49 minute read
Internationality
from Open Gate 2020
MIKI KENNEDY, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
What an unforgettable year this has been. Through all the hardships suffered by many across the globe, this year has provided me with insight into how privileged I am to belong to a community such as KRB. Much like many of my peers, when we came back from two weeks of Remote Learning, we all had a newfound appreciation for our friends, peers, teachers, cleaners, parents, facilities, and more. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has put effort and time into getting us back onto campus and continuing to teach us and stay connected while we were remote. Thank you. Being on the Student Leadership Committee has been an incredible experience, equipping me with skills that I will take with me into postschool life. The team’s fortnightly meetings with our Principal, Director of Students, Year 12 Coordinator and Student Leadership Coordinator has helped foster our ability to put thoughts into action, make our voices heard, solve problems and to find efficient ways to better our community. It has further emphasised the importance of listening to opinions raised by others, as exemplified by our teachers who have patiently listened to what we, student leaders, have to say. With many changes to the usual school year, as a team we were forced to think of innovative ways we could bring the school community together remotely. During this global crisis, my position as a student leader has taught me so much about leadership and the importance of community.
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My position as Head of International Students has allowed me to fully appreciate our global connection, and with it, helped to grow my respect and understanding for all people. In a new initiative called ‘2020News’ that our team started this year, I have run the ‘International Segment’ which has involved reaching out to students at Sacred Heart schools around the world and being sent videos from them. The presence of our international Sacred Heart community was especially felt due to the crises we have endured, including the bushfires earlier this year. We received cards from our sister school, Sacred Heart High School in Hammersmith, London. One of the students wrote, “We might be on the other side of the world, but we want you to know that as fellow Children of the Sacred Heart, you have been in our thoughts and prayers”. When some of the cards written by Year 7 students were read out at our Country Week Assembly, all of the students were touched by the support system that we have around the world. Similarly, we also sent letters to our sister Sacred Heart schools around the world to show our solidarity during the pandemic. Another highlight was the Cultural Diversity Assembly and Lunch organised with the Cultural Diversity Captains. This is a much loved event at KRB however, due to COVID-19 restrictions we were not able to hold the event as usual. Instead of the stalls we have on the Harbour Terrace we adapted the assembly into a video and had the lunch orders from the canteen have a different cuisine for a week. We also sent out recipes of different cuisines that people could make at home, so that the boarders who were still unable to come back to school would be able to take part in the festivities. This event is a truly special event which allows students to gain an understanding of cultures around the world, through fun videos and activities. I personally love these events as it encourages students to embrace and celebrate diversity in culture and gives students the opportunity to showcase their own cultures.
Although this year hasn’t gone as anyone had planned nor expected, being able to lead the School and have the opportunity to make changes in the community has been an honour and a privilege that we have learnt not to take for granted.
KRB’S EXCHANGE PROGRAM
KRB continues to strengthen its Global Exchange Program. Students are provided with a unique opportunity to expand their learning beyond the campus by living and studying at one of many Sacred Heart Schools around the world.
The KRB Exchange Program, which is unique to Sacred Heart Schools, enables students to increase their knowledge and understanding of the five Sacred Heart goals, allows them to develop resilience and provides the opportunity to connect with Sacred Heart students worldwide.
The following students went on Exchange to Sacred Heart Schools in December 2019 and January 2020. • Anna Reilly, Convent of the
Sacred Heart – Greenwich,
Connecticut, USA • Amelia Hoffman, Convent of the Sacred Heart – Greenwich,
Connecticut, USA
• Bianca Meli, Convent of the Sacred
Heart – New York, USA
• Aristea McMahon, Convent of the
Sacred Heart – New York, USA
• Marie Khoury, Obayashi Sacred
Heart School – Obayashi, Japan
• Ashleigh Cunningham, Stone Ridge
School of the Sacred Heart –
Bethesda, Maryland, USA • Emma Chiew , Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart – Bethesda,
Maryland, USA • Natalia Soncini, Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart – Bethesda,
Maryland, USA
THE YOUNG DIPLOMATS TOUR
"I was one of 16 young Australians chosen for the UN Youth Australia’s Young Diplomats Tour in January. YDT is a four-week study tour of Europe, in which delegates are able to explore the complex realities of diplomacy in the 21st century. We travelled to seven cities: Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Budapest, Krakow, The Hague and Brussels. Over the course of the month, we had over 40 consultations with key players in international diplomacy, UN representatives, ambassadors, European politicians, diplomats, and members of NGOs and grassroots organisations. In the first city of the tour, Berlin, I was amazed to be in a place with such a rich history, from WWII to the Fall of the Berlin Wall. It was surreal visiting monuments, such as the Brandenburg Gate and memorials, including the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the book burning memorial at Bebelplatz, of which I had learnt about in my Modern History classes. YDT was a life-changing experience. I have been inspired by the incredible individuals in the world of diplomacy, particularly the large population of Australians who work overseas and contribute greatly to the functioning of our world."
Antipodean Trip
ANTIPODEAN TRIP TO INDIA
KRB and Antipodeans have worked together for years to provide students with an opportunity to visit India. The purpose of the trip is threefold: to push the students out of their comfort zones and experience a very different culture; to complete a four-day hike while camping; and to further develop their awareness of social justice with their participation in a community project and further enhance and build upon their leadership skills with the exploration element of the trip. A group of 22 students and two teachers set off on a two-week trip to India in December 2019.
“A highlight for me would have to be the community project. I really enjoyed it because we were immersed into the amazing Indian culture, through meeting beautiful people, eating authentic, home-made food and learning from those who have a different culture to us. It gave our group the opportunity to play games and meet children of all ages who live such different lives to us. It was a very rewarding experience.”
Annabel Kirwan (Year 11, 2020)
Antipodean Trip
TAS SHOWCASE
On Friday 23 August 2019, the TAS Department hosted their second Annual Showcase, which was a sold-out event. Special guests in attendance included Leanne Whitehouse from The Whitehouse Institute of Design and artists from Studio A.
Practical work from students in Years 7-11 was showcased, including acrylic jewellery, fabric bags, graphic design t-shirts, polypropylene lamps, vintage inspired dresses and laser cut wearable couture. Year 12 students also presented their Major Design Projects at the show. As part of the show, Leanne Whitehouse gave a joint Best in Show Award to Jacquelyn Reimer and Emily Hunter in Year 12. They were both awarded a $500 voucher to be used to attend one of their short courses provided by Whitehouse. Tahni Hegyesi-Fleming was also awarded second in Show, and has received a voucher to attend a Summer School course at Whitehouse.
SHAPE
The following Year 12 students received SHAPE nominations for their Design and Technology Major Design Projects in 2019.
• Jacquelyn Reimer
• Grace Findlay
• Isabella Shiell SHAPE showcases a selection of outstanding major projects from the HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design courses.
HSC DRAMA SHOWCASE
In late July 2019, the Year 12 Drama students presented their Individual Projects and Performances and Group Devised Performances for their Trial Examination, to an audience of family, staff and students in the KRB Drama Suite.
A talented and hard-working Drama cohort, the four Group Performances were thought-provoking and reflective of the girls’ sophisticated understanding of theatre’s power to give a voice to those in the minority. There was strong influence of the viewpoints performance style embedded in the group performances, resulting in engaging
and thought-provoking physical theatre pieces. Twelve individual performances featured monologues in the style of realism, absurdism, musical theatre and physical theatre. Additionally, three students chose to complete their Individual Project in the areas of critical analysis and promotional design.
CHAPEL CONCERT
The Senior School Chapel Concert was held on Friday 16 August, 2019 and featured the HSC Music class, Choir, Orchestra, Chamber Choir, soloists and ensembles all in our beautiful chapel.
THE WITCHES
The Years 7 and 8 production, The Witches, based on the Roald Dahl novel, was performed on 25 and 26 November in the Hughes Centre. It was an exciting opportunity to perform David Wood’s adaption of Roald Dahl’s classic novel. In order to keep a touch of nostalgia, the play was set in the 1990s, just after the time the original novel was set. The entire cast was made up of strong female characters and moved the location of the story from England to Australia to make the setting more familiar for our cast and audience. It was an unforgettable performance, filled with thrills and laughter.
SNAPSHOT OF SENIOR SCHOOL ARTISTS
Yasmina Muldoon
Eloise North
SOCIAL JUSTICE
NATASHA ONG, HEAD OF SOCIAL JUSTICE
Social Justice is at the core of what being a KRB student is, and my role this past year as Head of Social Justice has afforded me the ability to engage with this foundation of a KRB student’s identity and help both our school community and the wider community flourish. In this, I have been privileged to work with such an enthusiastic and supportive Student Leadership Committee. In all Social Justice initiatives introduced this past year, I have strived to bring greater awareness to enduring social issues, and respond dynamically with action to unprecedented events. Last year, religious leaders called for a humanitarian response to the refugee crisis on Manus Island and Nauru. In response, I, with the support of other Student Leaders, organised a petition calling for resettling of refugees to a safer environment. It was signed by students and teachers throughout the senior school and was sent to the Government. I received a letter in response from PM Scott Morrison, affirming the powerful contribution of the KRB community to reinforce awareness of social justice issues. I’ve also been afforded the opportunity to work with students in my cohort to respond to social justice issues they are passionate about. I worked with Phoebe Thackray to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer for the McGrath Foundation, through a netball game and bake sale. In response to the 2019 bushfires which personally impacted boarders and their communities, I worked alongside Ella Scott, Gabby Carroll and Mia McCristal on the Bushfire Appeal. Students and teachers contributed various sports equipment, which was donated to bushfire-affected schools in Batlow, Mogo, Bobin and Milton. It was an incredible effort and the generosity of the Junior and Senior School community during crises truly flourished. I was also able to bring a new approach to the annual Christmas Appeal. Each pastoral was assigned a specific family which their donations would support. This personal element resonated immensely with students and teachers, with almost double the expected donations received. To me, this really demonstrated KRB’s social justice spirit exceeding expectations, reflecting the dynamic nature of this role that has been a joy to experience firsthand. Finally, I have been able to engage with social justice on an international level. In response to COVID-19, I wrote a letter of support sent to Sacred Heart schools in Australia and globally.
"Overall, with the support of Mr Mooney, Mrs McDougall and my cohort. I am incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to engage with the generosity and openmindedness of the entire KRB community. It has enabled my desire for actionable change to truly flourish, and I hope to continue extending this as I head into the future."
SPORT
AUDREY PISTO, HEAD OF SPORT
Over the course of this year, my role as Head of Sport has allowed me to be a part of a lot different and unique experiences. Although this year has been a little bit all over the place, I feel as though I have grown as a leader of this School as well as an individual in which I have been equipped with skills that I will use into my life after school. I’ve strived to make the most of my leadership in which I have been given the opportunity to coach younger basketball teams. This allowed me to connect and form relationships with the other year groups which, as a result of coming to KRB in Year 10, were year groups that I had not connected with before. With sport being such a large part of Kincoppal–Rose Bay I was fortunate enough to work behind the scenes on large events such as the Swimming Carnival and the Presentation of Awards at Assembly. Through my Sports Reports I was able to provide the whole KRB community with insight of the sporting world and further encourage all to give everything a go, whether it be in terms of sport, academics or other activities. In particular, I spoke about the influence that sports people have had on me and tried to share this with the community. For some, public speaking is scary, although I believe that speaking to the community as Head of Sport gave me the ability to not only show my own vulnerabilities, but also gave me the opportunity to connect and encourage the whole community to try and do their best. For me, this has to be one of the most important parts of leadership, and with the current restrictions due to COVID-19 it has been hard to connect and share with the community. This however has forced me to find innovative ways to support the community.
JUNIOR SCHOOL SWIMMING CARNIVAL
YEARS 7-12 SWIMMING CARNIVAL
SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS
TILDESLEY SHIELD TENNIS TOURNAMENT
KRB had great success at Tildesley Tennis, which is the Independent Girls' Schools Sporting Association's longest running carnival, on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July 2020 at Pymble. The original event was cancelled due to COVID-19. Fortunately, IGSSA was able to secure the Pymble Ladies’ College tennis courts to hold the event.
IPSHA SWIMMING CARNIVAL
On Wednesday 4 March, 21 Barat-Burn students competed at the IPSHA Swimming Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park. KRB students displayed many impressive individual performances with a special mention to Alba, Ines, Mila and Isla placing 3rd in the 4 x 50m freestyle relay. All students involved should be commended for the way they represented themselves and KRB.
IGSSA SWIMMING CARNIVAL
On Friday 6 March, 19 senior KRB students attended the IGSSA Swimming Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park. Alexandra Bulman, Amelia Hudson, Amelia Smith, Annabelle Waugh, Charlotte Sork, Coco Remond, Eva Smith, Georgia Sone, Hannah Ulcoq, Harriet Cassidy, Helena Hudson, Lauren Whiting, Matilda Waugh, Nita Churcher, Phoebe Challinor, Phoebe Oayda, Ruby Tonelli-Smith, Sophie St John and Zara Holt competed on the day. KRB had some outstanding individual and relay results and placed 9th overall. A special mention to some commendable individual performances:
• Annabelle Waugh 3rd in 50m freestyle
• Charlotte Sork 4th in 50m backstroke
• Georgia Sone 4th in 50m butterfly
• Ruby Tonelli-Smith 1st in 50m butterfly
• Ruby Tonelli-Smith,
Georgia Sone, Matilda
Waugh, Annabelle
Waugh 4th in 50m junior relay Congratulations to all KRB students who competed!
KRB LONG LUNCH
Guests at the Long Lunch
Guests at the Long Lunch
Vince Sorrenti with guests at at the Long Lunch
Isobelle Lynch, Anthony Minichiello and Kate Johnston at the Long Lunch
KRB’s inaugural Long Lunch, held on 2 August was a wonderful event, where the great spirit of the KRB community and their wish to support the Bursary Program were demonstrated. Guests enjoyed outstanding entertainment from Vince Sorrenti, Scot Finnie the Piano Man and ventriloquist Darren Carr. Rowan Webb, auctioneer, encouraged all guests to strongly participate in the Live Auction. Year 11 student Isobelle Lynch, a boarder from Cowra and the recipient of the Dunphy Foundation Sr Philomene Tiernan RSCJ Bursary, spoke movingly of the opportunities she is receiving at KRB. The event was a huge success financially with just over $180,000 raised for the Bursary Fund. Sincere thanks go to Kirsty Dahdah, Phoebe Malouf and Ros Koundouris whose tireless work, creativity and talent made the event a memorable one and a great success for KRB. Thanks as well to Vince Sorrenti, Scot Finnie and all the parents and friends who donated auction items. A very special thanks to Alison Smith (mother of Honor) for her fantastic design of the invitation. Thank- you as well to Malcolm Zancanaro (father of Zoe) and General Manager of the Hyatt Regency who showed much support for the event. Special thanks to our sponsors:
Platinum Sponsor • Catering Industries Gold Sponsors • Landscape Solutions • Royal Hotels • SB Property Consulting • National Australia Bank
• Solutions Property Services • General Beton
Silver Sponsors • Fugen Constructions • Joseph Dahdah & Co • Gunlake Concrete
• RTG
• BVN
• ASI Solutions
• Peter Warren Automotive
THE MARY SHANAHAN RSCJ OAM SCHOLARSHIP
Mary Shanahan rscj OAM, the Governor of NSW Margaret Beazley, AC, QC & the Hon Justice Natalie Adams (1983)
Mary Shanahan rscj OAM, Eloise North Year 12 2020) & Jon North
In 2019 the School was delighted to hear that Sister Mary Shanahan rscj OAM had been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to education and to mentoring young people. To acknowledge this, over 200 guests attended a celebratory Cocktail Party on 12 September. Guest speaker, the Hon Justice Natalie Adams (KRB ’83), recalled movingly and with some humour her time as a student when “Shan” was principal at Sancta Sophia College. Year 11 student Eloise North shared her views as to how Sister Shanahan has made an impact on the lives of KRB students. She spoke of the Assembly when the Medal to Sister Shanahan was acknowledged. “Everyone rose to their feet and cheered because we know just how much Sister Shanahan means to our community and how lucky we are to have her living among us.” During the evening we launched the Mary Shanahan rscj OAM Scholarship, established to provide a perpetual means tested scholarship to a day student, for entry to KRB in Year 10 or Year 11 for the duration of the student’s education. The Scholarship covers all tuition fees. Mary spoke of the importance of the scholarship:
"My wish is for the Scholarship to be awarded to a student who can learn who she is and accept the gifts she has and thus gain a great deal from her education at KRB.”
To ensure the Scholarship remains in perpetuity as a legacy to Sister Shanahan, we aim to raise $750,000. By June 2020 and due to the generosity of our KRB community we have received donations of $500,000. This enabled the School to advertise the scholarship for a student for 2020. Grace Hardman, Year 11 2020 was selected from a strong field of candidates.
Mary Shanahan rscj OAM with Bernadette & Terence Tobin
Mary Shanahan rscj OAM, with Sandy Dawson, Alex Hunter & Alethea Flynn
Mary Shanahan rscj OAM with Caroline Ryan & Phoebe Malouf
Grace Hardman & Mary Shanahan rscj OAM
"I am most looking forward to being mentored by Sister Shanahan and developing a relationship with her. Sister Shanahan is admirable in her way of making everyone who comes across her path feel welcome and special. I believe she is like the spiritual backbone running through the school community, and that every member of that community knows that she would be there for them at any time. I hope to grow in many different ways through her." The past six months have already been beneficial to Grace, during her online learning. "My mentoring experience with Sister Shanahan has already benefited and supported me in so many ways. I feel honoured and grateful to have the opportunity to receive her wisdom. Some of the topics we have spoken about are career paths, managing stress and school life - I even borrowed a couple of her books to help me with a Religion assignment. I feel I have already grown in many different ways through her. In all, Sister Shanahan’s endearing and wise words have made me look forward to our meetings with much enthusiasm." We are continuing to seek support for the Scholarship to ensure that it remains in perpetuity. If you would like to make a donation or to find out more about the Scholarship, please contact Ben Sarson, Development Manager sarsonb@krb.nsw.edu.au or 02 9388 6043 or Mary Cook, Director of Advancement & Community, cookm@krb.nsw.edu.au or 02 9388 6024.
Jean Marie Flynn Year 12 Learning Hub
CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS
AN ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH TO FLOURISH
The past ten years have seen much development on the KRB campus. All developments align with the Sacred Heart Goal “The Building of Community as a Christian Value.” These have provided buildings that enable community and connection, along with a strong emphasis on teaching and learning. The major development, the Maureen Tudehope Centre, was opened in June 2011. The MTC has provided us with wonderful opportunities to meet as an entire school and for students to develop their abilities in sport, music, drama and dance. The School Board and Principals of Kincoppal–Rose Bay School have continually focused on developing facilities to provide a learning environment where students can grow in every aspect of their learning, develop leadership skills, feel connected to each other and explore their curiosities and interests. In the Senior School, five of the Learning Spaces have been refurbished as open plan areas so that whole year groups can come together. Each also contains a common gathering for students to connect with each other. The Philomene Tiernan rscj Learning
The First Swim, Blann Family Swimming Pool, Maureen Tudehope Centre
Café 135
Centre, opened in 2015 for Year 11 students, is an example of this. The most recent Senior School development, the Jean Marie Flynn Year 12 Learning Hub, is providing Year 12 students with a collaborative learning area where they develop independence and resourcefulness and where they can prepare effectively for the transition from school to a tertiary environment. Community is central to KRB and the Café 135, opened in 2017, provides a wonderful gathering space for students, staff and parents. Chapel Square is another community space which connects the Senior School and the Junior School and is an historical space for reflection. The focus of much of the building program has been to create a 21st century learning environment within an historical campus, to re-purpose current buildings and look at ways that they can be redeveloped.
The Philomene Tiernan rscj Learning Centre
Chapel Square
Overall view of the Junior School Masterplan
Our next major development is the Junior School Masterplan, which will foster the education, curiosity, creativity and all-round growth of the Barat-Burn girls and boys. It will be a landmark centre which will enable and facilitate contemporary learning and teaching for our girls and boys. The first stages of the Masterplan were the building of Sophie’s Cottage, opened in 2016 and the new Barat-Burn Administration area, opened in 2017. The new Junior School will reflect the future world our students will enter. It will be a purpose-built environment which will provide each child with the opportunity to learn through experience and enquiry. A place where they will collaborate, work on real world projects, grow in confidence and gain the knowledge and skills to transform their world.
Barat-Burn is fortunate in its beautiful setting overlooking the Harbour. The serenity and beauty of the harbour location gives our young people an aesthetic appreciation that will carry through their lives.
Sophie's Cottage
Barat-Burn Administration
FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT
Flexible learning spaces where young students can learn and be challenged by peers in different year levels will replace classrooms that are restricted to a traditional fourwall structure.
An active learning voice will be a major feature of the new Assembly Space. It will enable our students to collaborate with other year groups, to try new things, demonstrate their creativity and express themselves through song, dance, music and drama. The Early Learning Centre, connected to Sophie’s Cottage will be a totally child centred space where children are encouraged to explore, extend their creativity and curiosity and take risks. The Library, located on three levels, will be a space for quiet reading, working together, watching videos, enjoying play activities and engaging in technological activities, including coding and robotics. It will also contain elements of the natural environment. The slide connecting each floor will reflect the importance of movement, activity and fun, always a part of learning. All of our building projects in the past ten years and before have been possible due to the generosity of our parents, alumnae and staff. Together, with your philanthropic support, we will be able to provide a Junior School learning environment where each child is given all they need to take risks, find new opportunities and grow. Enquiries: Mary Cook, Director of Advancement & Community, cookm@krb.nsw.edu.au or 02 9388 6024.
COMMUNITY EVENTS 2019-2020
The Year 12 Mothers’ Lunch in September 2018 was the first event to farewell the Year 12 Class of 2018. Sixty mothers enjoyed lunch together and 14 were acknowledged for their association of ten years or more Father Daughter Dinner as day parents or for six years as boarding parents
Junior School Father Child Breakfast
Junior School Father Child Breakfast
CELEBRATING FATHERS 2019
Six hundred and sixty fathers and daughters attended the Father Daughter dinner on Saturday 31 August 2019. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students to celebrate the special relationship between fathers and daughters. At the Dinner, nineteen fathers (pictured) who have been KRB day parents for ten years or more or boarding parents for six years or more, were acknowledged. The Junior School also celebrated Father's Day, on Friday 30 August with a special breakfast and concert.
YEAR 12 MOTHERS’ & DAUGHTERS’ LITURGY & LUNCH
About seventy mothers attended the Year 12 Mothers’ and Daughters’ Liturgy and Lunch on Friday 4 September 2019, the first of the events for the Farewell to the Year 12 Class of 2019. Sue Barclay, mother of Sophie, Amy and Emily spoke movingly and with much humour about her time as a KRB parent and the gratitude she had for all day parents who had supported her and her daughters. Margaux Taylor spoke of the important role that her mother, Adrienne, has been to her and her twin sister Lara, in all their years at school.
VALE 2019
Vale Mass
Vale Lunch
On Friday 18 September 101 students from the Year 12 Class of 2019 were farewelled, beginning with a beautiful Mass in the Chapel. Every student from the Class of 2019 was recognised for the important part they have played at KRB. Year Coordinator Erica Mount highlighted some of the significant events and memories that the students shared, including retreats, overseas exchanges, sporting accomplishments and so much more.
"My hope for you as you leave KRB is to have positive and fulfilling lives, in which you continue to grow in an atmosphere of wise freedom, to develop into strong, compassionate young women who make a difference in your community and in the wider world."
There were a number of significant Awards given during the Vale ceremony. • The Sacred Heart Award was presented to Head Girl Ella Cusack.
Ella’s steadfast nature and her calm and capable approach to all that she does have been inspiring for those around her.
• The Peg Magoffin Memorial
Trophy recipient was Margaux
Taylor. Margaux was highly regarded by staff and her peers as being caring, genuine and selfless, always placing the needs of others before her own.
• The Patricia Bowyer Award for
Commitment to Service –
Grace Wong
• The Sister Sarah Simpson Award for commitment to Sacred Heart education – Morgan Lok Sang Yuen
• The Archbishop of Sydney Award for Student Excellence –
Ella Cusack • The Mother Dorothy McGuinness
Award for contribution to the spiritual life of the School –
Charlotte Squire and Fiona Martin
• The Katrina Dawson Foundation
Prize – Isabel Byrnes
• Reverend Mother Febronie
Vercyrusse Award for resilience and persistence –
Laeticia Pajanacci
• Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne
Award for personal growth –
Kimika Uehara
• The Mother Alix de Kerever Award for contribution to boarding –
Iris Zhang
• The Mother Rose Dunne Award for personal growth –
Eden Domingues
Vale 2020
Blue Ribbon Award Recipients
Vale Year Scholar Award Recipients
Peg Magoffin Memorial Trophy recipient, Margaux Taylor with Adrienne & Mitchell Taylor & Maureen Ryan
Sacred Heart Award recipient, Ella Cusack with Rob & Kirsty Cusack & Maureen Ryan
PRINCIPAL’S ROAD TRIP
Principal’s Road Trip
In August 2019 the Principal Maureen Ryan, Director of Boarding Anne-Maree Bennett and Head of Woodward House, Sarah Metcalfe, ventured to the North Western regions of NSW to witness the impact of the drought on KRB Boarding families and their communities. They navigated their way through Moree, Walgett, Tamworth, Nundle, Bellata, Gurley, Scone and were amazed by the generosity and hospitality of families, despite the fact so many families were struggling with the many implications of the drought.
SANDWICHES & SONG 2019
Mary Cavanagh, (Curtin, K ‘49), Ann Palmer (K ’46) & Helen Malloy (Oxenham, K ’49)
Margaret Rozea (Sherwood, RB ’65), Denise Dunphy (RB ’65), Jane Cook (RB ’65) & Anne-Marie Carrigan (Fingleton, RB ’65)
Annie Dwyer (Fowler, RB ’69) Shirley O’Shea MBE (McAllister, K ’38) & Mary Shanahan rscj OAM
Sandwiches and Song, the annual event to celebrate the alumnae who left Kincoppal and Rose Bay fifty years ago or more, was held on Monday 21 October. This event, organised jointly by the Advancement & Community Office and the Sacré Coeur Association, is a very special one which enables the alumnae from many years to come together, renew friendships and share their memories of their school days.
Rose Bay Class of 1957
A special feature of this year’s lunch was a panel of speakers, facilitated by author, alumna and Board member, Suzie Daniel (Leary, ‘79). Patricia Horsley (RB '48), Pam McGaw (Punch, K ’60) and Denise Dunphy (RB ’65) gave some wonderful insights about their special memories of school and the reasons they had always wished to remain connected and supportive of the School.
YEAR 6 MASS & GRADUATION
Year 6 Graduation Mass
Year 6 2019
Mia Perry with her parents Angela & Alex
Milana Marsh with her parents Krissy & John
The Year 6 Mass and Graduation Ceremony was a special opportunity to acknowledge all Year 6 students and to farewell the boys who were leaving KRB.
2020 P&F COCKTAIL PARTY
The P&F Executive Committee organised a wonderful Cocktail Party on 22 February 2020, where over 450 guests gathered on the Harbour Terrace to catch up with friends and meet new families. A number of new parents expressed their gratitude for the welcome they received and the willingness of our parents to ensure they felt part of this special community.
CELEBRATING GRANDPARENTS
Year 5 & 7 Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Morning
Year 5 & 7 Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Morning
The Year 5 and 7 Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Morning, held in February 2020, was a very happy occasion where 250 visitors enjoyed seeing the School, having morning tea in Chapel Square and spending time with their grandchildren. The visitors participated in learning activities in the Junior School and joined in a Maths Class in the Senior School. As well they visited the chapel for a Liturgy.
CONNECTING WITH OUR COMMUNITY IN COVID-19
Kincoppal Zoom Gathering
Zoom Gathering, Class of 1981
Connecting with the KRB community during COVID-19 has required us to look at different ways in which we can support each other and ensure that all our community – students, parents, RSCJ, alumnae and past parents – feel connected and engaged in all we are doing. Letters of support and providing updated news of the School have been sent to our alumnae and past parents. A number have shown interest in being assisted with online gatherings. Liz Shiell (Smith, 1981) initiated the first gathering at the end of April and many others followed.
ELC Grandparents’ Morning
To maintain connections and to support our families during this time, we have also set up the KRB Business Directory, where families can advertise their business on our school portal. We have been delighted with the many positive responses that we have received through our communications: "It is great that we are able to keep in touch in KRB. I am enjoying my time at home reading doing some home rents. Hope all is well at KRB." (Alumna) We continued to provide many opportunities to connect with our parents and relatives during the past two terms.
The ELC Grandparents’ Online Gathering on 16 June enabled the grandparents and special friends of the ELC children to experience a special concert performed by the
ELC Grandparents’ Morning
ELC Grandparents’ Morning
three groups of ELC children. "Thanks to all at KRB for its recent timely, thoughtful and reassuring message. We regularly walk along the Rose Bay promenade as part of our exercise regime and it’s so reassuring to gaze up at the Convent of the
Sacred Heart which has stood sentinel for so many years, from 1882 throughout two world wars and other historic episodes, and know that it will survive and thrive."
(Past Parent)
#KRBBusinesses
CELEBRATING MOTHERS 2020
Celebrating mothers 2020
Celebrating mothers 2020
Celebrating mothers 2020
Mother's Day at KRB was celebrated in a very different way in 2020, due to COVID-19.
The School and the Parents’ & Friends’ Association, along with some very creative parents prepared a number of “special things” for mothers, grandmothers and significant women. These included • An online Mother’s Day Stall
• Videos, poems and stories prepared by students in different year groups
• A 'inspirational booklet' given to every student to prepare something for his/ her mother or carer
Many mothers expressed their gratitude for the efforts of their children and the School to make the day a special and memorable one.
PRINCIPAL’S GATHERINGS
Many parents from Sophie’s Cottage to Year 11 attended one of three Principal’s Gatherings online, to meet the Principal and members of the School Leadership Team. These were held to replace the second Principal’s Dinner and to ensure that our new parents feel that they are a part of KRB and that their contribution and voices are valued.
The parents at these gatherings provided us with feedback concerning their own experiences in working from home with small children and how we as a School provided remote learning to all ages. They particularly appreciated the contact that many of their children had received through phone calls from their teachers.
KRB ALUMNAE
Joy Ho (1982)
Kathryn Prothero (2001)
We are proud of our alumnae who are working and studying in a wide range of professions. Some who are working in medicine are making an outstanding contribution, both in regional NSW and in the city.
JOY HO (1982)
In 2020, Phoebe (Joy) Ho, was awarded an AM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for significant service to medical research, haematology, and professional bodies. Joy is Clinical Professor at the University of Sydney and Senior Staff Specialist in Haematology at the Institute of Haematology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) Sydney. Joy joined the Institute of Haematology RPAH and Centenary Institute in 1998. Her focus on cancer research has made an enormous difference to the lives of many. Her research spans the fields of myeloma and thalassemia, focusing on therapies in both these diseases. She is a past President of the Haematology Society of Australia and New Zealand (2013–2015), and an invited member of the Education Committee, International Myeloma Society, the International Members’ Committee of the American Society of Hematology, and the International Myeloma Working Group.
KATHRYN PROTHERO (2001)
“Currently I am an Operational Nurse Unit Manager in the emergency department at St Vincent’s Hospital. This job entails running the department on a day to day basis, ensuring that every patient is cared for appropriately in a professional and caring manner, and ensuring the efficient management of the department needs." During the initial phase of COVID-19 there were many challenges, not just from a department standpoint but as an individual. Many staff including myself were concerned about being infected and potentially infecting family and friends. It brought a new complexity to the workplace in terms of safety and appropriate management for patients potentially infected with COVID-19. There were massive amounts of change to the everyday operation of the department and these changes happened rapidly. It was my job to ensure that these new policies were correctly executed to maintain the safety for all staff and patients.
I am proud to be a nurse and am proud of the dedication and commitment that we have all undertaken to ensure that everyone is cared for with compassion and dignity.”
Alice Marsh (2010)
Anna Fernon (2011)
ALICE MARSH (2010)
Since graduating from KRB in 2010, Alice has completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate Doctor of Medicine, both at the University of Sydney. She met her fiancé, Benjamin Needham, while studying medicine and they will be celebrating their wedding in October this year. Alice is passionate about rural health and empowering women in medicine. “My education at KRB taught me that I could achieve anything I put my mind to. I vividly remember attending a ‘Women in Leadership’ evening at KRB as a student, and being inspired by the alumnae on the panel who had pursued a variety of careers. Being exposed to those sorts of role models definitely helped to shape my future”.
ANNA FERNON (2011)
“This year, I am working as a Medical Registrar (Basic Physician Trainee) at The Prince of Wales Hospital and Sydney Hospital, and earlier this year I was seconded to Shellharbour Hospital for three months. While we have been lucky to keep COVID-19 case numbers low in NSW, this pandemic has still had wide-reaching impacts on our patients. Some examples are quite visible, such as less access to faceto-face consultations with doctors (which is especially challenging for non-English speaking people) as well as suspended or delayed surgeries and diagnostics tests. Other examples are less noticeable, such as many elderly people having fewer visits from friends and family, and some community-nurses and other community supports being temporarily cancelled. This has led to many hospital admissions that under normal circumstances could have been avoided. Loneliness is more of a concern than ever, and I hope that we can all keep an eye out for our neighbours and elderly relatives especially this year. "At times there have been shortages of personal protective equipment, including masks, hand sanitiser, and even toilet paper in the hospital. When the pandemic was first breaking out overseas, I was worried that I was going to have to make decisions about which patients would have access to potentially life-saving treatments and which would not. Fortunately, we have not had to face that situation, so I want to thank every person who has made personal sacrifices to help flatten the curve.”
Sophie Dawson (2011)
Philippa Harrison (2013) on her graduation day with her father Richard Harrison
SOPHIE DAWSON (2011)
“Over the last four years, I have lived in Wagga Wagga where I completed medical school and went on to become a junior medical officer. My journey to regional NSW first began in Year 12 when a KRB family from Wagga Wagga invited me to the Picnic Races. In the third year of my degree I was given the opportunity of working and studying there and have fallen in love with this community. Working in a regional town offers vast experiences and challenges as we work without many of the resources available in large metropolitan hospitals. Nevertheless, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital is a large 325 bed referral hospital and offers most of the specialist services provided in the larger cities. It is a great privilege to provide healthcare to patients in Wagga Wagga and the wider Murrumbidgee area and I hope to continue practising within rural NSW once I have finished my physician training.”
PHILIPPA HARRISON (2013)
"I very fondly look back on the close boarding community and how fun and special it was to be able to live with your closest friends and grow into adulthood together. At KRB I made friendships that I will cherish for life.
After graduating at the end of last year, I started my first year as a junior doctor at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital in February. It has certainly been a very memorable time to enter the health-care workforce, especially beginning my first term in the Emergency Department. I certainly felt like I hit the ground running, but we have been very well supported, I have learnt a lot, and have had a lot of fun! I’ve also made sure I’ve found time to stay creative at the moment I am back to drawing portraits again!"
Artwork of Sophie Taggart
Alice Brenac, Sophie Barclay, & Lucy Scott
SOPHIE TAGGART (GIULIANO, 1995) AUSTRALIAN ENERGY ARTIST
"I studied Mechanical Engineering at uni and worked as an engineer until I went on maternity leave. My introduction to painting came when I met an interior designer who commissioned me to paint for her. Last year I held my largest solo exhibition, called 'Whisper' which showcased artworks based on people’s answers to the following question - 'If tonight you could whisper in your child’s ear and they would FOREVER believe it to be true, what would you whisper?’ At first, when COVID-19 started to shut everything down I thought who on earth will buy art now? My cousin phoned me in those early days and said "Soph, I have been wanting to ask you for ages - can you do me a painting?’ I was really surprised, but this allowed me to shift out of fear and into possibility. To stay in this space I painted an artwork for our home that read "What if this coronavirus was a gift, what if it gave us the connection, joy, abundance, time and space we have been wanting?" In these last few months, my studio is piled with canvases waiting their turn to be painted!"
SOPHIE BARCLAY (2019)
“After leaving the school gates, I still feel very much connected to the school community. KRB was not just a ’thing’ in my life, it was an opportunity that brought me friendships, memories, experiences and connections."
Despite the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the world, I am still completing my gap year in the UK. I am working at a prep school in Surrey. We were given the choice to remain in the UK and work at the School when needed or fly home and remain at home for the duration of the year. I chose to stay here and keep working at the School with my fellow Gappers. At the moment we are assisting and supervising key worker children at the School until it is clear for all students to return. Regardless of the pandemic I am still thoroughly enjoying my gap year in the UK. It has been a completely new experience for me and one that I am loving.“
SACRÉ COEUR ASSOCIATION
WHAT MAKES A KRB STUDENT FLOURISH?
“What advice would you give to young people to help them to find their passion? Lucy Chubb (Year 12) asked Dr Mirna Hunter (2006) at International Women’s Day in March.
It was a great question and Mirna gave a great response: Limit distractions (including mobile phones), take time to really reflect on your experiences and pay attention to what is meaningful so you can choose your own path (or risk going down a path someone else chooses for you).
Wise words. The theme of this edition of Open Gate explores a related question - What makes a KRB student flourish?
The goals of a Sacred Heart education (learning, faith, community, social justice, personal growth) coupled with the physical beauty of the KRB campus provide a solid foundation.
But it is the sense of belonging, strength of the KRB community and the spirit of Cor Unum, that the Sacré Coeur Association strives to promote beyond the school gates, which enables students, past, present and future, to really flourish.
CONNECTING
During COVID-19 many alumnae found new and fun ways to connect and expand their KRB communities using Zoom, Houseparty, FaceTime, Whatsapp and Facebook groups and LinkedIn.
You can connect and stay up to date with the broader KRB alumnae and community through Instagram and Facebook; expand your professional network through the LinkedIn group KRB Connect; and promote and support KRB community businesses through the KRB Business Directory.
Website: https://www.krb.nsw.edu. au/2026/our-school/our-community/ past-students/
INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK LINKEDIN
@krbschool @krbalumnae KRBConnect
The Sacré Coeur Association Committee met via Zoom in April and June – a first for the Association in its 100 year history. 2019/20 Committee: Julie Ringler (1980, President), Georgina Senes (1994, VicePresident), Jan Eldershaw (1974, Treasurer and Secretary), Marea Coutts (1984, Public Officer), Liz Clunies-Ross (1984), Edwina Considine (1979), Libby Dammann (1977), Shauna Laverty (1988), Sarah Mullan (1988), Tracey Parrelli (1984), Edwina Renton (1984), Sister Esmey Herscovitch (RSCJ Liaison)
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
An inspiring alumni and parent panel discussed ‘Why the Future is Feminine’ on the eve of International Women’s Day in March. A spirited conversation covered everything from workplace gender equality progress and challenges to mental health, finding passion and climate change.
Thank you to our panellists for sharing their insights and their personal stories with passion and candour, and to Rebecca Gorman (1982, Past Parent, Regenerative Beef Farmer and former ABC Journalist and Foreign Correspondent) for her warm and incisive moderation.
• Sian Cook (KRB parent) Managing
Partner, M&C Saatchi
• Suzanne Daniel (1979) Journalist,
Author of Allegra In Three Parts,
KRB Board Member
• Mirna Hunter (2006) Medical doctor training to lead & manage hospitals of the future
• Libby Lyons (Sacré Coeur 1979)
Director, Workplace Gender
Equality Agency • Tom O’Brien (Barat Burn 2005) Design Consultant at IBM iX
• Ella Pinkerton (2018) University student studying Science (Ecology)/Social Research and
Policy at UNSW
The Sacré Coeur Association collaborated with KRB P&F and the School to host International Women’s Day.
KRB CITY2 SURF TEAM RUNS FOR WOMEN FOR THE WORLD
"KRB was at its best on Sunday morning 10 August. The gate was lit up by red and white supporters, balloons and Sister Shanahan's cheers. It was an extraordinary feeling to be a part of. I was a very proud KRB girl in that moment. And I was even prouder knowing that we were all there supporting such an empowering movement, Women for the World." Megan Fitzgerald, Head Girl 2016.
The 120 strong City2Surf team was led by Megan Fitzgerald (2016) and Team Manager Justine Chubb (1986). Sister Mary Shanahan rscj OAM was the team ambassador and joined families and boarders who provided a rousing welcome and BBQ at the KRB gates. Thank you to the incredibly talented Sam Gazal (1984) for the heart mascots, which featured on ABC News.
Caritas’ WFTW was founded by KRB parents (Michelle Fernon, Alison Green and Nicole Murphy) to empower marginalised women and bring positive change to marginalised communities.
Year 12 2019 students Ella Hannon & Ella Cusack
Panel at Sandwiches & Song
WELCOME TO THE SACRÉ COEUR ASSOCIATION - CLASS OF 2019
Welcoming Year 12 to the Sacré Coeur Association is a highlight for the Sacré Coeur Association Committee. It was held in the newly opened Jean Marie Flynn Year 12 Learning Hub, which is an incredible space.
It was a pleasure to meet our youngest alumnae who are such an impressive group of young women.
SANDWICHES & SONG
Kincoppalians and Rose Bay Convent alumnae who have left school fifty years or more are honoured guests at Sandwiches and Song.
More than 110 alumnae enjoyed morning tea in Chapel Square with granddaughters, nieces and student relatives; a beautiful liturgy in the Chapel with all three school songs sung; 'sandwich' lunch in the MTC and 'song' by talented Year 11 student soloists. They enjoyed a nostalgic day catching up with friends and sharing memories with student leaders, KRB Leadership Team and the Committee.
There was also a panel discussion facilitated by Suzie Daniel (1979). It was fascinating to hear Patricia Horsley (Rose Bay 1947), Denise Dunphy (Rose Bay 1965) and Pam McGaw (Punch, Kincoppal 1960) speak about their school days and the different ways they have stayed connected with, and given back, to Kincoppal–Rose Bay.
ADVENT CAROLS AND READINGS
This truly beautiful, meaningful and memorable Advent Celebration was held in the KRB Chapel on 30 November. The Sacré Coeur Association was proud to be part of this unique collaborative event with Sydney Youth Orchestras, Gondwana Choirs, Kincoppal–Rose Bay School and KRB P&F.
Thank you to Chris North, Sydney Youth Orchestras, Story Creative, the singers and KRB for all their support to ensure a remarkable evening for all.
COVID-19 UPDATE
COVID-19 led to the cancellation of SCA events since March (Card Day, Memorial Mass, Professional Services Networking event and AGM). The Sacré Coeur Association is working with the School to reschedule when possible.
THANK YOU
Thank you to KRB for its support of the Sacré Coeur Association and KRB alumnae, the Sacred Heart family who have supported SCA events and the fantastic SCA Committee. It has been an honour to serve as President of the Sacré Coeur Association.
Julie Ringler (1980) President
