LVEl "D <
"The
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Julie Dillon
Julian Burden
Mr Notsis
Mrs Faye Johnson
Nicole Cornish
Margaret Howie
Anita Parakh
Nicole Smith
Fiona Symons
Martin Tan
Su Ni Wong
Sue Wood
For all their assistance during the year, their written contributions and the fabulous help with the typing!
Cover designed by Sue Bauer, Year 12
In they thunder, hundreds — no — thousands — no — millions millions of green and white girls all agiggle I stand aside, a little to the left, in the corner, although green and white still unsure, until, slowly but surely, I am swallowed by the capsicum crowd Emily Power, Year 11
MLC IS NOT A CAPITALIST ENTERPRISE
An interview with Mr David Loader.
The launching of the "Son et Lumiere" has been the latest of a number of major events and changes which have occurred over the past year of MLC Like many students at the school, I was rather uncertain as to the real reason behind the staging of "Son et Lumiere" I tended to look upon it with suspicion I believed it to be little more than a public relations exercise — typical of a school which appeared to be turning into a capitalist enterprise with less concern for the students' education than for a good public image
Yet after spending an hour hearing Mr Loader explain why MLC has added new buildings, introduced a new uniform, expanded administrations, launched "Son et Lumiere" and raised the fees, I now persuade myself that MLC is not trying to "grab our money" to the detriment of our education, and I hope that other students may feel the same Nevertheless, the principal encourages any sceptical students to question him about issues or uncertainties — he is happy to have a discussion session or talk to a question panel
Here is what Mr Loader said during our discussion
"The 'Son et Lumiere' is a play with a reason, a chance for mass participation, for a whole range of different things to happen, and it is a unifying experience I also think it is a chance for school pride There aren't many schools which actually have an array of buildings that go back so far I don't think it is a public relations exercise I think it is going to become one, in so far that it is going to cost us $60,000 to do it, and the Council said that everything has to be paid for by the tickets Hence the publicity The publicity is not geared to enhance MLC's public image It's really geared to ensure that we cover our $60,000 The 'Son et Lumiere' is not meant to detract from what we're doing in the classroom — in fact, it's meant to enhance it
I think the school involves basic work, but not just that It involves the growth of self confidence, of feelings of self worth, and the ability to communicate with other people It also involves the ability to do some research and to present oneself These are all basic elements of education, and if you can combine them in different ways — then you're really about education In my educational philosophy, it's a matter of providing counselling for students, so they will not be diverted from their purpose So we are spending a lot more time and money on the counselling of students through staff We've developed our Pastoral Care Programme, so you should spend a lot more time with your Tutor Groups and Careers Counsellors In providing such support for students, there's money involved, in terms of actual educational cost The variety of curriculum hasn't cost us anything because we're a large school Because we're large, we can offer a wide range of subjects
"The new buildings have cost us money but I wouldn't, for example, like to do without Centenary now At the time, it was a revolutionary building It is much more important than the PEC which wasn't planned to be as large as it is It was only planned to be half that size at the time The Kew Council got us all scared, as it was getting harder and harder to deal with, and we thought perhaps we should build the whole thing The Council doesn't want us, as it receives half the rates it would have had houses been built where we are The local residents, also, don't like the cars or the students, so we get some pressure from that area
"It's not as though it's a big outlay in terms of the long use it will have, but it is a big outlay, fullstop But then the present students have not had to pay for Wood Wing, Nevile or Cato There is no reason why each generation of students shouldn't continue to develop the school site It does mean that the fees have gone up
"Take the new uniform as another example We didn't make that to change our image The students weren't wearing their old uniform well, and were showing their dislike of it So we set out fo find a new uniform that the students would like We haven't forced a new uniform on the girls, but given them a choice
"It is the same with Phys.Ed Everyone should do Phys.Ed So if we believe in the benefits of sport, could we gain from it before in the old gymnasium and oval? No, we actually had to do something about it So if we can justify it in terms of education for students, we have to get it."
Mr Loader's philosophy on the changes which have occurred were strongly expressed to show that the school is genuinely working to provide what is believed to be the best for the education of all students
I raised another issue of concern with Mr Loader:
"Genevieve and I went to interview the maintenance staff, and saw the conditions under which they worked We were very concerned at how primitive they were, when it is so different up here in administration Has anything, or will anything, be done about it?
Mr Loader replied:
"That question highlights the question of why you keep on building We have a plan for a new centre for them at the end of the carpark When that happens I don't know, but it has certainly been sketched
"Conditions under which administration worked were previously very difficult and restrictive Now, with the expanding role of administration, it has been necessary to make changes in that area."
It is very encouraging to learn that our maintenance men have not been forgotten I'd like to leave you with a final word from Mr Loader:
"I don't apologise for trying to make the school better In doing so, I believe that we are very much within the tradition of the school We still have the excitement of 1882: Here is a school that can be the best! And we make it the best, by listening to the students."
Anna Ridgway.
PREFECTS 1988
"Democracy passes into Despotism" - Plato
Kate Axup, Joint Senior Prefect
Meaghan Davis, Joint Senior Prefect
Sue Bauer, Deputy Senior Prefect
Rebecca Adam
Fiona Barnett
Helen Bell
Lisa Benallack
Megan Blackburn
Genevieve Blanchett
Suzanne Cole
Iona Goodwin
Jenny Heathershaw
Peta Kennedy
Suzannah Leach
Mary-Lou Loughnan
Kristen Le Gassick
Meredith Lewis
Olivia Millard
Kate Origlasso
Kylie Rowe
Fleur Smith
Danielle Whitmore
Sue Wood
J U
Does a prefects' report entail a formal rundown of prefectorial events at MLC ? We think not For due to our brilliant communication system, we prefects, in our opinion, are neither formal nor boring
This year, the first prefect campaign was the interior decorating of the Year 12 Senior Centre Students arrived the first Friday of Term 1, armed with buckets, brushes, rollers and old clean clothes The first Friday entailed painting the rooms with a cream undercoat-very stylish-and the teamwork was splendid The second Friday enabled the students to express their creativity A range of interesting colours and patterns appeared on the walls, and the most popular design was the "splat" look Most of these masterpieces are now covered with graffiti However, we believe that the initial concept of this group activity was beneficial
The prefects began the Senior Prefects' Log Book This "bible" contains the "dos" and "don'ts', "shoulds" and "shouldn'ts" of being a prefect It will be passed from generation to generation of prefects We hope that the Senior prefects of years to come do not feel as we did, when we first began
In Term 2 we organised a lunch with the Grade 4s and 5s of Junior School We each supplied a plateful of something "partyish" Fairy bread, the top favorite, was demolished within seconds flat This was a most enjoyable occasion, although after the seventh game of Scarecrow Tiggy and the twentieth game of Fruit Salad, we became a little weary Whoever said that patience is a virtue?
After shaping up at this luncheon, we decided to hit bigger and better things A netball match was organized between us and a selection of Year 12 Trinity Grammar boys, who happened to take netball very seriously This was an interesting match, particularly since more boys were present, than girls Despite this inhibition, the prefects put up a fine display of physical exertion and strategic manoeuvres The match closed at 15-10 They were bigger, better, taller (and uglier) than us Yes, we lost
After this defeat, we were not disheartened in any way Oh yes-it takes more than a bunch of boys in skirts playing netball to get us down We proceeded to organize Litter Week Mrs McKenzie had heard through
reliable sources that the grounds were getting a little messy She consulted the prefects Our solution Litter Week, was aimed at making students more aware of keeping MLC tidy
Our next achievement involved Peta Kennedy, fellow student and prefect She was sent to compete in the World Student Games in Canada during the Term 2 holidays Being fools for the odd fund-raising affair, we decided to aid her financially for the Games
We donated the profits of the vending maching, for one week, to the "Peta FundRaising Appeal" The result was a cheque for $500
With the hectic hustle and bustle of Term 1 and 2 over, we're not about to throw in the towel Further ventures include a soccer match with Carey Another highlight will be the Bi-centenary luncheon to raise money for Sophie Boland and Kerryn Duff, who are participating in Bicentennial events
We all anticipate an action-packed, funfilled, exciting rest-of-the-year ahead of us, and there will be loads of fun for lots of students in all parts of MLC
Meaghan Davis
Authorised by Kate, Sue and the rest of the Mafia!
How To Save Your Sanity In VCE
Sanity in your VCE year can be very difficult to come by Many students find very early in the year that the smallest accident, mistake or mishap can rapidly become a major crisis By the time you reach this stage you will almost certainly be of the opinion that all is lost, but rest assured, you can survive Basically you have three options sorry, choices (option is not a pretty word to a VCE student, just as 'student' is not a pretty word to any person who isn't one)
Your first choice is to give your sanity a few days off In other words, give in now and save your sanity for later This method is preferred by many students who find that holding on to their sanity is fighting a losing battle Those students can be seen around the
school, usually occupied in doing something very strange, and it is best to avoid them during this time Some students can be seen 'liberating' reels of magnetic tape from their covers, putting them in their pockets and calling them 'Kenneth." Other students will simply roll around on the back lawn of Senior Centre in fits of helpless and slightly hysterical laughter It is best, if this student cannot be safely avoided, to lock her in a padded cell until she calms down enough to appreciate that no sane, reasoning person would call a cassette tape Kenneth Felix is obviously a far more appropriate name
The second choice is to destroy your eardrums as completely as possible This method involves normally sane students suddenly developing an uncontrollable desire to turn the volume control on the stereo up to maximum Many students find the resultant loud music very relaxing Perhaps it renders thinking, and therefore worrying, impossible, or perhaps it is a rebellion against authority Unfortunately, this phenomenon has never been scientifically tested, so the exact course is not known What is known however, is the method of dealing with a person in this condition: leave the country
The final choice is a little known but very efficient method of retaining your sanity A sacrificial burning of a chemistry prac can be enormously therapeutic to your average, budding pyromaniac, as long as it does not develop into the sacrificial burning of your chemistry teacher, which is generally perceived as slightly excessive
In short, your sanity is something which could be extremely useful to you during your final exams, but the only way to have it intact at the end of the year is to use it as little as possible now It must be exercised regularly, but only for short periods of time, so as not to wear it out too quickly, and please, see your doctor if lunacy persists
Linda Penington Year 12
101(more orless) Usesof the MLC Star
• Committing suicide in Maths
• Bargaining for your life on the Year 12's last day
• Being expelled (15 times for not wearing one)
• Adding incentive to hit high notes in choir
• Piercing ears
• Fashionable, funky jewellery
• Keeping your summer dress fashionable when your safety pin carks it
• Rejuvenating broken zippers
• Cleaning braces after lunch
• Cleaning nails
• Getting splinters out of body
• Supporting broken bras
• Fixing the 'Claytons' hem of the new uniform
• Adding extra holes to shoes and watches
• Pinning hair back
• Giving yourself a facial when taking off your jumper
• Popping 'rowing' blisters
• Proclaiming your love for all of nature to see
• Graffiting desks
• Blocking common room sinks
• Letting your favourite teachers' car-tyres down
• Rearranging the same teacher's car paintwork
• Stopping 'large' people from sitting on your skirt on the tram (a friendly point)
• Extending the date on your tram ticket
• Melting down to make bonus tokens for vending machines
• Picking locks
• Pinning up your sports skirt
• Fixing calculators
• Picking your nose
• Undoing vending machine screws
• Torture instrument to annoy Year 6's
• Sending SOS's to people
• Opening packet drinks when you've lost your straw
Who said we should abolish the star?
MRS KELLER
Head of Junior Secondary School
Mrs Keller was enthusiastic about the year in Junior Secondary School The two church services and the Year Eight camp have been particular highlights of the year
The year eight Church service introduced a new chaplain, Ms Sterner, who preached there The year six and seven church service was a Palm Sunday Service complete with a procession with palms from OLCD Special music by the year six, seven and eight choirs provided a "stereo" effect by singing in both the back and front of the church
The year eight camp was held for the sixth year at the Happy Valley Homestead in the Ovens Valley Mrs Keller particularly enjoyed "sharing the experience with the year eights." Mrs Keller thought the girls' responses to the camp were "fantastic" Her favourite response to the question," What did you gain from the camp?" was "friends, enemies and pimples."
The year seven girls all spent a day, over a two week period, in orientation visits to the Botanical Gardens Mrs Keller felt it was "an enjoyable two weeks" where the teachers and students got to know each other and settled down
The year sixes had two days of outings to Werribee Park, where they, too, got to known each other Mrs Keller said that the Meals on Wheels project with the year elevens is excellent and gives the younger girls a good opportunity to meet senior girls as well as older members of the community
The JSS SRC deals efficiently with the common complaints of the toilets and the water, as well as fundraising and casual clothes The project for this year, Mrs Keller hopes, is to be can collecting and cashing
The separate athletics and swimming sports, for the JSS have been a success They provide one area where girls can be involved and participate fully without undue pressure Mrs Keller sees this participation and involvement in all areas of the school as vital
"I would like to see as many girls as possible involved in as many things as possible Work should not be all consuming in this part of the school Girls should be happy about being here."
Martha Howard
MRS PREST Head of Middle School
The highlight of the Middle School year has been moving into the refurbished Nevile wing 'I think that coming into our lovely Nevile Wing has been the main thing I think everyone's really happy about that." Much consideration for the new area has been given by the students and SRC banners, posters and pot plants have been made or bought by the girls to decorate the walls Aside from the Nevile wing, the SRC has met regularly and raised money and been most effective in other matters "They've been most efficient, even being half size The new SRC won't come into effect until virtually term three" The year nines, elected last year, have carried the SRC through until elections could be held
Mrs Prest is impressed by the new uniform "I think the new summer uniform is lovely I think the girls are proud of it and wear it well I don't think we will have nearly as much strife with silly uniform infringements because girls feel comfortable with it and they really do look very neat."
The environment also concerns Mrs Prest "The amount of rubbish has been the one blot this year There are a terrific number of really good girls, but litter has been a problem" Allied with this concern for the environment is Mrs Prest's enthusiasm for the "Architects in schools" programme, which is soon to be started at MLC This programme is designed to give students an awareness of the environment around them, and give them an opportunity to plan and construct small scale architectural designs It is planned to be offered as a two-period elective "It really is a terrific scheme," Mrs Prest comments, "It links well with the Nevile building idea
Teachers' Twaddle
DR CASTLES: "Just pretend for the moment that I'm Steffi Graf."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "I buy the "Truth' because it has the best Form Guide."
MR SNELL: "Asexual reproduction is what you're going to do."
MRS MORGEN: "She should use her scarf to keep her knickers up."
MS PAGE: "She's a scatterbrain but don't quote me on that."
MRS FEIKEMA: "Kate, I wonder sometimes I thought you were basically intelligent."
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN
The Catering Course 1988
So! You think the catering course is the easy way out? Not a real course? Just a bludge?
Well let us tell you — it's not!
The Catering Course — this year undertaken by 24 students — has proved to be a year of mystery, intrigue, new adventures and delicious food We also learned a lot of relevant and very interesting theory including Economics, Maths, Food Science, Communication, and Hygiene This teaches and prepares us for a career in the hospitality industry — either as chefs or managers of fabulously expensive establishments!
MR BUCKINGHAM: "You can never beat me, I assure you!"
MRS ELTON BROWN: "You would look dreadful as a collective wind machine."
DR OTZEN: "Drag ideas, screaming, onto the page!"
MR UNDERWOOD: "Don't give me that dumb look, I can get it from home I don't need to come to school for it!"
MR BUCKINGHAM: "I don't want to introduce an unpleasant element — work!"
MR UNDERWOOD: "The best way to pass this exam is to cheat, the second best way is to study."
This year the catering girls have whipped up some delectable meals -from a 3 course menu for one, to a banquet for 150 School functions, where we cater for special events, are an important part of our curriculum Half the class acts as cooks, the other half as waitresses It's a great opportunity to experience catering from all angles
The course also gives us the chance to see professional caterers in action We have organised excursions to the Southern Cross Hotel, the Menzies at Rialto, the V-Line Catering Department and a number of reception centres
MRS ELTON BROWN: "I am a very determined lady sometimes!"
MR MARTIN: "You have to pretend I ironed my shirt."
MRS McPHERSON: "As we are in physics, the first thing we must do is draw a picture."
DR CASTLES: "You beauty!"
MRS ELTON BROWN: "A percentage to Madame."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "Fortunately I don't have a wide knowledge of slang"
MR BELL: "Why should pensions go to millionaire grannies sitting on their yachts?"
MR BUCKINGHAM: "A court can be convened in a gum tree, a hole in the ground, or a very posh court room."
MISS LUNN: "'Shufu' which means housewife — not to be confused with 'Shoofu', which is prostitute!!"
MR BELL: "If you're a Democrat, you believe innalogy I do know how to do that!"
MRS CHRISTIE: "And all those people who got high marks in the test, I suppose they got just about everything right."
MR MARTIN: "If we can't stitch you up one way, we'll do it another"
Alison Stevens
THE HIDDEN SCHOOL
ALL YOUEVER WANTED TOKNOW ABOUT MLC BUT WERE TOO AFRAID TOASK
This was a very tricky assignment as the teachers are a quiet bunch who cling tightly to their privacy so naturally they didn't want a student snooping around their domain Fay Johnson, Chief of staff, diplomatically arranged a time after school for me to look around
I felt like a Western gun-slinger as the yellow swinging-doors opened in front of me
The Western imagery ended there as inside lay a highly civilized room, furnished with all the necessary conveniences for stress-free living Tasteful works of art hung in a discreet, private corner providing a place for serene contemplation and calming of the soul To the left, a small kitchen had benches lined with that vital vessel — the coffee mug! Low-lying chairs crowded the room, offering their padding to any weary bottom that passed and tables bearing the coffee-ring stamp of approval found room for numerous magazines and books
But look! All's not well in Paradise as the noticeboards that line the walls lie heavy with grim reminders of the world outside And just around the corner awaits the 'Honeycomb of Horror' otherwise known as the pigeon holes which are invariably full of nasty work from even nastier students
Smaller, separate rooms lead off from the main seating area and these belong to specific teaching departments such as the English room, etc It is here that the teachers correct and discuss the various problems peculiar to their department And it is here that no student may ever venture Even I, with my press-card and assortment of beggings and pleadings, was denied access OK, so they're human and are entitled to a little privacy now and then, but what dark secrets could they possibly want to hide from us — the students who love and cherish them with all our hearts?! We shall never know
But one thing we do know now is how much fun we are missing out on in Staff Centre The place is a virtual heaven compared with the depraved depths of Senior Centre and the like Let it be known to all teachers that the students of MLC are jealous, very jealous and if we aint treated right, you just might find yourselves with a revolution on your hands So watch out!!!
Mrs Faye Johnson . . . Staff Centre
Editors storm Staff Centre
THETOWER
No-one really knows what goes on inside the MLC tower as it sits astride the whirling bustle of a community at work One wonders if it listens to the schoolgirls' tales, spun from wonder, curiosity and fear and lightly brushed with fact This is my sixth year at this school and I have never heard a wilder story than the one that claims Nellie Fitchett, on her day off, floats up to the tower with a bottle of champagne and trips the light fantastic with the rats and John Travolta on the stereo
Well, frankly I was getting fed up with this kind of hocus-pocus I wanted the truth! So on Monday May 16 1988 I decided to end all of these mindless rumours once and for all by doing what no man dared to do (at least for a while anyway) — go up the tower!!!
I had to go through the Boarding House to get to the entrance, and as I went curious faces peeped from every corner All asking the same question "Wh-Wh-Where are you going?" I could almost hear the drum roll as I whispered "The tower!!!" It was all so urgent and dramatic, I couldn't wait to get up there and see what it was really like
The entrance was a white door slyly placed off one of the boarders' main corridors It opened into a steep, narrow staircase leading up to a wide, high ceilinged box-room
This was the vertical annexe to the tower and was covered with colourful scrawls of grafitti bearing the names of adventurous boarders also, I assume, on a mission to rediscover the tower
An enormously long ladder stood in one corner of the room and it disappeared into a small opening in the roof My quest was nearing its end as each rung brought me closer to my goal At last! I crawled out of the hole in the floor to fully inspect the room before me
I must admit that I half-expected dead bodies and treasure chests to be lying around everywhere
All I found was a small room (4x4 m.) with rotting floorboards and not much else There was one dusty pile of junk in a corner, which looked promising but turned out only to be a few broken chairs and an empty box Don't get me wrong! The tower still commands an aura of mystery but now on a rather more human scale A yellowing newspaper from 1963 lay hidden beneath half a pair of boys' school pants, torn perhaps by an adventurous boarder on a mission of a different kind!
The views were spectacular, of course With a window on each wall, a birds'-eye view sees the school fold out in every direction, transforming what seems so large and confusing on ground level into more picturesque dimensions I noticed that the windows had received a fresh coat of paint while the rest of the room lay in neglect Further enquiry discovered that plans are being made for the tower's renovation and this lick of paint was just the beginning (Start getting worried if you hear it's going to become Mr Loader's new office because believe me he can see everything from up there!)
If you ever get a chance to go up to the tower TAKE IT!! Revamped or not, it's still the stuff legends are made of and hey! you never know, you could wind up dancing the night away with Nellie!!
Words and pictures by Genevieve Blanchett
MR LOADER'S
The Loader's residence is an interesting mixture of late 1950's and mid nineteenth century architectures The formal entrance hall has been restored to its former glory, with a stunning staircase that leads up to the next level of the house Mr Loader's study has a cosy, lived-in feel to it with a large wooden desk and book-lined walls I was not the only one who appreciated the quiet ambience as the two family cats, Oscar and Felix, strolled in and made themselves comfortable Felix had a little accident — he unfortunately mistook the rubbish bin for his kitty-litter box But Mr Loader being the level headed, modern man that he is, handled the crisis with the finesse of one who obviously knows his housework
Living on the school grounds is not as much fun as we would like to make out (even though you don't have to travel far in the mornings!) The Loader's garden is not only small and almost entirely concrete but also walled in by the boarder's residence This as you can imagine ruins the family's privacy and also gives the garden a 'concrete jungle' feel The Loader's residence is really as normal a household as you could hope to find
Mr Loader's Residence
Men at Work
Whilst rummaging through the educational busybox of MLC, we hit the Keno Jackpot Men .fighting for equality of grounds and buildings alike Have you ever looked at the wall and wondered, "Who fixed that crack?' Did you ever even notice that crack? No!
That crack could have split the whole Physical Education Center in half, and would you have noticed? No! Why? Because we have
THE MAINTENANCE MEN!
Seven men and their faithful tool kit, hammer their way in a race against time and red tape Will they make it? Will the set be ready?
Let's now take a trip up the proverbial maintenance ladder in search of their leader (in order to protect the privacy of our interviewees we have changed their names) Peter (yes this man sacrificed his pumpkins for MLC) is in charge, shouldering the silver and green burden of development and expansion
To ease his load there is Bill (remember these names have been disguised) who is in charge of the assembly hall If it's hard for you to enjoy your assemblies fully because your seat squeaks embarrassingly then he's the man to see Tom is the head gardener and his vast team consists of Pasquale and many others like Trevor the youngest in the family Unfortunately we didn't have time to meet the remaining three on our short visit
You may ask, 'What do the maintenance men really do?' They do everything! There are two main types, the outside contractors, electricians, plumbers etc who come in and do the big jobs such as the recently renovated 'Pink Palace' and 'Nevile.' And then there are the Handymen, the ones we've come to know and love, the ones who zip around the school in their little cream truck! These are the real maintenance men, they provide us with stages for school plays and sets for House Drama
Recently they added a door to one of labs in Nicholas and filled in a wall in Business School These men are vital to the survival of our school If this is true then why is it they feel like second class citizens? Why do these men feel this way? We decided to get to the bottom of it The conditions they work in are not the best They spend their lunch hour in a stark dismal coffee room which they inherited or were given when the Boarding House no longer needed it Everything in this room seems to have been handed down from some part of the school
They have old Boarding House cups, and their teatowels, coffee, tea and sugar are probably recycled from the Year 11 and 12 common rooms This is not even the worst of it! When being shown their toiletry facilities handed down from the old Boarding House cook — we found the toilet paper These men would be the only ones in the whole school who don't have a shortage of it
In fact, they say they have trouble finding the toilet through the maze made by box after box of the stuff No wonder there's none in Centenary!
Despite popular belief maintenance men are intellectually advanced Two of these men are currently studying at colleges after work and one has studied at university and obtained an Arts Degree Not only do teachers, but the students — who they're really working for — fail to comprehend the sheer necessity of the maintenance men Aren't you ashamed!
Their jobs aren't a total misery though, there are some highlights, like getting new uniforms At the moment they have a very heavy workload, most from the Boarding House and Music School From 7:45am to 4:30pm these men devote their lives to the upkeep of MLC They feel a common bond between the maintenance men of other schools and try to live or work by their creed
The impossible we do immediately but miracles take a bit longer Lizzie Douglas Dinusha Joseph Rebecca Pocock, Year 11
ON YOUR MARKS!
Sports Day '88
The annual House Athletic Sports is only one of the few occasions in the school year where everyone can get together in Houses and get into the spirit of things
This year, however, wasn't just another sports day It was THE "Bi-centennial Sports Day" and to get us into the mood of things, our marching was to none other than "Celebration of a Nation" and "Waltzing Matilda"
This year we also left the main grand stand behind and opted for the stands which were opposite Personally, I thought that this year was much better than last because we were all closer to the action and it was also easier to get onto the track for the events and the marching The only problem was that we had to walk right round to the other stadium to get to the toilet and kiosk The whole ground was decorated with colours of purple, blue, green, yellow and pink which really brought the whole stadium alive The sports day wasn't just another day off school and fun in the sun for all — it was a day where some were trying their personal best in their own event and where they tried to break old records and achieve new ones
Chants of "Ber-ry", "Ne-vile", "Ca-to", "Kro-me" and "Fit-chett" continued throughout the whole day and by the end of the Sports, there were quite a few sore throats The war cries were not only heard in the stands of supporters, but crept all the way to the area where the competitors sat and waited The spirit was everywhere
The winner of the aggregate cup this year was once again Berry, who took out the Middle and Senior school cups, the winners of the Junior Secondary School cup was Nevile, with Krome taking out proficiency
All the houses put on a great performance and congratulations to all the house captains who put in alot of effort to make it a great day for all of us to enjoy Carol Lew
Early morning patriots and heady House Captains join forces in streamer selection, banner erection and balloon blowing Gradually the pinks, yellows, purples, blues and greens of the houses swallow the stands in their vibrance
Later the other girls swarm into their seats, donning mismatched items of house colouring Enthusiasm, in some cases, needs to be violently dragged out of people, but most find throat-threatening pleasure in cheering, screaming and yelling (for their houses, of course!) War cries, do-or-die cries mix with refrains from the popular ditty "come hither, yonder frog" as the gentle MLC schoolgirl turns animal
We ask ourselves — which event is the most soul-searching? Which requires the gruelling, gut-wrenching determination known only to the super-athlete? Is it the hurdles? No! The high jump, the 100m sprint? NO! NO! Is it the 1500m 'marathon' run with its 4-lap course NO! NO! NO! NO! It's the Year 12 Novelty race Yes, intense preparation lies behind this seemingly spontaneous relay
Behind every stumble, laugh and helpless scream, underneath every pile of hideous clothing and house captains there is a reason, a fiendish plot designed to make every girl think that this race is so good, so daringly exciting that she will come back again next year, bringing with her all those who just couldn't make it this year
Has this plan worked? Is MLC in its entirety going to turn up to next year's athletics? Discover the answers to these questions and many more ( such as how many times is my House Captain going to bash me if i don't show up? ) at the 1989 Sports Day Be there, support your house; it's really more fun than you think it is
Genevieve Blanchett, Year 12
"DID SHE REALLY SAY THAT? DID HE REALLY MEAN IT?" —
MR BELL: "1 want you to grovel!"
MR ANDERSON: "It's a nice feeling when people listen to you."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "I'd rather go for a walk, myself, than listen to me!"
MR BUCKINGHAM: "We study trite cases because we believe students can only deal with trite issues."
MRS MYERS: "I think you'd better pack up seeing most of you have packed up."
MISS GARLICK: "You're all very anxious for people who think they know it all."
MR MARTIN: "I am not a chauvanist!"
MR BELL: "If I see another Range Rover in Fitzroy, I'll leave!"
MISS MACNALLY; "My ideal man has Mr Darcy's good looks and mannerisms Darth Vader's intelligence and humanity, and Vyvyan Bastard's humour and good looks."
DR CASTLES: "Be on the lookout for right angled triangles."
MISS LIEBERGREEN: "It's not legal to be late to class."
STUDENT — "Cool glasses Mr Ellis!"
MR ELLIS — "Yeah, shame about the body though!"
MS JOHNSTON: "Julia, you will always be able to capitalise on the fact that you look terribly innocent."
MRS FEIKEMA: "You're so stupid!"
MR MARTIN: "The only reason why you girls are at school is to learn impressive words so that you can have an intelligent conversation with your man."
DR CASTLES: "If I can fall back on Suzie Dreher metaphorically speaking, of
STUDENT: "May I please go to the toilet?"
MRS FEIKEMA: "Why? What for?"
DR CASTLES: "By the way, that was a joke"
MRS ELTON BROWN: "Some people don't take a big enough breath when they're allowed to You have to take it like someone's put a knife in your back "
MR BELL: "I subscribe to the Women's Weekly."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "Mr Martin and I don't go to dances together."
MRS JOHNSON: "I'm easy."
MRS LEACH: "I've got nothing to do so I need someone to help."
MR ANDERSON: "I'll mark it when I've got a hangover That'll give you a fright!"
DR CASTLES: "Just turn to page 20 and see how lovely surds are when you look at them."
MISS SHIPP: "Your head falling off would be weathering Your head rolling out the door would be erosion So when all your arms and legs get to the bottom of the stairs of level one, that will deposition "(Said on level two Centenary building )
MRS POLLET: "Life's too short to stuff a mushroom."
MISS GARLICK: "The Arabs invented the flush toilet."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "We should see an engagement ring as a deposit on a woman.!"
DR CASTLES: "Mrs Elton Brown won't want me I can't even sing in the shower."
MR SNELL: "It comes out of the cow's mouth when it burps."
MRS POLLET: "My son Slime and my daughter Hernia "
MISS MEHEGAN: "Oh, it's Tuesday Bloody bum!!"
MISS BAUMAN: ( About a graph ) "They look like the tits of an old cow." STUDENT: "But mine aren't that droopy."
DR CASTLES: "Read page 105 If you're an insomniac it will definitely put you to sleep."
MR BELL: "I'm not having Mr Loader walk by and see me doing the Charleston on the desk!"
Dr Otzen
DR OTZEN: "Pleasure is a serious business!"
MISS BAUMAN: "I couldn't spell 'fluctuate' so I put 'spasmodic' I could find that in the dictionary."
MR SNELL: ( One of his many stories! ) "The kitchen stove caught on fire Luckily my University notes were close by, so I put the folder on the top But don't worry, the notes are still OK!!"
MR BUCKINGHAM: "Why are you smiling? You're in school, you're in Legal Studies, you're not allowed to look forward to anything."
MR ANDERSON: "Life's like that — it moves on Otherwise, there'd be no history."
MR MARTIN: "There are no formulas here If you want a formula, go to Chemistry and learn how to make a bad smell."
DR CASTLES: "This is cool, chicks!"
MR CLAUSEN: "I don't see why a girl should be deprived of the sight of a nude male body."
MR BUCKINGHAM: "Clearly, you think I'm so great."
MRS ELTON BROWN: "1,2,3, 1,2,3 spit."
MR ANDERSON: "At least pretend to be listening!"
MR MCGRATH: I haven't had much experience with girls your age."
BUSINESS AS USUAL!
MLC Business Course
When I spoke to some of the girls doing the Business course about the good points and bad points of the course, their replies invariably began with a bad point, and that was the misconceptions of girls doing the General course It seems that many girls see the Business school girls as being of lesser intelligence, they don't get any homework, they will all end up as secretaries and receptionists, and they spend a great deal of their time typing However, I have been informed that this is not true at all They are just as intelligent as their peers, they do receive homework, and many have far wider career aspirations
One girl was quick to point out that girls with skills in business subjects are well sought after in the workforce She added that the experience and skills she has learnt will be very beneficial to her when she enters the business world, and as it is expanding all the time the prospect of finding immediate employment is almost garanteed Another girl explained that the course does not involve typing only but encompasses a range of interesting and demanding subjects such as Accounting, Shorthand, Business Administration, Keyboarding, Business Law, Economics, Audio Transcription, and Oral Business Communications
Obviously, the differences in subjects and career aspirations are the only differences and many of the misconceptions are completely wrong, for the Business course is excellent and a great way to obtain the skills to enter the business world
Kathy Cassin
JOCULAR JARGON
BOOTING UP: Kicking someone upstairs
SAVING: For a rainy day?
DISK DRIVE: Front wheel or four-wheel?
LOADING: Depends on union co-operation
UNDERSCORE: The scorekeeper can't count
PRINT MASTER: Undoubtedly Julian!
FORMAT: For dirty feet
WRAP AROUND: One way of putting on a sari
EASYWRITER: Is that the film with Dustin Hoffman?
SHELL DOCUMENT: Something you put together at the seaside
MAIL MERGE: No comment!
DOS: Dear old school?
HEADER AND FOOTER: Scores a goal in soccer
GLOBAL SEARCH: An astronaut's mission
SUPERSCRIPT: Terrific stuff!
SUB-SCRIPT: Fail!
SPREADSHEET: Make the bed!
CURSOR: What you do to the teacher (cursim?)
VDU: Not contagious
HARD COPY: Hard act to follow
BUSINESS STUDIES STAFF
Tea for two with Ms Page
Ms Page feels her role in MLC is to "support the students in all aspects of their school life, and to encourage them to develop themselves to their full potential sounds a bit cliched doesn't it!" she added with a smile She wants to help the students see that life is worth living and to encourage them to have a go in life If things go wrong, she will be there to help the students pick up the pieces, and have another go
Ms Page's ultimate concern is for "kids to be free and whole and happy" While she has her own values and beliefs as to which paths taken in life are more likely to lead to fulfillment and enlightenment, she does not see herself as "being prescriptive or thinking in black and white."
"For me Christianity has been a liberating experience and I believe it would be for others if properly understood I have seen people who consider themselves Christians, and 1don't see them as having the wholeness Jesus exemplified, offered and spoke about Whereas I see others who do not call themselves Christians who do have that wholeness Jesus spoke of."
Wanting students to be whole is Ms Page's first aim She feels that if this happens via Christianity "that's great" but it is not her intention to convert all the students she meets She wants people to think about life and death, and to be whole
"I do not see religion as being a separate compartment divorced from the rest of life; everything has a spiritual edge to it That's why I like meeting people, going to plays and films, and reading serious fiction, because it is by tasting the whole of life that we develop ourselves and hence our spirituality That's why I want to meet girls and talk with them about anything they want
We can learn together about ourselves and life, and hence grow."
Ms Page's final words were,
"A cup of tea is always on the boil: kids are welcome anytime they want to have a chat."
Helen Mentha
'Sterner' Stuff
This year we welcomed Rev Sterner to MLC as one of our two chaplains
Rev Sterner grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania until 1964 when she finished high school She spent the next year in Australia as a Rotary Exchange Student, living in Williamstown and attending Williamstown High School
Then, after one year of university in Dallas, Texas, Rev Sterner married an Australian and came out to live permanently in Australia in 1966, twenty two years ago
She taught maths at Bentleigh High, then had two sons and a daughter, did a BA parttime at Monash University, majored in Economics ( 1970-1978 ) and then completed a Diploma in Education at Latrobe University ( 1979-1980) part-time
She made a commitment to Christ and did her Bachelor of Theology ( 1982-1986 ) In 1984 she applied for the ministry in the Uniting church, was accepted and was ordained last year
Her appointment at MLC is her first in this capacity and although she was appointed here by the Church, she feels this is really what God wants her to do, and "it didn't just happen"
Rev Sterner thought she would like working at MLC but she enjoys it more than she expected to, and she finds the students and staff "very friendly, helpful and lovable" She finds her role in MLC "stimulating and demanding" and takes assemblies in all four schools When asked whether she found it satisfying being at MLC, "very" was the reply Although she finds the variety of all four schools exhausting, she loves it
You do not get talk of hell, fire and brimstone from Rev Sterner Rather, she has made one message very clear in less than one semester It is a very simple message, one of only three words, but one she considers to be the most important to get across to the staff and students of MLC It is: " GOD LOVES YOU " More particularly, she believes the love of God is expressed in Christ who came down to earth, lived, died and was resurrected She also sees the love of God expressed around her in various ways, often through people
Rev Sterner certainly does not live up to her name "Sterner" She is a very warm and caring person, and she is very easy to talk to MLC is fortunate to have her as chaplain, and this will become more and more obvious in the future
Helen Mentha, Year 11
Rev. Page (left) Rev. Sterner (right)
"So What IsC.F. ?"
The Christian Fellowship used to be another part of the hidden M.L.C It was not until recently that the group became more widely recognized, and hopefully things will continue this way
Unlike many other school groups, the Christian Fellowship is totally run by students; we plan, organise, and run weekly meetings and any special activities This unusual method has proved to make open discussions and the feeling of freedom more dominant in each meeting
A lot of people feel that a Christian group would have little relevance to anyone, especially themselves But one thing we stress is the practicality of everything we do.It's a challenging aim which we have set ourselves, but we want people to see that Christians are human We're not a bunch of weirdos If nothing else, I would like people to remember that Christians aren't necessarily the ones wearing tweed coats, western shirts and dark flares — not to mention the thick rimmed glasses We're people just like everyone else, except unlike some we have a reason to live, and a means to make something of our lives
KATHY WILKIE
R.E. Camp
The first leadership footprints
This year there was a Leadership camp organised by the Religious Education Department for the students of MLC and Trinity Grammar It was held on the weekend beginning Friday the 13th of May (unlucky for some!)
The camp focused on all aspects of leadership There were twenty MLC girls from Years 10 to 12 and eighteen boys from Years 9 to 12 Ms Page thought the camp was "fantastic" and she talked enthusiastically about its success
One of the first things they did was elect a leadership committee The committee made decisions like what time was bedtime and how this rule would be enforced The committee met in a "fish bowl" where everybody else could see and hear them The people watching offered advice to particular committee members on their communication with the other students Then the students experienced the politics of group dynamics through lobbying Simulation games were played to strengthen team work There was a concert one night in which everyone had to take part The compulsory participation was a policy made by the committee of students
Ms Page had noted with interest the development in the relationships between the boys and girls On the Friday some of the girls were very "boy crazy" and some of the boys showed off with their ghettoblasters and heavy metal music By Saturday they were much more natural and relaxed together By Saturday night they were all singing Beatles songs around the piano They played tennis and football, danced Twisted and generally had a great time
The girls had an MLC-only session in which they talked about the religious education programme at MLC, and what could be improved or changed As they discussed this and student involvement in the RE programme, the idea of a student leadership committee within the school was formed The committee, which will be set up in the near future, will be called Footprints
This name was chosen by the girls because they felt that they were the "stepping stones" of issues around them and that they were "stepping into the future both at MLC and outside MLC"
The committee will organise things like dances, activities, guest speakers and chapels
The camp was such a success that more are being planned
By Helen Mentha
Just one of the girls
There are a number of deaf people at MLC now The school has the facilities and the staff to help these people make the most of their education But just what is it like being deaf?
Four of us spoke to Rebecca Adams, Year 12, and asked her to tell us a bit about herself
Rebecca basically relies on sign language to communicate, although , with time and patience, you can get the message across by lip reading, but it does require concentration
That is why she has people to take notes for her, or to interpret her classes.Otherwise she would get very behind
We started out with a few familiar things, like TV and the telephone-both very popular items in the house
Deaf people have special TV's with supertext to interpret the dialogue However, not all programmes are able to be interpreted The television stations choose which ones have supertext-usually the ones that are pre-recorded This means that they do not have dialogue for news and current affairs programmes Rebecca seemed quite happy that this was the case — certainly the news is depressing, and there are always the newspapers Some programmes that Rebecca's family (her whole family is deaf) do receive are Neighbours, Richmond Hill, Home and Away and Sale of the Century We also asked Rebecca how she copes with the telephone She told us that, like the TV, she has a machine that interprets the electronic signals, and writes out her 'phone messages
At school, Rebecca has either a 'notetaker' or a person who interprets the class for her in sign language She does English, Maths, Biology, Legal Studies and Home Economics After school, she wants to go to Melbourne University, and she hopes to get a government grant for an interpreter there
Her brother who is at university doing Psychology (BA), has an interpreter but only for two hours a week
This is not enough for him to get the best out of his classes, because he really needs to know all that is being said, and a 'note taker' cannot write everything down that is being said An interpreter can sign all that is said, and that is very useful He is planning to go to a university in America that is specifically for deaf people
Rebecca is also one of our prefects this year We asked her how she liked being a prefect Her immediate response was that it was a lot of work!!! She then said that she doesn't like telling people off, and she expressed her dislike for tram duty I must say, I don't envy her job!! Our final question was "Who are you going to take to the dance?" Then Janine got out her photos of her boyfriend, and the conversation sort of went on from there
The five people involved in the conversation were: Rebecca Adams, Janine Swan, Alison Moody, Alison Baker and Emma Watt It was a shame that the bell went — we could have gone on for ages
ANTIGONE: 1988 School Play
"What's Anty-Goan?" was the general response when the posters advertising the 1988 School Play •Antigone', went up around the school
In late 1987, Sue Clinch and Kris Le Gassick held auditions to cast the play after eventually deciding on Sophocles' Greek tragedy, Antigone
Rehearsals began six weeks later in the last week of the Christmas holidays The Greek chorus (of which I was a member) attended several chorus workshops during the first four days of rehearsals, where Kris and Sue helped to develop the surrealistic element they wanted the chorus to have
Kris and Sue had decided on a highly stylised production, which involved the chorus portraying different images, such as an 'Eagle' in one scene and a 'Temple' in another
Sophocles' 'Antigone" is hardly the obvious choice for a school production First performed in Athens around 441 B.C , 'Antigone" is a very intricate and complicated piece of theatre The play focuses primarily on the moral dilemma which occurs between the central characters — Antigone, and the King of Thebes, Creon
The play was run over three consecutive nights beginning on March 17 Preparations began in late 1987 with auditions being conducted for years 7-12 in an effort to find the best possible cast Out of the 100 or so budding actresses, a cast of 27 was finally selected Rehearsals began in the week prior to the commencement of the 1988 school year and continued up until opening night
I spoke to producer, Kris Le Gassick in an attempt to find out about her feelings and role as producer (Unfortunately, the Director — Sue Clinch was unable to participate in the interview due to illness.)
Answers were edited with permission NICOLE: How did you choose the play "Antigone'?
KRIS:We read and read so many plays until we came to a choice between two plays
"This old man came rolling home." and 'Antigone" We weighed up the good and bad parts of both plays, asking ourselves questions such as: 'Could the students play the parts?' 'Would it be easy to stage/ perform?' etc We decided that overall, Antigone would be the best choice
Although the plays' theme is a tragic one, acting it out was an inspiring experience The stylised performance of the chorus provided a challenge, as we were on stage for the entire duration of the play (The chorus provides the link between the actors and the audience.)
Our final rehearsals took place on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the opening night of Thursday 17th March It was a gruelling performance, and for two and a half hours the chorus had to maintain its unearthly character
On Friday and Saturday nights we also performed to full houses On all three nights the high standard of acting was evident; the simple costumes and minimalist set directed the audiences' focus to the acting
Despite the enormous amount of work, we all enjoyed putting on the play and hope the audience enjoyed the end result
Chloe McLean
NICOLE: How was the cast selected?
KRIS: Auditions were held at the end of the year We did script readings and improvisations Basically, the cast was chosen by seeing if people had qualities within which were similar to the character and whether they could act!! It was actually quite hard, especially if they could act yet weren't suited to any of the characters We wanted people to have qualities like the characters so that they could identify with them and actually feel what their characters felt
NICOLE: What was the play about?
KRIS: It was a play that could be taken from many angles We saw it as a conflict between two characters; a conflict that brought up many important moralistic issues Because the language was difficult, we had to try and convey our interpretation through body language, voice and symbolization We wanted to convey many messages, for instance; the power between Creon and Antigone, Antigone's pride and strength, Ismene's conflict, and Haemon's rashness
NICOLE: How did the idea of the chorus come about?
KRIS: The chorus is part of the original play They are supposed to represent people of the city and reflect their ideas We decided that we wanted to do something interesting with the chorus -bring them to life through movement and vocal work We wanted to create something visually interesting to contrast with the long speeches of the other characters
NICOLE: Were there any humorous moments in the play?
KRIS: There were many humorous moments
One that I shall always remember was an event which happened close to the performance I had given the chorus a situation and left them in a room by themselves to act it out They were at a tea party and they were supposed to be people with strange ideas I remember walking into the room to check on them and they wouldn't let me out again!!!!!
They kept repeating "You're not allowed to leave the party", and "Eat me I'm a tart" in very weird voices
I escaped through the back door, and they chased me around Centenary building I was terrified! They were all over me and they kept chanting I finally broke free — it was actually very frightening I thought, 'God, what have I done'?' Looking back I can only laugh The cast also enjoyed 'weird' dancing to George Michael and Terence Trent D'arby That was humorous
The play was very successful Its success can be attributed to the hard work of all those involved, particularly director Sue Clinch and producer Kris Le Gassick
Nicole Cornish Year 12
ON THE WINGS OF INSPIRATION
An interview with our Writer in Residence, Carmel Bird
During the last six weeks of term two, MLC was fortunate to have the Australian author, Carmel Bird, as our Writer in Residence
Carmel had always been interested in writing creative pieces When she was a little girl, she always used to write stories, plays and poems In particular, she wrote plays inspired by the literature of Lewis Carroll, Charles Dickens and writers of that nature She liked taking their characters and making dialogues from their work Then she would get friends to come and act out the plays with her, and "we would force people to come and watch."
Carmel loved English at school, and she loved writing essays and creative work In her HSC year, she won the short story competition in her school magazine at Launceston High School Then she went to university where she studied English, French and Psychology At the same time she did a lot of acting, so she did not do a great deal of creative writing Carmel did teacher training at the end of her BA, and then she came over to Victoria to teach English and French at PLC in Burwood
She travelled overseas to the United States of America, which was "very exciting" and then went to England While Carmel was in England she wrote a novel but "when I finished it, I destroyed it because it wasn't any good; I actually burnt it It seemed to be an important thing to do and I don't regret it at all." Next, she travelled to France and studied French, and after that she travelled to Spain where she became interested in Spanish
When Carmel returned to teaching at PLC she started writing more She entered a short story competition run by The Sun, and won a prize that year, and another the next year, when she entered again The stories came to the attention of an editor at Macmillan, who contacted Carmel to employ her to write some short stories for a teenage series At the same time as the Macmillan book was being published, she got married and had a daughter She started teaching fiction writing for the first time at the Council of Adult Education
"I had got together a collection of short stories and I did a funny thing then Instead of taking them to a publisher, I got all excited and said 'I want this to be a book straight away!' I went to a friend who had a printing press in his garden shed He worked out all of the details and we produced a little volume called Births, Deaths and Marriages I had one thousand copies published It was a kind of crack-pot thing to do but I don't regret having done it."
After publishing Births, Deaths and Marriages, Carmel became interested in reading her work in puplic and organising public readings for other authors As she read more aloud she wrote more, because she needed more material to read
Carmel was invited to teach fiction writing all around Victoria While her students wrote, she had time to do some writing herself " I wrote a thing based on a memory I had of stealing a daffodil as a child It was a teacher's daffodil growing in a pot and I stole it Having stolen it, I didn't know what to do with it, so I ate it." That scene became the beginning of the novel Cherry Ripe-even though it is not the first scene in the novel The novel took two years to write and Carmel published it herself, this time using a big professional printer Cherry Ripe appeared in 1985
Carmel continued writing short stories and having them published in various places, and "started to be reviewed where it was important to be reviewed." At the end of 1986 she had a collection of short stories ready for publication, and this time she decided to to be "completely normal and professional "and went to a puplisher She submitted the collection of stories The Woodpecker Toy Fact and Other Stories, to McPhee Gribble and they accepted them for publication
Hillary McPhee, from McPhee Gribble, took The Woodpecker Toy Fact and Other Stories, as well as many other McPhee Gribble books, to the Book Fair at Frankfurt, where Australian books are shown to foreign publishers An American publisher, called New Directions and who are a very serious literary publisher, decided they would publish a collection of Carmel's stories The book, called Woodpecker Point, used some stories from The Woodpecker Toy Fact and Other Stories, and some from Births, Deaths and Marriages
Shortly after the publication of The Woodpecker Toy Fact and Other Stories in July, 1987, the English staff at MLC invited Carmel to visit MLC as our Writer in Residence
The first day Carmel was here, she actually wrote the first draft of a short story, because girls did not know that she was there then and the English staff had not organised when she was to visit their classes
" I became acclimatized to the room by putting up pictures and Dr Otzen took me down to the bookroom and I got a school diary and pencils and things like a new girl."
Carmel went to visit the English classes of most of the Year Twelve and Year Eleven English teachers She also had quite a full program of girls coming to visit her in the library to discuss their work and her work
"I have seen some wonderful work from many of the girls and I've had many insights in to the way they go about their creative work I think I've been able to make some suggestions that have given them some new insights and new directions in their work " I must say that I found the girls very welcoming, friendly, confident, interesting and interested, and that the new MLC uniform looks terrific."
As well as writing the first draft of a story on the first day she wrote a book review, at MLC, and a little bit of 'The Blue Bird Cafe', the novel Carmel is working on at the moment
At the end of June, 1988, Carmel Bird's book, 'Dear Writer', comes out 'Dear Writer' is a book about fiction writing It is called 'Dear Writer' because it is set out as a collection of twenty one stories from an experienced writer to get on with the job; it is a series of letters saying 'Dear Writer, do this, do that.'
Carmel plans to have 'The Blue Bird Cafe' manuscript finished by the end of 1988 As she writes the novel, she finds that she still writes short stories so there will be another collection of short stories ready soon After she has finished 'The Blue Bird Cafe', she has another novel planned
How does Carmel go about her work?
"I have a big notebook in which I write first drafts by hand with fountain pen I then work at a small electric typewriter on a second draft I read through the second draft aloud, making marks and comments and changes When I've finished mucking around with the second draft, then I'll do a third draft Usually the third draft is all I need, but sometimes more are necessary I write by hand at night and then I work on the typewriter the next day, usually between ten in the morning and three in the afternoon."
Carmel provided the students with inspiration and encouragement in their creative writing We will miss her, but we hope she will come back to visit MLC often The Writer in Residence program with Carmel Bird was a marvellous success and we hope it will not be too long before another Writer in Residence program is organized
Helen Mentha, IIP
HONOUR CERTIFICATE DAY
The upholstered rows are overwhelmed by all of year ten Bodies shift restlessly and there's a constant hum of conversation From somewhere comes a little titter as Mrs Lading rolls towards the microphone in her dignified way The guest speaker is led away and sighs of relief are heard followed by giggles of embarrassment
"Silence please, girls," even with the microphone, Mrs Lading's voice is as soft as her appearance, and for the duration of the notices no one really pays much attention
Then the subject of exams is raised Diaries are reached for and numerous queries shouted down from the back rows Dates are announced for various end of year activities Back for reports, exam results, selling and buying books, handing in subject confirmation forms and the final assembly
Then in a quiet, uneventful voice, Mrs Lading mentions the honour certificates list is about to be read For just a second there's silence and then everyone starts talking again; "You'll get one" "There's no way" "Bet you get heaps" "Bet I know who gets the most" "I don't want to hear this" And then they're read out First, there are those who achieved one certificate Hopes were dashed as possession of one certificate prevents you from gaining more Two, three and four certificates go by with fewer names being read Breaths are held and seats sunk into Then its over Five, six and seven are read out, no one got eight but one person received nine while another got an unbelievable ten The battle results have been announced but the fight has just begun Recess arrives and "so what did you get yours for?" "How many?" "I can't believe I got one for " "I don't believe she got one for " "But she doesn't even do that subject!"
Eventually, the whole issue becomes insignificant compared to looming exams and students attempt to find more efficient study routines The only reminder of the days events will be the speech night "parade" after which everyone has the holidays to nurse wounded egos or swollen heads, and prepare for the next year as year elevens, when it will all begin again
Kate Gibson, Year 11
SENIOR SCHOOL HOUSE
MUSIC COMPETITION
During the latter half of the Senior School House Music Choral Competition, I sat next to a girl who threw out regular complaints about how boring the event was It is no exaggeration to say that I was astounded by this attitude, for not only were the variety items entertaining, but so also was the whole competition In quality, the excellent musical tradition established in past years by the Senior School was fully maintained, and the competition itself was by no means boring Krome House won the Aggregate Cup, after coming first in Massed Singing, Variety Item and in general proficiency Cato won the Ensemble Item and Berry, the Instrumental Item
All House Music Captains deserve a big "thank-you" for all the work they put in to make the competition a great success; also thank you to those participants who worked very hard to maintain the high standard of music
Anna Ridgway,
Year 12
THE YEAR
YEAR 11 COMMITTEE
It sounds fairly serious, doesn't it — 'Year 11 Committee', and for most of us elected as representatives, the first meeting was a fairly 'sweaty hand' experience What were we in for? None of us really knew We all walked in the door of Centenary 3.4 the first Friday a little hazy minded, were handed a sheet officially named 'agenda' and crawled under tables to finally reach one of the 21 seats in the U-shaped meeting arrangement Our faces mirrored apprehension
After the first two weeks, or phase one, we had no problem handling what we had to face — the presentation of our badges, the honour of shaking Mr Loader's hand, the permission to 'control' one full assembly, the invitation to be representatives at the Church Service and to join Mrs McKenzie for morning tea!
Then arrived phase two, or shall I call it 'request time' This was when delegates had to arrive at meetings and embarrassingly state the qualms of their tutor groups These included requests for a microwave, a hot chip machine, ceiling fans, one less day of school and more holidays
Since then we have got down to some serious business though Around the school we have kept toilets fully equipped, placed a drain strainer in the sink of the common room for those troublesome noodles, tests have been regulated, bike-racks have been installed near the tuckshop, Common Room supplies and duties have been maintained, and the list goes on
This semester, the Committee could be considered the 'quiet achievers' of the Senior School with the help of Mrs Cribbes, our co-ordinator Hopefully, next semester, things will continue to happen!
Tannia Mattei, Year 11
LAST DAY
SPLASH! Dull, grey, sloppy porridge Sliding down newly cleaned blazers Shriek Anger Laughs Scream Splash! More porridge Smell and sight awful Run faster and faster away Feeling of cold, disgusting, gliding slosh See beings dressed in bad taste Must escape, stop running, need to find refuge from enemies Fear, hate, anger Visualize ammunition KERPLUTT!! Smash of water bomb on ground staining dull, grey driveway Coming Hide Must escape from attackers Green person running to safety White foam dripping from hair Drop, drop Cold, wet water drenching dress Loud cries of terror, anguish Must stay motionless Bodies run in opposite direction Slipping and falling over from early morning celebrations Laughs Shrieks of delight Unnecessary words distributed Relief Must leave Must escape to safer place Away Safe Building ahead Legs advance steadily Must beware Reach for handle Locked Disappointment Impatience Not safe Feel of balloon hitting back Water falling down body Scream, rage Lumps of porridge sliding down cold skin Yuk! Creaking sound, voice heard Turn and walk into building Shut door, lock latch Respond to voice Heart-beat eventually restored Gaze through window Relief, safe, secure, away Vanessa Griffin, Year 11
THAT WAS
1987 Senior School Speech Night
For many Senior School students, the Senior School Speech Night is a spectacular end to the year and the 1987 Speech Night was no exception It was held on Wednesday the 28th of October at Dallas Brooks Hall and was a great success
The Orchestra, Concert Choir, and Senior Madrigal Group performed brilliantly and their music was well received by everyone The massed singing was also wonderful and the addresses made by Mr Retford (Chairman of the College Council), the Senior Prefects,the Reverand Ian Higgins, Mrs McKenzie (Head of Senior School), and Mr Loader (School Principal) interspersed between the musical items were very interesting
Naturally, the hightlight for the Year 12 students was the 'Year 12 Own Choice Song' which was sung with so much feeling, there was hardly a dry eye in the hall The presentation of the prizes was a major climax to the evening where many girls were rewarded for their Academic Excellence
Overall, the night was fantastic however this would not have been achieved without the dedication from staff, students, and all the other people involved Special thanks must be paid to Mrs Elton-Brown for her wonderful organisation and comittment Eric the Half-a-Bee
Staffin they come
NEW TEACHING STAFF 1988
Mrs Julia Buzzer (Home Economics)
Rev Alana Sterner (Chaplain)
Miss Louise Asher (Maths)
Miss Pam Garlick (English)
Rev Marita Munroe (Part-time Religious Studies)
Ms Margaret Parnaby (English)
Dr Jeff Castles (Maths)
Mr Bill Anderson (History)
Miss Ann Moss (Latin, English)
Mrs Margaret Ward (Junior School Curriculum Co-ordinator)
Ms Julie Redward (Art)
Miss Lisette Williams (OLCD)
Mr Matthew Clausen (OLCD)
Mrs Judith Grimmer (Special Education)
Mrs Jenny McPherson (Part-time Mathematics)
Mr David McGrath (Economics)
Miss Jackie Liebergreen (Part-time Religious Studies)
Dr Lyn McCredden (Part-time Religious Studies)
Mrs Marcell Drummond (Part-time Violin Tutor)
Mrs Tina Bakopanos (Part-time Greek Teacher)
Miss Carol Smith (Part-time Japanese Teacher)
Mr Mark Savage (Director of Art)
Ms Margot Gray (Art)
Mrs Gabriella Omizzolo (Italian Teacher, Junior School)
Mrs Anne Barton (Special Education)
Miss Lina Sculac (PE)
Mrs Janine Goyder (Special Education)
CHESS CHAMPIONS
So far, 1988 has seen MLC maintain its position as the leading girls'school for chess, winning four titles in VJGCL events The main strenght of the club this year is its youthfulness, with our oldest player in Year 11
This year's inaugural club championship is almost completed with its two top players, Cathy Collins and Alison Barton fighting it right down to the wire Third place will depend on the result of a last round game between Elizabeth Collins and Amaruka Hagari, who is amazingly strong for a Year 7
The VCA interschool competition has commenced, and once again, MLC is the only school to contest the Camberwell zone Last year we won ahead of Camberwell and Trinity — a hard act to follow
During the July holidays, many MLC players will contest the State Junior Championships and later this year comes the Victorian Womens' Championship which Cathy Collins won last year
Coaching at MLC has obviously not harmed my career as I have been selected to play for Australia in the Chess Olympiad in Greece in November Hopefully before long some MLC students will find themselves representing their country too, a goal which is within the reach of some of our very talented players Guy West
MATERNITY LEAVE
Ms Gabrielle Beggs (Maths, Chemistry)
Ms Claudia Dittloff (German)
Ms Barbara Brook (Maths, General Science,)
Mrs Maria Gabbe (Chemistry, General Science)
RESIGNATIONS AT THE END OF MATERNITY LEAVE
Mrs Linda Latimer (Biology)
Mrs Helen McDonald (English)
Miss Angie Robertson (Music)
Mrs Prue Southern (English and Geography, JSS)
YEAR 8 CAMP
The Year 8 camp was absolutely fantastic for another year in a row The bus trip was pretty boring Everyone now knows the words to both of Rick Astley's first two No 1 hits
At the camp we were given rooms which were gorgeous They looked almost brand new but they were about 8 years old The first night our grade camped out It was awful but great fun
We learnt skills for survival and safety
There were obstacle courses and an activity hut
The courses were to test our ability, quick thinking, group co-operation and creativity
Each class had a chance to perform entertainment for another class We performed such acts as Rocky Horror, Brady Bunch, Blues Brothers and other short skits
Overall, the camp was very enjoyable for everyone except 8G who got rained on when they camped out Natasha Otzen
Social Service Committee
The Social Service Committee was back in the fore in '88, finding new ways of raising money for worthy causes It was felt that this year the Social Service Committee needed a facelift and a change in its format
This was done by asking for the first time in many years to obtain a representative from every Tutor Group In doing this, we intended to gain total student awareness of people who need money for a worthy cause, and to increase student involvement in all charitable events undertaken
Although it took a term to obtain all Committee members (one person from every Tutor group), the Social Service Committee worked with increased fortitude and effort
Money raised this year is going to Lumeah, a nursing home for the aged which is run by the Uniting Church and which needs funds to update its ancient kitchen facilities
PLEASE NOTE: Raising funds is a difficult occupation
So please - when you are approached by a battered Social Service Representative bearing tidings of an upcoming event of a box of chocolates in her hand give your support - you will receive more than you give
Fiona Barnett, Social Service Committee
Student v. Staff Netball
THE YEAR THAT WAS
OUTWARD BOUND
After a restful six hour journey we reached our destination, the Grampians Our baggage was unloaded and we walked to our first campsite where we changed into our old clothes Next our group leader taught us a few knots, which were to help us put up our lavish accommodation — the Bivvy Let me explain A Bivvy is a sheet of plastic, usually strung between two trees to provide shelter
The next few days were spent orienteering and then two days rafting Even though it rained while we were rafting it was still good fun
On day five we spent an enjoyable time on the ropes course and had a lot of fun while bush cooking We spent at least six hours on day six walking up a huge mountain to sleep in a cave on the top But we all agreed that the abseiling and rock climbing on day seven was worth the walk Day eight was spent walking, and walking, along the Ridgeway The next day was a long awaited rest day, where we had the chance to take a much needed wash
After ten days we were all a little homesick for our families, decent food and our own beds On the last day we got up early, packed our bags and headed for home, having had a wonderful experience and gaining new 'friends in the process
Kate Webster Sian Whitford
INWARD BOUND
Now that you've read the brilliant article on what the girls did on Outward Bound, you probably want to know what the girls did back at good ol' M.L.C First of all the rumour that we would abseil off the P.E.C was just that — a rumour (PHEW'), however we did have normal P.E lessons We also saw many films including Gallipoli and Mash (if you see Mash bring a kleenex) which was fantastic We also went on three excursions, one to visit Art Exhibitions, one to go bushwalking and orienteering in (tada!) Warrandyte!!! Approximately twenty girls got lost The third was a fun-filled excursion to the local cemetry
We also had drama in which we rehearsed plays (most of us had scripts) which were to be performed on the last day of our nonoutward bound timetable — no comment on that stunning event We had double computer games, saw another film in a double period of music and had a barbeque and science lessons (writing in invisible ink! Augh!!) This may seem average but it was all great fun A definite plus was making rectangular pizza in Home Economics If you're wondering why some girls didn't go on Outward Bound here are the most common answers to this baffling question
i) I 'dunno'
ii) I didn't want a hole for a toilet Vicki Huang
Work Experience Year 10
In April this year it was time once again for the girls of Year 10 to venture out into the strange world of the work force For the incredible rate of three dollars per day we swept, filed, cleaned, made cups of coffee and did many other exciting tasks
Girls experienced many different work places including hospitals, schools, kindergartens, law courts and shops One lucky girl even saw an operation on a python!
Silver and Green asked a few girls to relate their own experiences out there in the real world
Janine Archman spent some time with the merry medics at Melbourne's Bellbird Hospital:
The first two days of my week were spent doing ward duty, where I took pulses, checked blood pressures, filled in charts and chatted to the patients I even injected a needle — into an orange! In theatre I watched a lady having her varicose veins removed It was rather like seeing worms pulled out! I also did some night duty during my week, when I worked from 9pm until 7.30am
Kate Boykett scooped some stories at Leader Newspapers:
I went to Leader because I have an interest in journalism I found myself writing press releases and datelines I saw the layout of the paper and became more aware of the work journalists do I went out on a story and wrote several articles myself To my amazement three of them were published!
Jacki Dillon learned about cancer treatment at the Peter MacCallum Hospital:
There was a moment of high drama when one elderly patient was saved from being completely paralysed Some x-ray opaque solution was injected into his spine 1 looked on eagerly as the patient was slowly tipped upside down to allow the solution to flow along the spinal canal On an x-ray video monitor I saw the whole thing It showed clearly that the spinal column was blocked Before I knew it the doctors and nursing staff around me had sprung into action and quickly wheeled the patients away to have the tumour removed, for in three hours he would have been completely paralysed
Angelique Pantazi made eye contact with a murderer during her week at a Barrister's firm:
On my first day I was fortunate enough to accompany a lawyer to the City Court to hear a drug and theft case The highlight of my work experience, however, was when I was taken to see a murder trial in the Supreme Court Actually seeing a murderer face to face was unnerving but I soon became entranced in the case itself
The lawyers explained certain terms to me and asked my opinion of what the jail term should be I was relieved to hear the offender getting eighteen years in jail
Drawing by Kirrily Weber Year 10
The Hornets' Nest
This year, the Year 10 Theatre Arts students performed "The Hornets' Nest" for the annual Cabaret show
"The Hornets' Nest" is a play which they wrote themselves, about a group of families living in a block of flats
As the audience entered the foyer of the Centenary Building, where the show was being held, they were greeted by the "Viewpoint" girls, who took them through the realistic setting of rubbish, bottles and a clothes-line hoisted across the walls, draped with "stunning" underwear
During the evening, the audience was treated to a delicious three-course meal, prepared by the Year 12 Catering girls The meal, however, was not the only great thing about the evening—the entertainment was also terrific In many short and humorous scenes, we were given an insight into the lives of those living in the flats; in particular, the clumsy, inconsiderate family, the Hornets
The cast managed to keep the audience interested, with their excellent acting, right up until the very end, when the play ended with a strange and ironic twist
Everyone involved with the Cabaret, particularly Miss Francis and Miss Groutsch, should be commended for organising such an enjoyable night, which proved to be such a great success
Anna Stewart
Year 10 Cabaret
Electives
This year's Year 9 and 10s had a wide range of subjects to choose from, for the Two Period Elective Programme A continuing popular choice was Community Involvement, which includes sending the girls to various community centres around Melbourne, to participate in helping others
Other subjects included were Debating, First Aid, Motor Mechanics, Journalism and Gardening Three new subjects have been introduced into the Two Period Elective Programme this year: Clowning Workshop, which entails learning about comedy, satire, and how to become a simple clown; Wardrobe, which gives the students the opportunity to work in the OLCD Department and Wardrobe; and Architecture, in which students work with an architect, and learn some skills of that particular trade
THE YEAR THATWAS EXCHANGES IMAGES OF JAPAN
Gaijin-san! Foreigners in Japan quickly learn that their presence can be met with numerous reactions For where else but in Japan can you walk down the street and leave in your wake gaping children on the verge of hysteria, giggling schoolgirls clasping hands to their mouths, and oldies locked in frozen stares?
No guide books can prepare you for the culture-shock that comes from simply being a Gaijin They may inform you of the country's beauty, its peoples generosity or the excitement of Tokyo, but nowhere will you find the life-saving information tourists to Japan should know For that reason sit back and read the amazing but true stories of an experienced Gaijin
From the moment you step off the plane in Japan you will never feel lost Foreigners are referred to as Aliens at Customs, and stared at by the hundreds of short, black haired, brown eyed people everywhere you go
One of the first things you will notice while living in Japan are the peculiar smells you encounter when walking down the side-streets; open sewers, fish shops and fresh seaweed are the most pungent Another notable feature is the lack of footpaths
Bikes, pedestrians and seatbeltless cars all use the same crowded road space and scare Gaijins half to death
Hints for a first time Gaijin:
1 Don't be surprised when your hair falls out — it's the water
2 Don't forget to take your shoes off indoors
3 Don't panic if there are no locks on doors - it's a safe country
4 Don't take the packets of free tissues handed out at the front of department stores - they advertise brothels!
5 Don't be perturbed by anti-Gaijin vans that drive around hurling abuse at foreigners — they're quite harmless
6 Don't be surprised by shopping bags that say things like Cabin - tasty heart, Vegatation or Enjoy naked sports with sunbuns - remember your Japanese is probably just as funny as their broken English
Language is a completely separate problem The Japanese have come to a strange conclusion that if you can speak two words of their language you are fluent Another difficulty is that no one speaks text book Japanese To overcome both these drawbacks foreigners invent their own language GAIJINESE which is 'A Japanese, % English, Vi umms and errs, and a substantial amount of sign language However if you haven't got the hang of Gaijinese, and you don't have a dictionary, just smile and look polite
Once you get over the main cultureshock of Japan's public baths, sumo wrestling and people wearing surgical masks if they have a cold, you start to see the funny side of events that occur every day such as forgetting to say "hot' when you order coffee and amusing your host by wearing toilet slippers outside of the toilet Gaijin must also remember that taxis have automatic doors so stand well clear But three problems still arise frequently for Gaijin; travel, toilets and chopsticks
The first is overcome by sitting next to the train window to make sure you're going the right way Don't, however, fall asleep or you might miss your stop and end up in another state ( Don't laugh It actually happened to a friend of mine )
The second is a little harder Japanese style toilets ( a hole in the floor.) are best avoided so go to western style ones where ever possible If, however, you must use the uncivilized style, squat towards the door, and don't fall in
Chopsticks takes a great deal of skill The golden rule is practice Attempt small pieces of meat and vegetables before trying noodles Gaijins prefer to use two hands and stab at their food which is considered to be illmannered at the table
This brings me to one paradox Gaijin never understand Japanese table manners Restaurants are always clean and you are given a glass of cold water and a hot hand towel as soon as you sit down But Japanese Homes generally have messy kitchens where it is a common place to pass wind and slurp noisily at the dinner table Only Gaijin blow their nose in public, Japanese think it is more appropriate to sniff
As it is taken for granted in Australia that everyone is an individial, it comes as a shock to realise everyone in Japan is stereotyped Don't be embarrassed if someone calls you fuji-san (Mt.Fuji) it's just because your nose is 'high' compared to theirs
Gaijin are easily recognisable: they are not worried about strawberries being five dollars a punnet and they don't crave to see a tree or a patch of grass Once you start bowing while on the telephone you know it's time you came home because you're turning Japanese! Kate Mizrahi, Year 11
Farewell H I RO M I
G'day! My name is Hiromi Aoyama My nickname is " Fearless Fly " I'm an exchange student from Nagoya, Japan I came from MLCs sister school Hirayama Gakuen Tsushima Girls' high School I've been at MLC about 12 months Now I'm really sad because soon I have to go back to Japan But, I don't want to leave MLC because MLC is really a wonderful school I love MLC and I love Oz
The first time I came to MLC was in 1985 on a school trip, then in 1986 on another school trip I went to Brisbane They were both really good experiences This is my 3rd time in Australia I have been to Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane and the Gold Coast several times I don't like Melbourne's funny weather or all the flies, but I think Melbourne is the best Australian city
I came to MLC in April 1987 as an exchange student for one year In Japan I had studied English but I couldn't speak it at all when I first came to Oz Well, what I mean is that we had learnt American English in Japan, but I couldn't understand Australian English It was too fast and I had a hard time keeping up with the English lessons Now I think I'm getting better So thank you for helping me learn lots of English, and thank you for helping me enjoying life in Oz I really appreciate the kindness of MLCs principal Mr Loader, Mrs McKenzie and other teachers
I'll never forget MLC and everyone there Someday I'll come back to MLC again and I'm looking forward to seeing you then Also, if you can, could you come to Japan to visit my school and me, OK? SEE YOU LATER, MATE! SEE YOU IN OZ OR JAPAN!
Hiromi Aoyama
CROSS AGE TUTORING.
It possibly seems strange to most Year 12s, and certainly to my year 7 tutor group that I am writing this article. simply because I haven't seen my year 7's for at least 2 months! However, I do support the concept of Year 12's and Year 7's having contact with one another, as we all know how daunting it is to start secondary school and see all those huge seniors — they seem a world apart!!
I'm very pleased with this country Australia is greater than I thought Australia is quite different from JAPAN — the way of thinking, living etc I can find out new things every day My school life in MLC is much better than first day 1 got a lot and lot of teachers Talking is interesting and a good lesson But English is still very hard for me I can't say "celery" yet — but a dictionary is very helpful
Yasuko
I remember when I first started at M.L.C how much older I thought the seniors were I never thought that one day I would look like that! And yet the Year 7's of 1983 have made it to V.C.E so it's our duty to let those youngens know that they're just as much a part of the school as we are As I said, it's been a while since I've seen my tutor group, however we've broken the barrier between juniors and seniors In first term the three of us Year 12's decided to have a chicken and chip luncheon for our tutor group although I was sick that day, I was told it was a success (Although there were the few who kept saying pizza would've been better) In second term, we decided a B.B.Q would be a good idea to get the girls up at "our end" of the school, so a B.B.Q was organized behind Senior Centre, and even I was there! After lunch, the girls took a look through Senior Centre the definition of excitement to Year 7's the definition of a slum and a pig sty for Year 12's
The idea of cross age tutoring is to establish a relationship between seniors and juniors in order to make them feel part of the school, and bridge the gap between the year levels Although I find it hard to get to school on time let alone early to visit my tutor group, I think we've at least broken the ice, and there is a bond between the year levels SUE DUNFORD
If it was a big shock for me to come to Australia, I think coming to MLC was an even bigger shock I came from a small co-ed school on the countryside and we are about 150 students and 10 teachers The first week here I couldn't find anything or anyone People came and said "Hi, how are you I'm fine, bye," and off they went Everything was so different here: I had to wear a uniform and I found especially the shoes very uncomfortable (I still do) I also had to bring my own lunch and I had usually eaten most by recess, because at home we get a hot lunch at 10.40am.It also took me a couple of weeks before I discovered there's something called lockers so then I could stop carrying my very heavy bag I quite quickly learned to call the teachers by Mrs, Mr or Miss and surname, instead of just saying their first names like at home So my first impression of MLC was that it was so huge and so noisy But all the students were very nice and friendly and that helped a lot
Now 1have been here for almost 8 months and now time is just going too fast I still think MLC is big and noisy, but now I really enjoy it So many subjects are offered and there's always something to do Most of all I like the new sport complex which I think I'm going to miss a lot when 1go home in July
During my stay here I've been living with four families and have two more to go.So far they have all been absolutely great! I've been to central Australia, Sydney, Canberra and I spent most of the summer holidays lying on the beach (certainly better than snow like home)
So even if it was a big shock in the beginning, it's been worth every penny I spent on this year Thanks to all students for being so great!
Britt-Helen Lindman Finnish exchange student
GOODBYE AO-CHAN
We were very sorry to say "good-bye" to Ao-chan in March this year, after being at MLC as an exchange student for a year with the 'Australia-Japan Society'
Ao-chan exchanged with Kirsty Ford (Yr 11), and she stayed with her family for most of the year, also visiting other families from time to time In particular, she stayed with Jodie Storey (Yr 11), Alex Bowen (Year 12) and myself for several weeks at each stay
Ao-chan was very popular amongst those who knew her, especially with the year eleven students with whom she attended classes
We all miss her smiling face very much, and wish her all the best for the future
Cathy Gittins, Yr 12
IN THE MOOD FOR FOOD MRS PATTERSON speaks of life
as a tuckshop lady
Q: How long have you been working in the MLC Tuckshop?
A: Fourteen years
Q: Did you need to do any special type of course to get this job?
A: No
Q Do you find the MLC girls polite? Are they getting better or worse?
A:On the whole, they are quite polite The girls at MLC reached their worst behaviour a few years ago, but now they are getting better Of course, there are still the occasional rude ones
Q:Do the teachers get a discount on any food?
A:No
Q:What is the best part of the job?
A:Getting to meet lots of mothers and many girls
Q:What is the worst part of the job?
A:Sometimes there aren't enough people to help and we feel rushed Also, often girls don't clean up their mess so the tuckshop ladies clean up before the cleaner sees it, as they feel ashamed ( Hint, Hint)
Q:Do you work long hours?
A:I work a seven hour day
Q:Will the tuckshop be getting in more food like Mars Bars?
A:No The only reason we got them in was because the seniors had them and we felt that everyone should be able to have them
Q:Who decides what is sold at the tuckshop?
A:Myself and a special tuckshop committee
Q: Are health foods encouraged?
A: Yes The range of health food has improved 100 per cent over the past few years
A Thought
I suppose if our sun was a sweet lolly by now it would have been plucked from the sky and into someone's mouth
Tania Mattei, Year 11
Q:What is the most popular food at the tuckshop?
A:Filled rolls That is what we make the most of
Q:How many litres of sauce are used?
A:In winter, about twelve litres of tomato sauce are used, each week
Q: Approximately how much money is spent each day by the girls who come into the tuckshop?
A:Probably between about $1.50 and $2.00
Q:How many lettuces are chopped up each day?
A: About six to nine lettuces, but it really depends on the size Anna Stewart, Year 10
YEAR 12 DANCE
On with the dance! No sleep 'til morn, when Youth and Pleasure meet, to chase the glowing hours with flyingfeet." — Lord Byron
Tension built up in Senior Centre Taffeta, silk, satin, velvet? High heels, flat heels, stilettos? Leather, vinyl, plastic? Fishnets, nylon, silk? What does he look like in a tuxedo? Is he tall or short? Will his bow tie match my dress? Which table will everyone sit on? Who will be separated? It was questions like these and the deep soulsearching they caused which led to a great many absences on Friday the 24th of June
The great event was held in the Australis Room of the Southern Cross Hotel The efforts of the day, the facials, the manicures, the hairdressing appointments, had been worthwhile Everyone looked sensational!!! All the partners looked suave and sophisticated in their tuxedos while the transformation from school uniform was incredible Mr Loader, Mrs McKenzie and Mrs Otzen looked suitably impressed when we met them at the door The dance began with a bang (literally as everyone popped the balloons, conveniently placed on the tables by the Southern Cross staff)
We were entertained with the 'Top 40' disco hits pleasantly interrupted by such gems as 'When my baby smiles at me I go to Rio' by Peter Allen and 'Staying Alive' by the BeeGees In between grooving we ate the interesting but tasty three course meal
The dance officially ended at 12.00pm (so all the Cinderellas could make it home on time) but the party didn't (All those invited to Simone's 18th birthday party kicked up their heels to all hours at the I'm sure everyone is grateful for the opportunity Simone provided Happy Birthday Sim!!!)
Many thanks to the absolutely wonderful dance committee who cannot be thanked enough It will be a long time before anyone can repeat the excitement of the 1988 year twelve dance MARGARET HOWIE
MARTHA HOWARD
House Debating
MLC House Debating has been gaining popularity over the past few years This year all five houses in Senior School competed once more for the honour of winning In the first round the topic was "That the Bicentennary is a waste of money" and Fitchett defeated Cato The second round had the topic "Horoscopes are bunk" with Berry narrowly beating Krome Fitchett won the third round with "Science should stay out of the womb" The final, held in assembly, proved to be a highly amusing, entertaining debate between Berry and Fitchett This year Berry took the honours, winning by five points A well deserved win!
Julia Pryor, Year 11
Year 12 School Debating Team
"I grew intoxicated with my own eloquence."
Benjamin Disraeli
YEAR 12
GEOGRAPHY CAMP
During the weekend of the 20th 22nd May, thirty year 12 students departed for a challenging and memorable weekend The two mini buses were burdened with ranging poles, thermometers, tape measures, soil PH testers and various other geographical contraptions, to be heavily utilized during the next two days
After a restless two hours in the mini buses, driven by no other than Mr Underwood (who was evidently out of practise at driving a manual vehicle)and Miss Shipp, we arrived at Ace Hi Riding Ranch in Rosebud — our accomodation for the weekend
The purpose of the camp was to conduct a field study and observe various types of coastal systems, at three separate locations As a break from our VERY busy schedule, recreation time was allowed, during which we went horse riding
Overall, the camp was an enjoyable and productive way to study our core topic on coastal systems Melinda Walker, Year 12
YEAR 11 DEBATING
This year MLC has two year eleven debating teams in the regional debates held at Xavier throughout the year Our two teams competed magnificently with all the grace, charm and ease of experienced debaters, but unfortunately neither team reached the finals We had a great time though, with new friends from Xavier, Marcellin Trinity and other schools from our region The topics were mostly very 'deep and meaningful', but humour was evident, especially in such topics as "that the negative are wrong" (both teams were negative for that round) How can an MLC girl be wrong?
Debating is really great fun so I would encourage all the younger years to go in for it
OPENDAY —A dayinthelifeof a guide
"Why did I offer to be a guide?" I thought to myself as I arrived at school in my uniform on a Sunday "I don't know anything about this school I'm just a student here!" But there I was and it was too late to turn back I had to press on I found a group of guides twiddling their thumbs in the Assembly Hall Foyer They were waiting for the big wigs in the school to finish their speeches and release the "prospective students and interested persons" they held captive I had not twiddled my thumbs for long when along came my first person in need "Excuse me," a small voice said I looked down into the troubled face of a little girl
"Excuse me but where's the toilet please?" With my best guiding manner, I showed her to the closest toilet and returned to the foyer to twiddle my thumbs again Suddenly, people poured out of the Assembly Hall I grabbed a family and headed off to see what Open Day had to offer
There was certainly a lot going on! Students were demonstrating sports in the Sports Complex (there were many impressed 'oooohs' and 'aaaaahs' here) The business school was showing off the flashy new IBM computers and both the art department and the O.L.C.D department had great displays The Year 12 chemistry girls were determining
the amount of sulfur dioxide in wine, and all 1 can say is that there were a lot of suspiciously happy girls in that lab!! Our highly talented M.L.C musicians entertained everyone during refreshments
An estimated 1,500 people turned up to Open Day so it was a definite success!!! Helen Mentha, Year 11
Friends
Friends are for caring, Friends are sharing, Friends are with you, When they are true False friends are bare, Scattered everywhere Cathy Manos, Year 7C
Middle School Drama Festival
o R T
BADMINTON
Practice commenced early in March for badminton enthusiasts who came early on Thursday mornings to have a game before school
An open tournament was held on MLC's Open Day with a two-fold purpose-as an exhibition match as well as to sift out potential school representatives Two teams, each comprising 14 members from the Senior and Middle schools were selected to represent MLC
Friendly matches were played in Term 2, from which the school team members benefitted immensely in terms of experience and camaraderie
Regular training commenced late in Term 2 under the vigilant eyes of Miss Medhurst It was further intensified in Term 3 with additional sessions held on some afternoons, in preparation for the Round Robin Tournaments scheduled for Term 4
Unfortunately, at the time of printing, these matches have yet to be played off
In conclusion, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Miss Sharman for her guidance and support, and especially to Miss Medhurst for her patience, dedication and skilful coaching
Here's to the MLC Badminton teams, and may we continue to make a racket in the school badminton scene in the years to come!
Inter-School Swimming
The Inter-House Swimming Sports was a most enjoyable day with enthusiastic participation by those who attended It was from this event that the School Swimming team was chosen to represent the school in three major events
The first major Inter-School swimming competition was the ESA Carnival The team swam extremely well, and MLC came second against a strong MCEGGS team The next competition was the GPSVA carnival Once again the swimmers competed strongly, but were unable to beat the MCEGGS team The final Inter-School event was the 'AllSchools" swimming carnival The heats were swum on Saturday April 16 in the morning MLC successfully qualified in ten out of eleven events There was some tremendous swimming and personal "bests" were achieved Once again, MLC tried hard to beat MCEGGS, and yet again took second place
There were exceptional swims by the under-twelves relay team, which won several medals in the finals
A most enjoyable surprise was the invitation by Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar to swim at the opening of their new Sports Complex on June 18 This was a great honour, and everybody enjoyed themselves immensely
We would like to give special thanks to Mrs Robertson, who encouraged the swimmers and supported the team, Mrs Armstrong, who organised the team, and Miss Maclntyre, for her work as the coach of the team
Thank you also to all the participants for a successful year of swimming
YEAR 7.
Annie Mecklen, Sacha Bond, Suzanne Alway, Kerbie Edelston, Sasha Robertson
YEAR 8
Rowena Mullins, Papi Robertson, Meagan Ross, Rosie Allison, Catherine Brown, Pauline Arnold
YEAR 9
Jayne Ketley, Fiona Hart, Suzie Gowan, Anna Blunden
YEAR 10
Tanya Duncan, Jaqueline Nathanielsz, Elizabeth Sewell, Melissa Lamb, Kate Houston, Yasuko Sakurose, Karen Davies
YEAR 11
Kim Bond, Margie Patrick, Kate Wilcox, Catherine Svars, Gillian Coutts, Kendrea Pope
YEAR 12
Liz Patrick, Amanda Dux
DIVERS
YEAR 7
Fiona Stott
YEAR 8
Lisa Altman, Rachel Wilmott
YEAR 9
Rebekah Sleeth
YEAR 10
Wendy Cowan Melissa Hunter
YEAR 11
Genevieve Searle
YEAR 12
Rachel Grier
Elizabeth Patrick and Amanda Dux, School
School Swimming Team
Swimming Captains
Senior Netball and Hockey trip
On the weekend of May 20th -22nd, the Senior Hockey team and two Senior Netball teams went to Sydney to play in tournaments organised by our sister school, Sydney MLC
The first tournament was on Friday afternoon and the competition was excellent The hockey team played extremely well to come second, losing by only one penalty flick to Sydney MLC As it was only the second time the team had played on 'astro-turf, their efforts were outstanding The netball teams also performed well, especially the A team which won every match and consequently won the tournament The B team came fourth in the tournament and their efforts were also excellent as they had little experience playing together before
On Saturday morning, the second tournament got underway and again the Sydney schools provided strong competition The hockey team was not quite as successful but they played outstandingly against several very tough Sydney teams The netball team again played really well and there was a huge improvement in the performances of every girl The A team won all their matches and went to first place The B team won most of their matches and finished in fourth place
The Sydney girls who billeted the girls were wonderful hosts and took us to many places such as the Opera House, Circular Quay, the Rocks, Centrepoint, and to Manly In Sydney, everyone went to see the new Darling Harbour Complex and most girls spent the day strolling through the multicultural food hall, watching the Chinese Lion Display, looking in the boutiques and gift shops, and enjoying the sunny weather
The trip was a great success and was enjoyed by everyone
Not only was it a lot of fun but all the girls gained valuable experience, and it is to be hoped that in 1989, the Sydney MLC teams will come to Melbourne and have the opportunity to play MLC again
The Hockey squad:
Fiona Allen, Fiona Barnett, Kate Axup, Rosalie Smith, Daina Clark, Jane Morgan, Jo Bruce, Emma Leary, Belinda Trembath, Felicity Barber, Kim Bond, Brooke Chapman, Elise Reid, Melinda Bacon
The Netball teams:
Team A — Peta Kennedy, Jenny Wilson Jodie Storey, Fiona Burgess, Sandra Chin, Sue Wood, Sharney Oster, and Natalie Jeffcott
Team B — Kathy Cassin, Rebecca Edwards, Helen Gibney, Kate Rayment, Melissa McClelland, Rebekah Williamson, Amanda Sterkenberg, Sarah Ross-Edwards, and Vicki Wilson Coaches: Mrs Swaine and Miss Charman
Kathy Cassin, Year 12
New Zealand Netball
On the 5th of May, we were fortunate in being able to play against two netball teams from Newlands College, New Zealand The competition was excellent and both schools enjoyed the matches We had a few minor interuptions during both matches however, as several Newlands College girls were overcome by the heat In New Zealand, netball is played outdoors, so the girls were not used to the indoor conditions Despite this, the Newlands College B team won Against the M.L.C B team, and the M.L.C A team won against the Newlands College A team Congratulations to all the girls ! Kathy Cassin, Year 12
Senior Basketball
Both basketball teams had a very successful season last year and they continually displayed great potential with their basketball skills After a rather humiliating defeat by Camberwell Girls' Grammar at the PEC opening in May of last year, we managed to complete the actual basketball season undefeated — beating Camberwell second time around All players were enthusiastic and dedicated, well deserving of our victories
On behalf of the team I would like to thank My Bylart for his training and help throughout the season and to wish him all the best for the future I'm sure his support (especially the Mars bar bribes!) will be greatly missed by all The oncoming season promises a few difficult games but with the high standard shown by last year's teams, another successful season is in order
Middle School Softball
The softball season for MS this year was very successful, and thanks must go to Miss Gill for being a good coach The A-team, captained by Melinda Kennedy, won most of their games, with excellent batting and fielding by everyone in the team Although the B-team, captained by Claire Leach, lost a few matches, they still had heaps of fun and improved their skills
We finished off the season with a 'big' night out at McDonalds, where we feasted with the MS Tennis team (who also had a great season) and Miss Gill and Mr Bylart Melinda Kennedy, Year 10
Squash
This year has seen the re-introduction of an Inter-school Squash Club which has been appreciated by the scattered squash players around the school Training has been each Thursday at lunchtime and the teams have had coaching from Mrs Johnson, an experienced competitor
The practice matches so far have been interesting to say the least With few schools actually having a squash team, MLC has had to play Mt Scopus, Carey and Wesley MLC has proven to be fairly strong against these teams, generally consisting of males
Yet, the Year 12 Carey team still presents more than a small problem Most of us were slightly worried, understandably, on entering the court to compete against them
In the second part of the year, the interschool competition will officially commence Best of luck to the squad
Tania Mattei, Year 11
Rowing
The rowing season of 1988 has been enjoyable for all involved The competition seemed to be even harder than last year The 4th and 5th crews did a great job by winning at the Head of the School Girls Regatta The 3rd crew must also be commended on winning every race except one
There are now 35 students rowing for M.L.C and this number has been boosted by Year 9 starting recently The sport has grown within M.L.C and to meet the demand we bought two more boats This brings the total to 7 fours and 1 skull This is one of the biggest womens rowing clubs in Victoria Our new boats were named the Bev Worboys because she has supported the club since 1981, and the other was named Brian Hanley because he helped to raise money for the club
The first crew represented M.L.C at the National Titles in Penrith, Sydney and reached both semi-finals of the School Girls Division and the Junior Division We had the third best time in the School Girls Division but unfortunately in the wrong race!
We must proudly bring to your attention that M.L.C has a great number of exstudents at a very high standard of rowing
Many have reached National and even Olympic standard The most recent successes have been : Minnie Cade, who is currently in the Australian Lightweight Four ; Fiona Werner and Fleur Worboys, who are both in the 1988 Victorian Youth Four
We would like to thank our coaches and the Silver Star Rowing Club Committee for their support Mr Loader is also very encouraging
Not many people realise how much effort we put into rowing each week throughout the season
We row every night, run on Tuesdays and do weights twice a week during term 1, and during weekends we row in regattas After the Season of 1988 we will continue with a weight program two nights a week and running every other
Everybody is looking forward to a challenging 1989 season The Nationals will be held in Perth and hopefully, we will be taking two crews This will involve a lot of fund raising The Third form rowers are turning out to be very skilled and strong so our club is again strengthening every year Anna Rusden
Rowing
Skiing
BERRY: Flying Purple Turtle-Eaters
Just for good measure, this celebrated House considered it wise to diversify its talents — this time in the dramatic arena This proved rewarding, under the devoted leadership of Melissa Jeffcott and Tracy Dean Berry's play "Flowers for Algernon" received second place in the Senior House Drama Festival As I write to you now, the Middle School Berryites are earnestly practising their play, "The man who wouldn't go to Heaven" for their big night, and my tingling toes have told me that they are going to beFANTABULOUS!!
Our team of Senior School debaters also came out on top, thanks to the work of captains Dinusha Joseph and Linda Mileshkin, and the gallant performances by all the team members
"We are Berry, couldn't be prouder. If you can't hear us, we'll shout a little louder!"
WE ARE . . . going to hand this annual Berry report over to Myrtle T. Turtle, who is writing all the way from Zambabwe.
Dear Berryites,
How are you, gang? I'm presently holidaying with Uncle Bob, who is an engine driver and a fine one at that He told me to say "howdy" to you all, so "howdy!" from Uncle Bob
About five months ago, after a series of tummy rumbles and an obsession for grilled gherkins, I was overwhelmingly surprised when I gave birth to three boggle-eyed babies who, without hesitation, I named Byrtle, Skyrtle and Hyrtle after our humble ancestors in West Dakota However, due to my recent promotion to head packer at the Bertie Beetle Factory, I had no time to nurse my little petals Fortunately, the Middle, Junior Secondary and Junior School Berryites of MLC offered to adopt them I am confident that they will nurture the Berry spirit for the benefit of future generations
I have been instructed to boast to you of Berry's fine accomplishments Winning the "Parson's" Cup in 1987 (i.e Berry came out No 1) has provided a firm base upon which a string of creditable performances has been achieved
Early in Term 1, Berry recorded an overall second placing in the House Swimming Sports, as a result of unrelenting and wholehearted support from all Berryites showed their true colours in the water, on the diving boards, in the marshalling areas and suffocating while "standing up, sitting down, standing up, sitting down" in the spectator stands
Following this success, our illustrious House launched itself into the Aths Day, which began with a BBQ brekky on the Yarra banks, followed by a Purple Brigade parade to Olympic Park Under the committed efforts of the Athletic captains, including Senior captains Peta Kennedy and Sophie Boland, Berry emerged triumphant We won the Aggregate Shield, as a result of the Senior and Middle School Berryites winning their respective cups and Junior Secondary coming third
The team sports have rolled steadily along and victorious or not, Berry's performances and unified approach have been admirable I would like to offer my great appreciation to all the CHAMPION captains! Berry's individual and team efforts in the House Gym are also to be praised Thanks go to Melinda Storey for her enthusiastic guidance as Senior Captain
I would very much like to congratulate all those Berryites responsible for the infinite number of under-the-surface achievements
which always go unnoticed, so: "CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THOSE BERRYITES RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INFINITE NUMBER OF UNDER-THESURFACE ACHIEVEMENTS WHICH ALWAYS GO UNNOTICED!" The proposed introduction of Berry certificates will be an official recognition of such loyal deeds
I would also like to extend my appreciation to leaders and participants in all other Berry activities; to Mrs Chamberlain, Mrs Weber and Mrs Ashton-Smith for faithfully committing themselves to the Berry cause, and to all House recorders for being so supportive
Oh! I would also like to thank myself for being such a devout fan (thank you, myself), and great, great, great Grandma Gyrtle who founded the new renowned Berry Spirit, back in Georgia in 1863
All my zerbits, Myrtle
PS Send my love to the kids PPS "COULDN'T BE PROUDER!"
CATO: Rapping itup
This year CATO has totally reformed its image!! The CATOITES of 1988 are a team of rough and tough, death-defying, mothereating, invincible rappers!
Although not willing to admit it, the other houses have been in awe of our supreme ringa-ding-ding rapping machine!
No obstacle has been too great for us! We have conquered the balance beams and floor with our victory in Gym The senior hockey squad fired through to supremacy with a big win and other senior, middle and junior teams weren't far behind at all!
Some may say 'this is where your victor ies end, CATO!!'
But no Let us redifine 'VICTORY!'
Our enthusiasm is not dampened by the fact that we haven't been excruciatingly successful But we keep on rapping and trying our best — and thats VICTORY!
We ran and swam our way to fourth place in both the Aths and swimming We showed
our form with modest placings in term sports led by a pack of rapping, enthusiastic captains in every quadrant of the school
Cato is a house of budding actresses and we proved this with the 'Mutilated' — a fine performance Equally as fine will be the Middle School production of 'Shall we join the Ladies.'
This year Pooh and his gang have been lucky enough to have the spagniferous support of Mr Mathison, Mr Notsis, Miss Buckley and Mrs James
Last year we won!
This year — well its not over yet and CATO will take NNNNNNNNO flack for RAP!!!
Thanks for your Rappiness CATO and keep it up in a huge way next year and forever!!!!
Mezza Lewis: HOUSE CAPTAIN
Genevieve Blanchett: VICE CAPTAIN Pooh Rappy Bear: HOUSE MASCOT
Now, Hey there CATO
Won't you lend an ear
Cause we've got a race to run
And we're runnin' it here
We were born in the team of the great CATO
From a Cub
To a Bear
To a Rapper
You know
Cause we're a Beautiful House
And we're a house of steel
And it's easy to rap
When C.C.CATO'S UUUUNREAL!
Well no-one's ever seen a better team
Than the CATO rrrrrap-machine
We're all been winnin' them
Lap by lap
So join us now in the CCCCCCCATO RAP!
NNNNNNNNO flack for RAP
Now, Here's a little message that we'd like you to know
Pooh Bears got the rhythm and you've got the go!
We're gonna rock you and-a-bop you till your e down in the ground
Gotta get up and fight till we win all around
CATO — clap clap clap clap clap clap
CATO — chchchchch
CATO — clap clap clap clap clap clap
CATO — CCCCCCCCCC
CATO is the coolest house you ever will see CATO is the hottest house there ever will be
CATO is the house for laughs and fun
CATO is the house that has always won
Now we've got a bit of Aths
And a little bit of swimmin'
A little bit of drama
And a little singin'
So join in our party
And laugh a lot
CATO, CATO It hits the spot
RAP REPORT
Well a ring-a-ding ding
For a CATO rap
We are the house who take no flack!
We've rocked 'em and a bopped 'em
On the athletics field!
Cheered 'em and succeeded!
Anywhere we please 1988's been fun for all
With smiles all 'round
With no one bored
So rap them and a rock them through the centuries for we are the House who are SUPREME!!!!
FITCHETT: TheYellowPeril
Fitchett House began the year with a new member to the team, 'Tuff Stuff Mark 2', a life size fellow who gave great strength to the house throughout the year Special thanks goes to Julia Durrel who organised a chocolate drive to raise Fitchett funds, and to all those who helped by selling them
From the beginning of 1988, we wore our bright yellow colours and showed plenty of spirit The first event was the swimming sports and this was a triumphant day for Fitchett We reeled in a second place in each of the separate schools and a first overall Congratulations go to Amanda Dux and Fiona Allan, plus the other captains for their team spirit and all Fitchettites who supported the House on the day
The Annual Sports Day at Olympic Park was a great day for all those who involved themselves The Lionesses that proudly wore their colours all deserve a medal Julia and Sarah Ross Edwards (Senior athletics captains) led the star studded house in the marching Thanks goes to them and all the other captains
In the Senior House Drama Festival, we presented Dylan Thomas' play," The Doctor and the Devils', produced and directed by Emma Clayton and Cathy Donnison
It was a very challenging play and everyone involved really enjoyed it A big thanks to Emma and Cathy who were such great (and patient) captains and congratulations to Krome who really deserved to win The Senior Debating Team, captained by Michelle Harvey and Tabitha Clutterbuck, roared into second place, coming runners up to Berry Congratulations to all debators Senior House music is just beginning and we wish the captains, Susannah Leach and Kylie Doyle, the best of luck Hopefully, the melodic roar of the lionesses will make beautiful music
Kate and 1 would like to thank the Junior Secondary and Middle School captains for their great contributions to the House in '88
} FITCHEn
Also thanks to Mr Ellis our dedicated Senior Master, Mrs Myers our Middle School and Mrs Christie our Junior Secondary School Mistresses, for their enthusiasm and support The whole House owes Jean Bain our Senior School recorder a lot, as she successfully managed our House colour system Thanks again to all the Fitchettites who have supported Kate and I Everyone deserves a giant size lion hug!
Cathy Donnison Kate Axup
KROME: Fantastic FrogPower
Hey people! Woodrow and Ori here, summing up 1988 — the year that was for Krome A year of mixed fortunes would probably best describe our year — not that we've done badly, on the contrary it's been a pretty Hot Banana year!!!
For starters we had the Swimming Sports and thanks to our dudes of captains Liz and Lisa who did a big job getting us to come third overall The day was fun with heaps of lost voices! Then we hooned into the Athletics at the home of MLC sport — Olympic park The brekky on the Yarra was one of the best turn-ups this institution has ever seen and there was lots of yummy food for all of us to pig out on! Rose and Sharnie put in a 150 percent effort into organizing us pack of lazy greenies into winning proficiency The first time since the Aboriginies contested the Bi-centenary (Woodrow's political comment)
Thanks to the Middle and Junior captains for all your wumpy enthusiasm
The drama came next We burst onto the stage with the fantastic production of Serapio, brilliantly directed by Kate Ori and Susie Kent (rumoured to be now directing Cats!!!) The hard work of the cast and crew, especially from our legendary stage manager Janine, really paid off Well done, kids The Middle School drama is well on the way and it looks like being the new smash hit of '88
Meanwhile, while all of this was going on, the team captains in softball, tennis, hockey, netball, table-tennis, squash and badminton were busy organizing teams to do battle with the other Houses
Krome did really well in all levels and thanks to all the people who tried really hard Gym was another area that Krome did really well in as we came second Thanks Sage, we just missed out Congratulations to all you frogs who participated — especially JSS ace mate!
And now for something totally unexpected, Krome won the cross-country with Lindy only winning by about 10 km this year On ya Lindy as well as all competitors who braved the gruelling course
Finally, thanks to our dedicated House mistresses — we wouldn't have survived without them Miss Meagan you are a legend and the same goes for Miss Heffernan and Mrs Ritter Also Mrs Wood, thanks once again for your contributions they were greatly appreciated Mrs Woods (a Greenie from way back) we are glad you had a good and well-deserved holiday but us frogs did miss you
Thanks heaps Krome, especially JSS, for all of your enthusiasm and your happiness
This year thanks to the JSS captains Lenore Ellet and Ariadne Pitts and the MS captains Gabby and Kate And lastly but not leastly, Woody —you've been a hot dog Good luck in future years Krome — it's been great THE FROGS RULE!!!!
PS Thanks to the cheerleaders, let's keep up the tradition guys
P.PS Thanks Year 12 — we couldn't have done it without you
CAPTAIN: Susan Wood
VICE-CAPTAIN: Kate Origlasso
NEVILE: Panthers onthe
So far, Nevile has had a wonderful year! From the first swimming trials in the first week of the year up to now we've had nonstop fun and there have been some startling results
In the Swimming Sports, our Middle School girls won and everyone else swam hard and fast Our Senior captain, Danni, put in lots of hard work and never-ending effort for which we congratulate her
No sooner had we recovered from the Swimming Sports when the ball games, athletics, and drama practices went into full swing to prepare those wonderfully enthusiastic Nevile volunteers for these important upcoming events
Bee and Kate, the drama duo, produced the hilarious comedy The Real Inspector Hound, which had the audience falling off their seats with laughter
And to Jenny Wilson, captain of Aths, netball, volleyball (do we have to go on?) we are eternally in debt Her efforts for the athletics were fantastic We won the Junior Secondary School section and actually came second overall, losing to Berry by only eight points Anyone who knows Nevile House will understand what a fantastic achievement this is — Nevile hasn't come that close to winning for years — if ever!
In our team sports we have won and lost our fair share of games but we've had more than our fair share of fun! Gymnastics was another success for us as we came second overall and won Middle School
Kate Doak must also be thanked for her unquestioning and constant support in all House events
Overall this year has been a great success and hopefully Nevile will continue to have fun and a great many success stories
Thanks to all who have helped make this year a memorable one!!
Olivia Millard and Lisa Benallack (Joint Senior House Captains)
THE J.R. OF THE MUSIC SCHOOL
How do you see Mrs Elton-Brown?
Is she just a slim-backed woman who conducts with a flurry of arms at the Gala Concert and Speech Night?
Other luckier mortals (such as we choir members) are exposed to her wicked grin and manic laugh as she cracks her idea of a funny joke Dedicated musos staying back late to practice may often glimpse Mrs EltonBrowns face with her glasses perched precariously on the end of her nose as she wrestles with the never ending pile of paperwork on her desk Whatever your vision, undoubtedly there is, in the back of your mind, a picture of an awe-inspiring, ruthless and fearsome perfectionist
Mrs Elton-Brown's first reaction to this was complete surprise "Oh dear" she said "They don't really see me like that do they?" After some thought on the matter, she agrees with the term 'perfectionist' and felt that "it is from working towards [perfection] that some people may define other less desirable characteristics" She prefers to see a discipline within herself that is required of all those who perform She places great emphasis on the tight management necessary to perform - the mastery over dynamics, articulation, tempo, intonation, phrasing, rhythm, tonal color and vocal clarity
And you thought singing was easy! Don't despair you people out there who can't 'Handel' these technical terms - you don't have to be an expert to enjoy music! According to Jane Elton-Brown anyone can love music as it has the ability to satisfy at many different levels
Music appeals to the mind, the spirit, the emotions, it realises no distinction in either age or background and it can be analysed as a complex social comment or just simply enjoyed as a combination of harmonious sounds "This" she says triumphantly "is why everyone thinks they are qualified to offer an opinion on music They are!" And it is this universal quality of music that fires her with such enthusiasm whenever the subject of music is mentioned
Being Music Director of MLC comes naturally to Mrs Elton-Brown as it encompasses many diverse responsibilities — she is both a musician and an administrator She believes it necessary, as Music Director, to possess some instrumental training so she has a fuller knowledge, understanding and technical appreciation of the music in hand And she also places great importance on teacher training Mrs Elton-Brown finds this comes in handy when she takes her regular classes
The Music Director must hold together a large team of staff and also become a unifying point for all areas of music — in the classroom and the extra-curricular music programme (including choir, madrigals, string orchestra, recorder ensemles) and the special music tuition programme While keeping all of these areas in check, Mrs Elton-Brown must also promote music to all parts of the school community by acting as a 'front-of-house' person full of enthusiasm and energy
Being at the helm of such a large department gives Mrs Elton-Brown the power to propose and instigate change and new direction For example, the Junior Secondary School's core music lessons have been enriched by the introduction of an electric keyboard lab And the recent development of interest in Chamber Music along with the fresh idea of a Concert band also shows new ground is being broken
You may wonder what made Mrs EltonBrown go into music in the first place
Mrs Elton-Brown has a long list of achievements accomplished during her years at MLC She won the Senior Piano Scholarship and the Solo Singing Scholarship, was the house pianist and also was awarded the title of School Pianist for two years running where she says "I accompanied for everything and everybody."
And if those musical achievements aren't enough for you, she was also an Associate Prefect (which is similar to an assistant prefect) and dux of her class in year 11 and year 12
And believe me, she didn't stop there
At Melbourne University, Mrs EltonBrown completed her Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours Then she finished her Master of Music and became the first person to be awarded this degree with First Class Honours After realising that for her the real joy in music lay in communicating her love for it to others, she chose teaching as a career, Mrs Elton-Brown completed her Diploma of Education at Melbourne University and won the Dwight Prize for being the top student in her year
Basically it was her inability to stay away from the piano for more than two minutes! Her piano teacher for eight years, Mr Mack Frost, injected this 'piano-fever' into her veins A strong involvement in musical activities at MLC which Mrs Elton-Brown attended for twelve years also provided a profound musical influence lir"H|lyM i I I1 IQj I i1 I1 1 i )i Ii r f j
1971 was a big year for Jane Elton as she was appointed Music Director of MLC after teaching here for many years She also married Elwyn Brown (who has been our accomplished and patient pianist for eight
years) and she chose to adopt the hyphenated name 'Elton-Brown' in order to keep her professional name as well as respecting her marriage vows Other positions she has held apart from being MLCs Music Director have been an examiner for year 12 Music History, a member and deputy chairperson of VISE Music Subject Committee and also an adjudicator at various Eisteddfods and school's music competitions In 1987 Mrs Elton-Brown also took up the role of Chairperson of the Board of Studies and in term III was acting Head of Middle School while Mrs Prest was on long service leave This proved to be an interesting experience for her as well as the students! She has also conducted numerous workshops, lectures and seminars all about — you guessed it — music
All of the hard work she has dedicated to her career in teaching music has paid off She now has the authority and reputation to organise major musical events which are nightmarish in their magnitude but also extremely rewarding Two of these have been the MLC chorale tour around England in 1981 and the combined performance of Camberwell Boy's Grammar School and the MLC Concert Choir in 1984 The England tour involved thirty two singers from year 10 to 12, travelling and performing at various venues throughout England For Mrs EltonBrown, the highlight of this trip was the opportunity to conduct in St Pauls Cathedral and Cantebury Cathedral Conducting the combined performance of Carmina Burana in 1984 was a challenge due to the large numbers of people involved in such a complicated work
With all these successes, you may be wondering about any failures that have fallen across Mrs Elton-Brown's path So far, she says, she fortunately has a 'gut reaction' about things that won't work out and therefore has time to make appropriate adjustments or else stop the project altogether
Yet Mrs Elton-Brown does not feel that she has reached the peak of her career For her, life is a series of peaks which are 'of varying heights, of course!" which place one in a constantly changing situation And the constant challenge for Mrs Elton-Brown is to adapt to these changes well enough so as to be able to contribute to them as well She enjoys being in situations which require decisions and plans to be made
But when questioned about the plans for future events of the Music School, Mrs EltonBrown becomes coyly evasive, only saying "You'll have to wait and see!" We can only guess at the meaning of this cryptic comment Is she referring to the spectacular Bicentenary Gala Concert which is to be staged in the Victorian Arts Centre and contains an innovative musical history of Australia's two hundred years as well as some 'scrumptious' surprises from Dreyfus? Or is she hinting at other unforseeable events in the future of which we can only dream?
Who knows? And who knows anything about this woman whom some call the J.R Ewing of the Music School?? Mrs Elton-Brown does have other interests other than music (and they're quite normal too!) Her family comes top of the list with a daughter, a son and a husband to care for She also enjoys cooking, cake decorating, theatre and opera
Jane Elton-Brown will always be a woman whose high standards of perfection have led the MLC Music School into the forefront of Australian musical education
STRING ORCHESTRA
CONCERTINO:
Violin 1: Emma Harvey, Sharon Koch Violin 2: Sarah Bloustein, Natalie Bergen Celli: Juliet Lokan, Rebecca Ruddock
Harpsichord: Susannah Tymms
RIPIENO:
Violin 1: Kathryn Wilke, Kate Gibson, Kate Doyle, Elizabeth Stannard, Angela Nicholas, Som Ling Leung, Carolyn Francis, Melanie Fasham, Amaruka Hazari Violin 2: Melisa Batty, Rebecca Millikan, Gabrielle Knights, Katharine Dawson, Bronwyn Andrew, Lenore Ellet, Patricia Wong Viola: Deirdre Dowling, Claire Barton, Katherine
Thompson Celli: Susannah Leach, Fiona Symons, Kate Bergen, Miriam Wheda, Karen Hall, Anstee Nicholas, Charlotte Dennis, Stella Rodits, Bronwyn Welch, Dianna Bergen
Conductor: Clive McCullough
Joint Leaders: Emma Harvey, Sharon Koch
SENIOR MADRIGALS:
1st Sopranos: Felicity Charret, Jane Corrigan, Athena Greenall, Emma Harvey, Alyson Lockett, Tse Yuen Lui, Linda Pennington, Jane Shelton, Kristina Shugg, Miranda Wills, Helen Winduss
2nd Sopranos: Deirdre Dowling, Catherine Froster, Rosemary Gillan, Kimberley Sleeman, Fleur Smith, Anne Wigglesworth, Kathie Wilkie
1st Altos: Kirsten Badcock, Julia Coldrey, Lucienne Manton, Linda Mileshkin, Amanda Tapp, Ellen Warne, Katherine Wright
2nd Altos: Geneveive Blanchett, Gillian Couttes, Anna Ridgway, Melanie Jacobs, Jane Levin, Catherine McMahon, Anita Parakh, Julia Pryor, Bronwyn Welch
Conductor: Jane Elton-Brown
Leaders: Katherine Wright, Anita Parakh, Jane Shelton
12
Genevieve Blanchett, Year
THE MUSIC SCHOOL.
"Hell
is full of musical amateurs; music is the brandy of the damned" —
As usual, that piece of the college's machinery known as the Music School, came to life at the start of the year with a whirr and a humm as all the cogs, wheels and gears slowly moved into action Auditions were held at the start of the year for the various performing groups of the school These include the concert choir and Senior Madrigal group, conductor, Jane Elton Brown, Concert Orchestra under the joint direction of conductor Henk Van Ernst, and the String Orchestra, conductor, Clive McCullough
These and all other performing groups began preparations for the various performances that were to come The cycle of rehearsals and hard work was re-established
Performances, the culmination of hours of rehearsal and planning, are the pinnacle of the Music School's events
These include Speech Nights, church services and house music competitions
However the major highlight of the Music School's calendar is the annual Gala Concert This year's concert was a dazzling event and a bicentennial tribute as well It was held at the Melbourne Concert Hall, and was planned around the theme"Perspectives of Music in the 19th and 20th centuries" Over 600 performers played and sang to a capacity crowd, who, judging by the applause, thoroughly appreciated the high standard of musicianship that was demonstrated
The staff of the concert hall together with the OLCD and music staff worked together under the direction of Mrs Jane Elton Brown and the Production of Mrs Astrid Wootton to provide an efficiently run as well as musical evening
Though we have large performing groups, there are also smaller chamber sized ensembles such as the Hayden Piano trio and the String Quartet Another successful evening was An Evening of Chamber Music Students used their talent and initiative to present items of a high quality Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of this evening was the Pachelbel Canon, played beautifully and expressively, showing sensitivity, style and musicality The performers, under the guidance of Mrs Marcelle Drummond, played the strains of the canon with warmth and feeling
Students from MLC not only perform at school and in Victoria but also interstate This year, the Senior Madrigal group, touring under the name of the MLC Choral, have been invited to perform at the International Music Education Conference in Canberra We consider it an honour and a chance to perform our style of music in front of what will be a very critical audience It will be an enlightening experience for all involved
Students at MLC also study music as a subject in their senior years Their enthusiasm for their instrument, which can range from singing to saxophone, generally reaps rewards at the end of the year Both teachers and students must be commended for their tireless work in this area
The music school, under the organised, efficient and enthusiastic direction of Mrs Jane Elton Brown, Mr Henk Van Ernst and the others behind the scenes, too numerous to mention, continues to strive for exellence, and achieves it
We've had a rewarding year so far, and the host of hard-working students and teachers will present you with something to remember Anita Parakh, Year 12
CONCERT ORCHESTRA
Violin 1: Emma Harvey, Sharon Koch, Sara Bloustein, Katherine Wilkie, Natalie Bergen, Julie Rankin, Som Ling Leung, Angela Nicholas, Yasako Sakuras, Linda Pennington, Melanie Fasham, Kate Doyle, Elizabeth Stannard, Kate Gibson, Melisa Batty, Carolyn Francis, Amakura Hazari
Violin 2: Melissa Rankin, Rowan Tuttleby, Catherine Svars, Rachel Needoba, Gabrielle Knights, Katherine Dawson, Lenore Ellet, Patricia Wong, Carolynne Baker, Belinda Martin, Lesley Chow, Louisa Oppenheim, Josephine Badger, Bronwyn Andrew, Melissa Perks
Viola: Deirdre Dowling, Anna Stewart, Carolyn Barton, Kathy Thomson
Cello: Rebecca Ruddock, Juliet Lokan, Susannah Leach, Suzanne Knox, Fiona Symons, Kate Bergen, Mariam Wheda, Karen Hall, Charlotte Denis, Anstee Nicholas, Stella Roditis, Yasmin Aly Double Bass:Bronwyn Welch, Kylie Trompf, Dianna Bergen, Lisa Cally, Rebecca Miller
Flute: Julia Caldrey, Jane Levin, Amanda Grigg, Belinda Chin, Katherine Nicholls, Rebecca Doyle, Sally Gardner-Berry, Elissa Ashton-Smith, Sonia Turecek, Helen Pearce, Alyson Lockett, Sarah Whitchurch, Meagan Warrell
Oboe: Rachel Scott, Kylie McCubbing Jennifer Morgan
Clarinet: Linda Mileshkin, Lucienne Manton, Evelyn Halls, Jane Wilhelm, Sally Mapp, Amanda Drury, Haley Smithers, Alexandra Kent
Saxophone: Kylie Doyle, Elizabeth Douglas, Julie Findlay, Amelianne Truscott
Tenor Saxophone: Anita King
Bassoon: Kristina Shugg, Rosemary Chang
George Bernard Shaw
French Horn: Katherine Goodridge, Anne Wigglesworth
Trumpet: Joanne Halls, Catherine Sealey, Ruth Cobden, Katie Gleeson, Claire Barton
Trombone: Perrie Ballantyne, Katrina Simon
Tuba: Katrin Hewitt
Percussion: Allison Summers, Carolyn Mapp
Conductor: Henk Van Ernst
String Tutor: Clive McCullough
Brass Tutor: Robert Burns
Joint Leaders: Emma Harvey, Sharon Koch
THE CONCERT.
House lights dim
Blanketing the chatter
The conductor stands poised
In a moment of silence
The melody takes form
Resonating, circulating, Unconfined, open Gathering momentum
Fortissimo Forte
Cymbals vibrate
Frenetic bowing of strings
The regal asssurance of trumpets
Proclaiming, exalting
Counterbalanced by mellow bassoons
And the rich deep tones of cellos
Lithe bows gliding gracefully across strings
The spritely staccato plucking of violins
Calm returns
Serene, lilting
The fulfillment of desire,
Conveyed by a flowing melody
Dinusha Joseph, Year 11
This year MLC s Communication and Drama Department produced a sound and light spectacular for our bicentennial celebrations The Son et Lumiere originated in Europe and is a performance which appeals both to the sight and hearing It has never before been performed on such a scale as at MLC
Senior OLCD staff member Astrid Wooton and her staff were the creative team behind the event, and started planning back in September 1987
The organisational and technical skills involved were astronomical There were more than 1000 students involved in the actual production, as well as those who worked behind the scenes
More than 400 costumes, ranging from the nineteenth century to the present day, were made for the performance The staging of Son et Lumiere required many kilometres of cabling, hundreds of lights and tonnes of sound equipment It was staged over five consecutive nights at six different points around the school It related the history of MLC as well as incorporating a history of the outside events which have had an effect on the school and its community since the turn of the century
The various sites around the school included the front gardens, which represented the school from 1900 to 1930, and the chapel where the voice of former principal Dr Wood could be heard recalling the days of the 1950s
Although Dr Wood, now 93, is deaf and blind, he was able to remember every aspect of the chapel — from its finest architectural points to the memories of the past it holds for him
Other sites for Son et Lumiere were the school oval, the principals terrace, the Betty Jackson Hall and the Woodgate Centre The Betty Jackson Hall was really an event in itself a moving museum depicting the World War 2 era The roof of the hall was draped with material to give the room the appearance of a parachute, and clouds and planes were projected on to the walls
The inspiration for this particular project came from the MLC magazine of the war era "Blue Bell" The OLCD department also went to great lengths to discover the whereabouts of one Lieutenant Roth He was a front line soldier who received a parcel from the hard working MLC girls Unfortunately, as the OLCD department discovered, Lt Roth was killed in action only 15 days before the armistice was signed
Each group of Son et Lumiere spectators started their journey through history at a different point in the school The history of MLC in sound and light served not only to reflect on the past but to play a major role in shaping the school's future
The performance was symbolic of how the status of women has improved over the decades and how MLC has grown to be " A modern school of the first order, a collegiate institute for girls unsurpassed in the colony "
Sue Dunford
et LUMIERE
ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE
Senior Drama Festival
The Senior School House Drama Festival is a major event of the school year It gives students from all five houses a chance to develop their theatrical skills and also to become involved with students from different year levels
Students are entirely responsible for set and costume design, acting, technicalities and direction with guidance and immense support given by OLCD staff, especially Mrs Donnoli and Miss Francis Large amounts of blood, sweat and tears are spent in the preparation, however the experience proves to be a stimulating and rewarding experience for all involved
This year, many people thoroughly enjoyed the two consecutive evenings and were impressed with the high standard of theatre presented The adjudicator was Ms Suzanne Heywood, a senior lecturer at M.C A.E and National Threatre
On the first night, Fitchett opened the festival with Dylan Thomas' 'The Doctor and the Devils" The cast and crew worked well together and had a very memorable evening This was followed by Cato's "beautifully conceived" play, "The Mutilated" by Tennessee Williams The opening scene was visually stunning and this was supported by strong characterization The first night concluded with Berry's moving "Flowers for Algernon" by David Rogers This piece dealt with sensitive moral issues related to handicapped people and they were conveyed well by several superb performances
The second evening opened strongly with Krome's macabre and savage play "Serapio" by Paul Arvisudamal The entire cast was totally involved in each dramatic moment and so the tension created was immense A relaxing contrast was subsequently provided by Nevile with Tom Stoppard's "The Real Inspector Hound" — an hilarious style of play The actors used their "natural comic elements very effectively" and characterization was excellent
To conclude the festival, Ms Heywood gave a refreshingly brief, yet informative, adjudication and awarded a well deserved first place to Krome House and second place to Berry
As one member of staff remarked," It was a superb drama festival with five winning performances."
Emma Clayton, Year 12
OURHISTORYIN SOUNDANDLIGHT
Photography by Mr Chris Notsis School Photographer
SINK OR SWIM
Annual House Swimming Sports
The House Swimming Sports is the first main competitive sport event of the year The annual sports day was held on Wednesday, 24th February at the State Swimming Centre
With everyone returning from their Christmas holidays all very relaxed, the poor swimming captains were sent straight off to a meeting on the first day back and then straight into swimming and diving trials every lunchtime With only a few weeks to organise teams, the captains found that there just weren't enough hours in the day
However, the day of the Swimming Sports was a very competitive and enjoyable one The day started off very early for the Captains with a supposed B.B.Q breakfast on the banks of the Yarra, but there were no B.B.Q's or meat so it was just Co-Co Pops in cups with milk and turtle cakes After breakfast we all moved inside the Swimming Centre and did the traditional thing of decorating the stands in all of the house colours, consisting of yellow, green, blue, pink and purple
The competitors and spectators arrived and the excitement and tension began to build The first event was at 10.00am and this started a great day of competition and excitement The sports were run extremely well with the help of all our sports teachers, house officials, and the house mistresses/ masters
Throughout the day we also had some spectacular displays of diving Towards the end of the day everyones' eyes were on the scoreboard, and the pressure was on the swimmers knowing that every point counted The work which the captains, competitors and officials put in was rewarded by a truly successful day
The Final results were: Proficiency: Berry Junior School Trophy : Cato Middle School Trophy : Neville Senior School Trophy : Berry
Aggregate Points Trophy :
1 Fitchett 939 points Captain : Amanda Dux
2 Berry 919 points Captain : Suzanne Cole
3 Krome 915 points Captain : Lisa Eno
4 Cato 905 points Captain : Mandi Robertson
5 Neville 859 points Captain : Danielle Whitmore
On February 24, 1988, hundreds of brightly coloured MLC girls squeezed themselves into the steamy depths of the State Swimming Centre, some equipped with bathers, towels and caps, while others brought along their Walkmans and TV Weeks, and for the more mature reader, the latest edition of Cleo (No one brought their Silver and Green )
While future Olympic champions swam their hearts out for their houses, the cheering was superb This year, the frogs led the way with the Krome cheer-leading squad, but a touch of the 80's was added by Cato The cato rap squad bopped their way into the judges hearts but Berry managed to overtake them and win the proficiency cup
With luke-warm pies un their hands, everyone was fortunate to watch the spectacular diving of Rebecca Sleeth The atmosphere was electric as she rose, level by level, to the nine meter board
With a twist here and a pike there, she managed to enrapture the whole audience As the day pressed on, the Fitchett swimmers managed to swim their way to victory by winning both JSS and SS cups, as well as the aggregate prize The Lion roars on!
Kara Tong and Melissa Fleming
Every year, since Year 8,1 have pleaded with my parents to let me stay home on the day of the swimming sports, but every year the response is the same-'No!"
And so, on the morning of Wednesday, February 24th, for the fifth year in a row, I dragged myself out of bed, for six hours of boredom, stifling heat, and the nauseating smell of 2,000 girls and teachers in a tiny chlorinated hall, all intent on drowning each other out in the effort to win proficiency
There are a few things I have learnt to take with me to the sports: a large bottle of drink, plenty of cotton wool and a good book to read in the changing rooms These I deem essential for the preservation of my sanity
This year, the sports started off well enough with a visit to the changing rooms for a sleep
I've also discovered over the years that it is a great help for a very bored person to be on good terms with as many teachers as possible because they must all take their turns at guarding the exit doors This is the only hope one has of getting a breath of fresh air, and as often as not, the teachers are as bored silly as you are and don't mind talking
Despite the noise, I settled down in a back corner near the diving pool, and managed to finish off quite a bit of homework The day was quite a success, actually, as I met and talked to one of the maintenance men who worked at the State Swimming Centre, and who turned out to be a Frenchman Anon
"Swimming Sports" What do those two words mean to you? To me the sports were always a boring compulsory day spent eating chocolate and listening to my Walkman — usually sitting on the other side of the diving pool, as far away from the noise as possible At the end of the day all I had was a headache from the screams and stuffy air So I decided that this year I would be different; I'd swim! I turned up to a few tryouts and practices, feeling pretty darn sporty in my speedos It had been so long since I'd last swam that they had to reteach me how to dive Anyway they were desperate for people, so I made the team
Finally the big day came The pool looked sooo long How was I meant to make it to the other end? But before I could figure that out "BANG!" the gun went off and away I swam I couldn't see much but I came a close second It was an ace feeling to really do that Next time your Swimming Captain gets up in House Assembly to beg for swimmers, at least try out — it's not as bad as you think
u L J
GOODBYE
Mrs. DALE
GOOD LUCK
The Junior School has had a busy year In the first half of the year alone, $60.00 was raised for Bodalla Nursing Home, an Easter Hat Parade took place, the prefects have had a party with the girls, and the Annual Sports have taken place Plans for the second half of the year include involvement in the Gala Concert and a Grade 4s and 5s camp to the Grampians
The Junior School is somewhat of a separate entity in MLC despite attempts to make it less so Mrs Dale comments:
"What is good for the Senior School is not necessarily right for the Junior School"
Mrs Dale is pleased at the interaction between both school sections as the prefects spoke to the girls at the beginning of the year, and Year Eleven and Twelve girls do OLCD options and assignments in the Junior School
THE GRAMPIANS
During the grade 4/5 camp to the Grampians, all the girls climbed up Mt Picaninny which is at the south end of the Grampians These are thoughts on the view from the top of Mt Picaninny
We saw lots of native bushes and flowers and trees We saw a bit of South Australia and we saw Mt Abrupt and Mt Sturgeon We saw a bit of Dunkeld We saw very few animals and we saw our camp and a lake
BIANCA LEE
GRADE 4/5 FL
When we were climbing up Mt Picaninny we felt prickly flowers and saw emu droppings When we were up on the top we saw trees and farmlands, cows, sheep and a dam They were far away There was a lot of grass We could see our camp roof and a lot of mountains and a school
AMY TIDD
GRADE 4/5 FL
We saw lots of houses with brown tops We didn't see many other types of buildings We saw brown, green and yellow paddocks We saw Mt Abrupt and Mt Sturgeon We didn't see any transport, it was too small We saw plain land with nothing on it We saw the dam and the horizon far away
LILLIAN CHEONG
GRADE 4/5 FL
The Junior School girls use the swimming pool and gymnasium, and other resources of the Senior School, as well as enjoying taking the lunch-orders to the tuckshop every day " They pick flowers, knock on doors and go the longest way around" when they take the lunch-orders through, despite orders to go by the shortest route
Mrs Dale retires at the end of 1988, at the end of her eleventh year Upon being asked what had changed in the time that she had been there, she said physical changes, which have been many, with the building of the JS Assembly Hall, the Library, the Staffroom and Administration offices Class structure has been changed, with a "deliberate attempt" to make classes smaller, as well as the introduction of computer studies, and an expanded language curriculum Looking to the future, Mrs Dale says,
"My main area of concern is the playground and environment around the school." Plans have been made and approved by the council, and the new playground will soon be completed
"Once that's done, I'll say 'What a wonderful playing area'" And looking to the past once more, "Yes, I will miss the children when I'm gone."
Martha Howard
Autumn Leaves
I love to crunch among the leaves Every single day, I love to collect autumn leaves
With colours bright and gay, Can you hear the leaves, Crunching under my feet
Koalas
Koalas are funny and fantastic They live in a tree, but one thing about koalas is, They always stare at ME!!!!!
Charity Chmielewski Grade 4C
by /-Uanda C^c
As I slip merrily
Down the leaf covered street
Marisa Nathar, Grade 5
Why crabs live in shells
Once there was a mermaid All mermaids should like the sea but this mermaid was unusual because this mermaid liked nothing about the sea except crabs All the crabs hated getting caught by the mermaid but there was a very smart crab, it never got caught because it had a secret One day nearly all the crabs had been caught The smart crab told the other crabs his secret The secret is that if you hide in an empty shell the mermaid will not find you That is the legend of why the little crab hides in an empty shell Anne Beilby 3D
5W gronu/n H^ck
On Autumn
Leaves flutter down from the midst of trees
While birds fly past in the cool autumn breeze
Sparks flying from a fireplace flaming high
While winds blow from the dark skys
Heating is needed for these cold Autumn nights
Now needed too are bright street lights
Kicking leaves along the foot path
Ready for a hot autumn bath
Lightning bolts from the clear frosted air
The summer days are no longer there
Claire Murray, Grade 5
THE OTHER FROG PRINCE
Reginald was a frog, a big, fat frog was he He went to the palace one day, the Princess he did see It was love at first sight, the day that they first met He felt like he was Romeo, and she was Juliet he was madly in love, He wanted to propose, but he stopped and thought a minute as she had a great, big nose
He told her the story of the Frog Prince they thought they would give it one chance They puckered up and then — 'SMACK!'— It didn't work, so she gave him a whack
She whacked him so hard that froggie did squash, 'Oh no!" cried the Princess, "Not another pavement to wash!!"
Catherine Brain,Grade 5W
A Wish
FOR MY SCHOOL.
To grow nice and clever girls
That everyone passes VCE
To be the best school
That MLC stays around for a long time
More playgrounds for Junior School
No Recorder
I would like a swing
That it goes on for years and years
That it will do well and stay open for a long time
For it to be looked after
FOR MY COUNTRY
To have peace
That there won't be any droughts
No more rainforests cut down
That the Australian dollar will stay strong
That they would be more careful about drugs
Cut down on pollution
Not to have to worry about being burgled
That people stop smoking
Not to be active in a war
FOR THE WORLD
That nobody would go hungry
To have peace forever
No accidents
No bombs
No more wars-please!!!
I wish the world would stop fighting
To be happy
FOR MY FAMILY.
To have my name back
Autumn
Autumn is a happy time
Although it's dark and cold
Leaves and berries bright and blooming
Colour in a mould
Leaves are fluttering all around
To crunch for you and me, Yes, autumn is a happy time
As pretty as can be
Erica Abbot, Grade 5
Everyone goes to school to work, For they all want to be a clerk, No one noticed anyway, How important it is to play, They got squashed by all the mobbers, And didn't know how to play cops and robbers
Helen Thomas, Grade 5
That they will all be healthy and stay together
To have our dog Nelson back
That all of us, Arthur the dog as well, have long lives
To get a car for Mum
That we could go to America again
I hope my family doesn't have to work hard
I wish we could get up in the morning
For all to live safely
That they didn't have to pay taxes
To have no finance problems
FOR MYSELF
That I could go around the world and visit all the stars
To become a judge
That I live to see Halley's Comet again
To pass my VCE
To have 100000,00000,000 tonnes of lollies
To have a puppy
To win the Early Bird Show
To become a vet and live on a farm
That I had a horse
Lots of money
That my grandpa in America was alive
That I was very good at gym
To go to England to visit my best friend
A wishing charm
To be kind
of
THE BOARDING HOUSE
let the truth beknown!
It is difficult for an outsider not to form a preconceived notion of what life in a boarding house is like This idea may result from reading nineteenth century English novels in which young girls were sent away to cold, prison-like buildings, fed on stale bread and cheese and severely punished if they so much as sneezed without permission In contrast, some individuals have based their ideas on twentieth century American movies, in which boarding house life is displayed as being far from restrictive and dull In actual fact, neither of these extremes accurately reflect the life of a boader at MLC
Despite a general misconception and lack of knowledge regarding the boarding house, the boarders do form a part of the school without which MLC would be incomplete Boarding is a rewarding experience even though at times it seems the worst thing on earth ( particularly around meal and bed times! ) It is a period in our lives that we shall never forget — the unique friendships formed in our time at the MLC Boarding House will also remain firm in our memories
1988 has been a year of change in the boarding house in more ways than one We have said "goodbye' to several staff members and subsequently, "hello" to many new faces
We have also changed cooks ( a move greatly appreciated by all boaders ) and many more priveliges have been granted
Earlier in the year a Country Fair was held and, more recently, the Boaders' Birthday Night was held This was a rather 'interesting' concert which included such thespian wonders as a King and Queen of the boarding house competition These illustrious awards were received by Vera Turnbull and Rose Smith
Both of these activities were successful and enjoyed by all boaders — especially the edible aspect
Nicole Cornish, Year 12
Boarders' Birthday Bash
Yet again, "Boarders' Birthday Night" proved one of the main events on the boarding school calendar We were served a scrumptious three course meal by the "amateur actor and actresses' of the boarding house staff! — their theme, "Tricentennial"!
Mr Loader, as Captain Cook, and Mrs Lindros, a convict, presented us with a melodramatic skit before serving us with dinner
Boarders' Fete '88
This year, the "Boarders' Fete" was held in Term 1 As usual, preparation began a week before, the long weekend allowing us to bring back country produce like jams, sauces, cakes, gift cards, "smelling sachets", tissue boxes, hangers and a variety of "toilet accessories" The staffroom was flooded with food brought from home and as the big day drew closer, more food was delivered by boarders' parents The day of the fete began with an aura of excitement and enthusiasm Before sunrise, boarders were to be found in the kitchen making quiches and sausage rolls and buttering bread Others were busy writing up signs and pricing goods Of course, some were still in bed!!
The front garden was soon opened to the customers All stalls and activities were controlled by different year levels The Year 12s had a doughnut stall "Devonshire teas" and "Boarding House Tours" were carried out by Year lis "Car-washing", and cakes were sold by the year 10s and the country produce stall was organised by the Year 9s Years 6, 7, and 8 served at stalls selling lollies, fruit salad and drinks
The fete was successful despite the amount of food left over
We managed to hold some stalls at lunchtime the following days We used the money raised to update our commonrooms!
The dining room was well decorated with Australian posters, trees, parachutes hanging from the ceiling, coloured balloons In addition each person received five different coloured napkins, (we wondered about our table manners then!)
At 8pm we trudged to the Assembly Hall to meet our invited guests There we performed our hastily prepared skits The acts included a night in the boarding house, songs and dances, and the outstanding performance of the year twelves "talentfashion parade"!
Following the concert we enjoyed a hearty supper in the diningroom The
boarding house was later bombarded with the happy chattering of boarders, as they showed their visitors around
Stories of our past experiences were cautiously related to some guests
Finally, the day drew to an end and the crowd dispersed Exhausted boarders headed for beds — sleepily exchanging news about the festive night Others, congregated in the classroom; tucked in their dressing gowns holding cups of nice, hot tea and cofee Some were curled up in the bean bags, watching television; whilst others simply lay, slumped, on the floor
AndHesaid unto me; 6Write: forthese words are true and faithful' —Revelation
Heavenly
It was difficult to describe One minute 1 was sitting in the back garden, surrounded by bunches of daffodils and warm sunshine, and in the next 1found myself shooting up to the sky I remember passing clouds and later stars, but it looked like my crazy journey wasn't going to end 1imagined what it could be like travelling up and up for years, only stopping when I got to the end (if there was one), then gliding down for another century But the very thought made me shiver Moments later my prayer was answered With a bump, I landed on something hard and shiny, though I was too dazed to tell what it was After lying down for a while I recovered and managed to look ahead of me Right in front were two large, white, iron gates surrounded by several clouds
Suddenly I knew where I was Heaven! and these were the pearly gates But something seemed a little strange; there was barbed wire on top and a large sign saying BEWARE OF THE FOG The next thing that happened was even more weird! A man appeared at the top of the gate and yelled down at me "Hey man, what are you doing with my tape recorder?" He was dressed in a denim jacket, tight jeans and moccasins and his hair (what was left of it) was brightly coloured That was when I realised what I'd been sitting on I threw it up to him and waited for a reply "Thanks," he said, "come on in, but remember to observe the sign!" I went through the gates that had miraculously been opened, and realised what he was talking about Instead of the soft, misty clouds I'd expected when we entered there was a thick grey fog I couldn't talk or breathe at all! It felt like I was being pulled under water A faint cry of "Keep going" reached my ears and that's what I did
Finally the fog let me through and I fell down, a choking, dishevelled mess "Hey, kid," the man said, "you'll have to get used to it if you're the new arrival." "What on earth does he mean?" I thought to myself "I'm not dead yet!" I received similar greetings as I followed the man down a white path, littered with silver stars and (I hate to say) rubbish "That must be the new one" and "Funny, I thought he was older," were some of the things said The people were dressed in clothes like the man I was following They were carrying walkmans, walkie-talkies and even miniature televisions "This place is weird!" I yelled to the man "I thought heaven was meant to be serene, old fashioned and peaceful, with angels standing around, blowing bugles!" He turned and waited for me to catch up before laughing uproariously and saying, "No way, kid! People got sick of that years ago, especially the angels, who had to keep sewing their hemlines which were pulled down at discos." He paused, then continued, "You'll find we are just as modern up here, except maybe for the clothes, even I have to admit moccasins aren't very trendy." We both grinned then walked in silence before I could muster up the courage to ask,
"Could you please tell me where we are going?" "Sure," he said, "to the chief's place."
Approximately five minutes later we encountered a huge mansion Large white posts with wings were dotted around it and I counted one Rolls Royce, two Jaguars and three Mercedes in the driveway "Wow!" I thought out loud, "This place is cool!" We were greeted at the door by an ancient butler who asked us to please follow him The house interiors were completely black, white and grey Everything looked fabulous! Soon we arrived in a room which was completely white: the floor, ceiling, carpet and furniture, including the sofa which had a middle aged person slung across it reading the "Bulletin" "So ., " I realised, "this is God!"
She was dressed in white jeans, white Tshirt and moccasins, with black shades perched on top of her head She jumped up to welcome me and said, "G'day, Hi, Bonjour, Guten tag," etc all at once "I'm sorry," God continued, "I've forgotten what country you are from!" "Australia," I said "Oh," fell apologetically from her mouth, "I'll remember that next time." I then nervously asked why I was here and she said, "You see, up here we use highly technical equipment to go down to earth and bring back the good, dead people But one of them was broken when the devil and I had a fight, so that's how you came to be here." "Who was meant to come up?" I asked "Your murdered next door neighbour but don't worry, we'll have you down as soon as possible." She then asked if I'd like a drink of Milo I said yes and the butler went to fetch it Over afternoon tea we discussed everything from parties to politics God was very interested in the state of the world She told me that once people arrived at heaven the only recollection they had of the outside world was from magazines, etc they happened to have with them when they died "It's terrible," she said, "the only fashion magazine we have is two years out of date." I gave her some pointers on what was now trendy
When we had finished I was wired to her recently mended computer I said goodbye to the man and butler, with a special thanks to God before I found myself retreating back down to earth "Well," I thought out loud, "thinking about death won't ever be the same again!"
Caitlin Evans, 7C
Why fire fears water
There was once a fire goddess called Surasia who was wicked and evil Nothing could overpower her and if anything tried, it would be burnt
Many Gods and Goddesses worried over this matter They knew if nothing was done, she would soon burn up the world with pleasure They decided to hold a meeting hoping they could find a way to stop her
All the Gods and goddesses were gathered in a large room The tree goddess, Nastursia, stood up first complaining that many of her trees had been burnt down Many other gods complained and in the end they decided they would invent a new god It ended up being a goddess, the goddess of water They named her Rivaliar
This was the goddess that had to face the powerful, evil Surasia The battle was endless Day and night they fought and tried to outwit each other Then one day, Surasia fell ill Most of her flame died out and she felt weak
The water had hit directly at her heart and put it out She begged for mercy, and in the end, the gods relented and allowed her to recover
Since then, fire has feared water although many times trying to take revenge
Wendy Wu 7C
The damp matted grass glistened like water in the moonlight and the trees swayed in time with the icy breeze Everything was deadly silent The frosted window masked the view like a frame, enclosing a picture of tranquility amid the folds of curtains I stared out silently not wanting to move in case I disturbed the peacefulness of my view Everything seemed so beautiful at dawn, so peaceful and new
The breeze gently lifted leaves making them dance in circles, like children at a party; wild and excited, tossing and turning until they settled in the distance The morning mist was slowly rising revealing the emergence of small animals fresh from sleep, creeping about the undergrowth in search of food and twitching their tiny ears and noses as they went Birds embraced the morning in fine voice, serenading the new day with joyful songs and summoning the world to wake
The sun's rays began to creep through the trees like long fingers painting the woods in a golden glow of warmth, absorbing the mist and slowly finding its way to my window, its heat drinking the frost from the glass and touching and warming my skin
The world had come to life A new day had begun
Jane Morton 11
Dreams
Sitting in the darkness alone as it may seem, I'm not really by myself I've still got my dream
The dream that's always been there, through thickness, light and day, will be there when I need it to come and take me away
It'll take me away from smoke and take me away from drink, things that I don't need in my life But others still don't think —
They miss out on what I've seen, the feelings that I've shared They can't say that they love anyone Because they never cared
But dreams are things that never go they take you on your road with a silver light at the end, they help to carry your load
Kathie Steel, Year 12
Awaken the Morn
The grass stretched out as far as the eye could see, like an emerald carpet it glistened in glee
Its beauty shone like a glimmering dress, its touch as soft as a lovers caress Apple blossoms lined its side, there they stood natures pride Its soft petals flittered down by the seven just like tiny snow flakes down from heaven
The sunlight peeked cheekily through the boughs, chinks of light were everywhere about Their branches entwined just like lovers its beauty though it never covers Its tranquility is food for the eyes, and through its purity it can never tell lies Through its charm you can see the loveliness that awakening brings to thee Tamara Steele 7
"YOU SLACKER"
\
"You slacker!" said my mother, "You're lazy!" said my dad, "You've messed around for all the year and now your marks are bad." "You can't realise what we're paying, you've no concept what we've done And now I hear you saying, At least I had some fun'!"
I worked all the holidays, I planned in every way, I returned with resolutions to study every day, I slaved away my Sundays I worked into the nights I did neat, concise assignments to put these scores to rights
But soon I grew dejected I put assignments off And then on topic test days I got this awful cough
My pracs were never early My notes were out of date I went to someone's party, I came home very late
A year flew by so quickly exams were coming soon
The tests were on, all hope was gone, for pass, I prayed the moon I knew before I got them what I should have done
If I'd studied harder
I knew I could have won
"Lord help us!" cried my mother "What is this?" said my pop, "You're almost year 11, this shambles has to stop!"
"But my teachers were all hopeless, the test just wasn't fair
We had no time to study " My mind replied "Oh, yeh?"
Rachael Peterson 10L
Australia
Once Upon a Time
The cobwebs of time have not completely hidden the fairytale land of Once Upon a Time
Its memory still lingers on, in the mind of young and old
Those who can remember and learnt what those words unleash
For some, it brings them to the days of witches and wizards of enchanted castles and of spells and charms To others, it brings the joy of love, of romance of the old and young To them, that circle never subsides in the mind's eye
So just a message if you have forgotten, dust away the cobwebs of Time, and unleash, into your hearts again, the joys of Once Upon a Time
Tamara Searle Year 7
Australia is a nation of hills, gullies and streams, and the outback drover whose face often beams
The nation sundrenched, with sea and sand, and of the typical Aussie bush band
Australia is a land of tall cities and towns, and the city slicker whose face often frowns
The land of pollution, dirt and trash, and of the normal road smash
Australia is a nation of whites who rule the way, it was 200 years ago and hasn't changed to this day
The land of discrimination and of the drunk, and of the bottles and cans dropped — Clunk, Clunk, Clunk
Australia is a nation of koalas and kangaroos, visit them in the country when you've got the blues
The land of golden wattles and gumtrees high, and the galahs in the bright blue sky
Australia is a nation of sportsmen and women, the people who's whole life to sport is given
The land of gold medals and Brownlow's, me myself I'll stick to messing with the fellows
Kathryn Gawthorn
Darker Side of Life
Dewdrops glisten in the morning sun,
The chirping of birds shelters the silence, The bush seems alive with the freshness, Of a crisp, New day
I rejoice in the sea of life
Then suddenly,
A gun-blast echoes, Through the walking hills I start,
And turn towards the sky, Where a flock of birds are flying high
But, then a majestic bird
Starts to tumble, Down,
Towards the ground
A Sound, Yes,
The sound of laughter, Drifts through the trees
The baying of a faithful dog, Excited at collecting the game
Then,
A shout, "Gees mate! Isn't this fun!!!?"
No care has he,
That the bird may be
An endangered species, So rare
As I write this
The world rushes by
In a blur of pain and sorrow
I attempt to grasp some
But it's already gone, Oh,
Into the depths of the past
Michelle Francis, Year 7
POETRY
Earlv Snow on the River
Tenth century scroll; "Early Snow on the River,"
One thousand ancient years ago in the chill of a Chinese winter
Skillfully, fishermen pick their way among tall reeds, through the dim light of the early snow
The waters faintly glazed, gliding towards morning, one thousand years ago
A fisherman clings to the fish spear tightly to squeeze the warmth from it; Slowly he begins to raise his head, with the effort of straining to move through the golden honey of the many years of Summer, Winter —
One thousand years — slowly he raises his head towards me
My breath I leave and sink downwards; Down the well to that river underneath, from long ago, to find his gaze
My heart, my soul — you capture it truly, it belongs to your amber eyes It's cold!
In an instant I am there in a Real world — and here is a cold and hungry man, desperately grasping the gnarled, brittle wood, his fingers fixed to it
A Shout — his body jolts to a sharp attack — a reflex, survival, and the fish struggles on this fisherman's canoe
Relief; a rush of breath through his awkward frame
He has in this fish, survived just one more day — It will give him life, for one more day; Relief
Is this a poem?
Is this a poem ?
Has it a rhyme, Metre, image Rhythm, time ?
Alliteration, similes ?
Is it a poem without these ?
Does it mention flowers in the spring, Sunlit fields where cowbells ring ?
I cannot find them as none it's got, Thus a poem this is not!
Rebecca Patterson, Year 12
But relief rolls into sorrow; for there is still
tomorrow - how then will he live?
Humbly he must acknowledge the Cold, the Hunger, the Pain —
he has gained himself one day, One day out of eternity — It is nothing
And now he must clasp the spear again, urgently, holding onto this splinter — his life
You reach to me with your forlorn eyes; My soul is breaking for your struggle, draining away, to you
But at once a dark, monstrous shadow hides your face from me -
Vulture?
What no!! Ha! It is just a fly! Only a fly here on the paper And here, I
Quickly, kill it before it flies away With what?
A rolled up paper But Little black fly
Familiar Fly — No
You are not to die, Why, you
You are here with me; Kinsman, Brother in Time, Life of the present — my present and yours
How could such a soulmate be killed by my hand?
Together we are, And alive!
One thousand years ago, this day was of death Today we are alive We are! We are! We are now, Fly!
Tatyana Rodda
Year 11
Wind
The wind is a magician— we cannot see but we believe
The wind is like a devil to torment the souls of all caught in it
The wind is a blessing to cool the harsh, dry earth
The wind is a whisper in my ear, a cruel storm; a lonely chill
But always— the wind is a secret, mysterious in all her ways
Emma Kowell, Year 8
Time
Time rules over us, always
Like puppets on strings, to look at a clock is to panic
But the sun will still shine, and the stars will still twinkle, and the wind will still howl, whatever the time
Emma Kowal, Year 8
Sea Lament
I walk along the seashore on a cold and windy day,
The deep blue bath of foaming water on a cold and windy day
The porpoises are playing in the vast and choppy sea on a cold and windy day,
The sand which was before me was tossed and turned like a sleepless night on a cold and windy day,
And I watch a small sailing vessel get thrown hopelessly on a cold and windy day
My friend, my enemy, my happiness, my sadness and my loneliness at the beach on a cold and windy day
Rebekah Fitzgerald
I REALLY SAW THE PANDAS
His eyes are hidden deep within the dark fur that surrounds his eyes, his sorrowful eyes
Lonely
He lopes up and down the edge of his confine then stops, and inclines his head gently
He brushes a soft paw past his ear
The people laugh — "Isn't that adorable?"
He turns towards the noise, then meanders away
I've never seen a panda smile
The back concrete wall is cool
He flops down and rests his back and tucks his head to his chest, covering it with his paws, -it makes me sad to watch
Though the people laugh — "Isn't that sweet?"
He peers out at them, from under his dusty arm
A little black eye, confused and miserable staring at the jovial faces
The people laugh — "Isn't that cute?"
He turns away and tries to melt into the wall
I've never seen a panda smile
Kirrily Weber, Year 10
Counting Yellow ITCOMES, THE STORM
How quaint
A pale boy is counting Cars that scream and hurtle down strips of black tar
His small, tightly laced feet rest on three bricks, And his moist, gleaming eyes sparkle when unexpected treasures such as Bright red porches, or silver mercedes Speed past the corner, increasing his pleasure
Sitting in the coffee shop opposite his kerb
I wonder if this young, pale child saw the fatal accident which, On this corner, claimed three lives
A brick found in the shattered window of one car
Was the reason the car swerved, careering out of control
Sipping, wondering A loud crash freezes my moves Screams and wails fill the air and people flock and stare at panic
Confusion
Another collision Seven deaths Muttering and weeping
And in the corner, on the kerb, a young pale boy watches intently
Smirking
Proud And his tightly laced feet rest on two bricks
Lisa Waldron 12
I Hate Him Because . . .
I hate him because he's so stubborn like my father,
But then
he's not like anyone else
I hate him because he's single minded and pig headed
But then when he's proved wrong he'll concede the point
(but you must have irrefutable proof)
I hate him because he's crude and foul minded; sometimes
But then he can be so charming
I hate him because he holds me up for ridicule to others
But then he'll always give me a laugh and say sorry
I hate him because he's stronger than me and uses this to gain superiority
But then in
anything else he'll be my equal
I hate him because he makes me get all tangled up and confused inside
But then he's so sure of himself
And because I love him I forgive him all these faults
But then he is my friend
KATE GIBSON Year 11
The warning of a sallow and cowardly sunset Making its careful departure, The light of the night, Tired eyes
Sad lizards stuck on young wood, Jaundice, Yellow fever, Yellow streak
No rain in sight, An eternal desert, A bruise under your skin, A burn
A colour in a distinct rainbow, A primary colour
Sensational and bright, An abundance of daffodils
Bananas, lemons, Custard, Hair,
Yellow is always there
Keshena Stewart Year 11
MATHS TEST
Your head is bent over your work, Your mind is muddles full of murk, What's 7+7, Oh I don't know, I knew my mark would be low You start again, Maths is a pain, I wish I could fall through the floor I'm running out of time
Oh I wish this poem would rhyme, And at last I'm finished the test I hand it in, It's thrown in the bin
Because it was far too messy, This is my third time round, And without a sound, I start the whole thing again This time it's neat, I jump out of my seat, And run to the teacher's desk, I got it all wrong, And it took so long, But I didn't have to start again, My mark was put down, What is a noun?
For now we have an English test
Suzie Davies Grade 6
CAN YOU IMAGINE?
Imagine, Imagine, Imagine, a dragon very far away, who will go to your house one day to stay, and he will tell you if you pay: "There are big dragons, and little dragons
There are wise ones too who never have to go to the loo I'm that kind of dragon, I really do confess, that all my time in dragon world I've never made a mess."
Katherine Gilbert and Kerrie Hicks
It creeps upon the perfect day, Veiling its brilliant blue backdrop, its sunny parks of fun and leisure, its harmony of feathered voices singing; Veiling it with a heavy blanket; damp and thick a nervous silence a waiting an invisible tension suspended in the coming grey
It comes, the storm
Gradually it builds; overwhelms; Envelops you in its stillness, Gripping the nerves — stiff and tense they become
Constricting the mind — trapped and stricken
All is wrapped in its turbulence, Its growing fire, Its concerned point of energy
It comes, the storm; And you tremble, Tremble at its focus, Tremble at its anxiety, at its nearness, at the time that ticks as it mounts
It comes, the storm; then it breaks It pours, and pours, heavy, the rain falls
Beating the ground; It wets your cheeks, It streams down valleys forming rivulets, lakes
And here you flow, too Into warm waters, hot melting waters That soften the nerves — tight and taught revive the mind — narrow and numb cool waters; fresh, nourishing waters
That green the parks brighten the sky quench the throats
It comes, the storm; and goes
Leaving the perfect day of brilliant blue of sunny parks of the harmony of feathered voices singing Angelina Lee, Year 11
Stallion Riding
A triumphant neigh rang out,
The valley was still with anticipation, The thud of hooves drew close, And the smaller animals scurried away, A black stallion was silhouetted against the blazing sunset,
The stallion reared and plunged in his enjoyment of life,
He was the ruler of a land of peace, Only man could destroy that which should forever be undisturbed,
The stallion celebrated the glory of freedom in his dance of praise,
The freedom to gallop among the mountains that made his powerful body minute, And among the trees that represented life itself
T.E.H 11H
Let's Celebrate
Let's make it great, In the year '88
Let's have peace and not war
And fun galore
Give a smile and a cheer, 'That we're glad to be here,'
Let's all celebrate, In the year '88
Cathy Manos, Year 7C
SAVAG E
An Interview With Mark Savage
The New Head Of MLC's Art Department
Q Why art for your career?
A I've always loved art I like talking about it and I've always wanted to be a painter I find teaching fulfilling— it also helps to keep a roof over my head I think that Australians could become a lot more culturally aware of the creative side of the human spirit — we don't foster it enough That's why I love teaching art Ultimately, I want to paint
Q What sort of painting are you doing at the moment?
A I've done a few paintings for exhibitions and group shows, but it's very difficult to devote the time that art demands I need plenty of time to paint, so that is mainly done during the holidays 1 manage to draw during term time
Recently, I've been doing canvasses that reflect the horror of the world (Does that sound melodramatic? ) For instance, I've done a few paintings based on the impact of the Bopal gas disaster in India which killed over 2500 people with a gas leak I've also done a few paintings based on the war between Iran and Iraq It's just a humanist's view of what we're doing to the planet
Q Having been at MLC only for a short time, what are your impressions?
A I'm very impressed with the professionalism of my colleagues and the majority of students I teach Everyone is enthusiastic, fair-minded, open to new suggestions and reasonably self-motivated I'm still very much an observer
Q The big question: have you any criticisms?
A No, I've only been here for five weeks, and 1reserve the right to silence The only small thing is that there's over two hundred teachers in the school and it's impossible for me to get to know them all Similarly, they're not going to get to know me
Q Any future projects for MLC ?
A I'm enjoying the facilities the College has to offer, and I'd really like to see us offering to do some murals around the school and adding to the aesthetic environment
Whether the school is going to be open to us decorating a whole wall or not
I'm also looking at a mural project for the Bicentenary, so I'm walking around trying to locate a wall that could use some beautifying
Q Enough "heavy" questions What other interests do you have?
A I enjoy playing volleyball, gardening and listening to music: anything from rock 'n' roll to classical I read mainly historical fiction Actually, I've got a list of people in history I would really like to have met, and I'm in the process of doing some paintings of me meeting Arthur Miller, Cleopatra Cleopatra's sitting there having a cup of wine, surrounded by Roman soldiers, and there's me sitting in the background
Q Is there anything else you would like to say?
A I love watching my son grow I could be really coarse and talk about the abstract expressionism of his nappies, but I wouldn't dare
Jane Wilhelm and Eleanor Whyte
KATE RADFORD Year II
ROBYN AMBROSE Year 12
TANYA DUNCAN Year 10
YEAR 12
PHOTOGRAPHS
KATHRYN
VANESSA
KATE COATH
zAiJiAr*
CARRIE DEUTSCH
CATHERINE
KYLIE
MARY GRAMMATOGLO U Has anyone seen my mug?
MELISSA GUTHRIE I want a jelly-coated bunter! Haw!
JENNY HEATHERSHA W Tequila! There's no substitute
MARTHA HOWAR D I don't believe in prefects MARGARE T HOWIE You are entitled to your opinion as long as it is the same as mine! AMBERLEE HUGGINS I'm applying for a job a part-time mechanic KYLIE HUITT Why do I always get the blame?
LEILA HINDI Ha Ha Ha
JUSTINE JACOBI Sweet Art AMAND A GR1GG I can't I'm grounded
VALETE
SAYOAARA
KIRSTIE
MELISSA
JACKIE HEA D
JENNY HWANG
Libby my man!
LIZ JOHNSTON
whinger
SUSAN HONSON
EMMA HARVEY
MICHELLE HARVEY
JENNY KHAW
FAREWELL
AUREVOIR
SAYOMRA
DIANNE RUSSELL
LOUISE SCHWARZ
MANDI ROBERTSON
ALISON STEVENS I LOVE MY KNIVES!! MELINDA STOREY If you need me, I'll be in the gym MICHELLE STUART OHAYOO
LINDY-JANE
FAREWELL
VALETE
SWOWK A
VERONICA TURNBULL -VERA!
SOH HOON TEO
VICKI WILSON
CATHERINE WRIGHT TANYA YOUNG
NICOLE WILLIAMSON
AUTOGRAPHS
View from Boarding House roof