The Star - November 2021

Registered by Australia Post Publication No. VBQ 6695.

Volume 35 No.2 November 2021

Unmatched Opportunity From two dedicated Education Outdoors campuses to our incredible lunchtime clubs, this issue takes a closer look at the world of choice for MLC students.

Cover story Students from Years 5 to 8 experience our remote Education Outdoors site, MLC Banksia. Pictured: Year 7 students explore the Gippsland Lakes.

In this issue

Editorial committee Communications Co-ordinator, Cecilia Ip Director of Advancement, Sue Felton Alumnae Relations Co-ordinator, Nikki Mackay Digital Content Producer, Eliza Brockwell Cathy Wever, Content Empire Angie Phelan, Content Empire

From the Principal

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Join the club

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MLC’s extensive range of student clubs

Distribution

Arts at MLC

A digital copy of The Star is available at mlc.vic.edu.au/thestar. To change how you receive The Star (digital or post) please complete our online form using the QR code below, or email thestar@mlc.vic.edu.au with your details.

Amazing programs from Prep – Year 12

Learning through lockdowns

6 Find out on page 6 about MLC’s commitment to Art and Design.

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An international student perspective

Opportunities to explore

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MLC Banksia

Boarding life

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A culture of participation

Indigenous perspectives

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Enhancing MLC’s curriculum

To uphold the environmental values of the College, including reduction of print volumes and minimisation of wastage, each MLC household will receive one copy of The Star. Should you wish to receive additional copies please email thestar@mlc.vic.edu.au

Variety in learning

Junior Secondary School

Learning for a sustainable future

We encourage all Old Collegians to contact us and share news for inclusion in The Star’s community notices section.

Senior School

Please read our Community Notices Guidelines at mlc.vic.edu.au/communitynotices

Around MLC My wellbeing

MLC Foundation: foundation@mlc.vic.edu.au +61 3 9274 6308

Our magazines are wrapped using BioWrap biodegradable film, which is recyclable but will also decompose in landfill.

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16 Read what’s happening Around MLC on page 16.

Outgoing Year 12 reflections

A tradition of opportunity

The Star is printed on ‘Pacesetter uncoated’ paper to uphold the environmental values of the staff and students of MLC. This paper is FSC 30% recycled and made up from elemental chlorine-free bleached pulp, which is PEFCTM certified sources from sustainably managed sources. It is manufactured by an ISO 14001 certified mill.

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Recent College highlights

Staff spotlights

Methodist Ladies’ College Limited ABN 55 006 036 979 CRICOS 00325A

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New Full College SRC

Alumnae Relations: alumnae@mlc.vic.edu.au +61 3 9274 6357

207 Barkers Rd Kew Victoria 3101 Australia mlc.vic.edu.au

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Year 7s leap at opportunities

Middle School

MLC Admissions: admissions@mlc.vic.edu.au + 61 3 9274 6316

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Enterprise learning in action

Community notices

Contact us

Interdisciplinary learning in Year 9, see page 14.

MLC Kindle Junior School

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Meet two inspiring MLC staff members

From the Archives Parents’ Association update

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Events and action

Foundation news

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Celebrating MLC’s first Giving Day

OCC update

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News and forthcoming events

Alumnae stories

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Celebrating our diverse alumnae

Reunions 29 Update and diary dates

Community notices Celebrations, commemorations and accolades

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18 Outgoing Year 12s reflect on their MLC wellbeing journey on page 18.

Celebrating MLC’s unmatched opportunity Diana Vernon, Principal

Welcome to our November 2021 edition of The Star.

While across Melbourne we have recently been learning and living through our extended Lockdown 6.0 and the associated restrictions, the theme chosen for this issue is ‘unmatched opportunity’.

Even throughout lockdown, this phrase really sums up what it is to experience an MLC education and to carry it with you through life as a member of the MLC community.

As we have navigated the challenges of COVID-19 over the past twenty months, MLC students have – through our Continuous Learning and Wellbeing Program – had access to one of the broadest curricular and co-curricular offerings of any Australian school.

The story on page 4 about our clubs highlights the vast array of interest areas our students can explore, from creative writing to technology to feminism, photography, philosophy and pottery.

Facilitating participation is a core focus of our programs at every level, including at MLC Banksia (featured on page 6) and MLC Marshmead. In 2021 I am proud to report that MLC had the highest number of students participating in sport since we started recording metrics in 2015!

Meanwhile, the breadth and variety of subject choice at MLC continues to expand. Our curriculum developments in Year 9 (showcased on page 14) is a wonderful example, with new units like Planet to Plate and Moments in Time giving students the chance to develop interdisciplinary skills across multiple learning areas.

Breadth is also showcased through the leadership opportunities available to every MLC student. This year, our Year 10 students have explored ‘positive influence, positive choices and positive

MLC was lucky to celebrate Lunar New Year earlier this year, organised by one of our many student clubs: the Global Committee.

actions’ in leadership workshops. Our Junior School students took over the management of the JS Snack Shop when COVID-19 meant parents were no longer able to come onto the campus (page 12) and our senior students have successfully run MLC’s SRC to include broader representation across Years 7 – 12 (page 15).

MLC’s alumnae community continues to thrive. As OCC President, Anne Turner reflects on page 25, our past students have many ways to stay connected to their MLC peers, through events, networking and of course social media. As our Alumnae Stories (starting on page 26) attest, the MLC experience continues to inspire and motivate past students throughout their lives beyond school.

The ongoing pandemic has required us all to continually adapt and grow, both individually and as a community. For MLC, it has been an opportunity to reaffirm who we are as a College and evolve the way we represent our unique personality, which you can see through this edition of The Star.

Our archival story on page 21 reveals what has always made our school so special: our continuing tradition of creating unmatched opportunity for girls. It is a true privilege to lead our College, knowing that these opportunities impact students’ lives well beyond the Krome Gates.

Best wishes,

Diana Vernon, Principal

Students in the School Supervision Program lend a helping hand to re-plant the Junior School garden beds during lockdown.

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Join the club Aside from co-curricular offerings across sport, music, dramatic arts and visual arts, MLC students in Years 7 - 12 can choose from more than 30 lunchtime clubs.

One such club is PRISM, standing for ‘People Really Into Science @ MLC’. This year the club had a membership of 50 ‘PRISMatists’, led by a committee of three Year 12 students.

“Clubs give students an opportunity to get involved in their favourite subjects beyond the classroom environment,” says Harriet Waymark, one of the PRISM committee leaders. “For me, the most rewarding part of MLC clubs was meeting students from other year levels and holding discussions with equally passionate people that I might not have befriended otherwise.”

PRISM had planned an impressive Interschool Science Conference for 2021, with several medical research scientists agreeing to share their insights with students. While COVID-19 forced this main event to be postponed until 2022, PRISM was able to host several fortnightly meetings, and its ‘students versus teachers’ debate was a hit with the entire student body.

Growing in number and popularity every year, MLC’s clubs are usually led by Senior School students with teacher support.

Humanities teacher Molly Murphy facilitates the Amnesty International club and the Creative Writers’ Guild.

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Amy Xiao, Isabella Zheng and Rebekah Fullarton make paper cranes as part of the Global Committee club.

“By leading or being a member of a group, students develop their voice and the ability to advocate for themselves, their peers and others in the wider community. This could be about their own personal beliefs and interests or connected to their academic classes,” Molly explains. “Teacher facilitation helps students strengthen their communication and collaboration skills. We also support the events and activities that students design.”

The Amnesty International club is focused on community and societal issues and finding ways students can support those in need. Its 2021 fundraising initiatives included a fun run and lunchtime stall.

The Creative Writers’ Guild created an anthology of student writing. Fortunately, this club was able to continue meeting online during remote learning. “Students shared their writing with their peers for feedback and I gave them additional support,” Molly explains. “Students found writing to be a cathartic way to express the complex emotions they faced being in lockdown.”

“Clubs give students an opportunity to get involved in their favourite subjects beyond the classroom environment.”

Harriet Waymark, Year 12

MLC clubs in 2021

Student leaders explain their clubs

Years 7 - 12 Amnesty International

Tech Club

Amphitheatre Club

“Students who are interested in any aspect of technology can come together and be active in the things they are passionate about. We have access to the school’s excellent resources, including the 3D printers.”

Animanga Society Art Club Brain Bee Building Bridges Chinese Debating Team

Thea Bosco, Year 12

Connecting to Country Cosplay Club

PRISM (People Really Into Science @MLC)

Creative Writers’ Guild DAV Debating

“Many members enjoyed our meetings with science games and deep discussions. Students enjoy gathering together with like-minded people who are passionate about science. We can develop our ideas as a group and make them happen.”

Design Thinking and Making Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Global Committee Intersectional Feminist Club Independent Student Theatre Company JSS Debating

Chloe Wang, Year 12

JSS Drama Club

“The PRISM students vs. teachers debate was a highlight of the year, on the topic of ‘We should fear the rise of artificial intelligence’. Encouraged to be as farfetched and comedic as possible, the debaters entertained many members of the broader school community. We run events like this to encourage more girls to become involved in science, which is still a largely male-dominated field.”

JSS Musical K-Pop Club Literature Club Mahjong Union Makerspace MS Debating and Oratory Music Club Philosophy Club

Harriet Waymark, Year 12

Photography Mentoring Program Pottery Club

Amphitheatre

PRISM

This club aims to facilitate discussion on political issues, ranging from conflicts in Iran to climate change. We try to challenge each other’s views to make for rich discussion, which simultaneously gives us a better understanding of issues. We set up a Microsoft Teams channel to continue our meetings during lockdown. In our last meeting for 2021, we discussed the conflicts in Myanmar.

It was great to hear the views of the younger students and learn from their perspectives.

Steph Gordon, Grace Garriock, Nicola Anderson and Gabby Walker, Year 12 Amnesty International As a club, we have three key objectives: raising awareness, raising funds, and taking action. We believe the club gives students a sense of empowerment and gratitude, gleaned from the opportunity to lead and be a part of grass-roots initiatives that have a tangible impact.

Students always bring a smile along to our fortnightly meetings.

Clare Beaton-Wells and Jacinta Li, Year 11

Rainbow Alliance Sci Fi Club Screen and Media Club Society of Writing SPARK SS Public Speaking Tech Club The Exchange The Green Team The Historians’ Society Pictured from top: Students enjoyed exploring the different clubs at MLC through our ‘Clubs Carnival’ held earlier in 2021.

Theatre Sports Year 11 Outdoor Leaders Junior School Clubs

A PRISM meeting takes place in MLC’s Science labs at lunchtime.

Art Club

The Global Committee learns to make paper cranes.

Drama Club

Makerspace is a popular lunchtime club, where students can get creative through tech or crafts.

Students enjoy developing their own creative projects in Pottery Club.

Chess Club French Club Japanese Club Japanese Hiragana Reading Club Library clubs Photography Mentors Sign Club SPARK Junior 5

Committed to Art and Design MLC’s Art and Design Department is one of the largest in Australia. What does that mean for students?

MLC’s Senior School students benefit from the support and experience of 13 dedicated teaching staff and four specialist technician and educational support staff. The team draws on vast educational and industry knowledge to deliver an outstanding Art and Design education.

The extensive curriculum is further enhanced by 13 specialist studios and a technology studio fitted with industry-standard graphic design software and 3D printers.

In Years 11 and 12, every VCE Art and Design subject is offered at MLC, alongside the globally recognised Visual Arts course in the International Baccalaureate.

Senior School Head of Art and Design, Mark Threadgold, says MLC deeply values the Arts. “The College’s commitment to Art and Design is outstanding. We have exceptional resources to support our program.”

Year 9 students participate in a three-day intensive artist workshop at MLC Marshmead. “We opened Jack’s Shed art studio there in Term 2. The beautiful environment of Marshmead influences their artmaking process.”

The Art and Design team runs regular co-curricular activities, exhibitions and events throughout the year, in collaboration with the Art Prefect and other student leaders. The Art Club, Ceramics Club, Woodwork Club, Screen and Media Club, and Photography Mentoring are all popular.

“The Friends of Art parent committee provides wonderful support for our events schedule. In recent years, online exhibitions via virtual ‘walk through’ technology have complemented our physical gallery-style exhibitions.”

During remote learning periods, MLC supported students to continue producing high quality work, with an online system to request art materials and access technical support. “We had a COVID-safe system for students to drop off work to be fired in the kiln, or submit their designs for laser cutting,” Mark explains.

The Years 7-10 curriculum includes core subjects and an impressive choice of electives. From designing homewares with laser cutters to film and television production, fashion design and ceramics and sculpture, the breadth of materials and technologies on offer is world class.

“Students will analyse, interpret and evaluate a range of visual artworks. Appreciating work by First Nations Australians is another deep commitment at MLC,” Mark says.

“Our Artist in Residence Program is particularly inspiring for students. By working with esteemed visual artists, they also gain industry insights.”

This year, artists Tai Snaith, Kathy Temin, Jahnne Pasco-White, Ann De Bono and Kay Abude engaged with students in practical workshops in MLC’s studios and via interactive online discussions.

Head of Art and Design, Mark Threadgold guiding Year 7 students through painting techniques.

MLC’s Art and Design journey Kindle

Prep to Year 6

Years 7 to 10

Reggio Emilia play-based learning.

Weekly art classes plus integrated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Design and Mathematics) learning across the whole curriculum.

Media, Visual Arts, Product Design and Technology (Wood Design), plus multiple electives.

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Space to create and make Junior School Art Co-ordinator Anna Arvanitis shares the experiences on offer for students in Prep to Year 6.

How would you describe MLC’s Art and Design curriculum in Junior School?

Students will explore a variety of materials, techniques, and equipment, and respond to artwork from different cultures and times. We are fortunate to have 80 minutes of art a week, which allows students time to develop skills, self-reflect and share their success and choices with peers.

The Visiting Artist program is a unique MLC opportunity.

Who did students work with this year?

Learning from practising artists helps students appreciate the process of dreaming, making, and creating. Our Junior School Parents’ Committee funds one of our visiting artists each year, which is wonderful. This year we have employed quilt maker, Sandra Dorse. Years 3 and 4 students learned about the convict Rajah Quilt and each sewed a personal square, which Sandra combined into one quilt. Students will auction the quilt for Service Learning.

Students learn to make a clay peacock in Year 1 ceramics with Junior School Art Co-ordinator, Anna Arvanitis.

Our Year 5 students worked with Wurundjeri elder Murrundindi.

Each student designed an artwork, inspired by Indigenous themes, which was replicated on an umbrella.

Local artist and author Tai Snaith visited Year 1 and read her latest book You Might Find Yourself. An amazing conversation followed about how artists get their ideas and the process they follow to make artworks. Students made a collage taking inspiration from Tai’s technique.

Grace Qiu (Year 12), Still Oceans. Crochet, 150cm x 40cm.

What co-curricular art experiences are available in Junior School?

As well as gallery excursions across all year levels, our Year 6 Art leaders do a wonderful job teaching younger students during lunchtimes. I am always in awe seeing their commitment and growth. Students this year taught tie dye, lava lip gloss and galaxy jars.

How do MLC’s facilities enhance the program?

The art room is huge with lots of windows and natural light.

Students love the art space and the ability to ‘create and make’ without having to get it right all the time. We also have a kiln and students love creating with clay.

What about art during remote learning?

The creative outlet has become even more valuable. Students always tell me they are sad when art is over, that it goes too quickly. Years 5 and 6 students learned the ‘ingredients’ of good photography in Term 3. It was a great exercise for us all to find beauty in the mundane and connect as a group.

Emily Tran (Year 12), Plastic Ceiling, 2020. Oil on canvas, 97 x 93cm.

Years 11 and 12 The full choice of VCE subjects or the IB Visual Arts course.

Artists in Residence Senior School hosts artists in conjunction with the Monash University Museum of Art. Junior School hosts Visiting Artists.

Co-curricular House art competitions, interstate tours, biennial Italy tour in Years 11 and 12, regular excursions and student-led clubs.

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Learning through lockdowns: an international student perspective From China to Melbourne to South Korea and back to Melbourne, MLC Year 12 student and boarder Hanbi Zhao has overcome the challenges of COVID-19 with impressive positivity.

Hanbi returned to MLC in January 2021 and has enjoyed this year’s mix of face-to-face and online learning.

“When the coronavirus hit, I left Australia and completed Year 11 from my grandmother’s home in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea,” Hanbi explains.

Hanbi says she was attracted to MLC because of all the cocurricular and student leadership opportunities.

“During Melbourne’s lockdowns, my experience was similar to MLC students who were in Australia, except that there was a time difference, so I needed to be up and organised early!”

However with international borders closed, Hanbi remained in South Korea throughout 2020, even as students in Melbourne were able to return to face-to-face learning.

“When students returned to learning on campus, I appreciated the efforts that my MLC teachers made to ensure I was still included in lessons. They would make sure I was involved and understood the content, and would also provide me with extra one-on-one time after class if I needed it.

“MLC’s wellbeing program was also a big help. I really appreciated that my Tutor and Boarding House teachers contacted me regularly, to check in and see how I was going.”

Hanbi, who is completing the VCE at MLC this year, says she found social isolation the hardest part about remote learning overseas.

“I really missed my day and boarding friends. Even though we would speak a lot while I was in South Korea, I was desperate to get back to see them in Melbourne!” she says.

“It’s been nice to have my boarding family around during lockdowns, when we haven’t been able to attend classes in person.”

“Last year I was House Swimming Captain for Berry and this year I am a Boarding House Big Sister and on the 2021 House Committee. We’ve lost a lot over 2020 and 2021 but I am still very grateful for all the opportunities MLC has provided me.”

“When students returned to learning on campus, I appreciated the efforts that my MLC teachers made to ensure I was still included in lessons.”

Hanbi Zhao, Year 12 student and boarder

Pictured (L-R): Year 12 students Hanbi Zhao, Jeanette Yang, Shut Yan Chan and Zimo Zhu enjoy the sunshine outside the Boarding House.

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Year 7 Lake Explorers head out on the Gippsland Lakes.

Opportunities to explore at MLC Banksia At MLC’s stunning Education Outdoors site on the Gippsland Lakes, a sequential learning program provides students from Years 5 to 8 with a unique nature and outdoors experience each year, culminating in the transition to MLC Marshmead in Year 9.

“The MLC Banksia program is about giving students an array of different opportunities to engage in and about the natural landscape. From our Year 5 Banksia Survivors through to the Inside Out program in Year 8, the learning focus for each experience takes place at a different part of the site and includes unique activities and experiences,” explains MLC Banksia Director, Nic McConachy.

By the time they’ve completed their final visit to MLC Banksia, students have broadened their knowledge of themselves, of others and of their environment.

Such is the impact of the program that a large number of students apply for roles as Year 11 Outdoor Leaders and a chance to return to MLC Banksia to mentor younger students.

Adapting to deliver throughout the pandemic In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact the MLC Banksia program.

“We’ve been creative, flexible and determined to provide an MLC Banksia experience to all Years 5 – 8 students, even if it’s been shortened,” Nic says.

“We’ve seen throughout the pandemic just how important experiences in natural settings are for students’ wellbeing and mental health, not to mention the educational value.”

Despite snap lockdowns in Semester 1, all Years 6 and 7 groups were able to attend MLC Banksia, with shortened programs written, planned and scheduled for students in Years 5 and 8, restrictions and time permitting.

“For our Year 8 students, MLC Banksia is especially critical, as it provides the essential stepping stone to the concepts of ‘sustainable self, others and environment’ that they will explore at MLC Marshmead or within the Melbourne Term program in Year 9. Even though the Year 8 program is shortened in 2021, students will still have a nature and journey based experience as a foundation for next year.”

Sequential learning at MLC Banksia Year 5 Banksia Survivors – Themes: coastal flora and fauna of the Gippsland Lakes environment, web of life, adaptation and the world we want – Skills and experiences: sustainable practices, world of worms, Indigenous education and bush foods, hiking, camping, raft making, fun participating in the outdoors.

Year 6 Water Watchers – Themes: Water as a valuable and finite resource, community – Skills and experiences: goal setting, leadership, nature art, sustainable water, canoeing, camping, Indigenous education: the dreamtime, fire and water.

Year 7 Lake Explorers – Themes: personal development, environmental understanding – Skills and experiences: sailing, canoeing, hiking, bushwalking, camping, navigation, nature art, expedition, Indigenous education: the Gippsland Lakes region.

Year 8 Inside Out – Themes: mind, body, spirit and sustainable lifestyle choices – Skills and experiences: personal responsibility, self-care, social relationships, leadership, sustainable practices, sea kayaking, caving, navigation, camping, participating with purpose and a sense of fun.

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Embracing opportunities in the Boarding House What inspires students to choose to board at MLC? According to Head of Boarding, Jane Shone, a major drawcard is the College’s vast array of co-curricular and learning opportunities.

“Many students choose boarding so they can access the extensive range of core and elective subjects on offer at MLC, the huge number of clubs and of course the sports,” Jane explains.

“Talented cricketers, netballers, gymnasts, swimmers and soccer players are all part of the MLC boarding family. These athletes can play and train at a higher level by boarding at MLC and being involved in school, club and representative programs.

We make it easy for the girls by facilitating their travel to training and games.”

Fostering a culture of participation Jane says a culture of participation is deliberately nurtured within the Boarding House.

“We are a safe space from which girls can explore all the wonderful opportunities at MLC. We have gymnasts who love the chance to try diving, dancers who pick up cheerleading and many girls who get involved in MLC’s student-led clubs. With so much to choose from, our role is to support the girls to make the most of everything that’s on offer.”

Costume making fun during the weekend.

Staff supervisors assigned across Years 7 to 12 encourage students to give new things a go. Meanwhile, the Boarding House LACE program (Life skills, Activities, Community, Engagement) helps reinforce a spirit of involvement. It includes health and wellbeing sessions, fun excursions and activities focused on helping others.

“MLC’s wide academic offering is another drawcard for boarders. Many choose MLC so they can experience MLC Marshmead, while others value the broad selection of subjects and the chance to choose from several Senior School pathways.”

Boarders make a bright display using pictures from this year’s Amazing Race through Melbourne city.

Connecting in lockdown Jane says that during 2021 lockdowns, the warm, community atmosphere in the Boarding House has been a saving grace for students.

“Girls from Years 7 to 12 have been involved in a whole range of activities, from baking challenges to craft activities, board games and even an ‘in House’ music festival complete with hairbraiding and limbo dancing.”

“Although it has been challenging to be locked down, being in a large house with a group of girls from different year levels has been fun, and there is always someone to talk to, go on a walk or watch a movie with. The community atmosphere feels like home and those students who have remained on campus have bonded ‘even more’ during lockdown.”

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Craft activities are a weekend favourite.

Variety to inspire What makes the learning experience rich and magical in MLC Kindle? According to Director, Rebecca Drysdale, it’s a special combination of variety and inquiry in the curriculum.

How do you design the MLC Kindle curriculum?

Wurundjeri elder, Murrundindi, works directly with students, sharing stories and firsthand experiences. Here, he is leading students through the annual Smoking Ceremony.

Indigenous perspectives in learning At MLC, Year 7 Geography students explore the economic, cultural and spiritual value of water to Victoria’s Wurundjeri and Koorie People. Year 8 Science students investigate traditional fire-starting methods used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, while Year 10 History students examine the experiences of Indigenous Australians during World War II.

“We also aim to engage, where possible, with Indigenous people to teach their own history, culture and ways of knowing and doing,” Lucy says.

These are just a few examples of how teachers embed Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the College curriculum.

Larrakia/Tiwi woman Aunty Tarina Fanning works with Year 10 History students to explore Australian race relations from an Indigenous perspective by looking at the Bringing them Home report and The Apology by former Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. She also runs a Q&A session with Year 11 IB English students as part of their study of Chloe Hooper’s The Tall Man: Death and Life on Palm Island.

“MLC’s Indigenous Program Strategy provides a platform for teachers and students to engage with Indigenous culture, people and issues, and reflects ACARA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander History and Cultures cross curriculum priority,” explains Indigenous Programs Co-ordinator, Lucy Amon.

In her role, Lucy works closely with MLC teachers at all levels. Collaboratively, they identify ways to include Indigenous perspectives in the classroom and to design engaging, discipline-relevant learning.

Wurundjeri elder, Murrundindi, works directly with students in MLC Kindle, Junior School and Junior Secondary School, sharing stories and firsthand experiences.

“In Year 7 History for example, Murrundindi shares family artefacts from the Coranderrk Aboriginal Mission as part of students’ exploration of Ancient Australia and their learning about the discovery of Mungo Lady.”

As we follow the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, research and inquiry are key components.

Teachers collaborate to come up with one meaningful, overarching question that all classrooms investigate. Each group then goes on its own learning trajectory, listening to the opinions and perspectives of others, finding answers and generating further questions.

What is your current research focus?

MLC Kindle’s current research focus is on the importance of community. Teachers and children are being challenged to consider how conventional views on community might be transformed by including more than the human world.

Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi has been integral to Kindle’s research on this topic and has enabled us to include an Indigenous perspective.

What are some recent learning highlights?

Children under three have enjoyed encounters with birds and thinking of ways to befriend birds.

Some of the 4-year-old kindergarten students visited a beautiful oak tree on the College grounds to explore kinship and connection with nature.

The 3-year-old kindergarten children enjoyed developing their relationship with water by attuning to its different sounds and sensations.

“MLC’s wonderful community of teachers are constantly looking at ways to make the curriculum more inclusive. Our Indigenous Program Strategy is helping us include more content about our First Nations Peoples and to nurture MLC’s culture of diversity.”

Images and footage of visiting birds are digitally projected into the classroom. Matilda, Abigail and Xavier are overjoyed and dance with the birds.

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Students in Junior School have been busy managing budgets, stock levels and sales in the Junior School Snack Shop.

Enterprise learning in action Providing opportunities for student leadership is a focus in MLC’s Junior School, where every student in Year 6 acts as a role model for younger students and is encouraged to lead by example.

“This idea of ‘distributed’ leadership isn’t new for us. Every Year 6 student has a meaningful role and an opportunity to contribute as a Junior School leader,” explains Head of Junior School, Louise Peyton.

Students apply for one of six leadership teams: Environment, Service, Wellbeing, House, Events and Activities. Within each team, students work collaboratively, sharing tasks and responsibilities.

This year, students across several teams joined forces in a unique way when they took over the running of the Junior School Snack Shop.

“The Snack Shop is normally co-ordinated and staffed by our Junior School Parents’ Committee (JSPC), but COVID-19 restrictions meant these parents could no longer come onto the school grounds,” explains Louise.

Year 6 students embraced the responsibility, leadership and learning opportunity.

“Each Year 6 class was allocated one term to run the facility and business. Students across multiple leadership teams needed to work together to decide what to sell, how much to order, manage the budget and manage communication with JSPC representatives.”

“Students were beginning to consider the packaging of the goods they were purchasing and how it was impacting on the environment. In addition to the economic bottom-line, they realised that they needed to consider the sustainability bottom-line.”

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Louise says students honed skills in project management, financial literacy and communication.

“They’ve been innovative, flexible, collaborative and entrepreneurial – all attributes of value across many areas of life and work.”

As the JSPC typically run the Snack Shop as a fundraiser, students were also given the chance to demonstrate service leadership by deciding how a portion of the proceeds would be directed.

“Students researched charities of interest to identify which projects they would support,” Louise says.

At the time of writing, 2021 Snack Shop funds have been directed to Sisterworks and the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.

“They’ve been innovative, flexible, collaborative and entrepreneurial – all attributes of value across many areas of life and work.”

Louise Peyton, Head of Junior School

Year 7s leap at opportunities Year 7 at MLC features a student-centred transition program and a Home Group environment that is familiar to students moving from primary school.

But alongside this dedicated support framework, MLC creates serious excitement about the move to secondary school.

“Year 7 students quickly become immersed in all the incredible opportunities available to them,” says Head of Junior Secondary School, Cathie Ireland.

Four students describe the new experiences they have embraced in Year 7:

Caitlin Humphries, Year 7 I absolutely loved learning to cross country ski on the ski camp. I found new friendships among my year level and met girls from the years above me. I joined the MLC Stars netball club and am a flautist in the Flockart Band. I am in the cross country group and competed in GSV swimming, triathlon, athletics and volleyball.

One thing that really stands out at MLC is the vast opportunities to learn. I competed in the Da Vinci Decathlon with 19 other Year 7 students. We all seemed to share a passion to strive and do well. The Nicholas Learning Centre is amazing.

Being able to write on the erasable tables, walls and even doors is fantastic for group work and lots of fun!

Xinyan (Ashleigh) Zhou, Year 7 MLC ladles out possibilities like soup! I joined the Rainbow Alliance, the Green Team and Sci-Fi clubs. With my cello, I played in the Amati Strings Ensemble. As well as GSV sport, I enjoyed strength and conditioning and cross country.

MLC Banksia tops the list of my favourite Year 7 experiences: quality time in nature, jumping off the pier after canoeing, and the best food I have ever eaten! The French Immersion program has undoubtedly improved my Français...I hope Madame can agree.

The Nicholas Learning Centre has 3D printers, projection screens, snazzy carpets, some of the coolest chairs I’ve ever seen, and the rooftop terrace, which my friends and I absolutely love.

Year 7 student, Emma Ward and friends have also enjoyed the transition to secondary school life, despite the year’s challenges.

Alice van Onselen, Year 7 I have loved everything about Year 7. My favourite sport was diving. I overcame my fear of heights and learnt so many great skills and tricks! One of my favourite subjects is Woodwork. To design a lamp, I used Adobe Illustrator to make my sketches come to life. After the laser cutter printed my design, I used different tools to cut and create the base of my lamp. It was such a different, exciting and rewarding project!

Xinyan’s favourite moment at MLC Banksia was jumping in the water after canoeing.

Emily Franco, Year 7 I have loved extension opportunities such as the Da Vinci Decathlon, the Ethics Olympiad and Compass Mathematics. I felt privileged to represent MLC in the 2021 Giving Day video and to be elected Home Group Captain and SRC representative for Cato.

Being at an all-girls school has also made a world of difference.

I am able to focus more without the cacophony of noise every time I walk into a classroom! English is my favourite subject but I love Drama too.

I loved Speech and Drama club and House Cheerleading. I also competed in GSV netball and joined the MLC Stars.

“Year 7 students quickly become immersed in all the incredible opportunities available to them.”

Cathie Ireland, Head of Junior Secondary School

I have participated in the Cath Moore writer’s workshop, House debating, the Compass Philosophy Club and the athletics and cross country teams. MLC Banksia was an experience I will never forget.

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Year 9 students, Keira Murugasu and Amelia Blake, enjoy the Dr Wood Learning Centre’s new outdoor areas.

Learning for a sustainable future MLC’s renowned Year 9 program has been further enhanced with a new curriculum that builds key 21st century skills and creates a stronger sustainability narrative for students.

“Our ever-changing world demands the ability to integrate knowledge and skills in novel and creative ways,” explains Melissa. “With its collaborative spaces, the newly redeveloped Dr Wood Learning Centre provides the perfect environment for this kind of learning in Year 9.”

“Our new program is anchored in the concept of sustainability across personal, environmental and community pillars, which already informed the MLC Marshmead curriculum,” says Head of Middle School, Melissa Lange. “By extending the focus to Kew, we have more effectively linked sustainability learning across both urban and nonurban contexts.”

Designing sustainable solutions

Features of the new curriculum include two design thinking projects plus a series of innovative interdisciplinary units.

Blurring the lines for broader thinking Three new interdisciplinary units see students combine concepts and learning across more than one subject area: – Planet to Plate: students investigate Melbourne’s food bowl, bringing together the disciplines of Home Economics and Geography.

– Moments in Time: Art and History come together as students investigate turning points in their own lives and their family heritage.

– Meal Kits: as they investigate the meal kit industry, students combine knowledge and skills from Commerce and Home Economics to understand Australian meal and business trends.

The Local Urban Project and the MLC Marshmead Design Thinking Project are new units that harness the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a vehicle for powerful learning.

In the Local Urban Project, students use design thinking to investigate a 21st century issue within their local context.

Focusing on one SDG of their choosing, they plan and develop a solution, which they present to an expert panel.

“This year, students have come up with some amazing ideas, from developing a financial literacy course for high school students to a ‘backyard farmers market’ that helps reduce food miles,” says Melissa.

The design thinking thread continues at MLC Marshmead and Melbourne Term, where students focus on personal, community and environmental sustainability and explore how positive change could occur – including how they can export this change back to their home lives. In 2021, students have investigated a range of issues including social inclusion, mental wellbeing and climate change.

According to Melissa, the new elements of the Year 9 curriculum “combine to give our students powerful, relevant learning experiences, and a set of highly transferrable skills.”

Pictured from top: Head of Middle School, Melissa Lange, meets with students Honor Edmonds and Penelope Waymark in one of the Dr Wood Learning Centre’s flexible breakout spaces.

Students water the edible garden during Planet to Plate, MLC’s new interdisciplinary unit.

The newly refurbished Dr Wood Learning Centre.

14 The Star November 2021

(L-R) Abbie Kerr and Samantha Gong work collaboratively in the classroom.

Student leaders take the reins A Full College Student Representative Council (SRC) has been established at MLC, thanks to the vision and leadership of Senior Student Leaders.

“Although we have had an SRC for many years, we identified an opportunity for improvement,” explains Year 12 student and 2021 Senior Student Leader, Steph Gordon. “The 2020 Senior Leadership Team came up with the idea of the Full College SRC, and we’ve progressed the concept in 2021.”

The Full College SRC is, as the name implies, a vehicle for students from Years 7 to 12 to participate and contribute.

Mentoring and leadership skills

“It allows students to have an active voice and present ideas for change and improvement. Five student representatives from each year level are elected by their peers,” explains Steph.

“Having students from all secondary year levels has been positive and helped more ideas come through.”

While COVID-19 has impacted the activities of the 2021 Full College SRC, Year 12 student and Senior Student Leader, Annika Lardner says the group has still been able to hear and progress student-led change.

“We have been able to realise a student request to have more chargers around the College and also have conversations about the length of recess break.”

Improving the student experience

30 students from Years 7 to 12

Cohesive leadership model

Leadership and mentoring in focus In establishing the Full College SRC, students wanted a cohesive, non-hierarchical leadership model and to provide opportunities to develop leadership skills.

“One of the nicest things about the Full College SRC is the opportunity to work with students from Years 7 – 12. As Senior Student Leaders, it’s our role to demonstrate a consultative style of leadership where everyone is heard and included. We also mentor and encourage younger SRC members,” Annika says.

The new Full College SRC model initiated by the 2020 Senior Student Leadership Team.

Meet inaugural SRC Prefect, Clare Beaton-Wells For Year 11 student, Clare Beaton-Wells, being chosen as the inaugural SRC Prefect for 2022 represents a chance to build the profile of the Full College SRC. “I am looking forward to boosting the reputation and prestige of SRC throughout the school,” she says. “The SRC is grass roots and student-led. It’s a chance for students from all year levels to bring to life initiatives, projects and ideas that matter to them.”

When she takes the helm next year, Clare will be responsible for planning and chairing SRC meetings, liaising with students and staff and working to promote change that benefits the MLC student experience.

“I am passionate about the SRC as an opportunity for students to activate change. I also want to foster leadership skills, both through student involvement in the group and also through formal training.”

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Around MLC A snapshot of College news and events

Stay up to date with the latest MLC news: Facebook: facebook.com/mlckew Instagram: @mlckew

Musical connections Term 3’s remote learning has not stopped our many music students from showcasing their talents through performance! During our Continuous Learning and Wellbeing program, the Music Department have been sharing recordings with the student and staff community of many ‘at home’ individual performances from Junior School to Senior School.

Though students were learning oncampus midway through the year, unfortunately restrictions meant families were not able to attend events such as the Winter Concert, performances by the Year 2 Strings Ensemble and JSS Percussion Ensemble, and the Vocal Soiree. Nevertheless in true pivoting style, all performances were recorded to be enjoyed by their families at home.

Computers for a cause Each year, students are invited to donate their pre-loved notebook computers to charity at the end of their lease.

In June, the College organised to donate 27 notebook computers from the Junior School to Jesuit Social Services, where their clients benefit enormously from an improved delivery of quality education, training, social services and digital literacy.

Thank you to MLC’s Centre for Computing and Communications (CCC) for co-ordinating and to the families who kindly participated in this long-running initiative.

16 The Star November 2021

A warmer winter

Spirit of democracy

In 2020, Ashley Ward (now Year 11) completed two successful community ventures: raising money for Mallacoota after the summer bushfires, and potting succulent plants for local aged care homes during Melbourne’s 2020 extended lockdown.

Congratulations to Year 11 student Jasmine Xu, who was one of the victors in the prestigious 2020 Premier’s Spirt of Democracy Prize, which is awarded to only 22 Victorian students across Years 9, 10 and 11 each year.

This year for her IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project, Ash turned her attention to the people sleeping rough during the pandemic, reaching out to the MLC and local communities to gather donations of warm jackets. She calls the project ‘A Warmer Winter.’

Exceeding her goal of 100 items, the clothing was donated through charity 300 Blankets.

Ash says, “Acts of charity during times like these are so important, as it’s always good to be mindful that others may be really struggling, and to help them out is an act of kindness that will go a long way!”

Leading the way With a network of over 32,000 Old Collegians, the opportunity for our current students to engage and learn from our alumnae has long been valued and celebrated. We have been delighted to host an array of online events for our students even during COVID restrictions, including a Year 9 Work Ready Workshop, the MLC Careers Department’s Tertiary Transitions panel for Year 12s, and the Careers Showcase hosted by the Parents’ Association.

All events involved a range of presenters and panels, whose varied individual journeys inspired our students and allowed them to see what is possible!

Thank you to all of our alumnae who have taken the time to share their knowledge and insight.

Students were asked to write a piece in response to this question: “Ancient democracy is often viewed as a system of government where the citizens of the city-state held power. Is this an accurate observation of the democratic model in modern-day Australia?”

As a winner, Jasmine was invited to travel on a two-week trip to Greece to explore the Ancient World sites, though unfortunately cancelled due to COVID-19.

However, the winning essays will be published in a special edition book.

Jasmine has since participated in a joint Monash University and VCAA research project on civics education and is planning a democracy education session for all Year 11 students.

Premier’s VCE Awards The annual Premier’s VCE Awards recognise students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their VCE. We are delighted that ten MLC students have been recognised for their 2020 studies, among the highest from any Victorian school.

Congratulations to Kirrily Bortolussi who was one of only 23 students in the state to be awarded a Top All-Round VCE High Achiever Award for achieving a study score of 46 or higher in at least five VCE subjects.

Further congratulations to our nine Study Award recipients, recognised as the top achievers for a subject in 2020: Alexandra Atcheson (current Year 12), Anya Ross, Charlotte Young, Erin Joy, Kestin McNamara, Lara Christie, Mia Blackman, Sarah Cato (current Year 12) and Zetong Zhang.

Georgette Sweeney performs Dynasty as part of MLC Music’s virtual Vocal Soiree.

Year 11 student, Jasmine Xu was one of only 22 Victorian students awarded the prestigious 2020 Premier’s Spirt of Democracy Prize.

Josephine Boffa (Community Partnership Co-ordinator, Jesuit Social Services), with Year 5 students (L – R): Chara, Aella, Estelle and Jocelyn who generously donated their laptops.

A vibrant array of online career workshops for students have taken place throughout 2021’s lockdowns.

Year 11 student, Ashley Ward stands proud in front of the donated blankets and jackets from her ‘Warmer Winter’ project.

My wellbeing at MLC MLC has long had a multi-layered approach to wellbeing programs that involve both students and parents. As they prepare to farewell MLC, our Year 12 Senior Prefects look back on the wellbeing initiatives that supported them throughout their school years.

Riya Fordyce, Senior Prefect MLC’s wellbeing initiatives have given me actual knowledge, but also social skills and perspective. For example, at the Respectful Relationships Day with Scotch College in Year 10, I spoke with a whole lot of people whose lives were quite different from mine, which was pretty meaningful for me.

The Big Sister program in Year 7 was a standout. It felt special to have the older girls approach me at lunch and check how I was doing. I then became a Big Sister last year. It always cheers me up to have a Year 8 student say hi to me, from when I was her Big Sister!

In each year level, we do the VIA Character survey and reassess our character strengths. I’ve learnt a lot about myself and how I can grow if I set my mind to it.

Gabby Walker, Deputy Senior Prefect The multi-tiered nature of the wellbeing program is very effective.

Being able to go to your Homegroup Teacher, Year Level Co-ordinator or Head of School always provided a sense of comfort. The wellbeing lectures have been really helpful.

For example, those on sleep and of course Paul Dillon! My parents attended several lectures too and found them valuable. It’s helped our family be on the same page and discuss wellbeing together.

I have been able to get the most out of my education by taking care of my mental, physical and social wellbeing.

I have learnt how important it is to maintain a balance between academic pursuits, co-curricular activities and just general leisure, so even in Year 12 I kept doing the things I love.

My favourite wellbeing experience was MLC Marshmead!

I learnt how to look after myself and others, and left Marshmead a more well-rounded, community-minded individual. It made me question how we can live more interconnectedly and collaboratively.

Respectful Relationships opened my eyes to how we can approach relationships in a healthy manner.

18 The Star November 2021

Chloe Taylor, Deputy Senior Prefect The wellbeing program has been a constant reminder to take care of myself and others. I have learnt strategies for managing stress and navigating relationships that have helped me at school and in my life.

I started at MLC in Kindle and can remember the ‘Bounce Back’ program teaching me about resilience even at such a young age. I enjoyed the support of the Big Sisters and Outdoor Leaders when I was in Year 7. It was comforting to have someone to look up to and go to for advice.

My favourite wellbeing program has been Well4Twelve. The activities were fun, and it felt good to be active with the rest of my year level.

The wellbeing programs have also helped me to question a variety of social norms. For example, gender roles and expectations. I appreciated how we unpacked this topic in different environments – both with our peers (as a group of girls) and as part of the Respectful Relationships Day with Scotch. It was helpful to consider the boys’ perspectives as well.

“The wellbeing program has been a constant reminder to take care of myself and others.”

Chloe Taylor, Deputy Senior Prefect

Wellbeing initiatives in 2021 Well4Twelve includes challenges that focus on individual reflection or promote teamwork, like learning bongos.

Every year, a number of targeted initiatives underpin MLC’s core Wellbeing Program. Our whole school approach encompasses students, parents and staff.

Butterfly Foundation Students in Years 5-8 and 10-12 learned practical strategies to support body confidence, and how to seek help for themselves and others affected by disordered eating.

Body Safety Australia Junior School parent/student workshops covered protective behaviours and bodysafe education. Parent information sessions supported comprehensive workshops on diversity and inclusion for Years 7-9 students.

Respectful Relationships Day Yoga and meditation are key activities in the Well4Twelve program.

Year 10 students discussed issues of conflict, consent and gender. A parent webinar covered consent and the law.

Time and Space at home These online sessions were an opportunity to strengthen positive connections between Years 7 and 8 students and their parents/mentors, well supported by the Year 11 Big Sisters.

Yoga is practiced in Well4Twelve as an active stress reliever, and students are encouraged to keep up the practice through Year 12.

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Staff spotlights

James Prowse IB Co-ordinator

Belinda Buchanan Deputy Head of Middle School

After seven years at an international school in Brussels, in roles including Assistant Principal and IB Co-ordinator, James Prowse returned to Melbourne and joined MLC at the beginning of this year.

With four degrees, including a Master of Theology and Master of Education, Belinda Buchanan demonstrates a true commitment to lifelong learning to students.

“Living and working overseas has helped me appreciate the world-class programs and student support that MLC provides,” he says. “It’s a very inspirational and well-resourced learning community.”

Passionate about the International Baccalaureate (IB), James values the structure of the program and its emphasis on broad, rounded education.

“The IB does demand that students embrace a definition of education that is more holistic than vocational in orientation.

It provides amazing training in how to think as well as building a degree of self-efficacy that students can draw on throughout their lives.”

He sees the Theory of Knowledge (ToK), Creativity Action Service (CAS) and Extended Essay as “front and centre of what’s great about the IB.” “These aren’t ‘extras’ but lie at the heart of what the IB is all about – breadth, personal development and academic rigour.”

“One of the fantastic things about MLC is that there’s a choice of pathways in Senior School. No matter what path students choose, MLC has an amazing team of teachers in IB, VCE and VCE VET, who help every student succeed.”

As IB Co-ordinator, James supports students and teachers at every stage of the IB learning journey. He teaches a Year 11 ToK class as well as English in Years 10 and 12.

“A lot of my focus this year has been on devising ways to successfully deliver traditionally face-to-face elements of the IB program online.”

As well as classroom teaching and curriculum leadership, James’ professional experience includes acting as an evaluator for the Council of International Schools.

20 The Star November 2021

Early in her career, she moved from youth work to education.

Later, in the middle of her decade of teaching and leadership at MLC, Belinda took a year off to complete her second masters degree. Living in Germany, she taught classes from Prep to Year 12 at the International School of Hamburg. She was also able to share her insights from MLC’s IB Theory of Knowledge subject, and bring new ideas back to MLC. In her current role as the Deputy Head of Middle School, Belinda’s multi-faceted career informs her work teaching and guiding students in Years 9 and 10.

“As a team, we model an attitude of being willing to reflect and embrace change. This becomes increasingly important in Middle School, as students look for real life examples,” Belinda says.

Reflection and change informed a recent Middle School curriculum review, with new subjects introduced to reinforce ‘interdisciplinary thinking’ within the Year 9 program. In 2021, the new Local Urban Project has engaged students as ‘active participants’ in change, requiring them to design a solution to a challenge in their community.

Belinda also plays a key role overseeing student wellbeing, including the Respectful Relationships program. She is passionate about the student-led workshops that are a key feature of MLC’s shared program with Scotch College which, she says, “encourage student voice and enable students to reflect on each other’s perspectives.”

In her 20 years of teaching, Belinda has complemented her Humanities and Religious Education specialties with wellbeing and student coordinator roles, both at MLC and other schools.

As well as writing IB curriculum, she has worked as a VCAA assessor. She currently teaches History in both Year 10 and the Year 12 IB program.

A Business class in the 1920s.

A tradition of opportunity Stacey Coenders, MLC Archivist

Before MLC was established in Victoria, several denomination schools existed to provide high quality education for boys. But there was very little opportunity for girls. MLC set out to change this situation and began a long tradition of offering unparalleled experiences for girls.

From its earliest days, MLC has catered to students with diverse educational needs. One of the earliest examples of this is the Extra-College Course introduced in the 1890s.

This tailored course enabled older students, or students in poor health, to select their own subjects and pace with a focus on studies in music, elocution, deportment (including etiquette) and painting. A later example of tailored educational opportunities was the establishment of our Deaf Integration Program in 1986.

An Art class in 1893.

On the co-curricular front, MLC was one of the first girls’ schools to offer sporting competitions. Our first documented event was in 1885, with tennis matches against PLC. MLC was also one of the first girls’ schools to travel interstate for sporting exchanges – starting with a trip to MLC Adelaide in 1910. Sporting exchanges quickly led to the introduction of cultural exchanges, which have seen MLC students travel widely across Australia and many parts of the world.

Another unique opportunity for students was introduced in 1906 with the establishment of the College Prefects system.

Although an innovation in boys’ schools during the 19th century, most girls’ schools didn’t adopt the concept until much later in the 20th century. The Prefect roles at MLC were some of the earliest leadership opportunities within any girls’ school.

Recognising the diversity of employment opportunities for young women in the early 20th century, MLC developed its very own Business College course in 1917. This course was ahead of its time, training girls in practical and employable skills such as typewriting, photography, bookkeeping, business procedures and shorthand.

Although students from 100-plus years ago would be stunned at the diversity of learning and co-curricular activities on offer at MLC in 2021, they would instantly recognise the College’s enduring commitment to choice and opportunity. It’s this determination to open doors for girls and women that continues to set MLC apart.

MLC’s very first Prefects, 1906.

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Parents’ Association update

From the President Sophie Croft, President, MLC Parents’ Association

Connecting our community and continuing to engage in 2021 was always going to be a challenge in the context of the environment in which we currently live. Our calendar was planned with a breadth of interesting and diverse events, offering opportunity for our community to engage.

So how did it unfold and how did we take the learnings of 2020 into the year?

Somehow, we have managed to hold events in person. Beef and Burgundy and Women Inspired were both sell-outs. We connected again with PA Live – an online initiative introduced in 2020. Skincare Starters, which combined a panel discussion on general skincare with Dr Sarah Hume (MLC parent) and a skincare tutorial with former student Ruby Vidor (2016), saw our biggest audience. Our AGM, Careers Expo and International Parents Update took place online too.

We launched our inaugural Stars Day – a day for our students and their parents to give back by providing service in the community with charity partners. It was so pleasing to see this event resonate with our families, again a sell-out but now postponed due to Melbourne’s extended lockdown.

While our schedule of events has been interrupted, postponed and changed, our wonderful community of parents reps, year level liaisons and Special Interest Group committees have risen to the challenge to evolve. What hasn’t changed is the enthusiasm of our community to connect and engage. And as we navigate our way through these times, our focus continues to be on providing a breadth of activities and opportunities for our community to do just that, by volunteering and getting involved.

The pandemic has changed how we do things, but it won’t change our need for connection. So, as we look to 2022, we will again be planning to evolve and create diverse opportunities for the MLC parent community to connect.

“The pandemic has changed how we do things, but it won’t change our need for connection.”

Sophie Croft, President, MLC Parents’ Association

The Women Inspired event went ahead in 2021. Pictured clockwise from top left: Past parent and ovarian cancer ambassador, Leone Flynn receives a standing ovation; PA President, Sophie Croft introduces the evening; the Hawthorn Town Hall was the venue for this year’s event.

22 The Star November 2021

Care for Kew’s four legged community

Women Inspired Jinah Johnston, Women Inspired Convenor With the good fortune to gather in real life, we were indeed ‘women inspired’ at this special Parents’ Association event in May. This was our third Women Inspired event and Hawthorn Town Hall was buzzing with parents from MLC Kindle to Year 12.

This year’s theme, ‘Brave enough to be vulnerable’, was chosen to reflect the challenging times of the past year.

Many in our community may have felt vulnerable and had to find courage while living with uncertainty. We invited speakers to share their stories dealing with real issues in our community. We wholeheartedly thank our speakers for their moving and insightful presentations.

– MC Victoria Atkinson, MLC parent and CMO of Healthscope, summarised the impact of COVID-19 on the health system, including mental health issues in children.

– Past MLC parent Leane Flynn spoke about her battle with ovarian cancer and her efforts to increase awareness of early detection tests, as an ambassador for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.

– Belinda Caldwell, CEO of Eating Disorders Victoria, shared her experience caring for a child with an eating disorder. Belinda educated us about warning signs and the importance of early intervention.

Annette Dal Sasso & LJ Ryan, Community Care Group

(L-R) AFL CEO Gil McLachlan being interviewed

by MLC parent and sports journalist Stephen Quartermain at Beef & Burgundy.

AFL in the spotlight at Beef & Burgundy John Fergusson, Beef & Burgundy Convenor In April, the Richmond Rowing Sheds played host to our first in-person Beef & Burgundy event for 12 months.

More than 130 MLC dads gathered under COVID restrained conditions on a beautiful Monday evening, against the backdrop of a stunning view of the Yarra and Melbourne city skyline. Those attending represented every MLC year level, from MLC Kindle through to Year 12.

We were honoured to welcome AFL Chief Executive, Gillon McLachlan as our special guest for the evening. MLC father and highly respected Channel 10 sports journalist, Stephen Quartermain interviewed Gil before opening to the audience for an entertaining and candid Q&A. The success of MLC’s own GSV AFL teams in recent years, and the involvement of several past students in the AFLW, added another dimension to the evening.

Just as Term 3 began, the wider Kew community was hit with a COVID-19 outbreak right on MLC’s doorstep.

Hundreds of families associated with our neighbouring schools, Trinity Grammar School and Ruyton Girls’ School, and many of our linked families, were required to isolate as primary or secondary contacts.

The MLC Parents’ Association Community Care Group quickly realised that many local families needed help.

We saw that the emerging need was not shopping and meals, which were easy to arrange online, but the many beloved dogs missing their daily walk.

More than 150 MLC families and staff, including our Principal, Diana Vernon, offered their time and more than 50 happy four-legged friends were regularly walked during this challenging time.

Feedback from MLC, Trinity and Ruyton families reflects just how much this gesture meant to our wider community: “Thank you, MLC. Was a life saver for us and Raffy the groodle thanks you!”

“Coco and Lucy were walked for well over an hour yesterday by superstar MLC teacher Bridget. She made time for them after a full day of teaching. What an incredible effort!”

“A big thank you to you and Di (our walker). I’m so humbled by the kindness of our community. Such a ray of sunshine and hope in this awful time.”

The event was a rare opportunity for MLC dads to come together, enjoy each other’s company and hear from a fantastic guest speaker. At the time of publication, we are still holding out hope to stage the second Beef & Burgundy in late November, COVID willing.

Women Inspired’s 2021 speaker line-up included (L - R): MLC parent and CMO of Healthscope, Victoria Atkinson; CEO of Eating Disorders Victoria, Belinda Caldwell; and Leane Flynn, past MLC parent and ambassador for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.

MLC volunteers provided much-needed dog walking services to local families under quarantine orders, co-ordinated by the Parents’ Association Community Care Group.

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Foundation news Celebrating the success of our first Giving Day Sue Felton, Director of Advancement Thank you most sincerely to all those who have supported the College this year, whether towards our MLC Libraries, Building or Scholarships Funds.

In particular, the inaugural MLC Giving Day online campaign in June was a great success, achieving its clear vision to support Principal’s Means-Tested Scholarships and surpassing its initial fundraising goal.

As always, the MLC community’s commitment to sharing opportunity through education shone through.

Special thanks to our major donors who matched every individual donation from our community, and to our volunteers who personally reached out to fellow parents and Old Collegians on the day.

We warmly invite you to read a comprehensive update in the Impact of Giving report accompanying this magazine.

Reflections on MLC’s first Giving Day Our community donors share their motivations for joining this year’s Giving Day, and our College leaders express their gratitude for this valued support.

Alumnae “MLC gave me a wonderful, well-rounded education!” Judy Selby (Reichman 1970), NSW “I appreciated benefitting from an MLC scholarship after my parents died.”

Jo Barlow (1976), NSW “I was a very lucky scholarship recipient in the 80s. Thank you.”

Linda Mellors (1992), VIC. Linda is also a current parent.

“I am forever grateful for a scholarship in the 1960s: truly life changing!”

Jacqueline Clayton (1969), NSW “I am grateful for my time at MLC and glad to help share that experience.”

Nieve Powell (2018), VIC “A great cause that offers genuine assistance to less advantaged families.”

Elida Brereton (1961), VIC. Elida is a current MLC Board Director.

College leaders “It has been particularly heart-warming to receive so many genuine messages of appreciation and goodwill from current and past parents, current and past staff and Old Collegians during our inaugural Giving Day.” Principal, Diana Vernon “Junior Secondary School (JSS) was excited to participate in MLC’s Giving Day. We wanted to help more girls from a range of backgrounds to come to the College and join us in Years 7 and 8. I was delighted to see the strong level of support via the online giving platform by our JSS parents, students and staff.”

Head of Junior Secondary School, Cathie Ireland

“The financial support of the scholarship really helped my family.

I’m really proud of where I am today.”

Sarah McColl-Gausden (2012)

“With this opportunity, we hope the girls thrive in all aspects of life.” Sally Davis (1972) and Pip Davis (2000), VIC Past parents “MLC gave our daughters the best education. We hope that others may benefit.” Stuart Turnbull and Mary Arnold-Turnbull, VIC Giving Day celebrates the education MLC provides to students like Emily and Sara.

“Helping to create more world-ready women for this very challenging world.”

Susan Coles, VIC “My daughter’s experience of education at MLC was so positive that it set her up to be confident with what the world might hold for her in the future. Thank you to all the teachers and leaders.” Connie Kellett, VIC “The humanity of this fundraiser makes it special.” Toni Reid, VIC. Toni is also a current staff member.

Read more about the Giving Day and the work of the MLC Foundation in our Impact of Giving report, enclosed with this edition of The Star.

OCC update From the OCC President I am continually impressed by the extraordinary breadth of contribution and impact made by Old Collegians at a local, national and global level. This year in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, nine alumnae received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their selfless and sustained service in their chosen fields. Former students also starred at the Tokyo Olympics in both competition and support roles, while the involvement of Old Collegians in the AFLW in both competition and support roles continues to gather pace.

We have once again had a very strong field of applicants for our Old Collegians Fellowship Grant (OCFG) Program. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about the not-for-profit ventures that Old Collegians are leading to improve our world through the empowerment of women, female leadership, education and social entrepreneurship. It is always a thrill to talk with applicants in the OCFG selection interviews and hear how passionate they are about their proposed ventures. I would like to acknowledge the leadership of OCC Past President Penny Pavlou (1979) in the establishment of the OCFG Program.

While I can only provide a small snapshot here, I am delighted that we now have a vibrant and active presence on social media via Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn where Old Collegians can connect and stay up to date with news, events and opportunities from the OCC. Our monthly ‘Flashback Friday’ posts from the MLC Archives and our ‘Star of the Month’ posts featuring Old Collegians who have accomplished something special are proving particularly popular.

Our quarterly eNews emails are also now well established as another way to keep our community up to date (update your email address with us if you would like to receive these). I would like to acknowledge OCC Past President Gabrielle Lim (2008) for her leadership in establishing our social media presence and our eNews updates.

There is great breadth and opportunity for Old Collegians to be involved and stay connected through the OCC. I invite you to engage with us in any way that suits you.

Best wishes Anne Turner (1988) President, Old Collegians’ Club

The OCC is proud to announce our OCFG recipients for 2021:

Congratulations Nine Old Collegians were awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Margaret Adams (Connor 1954) for service to the community of Boroondara.

Deborah Halpern (1974) for service to the arts.

Josie Millard (1985) for service to rowing.

Jocelyn McCallum (Houghton 1965) The Supporting Women to Create a Positive Future venture will assist 16 vulnerable women to be job ready and gain employment.

Kaye Roberts-Thomson (Williams 1965) for service to dentistry, and to the community.

Helen Shardey (Brain 1962) for service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Lesley Sowell (David 1949) for service to the community of the South Coast.

Lesley Tan (Andrew 1953) for service to audiology.

Jacqueline Wright (Chong 1979) for service to international health.

Valerie Yule (East 1945, deceased) for service to psychology as a clinician and author.

Sarah Cavenagh (Brook 2007) Through the Quilts of Love venture, quilts are donated by quilters to show care and support for those caught in a natural disaster.

2022 dates for your diary International Women’s Day Welcome Event Wednesday, 9 March from 6.30 pm Annual General Meeting Tuesday, 29 March from 7:00 pm Annual Chapel Service and Lunch Saturday, 16 July from 11:00 am Young Alumnae Event Thursday, 11 August from 7:00 pm OCC Celebration Event Wednesday, 12 October from 6.30 pm

Alexandra Murphy (2005) The SMART-BREAST venture will help in the development of a smart phone-based app for cardiovascular risk reduction in breast cancer patients.

Annual Golf Day Monday, 10 October from 8.00 am Correct at time of print.

Please confirm final dates for 2022 at mlc.vic.edu.au/occevents

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Alumnae stories Celebrating the diverse journeys across our community of Old Collegians

Jo Ong (2010)

Fiona Rigg (1982)

Jo joined MLC as a boarder in 2007 and completed the International Baccalaureate in 2010. She went onto the University of Melbourne, graduating with majors in criminology and sociology. While at university, Jo was the event manager for the Singapore Student Society, where she helped facilitate international mixers between the student community, providing opportunities for people of different cultures and backgrounds to meet. She was also involved in an organisation helping to build houses for the Indigenous community in Malaysia.

After leaving MLC, Fiona studied visual merchandising and worked for several years for a fashion import company. She moved to London in 1988 but didn’t hesitate when the chance came to follow her passion for food, taking up an opportunity to study at Cordon Bleu and then with restauranteur, Prue Leith.

After finishing her undergraduate degree, Jo had the opportunity to dabble in the tech scene and served an internship at a start-up in Singapore, where she had her first taste of digital marketing. Fast forward six years and she is now an associate director at advertising agency and storytelling engine, Vaynermedia. Her role includes client service and account management for a global FMCG company. Jo met and married her husband in Singapore and plans to continue living and working there for the foreseeable future.

Recalling her years at MLC, Jo remembers meeting and connecting with inspiring females from all over the world, who taught her that ‘anything is possible!’ Learning from great teachers was another highlight, as was contributing as a photographer to Silver and Green. Jo made lifelong friends at MLC and continues to value the diversity of the curriculum and student body, which she says helped her develop transferable global skills.

After returning to Australia, Fiona combined her two passions by studying interior design and then food styling at RMIT. A successful career as a food stylist and recipe developer followed but nothing came close to the joy she experienced when she created a range of healthy dog biscuits and spa treatments. As a result, she established her award-winning brand PAWDinkum. Fiona continues to advocate for the importance of a healthy diet for dogs and earlier this year Hardie Grant Books published her healthy dog cookbook that she co-wrote: My Dog Eats Better Than Me. She gets much more excited talking about liver treats for dogs than foie gras for humans.

Fiona has two sons, Alex and Charles, and lives on the Mornington Peninsula with her husband and two dogs. When she’s not in her purpose-built kitchen creating recipes, she is teaching yoga – another great passion of hers – in local studios. Fiona loves to travel when permitted and was grateful before borders closed to travel to Goa, India, the birthplace of yoga. Here, she immersed herself in further study and training, gaining a deeper understanding of the foundations of this unique spiritual practice.

Fiona remembers the encouragement she received at MLC to ‘have a go at what really interests you’ and attributes her subsequent life path to having learned and applied this valuable lesson.

She recalls being encouraged by her drama teachers to join House Drama, which she loved, becoming Cato House Drama Captain and winning the House Drama Festival.

26 The Star November 2021

Alex Sinickas (2001)

Rebecca Adam (1988)

Based in Bright, in the Victorian High Country, Alex is the founder of health-tech startup, Milkdrop. The fledgling company is pioneering products designed to revolutionise the experience of pumping breast milk.

After graduating from MLC in 1988, Rebecca went on to study law and commerce at the University of Melbourne, becoming the first signing deaf person in Australia to be admitted to practice with the Supreme Court of Victoria.

After leaving MLC, Alex completed a Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne and a Master of Applied Science at the University of Calgary.

She met her Canadian husband, Andrew, in New Zealand.

The couple lived together in Canada for five years while Alex was researching snow and avalanches as part of her masters degree. With her passion for problem-solving, Alex’s varied engineering career has seen her work on everything from construction sites to research programs on city design.

It was when Rebecca was a student MLC that she first decided to study law. She credits the amazing Juliet Christophers (MLC’s Deaf Integration Unit Co-ordinator) for the encouragement and support to pursue her dreams. She believes that MLC ‘lost a jewel in the crown’ when Juliet passed away too soon in 2005.

After the birth of her daughter, Greta (now two), Alex found expressing breast milk via a pump to be both painful and unpleasant. She began prototyping her own design, using 3D printing and pouring silicone and testing over and over again.

In 2021, Milkdrop launched its first product to rave reviews – a soft silicone cushion that stretches over breast pump heads to make them softer, more natural feeling and far more comfortable for women. Alex is now focused on the launch of the Milkdrop breast pump, which is set for release mid-2022.

With Milkdrop named in the latest Startmate Accelerator cohort, Alex was one of 51 female founders to receive a grant from the Boosting Female Founders Initiative from the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.

Rebecca has held senior leadership roles in the private, public and not for profit sectors. A common thread in her career has been her drive to positively impact the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people in Australia. She has taken this passion to the international stage, through her role as an international ambassador for the Deaflympics.

Rebecca lives in Western Australia and is currently the CEO of Access Plus, the largest provider of individualised services to deaf and hard of hearing people. In this role, she works closely with the WA Government to ensure that important announcements are made available in Australian Sign Language, raising the bar for access and inclusion by governments and the media.

As an MLC student, Alex was involved in the music program, loved MLC Marshmead and enjoyed learning French. She recalls her exchange to Grenoble in Year 11 as a particular highlight and remembers the MLC environment as one that fostered curiosity and confidence to try new things and learn from new people.

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Alumnae stories Adele Peek (2004)

Emily Teng (2004)

Following her time at MLC, Adele successfully obtained a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in art history at the University of Melbourne. She then returned to her grandmother’s country Yawuru (Broome, Western Australia), where she has since worked across the arts, youth, education and training industries. In everything she does, Adele applies her twin passions: education and removing barriers for participation.

After leaving MLC at the end of Year 9, Emily moved to Singapore where she graduated from the Australian International School in 2004. She worked in the media industry and hosted her own radio shows for eight years before moving full time into the social impact space. At just 20, Emily had kick-started an initiative that evolved into an award-winning non-profit organisation called Blessings in a Bag. It is founded on the belief that every child has a right to opportunities, loving support and space to build their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Adele fondly remembers her years as a boarder at MLC. She made lifelong friendships, which she treasures to this day.

Facing the challenge of being away from home and outside of her comfort zone gave Adele the confidence, attitude and skills she has needed to succeed in the years since she left school.

Adele has travelled the world, built her own home and is most proud of her daughter Stevie, as well as the business she has created in partnership with her sister called The Cultural Intelligence Project (TCIP). TCIP is a collective of outlets that promotes ways for conscious business to become core to all brands and organisations. Transforming mindsets to achieve positive change is at the heart of TCIP’s purpose and mission.

Adele credits MLC with providing her a pathway towards further education and considers her time at the College as the starting point on her lifelong education journey. She was one of the first recipients of an MLC Indigenous Scholarship, which at the time was provided via a partnership between the College and the University of Melbourne. Adele says MLC helped her understand, from a young age, the need to be able to walk in two worlds.

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Emily has been widely recognised for her community action.

Among a host of awards, in 2019 she received the Singapore President’s Philanthropy and Volunteer Award for rallying community spirit. She was named one of the world’s most inspiring leaders by Facebook in 2019 alongside other global community leaders.

Emily married in 2019 and relocated to the USA that same year.

She’s currently based in the San Francisco North Bay Area with her husband and two dogs. She continues to remote-lead Blessings in a Bag and is working to launch a new initiative called WellWithinGood, which gathers and supports community leaders and change makers to rest, reimagine and re-align with what matters.

Emily is grateful for her years as an MLC student. She recalls the excitement of having her own laptop, of advocating for social causes, and of having opportunities to explore and discover what she was curious about. Learning to play the trombone, attending MLC Marshmead and joining the choir were among her highlights. Emily credits MLC with giving her the confidence to take a risk and start her own non-profit.

Supporting causes like Amnesty International or a friend’s bake sale at school helped cultivate her values of love, service and commitment to the greater good.

Reunions Earlier this year, we were delighted to welcome Old Collegians back on campus as we resumed our Reunion program. This was short-lived due to the ongoing and uncertain nature of lockdowns and event restrictions in Victoria, beginning in June.

2022 Reunion dates for your diary 5 Year Reunion (Class of 2017) Thursday, 3 February

In August, we made the difficult decision to cancel all in-person Reunions for the remainder of 2021. Our heartfelt thanks go out to those who were unable to celebrate their Reunion in-person, for their understanding. It is a great honour for the MLC Advancement Team to provide all Old Collegians with a program that fosters friendships around the world, and provides opportunities to renew old friendships and meet other like-minded alumnae.

25 Year reunion (Class of 1997) Saturday, 5 February

In place of in-person events, we have developed a Reunion Package for those whose Reunions were cancelled. The Reunion Package has been designed to help our Old Collegians to ‘reminisce remotely’ and celebrate their important Reunion milestones at a time when we are unable to come together in-person. We have included Reunion news booklets, MLC trivia and Silver & Green content from the Archives.

35 Year Reunion (Class of 1987) Saturday, 26 February

While we are missing our Old Collegians on campus, we look forward to 2022 and to safely resuming our Reunion program. If your Reunion is scheduled to take place in 2022, please take note of the dates in the right hand column and ‘save the date’. Reunion invitations are sent six weeks prior to your event.

10 Year Reunion (Class of 2012) Thursday, 17 February 30 Year Reunion (Class of 1992) Saturday, 19 February

20 Year Reunion (Class of 2002) Friday, 4 March 45 Year Reunion (Class of 1977) Saturday, 19 March 40 Year Reunion (Class of 1982) Saturday, 7 May 60 Year Reunion (Class of 1962) Saturday, 6 August

If you are interested in becoming involved in your Reunion, please consider taking on the role of a Class Ambassador. Duties are simple and include:

50 Year Reunion (Class of 1972) Saturday, 13 August

– Reaching out to those in your year group to tell them about the Reunion and encourage them to attend

1 Year Reunion (Class of 2021) Thursday, 18 August

– Attending yourself and bring along your friends

55 Year Reunion (Class of 1967) Saturday, 27 August

– Assisting with locating ‘lost contacts’ – providing us with contact details for any names you may recognise within your year list.

If you are interested in becoming a Class Ambassador, please contact Nikki Mackay, Alumnae Relations Co-ordinator by emailing alumnae@mlc.vic.edu.au or call + 61 3 9274 6357

Silver Circle Reunion (Classes of 1921-1961) Saturday, 8 October 15 Year Reunion (Class of 2007) Thursday, 20 October Correct at time of print. Please confirm final dates for 2022 at mlc.vic.edu.au/reunions

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Community notices Engagements Brigette Jones (2014) to Matthew Danaher.

Marriages Georgia Boreckyi (2010) married Samantha Lee-Birch on 8 May 2021.

MLC guests included sister Ashleigh Boreckyi (2007) and bridesmaid Maelle Doublier (2010). Other MLC guests included Nathalie Brown, Veronica Cooke, Tara Leigh and Nadia Okraglik (all 2010), Lola Jennings-Edquist (2011) and Jessica Brown (2012).

Lysanne McNeill (2008) married Toby Wilson on 3 July 2021. MLC guests included bridesmaid Chloe Dempsey (2008), mother of the bride Alyson McNeill (Boyd 1977), sisters Amy Smith (McNeill 2004) and Sallie McNeill (2006) and sister in law and current MLC staff member Katie McNeill (Bond 2000). Other MLC guests included aunts Heather Bach (Boyd 1970), Keren Boyd (1974) and Fiona Dowling (Boyd 1982) and Rebecca Akse, current MLC staff member.

Kristin Hamer (2000) married David Ryan on 6 June 2020. MLC guests included Belinda Hand (Foo) and Aingela Newton (Prokop), (both 2000).

To Nick and Beck Brown (Weir 2006), a son, Lewis Ross, born 21 May 2020 in Los Angeles. A grandson for Sue Wooldridge (1977), a nephew for Hannah Weir (2008), a great-grandson for Anne Wooldridge (Goldsworthy 1949) and a great-nephew for Jenny O’Sullivan (Wooldridge 1980) and Mary Wooldridge (1984).

To Katherine Brown (2000) and Valjean Boynton, a daughter, Lily Katherine Boynton, born 21 April 2021. A sister for Harry and a niece for Caroline Brown (2002) and Emma Brown (2006).

To Sam and Brittany Groth (Boys 2012), twin sons, Mason and Parker, born 10 April 2021. Great grandchildren to Val Prince (West 1949) and nephews for Jacinta Boys (2009).

Lysanne McNeill (2008).

Georgia Boreckyi (2010).

Births

Sarah Travis (2013) married Bradley Dunn in Townsville on 8 May 2021. MLC guests included mother of the bride Helen Vokach-Brodsky (1973) and sisters Laura Travis (2013), Susan Travis (2011) and Clare Travis (2014). Other MLC attendees included bridesmaid Maddy Balson (2013), Stephanie Clark (2012) and Stephanie Allen (2013). Sarah’s grandmother, Helen (Peg) Travis (Shaw 1942, deceased) was present in memory on the day.

To Kristin Hamer-Ryan (Hamer 2000) and David Ryan, a twin daughter and son, Alice Elizabeth Rose and Charles (Charlie) David Angas Hamer-Ryan, born 3 July 2020. Younger siblings for Max. To Michael and Stefanie Houghton (Maccar 2005), a son, James Andrew, born 26 February 2021. A brother for Emma and Sophie and a nephew for Simone Maccar (2008) and Jessica Houghton (2007).

To Martin and Shelley Lipshut (Sutherland 2007), a son, Elliot John, born 14 January 2021. A nephew for Erin Lipshut (2003) and Lucy Erftemeyer (Lipshut 2005), a great nephew for Alison Lipshut (Falla 1968) and a second cousin for Angela Allen (Lipshut 1994).

To Brooke Streatfeild (1997), a daughter, Evie Mae, born 8 December 2020. A niece for Shaun Brown (Streatfeild 1999).

Delivered by Dr Gene-Lyn Ngian (1999).

To Paul and Samantha White (Gerrand 2003), a daughter, Francesca Elizabeth, born 20 January 2021. A sister for Patrick and a niece for Georgia Koehne (current MLC student).

Kristin Hamer (2000).

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Sarah Travis (2013).

We welcome the submission of community notices from all MLC alumnae. To learn more about the notices that we can accept or to submit a notice, please visit: mlc.vic.edu.au/communitynotices

In memory MLC has learnt of the following deaths in our community. We extend sincere condolences to their family and friends.

Nerolie Aujard (Munt 1961) passed away on 4 June 2021. Mother of Trudi Wooller (Aujard 1987), grandmother of Sophie Wooller (2019) and sister of Glenyss MacKenzie (Munt 1965, deceased) and Rhonda Ryan (Munt 1973, deceased).

Karolina Amon (1998) passed away on 14 May 2021. Sister of Ildi Amon (2004).

Pamela Anderson (Robinson 1974) passed away on 16 June 2021. Sister of Jenni Robinson (1972, deceased).

Estelle Bailey (Nicholls 1946) passed away on 7 June 2021. Mother of Fiona McKenzie (1980), sister of Beverley Wong (Nicholls 1948, deceased), daughter of Winnie Nicholls (Gardner 1919, deceased), granddaughter of Felicia Gardner (Berry 1890, deceased), grandniece of Lydia Berry (1893, deceased) and Millicent Berry (1895, deceased), niece of Editha Adlam (Gardner 1914, deceased) and Estella Dunn (Gardner 1916, deceased). Estelle’s great-grandfather, Henry Berry, was a College benefactor and member of the MLC Council until 1923. Berry House was named after him in 1937 and still carries his name.

Helen Barr (Ansett 1950) passed away on 16 March 2021. Sister of Margaret Crozier (Ansett 1952), cousin of Anne McLeod (Ditterich 1959), Helen Williams (Ditterich 1961) and Elizabeth Fraser (Ditterich 1965).

Margaret Beurle (Barber 1944) passed away on 17 March 2021. Mother of Claire Cooksey (Beurle 1975) and sister of Janet Hay (Beurle 1948).

Patricia (Paddy) Broberg (Dixson 1955) passed away on 1 October 2020. Paddy was an MLC Junior School staff member from 1961 – 1969. Mother of Kristin Broberg (1984).

Valerie Chatwin (Rowe 1944) passed away on 20 July 2021. Daughter of Erica Rowe (Phillips 1912, deceased), mother of Rhonda Knight (Chatwin 1969), sister of Enid Woodhouse (Rowe 1946, deceased) and Ainslie Hudson (Rowe 1951) and niece of Roma Palmer (Phillips 1919, deceased), Ailsa Keys (Phillips 1921, deceased) and Alva Woodfull (Phillips 1924, deceased). Aunt of Dianne Montague (1974) and Rosemary Montague (1986), step aunt of Andrea Fernleigh (Woodhouse 1970) and cousin of Jean Woodfull (1957, deceased), Janice Campbell (Palmer 1955, deceased), Elaine Rumpf (Palmer 1951), Beres Witt (Phillips 1937, deceased), Shirley Wilson (Phillips 1939, deceased), Dersa Smith (Phillips 1940, deceased) and Audrey Baker (Fleming 1945, deceased).

Claire Chlebnikowski (McIlroy 1966) passed away on 19 December 2018.

Mother of Anna Blamey (Chlebnikowski 2000) and grandmother of Katherine Lancefield and Natasha Lancefield (current students).

Valda Clarke (1939) passed away on 10 April 2021.

Joy Iolanthe Clinch (Richmond 1947) passed away on 6 May 2021. Mother of Dr Robyn Clinch (1976).

Gayle Corr OAM (McGregor 1964) passed away on 9 April 2021. Sister of Janice Hobson (McGregor 1957).

Dorothy Cram (Aldred 1950) passed away on 24 April 2021.

Aylsa Dickinson (Gellie 1945) passed away on 13 May 2021. Daughter of Alice Gellie (1922, deceased), niece of Beryl Watt (1927, deceased), sister of Helen Brookes (Gellie 1948, deceased), sister in law of Janet Gellie (Huntington 1951) and grandmother of Emily King (2003).

Joan Earle (Wright 1948) passed away on 26 April 2021. Mother of Marion Power (Earle 1973) and Elizabeth Earle (1979).

Sister of Robyn Farren-Price (Wright 1946, deceased) and aunt of Catherine Hall (Farren-Price 1973, deceased) and Louise Pascal-Orpe (Farren-Price 1976).

Lyndell Fahey (Allen 1964) passed away on 20 October 2020. Mother of Lauren Fahey (1984), Danielle McNeil (Fahey 1986) and Vanessa Fahey (1991).

Beth Gifford (Falconer 1949) passed away on 17 March 2020.

Frances Harris (1967) passed away in England on 17 February 2021.

Judith Huber (Sleep 1955) passed away on 28 April 2021. Daughter of Cora Sleep (Warren 1921, deceased), granddaughter of Annie Warren (Lang 1888, deceased), niece of Nancy Gellie (Warren 1928, deceased), cousin of Marjorie Orgill (Warren 1954), Patricia Schmidt (Gellie 1954, deceased) and Cath McLeish (Warren 1956) and sister in law of Beverley Sleep (Goff 1965).

Lesley Hutchison (1973) passed away on 1 August 2021. Sister of Noel Hutchison (1974).

Ann Jenkin (Miller 1956) passed away on 8 February 2021.

Dorothy Kemp (Hay 1946) passed away on 23 March 2021. Mother of Rosemary Douglas (Kemp 1977).

Sandra Le Gassick (Skeen 1960) passed away on 5 August 2021. Mother of Kristen Le Gassick (1988), daughter of Ailsa Hogben (Perry 1937, deceased) and sister of Sue Mountain (Skeen 1965).

Ann Lorimer (Baker 1955) passed away on 19 April 2021. Sister of Sue Lightbody (Baker 1957) and mother of Jenny Merritt (Lorimer 1980), Megan Aedy (Lorimer 1981) and Jane Lorimer (1984).

Daughter of Nancy Breen (Cole 1931, deceased) and niece of Patricia Place (Cole 1926, deceased).

Val Muller (Holm 1956) passed away on 1 August 2020. Sister of Jill Tabart (Holm 1958).

Barbara Reid (Smith 1951) passed away on 7 August 2021. Mother of Diane Pritchard (Reid 1975) and Janette Blain (Reid 1981). Sister of Margaret Comer (Smith 1955) and Lynette Judkins (Smith 1958).

Barbara Rich (McIntyre 1948) passed away on 10 August 2020.

Janette Shelton (Helstroom 1953) passed away on 7 December 2020.

Fairlie Szacinski (Apperly 1950), passed away on 28 July 2021. Sister of Rosemary Davis (Apperly 1944, deceased) and Prudence Joske (Apperly 1946, deceased).

Joy Weatherill (Fryer 1962) passed away on 28 March 2021.

Denise Webb (Clarke 1944) passed away on 3 June 2021. Mother of Robin Crew (Webb 1966), Valerie Goldsworthy (Webb 1970) and Jan Proposch (Webb 1972) and grandmother of Tamara Webb (2012).

Virginia Weekes (1966) passed away on 4 April 2020. Sister of Diana Weekes (1962). Virginia was an MLC staff member from 1996 - 2006.

Janice Wigg (Prentice 1954) passed away on 6 August 2021. Mother of Rosalyn Long (Wigg 1978), Elizabeth Lowe (Wigg 1983) and Amanda McDonald (Wigg 1986) and sister of Diane Jeanes (Prentice 1958) and Anthea Menzel (Prentice 1961).

Marjorie Wilson (Thomas 1940) passed away on 3 February 2021. Mother of Robyn Brasher (Wilson 1971) and Merrin Wingfield (Wilson 1977).

Beverley Woodford (Hunt 1950) passed away on 10 December 2020.

Tribute Olgar Milford A much-loved member of the MLC staff for 11 years, Olgar Milford served in the roles of College Chaplain, Senior School House Co-ordinator and Teacher of Religion.

New Zealand born, Olgar initially worked as an analytical chemist before studying teaching (in Auckland) and theology (in Los Angeles). Moving to Australia, she first came to MLC as a casual relief teacher before joining the staff full time.

Olgar loved being part of MLC’s diverse community. She enjoyed helping students develop their personal world view, as well as the compassion to understand the world views of others.

She went above and beyond for her students and her colleagues and brought a relentless positivity and focus on wellbeing to her roles. She passed away on 27 July 2021.

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