The Brown and White

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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: Nine of the School’s Living Treasures (90+ years) photographed at the Buckley Boys/Brown Era Luncheon in November.

(L-R), Bob Hill (’48), Ken Snodgrass (’49), Keith Smith (’44), Lloyd Holyoak (’50), Herb Freake (’48), Gregor McGregor (’47), Michael Hellstrom (’50), Geoff Swain (’50), John Knorr (‘52), David Freeman (‘51), Barry Stynes (’50).

As always, Term 4 and the final months of the year seem to come and go very quickly. Having recently attended the 2024 Plenty and Ridgeway Valedictory events, top of my thoughts has been what the OIGA and wider alumni community can offer this newest cohort of alumni.

Support to New Alumni

One of the OIGA Committees’ focuses for this year has been on facilitating connections between alumni and wider career development. For our newest alumni, this could take the form of assistance with finding part or full-time employment, future study advice or wider career development through a professionally aligned group such as the Old Ivanhoe Law Society. Routinely, professional connections are made via Mirella Busso-Lee, Alumni Co-ordinator; however, moving forward, how the OIGA can best leverage our network of some 20,000 alumni is in review.

Podcast Development

Another exciting development in the latter part of the year has been the initial setting up of an alumni podcast, to be known as ‘The EgoYah’. This new engagement platform aims to shine a light on the rich tapestry of stories from within our extensive alumni community.

The podcast aims to share experiences, insights and career advice, while also highlighting the diverse paths alumni have taken since their time at the School. By sharing

these stories, the committee hopes to inspire current students, and then connect and support fellow alumni in the future through a sense of community belonging.

In tandem with these efforts, the committee has been investigating the efficacy of establishing a more structured mentorship and networking program. This initiative takes the view that connecting seasoned professionals with recent graduates and younger alumni to provide guidance and foster relationships can significantly impact career trajectories.

In gathering feedback and insights from alumni, the committee is now designing a program that will meet the needs of its diverse members.

Capital Works

Other exciting news is the recent Banyule Council approval for new facilities at Chelsworth Park. Numerous OIGA sporting teams currently call this reserve their home ground including the Football, Soccer and Cricket Clubs, as well as the Ivanhoe Harriers.

Importantly, these new facilities will support the development of women’s teams as well as better engagement with the wider community. In time, I look forward to when these spaces are available for community use as well as for our sporting clubs.

Finally, I’d like to thank the School’s Development Team, Geoff Brown, Mirella Busso-Lee, Linda Paltoglou, Tim Swain and Brianna Ablett who deliver the mainstay of the alumni programs. This includes the considerable effort behind our reunion event program, The Brown & White publication, the School Archives and numerous other activities.

I wish all alumni a safe and enjoyable Christmas, and a healthy and successful 2025.

Michael Bacskos (‘09) President

Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Association

THE IVANARIAN: THE SCHOOL’S HISTORICAL YEARBOOK 1920-2024

Since its foundation in 1915, Ivanhoe Grammar School has published a comprehensive range of publications. These have been for students, staff, parents and alumni which have recorded the School’s history, events and people for over 100 years.

Those who have passed through the School gates, primarily at Ridgeway Campus, would be familiar with The Spectator (1948-99), The Hoe (19552001), Ivanhoe News (1996-2018) and The Ridgeway (1965-95) among others. While some of these have run their course, one stands apart and continues to be an important document in chronicling the School’s history.

That is, of course, The Ivanarian. As the 2024 edition is shortly to be released, it is an opportune time to see how this annual almanac has changed over the past century.

1920: 16 Pages

In early 1920, St James Grammar School moved from its site in Upper Heidelberg Road to The Ridgeway and became Ivanhoe Grammar School,

which was associated with the local district and reflected the large increase in enrolments. At the start of that year, it had 76 students, and by August, enrolments had reached 87, of whom 22 were boarders. There were around 15 teaching and support staff, with fees for senior boys at £5.5s per term.

The Ivanarian was first published in August 1920 at the end of Term 2. It was not issued annually; instead from 1920 -1948, it was released at the end of each term.

One of the new staff appointments that year was Albert Mehegan who became the School’s Sportsmaster and the first editor of The Ivanarian. Known as ‘Jerry’ to the boys, his portly figure was put to good use directing the mowing of cricket pitches as much as to his editing capabilities.

The initial 16-page Ivanarian included a snapshot of School activities. It might seem quaint today but visits to the Aquarium (‘the performance of the seals created a lot of excitement for the boys’), House Notes, Sports results, School Visits and the Tuck Shop were

interspersed with weightier stories about the formation of the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Association and the district of Ivanhoe and Heidelberg.

2023:

273 pages

Befitting a school of over 950 academic, administrative and support staff, 2,500 students and four campuses, last year’s Ivanarian contained 273 pages. The breadth of academic learning, student activities, community events, global initiatives, co-curricular activities, sporting programs and support groups almost defies belief.

While it may not delve into the minutiae of the 1920s editions, the current Ivanarian stands as testimony to the principles expounded by Sydney Buckley over a century ago. Of service, encouragement, character and hard work. The Ivanarian remains a vital record of the School’s achievements and aspirations, and it is hoped that generations of its readers will continue to value its words and images for the next 100 years.

Our 2024 alumni reunion program finished the year with four events during Term 4. Our appreciation goes to those past and present staff members who attended these reunions.

Class of 2004 – Plenty Campus

20 Year Reunion - Friday 25 October; Hotel Collingwood

Brian O’Donoghue, Craig Caracella
Warren Thomas, Selina Parry, Geoff Place
Chris McFarlane, Steph Machar, Nick Stecher
Tara McKeon, Steph Machar, Brian O’Donoghue, Craig Caracella
Erin Raghavan, Lauren Tan
Tara McKeon, Steph Machar
James Starbuck, Jake Dempsey, Claire Azzopardi
Matthew Farmakis, Dan Brunton, Patrick Holcombe, Erin Raghavan
Warren Thomas, Matthew Farmakis
Chris McFarlane, Beth Caple

Class of 2014 – Plenty Campus

10 Year Reunion – Friday 8 November; Hotel Collingwood

David Clapton, Tyson Deane
James Chappel, Graham White
Craig Caracella, Emad Khraim,
Bailey Jordan, Lawrence Dalton, Tom Burns, Callum Jenkins, Craig Caracella
Rebecca Angelkoska, Liam Johns, Shannon Christou
Payel Chakraborty, Shannon Christou, Nyree Murdolo
Matthew O’Sullivan, David Clapton, Nicholas Miles
Monique Op De Coul, Payel Chakraborty,
Liam Johns, Monique Op De Coul, Matt Cormack
Payel Chakraborty, Nyree Murdolo, Jessica Tatarskyj
Callum Jenkins, Stuart Dower
Tom Burns, Matt Pyers, Bailey Jordan
Callum Jefferies, Lawrence Dalton, Angelo Ratskos

Buckley Boys/Brown Era Lunch

Tuesday 26 November, Buckley Hall

President of the OIGA Michael Bacskos (‘09) and Principal Gerard Foley hosted a passionate group of 95 alumni and partners for the annual Buckley Boys/ Brown Era luncheon.

Following the traditional service at the School Chapel, the luncheon commenced with a performance by the School’s stage band. Principal Foley then brought the guests up to date

on various school activities including capital projects, alumni news, sporting recognition of past and present students, and recent inductees into the School’s Gallery of Achievement.

Plaques to recognise the School’s Living Treasures (90 years) were presented to John Knorr (‘52) and David Freeman (‘51). Peter Goad (’42) who recently turned 100 and whose brother

John Goad (’41) was one of the School’s fallen, was unable to attend. Life Membership (80 years) was presented to Sandy Murray (’63) while others in this group including Ian Watson (’61), Godfrey Stevens (’62), Brian de Boos (‘62), Byron Sullivan (’62), Rob Monro (’61) and Steve Sayer (’62) were unfortunately unable to attend.

David Freeman (‘51), John Knorr (‘52)
Peter Williams (’56), Ken Emery (’59), Ken Downie (’60)
Rod Chappel (’63), Phil Rayment (’63), Graham Forbes (’63)
Frank English, Renn Wortley (’63), Phil Wadeson (’72)
Bob Cochrane (’61), Geoff Brown (’62), Sandy Murray (’63), David Freeman (’51), John Knorr (’52)
Lawrence Tutton (’57), Geoff List (’57), Michael Roth (’57)
Ken Snodgrass (’49), Herb Freake (’48), Michael Hellstrom (’50), Barry Stynes (’50)
Andrew Smith (’76), Keith Smith (’44), Alistair Smith (’77)
Ken Emery (’59), John Duncan (’60)
John Duncan (’60), David Lester (’59), John Dickman (’60), Peter Cayley (’59)
John Dickman (60), Graham Norman (’59)
Greg Bennett (’66), Ian Scott (’70), John Holden (’69), Ian Bennett (’69)
John Holden (’69), Ian Bennett (’69), Mike Smith (’69)
Wayne Motton (’77), Charlie Freedman (’70)

Class of 2019 – Plenty Campus

5 Year Reunion - Friday 29 November, Hotel Collingwood

Cooper Simmons, Piravien Gnanakanthan
Piravien Gnanakanthan, Aaron Cowell
Nicholas Goldie, Heath Bullen
Griffin Zou, Ed Darby, Stefan Fazzino, Willam Chen, Nikhil Kumar
Graeme White, Anastasia Fiume, Mirella Busso-Lee
Teiana McLean, Mia Hammond, Ed Darby
Pauline Swain, Ben Bozinovski, Anastasia Fiume
Liam Parker, Tom McLeod, Ed Darby
Tayla Vanderwert, Heath Bullen, Narelle McFadden, Lauren Powell
Katherine Drummond, Alex Kondos, Griffin Zou, Tahlia Giaprakis
Dinuk Epa, Matt Volpe
Craig Caracella, Dan Brown, Lawrence Dalton
Frank Ren, Conroy Burton, Stefan Fazzino

HATCHED & MATCHED

Congratulations to our alumni below who have recently celebrated wonderful personal events. Weddings!

Business Directory

The Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Business Directory is now in its third year and continues to receive great feedback! We have already signed up 37 businesses which are using the OIGA website to reach, connect and support our alumni community. We are pleased to highlight the alumni organisations below which have registered with our business directory. More information and registration details about each of them can be found at www.oldivanhoe.com.business-directory.

Alex Hondromatidis (’10) married Hayley in September
Ebony Fox (’13) to Scott Monssen
Michael Harper (’11) married Danni in October
Angela Kang (‘14) to Yang Chen (’15)
Lana Murphy (’10) married Nick Riddle (’10) in November
Rachel Johnson (’13) married Max Cornford (’13) in November

New Arrivals!

Alice Linossier (Stooke ‘08) and husband Dom welcomed son Henri in September

Roxanne (Kalivas ’10) and Brenton Aisbett (’10) welcomed son Anthony in October

Sam Neesham (’13) and Alex Gibson (’12) welcomed son Theodore in July

Lauren Burge (’09) and partner Sean Galbraith welcomed daughter Harper in September

John Clayton (’02) and wife Emily welcomed daughter Harriet in October

Amelia Ghiotti (Kerr ‘10) and husband Jack welcomed son Henry in August

Andrew Bransgrove (’09) and wife Abbie welcomed son Henry in September

Kyle Langford (’14) and fiance LuLu Scott-Young welcomed daughter Bonnie-Marie in November

The 2025 OIGA reunion program is even larger than 2024! The dates are set out below but are subject to change, so please refer to the OIGA website, Facebook and Instagram for reunion updates and details of all OIGA activities.

Saturday 11 January London Reunion

Friday 14 February

Ridgeway Campus 40 Year Reunion (Class of 1985)

Friday 7 March

Sydney Drinks

Friday 9 May

Ridgeway Campus 30 Year Reunion (Class of 1995)

Friday 23 May

Ridgeway Campus 20 Year Reunion (Class of 2005)

Friday 13 June

Ridgeway Campus 5 Year Reunion (Class of 2020)

Friday 20 June

Ridgeway Campus 10 Year Reunion (Class of 2015)

Friday 25 July

Ridgeway Campus 50 Year Reunion (Class of 1975)

Friday 29 August

Plenty Campus 30 Year Reunion (Class of 1995)

Friday 24 October

Plenty Campus 20 Year Reunion (Class of 2005)

Friday 7 November

Plenty Campus 10 Year Reunion (Class of 2015)

Friday 21 November

Plenty Campus 5 Year Reunion (Class of 2020)

Tuesday 25 November

Buckley Boys/Brown Era Reunion

HAVE YOU HEARD?

Professor Stephen Harrap Honoured

Professor Stephen Harrap (’72), a member of our Gallery of Achievement, was recently honoured with the prestigious Franz Volhard Lectureship and Award for Outstanding Research by the International Society of Hypertension in Cartagena, Colombia for his global contribution to hypertension research. Stephen has enjoyed a highly distinguished medical research career spanning four decades, focusing particularly on cardiovascular conditions. The citation recognised him as ‘a pioneer in the field of hypertension genetics and one of the few people in the world whose work has spanned the spectrum of both experimental and clinical genetics.’

It is only the third time an Australian has been awarded this honour since it was first given 50 years ago.

Sam Hopper SC

The legal career of property and insolvency lawyer Sam Hopper (‘93) reached new heights in August when he was appointed Senior Counsel. A limited number of senior barristers receive ‘silk’ - becoming King’s Counsel or Senior Counsel - as a mark of outstanding ability.

Sam studied law at Monash University and has been at the Victorian Bar for 20 years where he is regarded as one of the bar’s leading leasing and property lawyers.

With wife Hannah, Sam has three children: Ollie, Harriet and Billie. Sam is also a retired amateur boxer and Mixed Martial Arts fighter who now trains Brazilian jiu jitsu with his oldest child Ollie.

He is possibly also the only practicing barrister who has fought in a cage!

Views from the top

He may no longer be running airlines in the United Arab Emirates or the Middle East, but James Hogan AO (’75) remains in demand as an observer of aviation trends. While in Melbourne in August, the Australian Business Review conducted a wide-ranging interview with James, focusing on his tenure at Etihad Airways where he was the CEO for 11 years. After stepping down in 2017, James became the founder and chairman of Knighthood Capital, based in Switzerland, which provides business advisory and capital-structuring services in aerospace, aviation, travel, tourism and hospitality. James was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2017 for distinguished service to the aviation and transport industries. He tries to get back to Australia several times a year, hopefully to see his beloved Bombers, where his late brother Ken Hogan (’70) played for several years.

Interior Designer Extraordinaire

The reputation of internationally renowned interior architect Nic Graham (’84) continues to grow. His latest work for QT Singapore was featured in Vogue Singapore in September and is now regarded as that city’s swankest hotel.

Nic completed a Bachelor of Design at RMIT University and commenced his career with Inarc and Carr Design Group in Melbourne, a company renowned for being at the forefront of interior design and architecture. He founded his own Sydney interior design studio in 1999 and since completion of the W Hotel in Hong Kong in 2008, has been in great demand for design savvy hotel upgrades.

Nic has worked extensively with QT Hotels Australia and New Zealand, and W Hotels in Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane. His company has won countless awards and also completed numerous high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects.

Despite the demands on his time, Nic finds happiness in family, the smell of freshly ground coffee, good food and great friends. We will no doubt hear of more accolades for Nic for many future projects.

Boundary Ump Calls Time

After 303 games, Michael Saunders (’03) retired as an AFL boundary umpire after the Round 24 match in Sydney. He is now part of an elite group of just 20 AFL boundary umpires who have officiated in 300+ games.

Commencing his umpiring career in the VAFA in 2004, Michael relocated to Sydney for work and was promoted to the AFL in 2009 where he forged a 16-year career, umpiring 18 finals and the 2013 AFL Grand Final. Michael is the AFL games record holder for NSW, the first NSW Boundary Umpire to be appointed to an AFL Grand Final, and was awarded the AFL Umpires Association (AFLUA) Life Membership in 2018. Umpiring has benefitted from Saunder’s leadership skills through his role as AFLUA Vice President, and his mentorship and coaching in NSW. Michael is pictured above on the day of his retirement with daughters Maddie and Paige.

Son Of Inaugural Asian Student Visits School

A poignant visit to the School by the son of one our first international students took place in August.

In 1941, Kai Wong Cheong (’42) (far right in top photo), his brother Kai Swee and four other Malaysian students are believed to be the School’s first Asian students.

Ian Cheong, the son of Kai Wong, has been tracing his late father’s life which included his two years here, 1941 and Yea in 1942. Geoff Brown (’62) (pictured below right) took Ian, his wife (Keat Bin) and daughter (Huey Lin) on an extensive tour of the School for which the family was very appreciative.

Grand Designs Fish Creek

As anyone who has built a house from scratch knows, it can be a project full of challenges, obstacles stress and financial concerns. When a hugely ambitious house is conceived and constructed on national television, all those issues become magnified.

But that was the situation facing Ross Elliott (’82) and wife Cathy when they featured in Episode 2 of the 2024 season of Grand Designs Australia, pictured above with host Anthony Burke.

Ross is no stranger to challenges having founded Snowgum Australia in 1986. But seeking a country retreat for their family, Ross and Cathy built a cuttingedge straw home at Fish Creek, a small dairy farming community in Gippsland, a region prone to high winds and bushfires. Ross took on much of the construction work himself, while other family members helped with the interior design and outside landscaping. Interested alumni can watch the program on ABC i-view.

Medical Students 1968

Emeritus Professor Richard Allen (’68), a member of the School’s Gallery of Achievement for his pioneering work on renal transplant programs and a regular attendee at Sydney reunions, sent an apology to Geoff Brown (’62) advising that ill-health prevented him from flying to attend the 2024 Buckley Boys/Brown Era Luncheon.

Fortunately, he was recently able to drive to Melbourne to attend the 50-year University of Melbourne Medical School reunion, where five attendees were his classmates from 1968!

Pictured above (L-R) is David North, Kenneth Dickinson, Chris Wriedt, Richard Allen and Robert Lees. We hope to see Richard and his fellow medical alumni being able to attend one of the 2025 reunions.

From Soul to R&B

The profile of Blasko Taleski (’07), better known as soul singer ‘Blush’ko’, continues to grow following the release of his single ‘Spirtual’ in August, the second single off his new album ‘Floral Surfboard’ that was also recently released.

Known for his smooth fusion of R&B, soul and electronic music, Blush’ko has built a dedicated following through captivating performances and collaborations. Still based in Melbourne, he credits getting into music to Matt Foudoulis (‘07) who asked him to accompany him in the IGS More than Words Concert in 2007. Until then he had not sung publicly!

Snippets

Sophie Re-signs

Congratulations to Sophie Reid (’15) who has signed a twoyear deal with the Melbourne Stars. Playing as a left-handed batter and wicketkeeper, Sophie has impressed at both WBBL and State level after receiving her first full Victorian contract ahead of the 2022-23 season. She has now played 23 matches for the Stars and became their first-choice keeper halfway through the current WBBL season.

Another Footy Premiership!

The OIGFC Thirds have followed up their 2024 triumph with another premiership in 2024. In a close battle against Old Xaverians, Old Ivanhoe was down at three quarter time but came through with a soaring finish to take the flag. In the other competitions, the OIGFC Seconds went down to De La Salle in the Preliminary Final, while the OIGFC Firsts finished 5th in B Division, a great result since their promotion in 2023.

A Great Result –To be Sure!

No doubt he was glad when it was all over, but Michael Golden (’04) was thrilled to complete the London Life Dublin Marathon in October along

HEARD ANY NEWS?

with 22,500 other athletes. Michael finished in 7,824 place with a time of 3 hours, 59 minutes. After completing a Science/Commerce degree at the University of Melbourne, Michael moved to Dublin in 2023 and is now working at I-Form, a Research Centre for Advanced Manufacturing.

Motorsport

Bachelor

Despite leaving school over two decades ago and now living interstate, Jake Dempsey (’04) had no intention of missing the Plenty Campus 20 Year Reunion in October. Following school, Jake graduated from the Nascar Technical Institute (USA) in Advanced Motorsport, and now has 17 years of experience in the motorsport and automotive industries, and currently works for the Dick Johnson V8 Racing Team in Queensland. Along the way, Jake was a Finalist in Cleo Magazine Bachelor of the Year 2013!

Dystopian Medicine

Three former Plenty Campus students Frank Bevacqua (’21), Kiaara Taia (’22) and Avriel Das (’23) are among the contributors to a new publication, The Oris Magazine, which is written exclusively by medical students. Kiaara is the Chief Editor and all three are currently studying medicine at Monash University. The first edition titled Dystopian Medicine was released in September, and this quarterly publication will explore modern medical issues, and advocate for change where necessary. For more information on The Oris, visit: www.theoris.org/magazine

Flying from the Front

After more than a decade working in the corporate world, former prefect and IB student Giulia

Belleflamme (Mastroianni ’07) is now Co-CEO at Flying Fox, a notfor-profit organisation that provides social opportunities to people with a disability.

After graduating from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Commerce, Guilia worked at LEK Consulting and BUPA before taking up her role at Flying Fox, which is taking important steps to address issues of social isolation among young adults.

Celebrating Gunnie Waddell!

While age may have wearied him, Gunnie Waddell (’37), the School’s oldest alumni, remains in amazing shape, both mentally and physically.

To mark his 105th birthday on 13 November, Principal Gerard Foley and Development Manager Geoff Brown (’62) travelled to Batemans Bay to take Gunnie and daughter Beth out to lunch. Seated between Geoff and Gerard above, Gunnie still looks great. A genuine day of celebration and reflection on a wonderful and still unfinished life!

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

Art & Design Exhibitions

The Term 4 exhibitions were fantastic celebrations of the extraordinary talent of secondary students at all year levels, across both Ridgeway and Plenty Campuses. Family, friends, and the community gathered to admire the creative accomplishments of the Class of 2024 in disciplines like Art Making, IB Visual Arts, Media, Product Design, and Visual Communication.

The quality of exhibits in terms of imagination, ingenuity and flair impressed both special guests which included Tim Sligo and Dr Evelyn Tsitas from Heide Museum, while artist Jonathan Gemmell opened the Plenty Campus exhibition.

The prestigious Randal Marsh and OIGA awards went to the following students.

Plenty Campus

Randal Marsh Art and Design Award: 1st Prize: Tessa Moad; 2nd Prize: Elora Twyford

Randal Marsh Acquisition Award: Keysha Sorraghan

OIGA Encouragement Award: Ava Sheffield

OIGA Media Award: Elora Twyford

Ridgeway Campus

Randal Marsh Art & Design Award: Joint winners Maggie Fu, Tyler Land & Charlotte Turner, Randal Marsh Acquisition Award: Ashlyn Taylor

OIGA Encouragement Award: Lana Saltalamacchia

OIGA Media Award: Charlie Woodhouse

Congratulations to all students for their wonderful contributions to this year’s exhibitions.

Innovative Educator Experts

The School has announced that four Ridgeway Campus staff members, (pictured above L-R), Jason Coleman (e-sport Coordinator), Rachelle Maynard (Head of Pedagogy – Science and Technology), Andrew Luscombe (Head of Pedagogy –Science and Technology) and Steve Brophy (Director of Digital Transformation), were recognised as Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts (MIE Experts) for the 2024-25 academic year.

This prestigious designation is awarded to visionary educators and underscores their commitment to excellence and innovation in education. We look forward to the positive changes Jason, Rachelle, Andrew and Steve will bring to the School’s educational community.

Performing ArtsShakedown Dance Concert

The 2024 Shakedown Concert, which brings students and staff together to celebrate their passion for dance while raising funds for the Beyond Blue Foundation, was a huge success.

Shakedown started at Plenty Campus in 2019. Held annually, the concert features performances ranging from contemporary dance and hip-hop to lyrical and traditional dances. Each year, the event showcases the talents of students, staff and alumni. The concert is known for its innovative and captivating choreography, engaging music and an unforgettable experience. It also offers a wonderful opportunity for audiences to experience the magic of live performance and the joy of dance.

The work undertaken by Michael Callegari for his dedication and time in coordinating this event is greatly appreciated.

International Students Luncheon

Held on the morning of The Ridgeway Campus Valedictory Dinner, the OIGA hosted the School’s annual international students luncheon with their parents and host families.

Pictured above with Leisl Bruhn (Dean of International Students - center), Gerard Foley and Angela di Ciocco (Deputy Head of Campus – far right), these young people have demonstrated enormous character to relocate to Melbourne and undertake studies at a totally new school. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to personally wish them well in their upcoming exams and welcome them to the alumni community.

Ava Sheffield and Elora Twyford Charlie Woodhouse and Geoff Brown

SPORTING NEWS

Football

Congratulations to the School’s AFLW team which pulled off a remarkable Grand Final victory in the Herald Sun Shield at Skinner Reserve in September. While Our Lady of Sion was the pre-match favourite, the one-sided affair emphatically confirmed the School as having the best AGSV Girls Football team in 2024.. The final score was IGS 12.7 (79) to OLOS 0.0.00.

Hockey

Congratulations to Year 9 student Molly Noonan who not only represented Victoria in the 15 & Under Team at the School Sport Australia hockey tournament on the Gold Coast in July but was also chosen in the All-Australian team. Molly was co-captain of the Victorian team and was recently selected in the Victorian U16 Indoor State Team. Molly is pictured above proudly showing her All-Australian certificate.

Athletics

The running career of Leonardo Donarelli (Year 7) shows no sign of slowing down!

After his success

at the U14 Australian Athletics Championship in April, Leonardo shone at the Victorian State All Schools Championship in October. Proudly representing the School, Leonardo won gold medals in U14 Boys 800m and 1500m events and has enjoyed a wonderful year of success both on the track and in cross country events.

Touch Football

Well done to Year 9 University Campus students

Bridget Sherry (left) and Charlotte Hooker who represented the Under 16 Victoria Storm team at the 2024 DoorDash National Youth Championships in October.

This event is Australia’s premier youth touch football event contested by the nation’s best young players across a unique mix of school, regional, and state representative teams. The girls represented their School and State superbly throughout the competition.

UNIVERSITY CAMPUS NEWS

Global Health Stars

Congratulations to a team of four Year 9 University Campus students who won the University of Melbourne’s Global Health Youth Connect (GHYC) Case Competition in October. Looking at Type 2 diabetes among rural, low-income, and Indigenous communities, the team’s solution was a genetic screening program designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing

Gymnastics

At the 2024 Aeroschools National Championships in October 2024 in Queensland, the School finished in 2nd place, its best ever result!

AeroSchools is an activity program designed to introduce school-aged children to Aerobic and AeroDance routines. It is growing in popularity each year and now has 60 students from Years 7-12 at Ridgeway Campus. Earlier this year, the School won the Victorian State Championships for the first time in the school’s history.

Basketball

Following her selection for Victoria at the Under 16 National Basketball Championships in July, Sophie Richardson (Year 10) was subsequently chosen for The Sapphires, the Australian Women’s team to play in the FIBA Under 15 Oceania Cup in November. The tournament featured eight pacific region countries including Guam, Samoa, Cook Islands, New Caledonia, Fiji, New Zealand and Tonga. The Australian team won the tournament with a commanding victory over New Zealand, with Sophie, daughter of Mark Richardson (‘90), playing a key role in the team’s success.

healthcare landscape, and was presented to a panel of doctors and medical students.

Global Health Youth Connect is a youthled non-profit organisation that aims to educate youth on global health challenges and empower them to grow as global citizens and leaders. Michael, Meenal, Riley and Maddie pictured left won $100 each and a volunteering experience with Global Health Youth Connect.

(L-R) Michael Reeves, Meenal Babbar, Riley Tyebji, Maddie Lim

Future Problem Solving

Another team of University Campus Year 9 students have shown their exceptional capabilities by coming third in the national final of the Future Problem Solving Program Australia (fpsp.org. au) competition. This means they have qualified to attend the International Conference next June at Indiana University! The FPS is an international educational program for students of all

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Fraser Centre –Ridgeway Campus

As previously advised, a Senior Years (Yrs 10-12) Centre is the next major construction project at Ridgeway Campus.

The Fraser Centre will acknowledge the outstanding contribution by former Principal Rod Fraser, and will be built where the current Benson Gymnasium is located.

Catering for the needs of the senior students, the building will comprise classrooms, science laboratories, teaching spaces, lecture theatre and staff office space. Changeroom

Ivanhoe Dance Inaugural Concert

The Ivanhoe Dance First Annual Concert was held at Buckley Hall in November. This innovative initiative was introduced in 2024 and is a fun dance environment for students and the general public of all ages who are interested in learning to dance. The concert featured 70 students from the School ranging from 3-12 years of age who performed a range of styles including ballet, jazz, acro, lyrical, hip hop and Tiny Tots. Further information about Ivanhoe Dance can be made to enquiries@ivanhoedance.com.au.

facilities and a rooftop café for students and staff will also be provided.

It is envisaged that construction of the building will be completed for the start of the 2028 school year. The architect’s impression of the building is shown to the left.

Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre – Plenty Campus

The opening of the aquatic and wellness centre at Plenty Campus is scheduled to take place early next year. To be known as the Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre, it

Sibling Rivalry

There was a healthy dose of sibling rivalry when our Year 12 students, along with another 45,750 Victorian students, sat the marathon Year 12 VCE English exam in October. Among those taking the first big test of the VCE exam season at the School were six sets of twins, all at Ridgeway Campus! What made this group even more uncommon is that they are all fraternal and of both sexes.

ages, focusing on the development of critical, creative and futuristic thinking skills. Developed in 1974, it is estimated that more than 250,000 young people internationally participate each year in the program. This is an extraordinary achievement for these students in their first year of the competition to be invited to appear at the Australian final, let alone qualify for the international conference.

includes a 25-meter pool, a strength and conditioning gymnasium, changerooms and facilities, and classrooms designed for our Physical Education and Health and Human Development classes.

Coonawarra Willam means ‘Home of the Swan’ in the Woi-wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people. The name for our aquatic centre was provided by Wurundjeri Elder and holder of knowledge, Aunty Zeta Thomson. These new facilities will greatly enhance the wellbeing of our students and staff, while also providing valuable resources for Ivanhoe Edge, our unique co-curricular extension program. Families from the area who join Ivanhoe Swim will also be able to use the centre.

The centre is being constructed with sustainability in mind, with a solar energy system across the large roof span to generate its own power, as well as rainwater collection and recycling to refill the pool when needed.

The Age visited the School to photograph this unique group, but unfortunately, one set was sitting practice exams at the time. The siblings agreed that while there was a bit of friendly competition between each pair, they were all keen to see their sibling do well. It would not be surprising to see The Age make another visit in 2025 when seven sets of twins from the School will be sitting the VCE exams!

Back: Tilda Jukes, Michael Reeves, Jai Sharma, Hugo Lethbridge-Ford Front: Maddie Lim, James Short

Her name may not be familiar to a great number of alumni but her contribution to Ivanhoe Grammar School for nearly fifty years, particularly with the Ladies Association, was significant. Born in 1926, Norma’s involvement with Ivanhoe Grammar School commenced in 1972 when her son Randal (’77) was enrolled in Year 7. Norma joined the Ivanhoe Grammar School Ladies Association in 1972 and was determined to see it fulfill its charter as a major supporter of school fundraising activities.

Norma became Ladies Association Vice President in 1974, President in 1977 and Past Parents Association President in 1978. Under her direction, these associations funded numerous projects at Ridgeway Campus, and while the Ladies Association was re-named Friends of Ridgeway Campus in 2023, it continues its financial support for various school projects.

Apart from her involvement with the School, Norma became, involved with many local organisations and her lifetime of community service was rewarded in 2008 with an Australia Day Honor. Her involvement with the School continued long after son Randal completed his secondary schooling and became an internationally acclaimed architect. The Norma Marsh Scholarship was established in 2016 by a generous endowment established by Randal to honour his mother’s association with the School, and mark her 90th birthday. Norma continued to attend as many school events as possible up to the end or her life. Smart, personable, energetic, positive, Norma will be missed by the entire school community, but particularly her son Randal and daughter Paula.

Development Roundup 2024

The Development Office exists to act as a conduit between alumni, donors, past parents and friends of the School. To this end we have been busy with 12 reunions, four gatherings of The Ridgeway Club and involvement in numerous functions around the School. Thanks to those who have attended these events and given their time to ensure their success. Fundraising is also an important part of our yearly endeavours. The growth of our scholarship funds during the year is testament to the fact that those, who believe that a first-class education should be available to everyone, are prepared to contribute towards them. Our Annual Appeal this year supported our AI program in establishing several virtual reality hubs.

We are always happy to welcome alumni back to the School and encourage anyone who would like to have a tour to get in touch with our office on (03) 9490 3508

Alumni Enrolment Reminders

Future enrolments at the School are now at record levels with great demand for places from alumni. However, it is important to remind those intending to lodge applications for their children that they 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

It is interesting to know that of our current students, around 10% are either sons or daughters of parents and grandparents, and in some cases, great grandparents of alumni!

VALE – FIDELIS USQUE AD MORTEM

We acknowledge the passing of the following individuals who were part of the Ivanhoe Grammar School family.

David Goldsworthy (’54) Brown Era

Christopher Hewett (’63) Brown Era

Richard Highett (’57) Brown Era

Bernie Jacobson (’54) Brown Era

Simon Verbyla (’13) Fraser Era

Camden Wilkie (’77) Sligo Era

The School would also like to acknowledge the passing of Dorothy Pizzey AM. Dorothy was Vice Principal/Deputy Headmistress at Ivanhoe Girls Grammar School for 13 years, and a member of the Pizzey family which has been synonymous with Ivanhoe Grammar School since its inception.

In Remembrance – Norma Marsh

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