Genazzano FCJ College - GenNarrations December 2017 Edition

GenNarrations DECEMBER 2017

Commitment to Our Community 2017 Outstanding Alumna: Dr Sarah McNab Gen Cup 2 Go Sustainability Initiative We Remember: Srs. Mary Spring, SMSM & Catherine Moore, fcJ

DECEMBER 2017

GenNarrations is the biannual magazine of Genazzano FCJ College.

Editor & Project Manager Lara Antonelli-Leorke lara.antonelli-leorke@genazzano.vic.edu.au

Contents DECEMBER 2017

GENINSTITUTE OF LEARNING & BRAIN SCIENCES

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INTERVIEW WITH YR 12 BOARDER - ELLA BRADFORD

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MUSIC

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OXAGEN PRODUCTIONS

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2017 OUTSTANDING ALUMNA DR SARAH McNAB

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‘GEN CUP 2 GO’ SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE

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A TRIBUTE TO SR CATHERINE MOORE, fcJ

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GENAZZANO MOTHERS’ ASSOCIATION

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Editorial Committee Lucy Cohen, Director of Development Amanda Presta, Development Projects Coordinator Cover Image Photographed by Tom Coolledge, featuring 2017 Outstanding Alumna Award Recipient, Dr Sarah McNab.

Genazzano FCJ College 301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Telephone: +61 3 8862 1000 Facsimile: +61 3 8862 1133 Email: development@genazzano.vic.edu.au genazzano.vic.edu.au

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

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DECEMBER 2017

Message from the Principal KAREN JEBB | PRINCIPAL

Readers of GenNarrations would be aware that the foundation of this wonderful community is inspired by the society of the Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus.

It is this foundation that inspires our commitment to community; to those most in need of our support, compassion and care.

This year marks 200 years since Marie Madeleine d’Houët was blessed with significant faith experiences that provided much clarity for her and inspired her to found the FCJ society, which will celebrate its bicentenary in just three years’ time.

On 5 June 1817, Marie Madeleine was at St Acheul in Amiens for the Feast of Corpus Christi. While looking at the crucifix during the procession, she experienced Jesus saying to her, “Behold the first Jesuit and the Master of them all”. She took this to mean that Jesus was to have first place in her heart. Soon after, in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart Convent, from the crucifix she heard the words, “I thirst”. Kneeling in adoration, she was led to offer herself unreservedly for whatever might be asked of her in order to respond to the Lord’s thirst for the fullness of life, for all God’s people.

Last year, I had the privilege of joining the pilgrimage that followed the footsteps of Marie Madeleine’s life in France. During this pilgrimage, we attended Sunday Mass at St Acheul Church, prayed in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart Convent and were welcomed into Marie Madeleine’s house. In each of these sacred places I experienced a sense of the enormity of Marie Madeleine’s work and the impact she, and the Sisters she inspired, have made on many communities.

Her deep faith and active response from God’s call led her life’s journey to the service of others; making a positive impact on those in need.

This impact has spread far and wide, and so I hope that Marie Madeleine looks fondly on the legacy she has left behind, and that the works of social justice and companionship shared by the students and staff from Genazzano fulfil the hopes and dreams that our foundress had for each school that carries the FCJ name.

This commitment to community is valued by our students long after they leave the gates of Genazzano, and the 2017 recipient of the Outstanding Alumnae Award, Dr Sarah McNab, is a wonderful example of this commitment.

Through her medical career, Dr McNab has dedicated her life to the health and wellbeing of others, children in particular. When she spoke at our College assembly in August, Dr McNab noted the passion and commitment of her teachers which helped instill in her a desire to work in paediatrics. Dr McNab has a great deal to be proud of, however we as a community can also share in the accomplishments of alumnae like her. You can read more about Dr McNab’s achievements on page 26.

Genazzano is known in the wider community for our integrated Social Justice Program, and whilst it is often a challenge for schools to implement an authentic approach to social justice, it is at the very heart of which the College was founded. Indeed, Marie Madeleine’s commitment to her community and beyond is one that has inspired this College for 128 years, and one that will continue to inspire us for many years to come.

May we be inspired to see God in all things, as Marie Madeleine did, and may her example propel us to reach out to those in need of our love, compassion and care.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Message from the Chair of College Council KEVIN FRAWLEY | CHAIR OF COLLEGE COUNCIL

As the year draws to a close, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the achievements of our College over the past year.

Recently, the College published and distributed a brochure to our parent community entitled, ‘Strategic Direction 2020’, which outlined the strategic directions being followed by the College, in the areas of: •

Educational development.

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Organisational, facilities and resources development.

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Strengthening Catholic identity, in the context of our FCJ charism.

While seeking improvements to all College processes and procedures, based on measurement and outcomes, Council also remains committed to the maintenance of core values which are at the heart of our College so that, in partnership with our parent community, we can achieve holistic educational outcomes.

One of the great privileges of leading College Council is the opportunity to witness firsthand the achievements of our students across the range of curricular and co-curricular activities.

Our College Music Program continues to excel, with the diversity and strength of the program evident at the Annual Music Concert at Hamer Hall, as well as specialist evenings such as the Jazz Night and Concerto performances. These events serve to highlight the many individual talents of our students, in a variety of instrumental and vocal disciplines. It is gratifying that two-thirds of our entire student population participates in one or more of our choirs, bands and other music ensembles.

Our College also seeks to continue and expand a wide range of sporting programs, with a view to encouraging all our students to embrace the benefits of a healthy mind and body. The recent Celebration of Sport Presentation Evening showcased the diverse Sport Program offered at Genazzano. It is encouraging that, in addition to our traditional strengths in netball, tennis and swimming, we are experiencing increased interest and participation in our renewed Athletics Program.

Our recent Year 12 Valedictory Presentation Evening and 2018 Prefect Investiture Assembly also served to highlight the wonderful achievements of our senior students, not just academically, but in a broad range of endeavours of a co-curricular nature, especially in the various social justice activities undertaken by so many of our students.

It is clear that a culture of social justice, involving concern for others and active assistance to those less fortunate, is truly alive and well at Genazzano.

All these things serve to reinforce the commitment of College Council that Genazzano remains a broad based, non-selective Catholic girls’ school with a commitment to delivering strong educational outcomes for all our students, both academically and in a wide range of musical, sporting and other endeavours. Fundamental to achieving this is a strong curricular and co-curricular programs underpinned by the traditions and charism of the Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus.

We will continue to work in partnership with our parent community, so that our students are well equipped, imbued with faith, courage and confidence, to make meaningful and lasting contributions to our community in their adult lives.

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DECEMBER 2017

Curriculum Standards & Learning ROBERT TASSONI | DEPUTY PRINCIPAL: CURRICULUM, STANDARDS & INNOVATION

At Genazzano FCJ College we recognise that learning and teaching is a community endeavour, supported by teachers, students, parents, guardians and administrative staff.

All staff involved in the lives of our students are there to help them grow and flourish across the cognitive, emotional, physical and academic domains. It is this commitment to community that makes Genazzano such a special and unique educational environment.

We strongly believe that students learn best in an environment that nurtures, supports and challenges them to grow in their learning.

Our learning and teaching programs are designed to encourage our students to be motivated, reflective and self-regulated learners.

They are supported in this endeavour by an excellent pastoral care program, GenSTAR, which is a whole-school wellbeing program that enables students to develop resilience, think for peak performance, and develop skills for a safe, healthy and positive approach to life.

Our curriculum is designed to ensure that students are able to be challenged in their learning by designing all programs to cater for a range of abilities and focus on growth in learning.

Our commitment to community is also reinforced by our firm belief that excellence in the holistic education of our girls is a community effort.

Parents and guardians are our companions in this enterprise.

Our continual reporting system helps keep parents informed about their daughter’s academic progress on a regular basis throughout each semester. Parents, guardians and teachers use the continual reporting system to maintain regular communication and instigate dialogue when necessary to maximise the learning potential of each student. We also ensure that Learning Conversations,

which officially occur twice a year, provide an opportunity for open and authentic dialogue about a student’s progress, with an emphasis on providing formative feedback to facilitate growth in learning and achievement standards.

Our commitment to community is also reflected in the importance and value we place on student voice in the learning process. We have instigated a number of very worthwhile and valuable programs to gain insight from our students about their experiences of learning. This has been achieved through surveys, feedback forms and conversations about learning with their teachers. Our Student Representative Council has also run some wonderful workshops with staff, designed to discuss strategies to further engage and involve students in their learning.

Providing excellence in education also involves embracing and tapping into expertise within the wider community. We have been fortunate to be able to foster excellent and productive relationships with organisations within our broader community to provide our students with the best possible learning opportunities. Currently, we have relationships with Deakin University, the University of Melbourne, the St Vincent Foundation and the Institute for Social and Neuroscience.

In particular, we are working with researchers from the University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Education to learn more about how the domains of Psychology and Neuroscience can be used to enhance student motivation, engagement and success in learning.

It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child and this doctrine applies equally to the education of our students. Commitment to building an integrated, inclusive learning community at Genazzano requires a team effort involving a number of key stakeholders, both within and beyond our school community. We also believe that what makes learning at Genazzano so special is our ability to foster excellence through the building and maintaining of constructive and positive community relationships.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Faith & Mission CHARLES WATT | DEPUTY PRINCIPAL: FAITH & MISSION

‘Community’ is one of those words that can be self-referential and inward-looking, but at Genazzano it is far from that!

A key focus on the quality of education we seek to provide is to instill the Ignatian and FCJ imperative of being ‘women for others’.

Recently our Year 12s completed their academic classes and celebrated their Valedictory Eucharist. The Year 12 class of 2017 have been so generous and active in responding to the FCJ call to be committed to, and passion about, social justice in our world. They chose ‘Courageous in Service’ as the focus for their Valedictory Eucharist. In his homily, Father Brendan Reed spoke directly to the girls and noted that in the future many of them would hold positions of power - that they would indeed be women of influence with the great opportunity to serve and be leaders with a focus on others.

There is a strong prevalence of ‘Companionship’ at Gen, which provides each girl the opportunity to interact with the wider community & see the impact that their service has on others.

Each year, the College offers the opportunity for students to reflect on the FCJ charism by submitting a reflective piece for the Marie Madeleine d’Houët Religious Education Writing Prize. Isabelle Zupan from Year 12 observed the following about her experience at Genazzano: “There is a strong prevalence of ‘Companionship’ at Gen, which provides each girl the opportunity to interact with the wider community and see the impact that their service has on others.

Personally, I have engaged with the Companionship Program for many years, starting in Year 6. What an honour the experience has been, being able to interact with the men and women of the Aged Care Facilities we attended. For until then I had never sat down with someone and simply shared in the story of their life. It was a thrill, and an awareness of the innate dignity of many elderly people was instilled in me. Similarly, this passion has endured throughout Years 9, 10 and 11 where Gen’s Companionship Program remains strong. We receive so many opportunities to serve so many different communities, it’s very difficult not be affected in some way. I hope that in my life beyond Gen I can maintain this desire.”

These words articulate profound FCJ values and sentiments.

I imagine Isabelle’s words are all the more powerful since the vast majority of Gen girls would nod in agreement with her experiences and affirm the importance of reaching out to others in our community.

Let this be our prayer, that we remain ever faithful to the mission of Jesus that the FCJ Sisters model for us.

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DECEMBER 2017

Student Wellbeing – Performance Psychology Centre DR REBECCA MACNAMARA | COLLEGE PSYCHOLOGIST

This semester the Performance Psychology Department supported two student-initiated groups, Gen Allies and Champions for Change.

Each group demonstrated exemplary commitment to promoting wellbeing within the College community, facilitating a College event during second semester, under the mentorship of the Performance Psychology Department. The positive effects of the events, ‘Are You OK? Day’ and ‘Love Your Body Week’, were clear and wide-reaching.

Gen Allies, led by 2017 College Captains, Marie Iliadis and Sophie Zebrowski, is a group of senior students that promotes mental wellbeing and social cohesion within the Community. Through ‘Are You OK? Day’ events, they communicated the importance of making meaningful connections, and encouraging peers to seek support when needed. Commitment to this message was symbolised by yellow ribbons, worn during the day. ‘Are You OK? Day’ events at the College included a visit from leading youth mental health service, Headspace, who provided education about mental health and avenues for support. Gen Allies also provided year level presentations about ways to ways to ask ‘Are You OK?’, and distributed care packages to senior students.

Champions for Change, led by Year 11 students, Millie Spencer and Lara Tallarida, facilitated celebrations for ‘Love Your Body Week’, promoting healthy body image. Homerooms undertook activities

throughout the week, including a Body Love Pledge, and complimentgiving. Having received training from the Performance Psychology Department, Year 11 students delivered a 65-minute healthy body image session to Year 7 Homerooms. The week culminated in a lunchtime yoga session, which was enthusiastically taken up by students from Years 5 to 12.

These student groups have shown great commitment to the College community, working in the powerful way of creating change from within.

The Performance Psychology Department looks forward to continuing to support and mentor students in this way, in the ongoing promotion of emotional wellness within the College community.

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GENAZZANO DECEMBER FCJ COLLEGE 2017

KAREN JEBB | PRINCIPAL

Genazzano FCJ College has a proud history of academic achievement and we seek to instil a culture of excellence for all students; our vision of learning continues to be a dynamic and exciting one that views education as lifelong, liberating and transformative.

We seek to open up spaces of meaning which engage our Catholic faith and FCJ charism with what matters most in the minds and hearts of our students.

Findings from local and international evidence-based research indicate that “what matters most” is the quality of teachers and teaching, supported by strategic professional development.

Therefore, we need to be even more alert to the formation and growth of our teachers.

Ongoing professional learning and the building of a collaborative culture will be strengthened to ensure that learning and high performance is paramount.

The Institute of Learning and Brain Sciences’ Professional Learning Program will focus on the use of reflective practice, data, current research and evidence to understand what impacts student learning, ensuring progress and growth. The learning modules that all teachers will complete over the coming years will assist in the development of purposeful teaching and learning programs that improve outcomes for all students.

The Professional Learning Program will provide our teachers with a graduate-level understanding of emerging brain, psychological, and educational research, building the capacity of teachers to apply what they have learned meaningfully in their classroom practice.

There will be opportunities for teachers to share data, research and best practice and to use student voice to further inform learning and teaching at the College.

We have partnered with Dr Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd), an expert in the field of Educational Neuroscience with a focus on translating neuroscientific principles to enhance teaching and learning practices within the classroom. Jared has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the University of Southern California, the University of Melbourne, and has taught at schools around the United States and Australia.

Currently, Jared is undertaking research in collaboration with the Science of Learning Research Center at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education and serves as Co-President of The Science of Learning Group and The Education Neuroscience Initiative - two groups dedicated to bringing the latest in brain and behavioral research to teachers, students, and parents alike. Jared has an infectious passion for Educational Neuroscience and shares his expertise in a welcoming and engaging manner whilst inviting others to share in his excitement.

As explained by Ms Catherine Brandon, Director, The GenInstitute of Learning and Brain Sciences will also offer a range of enjoyable and challenging opportunities for our students to engage in this space, through competitions, research projects and educational programs.

We are delighted with what has been achieved since the April launch and we look forward to developing our Institute over the coming years.

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DECEMBER 2017

CATHERINE BRANDON | DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH: PROGRAMS & PERFORMANCE

2017 saw the launch of Genazzano’s new initiative: The Genazzano Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences.

The College’s vision is to create a platform for students, teachers and the wider community to learn about exciting research in the area of Educational Neuroscience. We aim to explore the practical applications of this work in order to transform teaching and learning at Genazzano.

Already we have seen great enthusiasm for this initiative from our students who have taken up opportunities to engage with ideas, activities and competitions about learning and the brain – many of these instigated and promoted by inaugural Learning and Brain Sciences Captains, Isabelle Zupan and Emily Harman. Thank you to Isabelle and Emily for their creativity, passion and leadership in promoting a love of learning in 2017!

The Science of Learning is about understanding how the brain learns and responds to external and internal stimuli in order to improve teaching. Professional learning at Genazzano is focused on targeting evidence-based strategies to optimise learning. The College has engaged in partnerships with the Science of Learning Group and the University of Melbourne to enhance this work.

Professional learning at Genazzano is focused on targeting evidence-based strategies to optimise learning.

In collaboration with partner organisations, we are delighted to have offered a range of opportunities to students including: competitions, masterclasses, awards and extension programs such as the BrainSTEM Mentoring Program and the Brainbee Neuroscience Challenge. A number of classroom-based sessions that focused on aspects of learning were led by guest presenters, Dr Joshua Newton of Deakin University, Dr Amanda Paolini of the Florey Institute, Dr Judith Paphazy, and Dr Jared Cooney Horvath of the University of Melbourne. Community events such as our launch event and grandparent event with Andrew Fuller, as well as our recent parent seminar, High Performance Brain: Principles for Learning and Life, were very well received with parents and community members, indicating these topics are highly relevant.

We look ahead to growing this work in 2018 and are most grateful for the support of our partner organisations and associates in 2017: Deakin University, ISN, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent’s Foundation, Education Perfect, Science of Learning Group, Dr Judith Paphazy and Andrew Fuller.

Please visit geninstitute.vic.edu.au for further information.

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Deakin Awards recepients Jessica Heaney (Outstanding Research) and Madeleine Ryan (Outstanding Presentation), Year 9

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Allegra Lipscombe and Anushi Fernandopulle, Year 8

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COMMITMENT DECEMBER 2017 TO OUR COMMUNITY

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GENAZZANO DECEMBER FCJ COLLEGE 2017

Senior School CLARE GULLONE | HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

“It is incumbent upon schools to attend to student friendships, to ensure that the class makes newcomers welcome, and at a minimum, to ensure that all students have a sense of belonging.”

John Hattie - ‘Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximizing Impact on Learning’ (2012, p.78)

Genazzano thoroughly encompasses this statement by distinguished teacher, educational researcher and author, John Hattie. The College ensures that the wellbeing of all members of our community are maintained and provides an optimum environment conducive to learning.

Service and commitment to the community is well and truly embraced through all parts of the Senior School. From the innovative and effective activities designed to bond the Year 7s as Homeroom groups, through to the support and care that the Year 12 students demonstrated towards one another in their studies. For every year level, unity and service were not simply concepts, but a practice that was both intentionally and innately built in to the curriculum, programs and culture of Genazzano. Indeed, this service went well beyond the College gates, with active engagement with social justice issues an important aspect of life at Genazzano.

This unity extends to the broader College community also, with staff sharing intrinsic motivation, to not only support the students in every way, but also support one another.

Working with the students is a joy, as mutual respect and shared goals underpin all activities. It is often the students with the best ideas and boundless enthusiasm who act on decisions in a responsible and reliable manner. I have often left meetings with students feeling inspired and excited at the prospect of seeing concepts become reality.

The College staff work hard to nurture and maintain a healthy wider College community, but it is the girls who work tirelessly to ensure that it is always achieved.

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DECEMBER 2017

Junior School MARY JONES | HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Commitment to our community has been evidenced in the Junior School throughout Semester Two in a very tangible way through the learning of our students.

‘In Unity We Serve’, our College theme for 2017, has been brought to life through some wonderful outcomes of the Inquiry Learning enacted in the Year 2 and 3 classrooms.

Our Year 2 students investigated the precious resource of water in their unit ‘Water, Water, Water’ and became quite passionate about saving water both within the College and beyond the gates. They could be seen turning off dripping taps and checking garden beds to see if they had been mulched! The unit of work culminated in the designing of posters about saving this essential resource for the ‘National Water Saver’ competition. These were proudly displayed in and around Grange Hill before being entered into the competition. We were delighted that one of our students, Eva Welsh, was a Regional Finalist, being awarded a prize for her efforts. Congratulations Eva! Our Year 3 students spent a term exploring our natural environment and some of the risks our world faces with the threat of climate change. Some students reveled in the opportunity to participate in the ‘Sustainability Breakfast’ organised by the College Sustainability Prefects and were keen to share what they had learnt with the rest of the class. The students were quite concerned about the way some of their fellow learners within the College left the yard after break times, so decided to create some videos to convince them to care for this beautiful environment in which we are privileged to learn every day. The Year 3 students delighted in sharing these with some of the Year 8s who were very impressed with their efforts – let’s hope it makes a difference!

Here is student Ava Mercadante’s thoughts about her sustainability learning: “To maintain the right relationship with the environment, we need to act sustainably. The First Australians did this for thousands of years; taking only what they needed, not what they wanted.

Earlier this year I was lucky enough to go to the Sustainability Breakfast. I was so inspired about saving our Earth, that I made a saving change jar to keep in our classroom, in the hope that we can get some more recycling bins for around the College with the money.”

In Religious Education, the Year 6 students have considered the concept of service and what it might look like within and outside the College. Part of this process entailed generating rich questions about service and there were some fantastic ones documented to set the direction for the learning.

The students then explored the gifts of the Spirit as the inspiration for service and considered how we could see them enacted out in the good works of others. We are looking forward to investigating some of our Catholic service organisations and of course, the work of our own Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus, to find out more about living a life of service.

This highlights our College theme beautifully, and has helped our Junior School students understand that each of us, no matter our age, have a role to play in living out the Gospel message of living a life of service to others, inspired by the person of Jesus.

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Early Learning Centre ALISON LUCAS | DIRECTOR: ELC

“Children learn about themselves and construct their own identity within the context of their families and communities.”

(DEEWR, 2009, p. 20).

The Genazzano Early Learning Centre is a real little community where each child is supported and encouraged to take on independence and be involved in the daily routine. This has included caring for Mr. McGregor’s garden - planting, weeding, watering, harvesting and cooking the fresh produce. The children have created an array of healthy food including, beetroot and carrot muffins, vegetable soup, celery and carrot dip. Sharing excess produce from the garden with the parent community has brought great excitement to the children, linking the ELC community to home and encouraging the children to share their experience.

In 2017, the educators shared a vision to embark on a Community Project, to bind and connect our community of learners, parents, grandparents and educators to create a place for Nature and Learning in the ELC outdoor playground. Our project commenced with the children exploring leaf litter and questioning how exactly do plants grow? An investigation commenced, followed by discussion and exploring. The children drew Native Australian plants and recognised all of the Indigenous flora that grows in our community of Boroondara, representing the first peoples of the land, the Wurundjeri descendants. A visit to our local community Maranoa Botanical Gardens inspired the children to design an Indigenous garden and

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meeting place in our ELC playground. Parents and grandparents were invited to participate by assisting to construct the children’s landscape design, help plant the garden and support the children’s painted hand prints onto the tree stump seats, which recognise their significant participation in the project. The completed Community Project has demonstrated the wonderful connection between the children as effective learners, investigators and designers, and has empowered them to understand that they have supported biodiversity and sustainable practices within their natural learning environment.

As children grow and develop, connections to the outside world help them to find their place, to develop understandings of how society works, and to recognise the shared values that underpin our society.

Parents and grandparents have supported the cultural identity of our community of learners by writing a letter to their grandchild that shared their cultural heritage and journey to Australia. ELC4 children created a cultural mystery box to share their cultural heritage flag, food and history. This was a wonderful exchange of cultural knowledge and pride for the community in which they belong.

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

Co-educational 3 and 4 Year Old New places available for 2018

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DECEMBER 2017

Discover the Early Learning Centre at Genazzano

From specialist music classes to sustainable practices and social skills programs, your child will be immersed in a culture of success and personal achievement.

301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Ph: 03 8862 1000 genazzano.vic.edu.au

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

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Hopetoun Hall

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Year 12 Boarder, Ella Bradford received the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award

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Tegan Cavallari (2017 Boarding Prefect) & Georgia Bradford (2017 Boarding Captain)

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Year 12 Boarders with Genazzano Principal, Ms Karen Jebb

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Hopetoun Hall LAUREN KENNEDY | DIRECTOR OF BOARDING

The Hopetoun Hall boarders have enjoyed many inspiring and valuable experiences during Semester Two. The sense of kinship at Hopetoun Hall is established in the girl’s diverse array of backgrounds and experiences, which makes coming together as a boarding community highly enjoyable.

In becoming a boarder it is vital that each girl commits to the boarding community. Boarders mix across year levels, which assists them to learn and understand the importance of this community. Many of the house routines provide opportunities for strengthening a unified spirit through daily life and learning about one another. Unlike school, when girls return to Hopetoun Hall the concept of year levels are forgotten, and the boarders are drawn together.

Older boarders provide a great amount of support for the younger boarders, which enhances the respectful and kind culture within the house.

The leadership displayed through the senior boarders is developed during the Year 11 boarders’ leadership training day. This year’s training included quality presenters and an active team building program, which strengthened bonds and incorporated lessons to assist the Year 11 boarders to transition into senior boarders for 2018.

Throughout this semester there have been numerous social activities and celebratory events at Hopetoun Hall, including a visit to the Artvo Immersive Gallery, the Year 12 House Party and Year 12 Boarders Valedictory Celebration. With 15 senior boarders departing this year, we enjoyed a memorable night of dedication to these girls. Special guests that included senior College staff and VCE teachers were invited, and senior boarders were presented with a memento to remember their time at Genazzano.

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DECEMBER 2017

Interview with Year 12 Boarder, Ella Bradford

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What did you think boarding would be like before you attended Genazzano?

Having had both my parents attend boarding school and speak about their fond memories, I always knew that it if given the opportunity, it was something I wanted to experience as well. Prior to boarding at Genazzano I had no idea that the connections formed with other girls in the boarding house would be so strong.

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We congratulate Year 12 boarder, Ella Bradford, on receiving the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award, which recognises students who display strong values, such as doing one’s best, respect for others and ‘mateship’ – all characteristics that are integral to Australian society. The award is an important initiative by the Australian Government in conjunction with the ADF to encourage senior students, as tomorrow’s leaders, to actively participate in the life of their school and local community.

This sense of boarder community extends to the College community and beyond, with each and every boarder individually encouraged to participate in a large variety of co-curricular activities.

All boarders are supported by staff to embrace these opportunities, from academics and social justice, to art, drama, music and sport.

The dedication and commitment instilled in our boarders enhances the unique, harmonious and supportive community that is Hopetoun Hall.

Do you think that there are misconceptions about boarding life, especially when it comes to a parents’ perspective?

There are definitely misconceptions about boarding school. The main ones I regularly come across are that boarding schools are a form of ‘punishment’; that children don’t have fun and it’s hard to keep in touch with family. From my experience, none of these misconception are true. I cannot thank my parents enough for giving me the opportunity to go away to school, I have so much fun with all my friends every day and speak to my parents daily.

How far from the truth are these misconceptions, when you look at your own experience as a boarder?

Boarding at Genazzano is by far one of the best opportunities given to me and I am thankful to my parents for allowing me to experience boarding school. From my personal experience as a boarder, there is never a dull moment; I am constantly surrounded by my closest friends and after living with them for 4 years they’ve become family. I am fortunate enough to talk to my parents daily, filling them in on the days’ adventures.

Fantasy versus Reality – what would you like people to know about life as a boarder?

Life as a boarder is so rewarding in so many ways, and I have gained independence with the support of the boarding house. Prior to my time at Genazzano, I only had one sister, but when my time here ends, I’ll be leaving with 40 sisters who are all so supporting and will remain in my life forever.

How have you enjoyed your experience as a Genazzano Boarder and why would you recommend it to other young women and their families?

My boarding experience at Genazzano will stay with me forever. The possibilities here at Gen are endless. I’d encourage other young girls and their families to think about boarding school, as you make so many long lasting friendships with girls throughout all the year levels.

Boarding staff also provide us with an environment that is safe and positive, with routines and a lifestyle that encourages us to focus on our studies, and helps young girls find their independence.

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Alumnae & Friends Playgroup RITA BRESCIANO | PLAYGROUP FACILITATOR

Coming to Genazzano FCJ College’s Alumnae & Friends Playgroup is the highlight of the children’s week! Children are talking about playgroup at home, asking if every day is a playgroup day.

No wonder the children (as well as the parents and grandparents) are excited to come along: the excitement builds as they enter the picturesque College grounds, are greeted by the lovely Paula at Grange Hill reception, walk through the adorned corridor, past the peaceful library and the bustling ELC, to finally burst through the doors of the action packed Grange Hill Hall where friends come to socialise, play, create and sing!

This year we have seen our attendance numbers quadruple. Our Tuesday morning playgroup session has been so popular, that in Term 4 we introduced a second session on Friday mornings. It has been lovely welcoming alumnae and new families from the wider community to our group and watching friendships grow.

The supported co-educational playgroup at Genazzano is open for children aged six months - three years. It operates out of the Grange Hill Hall each Tuesday and Friday morning from 9.30am - 11.00am during term.

For all registration enquiries, please contact: Amanda Presta Development Projects Coordinator playgroup@genazzano.vic.edu.au

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DECEMBER 2017

Philanthropy at Genazzano LUCY COHEN | DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

In my first year as Director of Development, the level of community engagement is what has stood out as being one of the key Genazzano differences.

Our alumnae and parents, past, present and future, are deeply invested in the future of Genazzano. This is evident through the number of enthusiastic volunteers who support the College and the great number of attendees at the multitude of College events, but also from the support we received for our 2017 Annual Appeal.

The Appeal aims to provide ongoing support for Genazzano building projects, Library resources and is vital in maintaining scholarship opportunities to girls from across the country. These three pillars of the Appeal have garnered passionate support for many years at Gen and continue to inspire our community to give generously.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who donated to the 2017 Annual Appeal.

Your gift contributes to the strength of the College in many ways and also leaves a legacy for you and your family. Thank you also to those who choose to remain anonymous and to those who have elected to remember Genazzano in their will. The combined generosity of our community will ensure the College continues to provide outstanding opportunities for generations to come.

As we move towards a new era of development for the College, philanthropic support is increasingly important, so I seek your support, either again or as a first time donor, for our annual Christmas Appeal which can be directed to either Building, Library or Scholarship funds.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT:

Mr V Adami

Mrs G Ellis

Mrs G McNamara

Ms Z Tang & Mr H Zheng

Mrs B Batten & Mr T Batten

Mrs J Fowles

Ms S Murray & Mr M Holcombe

Mrs N Tang & Mr X Shi

Mrs L Blackbourn

Dr V Hamilton

Mrs C & Mr B O’Callaghan

Mrs C Tanna & Mr D Condon

Mrs R & Mr A Canale

Mrs C & Mr M Henry

Miss E O’Halloran

Mrs M Tacey

Ms K Chung & Mr E Tong

Mrs A & Mr P Hickey

Mrs J & Mr S Parker

Mrs P Warnett

Ms L Cohen

Mrs J Hodgkinson

Miss H Pickering

Mrs C & Mr N West

Mrs B Crosier

Ms L Huang

Mrs C & Mr M Shannon

Miss R Williams

Mrs C Davison

Mrs S Li & Mr B Sun

Mrs M Woods

Mrs M Devereux

Mrs C & Mr N McClelland

Mr S Steward Q.C. & Mrs A Steward

Mrs A Edvi-Illes

Mrs T & Mr D Matthews

Mrs D Starr c/- Dr Lawrence K O’Halloran

We also had 13 Anonymous donors.

Donations can be made at www.genazzano.vic.edu.au/donate Thank you for your ongoing support and generosity.

Early Learning to Year 4 Wednesday 21 February 9.30am Year 5 to Year 12 Friday 2 March 9.30am Co-curricular Showcase Evening Wednesday March 5.30pm Tuesday 20 28 March 5.30pm 301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Ph: 03 8862 1000 genazzano.vic.edu.au

2018 School Tours and Information Sessions

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

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DECEMBER 2017

Creative Arts JOANNE SAVILLE | CURRICULUM LEADER CREATIVE ARTS

At the latter part of this semester, the Creative Arts Department curated the end of year Graduate Art Show entitled, ‘Envisage’.

The show demonstrated highly skilled and creative work in all areas of the Creative Arts Program. Students created diverse folios across a range of mediums and methods. Architectural models, resin paintings, photographic portraits, garments and films demonstrated the wonderful range of works displayed. We are enormously proud of our graduates this year.

Students in all aspects of the Arts Curriculum have enjoyed success by participating in the Royal Melbourne Show. Genazzano again won the Janice Gray Memorial Trophy for Best School in the Junior Arts and Crafts section. Seventeen first places and many seconds and thirds across 35 categories demonstrated the dominance our students had in a number of Arts and Crafts disciplines.

‘Les Jeunes Artistes’ (the young artists) ELC to Year 4 Art Show was held in September and once again proved to be a highlight for the Grange Hill community. A focus on Dior saw the students create wonderfully diverse fashion designs, as well as traditional art work inspired by the great artists. The students felt enormously proud of their work up on display and were able to share this with their parents and relatives on a wonderful night of celebration.

Students in the Visual Arts continue to access resources, technologies and equipment to realise their creations. Traditional art forms and processes are taught alongside digital software programs and 3D printing technology to create highly original and imaginative pieces.

We look forward to continuing the great work in 2018 as we develop students’ skills across our broad elective program in the Arts.

Genazzano again won theJanice Gray Memorial Trophy for Best School in theJunior Arts and Crafts section.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Drama GABRIELLE QUIN | CURRICULUM LEADER: DRAMA

Our Drama production calendar for second semester was a very busy one!

The production of Mulan Jr. (directed by alumna, Claire Warrillow, with music direction by Caitlin Petereit) was a resounding success.

A record number of guests were in attendance to share in this popular Disney’s re-telling of an ancient tale from China. The actors learned powerful choreographed martial arts moves adorned in amazing costumes, many created by the Product Design & Technology students under the guidance of Katrina Wheaton-Peniall. The creations were a marvellous testament to our Creative Department’s dedication to enhancing students’ involvement in ‘real-world’ briefs.

We will be putting a call out once again for expressions of interest from alumnae who are interested in directing and designing the 2018 Year 7 and 8 Co-Curricular Production, so please contact the Drama Department if you are interested in applying!

The Year 9 Drama elective deepened their encounter with Aboriginal culture after their experiences on camp to Central Australia. Basia Quill directed a production of, ‘The Honey Spot’ by Aboriginal author, Jack Davis, which tells the story of young Indigenous and white Australians coming together through dance. The students painted their own ‘totems’ as part of the set and the result was a beautifully realised performance. Year 9 students also collaborated with St. Kevin’s College on their contemporary version of Shakespeare’s, ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ with alumna, Caitlin Petereit, participating participating as Assistant Director.

The Wizard of Oz from Year 5 and 6 was a colourful explosion of energy on stage. The Drama Department were particularly excited to collaborate with the QART Foundation for artists with a disability to create the vivid backdrops of Munchkinland and the majestic doors of Oz. The Prep - Year 4 cohort took us on a journey across the oceans as they explored poetry and Pacific Island culture in their choreography, including Haka moves and songs from Moana. It was again beautifully directed by Tanya Salinas-Byrne who has contributed with great expertise to the Drama Department and brought much joy to the celebration of performance.

We thank our outgoing Drama Prefect, Emma James, for her wonderful leadership of the students as a new wave of graduates join our alumnae community. We welcome with great pleasure the incoming leaders, Meg Gleeson and Millicent Spencer, and are already excited about the abundance of ideas they have in store for 2018.

The Drama Department looks forward to further collaborations with our rich and diverse community.

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DECEMBER 2017

Co-curricular: Duke of Edinburgh Program CATHERINE MURPHY | DIRECTOR OF CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS: DUKE OF EDINBURGH CO-ORDINATOR

This semester over 200 Genazzano girls are completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award. These girls have been busy completing their ‘Service’ section for the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.

The Service Section of the Award encourages students to volunteer their time to, and understand the benefits of, service to their community. They have committed time on a regular basis each week connecting with our community and giving service to others. Students have been involved in a wide variety of service activities in our community and below are some reflections.

For my service, I am volunteering at Eva Tilley Nursing Home in North Balwyn. I have helped out by playing musical instruments as a form of entertainment for the elderly and also assisting with games such as bingo. I have enjoyed helping out and the 2017 College theme has enhanced my knowledge when volunteering and giving back to the elderly is something I am passionate about!

- Lola Crivelli, Bronze Award The service component of Duke of Ed this year has been a great experience for me. I learnt a new skill of knitting and then shared my scarves and beanies with a Guardian Pharmacy. They were then sent on to people in the community who were in need, in particular the poor, disadvantaged and homeless. It felt great to give to those in need while also learning a new skill.

- Elissa Grossi, Bronze Award

The Service Section of the Award encourages students to volunteer their time to, and understand the benefits of, service to their community.

Tutoring kids at Friday Night School in Richmond every week for my Duke of Ed service has not only taught me about the importance of patience whilst having fun with the kids, but also about community involvement. And since I began this service in Year 9 I have helped out at other schools, events and for an ambulance service in an effort to be more engaged with my community after learning its importance through the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

- Anna Frazer, Silver Award Over the last 3 years I have been a member of St John Ambulance Australia. This was the perfect choice as my service for Duke of Ed because it has taught me how to help others through providing first aid, as well as teaching me valuable leadership skills. As a Youth Leader for my division I have been able to teach young people how they can save lives no matter who they are. This opportunity has been extremely rewarding and has made me a more knowledgeable person.

- Sarah White, Gold Award

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Music JANET DAWSON | ACTING DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

Music is the universal language which unites us all.

It is wonderful therapy and connects students in ways that no other medium can. It requires commitment – to ensembles, choirs and to practise.

During Semester Two, our dedicated staff provided many enriching and inspirational performance opportunities which allowed students of all ages, and levels of proficiency, to develop their skills, build confidence and ignite their musical passion.

Students achieved excellent results in all musical disciplines and the department presented 16 concerts during the semester, including our spectacular Annual Music Concert at Hamer Hall.

At this year’s Annual Music Concert, in the spirit of our 2017 College theme, ‘In Unity We Serve’, all year levels formed a College Choir and a stirring rendition of the song ‘Standing On the Shoulders’ was sung.

All choirs and ensembles were beautifully presented and items had been rehearsed to a very high standard of performance by our dedicated music staff.

The Senior and Junior Soloists Concert showcased many gifted musicians and singers and our Evening of Jazz and Contemporary Music was also an outstanding success. 65 students representing 13 ensembles performed to a packed and enthusiastic audience.

The evening provided the perfect opportunity for students to display amazing commitment to their respective ensembles and present polished performances to our community.

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

Another highlight was the Stringout Concert which was held in the Montagner Auditorium. Over 150 students participated in this wonderful performance which is a non-compulsory event that many students look forward to participating in every year.

Our Concerto Concert provided a platform for nine dedicated musicians who were privileged to perform with a professional orchestra. The evening was an outstanding success and a tribute to the hard work undertaken by staff and students.

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DECEMBER 2017

Other popular concerts included the Ensembles Concert, the Woodwind Christmas Concert, the Year 4, 5, 6 Instrumental Program Concert, and our Genazzano Christmas Concert which was a wonderful event that brought our College community together to celebrate. It has yet again been an outstanding year for Music at Genazzano.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Sport MATTHEW WESSON | DIRECTOR OF SPORT

Sport plays a major role in College life and 2017 was no different. We saw around 650 students competing in 24 different sports, in over 70 different teams and age divisions. In particular, the Saturday Netball Program at Boroondara had more than 470 Gen girls participating in 46 teams throughout the Winter Season.

A number of traditional internal events were once again very successful: House Swimming Carnival: Congratulations to Winter, winners of the Grand Aggregate Champion House. A special mention to Lily Hall (Year 9), who won the Fastest 50m Event for the fourth year in a row, in a time of 28.68 seconds.

House Diving Carnival: The Grand Aggregate Champion for the House Diving Carnival was d’Houet.

House Athletics Carnival: The Grand Aggregate Champion for the House Athletics Carnival was Corry. Congratulations to Annalise Bush (Year 12), who won the Fastest 100m Event for the third year in a row, with a time of 12.75 seconds.

SSV @ Gen 2017 saw more than 85 students across Years 3 to 6 participate as squad members in SSV and other representative teams. Students competed in Swimming, Cross Country, Track & Field carnivals, plus the Year 5/6 Sport Education Program, Hooptime Basketball, Victorian Schoolgirls Netball , SSV Netball), Soccer and Water Polo.

Celebration of Sport Evening This year’s Celebration of Sport Evening was held on Tuesday 10 October and was again very well attended, with more than 400 people gathering in the Madeleine Centre. Sport awards were given to the most valuable player in each sport (by age groups) and a Coach’s Award for Team Spirit & Sportsmanship. Additionally, every student who represented the College in at least one sport over the previous 12 months received a certificate acknowledging this feat.

Service to Sport Award Medal Recipients Early Middle Years (Years 5-6) Upper Middle Years (Years 7-8) Later Years (Years 9-11)

Izabella Morrison Pia Kerr Gabrielle Clarke

Pierre De Coubertin Award Ruby Binios

SSV Sport and Academic Achievement Medal Samantha Bianco

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DECEMBER 2017

Genazzano Athletics NICK WALL | HEAD OF ATHLETICS

Achievements A number of wonderful achievements took place this semester.

These include but are not limited to: •

The 2017 International Sporting Tour travelled to Ireland, England, France and Belgium to play sport and further relations between sister FCJ schools.

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The achievements of both our Senior & Intermediate Netball squads who finished State Top 4 in the Victorian Schoolgirls Netball Championships.

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Our Senior Track & Field squad, who were not only Division 1 GSV Premiers, but also qualified for the national final in the Schools Knockout Competition.

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Four students qualifying for the Australian (National) Interschools Snowsports Championships.

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Catherine Renehan, Captain of the Victorian U15 Soccer team.

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Participation in the Victorian Schoolgirls Netball Championships.

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Participation in the McDonalds Cup Basketball Championships.

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Year 4 Hooptime Basketball becoming regional winners.

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Further developing the relationship between OLGC Tennis Club and Genazzano Sport, as we continue to strive to grow tennis and make best use of our tennis precinct.

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Clare Vearing (Year 12) becoming GSV Netball Representative team member for the second year in a row.

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Year 12 Valedictory Award winners: Sportswoman of the Year - Emily Kneale Team Spirit Award - Elizabeth Hill.

A steady growth in participation numbers and a rapid rise in performance has seen the 2017 Athletics season set a high and exciting standard for future years of athletic development at the College.

Superbly led by Athletics Captains, Olivia Owen and Sylvie Bischof, and arguably Genazzano’s most successful schoolgirl track and field athlete, Sports Captain Anna Bush, our magnificent team performance reflected the squad goals of whole school comradery and commitment to team success, rather than pursuits of individual performance.

The junior girls’ enthusiasm combined with the growing competence and confidence of our intermediate girls were the perfect ingredients to complement our highly talented senior squad. Whilst we collected titles aplenty in the senior years, it is the infectious aspiration of our younger girls that will see the program in an enviable position in coming years.

Just a short selection of the season highlights are listed below, whilst the absolute performance peak of the season is still to come, with 9 of our girls set to represent Victoria at the Australian Schools Knockout Championships in December in Adelaide.

Team Performance Highlights: •

Girls Sport Victoria Division 1 Senior Track & Field Champions.

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Athletics Victoria Senior Girls Schools Knockout Champions.

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Under 20 4x100 Victorian Champions Sam O’Connell, Olivia Owen, Sylvie Bischof and Anna Bush.

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Under 20 4x800 Victorian Bronze Medallists Alissa Ramsdale, Isabelle Brugliera, Emma Barham and Julie Fitt.

Individual Highlights: •

Under 20 1500m Victorian All Schools Champion Emma Barham.

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Under 20 200m Victorian All Schools Silver Medallist Olivia Owen.

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Under 17 200m Victorian All Schools Silver Medallist Joanna O’Connell.

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22 girls qualified for GSV Finals Night.

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20 GSV Finals Nights medals won (including 7 Gold).

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

OXAGEN Productions LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE (2000) | EDITOR

Ever dreamed of acting under lights? Want to hone your skills as a backstage crew member? Then OXAGEN Productions want you! Created as a theatre production company for Gen Alumnae and Old Xaverians, OXAGEN aims to promote the performing arts by providing opportunities for past students to produce and perform on stage.

GenNarrations sat down with Bianca Goring, Co-Founder & current Committee Member of OXAGEN, to get an insight into what inspires this performing arts troupe.

What initially inspired the creation of an alumni led performing arts group?

In the early stages of life as university students, we would often catch up as a group of school friends and lament the lack of music in our post-secondary school life. Quick Google searches suggested that there were local amateur theatre options to pursue, however the audition processes appeared too intimidating for those of us with a passion for music and theatre but who were not pursuing a career as a performer. Remembering the hundreds of Genazzano and Xavier students who participated in exceptional music and theatre productions each year, we wondered if we could connect with fellow alumni and plug a gap. OXAGEN Productions was therefore born out of an ambition to provide opportunities for alumni and the wider community to participate in the performing arts.

Who is OXAGEN led by?

The group is led by an elected committee who are responsible for nominating productions and establishing production teams. The production team is delegated responsibility for the creative carriage of a production and will work closely with the OXAGEN committee who support the production team to make their vision a reality.

The committee is comprised of alumni and members of the wider community who often simultaneously slip in to the role of producer, performer and board.

What have been the highlights of being involved with OXAGEN? The highlights for me personally are the friendships I’ve formed. With each production comes a plethora of new friends who share fantastic memories on and off the stage. We have been introduced to an astounding range of extraordinarily hard working and talented actors, directors, musicians, and designers and it’s always a joy to reach an opening night and acknowledge these many people whose passion and talent bring a show to fruition.

We’re also thrilled to have received many individual achievement and ensemble awards and nominations from The Music Theatre Guild of Victoria and Lyrebird Awards. Productions including, Guys and Dolls (2011), Spamalot (2012), WARPED (2013), Songs For A New World (2013), West Side Story (2013), Little Women (2014) O2, a Five Year Anniversary Gala (2014), Rosencrantz & Guildernstern are Dead (2015), The Wedding Singer (2016), and 12 Angry Jurors (2017) have been publically acclaimed by our peers.

How can others get involved and what types of roles (for cast and crew) are available?

We’re always looking to expand the OXAGEN community and there are many ways to get involved. You can like and follow us on Facebook (@oxagenproductions) and Twitter (@OXAGENProd), and subscribe to our email newsletter. OXAGEN relies on the support of an enormous ensemble of volunteer cast and crew to bring our shows to the stage, so if you have a skill or would like to learn one we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at: contact@oxagen.com.au

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Why is OXAGEN important to you and the Genazzano/Xavier communities?

Being a part of the music and theatre community at Genazzano was an experience that shaped the person I am today. The fact that I can continue this same creative collaboration with like minded people after school is why OXAGEN is such an important staple of the Genazzano and Xavier communities.

Just like a football club or rowing crew, OXAGEN provides opportunities for members of the Genazzano and Xavier College communities to connect through a shared passion. In a world constantly drawing us in to the relative isolation of social media, organisations like OXAGEN have never been more important.

What message would you like to get across to younger alumnae about OXAGEN and the potential for creative freedom and ongoing performance skills they will gain by being a part of the group?

To current students and recent alumni, we’d like to assure you that when you leave school, you don’t need to leave behind all the fun of music concerts, drama productions, house dances or art exhibitions.

OXAGEN is a wonderful community equally adept at providing a welcoming environment for a first time performer and a training ground for a budding professional. There are OXAGEN alumni working with the MTC, Opera Australia and Orchestra Victoria, and others enrolled in courses at WAAPA and the VCA. Most importantly, OXAGEN is a community that learns from each other and collaborates in a very supportive atmosphere. Our final message is don’t be intimidated to give it a go. There are always plenty of people to support you in any role you may want to try. We are still learning as well!

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The cast of The Wedding Singer (2016)

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The cast of Guys and Dolls (2011)

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The cast of West Side Story (2013)

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The cast of Guys and Dolls (2011)

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The cast of Little Women (2016)

“OXAGEN provides opportunities for members of the Genazzano and Xavier College communities to connect through a shared passion.”

What is Oxagen Production’s next performance?

It will be a season of the 2009 Tony Award winning ‘Next To Normal’ by Bill Yorkey and Tom Kitt.

The season will be presented at the Doncaster Playhouse from 2 -11 August 2018.

DECEMBER 2017

GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

2017 Outstanding Alumna - Dr Sarah McNab (1995) LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE (2000) | EDITOR

Dr Sarah McNab (Nunan) began her Genazzano journey as a Year 5 student in 1988, graduating Year 12 in 1995.

Dr McNab is a General Paediatrician in private practice at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and is a member of the Leadership Team in the Department of General Medicine, as well as the Clinical Lead of the Short Stay Unit. She also has a longstanding interest in Quality and Safety in Healthcare and mentoring junior medical staff.

Dr McNab completed a PhD in 2016 through the University of Melbourne and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Her research into the composition of intravenous fluid given to children around the world, described by the ABC as a “landmark study”, found that increasing the sodium levels in fluids given to hospitalised children could prevent the serious side effects of IV drip use, including brain swelling and even death.

Her study and research has led doctors in Australia and around the globe to change the standard fluid that they prescribe, therefore providing monumental life-saving implications for children world-wide.

Dr McNab has presented her work internationally; she was a finalist for the New Investigator Award at the International Congress of Paediatrics and was awarded the Best Student Abstract at the Paediatric Academic Societies’ annual meeting in Vancouver. Her PhD work was published in the Lancet, which is one of the world’s leading and most prestigious independent general medical journals.

Dr McNab’s achievements have been recognised and applauded by numerous paediatricians, with her research supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, The Royal Children’s Hospital, and the Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.

Not only is Dr McNab an accomplished Paediatrician, but she is also a passionate Mum and wife with a young family consisting of three gorgeous sons, Jack, Hugo and Ted. Dr McNab has always had a deep ardour for the well-being of children and a devotion for social justice Described by her former Genazzano class mate and dear friend, Ruth McClelland (1995) as, “One of those exceptional people who is immediately liked by everyone who meets her; a rare talent. Sarah is a very caring and passionate individual that can balance the serious with the light-hearted… she was always popular in our year level at Gen and was friends with many girls from other year levels too. In addition to her caring heart, Sarah is very intelligent, and despite the work that comes with raising children, Sarah has without doubt made the most of this gift and excelled to the highest levels of her profession.”

Dr McNab is undoubtedly an inspiration for all Genazzano students and our College community, who can see from her shining example that being both a devoted wife and Mum, is compatible with a successful and fulfilling professional career – a stunning feat of hard work, support and perseverance, coupled with both a true love of learning and family. The criteria for the Outstanding Alumna Award includes both Career Achievements and Service to Others. It is clear that Dr McNab has devoted not only her time and expertise, but also her unwavering passion to serve others in need - creating a bright future for children around the world.

She has demonstrated an unwaveringly commitment to not only her own community, but communities around the world, and so we acknowledge her dedication and sincerely thank her for her commitment to improving the lives of others.

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DECEMBER 2017

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Outstanding Alumnae Awards Evening AMANDA PRESTA (CASABENE, 2002) | DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS COORDINATOR

Since its inception in 1995, the Genazzano FCJ College Council has awarded an Outstanding Alumna by recognising the contributions of a special past student who has the courage and confidence to make a difference in the world, and who is an inspiring role model for both our students and young women of today.

On Wednesday 30 August, Dr Sarah McNab was welcomed back to the College along with her husband, David and two of her three sons, Jack and Hugo. Dr McNab’s family, friends, Genazzano students and members of the wider College community gathered in the Furlan Hall for Music and the Performing Arts and enjoyed canapes and conversation as our College Flute Quartet played in the background.

There was a buzz in the room, particularly with Sarah’s peers who were full of admiration for their friend’s wonderful achievement.

The congregation then moved into the Montagner Auditorium where our College Captains, Marie lliadis and Sophie Zebrowski, welcomed guests and introduced themselves as hosts for the evening. Our prefects played an active role in the evening with Library Prefect, Julia Revere reading the Acknowledgement of the Land, whilst Liturgy Prefect, Madeleine Anderson-Lucic led us in prayer. Our College Principal, Karen Jebb emphasised the importance of gathering on such occasions to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our alumnae. Guests where then wowed by the Chamber Flute Ensemble, who performed an arrangement of ‘Proud Mary’ before the Chair of College Council, Kevin Frawley, took to the stage to present the 2017 Outstanding Alumna Award to Dr Sarah McNab.

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After graciously and humbly accepting the award, Dr McNab was invited to be seated alongside journalist and former College Council Member, Kathy Bowlen, who conducted an insightful interview with Dr McNab, touching on her time at Gen and how it shaped her career as a Paediatrician.

Guests were then upstanding and joined in on a lively performance of the College song by members of the Chamber Flute Ensemble. The evening was concluded with a speech by the College Captains and all guests were treated with cupcakes by Alumna, Monique Milenkovic from ‘The Cupcake Queens’ on behalf of the Alumnae Association.

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Kathy Bowlen interviewing Sarah McNab with College Captains Marie Iliadis & Sophie Zebrowsk in the background

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Chair of College Council, Mr Kevin Frawley with College Principal, Ms Karen Jebb

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Performance by the Chamber Flute Ensemble

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Dr Sarah McNab with her lifelong Gen friends

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Dr Sarah McNab, Mr Tim Smith (State Member for Kew), Dr Judith Paphazy and Ms Karen Jebb

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Dr Sarah McNab with her family

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DECEMBER 2017

Gen Cup 2 Go Initiative with Sustainability Prefect Sara Gucciardo LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE (2000) | EDITOR

Inspired by the ABC’s War on Waste, Genazzano has developed an important sustainability initiative to curb wasteful disposable coffee cup usage at our College.

A staggering estimate of 1 billion disposable cups are consumed in Australia every year, with 1 million added to landfill every minute!

Disposable cups take up to 50 years to biodegrade – a huge impact on our Earth, and one that we can work to lessen in the years to come.

We believe in making a change for the better, so our initiative to create a Genazzano branded ‘Gen Cup 2 Go’ reusable cup has been pioneered by our Sustainability Prefect, Sara Gucciardo, and all student Sustainability Representatives throughout the College. The reusable cups are made from hard BPA-free plastic and have been enthusiastically received by both students and staff alike.

The ‘Gen Cup 2 Go’ initiative aims to educate the whole College community about waste and our universal impact on not only our immediate surroundings, but the planet as a whole. It focuses on why taking responsibility for our individual and community environmental footprint is so important.

By taking a stance to lead by example, Genazzano and its actionforward students are leading the way and making a commitment to our communities, both local and global, to ensure the next generation adapts to a new and innovative way of thinking about our environment.

Miss Gucciardo is enthusiastic and confident that the initiative will continue to make an important impact on every member of the Genazzano community and broaden understanding around the issue of waste and our contribution to it.

“It is exciting to think that our College is playing a very important role in society to do all we can to lessen our waste footprint, and to educate both students and staff as much as possible about why it is imperative to ensure sustainability in our future.”

The ‘Gen Cup 2 Go’ initiative has also aided in highlighting other environmental waste problems, such as incorrect recycling and disposal methods. As Miss Gucciardo states, “Takeaway cups have such a negative impact on our society. They pose a problem because people aren’t aware that many of these cups can be recycled, but they just aren’t properly disposed of. We live in a convenient-focused, throw-away society and disposable cups just highlight this.”

To bring awareness to this issue, the Sustainability Prefect and Junior School Sustainability Representatives ran a Rubbish Bin Design Competition for students in Years 5 to 8, which allowed the girls to learn about what materials can and cannot be placed in waste and recycling bins. This kind of waste curbing innovation is just another example of how Genazzano students are committed to protecting our precious planet.

DECEMBER 2017

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Alumnae Stories Northern Territory Creative in Residence Artist Represents at Venice Biennale Charles Darwin University Arts Lecturer and Visual Artist, Sarah Pirrie (1988), was announced back in March by the Northern Territory Government as one of three artists to take part in the Creative in Residence program that will produce exciting works of art in collaboration with some of the NT’s most iconic cultural venues.

Ms Pirrie set her sights on developing a companion guide for Darwin’s coastline by researching and interweaving personal narratives, historical events, places and ecological phenomena at the Northern Territory Library.

Director for Arts NT, Angela Hill, stated that she was pleased to see the commencement of this new initiative developed in partnership with the cultural venues and congratulated Sarah on her involvement.

Ms Hill cited the program as an exciting opportunity for local artists to work closely with NT cultural institutions, explore their collections and gain inspiration to produce new art works for public enjoyment.

Ms Pirrie was also invited to attend the Venice Biennale 2017 Professional Development Program to represent the Northern Territory. She will take on the role of NT Exhibition Team Leader, managing a team of volunteer exhibition attendants, as well as Australia’s first solo Indigenous artist to exhibit at the Venice Biennale, Tracey Moffatt.

Bartercard Australia International Award for Outstanding Performance Katinka Zagon (1988) received the International Grand Master Award for Outstanding Performance as a Leading Business Consultant at Bartercard Australia, one of the world’s largest business to business networks. Katinka’s service has spanned over 15 years and she was described by Bartercard Australia as, “an inspiration, a natural leader and mentor to many”.

We congratulate Katinka for being recognised for her outstanding results in the field of business consultancy.

Alice to Sea – Making Tracks for Tiny Tots Georgina McMahon (Kerr, 1998) embarked on an incredible adventure back in June in support of the Mercy for Women Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The Alice to Sea Walk – Making Tracks for Tiny Tots was created by Georgina, and her friend Hollie, as the pair were inspired to help premature babies and their families. The cause is close to Georgina’s heart as a number of complications resulted in her and her husband Ryan’s 3 girls all being born prematurely.

Every year in Australia, over 48,000 newborn babies need the help of the NICU or Special Care Nursery, and 25,000 are born prematurely.

Five babies are stillborn every single day. By walking/riding nearly 1,800kms from Alice Springs to Broome along the Tanamia Track (often walking up to 50kms per day), Georgina and Hollie, through the support of their family, friends and community networks, including the Genazzano College community, were able to raise over $55,000 for NICU. Since Georgina’s return, she is looking to start a foundation to raise ongoing awareness for her cause and to support the many families who have had to endure the frightening experience of having their baby born early, or devastatingly, still born. The team at the Mercy Hospital have been overwhelmed by Georgina’s achievements and have requested her as an ongoing spokesperson. We congratulate Georgina’s in her brave and determined efforts to help those in need.

NAWIC Student of the Year Award Congratulations to Marielle Salom (2015) who received the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Student of the Year Award, which recognises the achievement of a student currently studying at an educational institution.

NAWIC is a not-for-profit organisation that seeks to promote and improve the construction industry through the advancement of women. Marielle, who is currently undertaking a Civil Engineering/ Commerce double degree at Monash University, was nominated by her colleague from CPB Contractors, where Marielle worked on the Blackburn Level Crossing Project.

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DECEMBER 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

UN Environmental Internship Alexandra Peters (2012) has recently undergone a 6 month internship at the UN in Geneva, Switzerland.

Alexandra’s internship was with the Environment Management Group, which supports UN members’ efforts in advancing the environmental dimensions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The internship followed Alexandra’s graduation from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor Degree in Environments, with Division A Second Class Honours.

Alexandra has also interned at AMP Capital in Sydney and is currently undergoing a Master of Science – Sustainability and Social Innovation at HEC Paris.

NATO Defense College Fellowship Win Elizabeth Buchanan (2006), has won the NATO Defense College Fellowship, sending her to Rome to study the military alliance’s Arctic Strategy.

Elizabeth is currently a Europa Fellow at the Australian National University’s Centre for European Studies, specialising in Russian foreign energy strategy, with a specific research interest in Russian polar strategy.

Since graduating from Genazzano, Elizabeth has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Politics and Philosophy) and an Honours Degree of Bachelor of Arts (Politics) from Monash University. She is now a PhD candidate at ANU, focusing her doctorate on Russia’s foreign energy strategy.

Her NATO Defence College Fellowship will examine the High North component (Arctic) of NATO’s North Atlantic strategy after the 2016 Warsaw Summit.

Upon winning the fellowship, Elizabeth reacted with mixed emotions. “Honestly, [I felt] a lot of self-doubt. Unfortunately, I think this is all too common with young researchers and particularly an ongoing issue for young women in a traditionally male dominated field. It took a little while to own the achievement. I had the winning project, CV and the panel decided to award me with the globally competitive fellowship. Then I was simply ecstatic.”

The College congratulates Elizabeth and wishes her all the best for her fellowship and all future endeavours.

Assoc. Prof. Ann Gervasoni (PhD, MEd (hons), BEd., DipT)

Genazzano College Council and Education & Innovation Committee member since 2017 Alumna and member of the Genazzano College Council, Associate Professor of Numeracy at Monash University, Ann Gervasoni (1978), was recently presented with the Alumna of the Year Award from Federation University Australia. Assoc. Prof. Gervasoni was awarded the recognition due to the development of an early mathematics intervention program, used in hundreds of schools across Australia, as part of her PhD. As Federation University states, “Ann has made a distinguished contribution to education in teaching, research and community engagement, focusing on early and primary Mathematics Education.”

Assoc. Prof. Gervasoni has partnered with The Smith Family and Professor Bob Perry to develop the Let’s Count Program. She has also partnered with schools in Ballarat to introduce Maths Clubs for children living in financially disadvantaged communities, and currently partners with a number of principals and maths leaders in NSW to transform mathematics learning and teaching.

In 2008, Assoc. Prof. Gervasoni also led the introduction of the Clemente Program in partnership with several Ballarat institutions, including Federation University. The program enables Australians who are marginalised to engage in tertiary education.

Assoc. Prof. Gervasoni’s previous professional appointments include primary school teacher and leader, mathematics consultant with the Catholic Education Office Melbourne, and Senior Lecturer at Australian Catholic University in Ballarat. She was awarded an Australian Learning and Teaching Council Citation in 2009 for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning, the 2011 Mathematics Education Group of Australasia’s Research Award as part of the Early Numeracy Research Project Team, and the 2016 Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia’s Beth Southwell Practical Implications Award for the Let’s Count Program.

As an author and editor of several books, Assoc. Prof. Gervasoni was invited to chair the International Commission on Mathematics Instruction 2015 and has been a visiting scholar of Aarhus University in Copenhagen, Denmark and Bielefeld University in Bielefeld, Germany.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

A Tribute to Sr Catherine Moore, fcJ A MESSAGE FROM THE FCJ SISTERS

Catherine Mary Jeannie Moore was born to Aileen and William Leonard Moore in the family home of ‘Tooloonook’ in Yarram on May 27, 1952. Known to her family and friends as Kay, she was the youngest of the twelve Moore children.

Of all the people I have ever known during my many years connected with Genazzano, I do not think any other person has as many family members who attended Genazzano as Catherine Moore did.

Catherine’s grandmother, Ellen Corry, was the first boarder to attend Genazzano and one of the six houses is named after her. Her mother Aileen and her four older sisters, Margaret (Peg Hayden), Mary, Barb and Frances (Frankie) all attended Genazzano, as did innumerable nieces, great-nieces and cousins.

From Benalla, Catherine went to Stella Maris College in Frankston for two years, before studying for a year at the Mater Dei Institute in Dublin and then spending two years at the FCJ Generalate in Broadstairs, England, where she worked in the local parish with the RC.I.A programme and several prayer groups. On returning from England, Catherine was missioned to Adelaide from 2002 – 2010.

Here, she was very active in the Jesuit parish in Norwood, as well as being the local leader in her FCJ Community.

In 1936, Catherine’s eldest brother, John, joined the Jesuits and was one of the first Australians to go to the Jesuit Mission in India, where he subsequently spent most of his priestly life. Much later on, Catherine had the great joy of visiting her brother John in the Jesuit Mission in Hazaribagh.

In 2010, Catherine returned to the FCJ community in Kew and her alma mater of Genazzano, where she was able to visit her much-loved sister Mary, until she passed away at the Mary Mackillop Aged Care Hostel in East Hawthorn, where she had been living.

In 1943, Catherine (aged 10) began school as a boarder at Genazzano and thus began her happy lifelong association with the FCJ’s. However, it was only two years later in 1945 that both parents of the twelve Moore’s died only six months apart. Catherine by then was only 13 years old. However, good things did come to the family in this period. One was the arrival of the Italian prisoners-of-war whose labour on the farm helped ‘Tooloonook’ survive the war. Ezio, the chef, was a great help to Mary (Catherine’s 2nd eldest sister) in the kitchen.

Catherine sometimes spoke about the Italians, several of them returned after the war as immigrants and lifelong friendships were formed by them with the Moore family.

Rosemary Crow, fcJ entered the FCJ Convent in Kew with Catherine.

Others who entered with Catherine and Rosemary were Loretta Byrne, fcJ (dec), Wendy Banfield (now a Carmelite), Bernadette Lenehan (dec) and Joyce Stewart, fcJ. Kay Moore asked for and was given the name Mary Bernard, after one of her uncles whom she admired. Afterwards she changed back to her own name, Catherine. One of her fellow novices remembered Catherine as having a “wacky” sense of humour and a fund of jokes.

After entering the FCJ Convent, Catherine was missioned to look after the boarders’ refectory at Genazzano and begin her teacher training. In 1970 she took a teaching position at FCJ College in Benalla, where she “fell in love with the convent dog Georgie and it was a familiar sight to see Catherine cycling round the streets of Benalla, with Georgie in the basket”.

Catherine was happy to return to Benalla in 2012, where she again took over the garden and, once again visited house-bound parishioners and participated in parish activities. However, Catherine’s health deteriorated noticeably during these four years at Benalla Catherine too moved into the Mary Mackillop Aged Care facility.

Jenny Moore, a niece of Catherine, who gave part of her eulogy said at the end: “Mine is only one of the variety of versions that any one of her many nieces and nephews could talk about. We say goodbye to Sr Catherine, a dedicated and caring FCJ, but we also say goodbye to Kay, the babysister to 11 siblings and an amazing aunt, great-aunt and great-great aunt to many nieces and nephews.”

The FCJ Sisters miss Catherine’s companionship and presence in our lives, but we also rejoice that her suffering is over and she is now united with her faithful companion Jesus, her parents, elder siblings, and all her FCJ sisters who have gone before her.

Rest in peace, dear Catherine.

Sr Maryrose Dennehy fcJ, would like to acknowledge the great help of Dick Moore, Rosemary Crowe, fcJ and Jenny Moore in writing this article.

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DECEMBER 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

We Remember PAST PARENTS

COLLEGE COMMUNITY

1.

Marcia Anne Barmby: Wife of Bryan (dec). Mother of Julie Ruffy (1976), Lisa (1980), Paul and David. Grandmother of Lucy (2011), Tom, Tara, Sophie and Charlotte.

15. Brian Crowe: Husband of Jeanne, brother of Sr Rosemary FCJ, and Robert (Bob) dec. Brother-in-law of Joan Crowe, former staff and uncle of Suzanne, Helen, Judy and Jane.

2.

Christopher (Chris) De Fraga: Father of Genevieve (1982).

3.

Wivine De Stoop: Wife of Roger (dec), mother of Dominique, Frederic, Christine Johnston (1963), Pascal and Wynette.

16. Julianne Howells: Sister of Barbara, Rosemary, Elizabeth, all alumnae and Fr Ian Howells SJ.

4.

Paul Desmond Fitzgerald AM: Husband of Mary-Clare (1948), father of Fabian, Marisa (alumna), Patrick (dec), Emma, Edward (Ted), Maria (1987), Frances Wright (1990), nephew of Sr Bernadette Fitzgerald, fcJ.

5.

Kathleen Mary Cunningham: Mother of Jennifer Ainsworth (1967), Helen Cunningham (1969), Peter and Michael.

6.

Riordan Lorraine Frances: Mother of Lynda Cooper (1972), Tony, Brian, Charlie and Philip (dec).

7.

Joan McLennan: Mother of Meg McCardel (1963), Rosemary and Elizabeth both alumnae, grandmother of Kate Roberts (1986), Clare McCardel (1997) and Chloe McCardel (2002).

8.

David Anthony Robin: Husband of Therese (1971), father of Sarah (1995), Lisa (1999) and Joanna (2007).

9.

Kevin Timms: Father of Angela Anker (1970), Libby Tobin (1972), and Maggie Dureau (1976).

10. Patricia Therese Wells (Lee): Wife of Andrew George Wells (dec). Mother of Catherine Zuluaga (Wells, 1976), Carmel Wells (1980), Margaret Kerby (1970), Barbara Quinn (1966) and Anthony Wells.

11. Margaret (Billie) Zachariah: Wife of Louis Zachariah (dec), mother of Louis Anthony “Tony” (1949) (dec), Margaret (1961), Carol (1965), John, Paul, Neil, David, Julie (1975 and former staff member) and Ann (1980). Mother-in-law to Jennifer, Ian, Beverley and Philip. Grandmother of 12, great-grandmother of 8.

COLLEGE COMMUNITY 12. John Briffa: Brother of Marlene Ennis (1966), Julie O’Sullivan (1969), Annette Briffa, Michelle Briffa (1988), and Vicki Wrigley (1990).

13. Tony Brown-Graham: Brother of Margaret Murray (1953), Mary-Lou Davies (1955) and Sr Barbara Brown Graham fcJ (1963).

14. Noel Rowan (1930): An old boy of Genazzano, father of Dana (1975), and Virginia (1976) and Andrew. Son of Dr Rowan.

17. Michael Joseph McKeagney: Husband of Dororthy (dec) and Maria. Father of Jennifer, James and Dianne. Father-in-law of Gerald, Bernadette and Ben. Grandfather of Brigid McKeagneyDouglas (Year 12), Fionnuala, Caiti-Mai and Imogen.

18. Jennifer Zachariah: Wife of Louis Anthony “Tony” Zachariah (1949), mother of Andrew and Brendan, grandmother to Tiana, Sara, Jessica, Samuel and Billie.

19. Louis Anthony (Tony) Zachariah: Son of Louis Zachariah (dec) and Margaret Zachariah (dec). Brother to Margaret (1961), Carol (1965), John, Paul, Neil, David, Julie (1975 and former staff member) and Ann (1980). Loving husband of Jennifer “Jenny” (dec), father of Andrew and Brendan. Father-in-law to Michelle and Belinda. Pop to Tiana, Sara, Jessica, Samuel and Billie.

ALUMNAE 20. Avril Goldstone (1942): Mother of Vicki Rainford (1974), Phillip, Chris and Kathy (dec), grandmother of Emily RainfordGaljar (2014).

21. Helen Mary McGuinness (1962): Sister of Brian, Paul and Margaret (1971).

22. Francoise (Tikki) Silk (Douez, 1948): Sister of Janine Cordier (1944, dec), Jo Pleasance (1948), Monique (dec), Giggi O’Donohue and Edward (Teddy).

23. Sr Mary Spring (1940): Beloved member of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary with 72 years of religious profession.

24. Julianne Turner (McDonald, 1966): Wife of John.

25. Elizabeth Marie (Betty) Whelan (1950): Mother of Jane (1977), Anne Marie (1978), Fiona, Elizabeth, James, Andrew and Peter.

26. Sr Catherine Moore, fcJ (1949): Grand daughter of Ellen Corry (1887), daughter of Aileen Moore (1909), sister of Margaret (Peg) Hayden (1933), Mary (1938), Barbara (all deceased) and Frances (1944).

27. Jacqueline Edith Slattery (Murphy, 1949): Wife of Ron, mother of Julie and Edith, mother-in-law of Patrick and Graeme.

Grandmother of Stephanie Ohis (2016), Alexander, Thomas and Charlotte.

DECEMBER 2017

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

COMMUNITY NEWS

We Remember

Sr Mary Dorothy Spring, SMSM (5/12/23 – 8/9/17)

Mary was born to Frank and Dorothy Spring in December of 1923. She was the elder sister of Helen Forrest (dec, nee Spring) and Thomas Spring (dec).

Mary began her studies at Genazzano in 1929 and when she was 16 years old she told her parents that she wanted to spend her life as a missionary sister. They were of the opinion that Mary was too young to make such a decision and that with time she may change her mind. They encouraged her to continue to wait and to further her education as they thought she was far more suited to a life of teaching than that of a missionary sister.

Mary had lived a very comfortable life, was very smart and very musical.

In 1943, it became evident that Mary was not going to change her mind and that her parents would need to support her choice.

Mary had indeed already commenced at University prior to this, but her heart was not in it. Her mother also encouraged her to work at the Victoria Barracks where she experienced what her mother termed, “at least a little Colonial experience”. The Victoria Barracks was the centre of operations and administration in war time Melbourne during WW2.

As it was war time, their main worry then was getting Mary, still aged just 19 years old, safely over to the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) in New Zealand. Dr Lyons, administrator of the St Patrick’s Cathedral Melbourne had been trying to get her a priority berth in a plane but was having much difficulty, however by mid-February 1943 Mary arrived safely in NZ to begin her life as a missionary sister.

Mary taught in the schools in Samoa and Fiji. She taught many of the Samoan SMSM’s and she also taught generations of Samoan women. She had a meticulously kept science lab and brought nature into the classrooms there. Mary also taught the piano and organ to hundreds of children when she wasn’t organising their performances in many much-loved musicals.

Mary dedicated a number of years of her religious life as a Marist missionary to educating children, who remain forever grateful.

Her love and faithfulness extended to her teaching in general community living.

Generations of Islander women owe much to Sr Mary Dorothy for her love, dedication and devotion to their formation and education. She will be remembered by them and her Australian family for a long time to come.

Bernadette Batten (niece of Sr Mary Dorothy Spring)

Jacqueline Edith Slattery (nee Murphy, Alumna 1950)

Mum spent 13 years of education at Genazzano FCJ College, then studied Physiotherapy at Melbourne University, and later, Ergonomics. A dedicated career woman, Mum worked into her 70’s in her private practice, ‘Berger Nielsen & Slattery’ Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy Centre in Footscray and East St Kilda. Mum and Dad (Ron) also ran ‘Slattery’s BnB’ from their home in North Fitzroy for many years.

Mum was always very proud of her school, Genazzano, which formed her into a wonderful role model and mother to both myself and my sister Edith, as well as an admired mother-in-law to Patrick and Graeme, and a devoted grandmother to Stephanie (Alumna, 2016), Alexander, Thomas and Charlotte.

Julie Ohis (Slattery, Past Parent)

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

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DECEMBER 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

Births

ALUMNAE 1.

Jasper John Frost born 14 August 2017. Son to Gemma and Kris.

STAFF 2.

Edward (Ned) Jack Parker born 7 September 2017.

Son to Gillian and Shane.

3.

Georgina Mary Lynch born 10 June 2017.

Daughter to Eamon and Julia.

4.

Edith Joyce Love born 29 October 2017.

Daugther to Carmen and Matt.

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2

3

4

Weddings GoldenWedding Anniversary Jenni & Peter Bolton (Jennifer Bolton, Class of 1964) are celebrating their Golden (50 years) Wedding Anniversary on December 12. On that date in 1967 they were married in Xavier College Chapel attended

by Jenni’s twin sister Diana and Peter’s brother John.

This special milestone will be celebrated by a trip to Uluru and dinner at Field of Lights.

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2

3

ALUMNAE 1.

Sophie Boutsakis (2005), married Jono Meehan on 26 August 207 at the Carmelite Monastry Chapel in Kew, follwed by a reception at Fenix

2.

Michelle Briffa (1988) married Peter Taylor on 9 September 2017 at the Genazzano FCJ Chapel followed by a reception at Eureka 89.

3.

Erin Hempenstall (2001) married Tristan Jones on 22 October 2016 at the Genazzano FCJ College Chapel.

DECEMBER 2017

36

COMMUNITY NEWS

CLASS OF 1967 50 year reunion

GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY

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DECEMBER 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

CLASS OF 1976 40 year reunion

CLASS OF 1992 25 year reunion

DECEMBER 2017

38

GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Genazzano Mothers’ Association JACQUI PIRONE | PRESIDENT GMA

The Genazzano Mothers’ Association have had another wonderful and very busy year in 2017 and our final term was brimming with social gatherings and College functions requiring the GMA support.

Our Annual Ball at the Park Hyatt was held on Saturday 19 August and was an amazing evening. The night had a wonderful vibe as everyone embraced the theme, ‘Hollywood’. The band played great music, the dinner was superb and the fundraising was a fun way of raising funds for the College. It was terrific to be able to welcome parents from all year levels as well. Thanks to all who attended.

Planning began for the ‘GMA Hollywood Ball’ in August 2016 with a very enthusiastic committee. I’d like to acknowledge them all and thank them for their hard work and commitment. Johanna Nesbitt who co-chaired the committee, along with Carmel Greer, Zana Bytheway, Sonia Cappellazzo, Anne Dustan, Jean Losinno, Franca Henger, Cathy Frawley, Angelina Lentini, Belinda Wilson, Danielle Di Cosmo and Debbie Rossi. The rapport amongst the committee was terrific and I have no doubt that the friendships made will not only continued, but be treasured by all of them. A truly amazing group of generous women. As usual, we were greatly supported by the College and we thank the staff for their assistance.

We have already started planning for the 2018 Ball, so stayed tuned!

Current, past parents and alumnae are warmly invited to our Annual Ball, so please look out for your invitation next year. It is an event not to be missed.

It has been both a privilege and honour to work as president of the GMA in 2017. I would like to thank the executive committee, Jean Losinno, Johanna Nesbitt, Carmel Carrazzo, Libby Meaden and Franca Henger for their unfailing support to me and the GMA. My gratitude also goes to all the coordinators, year level representatives and other committee members who have worked so hard over the year and had such a positive impact on our parent community.

A special thanks to the parents of the senior years who have imparted their experience and knowledge which was invaluable. I feel blessed for these friendships.

I will be handing over the President role at the end of this year, with a new President being elected at our AGM on 13 November.

I encourage all Mums and guardians to get involved in the GMA. Apart from working with the College and the teachers who instruct our daughters, it is extremely rewarding to give back on a personal level and the friendships made will transcend the years, which is a wonderful gift from Genazzano FCJ College.

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DECEMBER 2017

Genazzano Fathers’ Association BRUCE MACISAAC | PRESIDENT GFA

This second semester has seen the GFA hard at work supporting the College and finding opportunities for fathers to meet with each other and spend special time with their daughters.

Last term, the Year 7’s spent a great weekend with their Dads at the YMCA’s Manyung Recreation camp in Mornington, one of the last unspoilt spots along the Port Philip coastline on the Peninsula.

This was followed by the Year 8’s camp at the YMCA’s Mt Evelyn Recreation Camp which was also so beautiful. There were lots of activities at both camps including a giant swing, flying fox, archery and the tree top challenge. Dinner was prepared by the fathers and the girls even ate their vegetables because they were BBQ’d with love.

The annual GFA Footy Lunch was another massive event this year, with over 425 attendees. Held in the largest room at Etihad Stadium we heard a few war stories from former football greats Tony Shaw, Mick Malthouse and David King. This event is very important as it funds many of our Father/Daughter activities, our BBQ’s to support College events and our annual donation to the school.

It is a not to be missed event, and we would love to welcome you next year – just by being there you are supporting the College and your daughter.

This year marked the 25th anniversary of the GFA and the Principal invited all the past GFA Presidents to a lunch to thank them for their contribution, presenting each one with a College tie, which were also presented to the retiring members of the committee and our new office bearers. We were also honoured with the presence of Adrian Farrell, the 2nd GFA President, and Michael Conyers, our 5th GFA President representing the original 1992 committee. They told us of a few funny stories from the past and explained why the GFA was formed by Sister Margaret Mary, fcJ. Following the tragic death of a member of the parent community, Sr. Margaret Mary was concerned that the men of the Genazzano community did not have the personal networks needed in times of crisis and as the leader of the College community she realised that many men felt isolated, so she wanted them to engage with their families and daughters and to find support not only within their family, but within the whole Genazzano community. Vale Sister Margaret Mary.

I would like to thank John Savage for representing the 1978 Committee and Judy Conway Crowe for representing the 1967 Committee on behalf of her father, an original member from that year, 50 years ago.

I would like to thank our retiring committee members: Peter Grounds, Lu Italiano, Simon Hourigan and Nicholas Psyhogios. In particular, I would like to personally thank Nick who has given so generously of his time, efforts and energy to support what he obviously believes is a worthwhile organisation.

I would also like to welcome our new members: Mark Gao, Jerome Joseph, Laurie Bertelle, Andrew Oxland and Bernie Hunt, as well Paul White, who will be leading our work over the next year. Please support them in supporting you.

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GenUnite Gen becomes the first Australian Catholic school to launch online alumnae communication platform ‘GenUnite’ via innovative global software ‘Graduway’.

For over a century, Genazzano has enjoyed an illustrious and meaningful history of Alumnae relations that dates back to the creation of the Old Girls’ Association in 1911.

Today, the Genazzano Alumnae Association continues to be a strong and supportive community of women who share a common history of education and friendship at Genazzano.

To ensure our community remains connected and able to communicate effectively and efficiently with one another and the College, Genazzano has partnered with Graduway to create a new online communication platform called, GenUnite. Utilising the technology capabilities of this innovative global software company, Graduway, who boast a client list of over 500 education and not-for-profit organisations, GenUnite will allow Genazzano Alumnae to connect like never before.

Genazzano is excited to be the first Australian Catholic education school to be using Graduway, which speaks volumes to the innovative approach to technology that the College is taking. GenUnite will allow the Genazzano Alumnae community, at home and abroad, to communicate with one another via:

real time feed updates; upcoming events; viewing and sharing photos; Alumnae focused news articles; connect with Alumnae in their professional fields; act as a portal to support the mentoring program at Genazzano; access a full Alumnae directory; search and advertise job opportunities; and create/join groups.

Genazzano’s Director of Development, Lucy Cohen, helped pioneer GenUnite via the Graduway software and is excited to be launching such an advanced communication platform within Catholic education.

“Having worked with Graduway to launch their first K-12 project in Australia in 2016, I was keen to re-engage with them in the Catholic sector. Graduway (GenUnite) provides a user-friendly, targeted and effective solution for schools to stay connected with Alumnae in a password protected environment. The Genazzano Alumnae Association and the College are excited about the potential of GenUnite to connect with our busy graduates and to provide opportunities for them to network and leverage contacts in a way that no other platform allows.”

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DECEMBER 2017

Upcoming Events CLASS OF 1958

CLASS OF 1968

Saturday 28 April 2018 Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club

Sunday 29 April 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

60 year reunion

CLASS OF 2008 10 year reunion Friday 15 June 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

50 year reunion

CLASS OF 2017 First year reunion Wednesday 14 November 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

CLASS OF 1973 45 year reunion

Date: Sunday 25 February 2018 Time: 12.30pm Venue: Kingston Hotel, Highett St, Richmond Further enquiries, please contact: Contact: Christine Hammett Tel: 9428 1912 or 0413 268 393 Email: christine-hammett@hotmail.com

CLASS OF 1998, 1988 & 1978 20, 30 & 40 year reunion Saturday 13 October 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

Invitations with further details about the reunions will be sent closer to the date.

College Community Events Genazzano Day Mass & Luncheon

Outstanding Alumnae Awards Evening

Memorial Mass

Sunday 29 April 2018

Wednesday 29 August 2018

Sunday 18 November 2018

Genazzano FCJ College 301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Telephone: +61 3 8862 1000 Facsimile: +61 3 8862 1133 Email: development@genazzano.vic.edu.au genazzano.vic.edu.au

CRICOS Provider Number: 03298G