Fintona File | Autumn/Winter 2023

FINTONA FILE

AUTUMN / WINTER 2023

The Bi-Annual Magazine of Fintona Girls’ School

CONTENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS

To see upcoming community events and add them to your calendar, scan the QR code or visit fintona.vic.edu.au/events.

fgs@fintona.vic.edu.au

fintona.vic.edu.au

Editors Cameron Arnold Kate McPhee

Front Cover

Commissioned painting of a portrait in Fintona's archives by artist in residence Grace Stevenson.

Back Cover ELC students learning about life cycles with chickens

Contributors

Thank you to Fintona staff, students, parents and OFA members for their articles, stories and photos.

CONNECT WITH FINTONA

Stay up to date with our community online.

Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

SHARE YOUR NEWS

We love to share special and significant achievements from the Fintona community. Please send your news to Kate McPhee, Communications and Community Officer at news@fintona.vic.edu.au.

JOIN THE OFA FACEBOOK GROUP

Please join the Old Fintonians’ Alumni Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/ofafintona to keep up to date with Alumni news including reunion dates and photos.

SCHOOL TOURS

Discover how Fintona unearths the extraordinary in every individual at one of our school tours in 2023.

Tuesday 8 August from 9.15am

Thursday 12 October from 9.15am

Register on our website or contact the Registrar on 9830 1388.

BELONGING: A TRUE GIFT

The Fintona family or Fintona community is a common topic of conversation amongst Old Fintonians. Being part of such a group creates a sense of belonging that begins at the point of enrolment and extends beyond the years at school.

A sense of belonging has well documented benefits including better physical and mental health, improved academic achievement, occupational and career success, and more positive social relationships.

In a recent review of the academic research on belonging, by Kelly-Ann Allen and her colleagues (1), it is suggested that multiple processes must converge for a stable sense of belonging to emerge and support wellbeing and other positive outcomes. They use the example of a successful singer who has the motivation to sing, and the skills and ability needed to sing well in addition to confidence, opportunities to sing, and support by others. It is these elements and processes that are provided and encouraged at Fintona that lead to a strong, steady sense of belonging.

At Fintona, students are given opportunities to belong every day. Within an average week, a Year 8 girl will participate in a Senior Campus assembly, a smaller Tutor Group within her year level, a House meeting with students from all year levels and a Middle School assembly with students from Year 5 to Year 8.

In classrooms, students develop the competencies of belonging, such as verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening and being aware of oneself and others. These skills are taught and learned through strategies such as group work, role play and whole-class discussions.

The many co-curricular opportunities available to our students allow them to find a pursuit or passion such as gardening, cooking, debating or choir, that they can share with like-minded individuals and thus belong to smaller interest driven groups or clubs.

Spaces that enable belonging to occur are important at Fintona. The Tourmont Courtyard is a well-used meeting and event space connected to the long history of the School. The beautiful light-filled library and the shared spaces in the Annie Hughston Centre serve as popular gathering spots. The Year 11 and 12 Common Rooms are also places where many experiences are shared and remembered.

Shared events develop a sense of belonging to something bigger than the individual.

Shakespeare Day has been an annual event at Fintona for more than 84 years. The annual induction of Senators as

Senior leaders in the School is an ongoing tradition. Other events such as House competitions, Cabaret Night, the School Play and the Music Concert give students the opportunity to perform, collaborate and support others.

Fintona develops a sense of belonging by providing multiple opportunities to join in and be part of shared events. Interaction with others is encouraged from both within and outside year levels. Connection to the physical spaces of the School and the shared individual and collective experiences make belonging to the Fintona community a true gift.

Ruth McKinnon Acting Principal

1. Kelly-Ann Allen, Margaret L. Kern, Christopher S. Rozek, Dennis M.McInerney & George M. Slavich (2021) Belonging: a review of conceptual issues, an integrative framework, and directions for future research, Australian Journal of Psychology, 73:1, 87-102.,

2022 VCE RESULTS

2 Congratulations to the Fintona Class of 2022. Once again, students achieved outstanding results across a wide range of subjects.

Principal Rachael Falloon said, ‘I am so delighted for the Class of 2022. As a cohort they celebrated others, embraced countless opportunities and challenges, and led with distinction.

‘While this academic achievement is but one facet of a Fintona education, we are nevertheless extremely proud of the results of this cohort and excited for the paths that lie ahead for them.’

This year, Fintona was ranked first in Victoria for the percentage of students achieving an ATAR of 99 or higher (top 1% of the state).

The Class of 2022 have continued to follow their passions in their tertiary studies, selecting the university and course destinations that best align with their unique interests.

'It is my great privilege to work with such amazing students and to see the development over their school years of their passions and interests. To be able to assist them to foster these and select university courses that complement them is very rewarding,' reflected Suzanne

Hannebery, Careers Coordinator.

Perfect Study scores were achieved in

– Art

– Chemistry

– Economics

– English

– Visual Communication Design

An ATAR of 99 +

COURSE DESTINATIONS

20% Health Sciences & Allied Health

20% Science & Engineering

14% Arts

14% Business/ Commerce UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS

43% 10%

29 % 2 %

12 %

An ATAR of 90

2 %

2 %

8% Design & Fine Arts

8% Law

8% Medicine / Biomedicine

4% Education

2% Music Performance

An ATAR of 96 + 3 Fintona File | Autumn / Winter 2023

FROM THE CONSULS

As the 2023 School Consuls, our aim for this year is to promote an inclusive environment focusing on mutual respect and wellbeing.

Following a brilliant first full year back without lockdowns last year, in 2023 we aim to continue to strengthen connections between staff, students, and the broader Fintona community. To achieve this, we have set several key goals and focus areas embracing inclusivity, interconnectedness, wellbeing and respect.

Almost halfway through the school year, together with our fellow Senators, we have already seen the development and implementation of some wonderful activities and initiatives. We have begun tutor presented assemblies, with the Year 12 tutor groups presenting on various topics such as bullying and cultural diversity. These presentations will continue throughout the year with students in Years 9 to 12 presenting to the Senior School. In addition

to providing an opportunity for inclusivity, this will also allow many students to further develop their public speaking skills.

As part of our wellbeing initiatives, we intend to celebrate ‘R U OK? Day’. This is a day dedicated to recognising mental health and acknowledging the importance of reaching out to others. To honour this day, we, along with our fellow Senators, will conduct an assembly explaining what R U OK? Day represents and the importance of mental health. We will also be arranging a lunch along with team activities to encourage students to share their own experiences and engage in reflective conversations.

Another planned project is the Year 12 legacy. The Year 12 cohort have been working to develop a project which aims to provide the School with a parting gift as

a way of expressing gratitude. We have been exploring options such as donating a tree or creating a flower garden. The project also aims to establish a tradition for future Year 12 cohorts.

We are grateful for the opportunity to act as School Consuls for 2023 and to work with our fellow Senators and the Fintona community to achieve our aims and goals. We look forward to what the rest of the year will bring.

Jemima and Jessica School Consuls

PURSUING A PASSION FOR POLITICS

The 28th Annual National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC) provided me with the opportunity to go to Canberra to work alongside 120 students from across the country, discussing and debating the relevance of the Australian Constitution in 2023. Specifically, we analysed Article 128 on modern society, an article that this year, given the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum, has specific relevance, as it discusses the mode of alterations to the Constitution.

In a series of discussions and keynote speeches, which are being presented through a communique to the Senate and recorded in Hansard, we established the reasons for the double majority system, and explored alternatives to this, considering the logistical repercussions of any changes. The program culminated in us holding our own mock-referendum, whereby we voted on whether the benchmark for constitutional change should be amended to a simple majority. This referendum failed, as both the majority of students and states voted against the proposed change. In fact, no state had a majority 'yes' vote, only the two territories, who under the current system, are not considered in the double majority.

Not only was the intellectual portion of the program engaging, but the other sections of the program were similarly fascinating. These included guided tours of Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy and the High Court of Australia, which further inspired my interest in the systems and documents that provide both the foundations and the support for governance within our country. A personal highlight, and a moment that captured the attention of many,

was Question Time. We were fortunate to witness Peter Dutton denouncing Nazism, and affirming his support for anti-Nazism legislation, in the wake of Moira Deeming’s attendance at a Victorian anti-trans NeoNazi demonstration. The entire session was enrapturing, a front-row view into the workings of government.

Above all, I believe that the program, which I was encouraged by staff to apply in order to pursue my passion for politics, was an incredible opportunity to stimulate discussion amongst young people with a common interest, from an incredibly diverse range of backgrounds. As young Australians, having an awareness of and involvement in politics is integral to creating the future we wish to see, and the NSCC supports the achievement of this. I wish to bring back to Fintona a willingness to provide a forum for this conversation, which is not always easy to have, or to reach a consensus on, but is nonetheless integral to ensuring a more holistic education and understanding of the systems that facilitate our lifestyles.

Yasmin Year 12

THE LOVE OF THREE ORANGES

For those who saw it, The Love of Three Oranges was a great night of laughter, music, dance, and crazy hair and costumes. For the show’s cast and crew, which I was honoured to be a part of, it was four months of rehearsals, line learning, choreographing, practising, and perfecting to bring this show to our community. I would like to thank every member of the cast for their hard work and dedication this year, and our talented crew (Zoe, Tori, Izzy, Emma, and Chloe) for making it all happen; as well as the invaluable Mr Batterham and the brilliant Ms Bye for creating a show to remember.

Charlotte, Year 12

One of the most wonderful aspects of teaching at Fintona is the opportunity to get to know students across many year levels. Our small size and community feel definitely encourage our students to collaborate regardless of age or year level. This diversity was central to the annual School Play, The Love of Three Oranges, in 2023. Having cast members and technical crew from Years 7 to 12 fostered leadership and mentorship in the more experienced students and offered the many cast members appearing in their first production the chance to learn about theatre in a supportive and enthusiastic environment. Everyone involved worked very hard to bring this play to life but we had a lot of fun along the way. I am proud of our students for their creativity as actors, dancers and technicians, as well their diligence, kindness and inclusiveness.

If you were fortunate enough to see the play this year, you were able to watch this fantastic group in action for 90 minutes. I was even more fortunate as I had the opportunity to see them in action for many months, over many afternoons and many, many dance rehearsals and, as I expressed to them, it was a complete joy.

Events like these mark moments in students’ school lives and, after the final performance, it was lovely to hear the three Year 12 girls, Charlotte, Yasmin and Paige express to the cast and crew this sentiment and just how much school plays have meant to them throughout their time at Fintona. Such special events create memories that will stay with Fintonians and their families forever. Needless to say, we are all looking forward to the School Play in 2024.

Bronwyn Bye Drama Learning Leader / Director

LAURA SHINES BRIGHT AT EUROPEAN GIRLS’ MATHEMATICS OLYMPIAD

Year 10 student Laura has made her mark on the international mathematics stage at the 2023 European Girls' Mathematics Olympiad (EGMO) in Portorož, Slovenia. Laura not only claimed a gold medal at the prestigious event but achieved a perfect score, ranking equal first. She was the youngest competitor in the world to achieve this remarkable feat.

Laura’s selection for the Australian EGMO team followed a rigorous process through the Australian Maths Trust’s (AMT) Olympiad Program. Laura was elated after her selection was announced earlier this year. ‘Very surprised and excited, and also very nervous,' she said when asked about her reaction to making the team.

‘I was nervous because I'd never been to any international competition before, nor had I ever been on a flight halfway around the world!’ Despite her nerves, Laura embraced the challenge, joining students from 55 countries on this exciting adventure.

The Australian team equalled its best result in the competition, ranking third overall behind China and the United States.

‘I am very happy that [the students’] months of hard work, creativity and persistence have paid off,’ said Nathan Ford, CEO of the Australian Maths Trust.

Outside of competing, Laura enjoyed getting to know her team and other students from around the world, and exploring Portoroz, including the ‘absolutely amazing’ ice-cream.

‘The scavenger hunt was really fun - we went around the city and did interesting puzzles

and challenges. I also really enjoyed the laser tag, despite not being very accurate,’ said Laura.

When her perfect result was announced, Laura was shocked. ‘Surprised would not even begin to cover it. It was also rather funny because I don't think I was checking the results at the time, so I just got a lot of messages from my friends and family.’

Looking ahead, Laura's calendar of mathematics events is not slowing down. While she eagerly awaits upcoming competitions such as the Australian

Mathematics Competitions (AMC) and the Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO), she is most excited for the next AMT December camp. ‘It's one of the only times I can meet other Maths Olympiad people face-to-face,’ she explained.

We congratulate Laura on her remarkable achievement and wish her the very best as she continues to do what she does well in maths.

SISTERS THRIVE IN ROWING

The Fintona Rowing program has provided the perfect environment for the sisters to thrive. Francesca describes it as ‘unique and inclusive’, highlighting the program's commitment to ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to excel. Madi adds that it feels like a family, a tight-knit community where bonds are formed, friendships are forged, and lifelong memories are created.

Reflecting on their experiences, Francesca and Madi share their most cherished memories. Francesca fondly recalls, ‘In 2022, going to the Nationals at Nagambie, and then in 2023 our crew's extremely challenging and competitive race at State Championships’. Madi's fondest memory is winning a medal with her partner Maggie in the double scull at the Heads of School Girls final in 2022.

In the world of rowing, where discipline, teamwork, and determination prevail, sisters Francesca (Year 12) and Madi (Year 11) have thrived.

From the start of their rowing journey in Year 8, Francesca and Madi embraced the challenges rowing presented. Francesca reminisces, ‘I loved trying something completely new to me and loved the team aspect of rowing’. Madi, on the other hand, recalls, ‘I enjoyed the challenge of being patient while learning a new sport and working as a team’.

The sisters attribute much of their growth and success to the values instilled in the Fintona Rowing program. Francesca acknowledges, ‘the commitment of the coaches to each individual’ has played a pivotal role in their development. Madi emphasises the program's focus on personal growth, saying, ‘It's not all about winning. It's so much more than that. Our program taught us to do our best, but reminds us that things don't always go to plan and that is OK, and then we get back to work’.

Like any siblings, Francesca and Madi admit to a healthy rivalry on the water. Their mother, Melanie, acknowledges, ‘Of course! Much like any siblings, but it was good to remind the girls to treat each other like any other squad member and put aside their sibling rivalry'.

Beyond the physical fitness and technical skills, rowing has taught the Spano sisters invaluable life lessons. Melanie highlights the program's emphasis on commitment, resilience, and time management. She explains, ‘The program at Fintona is about commitment to both yourself and to your crew, and teaches the girls resilience and to remain grounded’.

Looking ahead, Francesca, who, in her senior year, has served as the Captain of Boats is excited for the future after school. Madi eagerly anticipates her final season of school rowing next year, remarking, ‘Rowing is something that makes your heart happy! It has already led me to more opportunities outside of school. I am very grateful to have found rowing’.

To those considering rowing, Francesca, Madi, and their family wholeheartedly encourage them to take the leap. Melanie passionately asserts, ‘Don't even think twice about it! The benefits are so great, they far outweigh the early starts and training sessions. The pride and joy, and personal growth the girls experience from this program and the rowing season is immense, and unlike any other activity they have pursued during secondary school.'

Francesca concludes with a profound sentiment, encapsulating the essence of Fintona Rowing and its impact on their lives, saying, ‘The program enables every girl to push their limits and strive to contribute to the program to show what they do best. Rowing encapsulates the very essence of the Fintona motto “do what you do well”’.

EXTRAORDINARY ACHIEVEMENTS

SUCCESS ON THE WATER

Congratulations to School Consul and Year 12 student, Jemima who in January competed in the Australian Hobie Cat National Championships in Jervis Bay, NSW. Jemima and her sailing partner competed in 11 races over four days and were thrilled to place second in the Hobie Cat 16 Women’s Division.

‘Having started sailing when I was 9, this was a special highlight for me and I hope to compete in more regattas in the future,’ said Jemima.

For eight months of the year, Jemima trains every weekend and she’s looking forward to competing in the Victorian Hobie Cat Championships in March next year.

FIRST PLACE AT ROBOTICS COMPETITION

Congratulations to Gabi in Year 8 who was a member of a robotics team that won the Highest Rookie Seed Award in the South Cross Regional FIRST Australia Robotics Competition. The competition was held over three days in Wollongong and saw thirty teams of secondary school students competing to design, build, program and drive a robot.

Gabi has been interested in robotics since she was 9 years old and loves every aspect of it including sharing ideas with her teammates and working together as a group. Gabi said she found the competition a fun experience not only because her team won but she met teams from around the world.

SUCCESS IN THE POOL

Farida in Year 10 has been swimming competitively for five years and trains nine times a week at Surrey Park Swimming Club. At this year’s Victorian State Long Course Championships at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC), she received three silver medals in the 200m and 100m breaststroke, and 50m freestyle events and a bronze medal in the 4 x 100m freestyle relay.

Farida then headed up to Queensland for the Australian Age Swimming Championships in April and swam in the top five for the 100m and 200m breaststroke events. She is now aiming to gain a qualifying time to enable her to compete in the World Trials next year.

According to Farida, she loves the balance swimming brings to her life and finds that training is a healthy way to have a break from study. Congratulations Farida, good luck training for the World Trials.

CROSS COUNTRY TEAM MAKES HISTORY

Our Senior Cross Country team have defended their title by winning their age group at the Girls Sport Victoria (GSV) Championship Cross Country Carnival for the second year in a row, making history by taking out the first five places in Division 2 out of seven other schools. Congratulations to Sarah (1st), Zoe (2nd), Bella (3rd), Alice (4th) and Francesca (5th) on their outstanding performances.

Congratulations also to Lexi who came 1st and Ibby who came 5th in Division 2 of the Intermediate event.

And a special mention to Lexi , Year 9, Sarah, Year 11 and Zoe, Year 12 for placing in the top ten overall for their age groups across 24 GSV schools and over 250 competitors.

AN IMPRESSIVE LEGAL ARGUMENT

Congratulations to our Year 11 Mooting Team who were runners up in the finals of the Bond University High School Mooting Competition.

Open to students in Years 11 and 12, Mooting is a simulated appeal court proceeding where student teams are tasked with arguing one side of a legal problem, as well as responding in real time to questions from judges. In the final, our Mooting team were tested on their understanding of the law and the facts by two retired Queensland court judges and a Bond University law professor.

Fifty schools from across Australia and New Zealand competed in the heats, with eight teams making it through to the semi-finals and two to the finals. The Fintona team were so impressive in their legal arguments that they not only received Honourable Mentions for Advocacy in the heats but Amelia was awarded Runner Up Best Oralist in the finals.

‘The competition is a fantastic opportunity for students to compete with their peers in formulating legal arguments and receiving valuable feedback from legal experts,’ said VCE Legal Studies teacher, Fairlie Marsland.

‘The Cruden Farm course is definitely one of the tougher ones we’ve run, but it was amazing to get out there together and push through the hills and potholes and other obstacles and all run so well. Whilst we had some outstanding individual performances, we couldn’t have won without the rest of our Senior team, Shani, Sophie, Mathangi, Bella, and Mia anchoring us home,’ said Sports Captain, Zoe.

‘Francesca, Bella, Alice, Shani and I have been running together since Year 7 so for Fintona to not only qualify for Division 2 but to win the Senior trophy is very special and such a great way to finish off our cross country running for Fintona,’ she said.

L — R: Bella, Sarah, Francesca, Zoe, Alice, Ibby, Lexi

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Fintona’s Art Faculty recently welcomed back alumna Grace Stevenson (’19) as our artist in residence. Grace attended Fintona from Year 2 and graduated in 2019. After successfully completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts at the Victorian College of The Arts (VCA), Grace is now completing her Honours Degree through the VCA.

Grace, as a former student of Fintona, how did it feel to return as the School’s artist in residence?

It was surreal and nostalgic to return to Fintona, and such a privilege to be the artist in residence at the school. It was very exciting to see the other side of school, working as a teacher rather than being the student. It was such an enjoyable and memorable experience being back at Fintona, and to work with staff and teach students in familiar surroundings.

Can you tell us about the portraits you were commissioned to paint? What was the selection process and what were your goals in creating the paintings?

The portraits were made from the photos of two past students I found in Fintona’s archival collection. When I was searching for past students to paint, I was mainly looking for students in the old uniform, with clear symbols of Fintona. I wanted the portraits to represent Fintona’s past as well as bring them into the present day to act as a symbol for the ‘Fintona Girl’.

Your work combines portraiture and colours in a unique way. What drew you to this artistic approach?

I use glazes of colour in my portraits to give them more life. I first trialled this technique when I learnt about the ‘hand colouring’ technique used by photographers in the 19th century. The photographer would go back into the black and white photograph with inks and paints and add in subtle hints of colour to the photo to make it look more ‘life-like’.

Is there a particular message or emotion you hope to evoke in viewers through your artwork?

My artwork currently focuses on exploring human identity and mortality. My intention is to provoke thought and question what it means to be human. My portraits for the school embody this, as the portraits of past students are brought to life again and evoke an emotional response in viewers.

Are there any artists or artistic movements that have had a significant impact on your work? How have they influenced your artistic growth and exploration?

Gerhard Richter has had a significant impact on my work through his ideas of masking identity and his use of the found image. I am also inspired by the artist Michael Slusakowicz, who creates surreal portraits through his use of bright, artificial colours.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists at Fintona?

To pursue your passion to become an artist. Keep practising and never be afraid to experiment or make mistakes. This is how you grow as an artist and learn about what your true artistic goals are.

What are your future artistic goals and aspirations? Are there any upcoming projects or themes you are particularly excited to explore in your work?

I hope to be in more shows, continuing to share my art with the world and gain more exposure in the art community. I am currently looking at themes surrounding

human identity and how portraiture can immortalise us, and I am excited to be in a few upcoming art shows to explore these ideas further.

How can the Fintona community learn more about you and your work?

If you want to learn more or follow my artistic journey, the best way would be through social media. My Instagram — @grace.s1 shows all of my artwork and any current shows I am in.

‘Grace’s role as artist in residence has had a positive impact on the students, particularly in helping to dispel the myth of who can be an artist and importantly, what an artist actually does. Being an old girl, her time here highlighted potential tertiary and professional career paths for students who are considering moving on to an art and design field post Fintona. Grace's involvement with a number of classes, across the different campuses also supported students to broaden their technical and conceptual grasp of production techniques and materials.’

Brit Biviano, Art Learning Leader.

HATCHING A CURIOSITY FOR LIFE CYCLES

Recently, the Pre-Prep students in ELC explored the concept of life cycles and how living things grow and change over time. The children were introduced to a Chick Hatching Program, providing first-hand experience on how life begins for a chicken.

The unit of inquiry began with the arrival of an incubator containing eight eggs and a brooder box, which housed two chicks. The incubator and brooder box were set up in a shared studio space, allowing both Pre-Prep classes to freely observe the eggs and chicks over a two-week period.

The students enthusiastically observed the eggs in the incubator, eagerly waiting for them to hatch. ‘It’s cracking, it’s cracking on the top. We’re all waiting for you little chick,’ exclaimed Walter as the first chick began to hatch. Over the next two days, and much to the students’ amazement, the remaining seven eggs cracked. Each of the chicks successfully hatched, all looking slightly different to each other. There were stripey chicks, chicks of different shades of yellow, as well as some with black and grey feathers. During the hours after their hatching, the children observed the chicks’ feathers

changing from wet to dry and noticed the chicks becoming stronger, chirpier and more alert.

Alongside the hatching program, a variety of experiences were provided in the classroom, to support the children’s learning. The children were invited to draw a diagram of the life cycle, use playdough to depict the hatching process, and engage in role play re-enacting their observations of the chicks.

The inquiry concluded with a naming ceremony for each of the chicks and class discussions about our care and responsibility for the chicks. This experience proved a valuable learning opportunity for the students, who continue to discuss their observations of the chick hatching process as well as life cycles of other living things.

Charmian Harris & Georgie O’Meara ELC Teachers

BUDDY UP: FOSTERING COMMUNITY, ENHANCING LEARNING

The Buddy Program has been a part of the Junior Campus curriculum for many years. Beginning with Year 4 and Prep students to promote social and support networks and a sense of community and belonging, the program now includes all year levels from ELC to Year 4.

The benefits of the Buddy Program are twofold; the older children learn to take on responsibility, while the younger children know that they have a fellow student they can turn to for support and friendship. The program helps to promote relationships and support between older and younger students through regular collaboration between their classes and fosters a sense of community across the whole school.

According to Year 1 teacher, Emma Craig, ‘The Buddy Program is one of the highlights of the Junior Campus program because buddies look forward to seeing each other and participating in various activities.’

‘The Year 1 students approach their buddies in ELC with pure excitement and an instinctive sense of leadership, responsibility, and empathy. As a teacher, it is lovely to see the students work together to solve problems and have fun, while also providing staff with the opportunity to work alongside colleagues that we would not normally have the opportunity to work with,’ she said.

Different sessions are planned to incorporate developmental play, themed activities for special events, consolidation of learning concepts from the classroom, and provide opportunities for play at the ‘Big Girls’ playground. Activities that have run this year have included a scavenger hunt, pattern making out of natural objects found in the playground, visiting the chickens in ELC, and making Easter baskets in the art room.

Learning through play is a focus of the program; our older students learn valuable skills of leadership, compromise and empathy, and younger students have a supportive role model and special friend outside their peer group.

‘I like reading books with my buddy.’ Zoraver, ELC

‘I like when we play with our buddies. My buddy is Jacqueline.’ Harrison, ELC

‘I am excited about buddies because I love it when they want to show me everything.’ Victoria, Year 2

‘I love counting with my buddies. They are my friends.’ Katherine, Prep

Lara Dresser Prep

—

Year

6

Curriculum & Pedagogy Leader / Year 4 Teacher

LIFELONG MEMORIES AND A TOOLKIT OF SKILLS

The mission of Fintona’s Outdoor Education program is to provide students with the skills to contribute and participate in the ever-changing global community that will continue to pose new challenges.

The program, integral to a Fintona education for over 20 years, is designed to provide students with hands-on experiential learning. In addition to gaining an appreciation and understanding for how to protect our natural environments, students learn problem solving, communication and collaboration, leadership and resilience; valuable skills that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives.

All programs focus on ‘facilitating the achievement of human potential through outdoor experiences.’ (1)

Curriculum-based camps from Years 1-10 and co-curricular opportunities are underpinned by the wellbeing curriculum and are centred on building sustainability across three domains:

Self Sustainability — respect and responsibility for self

Community Sustainability — respect and responsibility for others

Environmental Sustainability — respect and responsibility for the natural environment

Students explore these domains through a range of activities including hiking, surfing, kayaking, rock climbing, navigation and camping, just to name a few.

This year during camps week, Year 7 students travelled to Central Australia to begin developing their outdoor skills while strengthening their connections to our natural environment and indigenous culture; Year 8 students focused on what it means to be part of a community in the Toolangi region; Year 9 students learnt about what it means to be resilient on The Great Ocean Walk; and Year 10 students focused on leadership in the Brisbane Ranges. These camps follow a sequential curriculum which culminates in Year 10 students becoming self-sufficient in the outdoors for the entirety of their experience.

Following their time on camps this year, when asked, ‘What life lessons did you gain from camp?’ students shared the following responses:

‘The importance of pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and giving things a go even if I am unsure.’ Zimo, Year 10

‘Teamwork and learning to push through when things became tough.’ Alessia, Year 9

‘I learnt about the importance of communication when working as a team.’ Navya, Year 8

It is hoped that when students graduate, not only will they have a toolkit of skills and experiences to draw from when they face challenges, but they will look back fondly on lifelong memories formed during their experiences in Outdoor Education.

Alex Harrison Camps Coordinator

1. Jucker, R., & von Au, J. (Eds.). (2022). HighQuality Outdoor Learning: Evidence-based Education Outside the Classroom for Children, Teachers, and Society. Springer.

MEET OUR STAFF

YOKO KIRKMAN

Yoko is Fintona’s Languages Learning Leader and is one of our current longestserving staff members having joined the School in 1995 to start up the VCE Japanese Program. Yoko has taught Japanese across all year levels in Middle and Senior School and is currently teaching students in Years 9 to 12.

Having grown up in Japan where she studied English and French at school, Yoko then attended university in the United States and Australia where she added another two languages to her repertoire, Spanish and Italian. In addition to languages, Yoko is a talented musician and often plays the piano at school assemblies.

What inspired you to work in the field of education?

I have always been interested in languages and in my late teens, I decided to pursue a career in education after being taught by some inspirational language teachers. I find teaching very rewarding; to see students genuinely enjoy the language you teach, and to hear about your former students continuing their language studies at university or using the language skills in their chosen careers is fantastic.

What skills are useful as a language teacher?

Obviously, in-depth linguistic and cultural knowledge of the language you are teaching is essential. I studied linguistics at university — linguistics is not just about the structural analysis of language such as syntax, semantics, morphology or phonetics. What interested me most in my study was understanding the different language

‘I have always been interested in languages and in my late teens, I decided to pursue a career in education after being taught by some inspirational language teachers.’

acquisition processes for first and secondlanguage learners, and how languages evolve and function in different sociocultural contexts through different times.

I also believe it is just as important for language teachers to have creativity and an understanding of the different learning styles of students. A sense of humour and the patience of a saint would also be useful!

What advice would you give to a student studying a language?

Develop your analytical and creative thinking skills. You need to understand the structure of the language, but the ability to apply the acquired knowledge in different contexts to communicate your ideas is incredibly important. You need to be able to go beyond grammar drills and memorising a list of words for tomorrow’s quiz.

What makes Fintona a special place to work at?

The students and their drive for personal excellence in what they do, a great rapport between the students and the teachers, and the collegiality of the School community.

Tell us about your life outside Fintona?

I am a passionate Western Bulldogs supporter and enjoy going to the game with my family and friends. As we hold the front row seats on the fence in the Members’ Stand at the Marvel Stadium, you can often spot me on TV. I also enjoy playing the piano, good music and good food. I have two grown-up children, a daughter and a son. My daughter, Stephanie, is an Old Fintonian who graduated in 2007.

ELLIOT STRAND

As Music Learning Leader, Elliot oversees Fintona's Music Faculty, including music administration and the instrumental music staff. He is also a classroom teacher. Even though Elliot moved from the UK as recently as 2021, he already feels embedded in the Fintona community. ‘I have never taught at a school where the students’ passion for learning is so outwardly obvious, where the level of mutual respect is consistently outstanding, and where the commitment to learning outside the classroom is so overwhelmingly positive,’ he said.

Have you always wanted to work in education?

After leaving school I ended up taking a gap year as I couldn’t decide if I wanted to study music or biomedical sciences. I clearly settled on music and studied a Bachelor of Music (Honours) in jazz musical performance and composition at Birmingham Conservatoire and then gained my teaching qualification.

What musical instruments did you learn growing up?

At primary school, I started on the classic children’s instrument, the recorder! I quickly moved on to piano and trumpet. I was a member of six ensembles during high school and five whilst at college. I now play the trumpet, piano, trombone, euphonium and French horn.

What skills are important when teaching music?

For me, an openness to creativity and an awareness that music is subjective, much like an art form. There is no right or wrong way to create music and it is a very humbling feeling. I also believe that music should be fun. The most challenging skill to master is that of knowledge. I always want to be able to teach a broad range of musical topics and styles, which requires me to have a strong understanding of these. I am constantly developing my understanding of new styles of music to best educate the students.

Tell us about some of the rewarding aspects of teaching?

Watching students overcome hurdles, whether that be in my classroom, an orchestral environment or just in day-to-day activities is a hugely rewarding aspect of my job. For me, it is incredibly gratifying to see the impact I have on the students and watching them grow through the positive interactions they have with staff and other students is the reason I came in to teaching. Music concerts are also a big area of enjoyment for me. Watching the school bands and orchestras progress over several weeks and perform at the highest standard gives me hope that music will always be an integral part of our students’ development.

What brings you happiness?

Since moving to Australia, I have become a massive fan of gardening. I’ve converted half of my garden into a vegetable plot and now grow 20 to 30 types of fruit and vegetables throughout the year. I also play tennis with both my wife and our friends. I’m a big nature lover and really enjoy hiking and in Australia, so far, I’ve hiked at Wilson’s Prom, Cathedral Ranges and the Otway National Park.

'I have never taught at a school where the students' passion for learning is so outwardly obvious.'

OLD FINTONIANS’ ALUMNI

REUNIONS 2023

This year, we have been combining year group reunions as we have received positive feedback from Old Fintonians who enjoy catching up with their peer level as well as with friends from other year levels at reunions.

Class of 2003/2004

20 Year Reunion

Friday 28 July

6.30pm — 8.30pm

Class of 2013/2014

10 Year Reunion

Friday 1 September

6.30pm — 8.30pm

INTERSTATE

NSW/ACT

Thursday 7 September

QLD

Saturday 21 October

SA

Sunday 10 December

MARRIAGES

Congratulations to Jessica Hunter (‘14) and Hudson Gerwing who were married on 4 February at Yarra Bend Park followed by a reception at Brunswick Mess Hall. Old Fintonians, Rachel Adams (Maid of Honour, ’14), Lindsay Jacoby (’10), Amber Guthrie (’14), and Jaqlin Lyon (’14) were in the Bridal Party.

VALE

The Fintona community is saddened to learn of the passing of the following Old Fintonians:

Barbara Nixon (Hine ’50) 2/7/22

Margaret Spry (Coltman ’55) 29/11/22

Patricia Bowles (Sinclair ’45) 3/1/23

Helen Beesley (Wright ’46) 18/1/23

Jennifer Riedel (Bridge ’58) 23/1/23

Margaret Baker (Cattanach ’46) 24/2/23

Anna Tiefensee (Danfors ’53) 2/3/23

Pauline Vera Rushbrooke-Williams (Rushbrooke ’44) 16/3/23

Shirley Ann Walker (Cook ’50) 29/4/23

Julie Dickinson (Adams ’53) 17/5/23

SPECIAL EVENT

OFA Golf Day

Monday 13 November Sorrento Golf Club

ENGAGEMENT

Congratulationsto Dimity Hanney (’14) on her engagement to Ted Wyles. The couple will be married in November.

Congratulations to Stephanie Kirkman (’07) and George Antoniou who were married on 27 May at St Andrews Greek Orthodox Church in Forest Hill, followed by a reception at Encore in St Kilda.

OBITUARIES

HELEN BEVERLEY BEESLEY (WRIGHT ’46)

18/1/1929 – 18/1/2023

Helen's family home was High Trees on the corner of Millah and Cherry Roads, with

four lively siblings Shirley, Lauchlan, Murray and Adrienne. School at St. Duthus and Sunday school at St. Barnabas were part of her early life. A love of the arts, music and sport developed at Fintona, with Helen being awarded The Bowman Prize for ‘Work, Sport and Character’ and a dedication to supporting others through the Red Cross with an adventurous spirit.

Studying at RMIT as an Industrial Chemist was followed by work at Kodak. There Helen met a remarkable Englishman, Electronics Engineer, John Beesley. He had built the family home in Balwyn in 1951, and in 1956, they married at St. Barnabas' Anglican Church in Balwyn.

Helen was an extraordinary support for children Merrick, Shauna (’81) and Rachael (’86), their partners and grandchild Zoë encouraging them to follow their chosen paths. In later life, Helen was always fully engaged in the world around her – travelling, participating in local gardening, Tai Chi, tennis, walking and historical groups while adapting to the digital world with a thoroughness to detail. The garden produced a cornucopia of fruit and vegetables. Remaining fiercely independent after John passed away in 1997, Helen’s determination and strength gave her a passion for life we can all aspire to.

Always in our hearts.

ANNA TIEFENSEE (DANFORS ’53)

28/3/36 — 2/3/23

Anna came to Australia from Sweden with her parents and two older brothers when she was only one year old. Her father was transferred for work with the Swedish company, ASEA.

Living in Balwyn, Anna attended Fintona from kindergarten until the end of Year 8 when the family returned to Sweden in 1949.

Anna had a very happy childhood in Australia with many wonderful memories which she

JULIE DICKINSON (ADAMS ’53)

27/5/36 — 17/5/23

Julie attended Fintona from 1947 to 1953. After leaving Fintona, Julie went on to study a degree in Social Work at the University of Melbourne followed by a Master in Social Work at the University of Western Australia.

In addition to being a much loved wife, mother and grandmother, Julie was a counselling therapist with people experiencing difficult life situations. Over many years, Julie supported clients experiencing depression and anxiety using specific therapy techniques. Julie was

often shared. During all the years since she returned to Sweden, she still kept in touch with many of her school friends including Philippa Wardrop (Alley ’53), Betty Coltman (Smith ’53) and Kate Collin (McIlwraith-Smith ’53). As well as returning to Australia for a couple of visits, her Fintona friends also visited her in Sweden which was always an exciting occasion.

Australia and Fintona were an important part of Anna’s life, and she passed this love on to her daughter, Christina who visited Melbourne to see first-hand where her mother had grown

up. Christine spent six months here and stayed with her Mother’s old school friend, Philippa Wardrop. At Anna’s wake, a selection of Fintona and Australian memorabilia was displayed and guests sang ‘Waltzing Matilda’.

active in providing social work services in a Homeswest complex of 250 units and facilitated weekly sessions for ‘Coffee, Cake and Conversation’. Julie was a volunteer with the weekly Alzheimer’s Choir in Western Australia.

Her volunteer work also extended to the arts. Using her skills from when she was a volunteer guide at the National Gallery of Victoria, she rallied a team of researchers to work on documenting the art of WA based artists. In addition, Julie was a volunteer tour guide whose brief included taking children on tours of the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

As an Old Fintonian, Julie maintained a circle of close-knit friends from school and was a regular attendee at Fintona reunions held in Perth.

Julie will be very much missed and our condolences are extended to her family and friends.

NEWS OF OLD FINTONIANS

JENNIFER’S DIPLOMATIC CAREER

When Jennifer Mathews (’77) took up the opportunity to learn Indonesian in Year 9 when it was first introduced to the Fintona curriculum, little did she know that this would plant the seed for her lifelong love of international relations in Asia and a diplomatic career.

Jennifer, who is currently National President, Australia Indonesia Business Council (AIBC), studied a Bachelor of Laws and Arts majoring in Indonesian studies at the University of Melbourne after finishing Year 12 at Fintona.

With numerous leadership roles within the Commonwealth and State Governments, Jennifer’s career has included two postings in Indonesia as First Secretary at the Australian Embassy and then as Investment and Trade Commissioner for the WA Government. Jennifer has also held the role of Director General of the WA Department of Local Government and Communities, Deputy Legal Advisor for the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra, and State Manager

of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission in Perth. For a period of time, she also worked as a solicitor in Jakarta at the law firm Makarim & Taira, specialising in commercial joint ventures.

Skilled in international trade and investment, economic and social policy development, as well as leadership and strategy, Jennifer says that all her roles have required her to adapt to new environments and leadership challenges, including advising Federal and State Ministers across a range of diverse portfolios — from local government and regional development to women’s interests and multicultural affairs.

For Jennifer there have been many career highlights, but a standout was staying at the Grand Palace in Bangkok during the visit to Thailand of the former Governor General Sir Ninian Stephen, as part of her first diplomatic posting to Thailand.

In addition to her current role as National President at AIBC, Jennifer also serves as Deputy Chair on the national board of Economic Development Australia (EDA) and is an active member of Chief Executive Women.

WOMEN’S INTER SCHOOL GOLF CHALLENGE

Congratulations to Old Fintonians, Sally Eastoe (Randall ‘75), Liz Cramer (Howell ‘70), Sam Wilson (Rogers ‘84), and Sally Syme (‘74) who represented Fintona at this year’s Women’s Inter School Golf Challenge Cup at Yarra Yarra Golf Club. Twenty nine alumni teams competed with Genazzano winning the 2023 Cup.

Outside work, Jennifer loves to spend time with her family (husband John, and children Stephanie and Richard), travelling and playing tennis. She still keeps in touch with ten of her close school friends and attends the WA OFA reunion each year. When reflecting on her time at Fintona she says that she really valued Fintona’s small size as she knew so many students across other year levels. ‘As a female student in the 70s our teachers drilled it into us that as young women we could have any career we wanted and to make the most of opportunities that came our way,’ said Jennifer.

Please save the date for the OFA Golf Day to be held on Monday 13 November at Sorrento Golf Club for golfers of all abilities. If you would like further information or you haven’t played in the event before, please email Sally Eastoe at sally@eastoes.com.

L — R: Sally Eastoe, Liz Cramer, Sam Wilson, Sally Syme

ZOE PLAYS IN ANZAC CUP

Congratulations to Zoe Schwerkolt (’16) who played football in the ANZAC Cup in France this year.

Zoe was a member of the Australian Spirit Women’s AFL team which was coached by Justin Clarke, an ex-AFL Brisbane Lions player and Rhodes Scholar. The team won the match against the French Gauloises 38 to 27.

Zoe’s passion for football started at Fintona when she played in the GSV competition, and at the ANZAC Cup she was honoured to receive the award for best on ground.

The ANZAC Cup is held on ANZAC Day Eve in the village of Villers-Bretonneux and honours the 1918 Australian-led counterattack that reclaimed the village from enemy forces during WWI. Over 2,000 Australian soldiers lost their lives in this battle and their bravery has never been forgotten by locals.

‘It was incredibly meaningful to commemorate ANZAC Day in VillersBretonneux where Australia holds such a special place in the hearts of the locals,’ said Zoe. ‘There were Australian flags flying in shop windows, pictures of kangaroos decorating the streets, roads named after Australian cities, and of course it’s something else, to be able to play such an Aussie thing as Australian rules football on the opposite side of the world.’

Zoe and her teammates were hosted by local families in Villers-Bretonneux and Zoe said that she put the French she learnt at Fintona to good use as there were only a few members of her team who could speak French. In addition to playing football, Zoe was interviewed on French radio about the match and the significance of the day to Australians.

Currently living in the UK and studying a Masters in Maths and Computer Science at Oxford University, after completing her course later this year, Zoe is planning to remain in the UK in the short term to pursue a career in technology.

FUTURE CEO PROGRAM FOR FEMALE LEADERSHIP

Old Fintonian, Mackayla Hanney (’10) is running a new ‘Future CEO Program’ as part of her role as Executive General Manager at Kinetic which is the largest bus operator in Australia and New Zealand. The leadership program is designed to equip women with skills required to move into senior roles and seeks to address structural and cultural barriers that exist in its own business, the industry and broader corporate community.

‘So far there are three females in the fulltime program who are all provided with mentors and hands-on learning experiences and exposure to mass transportation operational areas,’ said Mackayla.

‘When I left Fintona and then graduated from law school at Melbourne University, I never thought I would end up working in this industry, but I honestly love it. The project management skills that I developed when working at a law firm for 10 years have been extremely useful to me as my leadership role at Kinetic requires me to manage a number of projects and initiatives across our Southern operations.'

Mackayla oversees operations in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania and leads a team of close to 2000 staff.

Reflecting on her school days, Mackayla said that Fintona always encouraged students to develop their leadership skills. Through her own experiences in going through the leadership program and as a Deputy Consul she has used this educational background to further develop her skills in leadership.

REUNIONS

CLASSES OF 2018 & 2019 5 YEAR REUNION

Friday 3 March

Class of 2019

L — R: Julie Goldsworthy, past staff, Ellen Stevenson (’19), Madeleine Roushdy (’19), Ruth McKinnon, Deputy Principal, Christa Ackermann, past staff

Class of 2018

CLASSES OF 1993 & 1994 30 YEAR REUNION

Friday 24 March

Classes of 1993 & 1994 with Rachael Falloon, Principal

L — R: Holly Unwin (Staples), Geetha Soosay, Melissa Ford (Pandelli), Manal Mansour, Amanda Smith (Doherty) from the Class of 1994

L — R: Michaela Salisbury (Carnaffan ’94) Claire Besley, Paige McDonald (Winton), Yvette Sully, Bindi Jose, Jo Hayman, Nicole Campbell (Hook) from the Class of 1993

CLASSES OF 1983 & 1984 40 YEAR REUNION

Friday 12 May

Class of 1983 with Ruth McKinnon, Deputy Principal

Class of 1984 with Ruth McKinnon, Deputy Principal

L- R: Jenny Valentine (Ewing ’83), Karina Woolrich (Gibson ’84), Susannah Jepson (Gibson ’83), Nicola Barratt-Smith (Barratt ’83)

CLASSES OF 1973 & 1974 50

YEAR REUNION

Saturday 27 May

Class of 1973

Class of 1974

L — R: Julia Champion De Crespigny (Hanson ’73), Carolyn Graham (Peters ’73), Prue Boyd (Looker ’74)

SA REUNION

Sunday 27 November

L — R: Sue Vandeleur (Leaver ’57)

Rachael Falloon, Principal, Karen Anderson (Roper ’76), Liz Vines (’70), Diana Pinkney (Goodson ’56), Prue Jay (Love ’66)

WA REUNION

Saturday 6 May

L — R: Kate McPhee, Communications & Community Officer, Sarah O’Sullivan (Harold ’83), Kate Collin (McIlwraith ‘53), Mandy Lane (Waldrop ‘77), Jennifer Mathews (‘77), Lynette Clayton (Handley ‘52)

CONNECT

fgs@fintona.vic.edu.au

fintona.vic.edu.au