Brown and White

STAYING CONNECTED

The Brown and White Acknowledgements

Copy: Brianna Ablett

Geoff Brown

Mirella Busso-Lee

Linda Paltoglou

Tim Swain

Photos: Josh Boland

Dean Phipps

Please advise us of any change in your personal contact details.

Email alumni@ivanhoe.com.au or contact Linda Paltoglou at Ivanhoe Grammar School PO Box 91, Ivanhoe 3079, Australia Phone (03) 9490 3508.

The Brown and White is a quarterly newsletter for alumni and supporters of Ivanhoe Grammar School.

Cover photo: Locksley House just prior to its opening in June 1924.

Staying connected oldivanhoe.com ivanhoe.com.au linkedin.com/ groups/4828929 facebook.com/ OldIvanhoeGrammarians instagram.com/old ivanhoegrammariansofficial

As the School approaches its midyear break and many alumni are travelling to warmer destinations, it is most pleasing to report that the OIGAs mission to Reach, Connect and Support members of the School community continues to be embraced by alumni from all eras.

Two of the most practical and successful means by which our alumni continue to maintain meaningful relationships, with both the School and past students, are through our reunion program and the OIGA sporting clubs.

Reunion Program

As the photos in each edition of The Brown and White demonstrate, our reunion program continues to be very popular. During Term 2, four events marking 10, 20, 30 and 50 year events have been held. It has been particularly pleasing to see great attendances and willingness from alumni to re-connect with friends and former staff members, and where those events have been held on campus, to savour the school environment itself.

Regardless of the year group, I find these events share a common atmosphere of joy, laughter and familiarity between alumni. It is a reminder of the lifelong connection we have as a community. Furthermore, a significant portion of our reunion program is held at alumni hospitality venues, in what is a deliberate effort to ‘support our own’. I would like to thank those alumni for providing the venues to enable these events to take place.

Sporting Clubs

Highlighting the available connections for both past and present students through the numerous OIGA clubs has also been

a focus, particularly the sporting and social benefits these clubs offer. As students transition out of school and into further study and employment, our sporting clubs offer an environment to remain connected with alumni, build a wider network of friends and enhance both personal and professional development.

Having personally been involved in the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Football Club for 10 years, I can speak first-hand to the strong culture and connection they provide.

Apart from the newly promoted football club, there is the OIG Cricket Club (Premiers 2023/24), OIG Soccer Club, OIG Netball Club, OIG Water Polo Club and the Ivanhoe Harriers Club, established by the Reverend Sydney Buckley in 1914 as a cross-country running club. Our soccer club, for the first time in its history, has fielded a women’s team and we wish them every success in their debut season.

Enrolment Reminders

Future enrolments at the School are now at record levels with great demand from our alumni, which is wonderful. However, it is important to remind those alumni intending to lodge applications for their children that you must firstly be a Life Member of the OIGA, and secondly, that the application must be made before your child reaches five years of age. If unsure of your status, please contact the Alumni Coordinator, Mirella Busso-Lee on (03) 9490 3407.

Finally, the OIGA is always on the lookout for alumni who are prepared to give their time as a member on the OIGA Council. If you are interested and believe you have something to offer, please contact me via email at alumni@ivanhoe. com.au for an initial discussion. I would love to hear from you!

Michael Bacskos (‘09) President

Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Association

When the Prime Minister came to Ivanhoe Grammar School

In 1920, after St James Grammar School changed its name to Ivanhoe Grammar School and moved to what is now Ridgeway Campus, the Reverend Sydney Buckley identified the need for several key buildings for its role as a grand public school for people living north of the Yarra River.

Those plans included the building of a preparatory school, a large classroom block, and a separate boarding house on The Boulevard, together with rowing boats and sheds.

The construction of a new and separate boarding house became the top priority. To be named Locksley House (Robin Hood’s alias in Ivanhoe), its location at the southern end of the School property, slightly removed from the main school, and one of grand proportions, was ideal.

Locksley House was designed by Messrs Hudson and Wardrop, Australian architects who became well known for their designs of chapels, universities, colleges, factories, hotels and public monuments throughout Melbourne. They also obtained distinction as the winner of the architectural competition for the Shrine of Remembrance on St Kilda Road.

The building they designed for the School was at the time undoubtedly one of the finest houses for residential students in Victoria. The cost of construction for Locksley was £11,734, a substantial sum at the time.

Locksley House was officially opened one hundred years ago this month by the Rt Honourable Stanley Bruce, the Prime Minister of Australia. During his opening address on 21 June 1924, Mr Bruce said ‘it was very necessary to build up the character of the young generation, especially of those boys who might have to be the nation’s leaders.’

Locksley was built to accommodate 100 boarders. However, of the 220 students in 1924, only 46 were boarders, down from 53 the year before and against the trend of increasing numbers of day boys.

During its 100-year history, Locksley House has been one of the School’s most versatile buildings. It has been used for boarders, classrooms, music

and drama. During World War 2, students were evacuated to Yea, and Locksley House was used by the Australian Women’s Army Service 2 Signal Training Battalion.

Locksley became the heart of the School until 1955 when junior school students moved into the newly constructed Memorial Junior School (now Buckley House), after which Locksley was converted into classrooms and laboratories.

Boarders returned to live at Locksley from 1964 to 1978. However, its viability and dwindling resident numbers led to the decision to close its function as a school boarding house. From 1977 a separate Middle School was established for Years 7 and 8, and from 2000, the building was then devoted to music and drama.

In 2014, it underwent its most recent reincarnation when it opened its dynamic and dramatic Performing and Visual Arts precinct, ArtsEdge, a unique reinvention of the original 1924 red brick Locksley House with minimal changes to the building’s external fabric.

As well as celebrating the centenary of a stunning heritage building, it is worthwhile reflecting that one day 100 years ago, the highest-ranking officer in Australia opened the School boarding house. It may be somewhat hard to believe now but that is exactly what happened on an extraordinary day for our School and its students. LOCKSLEY HOUSE:

Our alumni reunion program was in full swing during Term 2 with four Ridgeway Campus functions. Our appreciation goes to those past and present staff members who also attended.

Class of 1994 – Ridgeway Campus 30 Year Reunion - Friday 19 April; Buckley Hall

Adam Calderone, Dom Catalano, Steve Verkic

Gavin Mann, David Waugh Daniel Russian

James Christophidis, Michael Concas, Steve Verkic

Brett D’Elton, Peter Cobb, Asad Zafar

Dom Catalano, Nick Pang

James Rodda, Peter Toumbourou, Rohan Sabri

Daniel Russian, James Rodda, Andrew Cust

James Kennedy, Chris Wright

Matthew Little, Marcus Sands, Nick Yannopoulos

Andrew Fox, the late Greig Wanless, Judy Hewett, David Waugh, Tony MacManus

Craig Halley, James Green, Leon Mays, Eamon Leahy

Kaleb Griffiths, Richard Haw, Peter Toumbourou, Tom Howard

Class of 1974 – Ridgeway Campus

50 Year Reunion – Thursday 2 May; Watts

Foyer

Tim Armstrong, Scott Moir

Stephen Cropley, Neil James, Noel Crouch, Peter Pearce, Chris Kandiliotis

Ash Long

Mark Dempsey, Scott Moir, Sandy Pate, Andrew Howarth

Neil James, Peter Cullum

Andrew Howarth, Noel Crouch

Scott Moir, Sandy Pate

James Scott, Mark Connor, Rick Newbery, Sandy Pate, Tim Armstrong

Stephen Cropley, Peter Pearce

Mark Dempsey, Wayne Vanderwert, Peter Cullum

Chris Kandiliotis, Ken Barlow, Mark Connor

Glenn Bear, Ken Barlow, Richard Ballantyne

Ken Lee, Chris Kandiliotis, Alan Bliss

Class of 2004 – Ridgeway Campus

20 Year Reunion - Friday 10 May; Hotel Collingwood

Abdullah Nouh, Rahul Khanna

Jey Nandacumaran, Jin Hwang

Daniel Forte, Troy Rosenlis, Warrick Morton

Mitch Bodycoat, Paul Jackson, Warrick Morton, Andrew Harris, Andrew McKinnar

Sarah Rizzo, Phoebe Sampson

Matt De Remer, Terry Nicola, Alex Bolzan

Eugel Vuong, Stuart Burns, David Manzin, Hamish McGregor

Lauren Miller, Campbell Phillips, Nick Cordner

Michael Catalano, Andrew Kreskas

Matt Alexander, Mitchell Tieman, Paul Jackson

Class of 2014 – Ridgeway Campus

10 Year Reunion – Friday 31 May; Hotel Collingwood

Angela Blatancic, Kate Wishart

Mathew Haggar, Michael Bilos, Nathan Haggar

Daniel McEwen, Matthew Karan

Robin Ng, Dominik Allen, Josh Sutiono, Markus Witt, Michael Masson

Alex Hatzimagas, Grace Pollard, James Larkin

Corey Hammond, Chanelle Warton

Emily Tang, Maggie Cao, Angela Kang

Fede Frew, Grace Cooper, Mairead McNamara, Elena Callcott

Nick Bianchin, Constandelos

Rachael Horsford, Dominik Allen

Michael Bilos, Daniel Sier

Fraser Blampied, Terry Constandelos, Sam Scicluna, Adi Narayana

Lukas Anagnostou, Afnaf Hussain, PJ Gigli

IAN B. N. RUSSELL DFC: OUR FIRST WWII CASUALTY

Ian Bedford Nesbitt Russell (’30) was the first Ivanhoe Grammar School casualty of World War 2. He was also regarded as Australia’s first Air Ace, albeit that he flew for the RAF. An Air Ace is a generally accepted definition for a military aviator credited with shooting down five or more enemy aircraft during aerial combat.

At a time when the School and the country has recently commemorated ANZAC Day and has paid tribute to those who gave their lives in active duties, Ian’s remarkable story makes stirring reading.

School Days

Ian Russell was born in 1911 in South Yarra to father Frank, a journalist at The Herald and mother Phyllis. Frank was also a writer who won a literary prize for his romantic novel ‘The Ashes of Achievement’. He also became a barrister later in life.

Ian was enrolled at Ivanhoe Grammar School in 1924 and placed into Thoresby House. Learning to fly at the age of 15, he was believed to be Melbourne’s youngest aviator at that time.

The Royal Air Force

After his mother’s death in 1930, Ian joined the RAF in London in 1937. In November 1939 he joined No.609 (West Riding) Squadron with the rank of Flying Officer, flying Supermarine Spitfire Mk.1

aircraft from RAF Drem in Scotland. Promotion to Flying Officer followed and in May 1940 he was posted to No. 245 Squadron, also stationed at Drem, flying Hawker Hurricane Mk.1s.

Subsequently posted to No. 607 Squadron at RAF Croydon, ‘Hack’, as he was known amongst his colleagues, flew Hurricanes in combat against the Luftwaffe. On 15 May 1940, whilst flying a Hurricane P2619 AF-D, Hack crash landed whilst on a patrol which came into contact with German Heinkel He111 bombers. His aircraft was abandoned and he returned to 609 Squadron at RAF Northolt later that month ‘on orders from the Air Ministry’.

Dunkirk

Flying Officer Russell was back with the squadron for only ten days before he returned to the air in a Spitfire L1058, on a patrol covering the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk. Codenamed ‘Operation Dynamo’, the miracle of Dunkirk was the repatriation of more than 338,000 Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbours in northern France, between 26 May and 4 June 1940.

Ian’s aircraft never returned to base having disappeared over Dunkirk during combat with German Messerschmitt aircraft. He was posted as ‘missing, presumed killed’ but no trace of the Spitfire or Ian was ever found. His official date of death is 1 June 1940, although most of his family were not aware of his disappearance for some months after this date.

Ian was credited as having shot down 11 enemy aircraft with a further six probable successes. On one particular day in May 1940, he shot down two enemy aircraft, after which he was instrumental in saving the life of another British pilot by guiding a trawler to an aircraft which had crashed into the sea. For this and his heroics in combat, he was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for valour on 14 June 1940.

Ian was actually a flying ace twice over. In addition to being an official Air Ace, he was also a Spitfire Ace with at least five confirmed aircraft destroyed while flying this particular aircraft, an astonishing achievement.

Photo of F/O Ian Russell in the cockpit of his Spitfire on the day of his disappearance

Ian Russell at Drem Airfield, Scotland, May 1940

Runnymede

Runnymede may be best known for its role in history as the site of the sealing of the Magna Carta. But it is also the location of the magnificent Runnymede Memorial which commemorates more than 20,000 service men and women of the Commonwealth air forces who died during operations from bases in the United Kingdom and North and Western Europe, and who have no known grave.

In an extract from the diary of Flight Sergeant ‘Tich’ Cloves from 609 Squadron, he wrote the following words as a tribute to Ian.

Spitfire Ace of World War II, Flying Officer Ian Bedford Nesbitt ‘Hack’ RUSSELL (37869) DFC.

May his legacy, bravery and sacrifice always be remembered and never forgotten.

‘Tally-Ho Sir, Blue Skies & God Speed.’

Postscript: On ANZAC Day 2024, Geoff Brown (‘62), Development Manager, received a text from Anne Wills, the daughter of Ian Russell who passed on her best wishes to the School on this special day. While the School has little information about the family Ian left behind, Anne recently visited Runneymede to commemorate her father’s passing as shown in the above photo.

ANZAC Day 2024

Every year on a school day as close as possible to ANZAC day, the School community gathers to pause, reflect, and give thanks. This year is the 109th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli. For the families and descendants of those who fought and died, the memories of those lost may fade but never disappear.

Services were held at each campus to commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers who fought and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions. As part of the annual commemorations, the Ivanhoe Grammar School’s Cadet Unit paid tribute to the ANZACs through services at the School and also at the Heidelberg RSL

During WWII, the School’s founding Headmaster, The Reverend Sydney Buckley, kept in close contact with his old boys who were on active service. The School particularly remember the 72 alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country on active service both in Australia and overseas, particularly those who died during World War 2.

The scale of the contribution made by our alumni during this period in history is difficult to comprehend. Of the 902 former students who enlisted, the 71 casualties resulting from the conflict was one of the highest of all AGSV schools, and was devastating for one as small as Ivanhoe Grammar was at that time.

HATCHED & MATCHED

Congratulations to all our alumni below who have celebrated major announcements. Weddings!

Lucas Gillard (’97) & Glentin welcomed daughter Harriet in May

Gordon Hope (’02) and wife Maria welcomed daughter Lily in May

If you have an addition to your family and would like a free OIGA bib for your new arrival, please contact our Alumni Coordinator via email at Mirella.Busso-Lee@ivanhoe.com.au

Troy Rosenlis (’04) and wife Christina welcomed daughter Camille last August

Mitch Yeats (’06) and wife Megan welcomed son Billy in March (seen here with big brother Paddy)

SAVE THE DATE 2024

The remaining dates for the 2024 OIGA reunion program are set out below. However, these are subject to change so please refer to the OIGA website, Facebook, and Instagram for details of all alumni activities.

Tuesday 27 August Albury Reunion

Friday 25 October

Plenty Campus 20 Year Reunion, Hotel Collingwood (Class of 2004)

Friday 8 November

Plenty Campus 10 Year Reunion, Hotel Collingwood (Class of 2014)

Wednesday 27 November

Buckley Boys/Brown Era Reunion, Buckley Hall

Friday 29 November

Plenty Campus 5 Year Reunion, Hotel Collingwood (Class of 2019)

Rebecca Russo (’17) married Christian Rischitelli in May

Chelsea Olafsen (‘20) married Nathan Lisle in May

Elyce Cinerari (’12) married Mitchell Lovell in May

Babies!

GREIG ANDREW WANLESS; 1956-2024

The School community has been mourning the tragic loss of Greig Wanless who died in a light plane accident on Saturday 27 April. Greig, 67 and his passenger and friend Kate Callingham were killed when the aircraft crashed at Mt Beauty airfield while trying to land.

Described by Principal Gerard Foley as a ‘fantastic person’, Greig was an outstanding, active member of the Ivanhoe Grammar School community. He was a popular student from the Class of ’74 and returned to the School in 1990 as Woodworks Teacher where he remained until his retirement from fulltime work in 2017.

In his retirement, Greig remained involved with the School’s Cadet Program, its Cambodia service trips and was a regular attendee at school reunions. He was a generous donor to various school projects, supported numerous sustainability programs, and founded an aviation scholarship program for students which fostered the ambitions of many to become pilots. He was an active member of both the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Melbourne Gliding Club.

Greig was a much loved and respected colleague and friend with students and staff members, and will be sadly missed around the School and at school events. Over 500 people attended a memorial service for Greig at Buckley Hall in May. The School’s deepest sympathies are extended to his wife Karen, son Will (’20) and daughters Alannah (’22) and Matilda, a Year 11 student at Plenty Campus.

GEOFFREY THOMAS DAVEY; 1928-2024

One of the most enduring and significant links to the very foundations of Ivanhoe Grammar School has been lost with the passing of Geoff Davey (’45) in May.

Born in 1928, Geoff joined the School as a scholarship recipient from St James in 1939. His maternal grandfather was Christopher Thomas Sutton who was on the School Council for 50 years, a Life Governor and Master of the School Lodge, and died at the age of 100. His youngest son, Edwin Thomas Sutton (1921), was a Day One boy. In 2014, Geoff dedicated a pew in the School Chapel (Chapel of the Holy Trinity) in memory of his grandfather.

Geoff’s late wife Dora, whom he married in 1953, was the daughter of Harold Buckley (1925), the brother of the School’s founder, the Reverend Sydney Buckley.

Despite claiming in his Buckley Boy reminiscences (2008) that he showed no academic brilliance, Geoff, having left school at 16, became a qualified accountant, auditor and secretary by the age of 20. After 10 years as a Chartered Accountant and Management Consultant, he moved into company and industrial finance, and retired in 1997.

With such connections to the School, it was no surprise that sons Allan (’72) and Michael (‘87) were enrolled at the School, while their three daughters, Helen, Jane and Caroline attended Ivanhoe Girls Grammar School. Michael’s daughter Dora is a current Year 11 student at Ridgeway Campus.

Dr Neil Davey (’48) was Geoff’s younger brother who had an outstanding sporting and academic record at the School. The Dr Neil Davey Prize for Economics, endowed in 1981, is still awarded.

Geoff joined the School Council in 1963, was elected treasurer in 1968 and remained on the Board for many years. He was a longstanding Member of the Ivanhoe Grammarians Lodge and was foundation publisher of ‘The ‘Hoe’, the publication which kept old boys posted on association and school developments, and which is now published as The Brown and White.

Throughout his life, Geoff provided significant philanthropic support to the School and numerous building programs.

Despite a year of personal tragedy in 2012, Geoff remained committed and positive, and embraced life, his old school and family in every way.

The School and OIGA passes on its deepest condolences to his children Allan, Michael, Helen and Caroline and their extended families.

Befitting a man of great character, courage and dignity who retained his love of and support to the School throughout his life, Geoff was farewelled at a memorial service at the School Chapel in May.

Ivanarians on the Trail

The last ever Oxfam Trailwalker Melbourne held in March featured four ‘young’ Ivanarians (plus a ring-in from Carey) who completed the 100km, 40-hour trail walk in fine style. Through the Dandenongs and finishing with the iconic 1000 Steps, the event is far more than your average walk in the park! However, as shown below (L-R), Greg Brown (‘77), Dave Dannock (Carey), Peter Fraser (‘77), Jim Finch (‘77) and Jeff Buzza (‘77) all managed to get across the finish line and in doing so, raised $4,000 for Oxfam. A great effort for a very worthwhile cause.

Airspeeder

Blair Harris (’04) has taken his initial interest in multimedia and motion graphics to new levels with Airspeeder, the world’s first flying racing car. Following school, Blair completed a Bachelor of Multimedia (Business Marketing) at Swinburne University, after which he worked with various regional news services, capturing and editing news stories and creating TV commercials.

With the rise in the use of consumer drones, Blair found a new passion that led him to attaining his Remote Pilots Licence and a new role with C3X capturing construction projects which involves flyovers of projects under construction. This led him to his current role at Airspeeder, the world’s first racing car series for hydrogen-electric flying cars where Blair leads a team to capture the racing action from the air. Blair has certainly found his ‘field of dreams’ and we will follow his career with interest.

Century Up!

Congratulations to Lachie Murphy (’16) who celebrated his 100th game with the Adelaide Crows in Round 2 this year. Lachie attended Plenty Campus and after winning the Northern Knights Best and Fairest in 2016, joined Adelaide’s SANFL development squad. In 2018, he made his debut in Round One, the first player to be elevated from the development squad. Following a careerbest season when he finished 6th in the 2023 Malcolm Blight Medal, Lachie has been rewarded with a leadership role with the club and becomes the sixth former student to have played 100+ games in the VFL/AFL.

OIG Football Club’s New Jumpers

After last year’s unprecedented success across all three teams, the players were allowed to retain their jumpers as a small token of appreciation for their hard work and dedication in bringing home the ultimate prize.

This season, the club has launched a brand-new playing jumper. In a move that may have some old timers reaching for the smelling salts, all senior and reserves players had fitting sessions with Star Sub Australia to ensure each jumper was individually tailored!

In addition, the club is thrilled to introduce a special First Nations design for its clash strip as shown above. Designed by Andrew Taylor, a Noonga man and proud member of the OIGFC community, the design pays tribute to the rich history of First Nations people and their connection to the game of Marngrook, as well as our club’s commitment to Reconciliation.

Top Class

Based on their outstanding 2023 Theatre Studies, four students from the School were selected to perform at the 2024 VCE Season of Excellence in April. Tansy Elliott (’23), Jasper Pascoe (’23) and Max Nania (’23) polished up their monologues for appearances in the Top Class Theatre Studies held at the Melbourne Recital Centre, while Ash Syers (’23) was one of the exhibitors in the Top Design category at the Melbourne Museum. To be selected for these annual events was a significant achievement for them individually and an endorsement of the School’s theatre/ arts programs.

Kicking On

The hospitality company Kickon Group, founded by Craig Shearer (’93), was named Hotel Group Operator of the Year at the 2024 AHA (Vic) Awards for Excellence in May. The company operates The Terminus Hotel Fitzroy North, The Continental in Sorrento and Pincho Disco in Collingwood. The group also won Best Pub Restaurant –Metropolitan, as well as Best Presented Beer at The Terminus for the second year in a row! Craig, pictured above centre with his team after receiving the award, is a current parent of two daughters at Ridgeway Campus, and was thrilled that his group was represented over so many categories.

Operatic Master

The accolades for bass-baritone Derek Welton (’98) continue to flow. Following school, Derek studied Arts/Law at the University of Melbourne but after two years, realised Law was not for him. He did, however, finally finish his Bachelor of Arts (double major in Linguistics and German) at the end of 2005 - after seven years!

He started singing with the Australian Boys Choir and in 2004 won the Encouragement Award at the HeraldSun Aria. The following year, Derek won a full scholarship to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and graduated with a Masters in Music (Vocal) and Masters of Performance (Opera), both with distinctions.

Derek has since performed in many of Europe’s great opera houses and established himself as a respected and versatile artist, both on the concert platform and the opera stage. Hailed as possessing a major Wagnerian voice and a repertoire ranging from Bach and Handel to the present day, Derek is a much sought-after recording and concert artist at Opera Houses and companies around the world. His 2024 program includes a return to the Bayreuth Festival (Germany) in July.

Derek is a member of the School’s Gallery of Achievement and remains in regular contact with the Development Office. He is hopeful, among his incredibly busy schedule, to attend one of the reunions on his annual return to Melbourne.

Winners Are Grinners!

The Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Cricket Club enjoyed another successful season when it secured the 23/24 Bob Herman Shield of the North Metro Cricket Association. After being bowled out for only 113 runs on Day One of the Grand Final, the team turned up for Day Two with a really positive attitude. Despite their backs against the wall, the boys turned on a magnificent display of fighting spirit and bowled out Dennis CC for 105 to secure another trophy for the cabinet!

You Are Never Too Old!

Congratulations to our newly crowned World Champion John Allen (’64) who claimed a gold medal in the 2023 World Triathlon Championships Age Group in Pontevedra, Spain last September.

John, who turned 79 in April, also claimed gold at the Victorian State Series event in March and has been nominated as The Victorian Masters Athlete of the Year for 2024. John’s desire to keep training and racing hard is an inspiration to everyone.

Still Connecting

Age may weary them, but their enjoyment of each other’s company does not fade. A group of old boys from the Brown Era of the 1950s and 1960s above after one of their regular evenings of fine food, wine and conversation.

Snippets

Architect Named for Fraser Centre

One of the School’s major construction projects scheduled for 2025 will be the Fraser Senior Years Centre. Wood Marsh Architecture, an award-winning company co-founded by Randal Marsh (’77) has been confirmed as the architect for this dedicated, multi-level facility for Years 10-12. To be named after the School’s fourth Principal, Rod Fraser to acknowledge his outstanding contribution to the School, the facility will be built on the site of the current Benson Gymnasium.

Good Move Sam

With her strong belief in movement being the best medicine for physical and mental health, Samantha Haravitsidis (’18), a qualified physiotherapist, personal trainer and highperformance coach, has started the @goodmovesrunclub for people of all ages and fitness levels. This very popular social running club takes place each Saturday at Heidelberg Park where participants spilt into groups to run, jog or walk for up to an hour. A genuine community activity of good people, good vibes and good movement and it is completely free! Contact Sam via Instagram for more details.

The Big Stage

The traditional ANZAC Day match at the MCG between Essendon and Collingwood featured three alumni on the field. Nik Cox (’19) and Kyle Langford (’14) were in the Bombers side while umpire Andre Gianfagna (’05) officiated at his first ANZAC Day game. We think the tie was a very fitting result!

(L-R), Andy Harris (’59), John Dickman (‘60), David Lester (’59), Lindsay Hay (‘59), Peter Cayley (‘59), Doug Romberg (’59), Graham Norman (‘59), John Duncan (’60).

The Addams Family

The Plenty Campus production of The Addams Family was a wonderful night of theatre. Held in April at the Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, the cast, crew, staff and parents worked tirelessly for months to bring this spooky and entertaining show to life. The production featured outstanding performances from over 100 cast members, impressive sets and catchy musical numbers that had the audiences snapping their fingers! Congratulations to Head of Plenty Theatrical Performance Michelle Denni for her superb direction, and to the cast and crew for a sensational show.

Arts & Culture Tour

It’s a far cry from those halcyon days when school tours involved a trip to Mt Buller or a train ride on the Puffing Billy but this year, staff and students headed to Europe for their Arts & Cultural Tour. It was the trip of a lifetime for many students as they visited Rome, Venice, Florence and Paris gaining great insights into historical European art and culture, while sampling incredible food. A lifetime of memories for the entire group.

Green & Gold Volleyballers

Congratulations to Year 9 students

Benji Jenkins and Ruby Longmuir who proudly donned the Australian green and gold singlets at the Thailand Junior Volleyball Championships in April. Playing in the Under 16 teams, Benji and Ruby were part of the National Performance Program Squads for their age groups. The selection is a testament to their hard work and commitment over the past 12 months.

An Impressive Medal Collection!

Congratulations to Year 8 student Ciara Jeffs who recently competed at the Australian Age Swimming Champs where she won two gold medals, five silver and one bronze. Ciara, who doesn’t turn 14 until September, has also qualified to compete at the Olympic trials in June where she will be one of the youngest competitors, swimming against some of her idols. Ciara trains eight times a week with Yarra Plenty Waves and works incredibly hard to balance her passion for swimming, netball and school, often waking up at 5 am to train. This is an incredible achievement for Ciara and the School community is very proud of her.

Youngest Formula 1 Commentator

Year 10 student Sam Wyatt continued his progress towards becoming a Formula 1 on-air analyst/commentator at the Melbourne Grand Prix in March. Sam has been working toward his dream role since he was 12 and at this year’s Grand Prix was given an official seat in the GPTV commentary box. Now 15, Sam commentated on Practice Session 2 on Friday and was interviewed in the studio on Saturday to set up the day’s action. Sam did such a wonderful job that they have already invited him back as a commentator for next year’s race!

Mentoring Sporting Leaders

Open Firsts coaches recently identified a group of students as potential sporting leaders. These students were invited to a leadership training session in March run by ex-AFL player, Jim Plunkett and ex-netball Diamond, Sharelle MacMahon who both have enormous experience in professional sports leadership.

Through interactive workshops, discussions and activities, the group learned valuable leadership techniques that can be applied both on and off the sporting arena.

The School feels certain that mentoring sporting leaders is a significant step in developing qualities such as teamwork, communication and resilience.

Nationals Bound

Congratulations to Year 10 student Sophie Richardson on her selection to represent Victoria at the Under 16 National Basketball Championships to be held in Perth in July. Outside of school basketball, Sophie plays for Camberwell Dragons and has been identified as a ‘player to watch’ by the Herald Sun.

Igniting Fashion Interest

Over 200 people attended the Year 9 IGNITE Expo at La Trobe University in May. This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for our Year 9 University Campus students to exhibit their work, after a semester of learning about their passions, hobbies and interests.

The innovative IGNITE program inspires students to explore subjects in which they are interested such as animation, fashion, cooking, sports and music. Parents, staff, and La Trobe academics were greatly impressed with the high quality of the exhibits.

Student Grace Gifford (above) was featured in the Herald Sun with her innovative ball gown, made entirely from paper!

Nice One Leonardo

Congratulations to Year 7 student and Ivanhoe Harriers athlete Leonardo Donarelli. Leonardo, representing Victoria, won gold in the Under 14 Men’s 800m and silver in the Under 14 Men’s 1500m at the Australian Athletics championships in Adelaide held in April. An amazing performance from such a young athlete.

AGSV Swimming

The atmosphere in the stands at the AGSV Swimming Championships at MSAC was electric, but it wasn’t quite enough to get both School teams onto the podium. Many swimmers set personal best times in their events and the girls’ team fought for the lead all night with Mentone but finished a gallant second. The boys’ team improved considerably on last year finishing in 4th place and both teams can be pleased with their performances.

Soccer Tour to Japan

Another sporting tour with a difference! The School’s 12-day soccer trip to Japan in April was deemed a great success for both boys’ and girls’ teams getting to play the game that they love in foreign conditions while immersing themselves in the culture of Japan. Time was given to enjoy notable sites and exhibitions, and of course, to visit Harajuku the famous shopping district in Tokyo.

Volleyball Successes

As one of the core AGSV summer sports, Volleyball is becoming increasingly successful for both our boys’ and girls’ School teams. While the boys started their Grand Final against Yarra Valley Grammar well by winning the first set, they eventually succumbed to a 3-1 defeat. The girls’ team had a sensational victory in their Grand Final, winning 3-0 and securing their 3rd AGSV premiership in a row! This marks their fifth premiership in seven years, and the picture above shows just how delighted they were with the result!

Upcoming Victorian Stars

Whether it has been the establishment of the sensational Sports and Aquatic Centre or simply their hard work and dedication, but the list of Victorian representatives across a range of sports is amazing. Here is the current list of students selected for State sports teams in 2024.

Baseball (18 Years old and under) Rhys Southwell (Year 12)

Hockey (15 Years old and underGirls) Molly Noonan (Year 9)

Swimming (13-19 Years old - Girls) Emmerson Hoggan (Year 9)

Tennis (12 Years old and underGirls) Emily Guo (Year 6)

Tennis (12 Years old and underBoys) Kayden Jin (Year 7)

Tennis (18 Years old and underBoys) Baxter Errey (Year 11)

Triathlon (11-12 Years old - Boys) Bowie O’Sullivan (Year 6)

Triathlon (15-16 Years old) Bentley Crisp (Year 10)

Volleyball (15 Years and under) Ediri Ukoko, Ruby Longmuir, Vanessa Chien (all Year 9)

Fidelis Function Luncheon 2024

The Fidelis Society was established in 1988 to recognise and thank those who have made a bequest to the School. Including Ivanhoe Grammar School in your Will represents a unique and special opportunity to support the education of future generations of Ivanarians.

Anyone who indicates plans for a bequest to the School becomes a member of The Fidelis Society. Members maintain a close connection with the School through invitations to special School events and the annual Fidelis Society Luncheon hosted by the Principal.

On 9 May, we were pleased to honour those who have made such a commitment and welcomed two new members, Renn Wortley (’63) and Bryan Dickson (‘67) pictured above left with Principal Gerard Foley, before joining this esteemed group for lunch in School House.

If you would like to consider such a gift and need more information, please contact Geoff Brown (’62), Development Manager on 03 9490 3423 or via email to Geoff.brown@ivanhoe.com.au

School Lifetime Benefactor Remembered

Following the unexpected passing of Harold Mitchell AO AC in February, the School wishes to pass on its condolences to his entire family.

Harold is a Lifetime Benefactor and former grandparent of past Ivanhoe Grammar School students.

Harold was a highly prominent businessman, media buyer, philanthropist and humanitarian. In the Australia Day Honours of 2004, Harold was made an Officer (AO) of the Order of Australia ‘For Service to the Community’. In the Queen’s

Birthday Honours of 2010, he was appointed a Companion (AC) of the Order of Australia, then Australia’s highest civilian honour, primarily for his fundraising and philanthropic contributions.

He created the Harold Mitchell Foundation in 2000 that gave millions in grants to fund health, education and arts projects. He also served on boards for Art Exhibitions Australia, the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, CARE Australia and the National Gallery Australia.

Harold’s two grandsons and two granddaughters attended Ridgeway Campus.

Our First Female Student In honour of her father, First Day Boy Len Allan (1920), Frances (Sue) Stenfors, member

of the Fidelis Society and honorary OIGA Life Member, has left a bequest to the School. Sue passed away last September.

Sue was one of the very few girls to attend Ivanhoe Grammar School prior to our transition to co-education in 1997. Her father, Len, was a Japanese prisoner of war at Changi and to support the Allan family, Sydney Buckley enrolled her at the School. A photo of Sue below shows her with an unknown boy outside the old school hall.

Len Allan was a member of the School Council 1949-1959 and passed away in 1990. His late son Andrew was School Captain in 1954. Sue was a great supporter of the School and The G.L. Allan Prize for Overall Development and Improvement was endowed by Sue in memory of her father and first awarded in 1991 for Year 8 students at Plenty Campus. In addition, funds for flags at Plenty Campus were donated by Sue and her bequest made this a perpetually endowed fund.

Sue had been living in Queensland for many years and regularly attended reunion events held in Brisbane. The School mourns her passing and recognises her generous contribution and support over many decades.

Geoffrey Davey (’45) Buckley Era

Frank Gummow (’48) Buckley Era

Ewen Gurney (’66) Brown Era

John McNamara (’64) Brown Era

Justin McNamara (’90) Sligo Era

David Purcell (‘70) Brown Era

Alan Richardson (’59) Brown Era

Andrew Sloane Ex Head of School & Deputy Principal 20062011

John Stafford (’47) Buckley Era

Jeff Stagg (’63) Brown Era

Sue Stenfors (’45) Buckley Era

Greig Wanless (’74) Brown Era, Ex Staff Member 1990-2024

(L-R) Renn Wortley, Gerard Foley, Bryan Dickson

VALE - We acknowledge the passing of the following individuals who were members of the Ivanhoe Grammar School family. FIDELIS USQUE AD MORTEM