GIRLS BOARDING FACELIFT
Behind the fresh new look
BECOMING ROUND SQUARE
Embracing holistic education
A FUTURE WITHOUT ATAR
Recognising more than just academic achievement
OUR JUNIOR JOURNALISTS
Encouraging the love of writing
ALUMNI SUCCESS STORIES
Ex-students reaching new heights
Dear Readers,
Schools are not defined by their buildings and infrastructure, however important they may seem; it is the people within who make them ‘tick’. In this edition we’re celebrating the contributions of so many wonderful individuals to the life of our school. You’ll meet the dedicated members of our School Council past and present, as well as the amazing volunteers of our P&F Association who have been driving the renewal of our community’s social connections. You’ll meet Junior School teacher, Lachlan Barrett who has formed ‘Junior Journalists’ and is inspiring a new generation of communicators.
Then there’s creative powerhouse and children’s author, Tim Harris, whose role as our first-ever ‘Writer-in-Residence’ is providing inspiration to even the most reluctant readers and writers. You’ll also meet some of our newest recruits and catch up with the achievements of some impressive current and past students.
As always, we’d love to hear from you if you have a story to contribute to a future edition.
Happy reading,
Jennifer Divall Head of Marketing and CommunicationsCredits
Publisher Kinross Wolaroi School 59-67 Bathurst Road Orange NSW 2800 (02) 6392 0300
reception@kws.nsw.edu.au
Editor Jennifer Divall
Head of Marketing & Communications
Alumni Relations
Events and Alumni Officer (02) 6392 0300 ex-students@kws.nsw.edu.au
Journalism
Skye Manson
Hannah Sparks
Photography
Laura Cole
Graham Schumann
Jodi Towns
Jen Hill
Co-ordination & Design
Jen Hill
Printing
GK Craig Printing
Contributions
Reader contributions are welcomed. Please forward to jhill@kws.nsw.edu.au
Front cover: Year 7 Camp
Back cover: Junior School Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea Performance
Above: Boarder’s Breast Cancer Fundraising Bake Sale
Kinross Wolaroi School is a school of the Uniting Church in Australia
Dr Parry with Windermere School Headmaster, Mr Tom Hill and Windermere Head of Round Square, Ms Claire Holmes.
Gordonstoun
Bust of Kurt Hahn at Gordonstoun School
Gordonstoun School Aerial home of Round Square
Dr Parry with Felstead School’s Headmaster, Mr Chris Townsend and Director of Global Education, Mr Daniel Emmerson.
Prior to our mid-year vacation, I took the opportunity to take a few weeks sabbatical leave to examine how a number of leading British Independent Schools express the Round Square philosophy through their holistic educational offerings.
Round Square schools share a commitment beyond academic excellence, to personal responsibility through service, challenge, adventure and international understanding.
Round Square is an internationally diverse network of 230 like-minded schools in 50 countries on six continents that connect and collaborate to offer world-class programs and experiences, developing global competence, character, and confidence in our students. Round Square schools understand the strong link between character education and academic success. We also share the belief in the immense value of a holistic education where we provide experience deliberately structured to develop the whole person. We are so fortunate to live and work in a wonderful regional centre with such beauty and a strongly engaged community, but to prepare students for the future, we must also help them understand the wider world in which they live. Round Square provides us with a framework to enhance our focus and brings together many of the philosophies and values we already possess.
The three schools visited were Gordonstoun School in Scotland, Windermere School in the Lakes District and Felsted School, situated one hour northeast of London, each sharing many similarities and possessing distinct differences. Each are located in beautiful regional settings, are K-12
co-educational day and boarding schools who have implemented Round Square to best meet the specific needs and advantages of their unique contexts. The opportunity to explore and examine the Round Square experience in Schools who have much in common with our setting and who have established programs that offer world class experiences afforded me many valuable insights that will enrich our offering for the students of Kinross Wolaroi. Observing these schools in operation, and meeting with principals, staff and students enabled me to see many excellent initiatives and further establish our global network and relationships, all of which will evolve into exciting opportunities.
Each school’s magnificent geographic setting provided wonderful opportunities for adventure, meaningful ‘hands on’ service activities, experiential learning, student leadership and international engagement.
At Gordonstoun School, the curriculum is based on four educational principles inspired by the teachings of its founder, Kurt Hahn: challenge, responsibility, service and internationalism. Students engage in service activities that play an important role in the local community, such as being part of the school’s Fire Brigade where students are on-call to attend to fires in nearby towns. Sea Rescue is another function they fulfil. Among the challenges and adventures Gordonstoun students experience is the Sea Voyage, where small groups sail and navigate an 80ft yacht for ten days taking full responsibility for the vessel’s course and function out at sea.
Windermere School is situated in the World Heritage Lakes District of North-West England and takes full advantage of its glorious setting. Adventure, internationalism, and placebased learning are very strong elements
of their offering. Like our TREE program, contextual hands-on learning experiences feature prominently in their curriculum. All students engage in demanding adventure experiences that see them hiking and camping throughout the National Heritage area and a significant proportion of their student body come from overseas.
Felsted offers programs very similar to the Kinross Wolaroi experience. A very strong co-curricular program, a cadet unit, an extensive sport offering of competitive games, a popular Duke of Edinburgh Award program and an array of meaningful service opportunities.
Global education is a key focus at Felsted. Students engage in an extensive exchange program with other Round Square schools around the world, participate in the Model United Nations, and undertake international service projects. Each year the school stages a significant International summer school that attracts several hundred students from around the globe.
Observing how the IDEALS of Round Square are implemented across a selection of schools that have forged strong reputations for their leading educational offerings has been of enormous value: it has clearly demonstrated the diverse experiences that can be created to optimise the advantages of one’s individual context. Our own unique environment offers so many opportunities for the development of a wonderfully rich, challenging and rewarding Round Square program that will add depth and meaning to every Kinross Wolaroi student’s educational experience.
I am greatly looking forward to continuing our relationship with each of these schools and to enhancing our rich and diverse offering at Kinross Wolaroi School.
recently read the following quote from 19th Century American essayist and philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson: “No member of a crew is praised for the rugged individuality of his rowing.” How well our rowers, football players, and every person on a team knows this to be true.
It is not just people that work together and alongside each other. At a recent School Council Strategy Day, we considered the fabric of our buildings, and even how the placement of current and future
buildings affects the very sense of what the School is and how it works as a whole. Not one building, or one tree, or one directional sign can be considered in isolation without acknowledging the things and people that make up the whole and interact with each other.
As true as this is for both people and buildings, so it is true for finance, strategy, the environment, and the many aspects that the School Council considers throughout the year, and indeed, over the years.
To achieve this work in a balanced and considered way, we need to have a
Council of skilled and committed people, and I would again like to acknowledge the time that is given and the skill that is put to work by each member of Council –all in a voluntary capacity.
As this edition of the Chronicle reflects on the ‘Humans of Kinross Wolaroi’, we want to focus on four of those individuals who have recently stepped down from their roles as members of the School Council. Each one has contributed significantly to the good governance of the School over many years.
Council Member - March 2005 to November 2021 (16 years)
Paul was outstanding in providing advice to the School’s Executive around child and adolescent health, especially in the area of mental health. His contribution at the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic was invaluable and helped guide the School in the early stages of the global pandemic. Paul even took time to speak with the School staff about COVID-19, the value of which was hard to overstate.
In addition to this, Paul served the School’s Cadet Corps as the medical support for a significant number of camps. Paul has one remaining child at the School (Max, 11/2022) and his other three children also attended – Josie (Class of 2015), Eva (Class of 2017), and Owen (Class of 2020).
Paul was the Convenor of the Policy & Planning Committee for many years.
Council Member - April 2013 to February 2021 (8 years)
Andrew provided the Council with tremendous legal knowledge and his outstanding business and practical background. Andrew was constantly sought after for his advice on challenging management issues and his support for the Executive was outstanding.
Andrew’s three children have all graduated – Nicola (Class of 2015), India (Class of 2017), and Harry (Class of 2020).
Council Member - April 2015 to August 2021 (6 years)
Deputy Chair of Council - April 2016 to April 2020 (4 years)
Dan’s communications background helped him make an invaluable contribution to supporting the School when expert public affairs advice was required. As Deputy Chair, Dan was a tremendous sounding board for Christine McIntosh during her time as Chair.
Dan’s three sons have all graduated –George (Class of 2015), Charlie (Class of 2017), and Angus (Class of 2021).
Council Member - March 2018 to February 2022 (4 years)
Caroline’s contributions fell into two main areas – policy and procurement. Caroline supported significant improvements in the School Council and operational policy spheres and also helped support significant improvement to our procurement policies. She also made a tremendous contribution to the Uniform Committee as Council Representative, helping to land a very difficult process with an outstanding result.
Caroline’s two daughters have both graduated – Maddy (Class of 2019) and Annabella (Class of 2021).
Caroline was the Convenor of the Policy & Planning Committee for several years.
The members of our School Council have responsibility for the overall governance of the School and supervise school policies and procedures as well as managing risk and protecting assets. Members of the Council have a variety of skills relevant to their governance role. They apply their expertise to ensure that Kinross Wolaroi School is governed wisely. The Council meets on a regular basis and has a number of sub-committees. Members’ roles are voluntary and they contribute significantly to the ongoing viability of our school. The following new members were appointed in 2022.
Dr Radha SrikanthDr Radha Srikanth loves caring for young people. She is the Clinical Director of Infant, Child, Youth and Family Mental Health Services in the Western NSW Local Health District and a Child Psychiatrist. The mother of two Kinross Wolaroi School students has spent her profession actively involved in clinical work, research, education and management roles within health services across four countries. It was perhaps the fact that Dr Srikanth grew up in a family of teachers that convinced her to join the School Council. “I have always held education and educators in high regard and wanted to contribute back to its continued growth,” said Dr Srikanth. Dr Srikanth saw the School Council as the perfect opportunity to combine her passion for education while supporting wellbeing at the School. “The pandemic has reiterated the importance of supporting the psychological and emotional wellbeing of children, and that schools have a large role in creating a positive impact,” said Dr Srikanth.
Reverend Alan Robinson began life at Young, NSW. After completing school in the regional town, Mr Robinson trained as a wool classer and worked on the family farm for six years. He then moved to Newcastle to begin youth work for Hamilton Wesley Methodist Church. This role sparked Mr Robinson’s call to Christian ministry and lifelong appreciation of, and concern for, young people. He has served churches in Bankstown, Penrith, Chatswood and Pittwater, NSW and Beenleigh, QLD. He’s also served as Chairperson of the NSW Synod Board of Mission and as a member of the UCA Assembly’s Working Group on Doctrine. What’s more, Mr Robinson is the author and illustrator of a series of children’s picture books. In 2018, he happily retired to Orange with his wife, Sharyn. Looking for a new challenge in retirement, he was nominated as a Council Member by the NSW Synod. “The spiritual life of the School is of great importance and I feel very privileged to represent the Uniting Church on the Council,” said Rev. Robinson.
When asked to join the School Council, Katrina Sweetapple jumped at the opportunity. Katrina’s eldest son is in Year 8 at Kinross Wolaroi and her youngest will enrol in 2024. As someone who’s always valued her own schooling and university experience, Katrina is eager to help ensure current and future students continue to receive strong and varied educational opportunities. “I feel drawn to helping because the school is uniquely positioned as a provider of holistic learning experiences in a diverse, regional setting,” said Katrina. Katrina has spent more than 20 years in risk management, governance and policy, covering everything from developing contingency plans for the Sydney Olympics to reporting to company boards. She hopes to use this experience to embed a risk-informed culture at all levels of Kinross Wolaroi and encourage the School Council to be more involved in her passion project - climate change.
Paras Meates boasts an impressive resume. The commercial lawyer not only holds a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Western Australia, but also a Master of Laws from the University of London (London School of Economics) and, more recently, a Graduate Certificate in University Leadership and Management from Charles Sturt University (CSU). Mrs Meates quickly climbed the private practice career ladder after completing her undergraduate studies, becoming a Senior Associate at Norton Rose in Perth before moving to Orange in 2010. What intended to be a short-term move, became permanent when her family fell in love with the area and lifestyle. She is currently a Senior Legal Officer at CSU. In fact, it was outgoing School Council member and her then CSU colleague, Caroline Myers, who suggested Mrs Meates apply for the position. “I think my legal expertise adds to the current diversity of members on the School Council, and I hope to add value through my legal lens in areas such as policy and risk management,” said Mrs Meates. The School Council will also bring Mrs Meates closer to her children Percy (Year 7) and Vivian (Year 5) at Kinross Wolaroi.
The parent of two current students and one future student, Jock Whittle, was eager to join the School Council to use his professional experience to ensure the School continues to provide great student outcomes. The Head of Asset Performance - MIRA Agriculture at Macquarie Group has been fortunate to work in several large and complex organisations and has seen the benefit that strong governance and clear strategy bring to those organisations. “From what I have seen, the School is in a strong position with a clear strategy for the future. I see the Council’s role to ensure that the plan is delivered upon to position the School for ongoing success,” said Mr Whittle. As someone with a background in agriculture, Mr Whittle is proud to send his children to and support a regional school with a unique offering and the opportunities those create for regional families.
It’s been a busy year for the 2022 Parents & Friends Association, hosting over twenty events to help reconnect the Kinross Wolaroi School community after a couple of years apart.
This year, the P&F’s focus has been on supporting Year Group Representatives from PreKinder to Year 12 to host social events that allow families to meet and put faces to names after a long break due to COVID-19.
A breath of fresh air, P&F Year Group Rep’s are volunteers who raise their hands to help harness the voice of their respective year group and organise a year group get-together during the school year.
“These volunteers are a valuable way to hear the voices of parents across the depth and breadth of a Pre-Kinder to Year 12 boarding school,” said P&F President Sarah Glover.
“The events they’ve hosted have been very well attended and hosted at various venues and locations around Orange. There have been family picnics at lakeside parks, casual catch-ups at cafés and larger events at local hotels and restaurants. That’s 14 different groups getting together for a meet and
greet or catch-up.”
The new P&F formed in September 2021 and quickly acknowledged the need to bring the School community back together after a couple of extremely disruptive years, and the attendance at P&F events has been testament to that need and their commitment.
“The enthusiasm of the School community to support the efforts of the P&F has been very encouraging. I suspect that on the back of COVID-19 restrictions, our families were very keen for social interaction and some opportunities to meet other families,” said Mrs Glover.
On top of year group meet and greets, the P&F was also thrilled to invite the School community to attend its major fundraising and social event in early August.
“The P&F Trivia Night was selected by popular vote by the School community. It was a sell out and exceeded our expectations, both in attendance and funds raised. We had 370 members of the School community
come together for a fun and relaxed evening. This was a welcome sight not seen for a couple of years,” said Mrs Glover.
The P&F has an important role in keeping a large school with a high number of boarding students connected, but they couldn’t do it without volunteers.
“The School community is responsible for the tone and sense of pride conveyed to the students, families and the broader local community. The ultimate group who benefit from a strong, proud and connected community are our children,” said Mrs Glover.
“The School community has been incredibly supportive of the P&F, and we are very grateful to the families and the School for their generosity.”
Hear from some of the special people who raised their hand to be Year Group Representatives and what it means to them to volunteer for the School community on the following page.
the year. This helps build a sense of community and develop relationships that may last the whole 13 years of schooling, and perhaps beyond. This is especially important now, in the time after two years of COVID-19 lockdowns, with the subsequent dramatic change in the schooling experience for parents and students alike.
my involvement.
I’d like to say a big “cheers” to my fellow P&F committee - it really is wonderful to be working with you.”
“From the end of 2021, I have been a member of the P&F committee as the Junior School Representative. This involves assisting the P&F committee with organising and carrying out fundraising and friend-raising activities through the year. I also liaise with the Junior School Year Group Parent Representatives to help promote social gatherings within the year group through
I was inspired to step into this role by the wonderful group of parents in my daughter’s year at Kinross Wolaroi. Four years ago, we were a mix of experienced and new families. Everyone was welcoming and helpful, and this has continued as we have welcomed new families into the year group. We have had some great events together over the years, despite COVID-19, and I look forward to these continuing for many years to come. It is this experience that I hope we can continue to develop and foster through all year groups in both the Junior and Senior Schools.
I remember the excitement as a primary school girl (many years ago!) when my mother was involved in an event related to my school, even something small such as canteen duty. I hope my daughter feels the same about
“I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the other Year 2 parents and making wonderful friends within the Kinross Wolaroi School community.”
The P&F is run brilliantly. Communications are clear, concise and organised, with punchy Zoom meetings in the evenings held periodically throughout the year. The time requirements are not onerous at all. And in return for your involvement, you get the opportunity to work and contribute to the various initiatives rolled out by the P&F.
Each year, goals are set as to what the P&F would like to achieve for the School, so there is a very clear, motivational charter. As a team, you work together to jointly come up with initiatives to achieve the objective set for the School. This year, we hosted a trivia night as the major community fundraiser to raise $25,000 to contribute towards the refurbishment of the Performance Theatre.
“Volunteering with the P&F is a brilliant way to meet many people across the broader School community.
Once volunteering with the P&F, you are quickly exposed to a wonderful group of parents and carers from across all year groups, both in the Junior and Senior Schools.
Working on a common cause and an event, such as the trivia night, is a very easy way to form new friendships. The sense of camaraderie that is fostered amongst all of the volunteers is both enjoyable and genuinely rewarding.
It’s also a great way to contribute some of your skills back into the School
community. You might be a writer, have desktop skills, be a chef in a past life, enjoy public speaking, or have contacts you can reach out to, the list goes on. With such a cross-section of parents and carers volunteering from across the School community, collectively I’ve found we always work together to come up with great solutions and initiatives to ensure our major fundraising events are enjoyable. You might even get the opportunity to broaden your own skill set while volunteering for the P&F. This year, we used new technology to build an online raffle for the school using a QR code.
If you are considering joining the P&F, I encourage you to take the leap. It is another wonderful aspect of the KWS community you can easily be a part of. Everyone is friendly and committed to jointly delivering wonderful, meaningful initiatives for the broader community. I guarantee that in volunteering for the P&F, you’ll get more out of the experience than you put in, with wonderful new friendships formed.”
“Volunteering in the Kinross Wolaroi community is like a gift that keeps giving. I’ve met many fantastic people who I may not have crossed paths with under other circumstances, and who share the common goal of the continued improvement of our School.”
“Volunteering at Kinross Wolaroi has given me the chance to meet people across different year groups and play a small part in the P&F’s efforts to bring the School family together and actively support the committed teachers and fantastic kids. It has heightened my sense of community at the School, and I have had a lot of laughs along the way.”
“Volunteering for the School community has been a great experience. I’ve made new friends along the way while working together to help the School community.
Christina Baldwinson, Year 11 Group Representative Jo Balcomb, Year 5 Group Representative Leanne Lett, Year 5 Group Rep & Vice President
“Academic achievement is important but not the sole reason for schooling. We need to focus more on preparing the whole person, no matter what career path they choose.”1
The HSC curriculum that culminates in the ATAR has drawn considerable criticism from many educators, industry leaders and policymakers of late.
The highly-prescriptive HSC curriculum lacks flexibility and sees a student’s entire education summed up in a number out of 100. The ATAR is a limited tool that tests a student’s capacity to do well under exam conditions; it is not evaluating their full range of achievement, capacities, or the skills they learn over their 13 years of education.
The existing HSC is structured to create a measure for selection into university rather than a mind-expanding opportunity. Students are focused on optimising their ATAR score at the exclusion of developing broader capabilities for the future. Universities and businesses are increasingly bypassing ATAR scores as they are looking for an indication of a broader range of skills than what is reflected through a single score.
70 per cent of learners across the nation either do not use their ATAR for university entrance or elect not to go on to university, yet they are subjected to a narrow and inflexible curriculum and must endure a stressful, high-stakes assessment. At time of writing over 90 per cent of our 2022 Year 12 cohort have received at least one early entry offer to a university.
We need to find a better way to evaluate and reflect a student’s skills and capacities, and what they have learned while at school. I feel very positive about proposals being advanced by educators, policymakers and academics of the ATAR being replaced or supplemented with a document known as a ‘Learner Profile’.
A Learner Profile would articulate and evidence the range of skills, knowledge and experience held at the time of graduation. It is holistic in its approach and could be a means to provide a rich and detailed summary of what a student has learned, which is both flexible but enables comparison between students. Using evidence from a student’s time at school, the Learner Profile would indicate their strengths,
passions, patterns of capability and attainments. Their strengths can be highlighted, whether they be in mathematics, literature, organisational skills, ability to work collaboratively in a team, capacity for creative problem solving, entrepreneurial skills, leadership, or community engagement. These are ‘21st century skills’ and are qualities advocated for by curriculum experts and sought by recruiters desiring a more nuanced way to match candidates to opportunities in their organisations.
There is currently little visibility over the development of a student’s general capabilities. A Learner Profile can reflect skills learned outside the classroom and would broaden what is counted as school success providing a better picture of a student’s capabilities than the ATAR, which only captures skills that can be learned in the classroom and tested in exams. ‘It provides a more wide-ranging view of student achievement, and a more reliable measure of the whole person.’ 2
Despite its faults, an ATAR is supported because it is fair – everyone operates under the same parameters, it measures something relevant to higher study, and it provides a score that is not easily fudged. This sees it as a credential that is widely trusted.
• A student’s school achievement is portrayed as a single number.
• It’s highly stressful, and highly competitive and prevents schools from adopting more flexible teaching and learning models.
• The ATAR is increasingly bypassed by universities and businesses.
• It provides a narrow picture of a student’s skills, abilities, and attributes. The ATAR only captures knowledge skills of the type that can be easily learned in classrooms and tested in exams.
• It leads to subjects being studied for optimising ATAR points, rather than a student taking subjects they are passionate about or that will develop broader capabilities for their future.
Designing a Learner Profile is no simple task. We need to determine what learning is valued by society and how we assess and recognise learning. It must improve on the ATAR in representing knowledge, skills and capabilities that young people need to succeed in the future. Very importantly, the profile will only be trusted to the degree that the micro-credentials contained within the profile are trusted and that it is based upon assessments which reflect real competence.
For such a measure to be adopted, there is a great deal of work that needs to be done to ensure the Learner Profile is a trusted and equitable measure that reflects students’ skills, knowledge, attributes, and attainments.
The Learner Profile would recognise a range of verified achievements and subject-specific results. It will need to have an agreed structure and follow a rigorous process to ensure the authenticity of achievement.
The central idea behind the concept of a Learner Profile is that a student would accumulate a record of warranted micro-credentials or small chunks of learning that are guaranteed by an authority that demonstrated that the student had achieved the relevant qualities or attainments.
A micro-credential might recognise an achievement in a school certificate or vocational subjects, community service, or an award earned in co-curricular activities.
The Learner Profile can consider skills learned outside the classroom and importantly, is built up over time so that it empowers learners in a way the ATAR does not. It accommodates the fact that people learn gradually, over time, as a result of effort and commitment.
Each year, our students already work closely with our Careers Advisor and Director of Studies in preparing personal profiles which are lodged as part of their applications for early entry to university. This year, more than 90 per cent of our 2022 cohort received at least one early entry offer.
Kinross Wolaroi is presently developing its own Skills Portfolio that mirrors the credentials that would be evidenced in a comprehensive Learner Profile. Details of achievements and contributions in and out of the classroom will be included to provide a more complete picture of a student’s
skills and personal attributes. Like the Learner Profile, evidence of achievement and credentials are attained from a diverse range of areas over the student’s time at the school, and might include work experience, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, leadership experience, community service, co-curricular achievement and more.
The first steps toward a formalised learner profile are now underway. A NSW Learner Profile is currently being co-designed in partnership with the Department of Customer Service, TAFE, New South Wales Education Standards Authority, Catholic Schools NSW and the Association of Independent Schools. A prototype is now in testing that can record extra-curricular and sporting achievements, work experience, volunteering, caring responsibilities and personal interests.
I feel very positive about proposals being advanced by educators, policymakers and academics of the ATAR being replaced or supplemented with a document known as a ‘Learner Profile’.”
Dr Andrew Parry,
Every Friday lunchtime, you’ll find the Junior Journalist Team busy on their rounds, interviewing and taking photographs of staff and other students from across the Junior and Senior Schools for their fortnightly bulletin.
From teacher interviews to quizzes, top tips and even horoscopes, the Junior Journalists’ newsletter is packed to the brim.
The group was formed by Teacher Lachlan Barrett in Term 1 after seeing
how much the Junior School students love to write and realising that it would be great for them to collaborate with staff and other students across the whole campus.
“It is fun and it gives us something fun to do at lunch. I also love brainstorming with my peers about fun brainteasers we then publish,” said Junior Journalist Elizabeth Milliken.
“I like that we interview people. It is interesting to find out some fun facts about our teachers,” said Junior Journalist Kayley Lett.
There’s a new cohort of students at Kinross Wolaroi School willing to give you a penny for your thoughts.••• Back row, left to right: Mr Barrett, Arthur Mullins, Madeleine Russell, Lulu Widauer, Elizabeth Milliken
“I like interviewing people and getting pictures with them. Because of this, we then get the greatest stories around our school,” said Junior Journalist Madeleine Russell.
There are currently 12 Junior Journalists, from Kindergarten to Year 6. Together, the budding cohort produces and publishes the newslettersometimes up to nine pages long - before sending it to Mr Barrett to edit.
“We originally started printing our publication and sending it home with all families in the Junior School, to the Library and to some other special people within the School. Now, since our name is more established, our audience can access our content online via the Family Bulletin and also The Hub,” said the Junior Journalists.
This experience is helping young students develop their editorial and interviewing skills - and their talents aren’t going unnoticed, with the School’s Marketing Team asking the Junior Journalists to assist with producing social media content during the Windermere Open Day. The Junior Journalists have also been learning how to create content on their iPads and using computer coding software such as Scratch Junior.
“I like the projects we do and how fun it is to do them with my friends. I also like that I have learned new skills like airdropping photos and voice memos on the iPads,” said Junior Journalist Addie Delbridge.
“I like that we interview teachers and that we sometimes get to try different journalism platforms like the iPads,” said Junior Journalist Grace Monaghan.
The Junior Journalists’ highlight this year has been interviewing bestselling author and the School’s Writer in Residence, Tim Harris!
It’s small steps, however the Junior Journalists have high hopes, with future plans to expand into different forms of journalism through video advertisements and special star appearances on the local Orange radio. The Junior Journalist Team is always on the lookout for new recruits, from Years K-6, or the latest scoop, so don’t hesitate to get in touch. And there’s always a role for everyone - even creatives, or those who just love Mr Barrett.
“I like making posters and Mr Barrett is the best teacher,” said Arthur Mullins.
I like that we interview teachers and that we sometimes get to try different journalism platforms like the iPads.”
Grace Monaghan, Junior Journalist
Not only does this initiative show students that their school is invested in their writing for the long-term, but also we can build programs around areas we identify as the biggest needs.”
Tim Harris, Writer in Residence
Bestselling children’s book author Tim Harris has been captivating young imaginations for the past decade. Now, he’s teaching Kinross Wolaroi Junior School students how to bring their words to life as their very own Writer-in-Residence.
If you’re familiar with Toffle Towers, Mr Bambuckle’s Remarkables and Exploding Endings, you’ll know Tim Harris’ books are never short of quirky scenarios, loveable characters and plenty of imagination. The author’s fun-loving nature makes him just the person to help Junior School students learn to love writing just as much as he does.
“I try to inject humour into my presentations and workshops to make things as enjoyable as possible for the students. Children respond well when they are laughing and it often opens the floodgates for creativity. I also include a lot of opportunities for the students to share their own writing samples. This encourages the students to take the next step in regards to full ownership of their work,” he said.
Mr Harris has been working alongside Years 2-6 at the Junior School since February and will remain on board until the end of the year. He said it’s been a wonderful opportunity to develop relationships with staff and students and track students’ progress over several months.
“Not only does this initiative show students that their school is invested in their writing for the long-term, but also we can build programs around areas we identify as the biggest needs,” said Mr Harris.
Every student will have the chance to pen their own novel, while the Year 6 students will go one step further by also publishing theirs. Mr Harris said there is still a lot of work to be done but that he’s already identified several up-andcoming writers.
“There are some talented young writers across the Junior School. It was lovely reading through the students’ preassessments in February and March, and seeing the potential across the board,” said Mr Harris.
Mr Harris said it’s never too early or late to put pen to paper, having only become serious himself about writing in his early thirties.
“A decade on, I feel the more I know about writing, the more there is yet to learn. Writers can definitely be developed at a young age, particularly with the technical side of writing - all the ‘boring’ stuff such as paragraphs, punctuation and sentence structure.
Some of the students I have been working with in Sydney started my workshops when they were in Year 3 and many are now writing their own 20,000word novels just four years on. This is because they had the confidence to commit to more in-depth stories. They understand the mechanics well, so the focus can shift to character development and plot devices,” said Mr Harris.
Prior to writing and publishing children’s books, Mr Harris was a teacher of 15 years - another reason he loves being back in the classroom.
“I’m enjoying building relationships with the staff and students. This is what I miss most about teaching. Each year I visit around 100 schools, but to have consistency in a school is a lovely thing. The nature of the full-day workshops also means we can get quite nitty-gritty with some writing techniques,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone in the School community for making me feel so welcome. I’m loving the trips to Orange and working with the staff and students at Kinross. I think I’ll have to bring the whole family along at some point when the weather warms up a bit!”
We now have one of the best boarding environments in NSW in my opinion,”
Addy Nuthall, Pink Jam Trading Owner and Interior Designer
Kinross Wolaroi Head of Girls’ Boarding, Hannah Whittemore, and Pink Jam Trading Owner and Interior Designer, Addy Nuthall, spent the year renovating at PLC to show female boarders they’re invested in their future.
Ms Whittemore joined in April 2021 and could see from her first day that the girls’ boarding houses needed some work.
“The girls’ boarding site needed a squeaky wheel and someone to advocate for them; there was much needed change to the fabric of the boarding houses. Luckily, I met Addy right around the same time I started at Kinross and together, we were able to achieve really wonderful things for the girls,” said Ms Whittemore.
Ms Nuthall could also see the boarding houses were tired but was excited about the potential the renovations could have.
Over the past few months, Ms Whittemore and Ms Nuthall have worked hard through all four girls’ boarding houses, starting with the common spaces.
“We have totally renovated the Dorothy Knox Hall, from outdated and gloomy to the most warm, welcoming and special place for the girls. Common areas in Miller, Loader and New House
have been completed and we are painting, recarpeting and refurbishing all houses - breathing life back into the site,” said Ms Whittemore.
One of Ms Nuthall’s favourite areas to work on was the Dorothy Knox Hall, where old features were given a bit of love.
“It simply needed new furniture, a lick of paint, and a few minor maintenance bits. We had the beautiful old floorboards polished and painted the whole hall. We also added a fabulous kitchen with an island to seat 16 and bingo, we now have one of the best boarding environments in NSW in my opinion,” said Ms Nuthall.
These are important renovations, showing female boarders that the School is invested in them and their future.
“The renovations aim to create spaces where girls are comfortable to be themselves. Living away from home in the formative years is challenging and amazing at the same time. Our aim with the renovations is to create spaces where girls have the freedom to express themselves; baking in the many kitchens across the site, relaxing and reading a book, getting comfy on a bean bag, or watching a movie with their house,” said Ms Whittemore.
New furniture and fittings that complement each boarding house and space and an overall brightening of the spaces have been key to creating that allin-important homely feeling.
“The Dorothy Knox Hall is now a space for all of the girls to enjoy and mix with friends and other year groups. We have round tables and comfy chairs for prep/homework, big woollen rugs to warm the space and fun linen bean bags for the girls to relax on. However, the big pull is the beautiful kitchen where the girls cook, laugh and mingle. The colour pallet is a touch of pale pink with emerald green and works perfectly in this space. We have added a further touch of Kinross with a fabulous hanging of hats from the girls’ uniform, honour boards, and old rowing oars,” said Ms Nuthall.
As for the future of the girls’ boarding houses, Ms Whittemore and Ms Nuthall say they could keep finding projects for a long time to come.
“We started in September last year and have no plans on stopping any time soon,” said Ms Whittemore.
“Kinross has the most amazing spaces in the girls’ boarding, we just had to make the most of them,” said Ms Nuthall.
Dorothy Knox Hall
The renovations aim to create spaces where girls are comfortable to be themselves.”
Hannah Whittemore, Head of Girls’ BoardingDorothy Knox Hall New House
Year 9 and 10 students who were not engaged in Cadet Camp had the opportunity to undertake four days of work experience at the end of Term 1.
Work Experience is a valuable tool in a student’s Future Pathways Toolkit. It allows the opportunity to engage first hand in an occupation which they may be considering. It also allows them to network with industry and to establish links with employers and occupations.
Many of our students have found that these experiences have also led to part-time work opportunities. We recommend that students get as many ‘work’ experiences as they can before moving onto their future pathway.
On Monday 9 May 2022 the Junior School hosted a Mother’s Day and Significant Women Afternoon, inviting mothers, grandmothers and women of importance into the classroom and hosting an afternoon tea, with performances from the students. Year 6 students then led the whole community in a games afternoon they planned and executed.
Each of these events enabled our visitors to engage with the children and staff in different ways. In some cases, as a spectator and in others as active participant alongside their child!
The Performing Arts faculty had the pleasure of hosting Kinross Wolaroi’s annual Camerata Concert in the Derek Pigot Auditorium on 6 May 2022. The concert is an opportunity for our music students to showcase works they have been preparing over the year, and they did not disappoint! Supported by the formidable piano accompanying skills of Mr Luke Moxey and Mr David Shaw, the evening featured 21 student performers from years seven to twelve, showcasing the refined skill and quality of music students delighted the audience, performing works spanning various genres and instruments to a very high quality.
The School’s wonderful ensembles and Year 12 musicians entertained an appreciative audience on Thursday 9 June at the Senior School Music Festival, which featured repertoire from classical to jazz and contemporary. They were treated to an evening of outstanding performances from concert band, orchestra, stage band, string orchestra, choirs, strings and wind chamber ensembles, chapel band and soloists in a relaxed cabaret atmosphere. Bravo to our wonderful musicians!
The School’s Stage Band played to an enthusiastic and vocal audience in a packed venue at the Orange Winter Jazz Festival on 10 June. Students played an hour set featuring a range of jazz styles from trad jazz to Latin and funk. Audience members commented on the high standard of our musicians who were fabulous ambassadors for Kinross Wolaroi. Staff were very proud of their efforts.
Through leadership roles, students show and grow their skills by acting with initiative, being courageous, and reflecting on how they are leading others.”
Mrs Denise Hayward, Head of Junior School
Leadership is a responsibility and privilege the School takes seriously. Kinross Wolaroi Junior School provides leadership training and opportunities for our students. We believe it is imperative for young people to learn how to lead others effectively because at some point in our life, we all exercise leadership.
Through leadership roles, students show and grow their skills by acting with initiative, being courageous, and reflecting on how they are leading others.
Research shows us there is no such thing as ‘a born leader’, but through struggle, determination, will-power, and vision a person becomes a leader. Leadership is not about charisma or popularity. Respected leaders, while humble in their achievements, guide us down constructive paths, and by their own example, encourage us to help each other, and to set high standards
of conduct and performance. A great leader is one who motivates you to achieve success. They are an influencer who is not required to force people to follow them but due to their deeds and qualities, people follow them.
In 2022, Year 6 leadership has two layers:
• The Leadership Team consisting of Head Prefect, House Captains and Creative and Performing Arts Leaders.
• The House Portfolio Teams where each House is allocated responsibility for a range of projects and activities in line with each student’s interests and passions under the IDEALS from Round Square.
No matter what role a student has, they have the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of our school and the wellbeing of others. As leaders they fulfil a special service in the School and reflect our philosophy of a student-led learning environment.
As the oldest and most experienced students in the Junior School, our Year 6 students are role models for younger students, particularly the girls and boys in the Junior School who are beginning their school journey. It has been so encouraging to see so many of them who have commenced this journey as they guide and engage with students during break times.
The Year 6 students will have the opportunity to work with their teachers and other members of staff throughout the year as they identify and grow their skills and are encouraged to take initiative, make courageous choices and reflect on how they are leading others.
Leadership is a virtue developed and polished with time. It is art without any boundaries and limits. The more you practice, the stronger leader you become.
Head Boy & Girl
George Nash
Georgie Simpson
Brown House Captains
Amelia Lawrie
Jed Volkofsky
Brown House:
Alannah Bryan
Zoe Freeman
Pixie Harmer
Henry Quigley
Isaac Ross
Daniel Rourke
Alexandra Whitehead
Gordon House Captains
Sophie Caro
Xavier Zinga
Gordon House
Chloe Caro
Hannah Cunningham
Jude Jansen
Luca Johnson
Alexandra Karrasch
Ella Kerdic
Elliot Terrey
Charlotte Williams
Creative and Performing Arts Leaders
Lucas Choi
Natalie Hayward
McLachlan House Captains
Samuel Commins
Eliza Lord
Douglas House Captains
Ben Chambers
Nicolette Saran
Douglas House
Harry Chapman
Aurora Everett
Harry Fielding
Tom Hughes
Max Kenny
Will Stratton
McLachlan House
Lucy Baker
Harriet Blair
Harry Curtin
Vivaan Desai
Olivia Greenwood
Clancy Hazelton
Olivia McBeath
Angus Sawtell
Hunter Stacpoole
Zoe Strahorn
Aristotle, along with many others of his time, placed great emphasis on the importance of a rounded and balanced education, one that developed the whole person. Play, physical training, music, debate, community engagement, and the study of science and philosophy were all to play a vital role in forming the body, mind and soul.
The wisdom of this ancient Greek philosopher continues to be enthusiastically embraced by educators today and lies at the heart of the holistic educational philosophy at Kinross Wolaroi. During Camps Week students
embrace a myriad of activities designed for challenge and enjoyment: new experiences included camping under plastic in the outdoors, abseiling down cliff faces, service to the community, music camps and Year Group Retreats. Camps play an important role in developing the whole person, with students taken out of their comfort zone to develop new confidence and forge new friendships.
Year 7 attended camp at Lake Burrendong; the Cadet Unit bivouac was held at Top Valley Station, near Parkes; Duke of Edinburgh Award students made their Adventurous Journey at Kosciuszko National Park; and Music Camp provided a wonderful three days of outdoor activities, intensive
rehearsals, and camaraderie.
TREE organised leadership training for Years 9 and 10 in camps week. Year 9 then experienced two days of ‘Master Classes’ with courses on mountain biking, STEM, ceramics, photography, Christmas cooking, French, strength in numbers, agriculture, crochet, frisbee golf and tabletop miniatures.
Year 10 spent time at the school farm, Windermere, where they re-built the fire pit, doubled the size of the market garden, created a herb garden, devised wellbeing walks and mapped out a mountain bike track. They then spent two days developing their living skills, including sessions on careers, nutrition, body image, etiquette, dress, and the importance of developing a sense of service.
Year 7 at Lake Burrendong
Year 7 at Lake Burrendong
Year 7 at Lake Burrendong
Over Camps week students also engaged in valuable community service initiatives. Thanks to the generosity of our families and staff, students were able to create 60 gift hampers for those in need. Students also hit the school hospitality kitchen to bake gifts for the wonderful aged care workers at Uniting Care Wontama, in support of the selfless work done during COVID restrictions.
This year the school had feedback from many quarters complimenting students for their positive and enthusiastic approach during Camps Week.
The Services Manager of Uniting Wontama Aged Care sent a delightful email expressing her thanks:
“We are quite humbled to be provided with such a thoughtful and generous gift from the students. Our staff are hard-working, kind and caring people
and are often not valued in the ways that they deserve. Aged care is a hard industry and in current times are facing additional challenges. The staff were delighted yesterday when we distributed these (gifts) and wanted their heartfelt thanks to be sent back to the school students. We would also like to send our appreciation to the teachers and School Administration for their support and guidance they would have given the students to accomplish such a magnificent and large undertaking. It was truly a gift of a blessing in disguise.”
In a similar vein, another member of the local community wrote to commend our students:
“Today I was out shopping when I overheard some young people asking an elderly lady if she’d like any help. At that stage I didn’t know they were students
from your school doing community service. I was just impressed by their manner and how polite and kind they were, and I couldn’t help thinking what a lovely bunch they were! Anyway, I couldn’t let it go without letting you know what an asset to your school these students are.”
The Principal, Dr Parry said:
“The School is immensely proud of our students and what they do for others and achieve in such a diverse range of endeavours. It is important we appreciate how fortunate we are and that we use our advantages in life to serve and help others. It is clear that we have many students and families who appreciate this and for this very reason we are able to enjoy such a warm and caring community at Kinross Wolaroi.”
Students at Foodcare Hat Making
A large contingent of the student body participated in the ANZAC Day Ceremonies in Orange. With students still on holidays, many Cadets and students of all ages represented the School superbly as they marched through the streets of Orange and attended the Commemoration Service. The Marching Band made an excellent contribution as they led the School playing ‘The Road to Gundagai’.
At the start of April seven of our brave boarding students hosted their first Round Square Zoom Postcard meeting. The topic was “Boarding Life around the World” and it involved 55 students from around the world: India, China, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia.
The students had to deal with participants for whom English was a second language, connection dropouts, uncomfortable silences when no-one answered their questions, and had to
problem-solve on the fly for the meeting hour. It was an authentic, student-driven learning experience for everyone who attended.
The students involved included Ashton Quinn-Wooten, Lucy McIsaac, Mhairi Whylie, Izayah Walker, Daisy Smith, Harry Chase and they were led by Maka Mutiyiri, who was unflappable, highly organised and a wonderful leader for the younger students.
Congratulations to those students
for creating such a warm and hospitable atmosphere.
Membership of Round Square will continue to deliver these quality learning and leadership experiences for Kinross Wolaroi students.
Our 1st XV and 2nd XV held their Annual Rugby Camp during the April holidays. The camp was a critical part of preparation for the season. We were joined at the camp by Cranbrook School, The Armidale School and Canberra Marist. Players participated in rugby drills, games and team building activities.
Year 10 parent, Sarah McIntosh was the organiser of the Mother’s Day Classic for Orange on Sunday 8 May at Lake Canobolas. Sarah reached out to our boarders to support the event and they joined 100,000 Mother’s Day Classic fans at up to 100 event locations around Australia who wanted to show support for breast cancer research, a cause that affects so many.
In the lead up to the event, boarders ran a bake sale, BBQ breakfast and a school mufti day to support their fundraising. A large number of boarders also participated in the Mother’s Day Classic, running and walking around Lake Canobolas.
Australia’s largest fun run and walk for breast cancer research ultimately announced a donation of $1.5 million to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and our boarders were very proud to have played their part.
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.
On Tuesday, 8 March Kinross Wolaroi School celebrated International Women’s Day. Students and staff came together to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality.
Senior girls enjoyed morning tea and an address from local businesswoman, SJ, owner of Second Mouse Cheese Co. During wellbeing time, students wrote postcards to women they found inspirational. In a wonderful conversation starter, the school TWIG team made ‘political’ Bacon and Egg rolls for staff, factoring the gender pay gap into their price structure. Throughout
the week music from women was played at the start of each day, and student leaders announced interesting facts and figures to strengthen understanding about why such a day is important.
Wednesday morning Chapel was themed around International Women’s Day, with Rev. Dr Rosalie Clarke speaking on the role of women in the bible, examining the bias surrounding the traditions and readings we find within the scriptures. Students spoke of the important roles that many women in science and history have played in changing our lives as we know them today.
One of the most powerful moments was at Chapel, when Year 12 student, Bryce Commins, delivered a beautiful piece of slam poetry – a spoken word performance. Bryce’s original work is shared in this article. Not only was the poetry beautifully written, but it was insightful and heartfelt. The delivery had the audience in thrall, and the message was clear, authentic, and resonated strongly with staff and students alike. Thanks must go to Bryce for sharing and performing such a wonderful piece of work that captured the essence of International Women’s Day
Bryce Commins, Year 12
Take a moment to reflect, On an important woman in your life. Its time to try and connect With those who keep you free from strife. It may be International Women’s Day, But what does that mean to say
“Thanks” to those deserving today?
Do you attempt to portray her name
As a kindness that’s forever on display?
Will you repay the way she held the grey at bay, Like how a sun’s ray lays waste on dismay, With an everyday bouquet? Regardless, do not delay. Ask her to stay And attempt to convey
Your feelings in a conscious way. It may be a cliché, But we must pay back for our disarray. The times we disobey Misbehave or go astray. It need not be an essay, Through crochet, ballet or extensive survey. It may be a simple as asking, if she’s okay. Sometimes, we may see a flower of which we need to care. But through this, we seem painfully unaware. That flower is a powerful tower And to those doubters, I’m not asking you to bow for an hour, Simply for us to raise our voices louder. Hold our brow prouder And empower those around us. Because honestly, what would we do without her?
Trent Chapman is no newcomer to Kinross Wolaroi School. The newly-appointed Head of Senior School has been teaching Technology and Computer Studies since 2010, while juggling several other leadership roles including Cadet Unit Officer, Head of Weymouth House, Acting Head of Boys Boarding, Head Mentor of McLachlan House and Rugby Coach.
Prior to joining Kinross Wolaroi, Mr Chapman also held leadership roles at The Scots College in Sydney and several schools in the United Kingdom, covering diverse socioeconomic and cultural demographics.
It’s this experience that gave the busy teacher and parent to students Harrison (Year 6), Eddie (Year 2) and Ivy (Year 1) the confidence to raise his hand for Head of Senior School at the beginning of the year.
“The application process was daunting, but exciting, and I was thrilled to be given an interview,” said Mr Chapman.
“The main reason I applied is because I care deeply about the School. I want to support others and do all I can to contribute to the School’s success in the future. I’m very proud to be part of the School community, both as a staff member and parent. During my 13 years here, I’ve developed great friendships and I love being a part of this team of dedicated and passionate educators.”
Mr Chapman’s focus for the first 12 months as the new Head of Senior School is to build strong relationships with staff and students in a bid to continue to develop the strong community at Kinross Wolaroi, with a positive culture built on trust and mutual respect.
“I’m keen to see our students getting the basics right; acting with care and respect for self and others, taking pride in their uniform and the beautiful campus that we get to enjoy. I want our students to make the most of the amazing opportunity that Kinross Wolaroi provides to explore a huge range of academic and co-curricular endeavours,” said Mr Chapman.
“Coming out of two very disrupted years of remote learning and significant restrictions on-site, we have a lot of work to do to get our programs back on track. This year has provided an opportunity to consolidate, and we’ve had several outstanding new staff join our ranks. I’m very excited for the next few years as we continue to develop, especially our Round Square and TREE (The Regional Engagement Enterprise) programs.”
Mr Chapman’s observations of the Senior School are that it’s a caring and friendly environment where staff and students give 110 per cent.
“The School provides opportunities for every student to explore their interests and passions,” said Mr Chapman.
Mr Chapman has also been pleasantly impressed with the boarding program.
“I come from the small rural town of Quambone in western NSW and was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend boarding school. Our boarding program provides outstanding care and support for our students from rural and remote areas. This resonates strongly with me,” said Mr Chapman.
It’s a busy role, run in conjunction with two Computer Studies classes and working with the School’s Cadet Unit, however, Mr Chapman is used to wearing many hats and is continuously buoyed by his interactions with staff and students.
“The role is very challenging and I’ve already learned so much about what goes on behind the scenes to keep the school running. It’s a privilege to be connected to every aspect of the Senior School,” he said.
I want to support others and do all I can to contribute to the school’s success into the future.”
Trent Chapman, Head of Senior SchoolKINROSS WOLAROI SCHOOL
A sense of adventure and the opportunity to raise his and wife Nicola’s three children, Fletcher, 13, Miller, 11, and Jarvis, 8, in regional Australia was the impetus for Matt Byrne to join Kinross Wolaroi School as Head of Boys’ Boarding in September 2022.
Mr Byrne has always worked in boarding houses while teaching and has spent the past 20 years travelling across Australia, the UK and New Zealand for various roles.
His most recent role was in Plymouth, in South West England, but the offer to work in Orange was one he and his active family of four couldn’t refuse.
“We love cricket, rugby and all things outdoor, so Orange is the perfect location
for us. And having taught previously in Sydney over ten years ago and having played against Kinross Wolaroi in rugby fixtures, I knew that it was a good school with a good reputation,” said Mr Byrne.
Mr Byrne’s focus for the first 12 months in his new role is to listen to as many stakeholders as possible to identify the future needs of boys’ boarding.
“This includes the parents who entrust myself and the staff with the care of their children and the students who have the lived experience within the community. It is very early to be committing to what needs to be worked upon, however, I will be working very
hard alongside staff and students to build a community whereby our young people feel safe, valued and heard,” said Mr Byrne.
Mr Byrne has been very impressed by the male boarders and staff who work in boarding at Kinross Wolaroi.
“There is clearly a good work ethic within the majority of our boarders, which has been nice to see,” said Mr Byrne. “I have also enjoyed meeting the team that is already in place that provides the care and support for our young people. Mrs Hannah Whittemore has done an incredible job of leading the entire community prior to my arrival.”
I will be working very hard alongside staff and students to build a community where our young people feel safe, valued and heard.”
Matt Byrne, Head of Boys’ Boarding
The new Head of Swimming joined the sport at a young age to treat his asthma condition and quickly discovered a deep affiliation with swimming, which his whole family could be part of.
Mr Lawrence swam all the way up to the National Open Level, but it was an opportunity to assist his Year 12 Swimming Coach that set a new direction.
From that moment, Mr Lawrence turned his attention to coaching, which included coaching his brother with Down Syndrome. With Mr Lawrence’s help, his brother made it into three Australian Down Syndrome World Championship teams, travelling to Mexico in 2014 and Italy in 2016 - a career highlight.
Mr Lawrence has now been coaching at the state and national levels for
more than ten years and was formerly Assistant Head Coach at Abbotsleigh School for Girls and Swim Coach for Pymble Ladies College. Taking the position of Head of Swimming at Kinross Wolaroi in mid-2022 represented another step up the ladder and Mr Lawrence couldn’t be prouder.
“I made the move to Kinross for the opportunity to advance my coaching career and challenge myself with a Head of Swimming role. Having accepted the role has enabled me to begin an exciting new chapter of my journey,” said Mr Lawrence.
Over the next 12 months, Mr Lawrence hopes to grow the Learn to Swim and Junior School Squads; continue to develop on the great foundations within the Performance Squad; and foster a process-driven mindset to performance across all the squads, allowing swimmers to focus on what’s within their control within the training environment and on race day.
“My coaching philosophy is centred on focusing on the individual learner; building a safe, team-oriented environment, and focusing on technique-driven speed and a smart physiological progression,” said Mr Lawrence.
Mr Lawrence left Sydney to join Kinross Wolaroi and was thrilled to be met by a welcoming and enthusiastic group of people.
“We have such a great bunch of young, motivated people on the swim team at Kinross Wolaroi. I love the directness with which they are able to discuss their dreams, goals and ambitions, and they’ve really bonded during COVID-19,” said Mr Lawrence.
Swimming is, without a doubt, Mr Lawrence’s passion. However, when he’s not at the pool, Mr Lawrence is cooking or taking his dog for a walk/run. Now he’s living in Orange, Mr Lawrence is also hoping to add golf to his list of hobbies.
We have such a great bunch of young, motivated people on the Swim Team at Kinross Wolaroi.”
Brandon Lawrence, Head Swimming Coach
Aged just 17, Brandon Lawrence discovered there was more joy in helping others improve their performance in the water than his own and now, he’s making waves at Kinross Wolaroi School.
If
it’s that in order for students
need to be flourishing emotionally. That’s why the educational leader of more than 20 years decided to take up a role that blends curriculum and wellbeing in the newly-created position of Assistant Head of Junior School - Wellbeing at Kinross Wolaroi School in 2022.
The creation of the Assistant Head of Junior School - Wellbeing role this year reinforces Kinross Wolaroi’s commitment to investing in wellbeing programs and frameworks to support students alongside rigorous academic programs.
The role enables Mrs Milliken to work closely alongside Assistant Head of Junior School - Learning, Ms Amanda Dodson, to lead academic programs, develop and implement wellbeing strategies and programs for students and staff, and offer to support and educate parents.
“Wellbeing and learning work in a reciprocal manner. So, when we support our students with building their social, emotional and physical health, we see benefits not only to their learning, but also to their overall outlook on life,” said Mrs Milliken.
The mother and part-time hobby farmer has worked in regional and metropolitan schools in a variety of leadership positions, from leading religious education as a Religious Education Coordinator to implementing curriculum as an Education Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
Since joining Kinross Wolaroi, Mrs Milliken’s focus has been on supporting the focus of the Junior School’s learning
community to a holistic curriculum to reflect the commitment to providing a challenging, enriching, inspiring and supportive education environment for students and teachers.
“A major focus for the Junior School this year has been the implementation of the URSTRONG program. URSTRONG is a whole-school friendship strategy that reinforces the important messages of empowerment, self-compassion, and kindness at the School. URSTRONG gives the whole School community a common language and strategies that are being explicitly taught in the classroom through the ‘Friendology 101’ curriculum,” said Mrs Milliken.
“We have hosted a well-attended parent workshop and we continue to encourage families to register to become a URSTRONG Family, so they can work in partnership with the teachers to reinforce the important messages of empowerment, self-compassion, and kindness at home. We believe that empowering our students with these skills will create a culture of kindness at our school and we hope that together, we can support your children to have healthy, feel-good friendships.”
As a participating school in the Association of Independent Schools (AIS) NSW COMPASS initiative, the Junior School staff have been able to reflect on the whole-of-school approach to wellbeing and further align all key
aspects of school life to best support the needs of students. For example, in the Junior School this year, staff have worked to make connections between the School’s Social, Emotional Learning (SEL) program and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) curriculum to ensure a strengths-based approach to wellbeing and learning.
Mrs Milliken said she has thoroughly enjoyed building on the work previously done by the School and getting to know the Junior School students and parents.
“We have great students at Kinross Wolaroi, and they all bring with them their individual gifts and talents. So, getting to know all the students from Pre-Kindergarten through to Year 6 has been a joy. Working in collaboration with parents and families is a key part of this role and hosting parent information evenings such as URSTRONG, Amazing Me and the K-6 Numeracy information session has given me the chance to get to know a lot of the parent community,” said Mrs Milliken.
And when Mrs Milliken isn’t at school, she’s taking care of her own wellbeing by heading out to the family farm just outside Orange.
“On the weekends, as a family, we enjoy being out there spending time together, feeding the livestock, roasting marshmallows on the fire and generally having a relaxing, fun time,” said Mrs Milliken.
When we support our students with building their social, emotional and physical health, we see benefits not only to their learning, but also to their overall outlook on life.”
Virginia Milliken, Junior School Leader of Learning and Wellbeing
there is one thing Virginia Milliken knows best,
to flourish in their learning, they
Kinross Wolaroi is well respected within the local community and larger education circles. It has fantastic staff and facilities and is continually striving to be better.”
Originally from Orange, Angus Brotherton always knew he would eventually return home, and the time was right at the beginning of 2022, when he joined Kinross Wolaroi’s TAS’ faculty and became Head of McLachlan House.
The new Technology and Applied Studies (TAS) Faculty Teacher and Head of McLachlan House has been teaching in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs at Waverley College and Sydney Boys High for the past few years, and was thrilled by the opportunity to expand his experience at Kinross Wolaroi.
“Kinross Wolaroi is well respected within the local community and larger education circles. It has fantastic staff and facilities and is continually striving to be better,” said Mr Brotherton. Home and working in a dream role, Mr Brotherton couldn’t wait to walk through the doors at Kinross Wolaroi in Term 1, however, the universe had other plans.
“I caught COVID-19 in my orientation week - so it was an even bigger whirlwind trying to play catch up! Luckily, everyone was super helpful,” said Mr Brotherton. While settling in, Mr Brotherton has been busy familiarising himself with
the day-to-day operations at School and getting to know his colleagues and students.
“So far, my observations of the TAS Faculty are that it consists of experienced and knowledgeable practitioners. This was demonstrated by the very impressive Year 12 Industrial Technology Metal Major Works, which were guided by Mr Simon Lun and Mr Peter Finley. On top of this, everyone has been really welcoming and supportive,” said Mr Brotherton.
“My observations of McLachlan House have also been positive. The house is full of smart, talented and respectful students. Its also encouraging to see the many potential student leaders coming through.”
Staff in the TAS Faculty often wear many hats and the same will be the case for Mr Brotherton. However, his main role will be teaching Design and Industrial Technologies alongside Information and Software Technology. Outside of this, Mr Brotherton will act as a mentor to students of McLachlan House. It’s a big role and Mr Brotherton
has high hopes of improving overall wellbeing.
“Along with the Wellbeing team, I’m aiming to promote what Wellbeing is, why it’s important, how it can help all stakeholders and finally, helping with implementation. There is already a good program here, so it’s about building upon the foundations,” said Mr Brotherton.
It is perhaps Mr Brotherton’s experience on the field as a rugby player and as a former building site foreman that he’s learnt the most from about looking out for others. Mr Brotherton played for the mighty Eastern Suburbs Rugby Club while living in Sydney and has continued to show his support for the Orange City Rugby Club, which he won two undefeated premierships with when he last lived at home.
Moving home also means Mr Brotherton and his partner can spend more time with family in Orange and Forbes, including their little nephew Lennon, or ‘Lenny’, as everyone affectionately calls him.
Competitive swimmers Kyla Brown, Year 10, and Bianca Fuller, Year 12, made a name for themselves in 2022 in the representative swimming pathway.
Bianca won Gold at the NSW All Schools Swimming in 50m fly, 100m fly, 200m Breaststroke and 200m Individual Medley. She also won bronze in 100 Breaststroke. Kyla won Silver in the 50m Breaststroke and Bronze in the 100m and 200m Breaststroke.
In a successful NSW State Age Swimming Championships, Kyla won gold in the 100m Breaststroke and Silver
in the 200m Breaststroke. Bianca also had a successful swim meet, winning gold medals in the 200m 17/18 Butterfly, 200m Breaststroke and silver in the 200m Individual Medley; and a bronze medal in the 100m Breaststroke.
The School gained a new national champion, with Bianca Fuller taking home a clutch of medals at the Australian All Schools Championships: Gold – U17/18 Girls 50m Butterfly; Gold – U17/18 Girls 100m Butterfly; Gold – NSW Team Medley Relay; Silver – U17/18 200m Individual Medley; Silver
– U17/18 200m Breast Stroke; Bronze –U17/18 100m Breaststroke. Both girls attended the Open Nationals Swimming trials during Term 2 - competing against some of the best swimmers in the world - and performed exceptionally. A wonderful achievement and incredible experience, this was a fitting end to the representative swimming season for two students who have dedicated themselves to the Kinross Wolaroi swim squad.
Year 11 student Toby Gough sat both the IMEB Associate Teacher Diploma and IMEB Diploma of Theatre Performance exams. Toby received outstanding results A+ Hon 97/100 for both Diplomas – an absolutely fabulous result! The IMEB Teacher Diploma will enable Toby to teach Speech and Drama in the future.
Toby was the only student to receive two diplomas this year. He is now working as a part time teacher with Encore Speech and Drama Studio in Bathurst, and has also been employed by Bathurst Broadcasters 2BS/BRock as a part time newsreader.
Congratulations on this significant achievement Toby.
Gold Duke of Edinburgh
Words by Hannah Richardson
Duke of Edinburgh has been a fantastic journey that has challenged me and taught me many life skills. I started the Duke of Edinburgh process in Year 9 when I completed my bronze level, then moving on to finish my silver award by the end of Year 10. I finalised my gold award by the start of Year 12.
Overall, the Duke of Edinburgh Award has pushed me to reach out and obtain new life skills, develop intrinsic motivation, and stay organised.
Duke of Edinburgh is broken into four main sections: skill, sport, service, and adventurous journey, the first three of which you must complete for one hour a week for a certain number of weeks. For the skill component I participated in musicals including productions of The Addams Family, Oliver, and High School Musical; I also read novels with the goal to read a large range of books. For the sporting component, I participated in netball and rowing, and for the service component I worked at a nursing home, coached a netball team, and filled a leadership position as New House Captain. There are a large variety of activities available at school that can be used to contribute to the award, including cadets, music, and sport.
Another element to Duke of Edinburgh is the adventurous journey. Cadet camp counted for my bronze level but for silver I walked the Six Foot Track, from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves and for gold I completed a trail ride on horseback. The length of the journey begins with an overnight trip for bronze and extends to four days and three nights for gold. This was one of my favourite parts of the awards program,
as it really pushed me out of my comfort zone. When walking the Six Foot Track, we climbed over 900m in half a day, and when horse riding for my gold we covered over 80kms. The school also assists with organising group camps for Duke of Edinburgh. Personally, I had journeys that I knew I wanted to achieve, which is why my journeys were self-planned, but my peers have spoken positively about the school organised trips.
Overall, I really enjoyed the experience and found that the program works in very well with what is on offer at school. I will be honest in saying that completing the Gold Duke of Edinburgh does require time, commitment, and organisation but it certainly pays off, being an internationally recognised award. For me it was a fun program that gave me the opportunity to give back to my community and keep me busy; this improved my studies as it encouraged me to be efficient with my time and stay organised.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a commitment which requires dedication, organisation, and persistence. Completing the Award is an achievement to be proud of. Universities recognise this, and some offer extra ATAR points, which can help you get into your desired course. Logging the award is also a simple process and I would highly recommend using the online record book. If anyone has any questions on how to complete the award or wishes to discuss options regarding their sport, service, and skill I am more than happy to help.
Josie Clarke was named by Touch Football Australia (TFA) in the National Youth Squads for selection into the 2023 national youth team, the Pain Away Emus. Squad members have attended a squad camp to form six national youth teams as TFA readies itself for a return to international competition, currently proposed for April 2023. A great achievement by Josie.
Congratulations to Erica Stuart of Year 9. She has continued in the Stuart family tradition and excelled in the sport of Polocrosse. Erica was selected to represent Australia in the Australian Junior Polocrosse team, playing in a successful Test Series against New Zealand in Narrabri on 8-10 July.
Congratulations to Arnie Tancred who was selected to represent NSW Second XV Schoolboy Rugby Union Team. Arnie had a great tournament scoring a try in the first game against Queensland 1 to help NSW 2 to a win that ultimately set up a third-place finish for the NSW 2 team.
“I just don’t think I could have done it without the three main coaches at Kinross, Mr Tink, Mr Short and Mr Dyer. They’ve been really helpful this year in my rugby development.” says Arnie.
At the start of February the Kinross Wolaroi Swim Team competed at the NSW State Championships with 15 athletes attending the event over five days. The team did extremely well under the guidance of Head Coach, Kim Taylor who dedicated his time to training the team in preparation for 2022 swim events.
Kinross Wolaroi School placed 23rd on the point score, among 189 clubs who participated in the events. A huge congratulations to Bianca Fuller and Kyla Brown who won gold medals in the 400m Individual Medley and the 50m Breaststroke respectively. Each athlete
achieved numerous PB’s and impressive results over various events in the Championships.
The 14-year Girls Relay team (Emily Clunas, Ava Ward, Eddie Waterman, Chloe McGilvray) swam a personal best and the 16-year and under Girls Relay team (Eddie Waterman, Bianca Fuller, Kyla Brown, Ellie Mc Miles) finished 6th in the Medley Relay. Our Junior Girls Relay team (Ava Ward, Chloe McGilvray, Emily Clunas, Edwina Waterman) had a personal best time and Tommaso Cornelius-Feltus swam the final 400m Individual Medley, finishing in 9th with a personal best time.
The School achieved its best results in our history at the NSW Rowing Championships held at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Term 1, 2022. Sixteen crews (plus one Composite crew) medalled with seven being NSW Champions!
Gold Medals:
• Championship Schoolgirl Coxed Quad Scull – Lucy Scammell, Ayla Ryan, Annabelle Woods, Lucy Searle, Cox: Georgie Robson
• Championship Men’s Under 16 Double Scull – Oliver Smith, Oscar Cleary
• Championship Women’s Under 16 Coxed Quad Scull - Jemima Scammell, Sophie Luelf, Olivia Searle, Tessa Wong, Cox: Emily Caro
• Championship Men’s Under 16 Coxed Quad Scull – Nick Tancred, Tom Day, Oscar Cleary, Oliver Smith, Cox: Angus Petersen
• Championship Women’s Under 16 Double Scull – Jemima Scammell, Tessa Wong
• Championship Schoolgirl Single Scull – Hannah Richardson
• Championship Schoolgirl Double Scull – Hannah Richardson, Lucy Searle
Silver Medals:
• Championship Schoolgirl EightGeorgia Sweetapple, Milly Lane, Audrey Gill, Hannah Richardson, Annabelle Woods, Ayla Ryan, Lucy Scammell, Lucy Searle, Cox: Georgie Robson
• Championship Women’s Under 16 Single Scull –Tessa Wong
• Championship Men’s Under 16 Single Scull – Oliver Smith
• Championship Women’s Under 19 Quad Scull – Georgia Sweetapple, Ayla Ryan, Annabelle Woods, Lucy Scammell
• Championship Men’s Under 19 Double Scull - Alec Hoskin (in a composite crew)
Bronze Medals:
• Championship Men’s Under 19 Single Scull - Alec Hoskin
• Championship Schoolgirl Single Scull – Lucy Searle
• Championship Women’s Under 19 Coxed Four - Georgia Sweetapple, Milly Lane, Audrey Gill, Hannah Richardson, Cox: Angus Petersen
• Championship Schoolboy Coxed Quad Scull – Nick Brown, Magnus Cleary, Alec Hoskin, Fletcher Smith, Cox: Angus Petersen
• Championship Women’s Under 16 Double Scull – Olivia Searle, Sophie Luelf
The Schoolboy’s Coxed Quadruple Scull team were the standout achievers for Kinross Wolaroi at the National Rowing Championships in Nagambie, Victoria on 28 March to 3 April 2022.
Kinross Wolaroi topped the School rankings and took home six medals - one gold, three silver and two bronze.
In a field of 95 clubs including major players such as Sydney Uni and ANU, Kinross Wolaroi School achieved an outstanding equal 12th place overall, sharing the position of top performing School in the Championships with St Augustine’s.
Kinross Wolaroi took a remarkable two teams into the Schoolboy’s Coxed Quad Scull ‘A’ Final, in a field of six entries, taking a silver medal with Fletcher Smith, Charlie Neville, Nicholas Brown, Alec Hoskin and cox Angus Petersen. The Schoolboy Quads silver was the first medal the boy teams have won in a number of years at Nationals, showing a resurgence in boys rowing at the School.
The same crew went on to deliver
gold in the Schoolboy’s Coxed Quadruple Scull Sprint team against a field that included Cathedral Townsville and Cranbrook School.
The boys scored another silver in the Under 17 Men’s Coxed Quadruple Scull for Nicholas Tancred, Tom Day, Oscar Cleary, Oliver Smith and cox Angus Petersen. These boys raced up an age group and will be able to compete in this same division in 2023, when the National Championships head to Champion Lakes in Perth.
Alec Hoskin took a creditable bronze in the Schoolboy’s Single Scull.
The girls’ teams also delivered medals, with a silver in the Under 19 Women’s Coxed Eight, featuring Audrey Gill, Milly Lane, Lucy Searle, Lucy Scammell, Ayla Ryan, Annabelle Woods, Hannah Richardson, Georgia Sweetapple and cox Georgia Robson. There was a bronze for the same four rowers in the Schoolgirl Coxed Quadruple Scull in the ‘A’ Final.
The Nationals’ result was a great conclusion to a season that saw one of
the schools’ best performances across all competitions, even in the face of disruptions from COVID and heavy rain.
Principal Dr Andrew Parry said he was absolutely thrilled with the result.
“We’ve put Kinross Wolaroi on the map as a great rowing school in the last three years,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of these students and staff, as well as the commitment of our community to supporting this fabulous sport.
“Rowing develops not only physical ability but also mental toughness and it can take our students further than they can imagine both as a sport and for scholarship opportunities at home and abroad.
“It is all part of a ‘regional heart, global spirit’ philosophy that sees our students enjoy the benefits of our beautiful country location at the same time as having a world of opportunities open to them at school and beyond.”
Kinross Wolaroi School’s Corey McLean is the recipient of the 2022 Excellence in Indigenous Education & Boarding Leadership Award from Indigenous Education and Boarding Australia.
The Excellence in Indigenous Boarding Leadership award recognises individuals or organisations that have
challenged common practice and are pursuing excellence to make a difference to the lives of their Indigenous boarders.
Corey was recognised for his outstanding work supporting the School’s First Nations boarding students, his promotion of knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture across the School and community, and
for his excellent Wiradjuri language program for Junior School students.
Principal, Dr Andrew Parry congratulated Corey, saying, “This is fantastic news, a wonderful achievement and a very appropriate acknowledgement of the outstanding contribution Corey makes.”
Kinross Wolaroi School Alumna Bella Scammell (Class of 2021) represented Australia as part of the Gold Medal winning U23 Coxed Four at the 2022 U23 World Rowing Championships in Varese, Italy in July 2022. The crew broke two world championship records at the event. Having smashed the World Championship Best Time during the preliminary race, Australia took gold in the final, smashing the World Championship Best Time again with a 6:44, and finishing only one second off the World Best Time.
In November, Isabella was also announced as NSW Sport Young Athlete of the Year Finalist for her phenomenal rowing season.
Two ex-Kinross Wolaroi students represented Australia in women’s rugby in 2022. Grace Hamilton (Class of 2009) and Jemima McCalman (Junior School) were named to play for the Wallaroos in the Rugby World Cup in May.
McCalman debuted for Australia against Fiji on 6 May 2022 at the
Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. She earned her second cap for the Wallaroos against Japan on 10 May and was named in the squad for the 2022 Pacific Four Series.
Hamilton made her test debut for Australia in the 2016 tour of New Zealand. She represented Australia at
the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup in Ireland. She was named in Australia’s squad for the 2022 Pacific Four Series in New Zealand and later made the Wallaroos squad for a two-test series against the Black Ferns in the Laurie O’Reilly Cup.
Mr Anthony Begg – Head of Boys’ Boarding, has given 15 years of outstanding service to the students, staff and families of Kinross Wolaroi School. His contribution has been immense across many dimensions of our broad and holistic educational offering.
Anthony has been Head of Boys’ Boarding, Head of Weymouth House, Head of Tower House and Acting Head of Boarding and has been in residence serving the boys and families of the School since 2009. He has taught PDHPE from Kindergarten to Year 12, Community and Family Studies and been a Mentor in Douglas House. Anthony’s involvement in the co-curricular life of the School has also been extensive, evidenced by his involvement in Cadet Camps, Rugby where he has coached the 1st XV and been an ISA Coach and Selector, Triathlon, Cricket, Netball and he has served as MIC of Athletics.
Kinross Wolaroi School has established itself as a leader demonstrating excellence in Indigenous
Education, due to the dedication and vision of Anthony Begg. In 2012 Anthony was appointed as the School’s first Indigenous Students Co-ordinator and delivered a program that has been recognised for its excellence in many quarters, including the Association of Independent Schools and the Australian Boarding Schools Association. In 2018 Kinross Wolaroi was the inaugural winner of the ‘Excellence in Indigenous Boarding Award’ selected from all Boarding Schools across the nation. The many initiatives introduced by Anthony have seen him play a vital role in closing the educational gap in Australia and had a significant impact upon the lives of our students and those of future generations.
Kinross Wolaroi will miss the Begg family and we are deeply appreciative of the wonderful contribution they have made to the lives of our students and our School.
Anthony left Kinross Wolaroi at the end of 2021 to take up a role at St Ignatius’ College, Riverview.
Kim Taylor - Head of Swimming, came to Kinross Wolaroi in 2016 with over twenty years’ experience as a swim coach. He has worked tirelessly to build the Kinross Wolaroi swim program to its current renowned position. Kim handled our Swim Team in a dedicated and professional manner and his genuine and relational nature saw the wellbeing of our athletes as his top priority. He leaves our high performing club with an excellent team culture and will be sorely missed by all who swam and worked with him.
Mr Taylor ensured the School Swim Program aimed high and maintained dominance at all swim meets. He coached many students in the Swim Squad to State Age and
Open Championship level and is responsible for ten National Champion level swimmers over the course of his tenure. Recently he had three swimmers attending the Commonwealth Games selection trials, an incredible achievement for a country school.
We wish him all the best for his wellearned retirement and are most grateful for his dedication and commitment to Kinross Wolaroi over the past six years. We are a far richer place for his contribution.
11 years of service
Mr Chris Oldham, Head of Languages, resigned at the end of 2021 after 11 years at the school.
Chris was employed by Kinross Wolaroi in 2010 and has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in education both here and internationally. We have been so fortunate to have benefitted from his expertise in teaching, as well as mentoring our upcoming language teachers. He has a special capacity to inspire and instil confidence in students and teachers alike and is an inspirational and outstanding educator.
Chris has made an enormous impression on staff and so many students. His experience, contribution and kind spirit will be greatly missed. He is a true scholar and gentleman.
Congratulations to Head of Trathen House, Hugo Johnson and partner Jayne on the arrival of their first child, a son, Arthur George on 8 June 2022.
Congratulations to Teacher and Head of Strength and Conditioning, Norm Moore and partner Keiron on the arrival on 4 June of Arthur Hogan, who weighed in at 3.7kgs.
A warm welcome to Elva, first child to two former students, Mitch Colton (Class of 2008) and Claire Colton (nee Silvester, Class of 2010). Elva was born on 30 March 2021. Congratulations to Mitch and Claire.
ARTHUR HOGAN MOORE
ARTHUR GEORGE JOHNSON
ELVA ELEANOR JUDITH COLTON
The documentary followed the story of Australian combat cameraman, Neil Davis, who is best known for his coverage of the Vietnam War. For Ben, it was Davis’ ability to bring the confronting reality of war into Australian’s living rooms that inspired him to seek out his own stories.
Since leaving school in 2000, Ben has carved out an impressive career as a journalist, working across Australia and the world, from Longreach in outback Queensland to the Middle East. Ben won a Clarion Award for his work in television current affairs and has twice been nominated as a Walkley Award finalist for his work in radio. Today, Ben is a journalist with the ABC in Newcastle.
When reflecting on his career highlights, Ben noted his coverage of issues such as kids in youth detention, survivors of clergy sexual abuse, coal ash pollution from power stations and human rights abuses of migrant construction workers in the Middle East.
Ben said the craziest situation he has been involved in was having to run through the backstreets of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia with his cameraman as they were chased by police.
“We were in Jeddah to interview the head of a major construction company, but he cancelled on us and we had no story,” said Ben.
“But while we were there, we came across this large group of migrant workers living under a bridge near our hotel. There were about 2,000 men and women who had run away from their Saudi sponsors, which meant they had no passports and were stranded under this bridge, in some cases for many years.
“We went down there at night and started gathering their stories and taking photos, which attracted a bit of attention. Eventually, the police turned up with sirens blaring and we ran, literally zig zagged our way through these narrow streets to get away. It was a crazy situation because we knew taking photos in public or criticising the government could put you in jail or worse. But still, we went back early the next morning to get photos at sunrise as everyone woke up, which really made the story. It was a rare glimpse into the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people, in a secretive nation, with no independent media.”
Ben remains grateful for the schooling he received at Kinross Wolaroi
which laid the foundation for his career in journalism, and the many great teachers he learned under, including his own mum.
“Some might remember Mum as the French teacher, Madame Millington. She is still a great inspiration and any strength in the field of communication that I may have, I owe to her,” said Ben.
To other Kinross Wolaroi students considering a career in journalism, Ben said there’s never a dull moment.
“You meet incredible people and learn something new every day. I studied Communication but would try and do a double degree with another specialty, such as Law or Science, if I had my time again,” said Ben.
“Once you get your qualifications, it’s easier to get a start in a regional area than many people think – offer yourself up as an intern and be persistent; people will get to know you and when they suddenly need someone (and they always do), you’ll be there to fill the spot. From there, you won’t look back.”
When Ben isn’t working, he’s busy at home with wife Nancy, who is also a journalist, raising their two daughters, Eula and Esme.
“You meet incredible people and learn something new every day.”
Ben Millington, Alumni
“To any Kinross Wolaroi student thinking about studying overseas, I say if the opportunity comes your way, grab it with both hands.”
Annabelle Tierney, Alumni
Since graduating in 2016, Annabelle has gone on to represent Tasmania at the National Indoor Hockey Championships and was the youngest ever Captain of the Orange Confederates (now Orange United) Hockey Team in the Central West Premier League Competition.
In the August of 2017, Belle left Orange and travelled to Pennsylvania in the US where she took up a sporting and academic scholarship playing field hockey in the prestigious NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) competitions while studying for her Bachelor in Marine Biology at Millersville University.
Belle was named in the II Division All-American Rookie team as the Millersville team earned the right to
play in the National Championships. Belle was also named in the AllPSAC (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference) squads two years running.
“The college sporting system over here is just crazy. I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to be involved in it. I’ve made friends for life, broadened my horizons, and got to study on the other side of the world!” said Belle.
Belle graduated ‘Cum Laude’ (with distinction) in Marine Biology in 2021 and moved to South Carolina where she commenced her Masters in Marine Biology. She lives at the Marine Research Centre of the famous College of Charleston and teaches first year Biology as part of her course.
Her Masters Thesis involves the
study of microplastics, and she spends much of her time in the field and in the ocean studying the effects and damage of microplastics on marine creatures and the environment.
“It’s really hard work, but I’m having too much fun to have a clear direction for the future,” said Belle. “One option is to come back to Queensland and undertake more research through a PhD at James Cook University in Cairns.”
When asked if making ‘the big move’ to America was worth it, she said: “I haven’t regretted it for one day. I miss my family terribly but Zoom with them a couple of times a week. To any Kinross Wolaroi student thinking about studying overseas, I say if the opportunity comes your way, grab it with both hands.”
Jo Hunter (née Garey) is a formidable sportswoman. From the cricket nets at Kinross Wolaroi School, she carved out a career in cricket most could only dream of, making her debut for Australia aged just 20. And despite a serious accident that caused a life-altering injury - forcing Jo to retire from cricket two years later - she remained an athlete and an inspiration to females in sport the world over.
A week in the life of ex-student Jo Garey by Year 9 involved cricket in the mornings, softball in the afternoons, and travelling to Sydney on Sundays to play in the 1st grade women’s competition. The only difference between summer and winter was hockey replaced cricket and softball.
Only two years out of school and Jo was playing before mass crowds in India and New Zealand with the Australian Women’s Cricket Team. The sights, the sounds and the smells will forever be imprinted in Jo’s memory as some of her best life moments, but unfortunately, this adventure was cut short.
In March 1995, while in Clovelly, Sydney, Jo was run over by a bus, resulting in an injury to her knee that meant she had to retire from cricket after playing just six games for Australia.
“I will always be a bit disappointed I didn’t achieve more with my cricket, but my knee was too unstable to handle the change of direction and agility cricket requires,” said Jo. “I had four operations on it, but it couldn’t be fixed.”
However, like a true sportswoman, Jo was determined not to let her injury stop her from participating in other sports. Still able to run in a straight line, Jo began training for an Ironman Triathlon, which she completed, as well as five marathons, before the age of 30.
“I had to prove to myself that my injuries weren’t going to rule me. It’s funny how a bit of adversity can spur you on. I don’t think I would have ever done those things if I hadn’t been run over,” said Jo.
Jo also went onto complete a degree in physiotherapy and ran her own physiotherapy practice in Sydney for 14 years before moving back to Orange with her husband and three children in 2014.
The move home inspired a career change to web design and development, which Jo studied at night school at TAFE while her kids were young. The course matched Jo’s interest in marketing, which she’d been interested in while running her physio business, and Information Software Technology (IST), which she’d enjoyed at School. Jo now has her own business managing web design and digital marketing for various small businesses.
“I have quite a few health-related businesses I help promote - physios, nutritionists, massage therapists, doctors, as well as a range of other businesses. I love the flexibility of being my own boss,” said Jo.
Stepping into business allowed Jo to find time for cricket again, coaching local teams and stepping into the role of President of Orange Junior Cricket.
“It is great to be able to contribute and, hopefully, to help lots of kids enjoy and improve their cricket,” said Jo. “Phoebe Litchfield (Class of 2021) was in the first U12 team I coached when I came back to Orange. She was a stand out even then. It is fantastic to see how her cricket has progressed. It is fantastic to see where cricket for women is today. It is a hugely exciting time for Phoebe and all girls who play the game.”
As a mum and former member of the Australian Women’s Cricket Team, Jo is hugely passionate about helping more young women realise their potential in anything they put their mind to.
When asked what advice she’d give to young females in sport, Jo said: “Don’t forget why you started playing - sport is about fun, being healthy and friendships. Sometimes, you can get so caught up in results and making teams that you lose the enjoyment. I think the pressure on a lot of sports people today can be huge; they are always thinking about the next step instead of savouring the moment and enjoying the process. Have your goals but enjoy each day that makes up that journey.”
Running a business and the added bonus of COVID-19 lockdowns has also allowed Jo to flourish in another area of sport. Like cricket, Ironman and running, Jo has easily found her stride at Duntryleague Golf Club, but remains ever-humble about her handicap of six, which she’s determined to lower.
“I try to play Tuesdays and Saturdays now to keep that going. I’ve always been a bat/ball person and it gives me such joy to hit a ball - whatever type - with some sort of bat or stick,” said Jo. “It’s kind of weird, but the intrinsic joy I get from a well struck shot is huge. Golf is such a great game - you can continue to be competitive your whole life and, while you will never master it, it is a lot of fun trying.”
“I had to prove to myself that my injuries weren’t going to rule me.”
Jo Hunter, Class of 1999
We welcome all ex-students of the School to join and enjoy the benefits of fellowship through regularly-organised activities.”
Olivia West, Ex-Student Association President
Kinross Wolaroi School has enthusiastically welcomed Olivia West and Sus Perkins as the new Ex-Student Association President and Vice President, respectively.
In her new role as President of the Ex-Student Association (ESA) Executive, Olivia West wants to ensure there are as many opportunities as possible for alumni to stay connected and be supported.
Among the already busy ESA calendar of events, Ms West is eager to introduce networking events in Sydney and Canberra for all Kinross Wolaroi School alumni to attend and is hoping to formalise a more structured mentoring program for alumni to mentor younger alumni later in the year.
Ms West’s main reason for joining the ESA Executive is to ensure relationships formed at School are maintained throughout life. Even her fondest memories of Kinross Wolaroi are those spent alongside friends, sitting on the steps of Wolaroi House, attending Cadet Camps and taking part in the many plays and musicals.
“We do not realise how important something is until we lose it or it’s completely gone,” said Ms West. “Kinross Wolaroi is so important for a time in our lives and, while it may be sentimental, the ESA enables all
ex-students to keep in touch and, when alumni wish to, make contact and be a little sentimental for a while.”
The ESA Executive organises the five-year, ten-year, 15-year, 20-year, 25-year, 30-year, 35-year, 45-year and 50-year reunions each year. The group is also responsible for sponsoring a scholarship that’s available to a child of an ex-student demonstrating academic excellence and entering Year 11; delivering School prizes - the ESA Prize for Outstanding Effort and The Family Heritage Award; organising Christmas drinks; and participating in careers nights.
“The School’s motto of ‘Knowledge, Friendship, Integrity’ is central to all that we do. The growth and learning that we experienced as students at Kinross Wolaroi continues past graduation and into later life. That’s why we seek to develop students throughout their time at school and support them in their career and community,” said Ms West.
This year, the ESA Executive is working towards launching an Alumni Portal; an exciting online resource that will encourage and facilitate even
greater levels of alumni participation in School life. ESA Executive members will also provide talks to the Junior School and host the Alumni Easter Hunt and Picnic.
“We welcome all ex-students of the School to join and enjoy the benefits of fellowship through regularly organised activities,” said Ms West.
There is a lot of planning in the works, however, Ms West is no stranger to hard work. Since leaving school in 1996, the former day student has spent 15 years in public service and is now Director of Regional Development for the Department of Regional NSW.
Most recently, she led a team as Director of Bushfire Recovery to deliver more than $500 million to support economic and social recovery at a local and regional level in areas impacted by the 2019-20 bushfires. She also developed the $150m Business Support Package in response to the Northern Rivers flooding events in early 2022. It’s a role Ms West loves, and manages from home in Orange while parenting Ingrid, who is in Year 5 at Kinross Wolaroi - a full circle moment.
Like ESA President Olivia West, when Sus Perkins reflects on her years at Kinross Wolaroi (1988-1991), she recalls the times she spent growing connections with other students - at the interhouse sports carnivals, Cadet Camp, lunchbreaks spent in the Quad and bus trips to HICES.
The former day student is proud to help facilitate networking and professional support opportunities, reunions and social events for other ex-students and has been involved with the ESA Executive several times since leaving School.
“I’ve only ever known the ESA to have fun and dedicated representation, and I think being able to help support the School alumni body and plan for the future is really exciting,” said Mrs Perkins.
Mrs Perkins is excited to return to the ESA Executive again in 2022 and has a special project in mind for the first 12 months of her new role as Vice President.
“I’d love to help support and continue the work of School Archivist and Teacher, Peter Stevens, by fundraising to build a dedicated facility to better house and preserve the treasure trove of memorabilia and donations that exist from PLC, Wolaroi and Kinross Wolaroi,” said Mrs Perkins. “There is a wealth of history about the School from its inception that could be shared with both the School and local community, and it would be great to have somewhere that it could be showcased.”
Mrs Perkins is also hoping to leverage on the ESA’s huge membership base to encourage more engagement, events and
fundraising activities.
“I’m looking forward to working with the ESA and School to determine how we best work together to provide support to our local communities as well as further afield,” she said.
Developing strong social activities for the school’s alumni is Mrs Perkins and Ms West’s shared passion, however, it isn’t the only thing the pair has in common. Mrs Perkins also continues to live in Orange and works at the Department of Regional NSW across the Regional Recovery Programs.
Since leaving the School, Mrs Perkins has spent her career in communications roles while raising four children. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family and friends, in the garden or planning her next home renovation project.
I think being able to help support the School alumni body and plan for the future is really exciting.”
Sus Perkins, Ex-Student Association Vice President
Mother of Wesley, partner of Adam Powell and his daughter Ivy.
Remembered by her mother and father Jo and Tony, sisters Kate and Sophie.
Ms Gullifer fought a short battle with cancer which sadly claimed her life.
She was a lawyer and environmental scientist with a deep passion in agriculture, specifically regeneration. She completed a double degree in Law and Science from UNE.
Amy was devoted to may causes and charities including RFS, Rural Aid and CAN Assist amongst others, She will be remembered as a force to be reckoned with, genuine, inspiring and giving.
Amy graduated in the Class of 2008.
(nee Salter)
1917 - 2022
One of our PLC Foundation students Mrs Dorothy Annette Salter (nee Groundwater) of Condobolin passed away on the 31st May 2022 at the age of 104. Dorothy was the thirteenth student to enrol at PLC in 1928 and went on to become Head Girl in 1934. She was a much loved mother to Anthony, Betsy, Rosemary and David and grandmother to 17 grandchildren and their families.
One hundred years ago, Orange-born George Finch reached an altitude of 8320 metres on Mount Everest, the highest any human had ever climbed.
The names Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay are instantly recognisable. The story of the first men to conquer Mount Everest will be forever retold and remembered.
Much less known is the story of Orange-born George Finch, who 30 years earlier, in 1922, came agonisingly close to beating them to the summit.
George Ingle Finch was born on August 4, 1888 and grew up on the family farm, Nubrygyn Station, to Orange’s north. It’s said he used to chase wallabies up the slopes of Mount Canobolas, and the thrill of reaching the peak and looking out over the view inspired his passion for mountaineering.
He went to school at Kinross Wolaroi (then known as Wolaroi Grammar School), where he impressed his teachers with his natural talent for sciences.
When he was 14 his family moved to Europe. There, he continued his studies and had the opportunity to climb some of the great Alpine peaks.
Finch made a name for himself and in 1922, despite considered an “outsider” by the snobby British climbing establishment, was invited to join a British expedition to climb Mount Everest.
On the climb, he pioneered two technologies that are still in use today: Oxygen cylinders for high altitudes and an eiderdown coat that was the precursor the modern puffer jacket. Neither were embraced by his British companions. They frowned at the bottled oxygen, considering it a form of “cheating” and laughed at his bright green jacket made from hot air balloon fabric, preferring their suits of wool and tweed.
Nevertheless, Finch’s innovations would serve him well.
The 1922 expedition saw three attempts to reach the peak.
The first was by a group led by George Mallory that did not include Finch. They attempted the climb without oxygen, but were forced to turn back after reaching 8225 metres.
Finch was then allowed to make his own attempt. He left base camp with Geoffrey Bruce, the nephew of the leader, Charles Bruce.
Finch and Bruce set out for their attempt on the summit.
With the assistance of oxygen, they reached 8326 metres, higher than the previous group and higher than any human had ever climbed before.
It had been a long climb, however,
and Bruce was exhausted. His breathing apparatus was damaged and it became obvious his life was in jeopardy.
With the summit of Everest just 500 metres away, there was no choice but to descend.
A week later, Mallory and a troupe of climbers and porters set out on a third and final attempt, this time with oxygen. At 7000 metres they were hit by an avalanche and seven porters were killed. The survivors retreated and returned to England.
The altitude record set by Finch and Bruce would stand for more than three decades, until Hillary and Norgay, with their oxygen tanks, reached Everest’s peak in 1953.
Finch gave up climbing in 1931 after three friends died on a climb,
but his legacy lives on in modern mountaineering.
He continued to enjoy a distinguished his career in science and in 1944 he received the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society of London. Other winners of the medal have included telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell and world famous astrophysicist Stephen Hawking.
Finch’s son was the academy-award winning actor Peter Finch.
George Finch died on November 22, 1970.
Further reading on his extraordinary life can be found in Robert Wainwright’s 2015 book, Maverick Mountaineer.
Story provided by Kate O’Neill, Central Western Daily. George Finch wearing his oxygen apparatus