Please advise us of any change in your personal contact details.
Email alumni@ivanhoe.com.au or contact Mirella Busso-Lee at Ivanhoe Grammar School PO Box 91, Ivanhoe 3079, Australia Phone (03) 9490 3407.
The Brown and White is a quarterly newsletter for alumni and supporters of Ivanhoe Grammar School.
Cover photo: The portrait of Gerard Foley, Ivanhoe Grammar School’s fifth Principal by Peter Smeeth FRAS, was unveiled at the Board of Governors Dinner in December 2025. Refer to ‘Around The School’ on p12 for more details.
A Strong Start to 2026
The 2026 school year commenced with positive momentum across all campuses. A comprehensive summer program of maintenance, upgrades and capital works ensured our facilities were well prepared to support learning, wellbeing, and cocurricular life.
Term One began with professional development for all staff, and Year 7 and 12 students participating in orientation days. The School quickly returned to full rhythm; classroom learning, sport, camps, rehearsals, and a wide range of co-curricular activities. Parent Welcome Evenings were exceptionally well attended, reinforcing the connection between the School and its families.
Outstanding Academic Outcomes – Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 achieved the strongest academic outcomes in recent years across both campuses – a source of pride for our School community.
Whole-School Outcomes (VCE + IB Combined):
• Median ATAR: 85.5
• Mean ATAR: 82.0
• 68% achieved an ATAR 80+
• 40% achieved an ATAR 90+
• 23% achieved an ATAR 95+
• 4% achieved an ATAR 99+
Both campuses recorded their strongest proportion of VCE Study Scores of 40+, and the IB cohort achieved a median ATAR equivalent of 90.6. These outcomes reflect growth in elite achievement bands and inclusive support for a diverse cohort, consistent with our identity as a genuinely open-entry school.
Leadership, Co-Curricular Life and Community
Student leadership has been a strong feature of the year’s opening weeks, with Captain and student leader inductions held alongside Honours Assemblies recognising achievement, service and character.
The AGSV sporting season is underway, complemented by
expanded physical activities such as park/run/walk, strength and conditioning, dance and yoga.
Co-curricular programs continue to grow, with record participation in Learn to Swim, Ivanhoe Dance and Ivanhoe Edge. The Cadet Program engaged nearly six hundred students in its December bivouac, and the volleyball program recorded its strongest-ever participation at the Australian Schools Volleyball Cup, achieving medal success across multiple divisions.
Community connections remain strong. The OIGA 50 Year Reunion welcomed forty alumni and the annual Captains Assembly welcomed thirtyfour former School Captains back to the School - an important reminder that Ivanhoe’s strength lies in lifelong connections.
Strategic Priorities: Literacy and Innovation
Two key academic priorities will shape the next phase of improvement:
• Exploring acceleration models in Mathematics and Languages in the Middle Years.
• Developing a coherent, wholeschool approach to writing - our most persistent literacy challenge. A school-wide literacy strategy will be developed in 2026, grounded in explicit and sequenced instruction from ELC to Year 12, with staged implementation from 2027 to 2030.
In parallel, the School continues its deliberate and thoughtful use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance learning and productivity, and use as a tool that deepens learning and supports staff.
Focus areas include personalised learning, streamlined assessment and reporting processes, and data tracking to enable earlier intervention and targeted support.
Since its inception, Ivanhoe Grammar School has balanced tradition with innovation. As we celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025 and commence 2026 with clarity and purpose, we remain committed to academic excellence, character formation and sustaining an engaged community.
Gerard Foley Principal
John Palmer Dawson AM
John Dawson (’61), who passed away in December, was one of the School’s most respected names from the Brown Era and a member of the School’s Gallery of Achievement.
Born in 1943, John was a student at the School from 19481961 and in his final year, was School Captain and Captain of the First XVIII. John was one of the founding players for the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Football Club in Round 1, 1964, and his dedication and leadership were instrumental in shaping the club into what it is today.
John completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne and then embarked on a highly distinguished banking career in Australia and internationally. This includes a 30-year career at National Australia Bank and the Bank of Queensland.
In 2001, John was Agent General and Queensland Government Commissioner based in London. Following his retirement, he returned to Australia and lived in Queensland.
John served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Australian Bankers’ Association, and Chairman of the Australian Banking Ombudsman Ltd.
In 2008, he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) ‘for service to business, particularly the banking and finance sector and to the development of relations between Australia and Britain.’
The OIGA mourns his passing and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
Judge James Lloyd Parrish SC
James Parrish (’70), a much-respected member of the School’s community, passed away in January. James attended the School from 1965 to 1970 and later studied at Monash University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1973 and Bachelor of Law in 1977. He was admitted to the Bar in 1978.
James was a highly regarded barrister for over 30 years. His area of expertise primarily revolved around personal injury matters extending to workers compensation, common law claims for damages in respect of industrial accidents, medical negligence, transport accidents and occupiers’ liability.
James was a past Chairman of the Victorian Compensation Bar Association. In 2003 he was appointed Senior Counsel for the State of Victoria and in December 2009 was appointed a Judge of the County Court of Victoria.
He retired in 2023 which enabled greater involvement with the Old Ivanhoe Law Society (OILS), where he generously shared much of his time, experience and legal knowledge with students at all stages of their legal career. Unfortunately, his illness cut short the next chapter of service to OILS and his profession.
James is a member of the School’s Gallery of Achievement, was a generous donor to the School, and a trusted mentor to many within our alumni community. The OIGA extents its sincere condolences to James’s wife Prue and his extended family.
Noel’s Final Performance
The first series of the hit ABC show ‘The Piano’ was broadcast last May, in which regular Australians are invited to play the piano at iconic public locations in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. The series explored how the piano has the power to transform lives, creating refuge, joy and friendship.
One of the participants in the 2026 season is Noel Griffith OAM (’47). A qualified engineer, he retired at age 52 to pursue his love of music. Noel worked at the School as Music Secretary in the early 1980s and spent the remainder of his working life performing recitals, and mentoring, teaching and guiding music students.
In the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Noel was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his service to music and to the community.
At the age of 96, Noel was invited by the ABC to participate in The Piano. With limited vision, filming took place in both his home and at Dandenong Market. With Patricia, his wife of 72 years, by his side, Noel played Mendelssohn’s ‘On Wings of Song’
Unfortunately, shortly after filming finished, Noel passed away, so did not see the episode in which he made his final public appearance.
The School remembers Noel as a graceful humanitarian and a wonderful Ivanarian. His son Ian (’71) and grandsons Nixon (’12) and Henry (‘15) also attended the School.
The Piano (ABC) 2026 commenced on 15 March. The program featuring Noel is scheduled for Episode 5..
Keys to the City
Last December, Ben Clark (’02), a member of the acclaimed music ensemble The Ten Tenors, was one of several past and present members of the group to receive the Keys to the City of Brisbane by the Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, recognising their 30-year global contribution to music in that city.
The Ten Tenors joined a very esteemed club of music groups that have received this honour; the others being Powderfinger, The Bee Gees and Savage Garden.
Since The Ten Tenors was formed in 1995, the group has performed extensively in Australia and overseas, and released more than 20 albums, many of which have achieved platinum and gold status.
Ben has forged a path as one of Australia’s most sought-after National Anthem singers, having performed for some of Australia’s biggest sporting events, including the 2023/24 Boxing Day Test at the MCG. He began touring with The Ten Tenors in 2008 and is currently appearing with his fellow tenors as part of their 30th Anniversary World Tour in North America.
From Heidelberg to Hollywood
Professor Jason Trubiano (’99), who is an Infectious Diseases Physician and Director of Infectious Diseases at Austin Health, has seen his clinical invention picked up by Hollywood!
PEN-FAST, a validated clinical tool for assessing penicillin allergy risk, was developed primarily by Jason and his team at Austin Health and the University of Melbourne.
Penicillin allergies are the most reported drug reaction in the USA, with up to 10 per cent of people reporting one; however, most people who believe they are allergic are not. PEN-FAST is a simple tool which helps clinicians assess the likelihood of someone having a true penicillin allergy. If it shows negative or low, studies have shown that 95% of patients can tolerate penicillin and are not allergic. This reduces unnecessary allergy labels and improves antibiotic prescribing.
Jason’s invention has been featured in the HBO Max medical drama series The Pitt. What started in Heidelberg is now making prime-time and helping change practice around the globe.
Recovery Under Way
While undertaking rehab at the Royal Talbot in Kew after open heart surgery, Chris Ross (’98) ran into Annette Kendall, wife of the late Nigel Kendall, the School’s second longest serving staff member, Deputy Principal and Life Governor of the School. Both Ross and Annette are recovering well.
Congratulations to the School’s oldest known alumnus, Gunnie Waddell (’37), who celebrated his 106th birthday last November. Gunnie, a former international diplomat, now lives in aged care in Bateman’s Bay, with his daughter Beth living nearby to keep a close eye on him.
While his hearing is not great, Gunnie’s mind is still sharp, and he remains passionately interested in all events taking place at the School.
From Ridgeway Campus to the Beehive State
Congratulations to Zach Veneziano (‘25) who was offered - and accepted - a place at the Utah Prep Academy! The academy is a high-level basketball boarding school designed to prepare elite players for college and professional basketball careers.
A former School Basketball Captain and Firsts player since Year 10, Zach is a poised point guard with a strong feel for the game, whose leadership, work ethic and character have earned him this exceptional opportunity.
Peter Goad (’42) pictured above in his Middle Park garden, was the School’s only other known alumnus centenarian but passed away last November, shortly after celebrating his 101st birthday.
Metallurgist, editor, yachtsman, skier, activist and champion of Save Albert Park, Peter was a man of many talents.
A much loved and devoted husband of Rosemary for 70 years, Peter died peacefully after a very full life.
James Wharton Debuts for Formula 2
The racing career of James Wharton (’24) is speeding up. Starting in mini and cadet karting at age eight, James won eight out of ten races in 2017 to win the Australian Championship. The following year, James and his father moved to Europe to progress his career and at the end of 2020, he was added to the All Road Management team.
Last year, James joined Trident Racing and made his Formula 2 debut in Qatar. He made his return to PREMA Racing for the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship season at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
Meanwhile, 98-year-old Keith Smith (’44) is still living independently with his wife Betty in Bendigo. Keith was apprenticed to distinguished pharmacist Ruby Walker before starting his own business in Camberwell. Keith married Betty in 1956, and their sons Andrew (’76) was School Captain and Alistair (’77) School Vice-Captain in their peer years. Alistair and school friend John Petschack (’77) caught up recently to mark Keith’s most recent birthday.
Photo (L-R) Keith, John, Alistair, Betty
Brisbane Bound
Congratulations to Marlo Graham (’25) who was selected by the Brisbane Lions at the AFLW Draft in December. The Lions selected Marlo at pick 33 to add more depth to their midfield and forward line groups. Playing for Northern Knights in 2025, Marlo had been touted throughout the season as a draft prospect for her high footy smarts, good hands, elite endurance and terrific defensive pressure. Her hard work and determination have certainly paid off and we wish Marlo well in Brisbane.
Skiing in Scandi
Former Australian snow skier Tom Hoogenraad (’16) spent much of the European winter in Scandinavia. Tom was Head Coach of the Australian Junior Ski Team who trained in Sweden in preparation for the FIS Nordic Junior/U23 Cross Country World Ski Championships which took place in Lillehammer Norway in March.
When not on the slopes, Tom works as a podiatrist, and his parents, Andrew and Kate both work at the School.
Top Designs 2026
Freshman Guard
Jesse McIntosh (’19) has had a great first year since moving to the University of South Dakota to play college basketball with the ‘Coyotes’. While one of growth, resilience and finding his place in a completely new environment, Jesse unfortunately fractured his ankle which limited his time on court. However, he has built great friendships, excelled academically and continues to work hard on his recovery and development. We look forward to seeing what next season brings!
Two students from the Class of 2025, Miria Teh (VCE Media) and Marley Cox (Visual Communication Design) had their work selected for Top Designs 2026, one of the most competitive design exhibitions in Victoria.
Miria’s original novel ‘The Toymaker’ and Marley’s surf inspired brand and sustainable dry bag designed for an environmentally conscious client from Ocean Grove, were highly regarded by the judges.
In 2025, over 1,000 applications were submitted statewide, with just 81 works selected. Miria and Marley’s inclusion places them among the very best VCE design students in Victoria.
The Top Designs Exhibition is showing from 11 April - 26 July at Melbourne Museum.
Vale Robert (Bob) Sanderson
Bob Sanderson, one of the School’s longest-standing former staff members, passed away in February at the age of 82. Bob had been a resident at Kew Botanica Care Community.
A staff member at Ridgeway Campus for 37 years from 1969-2005, Bob was a highly respected science teacher and Resident Master at the Boarding House. He was also the Commanding Officer of the School Cadet Unit for many years, and was related to Colonel E G Keogh, the 1st Honorary Colonel of the IGS Cadet Unit in the late 1960’s, and after whom an annual cadet prize is awarded.
Bob had a great love of classical music, particularly JS Bach, and was heavily involved in non-professional theatre, where he directed numerous productions for The Ivanhoe Players including works by Tom Stoppard and Paddy Chayevsky. After retraining in IT, he developed an extraordinary understanding of computers and was instrumental to their introduction throughout the School.
His love of the School was probably best recognized through ‘The Venture Splendid’, a monologue written in 2001 in which Matt McFarlane (’11) voiced the thoughts of the Reverend Sydney Buckley, who, as he returned home from the Great War in 1919, resolved to leave the parish and devote himself to full time education.
A private, enigmatic person with a great sense of the absurd and a brilliant mind, Bob was a wonderful and loyal servant of Ivanhoe Grammar School.
HEARD ANY NEWS?
If you hear of any news about alumni that you would like to share with The Brown and White readers, feel free to email the Development Office on alumni@ivanhoe.com.au
From Ivanhoe to the top of the world
Keith Nyberg (’91) is clearly a serious mountaineer. In April, he will be heading to Nepal to attempt to climb Mount Everest, something he has been aiming to achieve for a long time.
Keith started climbing in 2003, mostly out of curiosity and a love of being in the mountains. In 2013, that slowly grew into a bigger goal when he began the Seven Summits challenge. That is, to climb the highest mountain on each of the seven traditional continents plus Antarctica (Vincon Massif). So far, Keith has summited:
• Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania 5895m (Africa)
• Mount Kosciuszko, 2228m (Australasia)
• Mount Elbrus, Russia, 5642m (Europe)
• Aconcagua, 6961m (South America)
• Denali/Mount McKinley, 6194m (North America)
• Cartensz Pyramid, Indonesia, 4884m (Oceania)
Preparation for climbing Mt Everest has taken Keith years of training, planning, and commitment. It is a timely reminder that while achieving dreams is certainly possible, they mostly happen only with a great deal of hard work, and more often than not, with the assistance of others.
Keith will be taking an Ivanhoe Grammar School flag with him to the summit as a small nod to where his journey began, and the community that helped shape it. All his mountaineering so far has been self-funded to cover the considerable costs, which can exceed $25,000 per climb. For Everest, he has started a GoFundMe to help with the fundraising for this venture.
Completing the Seven Summits would make Keith the first alumnus to complete this list, and the third known to have reached the summit of Mount Everest, after Nick Parr (‘84) and Mark Squirrel OAM (’89)
An industrial designer by background, Keith has over 30 years’ experience leading teams in outdoor expeditions, elite sports and scuba diving. His expeditions have led groups safely
across polar, tropical and remote region. Keith’s other passion is photography where he has developed a side career in underwater photography, and aerial drone photography.
Keith was also an elite sportsman playing lacrosse for many years, which included four years in the USA on a college sports scholarship, playing in Canada and captaining Australia in the Lacrosse World Championships on eight different occasions.
If that isn’t enough, Keith is an avid traveller in his own time, and currently about half-way towards completing his dream of visiting and photographing every country in the world! He also maintains contact with both the School and his colleagues from his peer year whenever his is back home in Melbourne.
Keith’s mountaineering achievements deserve enormous respect and recognition, and we look forward to seeing a photo of the School flag at the summit of Mt Everest later this year!
Class
of 1976 – Ridgeway Campus 50 Year Reunion – Friday 20 February, Buckley Hall
Carl Heath, Peter Corstorphin, Robert Porter, Ross Davey
Jon Chapman, Paul Crowther
Mark Hoysted, Michael Gorton
Drew Riddell, Tony Watts
Craig Walker, Jon Chapman, Ian Bathie, Colin Bates
Craig Walker, Ian Bathie, Mark Lesser
Stephen King, Andrew Woolfe, Craig Millson
Richard Newbery, Craig Millson
Mark van der Eynden, Peter Frost
Mark Hoysted, Michael Gorton, Peter Hannah, Tony Watts
Tony Cooke, Frank English
David Hopper, Colin Bates
Phil Smyth, Stephen King, Peter Corstorphin, Andrew Woolfe, Carl Heath, Craig Walker
Andrew Woolfe, Phil Smyth, Don Dowell, Stephen King, Ian McMenamin, David Hopper
International Reunion Shanghai
Thursday 6 March – Conrad Shanghai
Principal Gerard Foley and Leisl Bruhn (Head of International Students) visited China in March to re-connect with families of alumni, which also offered time to schedule a drinks afternoon for a small group of the School’s former students.
A new year means more reunions! If you are from the Class of 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006, 2016, or 2021 - your reunion will take place this year. See ‘Save The Date’ on Page 11 for your reunion or refer to the OIGA website, Facebook and Instagram for all alumni activities. Invitations to each reunion will be sent out closer to the event. We are looking forward to connecting with many of you throughout the year! Email alumni@ivanhoe.com.au to keep your contact details up to date.
OIGA BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Now in its sixth year, the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Business Directory continues to receive great feedback! Already 38 businesses have signed up to use the OIGA website to reach, connect and support our alumni community.
We are pleased to highlight North Star Finance Solutions, the latest alumni organisation to register with our business directory. More information and registration details can be found at www.oldivanhoe.com/business-directory.
North Star Finance Solutions
Founded by Charlotte Kerr (’10), North Star offers Accounting and Finance expertise.
Charlotte is a is an accomplished finance broker specialising in complex and bespoke lending solutions. With 12 years of experience in business and home lending, Charlotte possesses the comprehensive knowledge required to structure and deliver a variety of tailored finance solutions.
Cedric Chen (’19), Leisl Bruhn, Andy Ma (’19)
(L-R) Harry Zhuang (’19), Regan Li (’20), Shaun Zhang (’18), Eric Ma (’18), Frank Li (’17), Elvis Jiang (’17), Arno Barton (’24), Iffy Siakou (’24), Liesl Bruhn, Gerard Foley
Gerard Foley, Lisa Bo (’20)
Leisl Bruhn, Sync Liu (’19)
The Ego Yah Podcast Commencing in 2025, the Ego Yah podcast continues to grow within our alumni community. Last year, this OIGA initiative released eight episodes featuring in-depth conversations with:
• Lana Murphy (‘10), Channel 9 Journalist
• Adriano Del Monte (’06), International Sports TV Presenter
• Chris Branigan (’97) & Sienna Whiteman (’17), OIG Football Club
• Martin Goh (’08), Marketing Expert
• James Moio (’09) & Andrew Sheehan (’09), Kepple
• Scott Assender (‘90), Welcome To Group
• Lauren Chan (’07) & Jess McCarthy (’12), OIG Water Polo Club
The first episode in 2026 features Alex Vella (‘05), a winemaker and co-founder of the family-owned business Five Vineyard in Mernda, just minutes from Plenty Campus.
Paul and Caroline Vella and their children Alex, Sam and Olivia, moved to their Mernda goat and dairy farm in 1997. They later discovered that their land and soil was perfect for wine growing, so planted chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz and Sangiovese grapes. Now housing a restaurant, cellar door and function spaces, Five Vineyards is a great success story.
The latest episode features James Hogan AO (’74), the former Chief Executive of Etihad Airways, during his recent visit to Melbourne.
A member of the School’s Gallery of Achievement, James is a global veteran of the aviation, travel and hospitality industries with more than four decades of senior executive leadership experience.
James is Chairman of Knighthood Global Limited which he set up to offer business advisory, capital structuring and investment services in Aerospace and Aviation, Travel and Tourism, Hospitality, and Real Estate.
In the Australian 2017 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, James was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, for ‘distinguished service to the aviation transport industry, to the development of tourism and trade linkages between Australia and the Gulf States, and to international airline associations.’ In 2024, he was inducted into the Air Transport World Hall of Fame.
All Ego Yah podcasts are available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing the success of this podcast in 2026.
Old Ivanhoe Law Society (OILS)
The Old Ivanhoe Law Society podcast brings together alumni from every stage of the legal journey to share real stories, hard-won insights and candid reflections on life in the law. From top-tier firm partners to aspiring clerks, each episode captures the wisdom passed from one generation to the next. It is informative, inspiring, and unmistakably authentic.
Produced by Nigel Preston (’72), a total of 22 podcasts have been recorded over the past seven years featuring distinguished alumni on their varying law careers. People such as John Crump (’61), James Parrish (’70) and Daniel Proietto (’96) are just some of those who have shared their legal careers with Nigel.
While no new episodes are planned at this stage, the OILS podcasts are available as an indispensable reference guide. Alumni who are involved in law can join OILS. Visit oldivanhoelaw.com for more information.
The OILS podcasts can be found under The Ego Yah Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
HATCHED & MATCHED
Congratulations to our alumni below who have recently celebrated wonderful personal events.
Angela Kang (’14) married Yang Chen (’15) in February (wedding photos at Buckley Hall!)
Danika Ford (’08 nee Millson) and husband Tom Ford (’08) welcomed daughter Charlie last September (between Harry and Indie).
Chan
and partner
Peta Bounas (’12 nee Ligdopoulos) and husband Jonathan Bounas (’12) welcomed daughter Billie in February
If you have an addition to your family and would like a free OIGA bib for your new arrival, please contact Mirella Busso-Lee at alumni@ivanhoe.com.au
The 2026 OIGA reunions continue to flourish and are a hugely important component of the alumni program. The dates for the year are set out below but are subject to change. Pease refer to the OIGA website, Facebook and Instagram for reunion updates and details of all OIGA activities.
Friday 22 May
Plenty Campus 5 Year Reunion (Class of 2021)
Friday 29 May
Plenty Campus 30 Year Reunion (Class of 1996)
Friday 12 June
Ridgeway Campus 5 Year Reunion (Class of 2021)
Friday 17 July
Ridgeway Campus 10 Year Reunion (Class of 2016)
Friday 31 July
Ridgeway Campus 20 Year Reunion (Class of 2006)
Friday 4 September
Ridgeway Campus 30 Year Reunion (Class of 1996)
Friday 23 October
Plenty Campus 10 Year Reunion (Class of 2016)
Friday 13 November
Ridgway Campus 40 Year Reunion (Class of 1986)
Thursday 26 November
Buckley Boys/Brown-Sligo Era Luncheon
Georgia Harper (’17)
Ayden Robinson welcomed daughter Macey in November 2025.
Jessica Harris (’19) announced her engagement to Chris Neagle in March
Lauren
(’07) announced her engagement to Aaron Sawers in December.
Board of Governors Dinner 2025
The Board of Governors dinner last November acknowledged several retiring and long-standing staff for their years of service to the School. This included Olivia Rothnie who commenced in HR in 1985 and retired after 40 years as one of the longest serving staff in the School’s history.
A highlight of the night was the unveiling of the fifth Ivanhoe Grammar School Principal’s Portrait. Pictured above at the presentation are (L-R) Daniel Proietto, Chair of the Board, Gerard Foley and acclaimed portrait artist Peter Smeeth, FRAS, who was commissioned to undertake the portrait. The original portrait now sits alongside those of Buckley, Brown, Sligo and Fraser in Ivanhoe House, while prints have been placed in Buckley Hall, and in the administration area at Ridgeway Campus and Plenty Campus.
In a further recognition of his support and lead collaboration across independent education in Victoria, Gerard was appointed Chair of the Board of the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria in January.
Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre Design Recognised
Peddle Thorp Architects, who designed the Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre at Plenty Campus, were recognised in the 2025 Australia Good Design Awards for this significant building project.
The Australian Good Design awards are a benchmark for excellence in design and innovation. This award recognised Peddle Thorp’s design for Coonawarra which blends education, sport and community spaces, and reflects the School’s commitment to creating inspiring, future-focused wellbeing and learning environments.
Last November, Socrati Seretis, Principal and Design Lead at Peddle Thorp came to Plenty Campus and presented a certificate recognising the award to Fiona Devlin (Deputy Principal), and Sports Captains Naithan Thomas (L) and Somer McCormack (R).
The School is most grateful for the dedication of the entire design and delivery team at Peddle Thorp and for the partnership that brought this exceptional facility to life.
No Holidays for Cadets
Last December, 570 cadets and 62 staff commenced their 2025 Cadet Bivouac at Puckapunyal, making it the largest ever number of attendees from the School for a cadet camp.
More than 250 recruits were introduced to a range of new skills, while the 2026 Senior Leadership group took command of their first major activity. The camp was a huge success and a great start to an exciting year for the unit, which with over 600 cadets is one of the largest school cadet corps in Australia.
School Captains 2026
The 2026 School Captains Maya Hopper and Kevan Abraham (Plenty Campus), and Elizabeth Tan and Xavier Chy (Ridgeway Campus), were officially inducted during their Oath Signing Ceremony last December, led by Principal Gerad Foley and Heads of Campus. It marks an important milestone in their own personal leadership journeys, and the OIGA wishes them and the newly appointed prefects well in the year ahead.
On an historic note, Maya’s triplet sister Kate and triplet brother Will are also prefects at Plenty Campus. They are the children of Stephen Hopper (’81) and his wife Jodie (nee Poulter, IGGS Class of 1983), who were married in the School Chapel in 1991.
(L-R) Maya Hopper, Kevan Abraham, Elizabeth Tan and Xavier Chy
Family Connection Record!
Family connections throughout the School’s history have been well documented over the decades. However, the familial links to Elizabeth Tan, Ridgeway Campus School Captain, will take some beating.
The daughter of Ben Tan (’99), no less than 11 of Elizabeth’s direct relations are all students at Ridgeway Campus! She has three siblings, Isaac (Year 5); twins Lucas and Alexis (Year 8), as well as first cousins Harry (Year 12), Chelsea (Year 5), Jaqueline (Year 8), Ryan (Year 5), Kate (Year 7) and Sophie (Year 8). Uncles William (‘03) and George (’03) and cousin Victoria (’24) are also all alumni.
Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts
The School is proud to announce that eight of its teachers have been recognised as Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts (MIE Expert).
A MIE Expert is a passionate educator recognized by Microsoft for using their technologies to transform teaching, improve student engagement and drive innovations in the classroom. It is a global recognition for educators who lead the way in transforming learning through technology. Congratulations to (L-R above) Jason Coleman, Andrew Luscombe, Steve Brophy, Talia Ciavarella, Joanna Boer, Richard Fox, Rachelle Crameri and Damien Atkinson-Buck who are not just adopting technology but transforming education for every student.
Captains Assembly 2026
In the traditional start to Term 1, past School Captains were welcomed back to Ridgeway Campus for an assembly and lunch, and to meet the four new school captains. Some 34 past captains and vice-captains were in attendance with Geoff List (‘56) the oldest, followed by Kevin McLean (’60), Geoff Brown (’62) and Bob Stevens (’65)
At the assembly, a Q&A panel featuring alumni captains Camilla Middleton (‘11), Luke Salter (‘01) and Tony Pantano (‘05) presented the 2026 School Captains with insights on study techniques, life after school, career paths and staying connected.
Guests were welcomed to lunch by Principal Gerard Foley and Ridgeway Campus School Captain Elizabeth Tan, followed by an informative address by Jack Pead (’06) about what leadership means today.
Chess Star
Congratulations to Year 11 student Tedric Li on an incredible result at the Australian Chess Championship in January. Tedric finished in 2nd place with an impressive score of 8.5/11, narrowly missing first place, after entering the competition as just the 14th seed. At the prize-giving ceremony, Tedric was also awarded the 2025 Arlauskas Medal, which is the Australian Chess Federation award for Junior Player of the Year, which is a fantastic achievement.
Senior staff apppointments 2026
Kellie Hammond Head of Admissions and Engagement
Kellie brings over a decade of experience in international education and relationship management across Southeast Asia and Australia to the School. She has a proven record of success in enrolments, client engagement and strategic communication, areas that will continue to strengthen the School’s relationships with both current and future families.
Kellie’s experience spans senior leadership roles where she has driven growth, enhanced engagement and shaped innovative strategies that reflect excellence and care. As Head of Admissions and Engagement, Kellie recognises the importance of community in developing the culture of a school, as well as the significance of parental and community involvement in education and character development.
Kirsty Hooper Head of Development
Kirsty recently joined the School as Head of Development. She comes from Melbourne Grammar School, where she was Head of Alumni and Community Relations for five years, and previously held senior alumni and stakeholder roles at the University of Melbourne. With more than 15 years’ experience across engagement, philanthropy, admissions and marketing in education, Kirsty brings a thoughtful, strategic approach to community building. Already a valued member of the Ivanhoe community, with children in Years 7 and 11 and one who completed with the Class of 2025, Kirsty will oversee a comprehensive handover from Geoff Brown (’62) who is transitioning to retirement in June. We also take this opportunity to thank Linda Paltoglou for many years of service to the School community as Development Coordinator, and wish her well in her new role.
SCHOOL SPORTING NEWS
Many sporting achievements were attained late last year and over the summer holidays. We are pleased to summarise some of the great individual and team achievements below.
Swimming Congratulations to Year 11
student
Eli Billman who broke the Victorian Age Record at the Sprint Championships last December in the 50m Butterfly. Eli stopped the clock at an impressive 24.23 seconds which is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to his commitment, discipline and hard work in the pool.
Tennis Year 10 student
Nicholas Mitsinikos performed exceptionally well at the International Tennis Federation Junior International event in Perth late last year. Aged just 15, Nicholas won three qualifying matches and his first-round match before losing in the second round. Nicholas obtained world ranking points and looks to his tennis future with great confidence.
Fencing
Year 8 student
Travis Lin recently competed in the Australian Fencing Federation Youth Circuit and won a bronze medal in the U13 Boys Foil. This is a just reward for the all the work and effort Travis puts into his training and his endeavours to constantly improve, particularly for such a young man.
Basketball
The plaudits continue for Year 12 student Sophie Richardson who, along with her Sapphires teammates, won
their fourth straight title in the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup late last year when they defeated New Zealand 8650 in the final.
The Sapphires will now prepare for FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup in July where Sophie is expected to be one of the team’s standout players.
Athletics
One of the School’s oldest athletics records has finally been broken! In 1998, Stuart Adderley (’01), who is now Deputy Head of Lincoln, set the U/15 1500m school record with a blazing 4:15.00.
Last November, that long-standing mark was broken by rising star Year 9 student Leonardo Donarelli, who clocked an incredible 4:11.99 at the All Schools Victorian Championships.
Pictured above with Stuart, Leonardo is writing a new chapter in the School’s athletics history.
Maryanne Mooney Perpetual Trophy
Pier to Pub Congratulations to Year 12 student Tommy Golding, who placed an outstanding third in the Junior category at the 1.2km Pier to Pub swim in Lorne during the Christmas/New Year school holidays.
Braving windy conditions and lingering bushfire smoke, it was a fantastic experience for Tommy, who proudly competes for @ivanhoeswim.
Swimming
In February, the Ivanhoe Swim team competed at the Victorian Open Championships at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, racing against some of the best athletes in the state, including several Olympians.
Despite being a young and relatively small team, they were placed 6th overall. Racing in such a high pressure environment was a great experience and a valuable opportunity for the team to learn and improve in the lead up to the AGSV Swimming Championships in March.
The School was recently awarded the Maryanne Mooney Perpetual Trophy for Excellence in ‘Career Development Services in an Educational Setting’ for 2025. The award is named in honour of Maryanne Mooney (1958-2014) who was dedicated to improving career education services for young people.
The recognition highlights the School’s VCE and IB programs, and its Year 9 University Campus initiative, Pictured left is Ridgeway Campus School Captains Xavier Chy and Elizabeth Tan with the award.
New Lifetime BenefactorWalter Fred Hemmy
The School was moved and humbled when it was informed late last year that Walter Hemmy (’37) had left a significant bequest from his estate.
Walter was born in Armadale in 1919 and attended the School from 1933-1936, largely funded by a scholarship provided through the founding Headmaster, the Reverend Sydney Buckley.
His wishes were to endow funds to the School to provide scholarships for students and families experiencing financial hardship, which would allow them the opportunity to participate in an Ivanhoe Grammar School education.
The bequest was made with the intention of establishing an endowed fund to provide scholarships for students to gain entry to the School where financial circumstances would otherwise preclude enrolment.
His magnificent gesture is one of the largest bequests ever received by the School. As a mark of respect and in line with Walter’s wishes, the Board of Governors has agreed to establish the Walter Hemmy Scholarship for a Plenty Campus student.
Education and Career
After leaving the School, Walter pursued further studies at the University of Melbourne, graduating in 1939 with a Bachelor of Science, majoring in metallurgy and chemistry.
In 1940, he joined the Munitions Supply Laboratories, part of the Commonwealth Department of Defence, and became one of the pioneers of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in Australia for defence production purposes.
Walter’s extensive experience included using NDT methods to examine welds, castings, pressure vessels and military explosive devices for the Commonwealth of Australia.
His career not only contributed to Australia’s nuclear defence but also involved travel abroad to consult with many international partner countries.
He was a leader in all aspects of NDT in Australia, and served as a lecturer and advisor to both the Australian Government and global partners on radiation safety.
Walter became an NDT Assessor for the National Association of Testing Authorities Australia in 1960 and held similar roles for organisations in New Zealand.
Walter’s dedication to defence was unwavering and he took immense pride in his contributions to the protection of Australia and other nations with whom he collaborated at the highest levels.
Throughout his life, Walter maintained a deep passion for academia, with a particular focus on the sciences.
When he retired to Queensland in 1983, he remained in regular contact with the School through reunions, and like so many alumni from that era, fondly remembered Sydney Buckley and the role he played in shaping his future life.
Legacy
Walter passed away peacefully in Buderim, Queensland in 2014, at the age of 95, after a rich and fulfilling life. He was survived by his only child, Carolyn Hemmy, who passed away in 2024.
Walter firmly believed that the scholarship he received to attend the School was instrumental in shaping his future, particularly his career in defence.
It is not altogether surprising that his extraordinary bequest comes as a result of the opportunity afforded him nearly 100 years ago which played such an important role in his life.
Jaqueline Lane, his niece, spoke affectionately of Walter’s importance to her own upbringing and life, and of the love and support he gave to his wife Peg who predeceased him in 2011, and all his family members.
Peter Rule Sports Scholarship
As advised in The Brown and White Term 3, 2025, the School was the beneficiary of a generous bequest from the Estate of Peter Rule (’65)
Following school, Peter embraced the alumni community through his involvement with the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Football Club and was a Life Member of the OIGA. Additionally, Peter made a significant contribution to athletics coaching at both the school and Ivanhoe Harriers Athletic Club over many years, and during his 37 years coaching at the School, the Athletics Team won 12 Premierships. His enthusiasm and expertise in the jumping events, hurdles and pole vault, enabled many athletes to achieve AGSV, State and National titles.
To honour Peter and fulfill his wishes, the Rule family have established a scholarship at the School to support high achieving athletes in reaching their full potential.
We are pleased to announce that the inaugural recipients of the Peter Rule Sports Scholarship are Year 11 students Ruby Longmuir and Alexander Redlich. Pictured left (L-R) are Gerard Foley, Alex, Ruby and Peter’s cousin Mike Wallis who represented the family, and were joined with Ruby’s and Alex’s parents to celebrate this award. Mike was most impressed with the sporting credentials of the two recipients, who have not only competed at the highest level at school but have represented both Victoria and Australia in their respective sports of Volleyball and Kayaking.
The School looks forward to following the progress of our inaugural Peter Rule Sports Scholarship recipients in the coming years.
Norma Marsh Scholarship
The Norma Marsh Scholarship was established in 2016 by a generous endowment gifted by Randal Marsh (’77) to mark his mother’s 90th birthday and her near 50-year association with the School.
The first recipient of this scholarship was Xara Burge (’22). Xara completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne in 2025, majoring in Media and Communications, and Criminology. After playing netball for Melbourne University Lightning U23 team, Xara will play for Ballarat Football Netball Club in 2026. She works as a part-time lifeguard at the Sports and Aquatic Centre, while her sister Eliza Burge (’25) is an Assistant Sports Coach at Ridgeway Campus.
The second recipient of the Norma Marsh Scholarship, Lily Burchell, completed Year 12 in 2025. In a wonderful connection to Randall’s profession, Lily is now studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne.
An announcement will shortly be made by the School for the third recipient of this prestigious scholarship.
OIGA Centenary Scholarship
As part of the centenary celebrations of the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Association in 2020, the OIGA Centenary Scholarship was launched. This scholarship provides an opportunity for an outstanding young person, who would not otherwise be able to attend our School, to have the benefit of an Ivanhoe education.
The inaugural scholarship holder was Oscar Squirrell (’25), pictured left with Geoff Brown (’62) at the Annual Cadet Dinner held at the MCG last year. Geoff was the School’s first ever CUO and Oscar spoke glowingly about what the scholarship meant to him in allowing him to remain at the School and gaining valuable leadership experience through the cadet program.
Funding for the OIGA Centenary Scholarship is provided by alumni and other donors, as well as direct contributions from the OIGA. The School is shortly to announce the second recipient of this scholarship.
VALE FIDELIS USQUE AD MORTEM
We acknowledge the passing of the following individuals who were part of the Ivanhoe Grammar School family.
John Dawson (’61) Brown Era Gallery of Achievement
Peter Goad (‘42) Buckley Boy
Noel Griffith (‘47) Buckley Boy
Wayne Jenkins (’61) Brown Era
James Parish (’70) Brown Era Gallery of Achievement
