CHARLES SLIGO: THE SCHOOL’S THIRD HEADMASTER
On 3 February 1975, fifty years ago this year and sixty years after its foundation, the Reverend Charles Edsall Alexander Sligo, became Ivanhoe Grammar School’s third Headmaster.
Given his enormous contribution during his period as Headmaster, it is fitting to pay tribute to the man who presided over the era of greatest change to the School since its foundation.
Charles Sligo succeeded Victor (Jock) Brown who had led the School 27 years following the retirement of the Reverend Sydney Buckley in 1947.
Charles had earlier been a staff member at Brighton Grammar School and later the Headmaster of Gippsland Grammar School, where he oversaw its amalgamation with St Anne’s Church of England Girls’ School. This was perhaps a foretaste of things to come with the introduction of co-education at Ivanhoe Grammar School.
He came to Ivanhoe Grammar School as an experienced Headmaster. His vision was articulated clearly and based upon traditional ‘public’ school values and symbols. Charles once described the School as a “diamond that needed a little polishing” and he set about strengthening the School’s selfconfidence and pride.
He built on the strong traditions of the former headmasters to create an environment where students were
taught to strive for excellence in everything, whether that be study, sport, cadets, music or any other activity.
He was quoted as saying “do the ordinary things extraordinarily well. Observe the regular daily duties, be polite, do your homework, wear the uniform correctly.”
During his 21 years as Headmaster, Charles oversaw unprecedented growth in terms of buildings and enrolments. He was a man of enormous vision and seemingly limitless energy, and amongst his many achievements, will possibly best be remembered for the establishment of the Plenty Campus in 1990, now an integral part of Ivanhoe Grammar School.
In addition, he oversaw the construction of the L G Knorr Building and the Chapel of the Holy Trinity. Other projects including the redevelopment of Buckley Hall, the opening of Charnwood Outdoor Education Centre and longterm lease of Chelsworth Park were just a few completed during his time.
While he was seen by many as an incredibly imposing figure, he was also charismatic, dignified and compassionate.
He was also very keen to win every possible sporting premiership, and in 1980 when the School won the AGSV swimming trophy breaking Mentone’s run of 15 straight wins, he declared a school holiday.
A couple of years later he had to abandon the gesture because the School was winning multiple premierships each year!
Charles’ first wife Anne died in 1996. He later married Betty and at the time of his death in the School’s centenary year, they were living in retirement in Woodend.
His appointment as Life Governor was in recognition of his significant contribution and service to the School for over two decades, while the stainedglass window (see image below) in the School Chapel to mark his life and work at the School reflected his belief that his role was that of a shepherd.
He not only led the School with great vision, instinct and initiative, but he also set it up for his successor in the best possible shape.
He will long be remembered by staff, students, alumni and all those with whom he came in contact during his leadership at Ivanhoe Grammar School.
Charles Sligo – Official Portrait
Charles Sligo handing out free drinks on Day 1 of Plenty Campus
Rev. Sligo ‘Window of Good Shepherd’ in the Chapel of the Holy Trinity
The EgoYah Podcast
As mentioned in late 2024, an exciting innovation for the OIGA has been the setting up of an alumni podcast.
With the slogan ‘Uncovering Stories from Ivanhoe Grammar Alumni,’ Michael Bacskos (’09), OIGA President, hosts monthly interviews with prominent alumni about their careers, experiences, insights and career advice, while also highlighting the diverse paths they have taken since leaving the School.
It is hoped that sharing these stories will connect and support fellow alumni through a sense of community belonging. With over 20,000 alumni around the world in varying careers and life stages, there is a plethora of stories to celebrate, absorb and enjoy.
Already, four episodes have been released including Lana Murphy (’10); Crime Reporter at 9 News; Adriano Del Monte (’06); International TV Sports Presenter, Host & Journalist; Chris Branigan (’97), IGS Director of Co-Curricular Learning and OIGFC President, and Martin Goh (’08), Marketing & Operations Manager at Monards Watches. The podcast with Lana (‘Behind the News & Melbourne’s Crime Scene’) has received wonderful feedback, and it is hoped that others will be equally well received.
All the podcasts are accessible for viewing via the OIGA website (‘The Egoyah Podcast’) and also via Spotify and Apple streaming services.
When AC/DC played Buckley Hall
There are probably not many schools or students who can say that the world’s fourth biggest selling band of all time once performed at their school. But for the Ivanhoe Grammar School students of 1975, that is exactly the case when AC/DC played at Buckley Hall.
Fifty years ago, as part of their ‘High Voltage’ tour, AC/DC were the headline act at the School Formal on Saturday 5 April 1975. In 1974, the band agreed to perform at the dance the following year which was before their album ‘High Voltage’ skyrocketed in the charts. The group headed off on their first national tour in 1975, but rising fame did not
stop the band from honouring the agreement.
The band charged the School the grand total of $240 for their performance. To keep costs down, the band even left their roadies at home and let the students run the lighting and stage management for the night.
The late Bon Scott was lead singer and Angus Young wore his school uniform, a practice that continues to this day!
It was a memorable night for those students who attended. One of those was Peter Swain (’75) who took a girl named Pauline to the dance that night on their first date.
Pauline has now been his wife for 44 years and also taught at the Plenty Campus from 2001-2018.
No matter how many other concerts those there on that night in April 1975 have since attended, very few would have forgotten about witnessing AC/DC at their raucous and rawest best, and a band which was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
Study Advice for Year 12s
In early May, alumni Georgie Wooller (’24) and Charlie Opie (‘24) returned to the School to offer essential advice to Year 12 students studying Health and Human Development. Georgie is a Speech Pathology student at ACU and Charlie is working while taking a gap year from full time study. As high achievers in Health and Human Development in 2024, they passed on their own knowledge and experience to current students, which helped them succeed in exams whilst also dealing with the stresses of Year 12. Pictured above (left to right) are Georgie, Ella Federico (Deputy Head of House, Sherwood) and Charlie.
Our Greatest Athlete Recognised
Ivanhoe Harriers, established in 1914 by Reverend Sydney Buckley, has enjoyed a successful 2024/25 season both on and off the track. The 110-year celebration event was a great occasion with members travelling from far and wide to attend. The relationship between the Harriers and the OIGA continues to grow and demonstrates a lifelong connection between the two organisations.
At its Annual General Meeting in May, the Club introduced a new Perpetual Trophy. The Alf Watson Memorial Trophy is to be awarded annually to the most outstanding sprinter/hurdler at the club.
Alf Watson (1924) was a champion all-round sportsman and the School’s first Olympian, representing Australia in athletics at the 1928 and 1936 Olympic Games. The inaugural winner of the award, Perrin Theocharides (21), (above left) was presented with the trophy by Joan Franklin, wife of Ivanhoe Harriers President Jeff Franklin OAM. Joan also just happens to be a second cousin to Alf Watson!
Also at the AGM, Committee Member Mike Wallis (‘91) was awarded Life Membership of the Ivanhoe Harriers. He is the third member of his family, along with his mother and father, and one of just 33 people, to receive this recognition.
Master of Fashion
It may have been a complete culture shock when he arrived in Melbourne but the impact of the School on William Wong (’89) remains to this day.
William came to Australia in 1988 and completed Year 11 & 12 at the School over the following two years. Not only did his English greatly improve but it became a life changing experience through his exposure to a foreign culture and developing excellent social skills.
He describes the late Ian Good, one of his former teachers, as a hugely important figure in this time, as a guide, mentor, tutor and supporter.
Following school, William worked extensively in the fashion and shoe sectors in Asia.
Ottawa Bound
He set up Goddess International Limited at the age of 25 and remains the Managing Director. He was also the Managing Director and Brand Owner of Betta Slippers for 13 years, founding CEO of Italian Fashion Galleria, China, and the list goes on!
William has won numerous awards within the International Fashion arena and co-founded the Federation of Hong Kong Brands to help small and medium-sized local manufacturers explore their opportunities.
In 2010, he established Italian Fashion Galleria which distributes and retails ‘Made in Italy’ footwear and leather accessories in China.
In 2013, he was the very first Asian to be awarded the MICAM Award for his efforts to promote Italian products in China (pictured left with his award).
William was recently interviewed by the Wall Street Journal following President Trump’s imposition of global tariffs. This has forced American apparel and shoemakers to scour the world for new places to manufacture their products.
The support given to him during his time at the School encouraged William and his wife Lynn to send their elder child, Jonathan (’14) to complete his secondary education at the School.
William has been a generous donor to the School for many years, and attends reunions in Hong Kong and Melbourne whenever possible.
Congratulations to Callum Eddings (’19) who has been drafted by the Ottawa Redblacks NFL team as a punter for the 2025 season. The Redblacks are a professional football team which plays in the East Division of the Canadian Football League. Callum moved to the USA to study Business Administration at the McNeese State University, Louisiana before undertaking his MBA at Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. In his response to Gerard Foley’s message of congratulations, Callum said that he “was incredibly grateful for your belief in me from the beginning”.
Tick Tick Tarik
The career, profile and skill set of Tarik Frimpong (’12) as an actor, singer and dancer continues to grow.
Tarik trained from a young age at his mother’s performing arts school ‘Dance Explosion’, and made his professional theatre debut and gained wide prominence playing the role of ‘Young Simba’ in Disney’s ‘The Lion King’.
Since then, his career has encompassed theatre, film and commercials. Recent theatre credits include ‘Aladdin - The Musical’ (West-End) and We Aren’t Kids Anymore, while his films include Mary Poppins Returns (2019), The Little Mermaid (2023), Snow White (2024) and Wicked (2024).
He is now starring in the hit musical Tick Tick Boom, a story about the ambition, perseverance and sacrifice needed to reach the edge of greatness. A wonderful metaphor for Tarik’s own success story.
Seat of Learning
Ken Norman (’58) made a visit to the School during Term 2 with his wife Pat and grandson Riley Trew (’23). Ken has been a generous supporter of the School and has purchased two Seats of Learning in the Middle Years Lecture Theatre for his grandsons Ashley Bannan (’12) and Riley Trew.
Ken’s parents married in the 1930’s and went west during the depression. He grew up in Kalgoorlie where his father bought a gold mine and after they sold it, returned to Melbourne where he was enrolled at Ivanhoe Grammar School. Ken owned several newsagents, has four daughters and still lives in Rosanna. Ken is pictured above sitting in the seat purchased with his grandson Ashley’s name.
For readers of The Brown and White, there are still a few seats in the Middle Years Lecture Theatre available for naming. Please contact Geoff Brown (’62), Development Manager on (03) 9490 3423 or via email to geoff.brown@ivanhoe. com.au for further information.
Bali Bar Bound?
Martin Pound (’05) attended the recent 20-year Ridgeway Reunion at Hotel Collingwood to catch up with friends from 2005. Martin is the General Manager of the Sydney Myer Music Bowl, a role he has fulfilled since 2016 and credits former teacher Franz Mandler for fostering his interest in hospitality. Martin is considering a major sea change and opening a bar in Bali or Thailand in the near future.
Reconnecting in NYC
Following a challenging pathway out of Wuhan at the start of the pandemic in 2020, Regan Li (’20) made it back to the School to complete his IB studies and continues to express his appreciation for the support of the teachers at the School during those difficult times. Following school, Regan studied Social Work at New York University and maintains regular contact with those from his peer year. Regan recently caught up with Max Welsch (’20) who was undertaking an internship at Jane Street trading firm. Max completed a Bachelor of Commerce and Diploma in Computing at the University of Melbourne, with a double major in Economics and Finance. He is now a tutor at the university in Quantitative Methods.
Destination A Grade
The 2025 season has commenced very positively for the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Football Club. At the time of the King’s Birthday mid-season break, the First XVIII sits on top of the ladder with 7 wins from 8 matches, with the only loss coming against Old Camberwell. The Reserves are also performing well, sitting in third place, while the Under 19s are top of the ladder in their competition. All teams are again looking ahead to September and hoping they can mirror their sensational 2023 season.
HATCHED & MATCHED
Congratulations to our alumni below who have recently celebrated wonderful personal events.
Claire Evans (‘16) married Gihan Gunadasa in February
Grace Cooper (’14) married Matthew O’Sullivan (’14) in February
Jade Darrington (’08) and Tyson Hill (’07) welcomed son Lucas in April
Georgia Sanders (‘16) announced her engagement to Anthony in March
Josh Spoor (’07) and partner Tanya Pierce welcomed daughter Rhiley last December
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
SAVE THE DATE 2025
THE DATE 2025
The 2025 OIGA reunion program has kicked off the year in a big way. 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
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
Please ensure that you save the date for your reunion and spread the word to other alumni and ask them to update their contact details. Invitations will be sent out closer to the date of the event. We are looking forward to connecting with many of you throughout the year!
Emily Coen (’10) married Tim Rosewarne in March
THE LAST POST CEREMONY: ARTHUR HUGH TIBBITTS
The Last Post Ceremony is presented in the Commemorative Courtyard of the Australian War Memorial every day of the year except Christmas Day. The ceremony commemorates more than 102,000 Australians who have given their lives in war and other operations, and whose names are recorded on the Roll of Honour. At each ceremony since 2013, the story behind one of the names on the Roll of Honour is told.
On 22 January 2022, the story for that day was that of Lieutenant Arthur Hugh Sinclair Tibbitts (’31), read by Captain Vaughn Rixon, Royal Australian Navy. This was also the 80th anniversary of his death on 22 January 1942. It is a story of great courage, fortitude and tragedy, and regrettably, also one of the worst atrocities of the Second World War.
Early Days
Arthur was born in Melbourne on 15 May 1916, the only son of Arthur and Grace Tibbitts. He had two older sisters, Marjorie and Phyllis.
Arthur was enrolled at Ivanhoe Grammar School in 1923 (Student No. 265) and remained at the School until 1931. After school, Arthur worked as a clerk and in 1937 he joined the Citizen’s Forces and served a year with 2nd Division’s Army Service Corps. The following year he joined the 6th Infantry Battalion.
On the outbreak of war in September 1939, Arthur was called on for war service and was promoted to corporal the following month. By the end of the year, his talent for leading men saw him made provisional lieutenant.
Pool of Reflection - Australian War Memorial
Lt Arthur Tibbitts
In June 1941, he was seconded for service with the Australian Imperial Force where he was formally appointed lieutenant and allotted to the new 8th Division’s 2/29th Battalion.
On 19 July 1941, Arthur married Marion Mary Hoban at Christ Church, Hawthorn, just twelve days before his unit was sent overseas. They arrived in Singapore a few weeks later and were then stationed in southern Malaya. There, they continued training and began preparing to fight in jungle conditions.
Tension with Japan
Within four months of their arrival, Japan entered the war and began landing on the north coast of Malaya in the early hours of 8 December 1941. They quickly swept through the countryside, outnumbering and outmanoeuvring allied units, who were forced into a fighting withdrawal. A week later the Japanese were pressing into southern Malaya, where the 2/29th would soon be in action against them. Along with other units, the 2/29th fought the Japanese to a standstill at Bakri, but they were outnumbered and outflanked, and were soon forced to withdraw. Their retreat was stopped at the Parit Sulong bridge, and unable to break through, the decision was made to split up into small groups and try to make it back to friendly lines.
But not all were capable of moving. 110 Australians and 35 men from the 45th Indian Brigade, most of them wounded, were left behind. Several officers, including Lieutenants Hackney and Tibbitts, and Captain Snelling of the 2/19th, stayed behind.
During 22 January 1942, while hundreds of their comrades made their escape, Hackney kept up automatic fire from a Bren gun positioned beneath a truck.
At one stage Tibbitts braved enemy fire to go out and find more magazines to keep the Japanese at bay, buying more time for their comrades to get away. But by around 2.30 pm, with the ammunition all gone, the game was up.
The Parit Sulong Massacre
When the firing ceased, the Japanese cautiously approached and soon began gathering up the wounded Australians and Indians.
All were very roughly handled; punched, kicked, prodded with bayonets and bashed with rifle butts. Those unable to move, or moving too slowly, were bayonetted or shot dead. The survivors were herded together and stripped naked, before being shoved into a nearby shed. The suffering and misery was immense. But worse was to come.
The Japanese divisional commander ordered the ‘disposal’ of the prisoners. At dusk, they were roped together and roughly led towards the nearby riverbank.
Tibbitts tried in vain to help his friend Hackney along, but he could not walk. Nor could Captain Snelling, so both he and Hackney were clubbed until both lay motionless – apparently dead.
The remainder, including Tibbitts, continued under a rain of blows towards a clearing by the river where they were brutally gunned down en masse. Petrol was then poured over the writhing, moaning bodies, some still alive, and they were set alight. Once the flames and screams had died away, it is said the Japanese also drove trucks back and forth over the remains.
Only three Australians survived the massacre, one being Lieutenant Hackney, who for many hours feigned death, and in a feat of miraculous endurance, including years as a prisoner of war, lived to tell the story.
But among those murdered was his comrade in arms and friend, Lieutenant Arthur Hugh Tibbitts who was 25 years old.
The Story Emerges
The true story of the massacre at Parit Sulong did not fully emerge until after the war. The remains of those murdered were never recovered and were probably washed away over time, as the river regularly flooded.
Tibbitts and the others therefore have no known grave, so they are commemorated on the memorial at Kranji War Cemetery in Singapore.
Their names are also listed on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial, among almost 40,000 Australians who died while serving in the Second World War.
Lieutenant Tibbitts is just one of two alumni whose stories have been read out at the Last Post Ceremony, the other one being Lieutenant William Illingworth Taylor (’34), who passed away in 2013 at 97 years of age.
The Last Post Ceremony commemorating the service of Arthur Tibbitts can be viewed by link below. https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/ C2846470
Story and video courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.
Captain Vaughn Rixon, RAN, telling the Arthur Tibbitts story
Class of 1995 – Ridgeway Campus
30 Year Reunion - Friday 9 May; Vasko Restaurant, Ivanhoe
Maurizio Marcocci, Glenn Cross
Adem Karafili, Franz Mandler
Duncan Speller. Danny Lai
Gavin Skene, Ian Le Page
Nick Assender, Michael Cameron, Charles Chien
Franz Mandler, Nick Assender, Kieran Whaley
Franz Mandler, Maurizio Marcocci
Aaron Spiller, Charles Chien
Andrew Iozzi, Maurizio Marcocci, Glenn Cross
Geoff Cox, Chris Symington, Duncan Speller, James Nicola
David Dzanovski, Gerry George, Sidney Leong, Charles Chien, Danny Lai
James Nicola, David Moyes, Angelo Christodoulakis
Kieran Whaley, Wing Cheung, Adam Simonetti, David Moyes
Class of 2005 – Ridgeway Campus
20 Year Reunion - Friday 23 May; Hotel Collingwood
Matthew Young, Troy Rowe
Ali Ozeer, Josh Philip, Bharat Agrawal, David Gibbs (Staff), Tick Jiang, Summer Wang
Myles Siegersma, Mark Brook
Summer Wang, Tick Jiang, Ali Ozeer
Nicholas Brunelli, Stefan Taleski
Martin Pound, Chad Rosenlis
Daniel Geilings, Stephen Miklosvary
Bharat Agrawal, Craig Nichol
Peter Dimarelos, Damon Papadopoulos, Dane Workman
Summer Wang (with Rod Fraser message)
Class of 2020 – Ridgeway Campus
5 Year Reunion - Friday 13 June; Hotel Collingwood
Amelie Myles, Gemma Starkey
Anthony Davey, Simon Brownjohn, Ingus Sveilis
Eoin Coolahan, Rohan Anderson
Lara Edgley, Zoe Doyle
Jess McCreadie, Nic Graham, Juliet Hales
Amos Jericho, Sarah Cameron, Nic Graham
Fred King, Haleena Nguyen, April Bozinis, Tristan Bell
Clare Thorpe, Lavender Neesham
Declan Conlan, Matthew Rocca, Ces Presta
Ben Brunton, Toby Williams
Ces Presta, Nic Graham, Sam Daniel
April Bozinis, Abbey Vella
Toto O’Brien, Oscar Hales
Aidan Siemon, Isabel O’Sullivan, Tait Adams
Tait Adams, Najeeb Sailah
Heidi Sugimoto, Madeline Gallagher- Beanland, Daniel Verrocchi
Jess McCreadie, Toto O’Brien, Amy Tapp, Gemma Starkey
Performing Arts
The Plenty Campus production of Mamma Mia provided audiences over three nights in May with a spectacular and engrossing version of the worldwide smash musical. Based on the songs of Swedish pop group Abba, the music, laughter and fun of the irresistibly charming production was pure entertainment from start to finish.
From the opening overture to the grand finale which had the performers, audience and backstage crew all up on their feet and dancing, the show can only be described as sensational.
Under the direction of Michelle Denni, Head of Plenty Theatrical Performance and Jonathon Bam, Head of Plenty Music, the cast, dancers and singers showed enormous talent and sheer enjoyment in their performance.
An absolute credit to everyone connected with the show.
Round Square Inspiring Voices: The Big Baraza
During the Term 1 holidays, four students from the School had the opportunity to travel overseas to Oxford University to participate in the Round Square Inspiring Voices: The Big Baraza.
Together with students from 50 schools from across the globe, they gained a deeper global understanding of different perspectives on major world issues and honed their ability to confidently and respectfully articulate their thoughts and contribute their opinions to the conversations.
Baraza groups offer a unique experience where students step out of their comfort zones, form new friendships, and work together on real-world issues. Baraza, a Swahili word meaning ‘talking circle’ or ‘circle of wisdom,’ creates a space for open discussion, mutual respect, and shared learning
Music in the Round
Ivanhoe Grammar School hosted the ‘Music in the Round Soiree’ at Ridgeway Campus in March. It was an unforgettable evening with numerous students delivering stunning performances in an intimate, immersive setting, showcasing their incredible musical skills. The evening was a beautiful reminder of the incredible musical talent within our school community, and it was a privilege to witness such outstanding performances.
Anzac Day 2025
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 110th year since the landing at Gallipoli which is also the 110th anniversary of the founding of Ivanhoe Grammar School.
We commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers who fought and died in wars, conflict, and peacekeeping missions. For the families and descendants of those who fought and died, the memories of those lost may fade but never disappear.
On Thursday 24 April, services were held at Plenty, University and Ridgeway Campuses where staff and students remembered and honoured the 72 alumni who died while on active service since 1939. The School’s cadet units at each campus played a meaningful and valued role in these ceremonies.
Listen to the Band!
In Term 1, the School had the privilege of hosting the Royal Australian Navy Band for an incredible performance as part of a ‘Welcome to School’ for the new Year 7 students. This one-off show was followed by a series of inspirational workshops for our senior music students. The School greatly appreciated the RAN band for sharing their musical expertise and energy with the Ridgeway students in a fantastic afternoon of music.
Battlefields Tour 2025
On Saturday 5 April, 30 students and five staff embarked on the 2025 Battlefields tour of France and Belgium. The focus of the tour was to gain an understanding of, and appreciation for, the huge sacrifices made by young Australians on the battlefields of the Western Front during the First World War.
Visits were made to the major historical sites of the 1944 D-Day landings, an event which changed the course of modern history. A broader experience for students was also gained through visits to the Bayeux Tapestry which tells the story of the Norman conquest of England, and the historic Mont St Michel Abbey.
While history was the main focus, throughout the trip there were many opportunities for students to experience local culture, language, architecture and cuisine in such locations as Paris, Bruges and Caen.
This tour has become an iconic part of the History and Humanities program at Ivanhoe Grammar School, offering students a valuable and enriching learning experience. It is hoped that it will continue to inspire and educate for many years to come.
Jazz at the Centre
Ivanhoe Grammar School’s inaugural Jazz Night lit up The Centre Ivanhoe with stunning performances from students, alumni and staff.
Throughout the night, the audience was treated to a wide range of performances, each highlighting a different facet of the school’s vibrant Music Program. From powerhouse ensembles to soulful vocals, students wowed the audience with their talent, passion, and stage presence.
The audience was thrilled by a special appearance from alumnus Aaron Syrjanen (’12). Aaron is a versatile guitarist and esteemed session musician whose musicianship and stage presence reflected the strength of Ivanhoe’s musical foundation, and he has continued to inspire current students with his continued passion for jazz.
To close the night, the Ivanhoe Grammar Staff Band took to the stage, bringing fun, flair, and high energy to their final set. Their performance capped off a night that not only celebrated music but also the connections between students, teachers, and the broader school community.
Big Group Hug
Ivanhoe Grammar School students regularly volunteer with Big Group Hug, a local charity that supports disadvantaged families in Melbourne, as part of their IDEALS program. The IDEALS (Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service) program is a weekly activity which aims to foster learning and personal growth through these six principles.
As shown below, students help to assemble baby, teen, and adult packs for families in need. They also participate in Big Group Hug’s Double Donation Day, raising funds through casual clothes days and sausage sizzles. Well done to all those who donate their time to support this essential and very worthy charity,
Model United Nations
In April, Year 9-11 students from the School joined over 100 pupils from all over Melbourne to participate in the Ivanhoe Grammar School Interschool Model United Nations Conference: Pathways to Peace: Addressing War, Conflict and International Security.
Held at Plenty Campus, students took part in a heated and realistic discussion to deliberate the passing of a resolution towards peace under the guidance of Adrian Morrice, a past UN sustainable peace advisor.
Feedback was unanimous in relation to learning about diplomacy, public speaking and teamwork. It was an engaging and positive experience that definitely deserves to be repeated.
Annual Appeal 2025
The Annual Appeal 2025 celebrates the founding of the School 110 years ago. It has largely been through the support of the entire Ivanhoe community that this milestone has been reached, and you can continue this legacy by considering a gift to Annual Appeal 2025 via the following link: www.ivanhoe.com.au/ourcommunity/giving
Please contact Geoff Brown (’62), Development Manager on (03) 9490 3423 or via email to geoff.brown@ivanhoe.com.au for further information.
SCHOOL SPORTING NEWS
Swimming Year 9 student
Ciara Jeffs delivered a dynamic performance at the Australian Age Swimming Championships in April. Representing Victoria in Under 15 events, Ciara won gold in the 200m backstroke, 100m butterfly and 200m freestyle, silver in the 100m freestyle, 100m backstroke and 50m backstroke, and a bronze in the 4x50m relay. A phenomenal achievement and testament to her talent, dedication and hard work.
AFL
Congratulations to Jesse Ingleton (Year 10), Ruby Lockyer (Year 9) and Olivia Bird (Year 9) on their selection by School Sport Victoria for its Victorian Under-15 Boys and Girls’ squads for the national championships. The teams will compete in the School Sport Australia titles in Brisbane between July 26 and August 2.
Volleyball
The Girls’ Firsts Volleyball team played a closely contested Grand Final match against Caulfield but ultimately finished as runners-up in a narrow loss. However, the team’s dedication to training, teamwork, and perseverance has been truly commendable and suggests a championship win is not far away. Well done girls.
House
Swimming
The 2025 Ridgeway Campus Swimming Carnival was an atmosphere of excitement, energy and friendly competition. Congratulations to Athelstane for taking home the cup! Their dedication and effort truly paid off. Well done to all students for their participation and for making the day such a memorable and fun-filled experience.
Hockey
Congratulations to Molly Noonan (Year 10) who has been selected in the U16 National Hockey Squad, This comes just after she co-captained the Victorian U16 Girls team to a bronze medal at the National Championships in Adelaide. The U16 National Squads are a new addition to the athlete development pathway and will support talent ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane!
Cricket Year 10 student
Dhanush Dahiya (left) and Year 9 student Henry Stone (right) were selected for the Victorian U15 Cricket Team which competed at the School Sport Australia Championships in Adelaide. While Victoria didn’t win the trophy, both boys performed well and showed great promise for the future.
Swimming
Led by Matthew Golding, Eliza Burge and Emily Stevens, the 2025 AGSV swimming championships was a thrilling event. The Boys’ team improved from last year, moving from fourth place to third. For our Girls’ team, the result was clinched in the very last race where they were crowned AGSV Champions with a halfpoint victory over Mentone Grammar. (L-R; Matthew Golding, Eliza Burge, Emily Stevens, Gerard Foley).
Basketball
The profile of Year 11 student Sophie Richardson continues to grow following her selection in the U16 Sapphires Squad! Sophie will attend the training camp in Canberra
to prepare for the FIBA Asia U16 Cup in September. Recently, Sophie represented Victoria at the U18 National Championships in Queensland, where the Vic Metro Women’s team went undefeated.
Speed Skating
It may not yet have the biggest profile but interest in Inline Speed Skating will certainly be on the rise following the performance of
Matilda Wanless (Year 12) at the recent National Speed Skating Championships in Brisbane. Tilly, a prefect at Plenty Campus and a member of the ‘Bayside Blades’ club, broke five records at the event, and is an outstanding ambassador for this growing sport.
Golf
Since becoming an official summer sport offering in 2022, interest and participation in golf at the School has grown enormously. While golf is not a formal APS or AGSV fixture, the School is enjoying some excellent tournament successes. This includes:
Kew Golf Challenge: Led by co-captains Max Pettenon and Jeremy Rodgers, the School’s golf team secured its third consecutive Kew Golf Challenge victory against strong competition from Trinity Grammar, Scotch College, and St Kevin’s.
Grammar Cup: A standout golf event is the annual Grammar Cup, a twoleg tournament against Camberwell Grammar. For the third consecutive year, the School claimed the Cup with team members shown below.
These successes highlight the team’s preparation, teamwork and composure under pressure which reinforces the School’s strong golf program, under the expert guidance of Ben Ernest, Deputy Head of House, Thoresby.
(l-r) Jeremy Thorpe, Xavier McNeill, Louis Inifer, Jeremy Rodgers, Max Pettenon, Harry Goodison, Romi Simkus, Ben Ernest (staff)
A Life Fulfilled: Graham Hawke Remembered
The School is mourning the loss of former School Captain and Life Governor Graham Hawke (’44) who passed away in April. His funeral in Brisbane was attended by his extended family and friends, while Principal Gerard Foley, who gave one of the eulogies, Development Manager Geoff Brown (‘62) and Linda Paltoglou travelled from Melbourne to recognise his enormous involvement with, and contribution to the School, over the past 87 years.
Graham had a unique association with Ivanhoe Grammar School. Not only was he one of a select few who were Captain of both Junior and Senior Schools, he was also a staff member on two separate occasions.
Born in the family home in Ivanhoe, Graham was enrolled at the School in 1938 and quickly established himself as an exceptional sportsman, scholar and leader. He was a Yea Boarder, and in his final year, Captain of School, Captain of the First XI and played in a premiership with the First XVIII.
An outstanding student, Graham joined the staff in 1945 on the invitation
of Reverend Sydney Buckley, while undertaking his accountancy studies at the University of Melbourne and completing his teacher training. It was also through Syd Buckley that he met his future wife, Barbara, to whom he was married for over 60 years before her passing in 2015.
He taught general subjects in the Junior School and later mathematics and commerce in the Senior School. He was a successful and highly respected coach of under-age football and cricket teams, all of whom were noted for their immaculate turn-out and sense of fair play.
In 1951, he entered the business world where he remained for the next 30 years, primarily in Queensland, before returning to Victoria in 1980 to rejoin the School where he taught Business Studies and Accounting until 1982. He also assumed the role as Senior Sportsmaster with great success and respect. Graham returned to Queensland in 1982 with his wife Barbara and continued to work before finally retiring in 1992.
Despite his advancing years, Graham’s connection with the School remained undiminished for the remainder of his life, regularly returning to Melbourne to attend reunions and the annual School Captains Assembly, often remarking that coming back to the School was like returning home. As with Barbara’s ashes, it is Graham’s wish that his ashes will also be spread in the gardens next to the School Chapel at Ridgeway Campus.
The School extends their sympathies to Graham’s sons Andrew, Ian and David and his extended family, and acknowledges the legacy that he has left to past, current and future students at the School.
Fidelis Usque Ad Mortem
Fidelis Society Lunch 2025
The Fidelis Society was established in 1988 to acknowledge those people who have made a pledge to the School in their Will. Members receive invitations to special events and the annual Fidelis Society Lunch hosted by the Principal. Attendees (left) at the 2025 Fidelis Society Lunch enjoyed another great day in Term 2. Further information is available from Geoff Brown (’62), Development Manager.
VALE FIDELIS USQUE AD MORTEM
We acknowledge the passing of the following individuals who were part of the Ivanhoe Grammar School family.
Wally Beaver (‘63) Brown Era
Ross Chapman (’55) Brown Era
Graham Hawke (’44) Buckley Boy
Andrew McPhee (’80) Sligo Era
David Tynan (’44) Buckley Boy
Ron Weaven (’44) Buckley Boy
