthusiasm contributed to the success of this year's Senior Tennis Team Approximately thirty girls participated this year, the team being undefeated at the end of the season It was great to have so many girls regularly attending 7.00am training sessions at Grace Park, which enabled everyone to play due to having 10 courts Our first match was against Genezzano, which we won comprehensively 9 sets to 1 Our other victims were: Camberwell, 32 games to 24; MGGS, 88 games to 46; PLC, 8 sets to 1 and Strathcona, 46 games to 21 The highlight of the season was our defeat of Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar, 45 games to 32, Ivanhoe being the only loss last season

As well as these matches, a number of girls participated in wider competitions Ros, Alicia, Claire, Kate, Eliza, Catherine, Alice and Felicia played a doubles round robin at Flinders Park against different schools such as Carey, Wesley and Lowther Hall MLC performed well given the sweltering conditions (40 degrees!), but Wesley eventuated the victors. A

singles and doubles tournament was also held between schools in the APS and GPSVSA at Caulfield Grammar MLC had three representatives in the GPSVSA team: Ros, Steph and Catherine, who all played well against tough oppostion The APS won the day, proving just too strong The season overall, however, was very successful, and a huge thanks to everyone who played and helped out also with junior development The team in its entirety was: Ros Frederick, Steph Andrew, Claire Macdonald, Kate Franklyn, Eliza O'Shaughnessy, Felicia Brown, Elizabeth Jesse, Alicia Tucker, Stacey Rosengren, Lucilla McCallum, Elizabeth Kotsis, Emma Satori, Rachel King, Ainslie Woods, Aimee White, Lucy Rayner, Catherine Copley, Jane Moran, Alison Thompson, Francine Ng, Nicci Howatt, Tia Starey, Kate Campbell, Jo Wilson, Nada Zito, Claire Holden and Sarah Wilson Thanks to these girls and also to Ms Nankervis for her help and support I wish the team well in 1998!

Captain: Claire Macdonald

With many fresh faces in the Senior Team this year, we were set for a lot of fun and fabulous prowesses on the Volleyball court With training on Tuesday afternoons and matches on Thursday afternoons, our two weekly doses of Volleyball provided us the chance to confidently take on any of the opponents that came our way The A Team players were Michelle Eastwood, Ruth Caldwell, Penny Watts, Rebecca Brown, Laura Crommelin, Alice Forsyth, Amy Hirst, and Christina Dickinson Our first match against Melbourne proved that the season ahead would be very successful with a 3-1 victory also providing us with many laughs The next match against PLC was

Sport Volleyball

our first tough match, with both sides showing a lot of skill and drawing at two sets all We defeated Genazzano 3-0 and drew with Ivanhoe at one set each, due to a time constraint

The B Team of Coco Pinnis, Ainslie Woods, Claire Holden, Kate Franklyn, Veronica Partowidjojo, Catriona Oliver were also very successful in their matches and very commited in their training Thanks a lot to Mr Nelson who coached us.

Captain: Christina Dickinson Vice Captain: Amy Hirst

P-rteMtl? ^ I

Drama College Play

'THE TAMING OF THE SHREW'

Was Shakespeare a chauvinistic old bard? Did he really believe women were to be caught and tamed like wild animals? Should there be such a thing as a male dominated marriage? Participants in the recent MLC College Production, William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew have had these questions and more on the tips of their lips for the past three months; and yet after three successful performances on the 4th, 5th and 6th of September, they still remain unanswered Perhaps the degree of uncertainty surrounding the issues raised in the play was what kept the combined cast of sixty students from MLC and Scotch College intrigued and unfazed by the seemingly endless rehearsals Either that or the sense of fun, counterbalanced perfectly with professionalism and enthusiasm, director Stephanie Bohni provided us with every Tuesday and Thursday night since June But tackling old William wasn't always as bright and loud as the final product suggested Assistant director Deborah Field-Farago placed a strong emphasis on the importance of the language of the play and extensive vocal coaching was required for the huge cast, many of whom had never encountered Shakespeare before The MLC Assembly Hall was transformed into a modern town of Padua and student

band "Fetish" took their place to the side of the stage each night looking rather like travelling buskers The cast, decked out in contemporary gear, made entrances left, right and centre, sometimes mid flight, sometimes on foot, sometimes on hands and knees and sometimes... on a lawn mower Overall, The Taming of the Shrew was a bright, lively, engaging and entertaining two hours There were girls dressed as boys, boys dressed as girls, loud and harsh characters, quiet and withdrawn characters and of course, a shrew The cast seemed to be dominated by Year 11 students mainly because this would be the last opportunity for them to be involved in the College Play because they are produced biannually It's not hard to imagine why MLC chooses to do this; the time and effort required from both staff and students is enormous, and unless the Dramatic Arts Department holds sausage sizzles on a daily basis, the budget certainly doesn't get any smaller In keeping with general responses to MLC productions, the audience feedback has only been positive, so, having matured out of our complaints of worn out bodies and tired brains, everyone involved has simply been left with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside Perhaps we have been tamed..

Katy Brooksbank Year 11

(The space is bright with an anticipation of good things. All are happy and enthusiastic)

The MLC Dramatic Arts Department certainly never leaves the icing off the cake This year, a program has been offered to VCE Drama students that would have Stanislavsky turning in his grave counting his frequent-flyer points Every alternate day, us would-be, could-be actors rock up to our classes (Offstage, there are routine groans and squeaks of nervousness)

We are greeted by either Stephanie Bohni, Felicity Donnoli or Dana Duncan, all of whom wear 'dramatic' earrings coupled with at least one article of clothing in the traditional drama black We expect to be required to spontaneously involve ourselves in a strange, symbolic dance or an embarrassing improvised scenario Both of which could possibly send most Maths and Science students running into a nearby cupboard, but no, bravely, us would-be could-bees spill through the Dwyer Hall door and face the challenges

(Bags are slammed down, doors are rattled and general murmur can be heard now.)

However, one lesson our expectations were to be proven drastically incorrect Strewn across the floor, the 1997 VCE drama students were told about an exciting, educational and amazingly enjoyable experience coming up at the end of the year We sat up quickly, goggle eyed, and listened attentively to an explanation of a 17 day Drama tour of England and Irelan d tha t woul d tak e plac e in December

(SFX: song - 'Come Fly With Me')

Twenty lucky people will be flying off to London and Dublin to visit dramatic institutions, see live theatre shows, and most importantly, shop at Harrods and do the Irish pub rounds (ordering lemonades, naturally) Rubbing shoulders with members of RADA, examining Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, dining at The Ritz and boarding overnight with an Irish family are prospects not all students are able to look forward to Organised by Felicity

II I! Drama Tour I n Sydney

Donnoli and Dana Duncan, the trip requires several fundraising events (including pocket money raises across the board!) which have already been kick started by a successful 'Rose and Shamrock' dinner and auction earlier in June All students amazingly now leap into drama classes hoping to be told of other forthcoming world wide tours There aren't many Chekovs' being performed in India at the moment, but we now live in anticipation of such things The first overseas Dramatic Arts trip ever, MLC is excited and very fortunate to be involved in such an educational and character building experience (A tableaux of enthralled students, centre stage. The music fades.)

But we're a dab hand at plane trips We're used to excursions over 250km long We have previously had to dial STD to reach home We've already spent days away from Melbourne in the name of MLC DRAMA Yes - we all went to Sydney this year; a sort of entree to the main course really Spending three days within walking distance to the Belvoir Street Theatre, the Sydney Opera House, and a mere bus ride from NIDA, was all par for the course Although, admittedly, most thought the free time at Manly was the best bit, the excursion aimed to enhance our knowledge of theatre and build our confidence in performing A two hour movement workshop at the National Institute of Dramatic Art basically covered all that and so we could all relax, guilt-free and do lunch with friends without feeling obliged to analyse the dramatic tensions of a focaccia.

(A series of symbolic movements to Enya music. All very stylised.)

So, Circular Quay, Newtown and Belvoir Street - there we've been Stratford-UponAvon, Bath, London and Dublin - here we come There's never a dull moment at the Dramatic Arts Department Perhaps Paramount will buy our story (Lights down, curtain closes, 'There's No Business Like Show business' fades up.)

Katy Brooksbank Year

11

Drama

Year 10 Cabaret

On Friday April 11, a small crowd gathered around the Year 10 Drama noticeboard, waiting in anticipation to see who was assigned to what parts in the Year 10 Cabaret

Over the following weeks the cast and crew put their hearts and souls into creating an outstanding prodution of "Hiss the Villain," which focuses on a dishonest bank manager named Snaker, who robs the Noble family of their life savings This poor family is forced to go begging for mere survival The story unflolds when Bowler, the bank clerk, dedicates himself to helping the Noble family retrieve the money which is rightfully theirs Throughout the course of the play, a number of romances unfold, and not surprisingly there is a happy ending As the play is melodramatic, we all enjoyed "hamming" up our characters, creating extremely humourous models of once realistic people

As the performance dates drew nearer and the rehearsal schedules increased, everyone began to get a little anxious

There was work to be done and only a small amount of time to do it in The promotional squad put hours into designing posters and sticking them around the school Our focus was not only on getting the play together, but making sure we had as many people coming to watch as possible Long lost relatives were getting unexpected calls and friends were told to put their lives on hold for just one night In the end, all the begging and persuading paid off, as we performed to a packed audience on both Thursday and Friday nights

I would say that during this roller-coaster ride, we have been drawn closer together as a group, learning things that other environments could never teach us Of course there were times when this roller-coaster took a plunge, but through the support and encouragement within our close-knit group, we were able to aim for the stars, and that we did!

Duncan Year 10

Cassie

Creative Writing

Foretold m

A slice of the moon hanging low in the sky in my last breathing moment, kiss me goodbye for a star shining brightly above of my tomb please promise to mind me, to leave me some room

Turn west with the sunset, don't look in mine eyes in the mirrored lake waters - the stars in their skies take time on a journey to where darkness falls in the tunnels of shadow, the eve of my calls With waters behind you, with nothing before keep travelling forward, don't fear anymore in a second, a heartbeat, an instant of pain you'll see all my oceans all over again

So keep to the pathways, still stare at the moon when its slice hangs like silver, the time will be soon then wisdom and knowledge, and law will abide with stars in the oceans, and you by my side

Jasmine Barker

Year 10

MyUndyingLoveforYou

I wait in the darkness

Frozen winds pierce my face

In the cover of darkness I can make

Believe it's you

I feel you like the rain, I feel you like

A short cloud building in my heart

I wonder if you know the pain to Want the one thing you haven't got

A hand brushes by my love

A smile fuels my steel inferno

I'm just a fool to believe

In the death of night and can you Don't leave me in the darkness

Take all the pride, all the dignity That's burning inside

Can't you see I'm standing naked I'll bear all the crosses and taunts When the madness stops we will

Anna Smit

Year 10

The Tram

Sitting

Waiting Here it comes!

Stand and wave in case it misses you Hurry and climb the steps "Fares please!" Click, click

"Thank you."-

Look to grab a seat

There are none 1 All are filled with giggling Year 10s, 11s and 12s

Talking in loud voices about the latest goss

Who did what to whom and when • v

And what happened at Maccas last night

So you grab a triangle and sway 3

to the Lurching

Screeching Seasick feeL

Oh, no

The Station

A mass of teenagers

Moving in a bunch towards the already full tram Aughhh!

No.. room.. can't.. breathe... That's better

Squished right down the very end

A sea of schoolbags looms

Creative Writing

A

Winter Storm

The wind whistles as it gently blows through the tree tops. To and fro, to and fro.

The first sign of a storm

The fog comes swiftly, full of mystery, a new surprise around every corner

Greyness

The world is bleak, filling you with a feeling of emptiness draining away all your energy

The clouds are alive, they are evil, glaring down

A sudden burst of thunder makes you jump, it is an explosion in the sky

The first drop of rain is an icy tingle on your hand

The rain is heavy

A cold trickle runs down your neck and a bead of water settles on the tip of your nose

The feeling of being truly wet

Open the door with cold, numb fingers.

At last

Hit by a blast of warm air and the smell of hot soup on the stove

The fire crackles and spits

The feeling of emptiness is gone

Listening to the gentle pattering of the rain outside, you are filled with a feeling of cosiness, comfort and warmth

Katie Molloy

Year 7 , fi -

Other World Journeying

In Memoriam Charlotte Fisher YfZ ,-'• 'v '

Quivering, humming, like to a harp's string gently plucked by the musical hands of fair Orpheus, I quietly bide

Vision is fled, O long, long since; for an age have I been alone in the dark, with the beat of my heart, the beat of my heart; a harp's diminuendo floats quietly with me, each sound rings more soft, each sound rings more clear than the previous trembling note

Let go.. Let go.. (no!)

Where there is darkness, Lord.. O Lord, send You

Verity Fisher

Year 12

Creative Writing

Yesterday- A Day in the Life of a Year Seven

J'm in Year 7, and life in Year 7 can get pretty hectic if you're someone like me, that is, someone who crams so much into her day that there's only just enough room left to breathe Just wait a second and I'll open my diary, and then I can tell you my definition of a 'typical' day

Right Day 3, a Wednesday At 8 am I'm through the school gates, straightening my blazer as I hesitantly trot past a prefect I turn left at the entrance to the library and trudge through the doors, hoping feverishly that there'll be a computer ^that's free \ Luckily there is, and I sit in front of the1 bright screen, typing in my network password with cold, less-than-nimble fingers Hurrah, I'm through Any e-mail? None, thank goodness, or I'd be compelled to read it and then obliged to write a reply, and today 1 just don't have the time I hastily type my message- a three sentence apology to a teacher who I'd arranged to meet in period 1, but after realising later that I'd been 0 reading my timetable upside dow.n I was forced to cancel

A whisper from a friend confirms that we have PE first period I haven't even changed, so the minute Roll Call is over f ifer dash out and grab my sports geart dive into it, put the rest of my stuff into my locker, slide my bag onto the shelves and swan down to the PEC, where Volleyball awaits me For an hour and a half I can relax, running around on the court a getting sweaty (the smell in the Chang Rooms isn't exactly pleasant, and Ij i say I'm totally responsible either) b* wouldn't you know it, it's my turn to put the nets away After heaving them into the storeroom I race back into my classroom and drop into a chair

Every minute has to be used effectively in order to finish whichever assignment it is that's been shoved forward in the list of deadlines; I pull on a jumper on and get to it How time flies when youid rather it be crawling before I know it, the period's over and I still haven't printed anything, so although the work's done there's no

The diary is flipped shut and I'm out to recess li

Drama, minute let the music discreetly, clutching another as What's nexf?" House

On passing my locker I grab an apple and a gulp of water Then it's back into the classroom to get my laptop, then back out to the printer queue to print out my assignment, then it's into the classroom again because I've forgotten my paper, followed by a minor misunderstanding about where I was standing before I left Once that's sorted out, I print as fast as technology will let me (a speedy 25 seconds) and as the bell rings smugly, I know I've got everything under control w J ' ^ ' I around Fitchett Hall for 80 your eyes, girls, and just lead you") and then exit ment meetings? i No, they're og^Monday Assembly? Not today I know: form group, and I have to hand in that assignment Right, off we go Soon form group is over J hunt around in my locker for my diary, find it under a scarf and a tube of sunscreen and thumb through it until I reach the timetable Gym, athletics, hockey, choir or chess?

* ' MMJr M JSnSr m L •'. r n'j • ' ^

Choir I can miss, seeing as I've already told them that I might not come today Aths training...hang on, wasn't that yesterday? Fine, so I can't tell the words "Day 2" from "Day 3" Gym...I've already been to five tiees, and that's the requirement So, hockey or chess? Well, chess is at 1:00 and hockey starts at 1:25, and with a bit of luck INI squeeze in a game of both

It's only lunchtime and I'm exhausted The day in the life of this year 7 is no way near over

Sarah

Wongseelashote Year 7

Observation1

She is perched,

Balancing precariously at the top of the tree, "The thin edge of the wedge."

Her nails are getting shorter, jagged Perpetually in her mouth, The white skin mutilated - ripped

V

Her hair sticks up, Affected by the cacophonous mumblings of voices It is blonde It has been black, bro""1 orange, red, short, long, layered / ' s 1

Her laugh, loud, harsh - will it cover her? Does she feel happy? Is she 'in'?

Or can they see the constant rumblings in her stomach?

She feels threatened, § Km f * f ^'

Her body rigid with years of false pretence, She knows I see through her

She averts her eyes, She must have control, Dominate, manipulate

She knows I see through her Sv-K ^M f

Her whole life - groping at the ladder, Clawing, grasping, splinters, the rotten wood

Collapsing at her feet,

She will not fall - she will not go back down m • jE^

Is she getting there? Is she at the top? Can they see her? Hear her?

Will they let her in?

What did she see when she finall scratched at that last door? r s

Nothing but aching fingers, empty stomachs, vacant smiles and hollow laughs

Observation 2

She sits silently,

Cross legged in the corner, Bodies swirl around her

Her eyes - open, honest, Calmly survey the room, Her head - tilted slightly upwards

Her hair sits unruffled, Framing her placid face, An expression of serenity

But she knows that people are watching, Laughing, snickering, Harsh whispers brush against her ears

I I \ Jms

She is an outsider

Her threatening presence, Shunned by groups of others

They glance in her direction^ Pity in their eyes, f t

But simultaneous relief also washes over their faces

They are glad they are not like her, Alone, detached, ft

Living a solitary existence

But she likes her world of silence

All her life, At the bottom of the ladder, Content to watch those clambering furiously above.

M

She does not have to pretend, Force her face into distorted expressions of happiness, i \

Push her body into deformed shapes of conformity

She is content

Satisfied to be herself, Living in a place of tranquillity, Others only hope to touch

Observation 3

She struts, Confidently along the corridor, Meeting the gaze of others with smug satisfaction

"Look at me," she implores, Her lips curl, A Into a polite recitation of "Thank yous"

She looks around her, Everything seems so small, Ants scurrying at her feet

Now,

She hides behind her pocket, Secure under her new cover "~9' •

But her hidden insecurities, Come closer to the surface, As she clutches wildly at her authority

She has climbed the ladder, Grabbing the rungs two at a time, It begins to wobble

y r "L - ' v\ i^f What does she do.no

Bony fingers pull

Heavy heeled sho Pointy elbows jab

^ / f tfylf

Something begins to prick her storm Pricking, piercing, poking Penetrating beneath her exteriof

What does she do now? / / { n v She stands taller | | r 6> V T

Laughs louder, moves faster a i I I

Dominating all who stand around her • / I 1 I J

Hoping to fool those who know

Creative Writing

Contemplation

I sit and observe, Contemplation, Comfortable in my pla

She is perched, Balancing precario at the top of the "The thin edge

I wonder how t Do they feel n Scared of pe

She feels threate Her body rigid with years of false pretence, , She knows I see thr t -{r • X^T/I I Do they watch their Tormented by those beneath them Scared if they can't co'fitrol

Bony fingers pull through her hair, Heavy heeled shoes stamp on her feet, Pointy elbows jab at her chest

There are few who are happy, Few who are content, Few, who are free to be who they please

She does not have to pretend, Force her face into distorted expressions of happiness, Push her body into shapes of conformity

But they are the ones who are scorned, Shunned for their assured sense of self, Persecuted for their happiness

She knows that people are watching,

Laughing, snickering

Harsh whispers brush against her ears \r~ i M ^

I sit and observe, Contemplation, Now, uneasy in my place

Sophie Kelly Year 12 s m

Creative Writing

Sandy Memories

iThe car crackles into the car park, bullying itself into the hotly desired shade Growling and objecting as we whine in the heat, its doors laboriously creak open One out, all out! Forgotten thongs tease me as my feet are burnt and stabbed by the unrelenting bitumen Quickly now, watch the road! Even reaching the sand is no relief, it laughs as its searing heat makes me dance

Towels fly and tumble to the sand, the umbrella lurches drunkenly in the wind and our shadows stretch to the cool of the sea Before we even settle down, shimmering sand has already begun to shift over our haven, carried by the throatily laughing wind We rapidly shake it from our towels, but it soon returns and we learn to accept its tingling brush on our skin • -^k/i

Here I am smacked with the grdasy sunscreen, peppered with the grit of one too many days in the sand Stay still, or you'll get it in your mouth "Ope cartoon of my mother's face plays before me, talking gibberish as the soaring beachtime rabble swallows her voice

Now don't go out too far!

I cartwheel and laugh my way to the lappin threats

• A

Come closer! Jump in!

Its bellowing presence, sharply punc Yet enticing It steals the sand from

e, my cries of delight drowned by its roaring by the agreeing squeals ot seagulli, is terrifying, r my feet as its waves roll away ¥

I feel the bubbling blue dream engulf me, as its heaving sighs toss me high above and I laugh in its playful excitement Then I slip within it and its salt bites my throat Where's the sun? I desperately paddle and fight up to its warmth again My breath sticks as I gulp sweet, sweet air, and it kisses my mouth and I'm new again

jT J ' >iC -->• v - ; v r

Waves cradle and carry me momentarily, then smoothly melt into the simmering shore Sometimes J am hastily flung to the doughy sand I silently stare at the sky as water laps my body in a whisper; stay in the shallows, its safer But its sighing darkness still calls me ' ^ET .sBv^X aXSKKm I

The sun glowers as I defy the slapping surf, its spite a creeping blush on my skin Soon I observe the impatientrfigure of a parent, waving madly from the glaring shore We've had enough, out now! See my brother^and I excavate the towels and toys, watch us giggle and smirk as the stubborn umbrella fights with my father Bloody nuisance They crankily swear at each other until my father ^'^mmm^^^DJ ^

MThen here we are on our laboured hike back up the dunes I am exhausted but glowing from my encounter with the elements My skin, not yet acknowledging its burn, has been whipped clean by the sea's spittle and spray

Look at my hair, Mum; mermaid dreadlocks! Baby drags her heels, souveniring the sand, and I already long for the ocean's caress But as we draw away from the day, the water's sparkling montage nestles behind bitten rocks and grass, and seemingly disappears

Gin Loftus

Year 12

Youth's Folly

A sole bard singing to tell his tale, To boastful warriors, drunken from ale Amidst the victorious shouts of joy, Lies the destiny of a single boy •vr,>

The prince whose right yet unclaimed, With bright young heart, still untamed A reign of mutiny lies ahead, One which sorcery cannot stead

The boy with righteous hand in place; A hard, firm grasp upon his mace, Solemn eyes to penetrate the soul, Searching for secrets of the 'ole,

Countless times intrigue caused pain, Blamed on the king, the ultimate reign

A son is trained - loyal and good, But this poor heir's misunderstood

Sights are soaring beyond his realm, He girds himself in battle helm

The warband which shall someday die, Under the flag of Prince Gerniye

Surrender he shan't, for loss of pride, It is this, that creates the great divide, From father to son, and mind to matter, Foolish pride to fuel the latter

He sees the light, like no other, An eternal flame, without cover Yet within his soul lies greater power, Discovered in his triumphing hour

Truly magic', some do say, I shake my head, and frown nay, "Nowadays science still appears, Forming the magic of yesteryears..."

Yet, unconvinced they pace away, 'An unfortunate soul,' I hear them say Simply laughing, they plainly stare What I understand they wouldn't dare

Creative Writing

So, as the bard continues his yarn, I see the women mend and darn, A delicate action with swift hands, As needles repair fraying strands.

Lady Gwyn with locks of gold, Eyes of blue, as rumours told A certain power lies in those eyes, Hungry for dominance, a perfect guise "

Attention is not with sewing alone, But rather to the queen's royal throne, A longing grows within the heart, To summon desire and be rid of this part, - 0

As merely one lady of the court, To one as ruler - wise, well taught Intelligence she has, as determination, Her betrothal could be an ordination

She glances at the Prince Gerniye, The sole man she would stand by In some fashion she would achieve, Her sole passion - to receive

So complex, in its royal traditions, Yet tedious, in its royal conditions Flaws in rules; a rise in taxes, Execution; death by battle axes

Contempt, treason, trust and faith, One's true personality hidden with scathe Yet I have found my own true magic, Life - truthful, honest, plain and tragic

Laura Downie

Year 10

Creative Writing

Hills march by as the car gains speed Hurtling around a sharp corner, gravel spews out from underneath the wheels, sending a shudder through the otherwise still interior

The gradual hum of the air conditioner is replaced by a whining siren, steadily increasing in volume An orange suited figure, eyes obscured by heavy goggles, blocks the road, waving an indicator light The familiar Authority uniform instils a sense of dread, causing churning in the pit of my stomach Slowly, the car glides to^a standstill The window slips fluidly into the door cavity, exposing the glaring raw suhlight Squinting, I wait for the figure to speak "Where are you heading?" she demands in a raw, harsh voice

I reply simply, "To the shelter hut, just over tl)e rise." I motion with my head toward the shiny structure a short distance away "Why?" I

She reluctantly explains the situation "Population control We've had a problem with illegal aliens evading placements, escaping to rural areas For spme reason they don't like the city tenements." Her tone becomes suspicious as she glimpses a pack on the seat beside me

"It's a picnic set - nothing illegal: I was planning to turn around and leave when I was finished eating." I mock the seriousness of the situation

"As long as you stay in sight there won't be a problem Don't go any further- we've got a potentially dangerous situation and I wonf have you contributing to il." Eyes narrowing, she partially removes the blockade, allowing enough space to drive through The car edges through the gap and continues along the tarmac

I raise the window®, shikti-ng out the penetrating rays The engine purrs into gear as I swing the car off the asphalt and onto the gravel'Shoulder Pushing operv the door, I stride toward the shelter shed, forcing opgn^|e^entrance with one elbow

Tinted windows reveal a panorama of the surrounding scenery, darkened to a pale grey by the perspex Benches line aft fourJvails at waist height Standing, pinheads of unfiltered light strike my face, searing my skin with their intensity The vista of ancient, skeletal eucalypts greets my eyes, nestled between dusty brown paddocks dotted with livestock My mind wanders as my eyelids slowly sink toward the ground

I wake up startled Disoriented, I glance around the shelter frantically I soon recall where I am, and notice the sky is painted a dirty grey, highlighted with glimpses of crimson Suddenly, I recall the presence of the suited woman I gaze in her direction; the blockade remains but she is gone The only sound is the faint hum of a retreating motor Gazing toward the barricade, I detect the orange coveraliyt lies in\a crumpled heap, shredded and stained I am alone

A distant rumbling grows louder as I collect my bags, wary of the time. A fleet of vehicles suddenly clears the curve in a gruiBbfing stream The convoy is headed by a threatening bulldozer, travelling swiftly despite its bifIk A formation of cars and vans follow Lastly, mammoth lorries carry thousands of people p- delinquents fleeing the confining city I stand inside the shelter, the cfround shuddering as the caravan approaches The bulldozer slows as a van accelerates to take the lead Slowfy, I preep from the shelter, my pack clutched to my side I face the van with shielded eyes

The door swings open, revealing a fapmiliar masculine figure, illuminated by hundreds of pairs of headlights I speak "How many this time?"-

The only response is a withering glance, as the driver restarts the engine

Sighing, I clamber into tire cab I switch on the CB radio, activating the mouthpiece "Rendezvous complete, checkpoint clear We're bringing them in."

Emily Barnes

Year 12

The Concert Choir led by Mrs Jane Elton Brown has successfully completed another exciting year of the Gala Concert, Church Services and other special events Our very special and most beautiful event for 1997 was the performance of Mozart's Requiem at St Paul's Cathedral in the city.

The chorus began at 3:15pm on Sunday 22nd June and had the audience of over 1000, of which both members of the MLC community and the general public attended, in awe and somewhat, totally absorbed for approximately 1 hour The height of the Cathedral ceilings and the absolute massiveness of the space was not the only contributor to the success of the performance, for it was the atmosphere of such a tremendous location that was the true scene-setter.

* 1

The choir of 300 or so female voices, students and staff accompanied by the smaller, but certainly louder, male voice choir had been rehearsing since the beginning of the year, including weekend and evening rehearsals whereby both choirs, orchestra and soloists were brought together to perfect the masterpiece Prior to the Requiem, the choir had performed in the SS School Church Service

Music Choir Report

held on MLC Open Day, something that had previously never been done By then preparations were well underway for the annual Gala Concert on 23rd June at the Concert Hall On this occasion the Concert Choir sang, for the second half of the program, a shortened score of Mozart's Requiem. This performance was thoroughl y enjoye d by the entir e audience

Then the Middle School (Years 9 and 10) began rehearsing for their Church Services, which have, more recently been followed by rehearsals for the SS Speech Night, whereby all members of the Concert Choir will sing at Dallas Brooks Hall, bidding farewell to 1997's Year 12s This year has been a colossal year for the Concert Choir, with much effort involved on behalf of Mrs Elton Brown, Mr Horowitz and Ms Ashton Smith However, next year has only just begun, and who knows what lent, enjoyment and fulfilment it will and remain with the next group of Concert Choir members for many a year to come

Laura Fitzgerald Year 12

JSS Chamber Singers

JSS Orchestra Yr 9 Madrigals

Concert Band

Senior Madrigals

Senior Strings

Symphonic Band

Male Voice Choir

Concert Orchestra

1997 has been, as ever, a busy and fruitful year for the MLC Concert Orchestra Our year kicked off with a joint orchestral venture, in which the concert Orchestra combined with the Scotch Symphony Orchestra for a series of rehearsals culminating in a performance of an excerpt from Prokofier's "Romeo and Juliet" at the end of February Aside from the valuable orchestral experience, many new friendships were made, along with much surreptitious assessment (on both sides) of each others new desk partner which inevitably occurs when an all-female orchestra joins with an all-male one

After recovering from this shock to the system, we were given the privilege of in Rotary's "Schools in Harmony" Music Festival, in which Senior Madrigals and the Senior String Quartet also took part The work then began in earnest, with the focus swinging to the Gala Concert preparations with many rehearsals under the guidance of our conductor, Mr Fitzgerald, and with the assistance of our tutors, we turned

in a fine performance of the first movement of Schubert's "unfinished" symphony and a music making experience new to manySun Music III" by Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe Both pieces were enthusiastically received by the larqe Concert Hall audience, and our eternal thanks go to Mr Fitzgerald and all the sessional tutors.

Term three saw a period of musical experimentation in rehearsal with music played ranging from Gershwin to Vaughan Williams to "Mission Impossible." The iddle of term also saw the sad departure of Mr Fitzgerald, who passed the baton (excuse he pun!) to the capable hands of Mr Loughlin, who in his short time at the helm has already impressed us with his skill and experience, not to mention a somewhat sardonic wit Under his guidance, the MLC Concert Orchestra looks set for continued success and musical growth - good luck for 98 guys!

Quynh-Nhu Nguyen Year 12

1997 has been Ecocare's first full year of experimenting with environmental issues both in and outside of MLC It has been a valuable year for the Ecocare Executive who have been striving to find practical solutions to environmental hazards within the school and ways of informing and activating students around these This year we have focused on issues such as paper recycling (not just for printing paper), compost alternatives for MLC's food scraps and the polystyrene 'plague' Overthrowing the use of polystyrene at MLC has been our goal and to achieve this, we have made both educational and practical inroads We talked to all levels of the school about why waste, particularly when it isn't biodegradable, is so bad and invited them to voice their support by signing our commitment of aims We are currently involved in the sponsorship arrangements for the production of 800 ceramic mugs which will hopefully be used instead of polystyrine cups at parent-teacher interview nights and such occasions where the toxic substance seems to spring up

Ecocare

Ecocare has helped clean up Australia watched and learnt about the platypus in its natural habitat, spoken by satellite to students in Japan about the environment and has taken visits to the Zoo, (as part of our sponsorship of the Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat), to listen to Jazz Ecocare is now looking forward to our weekend fieldtrip to Point Nepean where we will begin working on an MLC-designated site by pulling noxious weeds out We will also be going on a bushwalk before coming back to think about how we can inspire, not only other students, but each other, making everybody feel like they can make a difference to our environment

Georgie Arnott Year

12

Concert Orchestra

1997 has been, as ever, a busy and fruitful year for the MLC Concert Orchestra Our year kicked off with a joint orchestral venture, in which the concert Orchestra combined with the Scotch Symphony Orchestra for a series of rehearsals, culminating in a performance of an excerpt from Prokofier's "Romeo and Juliet" at the end of February Aside from the valuable orchestral experience, many new friendships were made, along with much surreptitious assessment (on both sides) of each others new desk partner which inevitably occurs when an all-female orchestra joins with an all-male one

After recovering from this shock to the system, we were given the privilege of in Rotary's "Schools in Harmony" Music Festival, in which Senior Madrigals and the Senior String Quartet also took part.The work then began in earnest, with the focus swinging to the Gala Concert preparations with many rehearsals under the guidance of our conductor, Mr Fitzgerald, and with the assistance of our tutors, we turned

in a fine performance of the first movement of Schubert's "unfinished" symphony, and a music making experience new to many"Sun Music III" by Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe Both pieces were enthusiastically received by the large Concert Hall audience, and our eternal thanks go to Mr Fitzgerald and all the sessional tutors

Term three saw a period of musical experimentation in rehearsal with music played ranging from Gershwin to Vaughan Williams to "Mission Impossible." The iddle of term also saw the sad departure of Mr Fitzgerald, who passed the baton (excuse the pun!) to the capable hands of Mr Loughlin, who in his short time at the helm has already impressed us with his skill and experience, not to mention a somewhat sardonic wit Under his guidance, the MLC Concert Orchestra looks set for continued success and musical growth - good luck for '98 guys!

Quynh-Nhu Nguyen Year 12

1997 has been Ecocare's first full year of experimenting with environmental issues both in and outside of MLC It has been a valuable year for the Ecocare Executive who have been striving to find practical solutions to environmental hazards within the school and ways of informing and activating students around these This year we have focused on issues such as paper recycling (not just for printing paper), compost alternatives for MLC's food scraps and the polystyrene 'plague' Overthrowing the use of polystyrene at MLC has been our goal and to achieve this, we have made both educational and practical inroads We talked to all levels of the school about why waste, particularly when it isn't biodegradable, is so bad and invited them to voice their support by signing our commitment of aims We are currently involved in the sponsorship arrangements for the production of 800 ceramic mugs which will hopefully be used instead of polystyrine cups at parent-teacher interview nights and such occasions where the toxic substance seems to spring up

Environment

Ecocare

Ecocare has helped clean up Australia, watched and learnt about the platypus in its natural habitat, spoken by satellite to students in Japan about the environment and has taken visits to the Zoo, (as part of our sponsorship of the Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat), to listen to Jazz Ecocare is now looking forward to our weekend fieldtrip to Point Nepean where we will begin working on an MLC-designated site by pulling noxious weeds out We will also be going on a bushwalk before coming back to think about how we can inspire, not only other students, but each other, making everybody feel like they can make a difference to our environment

Georgie Arnott

Year 12

10 Ceramics (Semester One)

"Rock Lobster" Group Project Year

Susannah Good Year 7 Art

Alex andra James Year 12 TD&D

Catherine Copely Year 12 Art

Julie Chiang Year 11 Graphics

Sally Reiter Year 10 Ceramics

Karin Skipworth Year 12 TD&D

Year 7

Woodwork

Photography

Art Week

Images from King Neptune

Banquet

On the night of the 6th of August, the air was filled with the smell of sea water as MLC's Betty Jackson Hall had undergone a huge transformation from an ordinary school hall into a world of the sea and the creatures within It was the evening of the Grand Opening of King Neptune's Banquet and all had come to view the installation described as a "visual and musical feast" Such a theme had never been attempted before In fact the idea of having a theme had never been done before, but it proved to be a huge success as people left with an enchanted impression of the Art Department's dynamic innovation

A life size model of King Neptune greeted people in an entrance hallway lined with viewing boxes capturing the atmosphere of the underwater world The use of Year 7s skills on Claris Works created slide shows of underwater themes, such as mermaids and fish On the other side the creative use of shoes swam around the sea environment Proceeding next into a celebration of the sea, banquet tables centered the room and were topped with food, most common to the underworld Despite this unreal imaginary food, waiters paraded around with the likes of sushi, calamari, scallops and chips Through the exhibition the combined

King Neptune's Banquet

forces of Junior school to Year 11 commemorated their works and captured your fishy instincts, preparing people for the parade ahead Soon, the talents of the Cato percussion ensemble were heard and led to a choreographed procession of mermaids and sea creatures The music turned into a suitable song "Underwater love" followed by a Year 11 fashion show inspired by the theme which could easily parade the catwalks of professional fashion shows, providing they accepted themes of crabs, clams and fish!

As the night ended, people who departed into the foyer noticed a huge formation of ceramic fish As they took a closer look at individual fish which had been created by every teacher at MLC they laughed and cried at their ironically creative outlets using feathers, sparkles, electronic pieces and bright colours reflecting the exhibition

The success of the evening has produced an art extravaganza never to be forgotten by those who visited the sea world of King Neptune and every person involved must be congratulated on the exhibition of sea art

Catherine Copley Year 12

Languages

Herman

German in Senior School has been exciting, challenging, and enjoyable for all those involved During LOTE (Language Other Than English) Week we enjoyed Berliner Donuts with lovely German cakes in class for special occasions.

For the Year 12 class, the focus has been on improving everyone's conversation skills for CAT 2, an oral exam; and also being accustomed to writing in German for a variety of discourse forms and themes The class has been lucky to have lessons with other German teachers, where the class practises their oral skills, discussing colloquial German terms and other phrases which enhance the German

conversation The topics that we have studied this year include Love, Environment, Migrants living in Germany, and an intensive look at Young People's Hopes and Dreams for the Future, in order to prepare for CAT 3 A few of the students in the class had been on trips to Germany during their summer break and so it has been interesting to hear about their experiences in the country that many of us dream of visiting some day

Year 12 German has been thoroughly enjoyable, during which students have improved dramatically and have proved to be excellent ambassadors for Australia on visiting Germany in the future

Laura Fitzgerald Year 12

Hosting a French Exchange Student

"Look, her plane has landed Dad, hold the sign higher so she can see it Hey, do you reckon that' s her? She look s kinda French!"

That's how our six weeks with Emilie, our French exchange student, began Her first day in Australia was the last day of Term Two, so after a long sleep-in we made our way over to MLC to see the school and buy the uniform This was a huge change for Emilie, who said in France they don't care what you wear to school , "A s lon g as yo u don' t come naked."

During the holidays we managed to fit in trips to Sydney, Canberra and Adelaide An Adelaide Wildlife Park we visited even allowed us to hold the koalas there - one of the highlights of Emilie's stay (and mine, because I'd never held a koala either!) We also hand fed wallabies and

Languages

French Exchange

kangaroos At the Melbourne Zoo, Emilie had the guts to hold a snake all by herself! Emilie was not looking forward to going to school after the holidays, but once she arrived she realised how different Australian schools are from those in France School hours are much longer in France, and they don't have any elective subjects Emilie took advantage of this at MLC and her subjects included Cooking, Drama and Photography, which was her favourite Emilie really enjoyed school and participated in many activities including School Volleyball, Choir and House Music Sh e especiall y like d the "formal festivities"

Six weeks went by very quickly and our whole family was sad to see her go I can't wait to see her again when I stay with her over Christmas!

Sarah Patterson Year 11

Languages

French anil Japanese

Being a Host Sister

At the airport:

"No Mum, that's not her, she isn't blonde.. No Mum, she's not part of the American Hockey Team No Mum, that's a boy!"

Geraldine and I were friends right from the start OK, so there were times when we'd look at each other in total confusion and dive for a Dictionary, but who cares? After some sign language or artwork, things were always clearer (Yes, hosting someone can improve you Pictionary skills as well as your French!)

She arrived in the Term Two break, so we had the perfect excuse to go on a family holiday! We stayed in Canberra and Sydney, being classic tourists (We even swam at Bondi Beach, despite it being 10 degrees Celcius outside!)

Exchange students are a great reason to avoid homework - Fairy penguins and koalas are, after all, much more interesting than analytical essays.

Geraldine made me think about my own identity Suddenly, I saw Melbourne through the eyes of a stranger I could appreciate our history and our culture We take so many things for granted, like the sculptures on street corners or the fairy lights in our trees Breakfast became exciting, because of the Weetbix and the Vegemite Going somewhere by tram was an adventure

I also learnt fascinating stuff about life in France, such as:

People eat their oysters ALIVE!! (Yuk) They go skiing in PE classes (Cool) There's no school uniform! (Woohoo!) They don't have Bananas in Pyjamas (Doh!) They do have Pizza Hut (Thank goodness)

I taught Geraldine heaps of useful expressions, such as "This sucks" and

"Pretty cool" (Her English teacher wil doubt be very impressed with me!) no

She in turn taught me all the trendy French expressions. (And if you're always making mistakes, so is the textbook!)

Geraldine is back in France and I will go to Grenoble with her over Christmas I can't wait to see her again!

Alison Thomson Year 11

Japanese

It was the beginning of Japanese and Mrs Taylor came up to me and asked if I wanted to model a Kimono I said, "Yes." I was asked to wear nothing but stockings and a t-shirt First, I had to put on these really different shoes that made my feet hurt but that was just the beginning There were towels and bows and ribbons and boofy things that made you look really large After I had the whole kimono on, I was so hot that the lady who was teaching us that day had to keep taking out her fan and fanning me It was really embarrassing The most embarrassing part of all was trying to sit down and I couldn't! It was really funny at the end because it had taken an hour to put on but it only took 4 minutes to take it all off again! Overall, I enjoyed dressing up in a kimono!

Stephanie Huggett Year 7

Could you ever get sick of the Sumo hype?

Over 1000 people crammed into the Assembly Hall and bumped elbows with international media in an attempt to enrich our learning and see if the stage which normally holds teachers could really take the weight of a 270kg man and friends When the Sumo wrestlers visited MLC, students from schools all over Victoria were invited and there were security guards and police to match

As these Japanese idols descended the stairs of the bus in their traditional attire and proceeded up the rather steep looking stairs of Cato, Year 1 students greeted them in Japanese

The entire occasion had a great atmosphere, with the Assembly Hall decorated with posters and welcomes

Languages Suinos visit MLC

written in Japanese to cater for the sumos, for only one could speak English There was also an MLC flag in prime position, appearing on every news channel along with the sumo wrestlers in Australia and Japan

For the students who don't study Japanese and could not manage to sneak into the hall, getting to class was a challenge, with all the school gates locked and a large area fenced off around the hall

For the Year 12 Japanese students, it was a chance to obtain a better understanding of Japanese sports in Japan To the question, could you ever get sick of Sumo hype, the awe struck faces of the younger students down the front summed it up with inquisitive innocence, of course, no

Rachael Kirby Year 12

International Student Report

Fresh from Malaysia and eager for new experiences and challenges, I landed in MLC in 1996 As eager as I was to come to MLC, I was terrified of having to go through the term in a drastically different environment amongst total strangers My first hurdle definitely had to be surviving the first day of school Although I had been to the Orientation Day earlier in the holidays, I had still been left as lost as ever Even now, I can still remember vividly how it went.

I walked slowly, faltering with each step I took Weaving my way through the crowd, I searched desperately hoping for a familiar face I spotted two people standing awkwardly at the Centenary entrance amidst the confusion Relief washed over me My heart pounded as I approached them They welcomed me warmly just as eager as I was to make conversation with someone.

The first day had not been a 'bed of roses' The school was a maze and even now I still have no idea where Middle School is It was difficult having no family to provide emotional and moral support during my first few weeks at school. I returned daily to a small room in the MLC Boarding House to a room-mate who was a

total stranger However, one relief was that I have not experienced any form of racial discrimination in MLC Before coming, many Malaysians and Singaporeans held or still hold the belief that Australians are racist, particularly against Chinese On the contrary, MLC was like a huge melting pot Students came from all over the globe

Lesson time was an interesting aspect of MLC life The teacher-student relationship was definitely different The teachers here were like friends, ever-ready to help Back home, teachers never spent extra time assisting students, that was the tutors' job However, as helpful as the teachers were, I faced great difficulty in the technology field In addition to adjusting to the new syllabus, I had to learn about laptop technology, since we never used computers in Malaysia I still remember how a handful of girls and I struggled, particularly through Accounting classes trying to keep up with the rest

Leaving all those problems aside, the hardest and sometimes most nerve-racking part of coming to MLC was enduring the continual process of trying to fit in For someone like me,

whose first language is English, I found myself caught in the middle Overseas students from the same countries tend to click together due to the common mother tongue, and I could not understand their conversations Australian lingo was hard to decipher and there was an initial cultural barrier I understood that most overseas students felt more comfortable talking in their mother tongue As for the Australians, friendship groups had already been formed However, with time, I did find my place, although it is not as comfortable as I would like it to be

It did get really frustrating at times Australia is not my home and it is not where I grew up Coming meant having to give up the securities of Malaysia I realised that coming in Year 11 would be hard as everyone would already have their own group of friends However, there were people out there who made an effort to make me feel comfortable Those people really made a difference and I will be grateful to them always

Jean Mei Lim Year 12

They say that debaters love to hear the sound of their own voices Why else would they commit themselves to year after year of team meetings, the pressure of having to 'perform' in front of an audience (without the luxury of weeks of rehearsal), having to 'think on your feet', the adrenali n pumpin g experience of a secret topic or advised debate, where it all has to come together in one hour?

'The Great Kate Debate" on Friday 5 September in the MLC Assembly Hall may have answered this question for many people It seemed fitting that Interschool Debating at MLC for 1997 should draw to a close with the success of this event

A co-production with Scotch College, it saw Yea r 12 student s participating in a debate which scrutinised Shakespeare and his works for evidence of misogyny. Speakers exercised the many debating skills they had developed over 3 or 4 years in Interschool Debating and entertained their sizeable audience in the process There was no extrinsic reward, or competition points, at stake So what was in it for them? Perhaps their obvious enjoyment of the occasion was attributable to the adrenalin rush of debating under pressure? Or was it the social interaction? I draw attention

Debating Inter-School Debating

to this event, not because it was more important than any other inter-school debate the girls have competed in this year Not at all Rather , thi s debat e typified the attitude and the integrity of MLC Interschool Debaters this year All season, from March to August, girls had to work as a team

Sometimes this meant week s of researc h leading up to a prepared topic debate; sometimes the pressure was more concentrated in the secret topic or advised debates, when girls had just a few minutes to dream up their inspirational, witty and compelling arguments And yet so few girls ever saw this! MLC Interschool Debates generally took place in front of a tiny audience, if there was any at all On the one hand, this was disappointing: MLC debaters deserved to have more spectators to suppor t the m and to witness their tussles and triumphs On the other hand, this speaks volumes for the commitment and the character of MLC debaters, particularly those in our Year 12 teams who had been involved in Interschool Debating for 3 or 4 years , with ver y few people to witness their efforts over those years Debates, like any other team sport, are not won by individual 'stars' alone Ofte n th e

impressive performance of an individual in a debate is as muc h du e to th e collective wisdom of the team, or a terrific rebuttal or two given to her by a team member There is no place for selfishness in debating Having said that, however, there were som e excellen t performances, repeatedly recognised by the DAV adjudicators in debates throughout the competition The following debaters were judged 'Best Speaker' on more than one occasion: Margaret Shaw (Year 12); Natalie Fan (Year 11); Jane Terry and Clare Wellard (Year 10); and Laura Tarzia and Earlene Silvapulle (Year 9 ). These girls deserve our congratulations, as do the D1 and C2 teams, who missed out on the finals by a mere point in one debate Finally, our congratulations go to our B2 team, who had a very successful undefeated season, progressing through to the 'octofinals ' befor e finall y losing to a strong team from Trinity We look forward to their leadership of MLC debating in 1998, and trust they will be as positiv e and committed as this year's Year 12s were

Graham Parr SS Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator

Physics Physics CAT 1

After endless deliberation and conferences with a slightly exasperated Physics Teacher, we made a decision on the topic of our CAT We were going to test the viscosity of glycerine (ie: how quickly it flowed or didn't flow)

At the risk of being monotonous, we filled out endless equipment requisition forms (one), details of method and set up (three) and purchased exercise books (two) from the Bookroom, extending Taryn's Boarder's Account a little further Actually, the above activities were possibly the easiest part of the entire project (full name: Extended Practical Investigation) Whilst the Einsteins of Year Twelve Physics stressed about how their super-duper deluxe models of sound detection would perform without quality insulation and STP (standard temperature and pressure) lab conditions, we were up in the Audio Visual department contemplating the complexities of opening a video camera tripod. Several lessons later, we emerged from AV as competent camera operators and obtained the smelly, oily lubricative fluid (glycerine) from the overworked lab assistant, Ms Tao After which, we attempted to set up a falling sphere viscometer before figuring out exactly what it was At this point, and not really surprisingly, we ran into a bit of trouble Although some people would find filming a ball falling through glycerine in a tall, cylindrical glass extremely simple, getting the lighting right and focussing the shot proved to be the real challenge.

After numerous test runs, we decided to go for the real thing and actually collect some data This involved dropping a ball into the glycerine and filming its descent to the bottom of the cylinder.and then attempting to retrieve it using a huge magnet This required a great deal of skill for Taryn, while Pia suffered RSI (repetitive strain injury) from pressing the record button (possibly the hardest part of the entire project) At last we had found the rhythm of recording data and setting up the equipment for the next variable. Everything seemed to be running smoothly.and then disaster struck

Some one (who will remain unnamed) accidently broke the glass cylinder we were using Luckily, Ms Tao (lab assistant extraordinaire) came to the rescue With her quick thinking and a speedy trip across to the Chemistry Department, she managed to "borrow" yet another glass cylinder With that catastrophe behind us, we completed the practical work, and returning to AV, our home away from home, extracted distance-time data from the video tape.once again with the much needed assistance of Rob (Mr AV) Finally, we compiled the data and wrote the report in true VBOS CAT style and now await with all fingers crossed for good results, we hope

Taryn Lay & Pia Hayat Year 12

Marshmead

End

The trees, the water, Looks like they never end

A green mass goes on forever

The blue ripples continue to descend

But everything always ends,

No matter if you want it to or not

You have to let go of the Moments, the memories in just one shot

One painful and powerful shot, One that changes you forever,

Just knowing that those days will never

Never dwell on me again, Never the same feeling or Experience, just as they were then

Then, was in the past, A past of fun and laughter

A past of not happily ever after

After, after it's over we all look back

Sophie Ryan

Away...

from all the yelling

Away from all the fights

I run away to Utopia

Where no one is in sight.

Away

Away to hear the birds

chirp

Flying in the heavenly crimson sky.

Up to lush green pastures

It's where I watch and sigh.

As I sit at the Cross and ponder I see the cows down yonder.

Clumped up all together, In this breezy weather

They all begin to moo

As if they're asking "Who are you?"

Silently I wonder

Until there's a crack of thunder

It's all so very frightening

When all I see is lightning

Scurrying like a timid mouse

Until I reach my house I want to go away again It's all I really yearn

So when the weather's fine again.

Away I will return

Alena Sharp

Poems

The Unnatural Act of Nature

Carelessly, impervious to beauty, it arrives, Mighty in its full blown destruction of everything in its path

The evil flame licks at the tree trunks, Demanding their lives; Swallowing their existence,

Like a whirlpool

The animals begin to run, but the fire grabs them,

Pulling them into it's stronghold; It rips through the forest, Then dies

Leaving behind a path of decaying skeletons, The unnatural act of nature

Marguerite Tarzia

* "Watching the sunrise"

-Pippa Burford

* "Covering Mr Best in mud and water on expedition"

-Evelyn Tadros

* "Making brandy snaps at 3am in the morning"

-Anonymous

* "Sitting up in the tent at night talking on expedition"

-Alice Baker

* "The first time I saw the full moon rise up over the mountains"

-Liz Gill

* "When I finished the Titanic Time Trials"

-Adele Kelly

* "Sleeping at the Cross"

-Anonymous

* "Surfing the dunes on expo"

-Bridget Bashem

* "Getting my duckling"

-Bee Feller

*" Creek bashing"

-Katherine Brown

* "Annoying everyone by singing at breaky duty"

-Cressy Mc Donald

* "Beach on two day expedition"

-Bobbi Snider

*" Seeing my parents on Parents' Visiting Weekend"

-Laura O'Neill

*" Walking through top gate for the last time(Joke!)"

-Jae Stirling

Marshmead Best k Worst...

* "Major Inspection mornings"

-Naomi Raggat

* "Doing self-evaluations"

-Emma Officer

* "Cressy singing at breakfast duty"

-Bee Feller

* "Tea towel duty in the freezing wind"

-Alice Baker

* "Hitting my face on the paper towel holder"

-Marita Lilley

* "Getting stressed over breaking Emma's tape"

- Jess Mc Donnel

* Capsizing my canoe"

-Laura O'Neill

* "Emma asking me this question"

-Isabelle Waters-Lynch

* "The third day of four day expedition"

-Liz Gill

* "Standing at the bottom of the knolls on four day expedition"

-Bobbi Snider

* "Bridget hurting her back and not being able to come on Expo with me - the silly girl!"

-Cressy Mc Donald

* "Being separated on four day expedition"

-Bridget Basham

* "When our chickens died"

-Margurite Tarzia

* "Bill chasing me in the chook pen, while I was walking through"

-Jasmine Mc Gregor

Boarding House

Home Away From Home

Something which helps to make MLC such a unique and diverse school is its Boarding house, which is home to approximately 100 girls and 10 staff from all over Victoria, Australia and overseas Being a boarder at MLC is like belonging to a small community within such a large school It's very different to being a day girl, and we make the most of it After all, we can sleep in late and shower during spares, because we live only 100 metres from our classrooms!

The boarding house also gives us a chance to be involved in things like the Boarders Annual Play and 'Boarderline', the boarding house's magazine We also organise a Year 11 & 12 semi formal and get to go to Boarders' Socials held by schools within the area We also get to attend Boarders' Dancing Classes and sports competitions, such as netball and basketball Each Boarding House staff member also heads a team of girls in what are called TAG (Tiddeman Activity Group) Teams TAG Teams give boarders from different year levels the chance to interact

as a group and go on excursions to places like the Hard Rock Cafe

Every week we attend a half hour chapel service with Rev Sterner-Lind where we sing songs and contribute to discussions and activities Once a year, each TAG team organises its own chapel service, where the boarders of that TAG team are basically responsible for running the entire chapel service

Boarding life also has a down side, such as waiting in line for phones and showers, not being able to receive phone calls after 9.30pm, getting gated, having to sign out to breakfast, doing kitchen duty and having lights out (for years 7 - 11) However, these things teach us how to be patient and tolerant

The Boarding House is definitely a very special part of MLC, and all the people who live in the boarding house make it a lively and fun place to be!

Kasey Brunt Year 11

In a house where over 100 girls and mistresses live and work together, celebrating everybody's birthday on over 100 separate days can work out to be quite a demanding feat! Although each girl receives a birthday cake on their birthday, the Boarding House holds an annual Boarder's Birthday Night, where fun and festivities reach an all time high, and everyone's birthday is celebrated at the same time

Every year, the mistresses put on a mystery show for the boarders This mysterious 'act' leaves all the boarders guessing and in the past themes have included "The Brady Bunch," "Snow White" and "70s Music Festival." Boarders also receive a birthday present on the night and it is something different every year This yearTiddeman House gave each boarder a waterbottle, which the boarders have sported all over the house and at day school

The night begins with the mistresses performing their play, and food, prepared especially by the Boarding House Kitchen Staff, follows and consists of entrees, mains and desserts The huge birthday

Boarding House Boarders' Birthday

Night

cake prepared is cut after dessert, and serves as afternoon tea for the next few days The tradition with the cutting of the cake and blowing out of the candles is that the youngest boarder in the house blows out the candles and the girl who has been in the Boarding House the longest cuts the cake

After this, boarders then have a chance to show off their talent in the Boarders" Talent Show Dancing, singing and acting are common in this segment of the night, and during this the dining room fills with laughs (at the funny acts) and appreciation for everyone who contributes

At the end of the night, exhausted boarders move up to their rooms and often fall into deep sleeps, with a good night having been had by all The Boarder's Birthday Night is a tradition which I'm sure will continue for a long time into the future and will continue to be a successful and enjoyable evening for all boarders celebrating their special day

Melissa Wei Year 12

A Tribute to Mrs Brnailwav

Tiddeman House Director 1992 1997

Mrs Lynn Broadway arrived at Methodist Ladies College in 1992, taking up the position as Director of Tiddeman House A smiling face amongst many nervous, new boarders, it was almost impossible to tell that she herself was new She took to the somewhat challenging role with ease; open to new ideas and a range of opinions

Mrs Broadway has led the Boarding House through times of change, with the improvement in facilities over the six years being immense We have seen renovations in kitchen facilities; living areas; and much new furniture Her strong, yet approachable leadership style, has meant that may good ideas have become reality It has also meant that when faced with either a challenge or dilemma, Mrs Broadway has dealt with it in a calm fashion, reaching reasonable, balanced solutions

The sense of community has been strong with Mrs Broadway as leader Her ability to interact with girls of varying ages has helped establish a warm, happy environment One which embodies ma ny of the same qualities as home, yet distinct in its differences. She has managed to become an integral part

of the community, invoking the House spirit through her pride in all Boarding House activities, and wearing the boarding house colour, red, proudly.

Amid the excitement of Boarding House life, M rs Broadway has managed to raise a family, two boys, Tristan and Jayson It has been comforting having a family figure as leader of this community And her family have also helped shape this environment, adding character and diversity

It goes without saying that Mrs Broadway will be greatly missed when she leaves at the end of the year to take on a new challenge While the Boarding House will obviously not be the same once she has left, we can only hope that her many achievements are both remembered and reflected. We hope she takes with her many warm memories, as most do when they leave the Boarding House The dedication and determination she has shown while at MLC highlight that she has the capacity to be successful at all future pursuits We wish her luck, with best wishes for her future and family.

Tia Starey Year 12

Community Involvement

Middle School Contribution to Community Service

At the end of First Term, I was confronted with two empty weeks of holidays and not a lot planned Using my family contacts, I sent off a letter of application to my sister's Primary School enquiring if I could work as a volunteer in their School Holiday Program Two weeks later I had received a letter in reply and a phone call, accepting me as a volunteer

Although I found this work very demanding at the end of the day I always felt satisfied I was able to involve myself in the children's activities such as outdoor games, reading, cooking, and craft activities I helped the staff with the care and safety of the children and was able to respond to their needs. This first hand experience allowed me to contribute my own knowledge and skills to the community, and it was fantastic to sit back and reflect on how I actually helped, organised, and supervised the children

CTC was a fantastic experience and opened up to me the world of being assertive, aware and responsible I learnt to be patient, understanding, and to work cooperatively with both the children and staff. I developed good coping strategies in difficult situations I gained a great deal of self satisfaction from all this, and knowing that I took the noose and did my bit for the community gave me the biggest buzz!

Voluntary work is a unique opportunity available to all young people In giving to others, you always receive something back in return I contributed my time to the community and in return I gained knowledge, skills, responsibility, self awareness and satisfaction. All these factors become so much more important to you, once you have taken the first step and gone out into the community to help others and make a real contribution

Caitlin Tierney

Year 9

I made my Contribution to the Community by volunteering at a child care centre/ kindergarten in Balaclava. I really enjoyed this work I got to know the children very well and had a great time reading to them, playing with them in the playground and experiencing many other activities As much as the children enjoyed my company, I equally enjoyed my visits to the centre.

I also made a Contribution to the Community by volunteering to work at the Salvation Army Opportunity Shop Here I assisted by sorting bric-a-brac, and colour coding clothing for sale The staff at the Opportunity Shop were very appreciative of my help and it was very rewarding to know that my contribution was going to help further the fantastic work that the Salvation Army does for needy people in the community

Sarah Beer Year 9

Community Involvement

Friends for older people

As Year 12 students it is sometimes difficult to see the bigger picture To see beyond the terrifying TER and catastrophic CATs is often hard To endure this year, it helps if you can recognise that there is a life beyond the perfect 99.95 score We have been able to do this through our involvement in the Friends for Older People Program

Friends for Older People is a volunteer program that promotes and supports friendships between nursing home residents and members of the local community Initiated by the Federal Government, it aims to alleviate the boredom and loneliness of isolated people living in nursing homes What motivated us to join this program is that we wanted to help people in the community We were aware that people living in nursing homes do not always have regular contact with friends or relatives, and we felt we could make a difference to their lives We have been visiting an older lady on a weekly basis

for some time now She lives in a nursing home within walking distance from school, which is great as this allows us to visit her in our lunchtimes or spare periods We have been able to develop a wonderful friendship with her

Our involvement in this program is certainly fun-filled and extremely rewarding It is so interesting hearing about the lives of older people in our community - we can learn so much from them. The lady we visit has given us a unique perspective on life and friendships She has taught us to appreciate these more

As VCE students it is important that we don't become too introspective It is important that we take time out from our hectic schedules and make time for others It is amazing what you learn when you least expect it In giving to others there is always something that you receive in return

Victoria Kane & Becky Gilbertson Year 12

Community Involvement

Senior School Ozanam House Volunteer Program

I can honestly say that I didn't want to go to Ozanam House at first

I resisted temptation and went to school I met with my classmates and my tutor group teacher We were all dressed appropriately in jeans, jumper and doc look - not particularly flattering, although comfortable and acceptable

For those of you who don't know, Ozanam House is run by St. Vincent De Paul and is a hostel that caters largely for homeless males, providing them with the necessary things to get through life These necessities include food, shelter, beds and access to social workers, etc To run smoothly Ozanam House relies heavily on volunteers.

Volunteers must be 16 years and over, and therefore only students in Year 11 and above can participate in this programme at MLC Throughout the year Tutor Groups are called upon to help out up at at their evening meal program The 16th July was II L's night and I was one of the girls happy to give up their time

When we arrived at Ozanam we were all presented with a pure white apron, we prepared the tables, and then were asked to serve each person up a meal, cafeteria style We were encouraged to move around the tables and chat to the clients

Although this was a daunting thought at first, once we had a dish cloth in our hands and felt as though we had a role, it wasn't that bad

Each one of us has probably had our share of troubles and Ozanam House for these people is a place where they can be relaxed and happy Perhaps like home for us!

A range of characters came in that night for a meal One man explained to me that he needed a little more mashed potato because of his lack of teeth which he proceeded to show me, while another guy told me about all the movies he was going to see with his gold card this week! Each person made me realise how lucky I am for what I have, and how we as a country label others all too quickly The people who I met at Ozanam were nice, loving people who were just going through a rough time

Overall, I can say that despite the negative connections which I incorrectly made with Ozanam House, I loved the experience I had there and would gladly go again The atmosphere is positive and every worker is always going out of his or her way to make somebody, whether it be a volunteer or a client, happy

Kate Horner Year 11

Community Involvement

MILE Tutoring Program

A tiny hand darts timidly towards my palm Warm and tenacious, delicate fingers entwine themselves around mine, and suddenly the chill ebbs from the dank, shadowy hall The North Richmond Tenants Council Hall adopts a cosier, almost welcoming appearancebut perhaps it is just my perspective that has been transformed

On my first visit as a volunteer tutor participating in MLC's MYLE program, fragments of a recent article I had read about the highrise flats swam cruelly in my mind and annotated ugly despair with each vision my eyes set upon Balconies blocked off because too many people had leaped to suicide from them A park which sheltered a corpse so often that the children who played there had grown achingly casual when reporting the discovery of yet another "stiff in the park" to their families I'd read about bathrooms brimming with syringes, knife-fights and hoods, violenc e and murders

But the article had neglected to mention the gentle shuffle as loving parents shyly nudged their children towards us. The miniature six year-old hands with perfect, baby fingernails that stubbornly traced Reader lines, anxious to decipher the mysterious code of English And

so I, in my posh private school uniform, green pleats and cashmere scarf, stumbled upon this reality so far removed from my own with something like fear grown from stupid ignorance, and a vague, self-righteous sensation of doing something "good"

Twice weekly, a small group of Year 11 & 12 girls from MLC visit the North Richmond Public Housing Estate We set ourselves up in the Tenants Council Hall located at the bottom of highrise building Number 106 We provide a drop-in service for Primary School children living on the estate, who are of Non-English Speaking Background, who are having difficulty with their school work because of their cultural and language differences We give these children assistance with their reading, spelling, writing and other school related tasks They give us an hour of escape from VCE, beautiful smiles and cheeky giggles, and insight into a my riad of foreign cultures. Our offering seems so very paltry in comparison

Of course there are the odd challenges, such as Anna, who is super-intelligent, and delights in writing complex stories about her cat and illustrating every page, whilst five students wait impatiently behind her for our help Then there's Roberto, who's too cool for school by a million miles, reads his Paul Jennings story with perfect fluency,

but then can't recall a single word that he's read. One of my favourites is a little girl called Guilahmena who brings me grade four readers, but can't speak or understand English It took me forty-five minutes of pleading and cajoling to realise that she couldn't comprehend a single word that I'd uttered Last time I visited, Guilahmena could name her nose, eyes, mouth and ears, and I was ecstatic. I've certainly shed my initial fear

Often I go home smiling, but just a little depressed, because these people deserve so much more than they have, and there is nothing really that I can do about it But perhaps the MYLE program does more than I realise Sometimes I dare to hope that we are achieving what so many struggle to attain - an understanding, empathy, friendship and tolerance that extends beyond racial barriers

On our 'fridge at home there is a picture that Anna drew for me There is a tall girl smiling with yellow hair, and blue eyes The tall girl is holding hands with a little girl who has black hair and brown eyes, Both are smiling with big, pink lips Above the tall girl, there is a name: Claire, and the little girl is also named: Anna Below us is a single word"FRENDS"

Claire Finkelstein Year 12

The Formal snuck up on many VCE crazed Year 12 students this year. Gone were the three months of hysteria leading up to the great event - instead, many of us threw away any resemblance of a social life and concentrated on CATs

The frenzied hunt for the perfect Formal ensemble became a memory of Year 11, as most of us chose to beg borrow or steal anything even remotely resembling a dress The conversation within classrooms dulled from "I saw the most fantastic dress in Memphis- it was expensive but worth it I" to the more sedate, "I might just borrow my cousin's dress." Many girls had learnt their lesson from last year - no matter how much you intend to wear your 400 dollar designer creation after the event, within a year it is sure not to fit! More than one opted for the budget solution to balance out their spending over the two years

Attempting to be graceful was a major trial for those who opted for glamour Choosing fashion over function, many hobbled into the ballroom with shoes that didn't quite fit or dresses that just didn't sit right Last year's funeral tones of Black, Black and Black were banished, with bright colours dotted all over the room

The rainbow of colour was an indication that the night was taken much less seriously than the previous formal, with more people displaying their individuality of style The most noticed fashion accessory remained the partner - likely to be commented on even before the dress was glanced at

The cavernous Ballroom stretched out, littered with round white discs Finding the right table became a struggle - waiters seemed determined to get in the way as much as possible Once seated, the smarties scattered across the tables were munched on hungrily Teachers made beelines for tables they knew, smiling broadly as they remarked on, "How grownup everyone looks!"

Formats

The Year 12 Formal

The meal whirled by quickly, with most people eager to swarm onto the dance floor As the lights faded with the end of dessert, the tables were abandoned. All regard for appearances faded, with many girls pulling out the hairstyles that had been meticulously arranged by frazzled hairdressers earlier that day Any uncomfortable shoes were torn off, becoming a hand-held accessory

The end of the night drew near, but still lacked an essential element. It was only after pleaded requests to the DJ that the Spice Girls were played, capping off the "Formal Experience"

Abandoned corsages and crushed leaves were all that remained as most departed the Carlton Crest to keep celebrating into the early hours of the morning

Emily Barnes Year 12

Formats

What more can we say! It was a blast!

MLC Community Behind the scenes

Meet our gardeners

From left:

Narelle Alford

Olivia Gardener

Sarah Hilton

Robyn Menhenit

Absent:* Chris White

and maintenance staff

From left:

Trevor Lomax

Alan Parker

Brian Dalton

Louis Stavretis

Peter Pantou

Jonothan

Wilcock

Richard Chapman

Henry Piotrowski

Richard McGibbon

Jack Adams (BUTTS)

Lunchtime at MLC

Fun Times in Junior School

Farewell

Emily's Thoughts Melissa's Thoughts Laura's Thoughts

At one point or another every Year 12 must have expressed their wishes to be finished school and to have left MLC for the final time No more compulsory uniforms No more comparisons with the MET's new colour scheme No more rules, no more restrictions However, this freedom and newly gained independence will come at a price at the end of the year No more smiling, familiar faces in the corridors No more sense of superiority No more contact with most of the three hundred girls we've grown up with in the last few years

I know that I'll miss these things about MLC I'll miss the confidence I feel when I walk through Centenary building, the feeling of belonging The network of staff, students and friends that are always willing to listen, sympathise or celebrate

A third of our life- if not more- has been spent at MLC We've learnt that we can do anything we set our minds to, the value of independence and we've learnt to have faith in ourselves Whether or not we choose to acknowledge it, our time at MLC has changed us for the better

Emily Barnes

When I first arrived at MLC, only two years ago, I remember being overawed by the size of the school - all the different buildings, the gardens and everything else that makes MLC the school it is I remember my first impressions of the Boarding House, where I have lived for the past two years, and all the girls within it, and the wider school community; their similarities, their differences and in keeping with the theme of this year's 'Silver and Green' their 'multiness.' Now, as I leave MLC and venture beyond the school gates and Glenferrie Road, I take with me the experiences that MLC has provided, and am sure that the wisdom I have gained during these two years has best prepared me for the future a prospect which both excites and frightens me a little

As I leave this school, having lived enough memories to last me a life time, I am left feeling a little empty, but thankful for all MLC has given me and happily anticipating all that lies ahead

Melissa Wei

Beginning year 7 at MLC would have been one of the most interesting years I have had I remember the groups that girls had already divided up into before I had a chance to introduce myself to some one I must have been in a dream state, as everything that I had to take in and process, was placed in the in tray and took a very long while to even begin to approach the out tray

Year 12, well, what a year! It has certainly been a relief to realise that CATs aren't all that bad As I sit here on the top level of Centenary building, the sky is blue and it even looks like the temperature will reach past 15 °C! I am sitting up here typing this reflection as others buzz around me, adding the final touches to Silver and Green The year 12 formal, Toady, P's, legal age and that multitude of car alarms that went off during class and were announced in assembly, seems so far away but still remains so clear in one's mind The biggest and most important year has been the most memorable year and will prove to be the most humorous when reminiscing

Laura Fitzgerald