Open Gate - Summer 2023

Summer 2023/2024 Edition

What's inside PAGE 4 Principal’s Message PAGE 6 Message from the Board Chair PAGE 8 HSC Results PAGE 10 Outstanding Student Achievements PAGE 12 News PAGE 13 Sacred Heart Educators PAGE 14 Social Awareness PAGE 16 From the Archives – Bowraville Social Justice PAGE 18 Artificial Intelligence PAGE 20 Gifted Education PAGE 22 Year 6 Boys PAGE 24 Masterplan PAGE 26 Celebrating our Community PAGE 28 Supporting our Bursary Program PAGE 30 Sacré Coeur Association PAGE 31 Celebrating 100 Years PAGE 32 Births/ Weddings/ Mentoring PAGE 33 Alumnae Profiles PAGE 35 Reunions PAGE 37 In Memoriam

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Principal's Message

The educational landscape is one that constantly changes, and

our sense of uncertainty and sometimes fear surrounding AI

it is an absolute privilege to lead Kincoppal-Rose Bay as we

are our core beliefs about what it means to be human. AI raises

navigate a course to meet both current and future challenges.

important questions of what makes us unique as humans and

As I look back at 2023 and think about the year ahead, by far

how do we wisely navigate technology so that we don’t lose

one of the dominant themes in education is the explosion of

our humanity.

Artificial Intelligence (AI). Though the concept itself is not new,

The challenges we face often highlight what’s important for us

its application to education became a focus last year, particularly

as humans. In these last years, the pandemic, the challenges of

with the proliferation of tools such as ChatGPT.

climate change and global conflict have all made us realise how

As a society, we began asking urgent questions around the

deeply we need community and connection and how caring

nature of AI and how we responsibly manage the technology.

for others is core to what makes us human. We desire to make

As a staff and as individuals we grappled deeply and earnestly

our lives meaningful, to understand the spiritual and ethical and

in our planning and professional learning — how can we use AI

search out others with similar values.

to enhance learning whilst preserving academic integrity and

In our Sacred Heart context at KRB, our time-honoured tradition

creativity? We hosted an evening in June 2023 where we invited

anchors us and inspires our response to the challenges of

UNSW’s leading AI thinker, Professor Toby Walsh, to speak to

the day — as it has done over the centuries for Sacred Heart

students, staff and families. With his guidance to facilitate a

communities all over the world. Our charism has framed clear

consistent approach, we developed an AI Guide for teachers

values which we hold dear.

which included examples of how teachers could use AI to enhance the student experience.

No matter how the world changes, our Sacred Heart values have remained firm and have bound us together as communities. Such is the enduring nature of values and sense of meaning that they provide.

As educators we need to be cognisant that we are at the start of this technological ‘advance’ and the landscape in five years may well be very different to today. More importantly, what underpins

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In 2023 our Focus Goal was A Social Awareness that Impels to

the classroom and is a lifelong privilege. Once again, this is an

Action. Seeking a sense of social justice is core to the Sacred

example of how we can draw from our time-honoured tradition

Heart charism, which is essentially about making known the

to respond to the challenges of our times and our context. How

love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Through this Goal, we invite

we manage the challenges of AI in education is largely around

students to deepen their understanding of Justice, Peace and

what sort of qualities we need in our approach and to strive for

the Integrity of Creation. In doing so, we encourage them to

in our students — such as creativity and integrity.

act against oppression and injustice and to always think about

At the end of the day, we want our students not to take the

humanity and how they can influence the future in a positve way.

easy way out, but to understand that learning is hard. If they

Social justice is intertwined into who we are as a Sacred Heart

use technology, we want them to know how to ask the right

community. It’s our strong emphasis on community, our bursary

questions. One thing all educators can agree on is that we don’t

and scholarship programs, our Indigenous Student Program,

yet have all the answers in relation to AI. How we approach

our commitment to helping rural and regional families, our

this unknown is very much informed by our deep respect for

JPIC program and more. In this edition you will read about

intellectual values. Janet Erskine Stuart called for educators and

specific programs such as our Arnhem Land Immersion, our

students to give serious attention to intellectual formation, to

Bowraville program and others. As a result of our Focus Goal,

discipline heart and mind and learn the adaptability to judge and

there was a special emphasis on these programs and many

act rightly in new circumstances. Our way forward will no doubt

more opportunities that were provided for students and staff to

be inspired by our values, our ability to use our hearts and minds,

engage in social justice initiatives.

our sense of discernment and as a result, our humanity.

We are now well into the 2024 school year and our new Focus Goal of A Deep Respect for Intellectual Values. This is about imparting a love of learning and ensuring our students understand that learning involves many experiences beyond

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Message from the KRB Board Chair

KRB has been very fortunate to have its School Board led by

Having been a parent of four boarders, his involvement with the

Dr Mark Sinclair. After serving the KRB community as a Board

boarders is one of the reasons that, as Board Chair, he has a

Director for the past 10 years and Chair since May 2018, Dr

great understanding of the emotional and financial challenges

Sinclair stepped down from his role as Board Chair at the end

faced by those living in regional NSW and beyond.

of 2023.

Mark is a passionate advocate for a KRB education: “All my

The KRB journey of Mark and his wife has spanned 27 years, with

girls had an outstanding time there… it produces well-rounded,

their eldest daughter beginning her education in 1997 and their

sophisticated women who have been given the opportunity to do

youngest daughter graduating in 2012. KRB was very fortunate

their very best. And I think that's an extraordinary legacy,” he said.

when Mark agreed to accept a role as Board Director in 2013

It was the hope of contributing to this legacy, that spurred Mark

and later became Chair of the Governance Committee.

to join the Board in 2013. When he was elected as chair in 2018,

His legal insights into effective governance were invaluable and

he felt he was able to see another dimension to the School

he continued to use these insights as Board Chair.

which he hadn’t fully appreciated as a parent.

“A lot of it rests with the charism and the formation that

“Board Members remain universally committed to the Sacred Heart way of educating young men and young women.”

underwrites everything. It's nothing about ‘front of church’ Catholicism. It's about a caring, pastoral, inquisitive education.”

When people ask him what it’s like to be Chair of a large

Mark has overseen KRB at a time of extraordinary events and

secondary school board, Mark said it’s important to have a highly

change during his tenure and has achieved an amazing amount.

collegiate board with a shared agenda.

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“Board Directors understand the importance of a Sacred Heart education especially with reference to the welfare of all our students and the mission of the School. They remain universally committed to the Sacred Heart way of educating young men and young women. Whatever we did was structured in such a way that was going to enhance and develop the School,” he explained.

Effective partnerships are similarly important.

“I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work with people where the sum of the parts was greater than the individuals,” he said.

“I think it's determined by the harmony between the Principal and the Board Chair.” For Mark, this has been even more critical, as he worked with three outstanding principals during his tenure.

“I was initially involved with Hilary Johnston-Croke at the end of her time at KRB. She left a wonderful legacy. And then I became Chair in the first year of Maureen Ryan’s principalship. I worked for five years with Maureen, and this has been a highlight of my professional career."

“I was then involved in leading the selection panel, which worked to find our current Principal, Erica Thomas. During 2023 we ensured that Maureen's legacy was well established, and also that Erica had plenty of clean air to implement her role as our leader of the community,” he said, As Erica finished her first year as Principal, Mark felt it was the right time for renewal, so is leaving the position of Board Chair.

Taking over from him this year is Linda Quatermass, a mother of three alumnae who graduated from KRB between 2010 and 2013. Linda was serving as the Deputy Chair of the Board and has been on the KRB Board since 2017. “I have no doubt whatsoever that Linda will do an extraordinary job in the role.”

"My involvement in this leadership role has been the most enjoyable, public facing role I've ever had,” For Mark, his days at KRB aren’t over. He currently has one grandson attending the Junior School and a number of granddaughters who will become KRB students in the future.

“We've got a touch point here already, but I’m sure it will develop further in the years to come,” he said.

Mark is humble about his contribution but hopes he has helped make a difference to the School.

“I think they've got the best out of me, and I'd hope that they have been enhanced by my momentary leadership.

“I think my involvement in this leadership role has been the most enjoyable, public facing role I've ever had,” he concluded.

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HSC Results

Congratulations to all our HSC graduates of 2023. We had 97

The 2023 Dux of KRB was Lily Wood, who received an ATAR

students complete their Higher School Certificate, the end of

of 99.50 in the HSC. This is an outstanding result and reflects

schooling credential in NSW. Their achievements represented

Lily’s commitment to learning. Lily is studying a Bachelor of Law

many stories of academic growth and personal bests. A key

and Science at Sydney University. Congratulations also to Elissa

strength of this cohort was their commitment to achieving

Hood, who achieved 6th in the State in Design and Technology.

excellence in learning in a diverse range of areas. Some of the

These results reflect the fact that each member of the Class

highlights included:

of 2023 followed their passions and interests, and embraced an attitude of lifelong learning. This will enable them to

• KRB students performed above the State HSC Examination

achieve so much in their future as they embark on a variety of

averages in 31 out of 34 courses.

courses and careers.

• 62 of our Year 12 students and all our five accelerants were

The characteristics of this group — their energy, humour,

recognised as NESA Distinguished Achievers, achieving

positive outlook and desire to build community while at

Band 6 results across 21 different courses.

School — will be ones they will carry into the future. They will

• 38% of students achieved an ATAR over 90 and over

continue to be strong influencers and compassionate young

two-thirds of our students achieved an ATAR over 80. This

women who will no doubt be leaders of the future in many

has enabled them to access a wide variety of post school

areas. The Class of 2023 had an amazing impact on students

options.

from our younger years. We also thank the families who supported them along their journey at KRB.

• A significant component of last year’s HSC was the

We wish our 2023 graduates every success in the coming

number of students who received nominations for

years and look forward to hearing of their journeys,

Visual Arts, Art Express, Drama, OnStage, Design &

adventures and all the wonderful moments they will no doubt

Technology and SHAPE. KRB received 25 nominations

experience. Graduates, keep in mind Madeleine Sophie’s wise

in these subjects. Every student who studied Drama was

advice — to have “courage and confidence” in all you do.

nominated.

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HSC Excellence 2023 HIGHLIGHTS

KRB’S TOP ATAR WAS

KRB STUDENTS PERFORMED ABOVE THE NSW STATE HSC EXAMINATION AVERAGES IN

99.50 31 34

THE MEDIAN ATAR WAS

38%

OUT OF

86 62

OF STUDENTS RECEIVED AN ATAR OVER 90

100%

ACHIEVED A BAND 6

MATHEMATICS ACCELERANTS

100%

• Art Express (Visual Arts) • OnStage (Drama) • Shape (Design & Technology)

OF STUDENTS ACHIEVED A BAND 5 OR 6

IN ANCIENT HISTORY, DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, DRAMA, MUSIC 1 & 2 AND ITALIAN BEGINNERS

Every Drama Student was Nominated

OF STUDENTS ACHIEVED

KRB STUDENTS ACHIEVED BAND 6

ACROSS 21 DIFFERENT COURSES

25 Nominations for HSC Showcases including:

60%

COURSES

2

HIGHEST BAND E4 EXTENSION 1 ENGLISH

OF OUR HSC STUDENTS ACHIEVED A MARK OF 99

FOR ADVANCED MATHS COURSE

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Outstanding Student Achievements, 2023 Our KRB team performed remarkably well at the Sydney

Molly Smith (Year 12, 2023) was the 2023 KRB recipient of the

Interschools Snowsport Championships, earning five individual

prestigious Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence. As a

Gold Medals, four Team Golds, one Team Silver, several top ten

Eucharistic Minister, reader and Altar Server, Molly was involved in

results and many personal bests. Every member of our team

all School Masses. She organised weekly prayer sessions and led

qualified to compete at the NSW State Championships.

many liturgies.

Our Year 6 Netball Team (KJRB 21) won the Grand Final of the

At the 2023 IGSA Festival of Speech, Ava West (Year 8, 2023)

Sydney Metro Schools Cup.

earned 5th place in the Senior Reading event.

Ruby Tonelli-Smith (Year 12, 2023) competed at the Australian

Year 8 students performed well in the Australasian Problem-

Swim Championships. She finished 6th in Australia for the 50m

Solving Mathematical Olympiads. Giselle Langley received

Butterfly (17-19 years) and won a Silver medal in the 100m and

a Top 10% Achiever Award and the Highest Individual Scorer’s

200m Butterfly and Bronze in the relay.

Award, while Mikhaela Dahdah, Poppy O’Brien and Chloe Zhu all attained a Top 25% Achiever Award.

Matilda Waugh (Year 12, 2023) and her sister Annabelle (Year 10,

In the Australian Mathematics Competition, 16 students

2023) were selected for the State Water Polo squads.

achieved credits. Daisy Xu (Year 10, 2023) and Giselle Langley

Poppy O’Brien (Year 8, 2023) competed at the Australian

(Year 8, 2023) both achieved distinctions and Giselle was also

Schools Cross-Country Championships.

awarded Best in School.

Felisha Kwok (Year 7, 2023) represented Australia in Dragon

Catherine Maladina (Year 9, 2023) had her photograph selected

Boating in Thailand. Her team competed in nine races, securing

to be exhibited as part of ‘Head On’ Photo Festival, Australia’s

two Silver and seven Bronze medals.

premier photography event and a world-leading arts festival.

Allegra McDonald (Year 11, 2023) represented KRB and IGSA at

Yasmine Khalil (Year 11, 2023) was selected to attend the NSW

the CIS Netball Championships. Her team finished 2nd in the

Schools Constitutional Convention at Parliament House.

tournament, and Allegra was selected for the CIS representative

Yasmine wrote an essay in response to the question “Do we need

team in which she competed at the NSW All Schools

to revise how we go about constitutional change?” as part of the

Championships, where she was selected for the NSW All Schools

selection process.

Team.

Choir Captain and HSC Music student Anneliese Hendriks (Year

Harriet McLachlan (Year 11, 2023) competed in the NSW ILCA

11, 2023) was selected to participate in Bondi WAVE, a 12-week

State Championships coming 3rd overall and 1st woman. She

course teaching upper primary and high school bands how to

competed in the Match Racing Women’s National Championships

write and arrange original music.

where her team finished 1st overall in the youth division. She also

In the 2023 da Vinci Decathlon, our performance was

competed at the 2024 Olympic Qualifiers event.

exceptionally strong. There were 72 Year 7 teams and KRB

KRB remained undefeated throughout the U/17s division of the

placed 7th in Creative Producers, 7th in Science, 9th in Legacy

Australian Schools Basketball Championships and won the

and 12th in Codebreaking. In Year 8 there were 81 teams and

Gold Medal Game.

we placed 14th in the Ideation discipline. Our Year 9 teams

At the IGSA Athletics Championships, Sarah Luey (Year 11, 2023)

competed against 73 other teams and came 4th in Engineering

finished 1st overall in the 16 Years 100m Hurdles with a PB of 14.94

and 7th in Science. Our Year 10 students competed against 72

and became the IGSA Champion! Sarah also finished 3rd in the 16

other teams and came 3rd in Creative Producers, 12th in Art

Years Long Jump.

and Poetry, 13th in Ideation and 15th in Engineering. Our Year 11

Year 7A and Year 8A Debating teams made it to the Quarter Finals

English team came 3rd out of 63 teams.

of the Archdale Competition.

Year 5 and Year 6 Tournament of Minds team achieved a Merit

Isabella McMahon (Year 11, 2023) was a finalist in the Art Gallery of

for its entry into the STEM challenge.

NSW's prestigious 2023 Young Archie Competition. Bella's work

Junior School students excelled in the Speech and Drama co-

was selected as one of 70 finalists out of 3,400 entries. Her work

curricular, with all achieving a distinction in the Trinity College

was exhibited at the Art Gallery of NSW.

London exams in Communication Skills.

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AVA WEST - 2023 IGSA FESTIVAL OF SPEECH

YASMINE KHALIL - NSW SCHOOLS CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION

RUBY TONELLI-SMITH - AUSTRALIAN SWIM CHAMPIONSHIPS

ALLEGRA MCDONALD - CIS NETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

MOLLY SMITH - ARCHBISHOP’S AWARD FOR STUDENT EXCELLENCE

U/17S DIVISION - AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

FELISHA KWOK - DRAGON BOATING

HARRIET MCLACHLAN - NSW ILCA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

YEAR 7 DA VINCI DECATHLON

YEAR 8 DA VINCI DECATHLON

YEAR 11 DA VINCI DECATHLON

SARAH LUEY - IGSA ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS

YEAR 6 NETBALL - SYDNEY METRO SCHOOLS CUP

ISABELLA MCMAHON - YOUNG ARCHIE COMPETITION

GISELLE LANGLEY - AUSTRALIAN MATHEMATICS COMPETITION

YEAR 5 AND YEAR 6 TOURNAMENT OF MINDS

MATILDA WAUGH - STATE WATER POLO

ANNELIESE HENDRIKS - BONDI WAVE

CATHERINE MALADINA - HEAD ON

ANNABELLE WAUGH - STATE WATER POLO

POPPY O'BRIEN - AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLS CROSS-COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

SYDNEY INTERSCHOOLS SNOWSPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS

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NEWS

PAGE12

NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK

NEW FERRY SERVICE

The Christmas holidays signalled the start of extensive

Beautiful summer weather has provided the perfect backdrop

building works focused on improving and modernising

to the start of our new ferry service.

facilities, increasing office and classroom spaces and cleaning our vast and beautiful campus.

The ferry travels from Circular Quay via Cremorne Point to Watsons Bay in the morning with the same return route back

Students and staff returned in 2024 to new offices in the Junior

in the afternoon. From Watsons Bay Pier, the KRB shuttle bus

School, significant upgrades of student and staff bathrooms

transports students and staff to both Kambala and KRB.

and a new layout of Secondary staff and classroom areas.

We also upgraded and refurbished our Fitness Centre, located in the Maureen Tudelope, Centre into a strength and conditioning facility, featuring state of the art equipment.

Principal Erica Thomas said it has been a very exciting new initiative for families and staff: "Aside from the convenience factor, we are putting into practice our commitment to taking opportunities to foster sustainability where possible, as this

One very special project has been the restoration of the Grotto,

will be taking cars off our busy roads,” she said. “And what

transforming it into a beautiful spiritual place of reflection.

a beautiful way to commute to school, across our stunning, sparkling harbour!”

AI INSPIRES POWERFUL STUDENT INSIGHT In an era where AI has become an integral part of our daily lives, students entering the 2023 UNSW Bragg Student Prize for Science Writing were challenged to explore how science and technology leverage and benefit from AI, as well as the best ways to navigate a future where AI is seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives.

Olivia Mackenzie (Year 8, 2023) accepted the opportunity to enter the competition with an essay entitled ‘The Enchanting Work of AI.’ Olivia skilfully crafted a narrative that took readers on an entertaining exploration of the ways in which we use and reap the benefits of AI. Her words painted a vivid picture of the enchanting possibilities AI presents to our world.

While Olivia’s entry demonstrated a keen understanding of the topic, it also showcased the creativity and ingenuity of young minds in tackling complex scientific subjects. We look forward to future editions of this competition, confident it will continue to inspire the voices of the next generation of science writers, researchers and leaders.

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Our Sacred Heart Educators

Lisa Patterson

Louise Della Franca

Director of Studies

(Former) Head of Art

I commenced at the start of the school year as KRB’s Director of

When I first joined KRB 17 years ago, there was minimal artwork

Studies. This new role allows the School to create the systems

on display. We created a specialised hanging system that now

and structures to support excellence in teaching and learning. I will

allows us to highlight the great work that goes on in the art

be supporting students and staff to achieve to their best in their

classrooms. I just wanted students to have their artworks visible

various areas. My role is focused on the operational side of things

and I have particularly enjoyed showcasing the diversity of

from managing the timetable, the subject selection process,

artworks and range of materials our students use.

assessments, reporting systems and curriculum compliance.

I am also proud of our creation of the Artist of the Month award

I am particularly looking forward to supporting students to

and the annual KRB HSC Art Exhibition, which is wonderful

choose the best program of study for their strengths and future

for staff, family and friends to enjoy and admire the range of

direction. I enjoy seeing students experience that lightbulb

artworks created by our students.

moment as they gain confidence in a task and see that they can

Another highlight for me has been the establishment of more

do it.

permanent exhibits, such as the painted tunnel leading to the

Students today have so many choices and resources — helping

MTC that shows the important aspects of the Sacre Coeur

them to navigate through this and develop skills of perseverance

society. It’s an image of Madeliene Sophie Barat and the Sisters

and resilience is our challenge as teachers. I’m excited to be

who arrived from France, who founded the Society of the Sacred

joining the KRB community and look forward to working in an

Heart and Kincoppal-Rose Bay.

environment that allows students to learn best and flourish.

Over the years, I have been privileged to see some of our students' display beyond the walls of KRB. There are quite a few students who have gone to the National Art School and are continuing to create their own works, which is wonderful.

Many students have continued producing their artworks after finishing school for their own satisfaction. The pleasure and their love of creating art has benefited them in many ways. Former students have often said they feel that the Visual Arts subject provided the most therapeutic time for them in class.

I leave KRB with many cherished moments and memories and hope my legacy is that students continue to love art and how it makes them feel.

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Social Awareness Embarking on a new Strategic Plan, with a new Principal in

ARNHEM LAND IMMERSION 2023

2023, our School sought to authentically continue to live out our Sacred Heart Mission - discovering the loving heart of Jesus and making it known to others through the 2023 Focus Goal, A Social Awareness that Impels to Action. For KRB, 2023 was a year of action as a Sacred Heart community. It was time to genuinely explore our core business and what makes us unique.

Reflection A most successful outcome was the spread of activity across teaching and non-teaching departments, encompassing staff, students, alumnae and parents. We saw the level of engagement and measured this engagement both qualitatively as well as quantitatively.

Considering our experience in 2023, we identified areas for further development in the enactment of this Focus Goal.

These included ensuring we continue to have a balanced and aligned mix of social justice activities throughout the year, with a distributed leadership model and that we build on meaningful relationships with external organisations, thus enhancing the benefit for each party.

Arnhem Land Immersion A reflection on the recent Arnhem Land Immersion written by Year 10 participants, Milly Bowman and Ariella Perkins.

Our Arnhem Land Immersion began with 24 girls and four staff members boarding a plane to Nhulunbuy located in Northeast Arnhem Land. Upon arriving, we drove to our first campsite where we were welcomed by four Yolŋu women, who are the traditional owners of east Arnhem Land. To welcome us to their land, the women gave us a special healing and smoking ceremony which allowed us to feel safe and connected to their Country. Over the next two days, we spent time at the beautiful beaches, learned more about the history of Arnhem Land and its people, and began building our understanding of the kinship system. We even managed to fit in a swim at the local pool to cool off!

On the third day, we got back on the bus and drove to the homeland, Dhalinybuy, where we were welcomed into the large community. The parents and children kindly opened their hearts and ‘adopted’ us into their kinship system, their families. They taught us, having been adopted into the system, who our family members were, and the history of their culture. Whilst we stayed at Dhalinybuy, the community took us for a few day trips to the local waterfall, where we swam and played in the water with the children. They also took us into the bush where we searched for dye in the tree roots, and pandanus to weave. We were lucky

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BOWRAVILLE 2023

enough to find and taste native honey (Guku) with the expert

a relative population of Indigenous Australians, who taught and

help of the community's elders.

shared their knowledge with us.

Every night we did a dance (Bungu) around a fire, in which we

Harriet Raper

were all painted with ochre on our foreheads and hairlines and

We all had an amazing experience, getting to know the children

wore our gifted skirts. The Yidaki (didgeridoo) was played, and

and each other, through cooking, planning, and executing

we danced the song-lines of the homeland, learning dances that

activities for their school holiday camp. I personally was able to

have been danced for thousands of years. Dances such as the

take away many memories and skills I will be able to incorporate

water dance, cockatoo, morning fog and dog helped us connect

in my daily life. Being able to connect with the children in their

to the community and land.

environment, gave me the ability to look at life from a different

Having the opportunity to go to Arnhem Land was a once in a

perspective. Bowraville allowed me to obtain knowledge and

lifetime experience that changed our perspective. It opened our

opened my eyes to different lifestyles beyond my own, along

eyes to the wisdom of First Nations Australians, breaking down

with all the students who attended Bowraville. I will look back at

previously held stigmas, and allowing us to learn more about the

our experience with many great memories.

issues they face. The knowledge which the community shared with the groups through conversations and lessons provided us

Chiara Russo

with a glimpse into the richness of the language and culture that

We also spoke with elders Auntie Brenda and Ricky, where we

has been passed down over thousands of generations.

learned more about their experience as Indigenous Australians.

We were able to immerse ourselves in their culture through song

Learning the ways of life from the community of Dhalinybuy has

and dance, which the St. Mary’s Primary School students had

also made us aware of the way we are inclusive and kind within

taught us themselves. Through this, we were able to share our

our own lives. The people welcomed us with open arms and

stories and experiences. It helped to develop some great life

hearts into their communities and onto their sacred land. We hope

skills, as well as connect with younger years and be role models

to bring back the valuable lessons they taught us to continue to

for these children. It was an unforgettable experience like none

incorporate into our own Sacred Heart community, making our

we have had before.

School just as welcoming and open as the Yolŋu were for us.

We would like to thank Culture College who ran the Immersion

Yanma

in partnership with KRB and our four staff members, Ms Jody

The First Nations Mural created for the Kincoppal-Rose Bay

Papandrea, Ms Gina Taranto, Ms Jessi Medina and Ms Sarah

campus by artist Garry Purchase has been proudly welcomed

Daff for allowing us to participate in this amazing experience!

by the community. Entitled Yanma, the mural encompasses many symbols of First Nations People and the Goals of The

Bowraville

Sacred Heart, telling a story of journey and perseverance

In September, 14 students and five teachers took time out of

while moving forward with values the School instils in its

their school holidays to travel up to Bowraville, on the mid-north

community, and carrying them wherever they go. The mural

coast, and volunteer at St Mary's Primary School. Bowraville is a

can be seen on the driveway and walkway between Barat-

very small town with a population of just over 1,100 people, with

Burn and the Senior School.

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Bowraville Social Justice in Action KRB has a long tradition of supporting good causes through fundraising, community awareness and social justice initiatives, founded in the very earliest days of both Rose Bay Convent and Kincoppal, Elizabeth Bay. In September 1882, the Rose Bay School journal records that “a little offering of £5 collected among the children” was presented to His Grace, the Archbishop of Sydney (with a further £2 later given) to go towards the cost of the Altar of the Sacred Heart in the newly opened (although still unfinished) St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.

During World War I and World War II, the pupils of both schools regularly took up collections and donated the value of their prizes to support the work of various charities, both in Australia and overseas. Within weeks of the declaration of war in 1914, the pupils

1933 SCHOOL NOTES

at Kincoppal offered “bandages, pyjamas and other requisites for our soldiers [and] £5 to buy shirts and socks for them”.

migrants learning English, and supporting staff and clients at

Over the years, the pupils continued to support charities

a centre for disabled adults. The driving force behind these

through fund raising and activities such as picnic days for

programs has long been the practical commitment to the

children from orphanages in Sydney. The 1922 Rose Bay

Sacred Heart goals, in particular a "Social Awareness which

magazine "The Gleaner" included a write up about the School’s

Impels to Action".

charitable activities and in 1933 the pupils hosted 54 children

In 2003, KRB’s Principal Mr Chris Faisandier responded to

from St Martha’s Industrial Home, a training school for girls at

a request from Ms Clare Mellon, the Principal of St Mary’s

Leichhardt, for a day of games and entertainment.

Primary School in Bowraville to engage in a holiday project for the students of her school. The request had been made to Sydney Catholic Schools, and Mr Faisandier saw an opportunity to make a connection which would benefit both St Mary’s Bowraville and KRB. In a discussion paper titled "KincoppalRose Bay School & St Mary’s Bowraville Explorations in Collaboration", he made the astute observation that

“for adults and children alike the most effective way to learn is to do. The most effective way to learn about culture – ones own or that of another – is to experience it. This is to understand it from the inside, rather than to view it from the sidelines as observers.”

A proposal to establish a program where staff and possibly students and parents could travel to Bowraville and work with local staff and community was mooted, and over 60 staff

ROSE BAY GLEANER 1922 (OUR CHARITIES)

attended a session to discuss the proposal. A call out was This tradition continued, and by the early 2000s, students

made for staff interested in participating in a program and

at KRB were involved in a range of community service and

nominations for committee members to refine and implement

awareness initiatives, including assisting staff and children at

the proposal were invited. In late March to early April 2004,

several inner city and local child care centres, working with

several members of the Committee, including our current

Meals on Wheels and local nursing homes, assisting young

Principal Erica Thomas (then Head of Boarding), Board Director

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BOWRAVILLE REFLECTION

"Suddenly, one week a year seems hardly enough to devote to this incredible cause and I am determined to do something of impact for these amazing people."

BOWRAVILLE 2006

BRIDGET (BOWRAVILLE)

Isabelle Ibrahim, Year 11 (2009)

ISABELLE IBRAHIM YR 11 (BOWRAVILLE 2009)

YR 11 STUDENTS (BOWRAVILLE 2015)

BOWRAVILLE THANK YOU

Penny Sturrock, Sharryn Naylor (Head of Junior School) and

at St Mary’s during the school holidays. Activities included

Principal Chris Faisandier visited St Mary’s Bowraville to discuss

rugby league and netball clinics, traditional games, fishing, surf

with St Mary’s staff opportunities for collaboration.

lifesaving awareness, canoeing and a cultural talk with a local Elder. KRB staff also helped with the preparation of meals for

One proposed activity was a teacher exchange, and in

the kids who attended the holiday program. The following year,

September 2004, two teachers from St Mary’s – Mr Wayne

five KRB students and two parents also accompanied a group

Ross and Mr Michael Jarrett – spent a week at KRB teaching

of staff to Bowraville to deliver the holiday program.

staff and students about Indigenous language, art, craft

Since then, the program has become an important annual

and customs. From this first activity, KRB’s relationship with

event for staff and students from both KRB and St Mary’s

Bowraville has blossomed into an annual event. In July 2005,

Bowraville, benefiting all those involved.

several KRB staff supported a Sport and Recreation Camp

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Artificial Intelligence use and to have deep ethical discussions with our students about the value of their learning and what it means to create knowledge or build transferable skills. Or to consider the emergence of new skills for learning".

According to Head of Library and Information Services, Amanda Johnstone, it is essential for school leaders to be on the front foot in discussions with teachers and students about the way AI is going to be integrated at KRB. “We saw an immediate need to address how we were going to either include or not include artificial intelligence as part of assessment tasks. We needed teachers to consider: What skills do we need to teach our students to learn how to use those resources responsibly?”

As a means of determining how this emergent technology would be likely to reshape academic integrity, time was spent in 2023 monitoring university policies and liaising with colleagues across

“No longer the esoteric stuff of science-fiction, with the advent

a range of school sectors in similar roles.

of ChatGPT in late 2022, 2023 proved to be the year in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) began to profoundly re-shape the work

They devised a range of opportunities to ensure the students

of educationalists globally. It was yet another instance of rapid

understood the risks and responsibilities associated with using

technological development outpacing policy and procedure,

technology, for which safeguards and guidelines for appropriate

legislature and ethics: an additional disruptor in the wake of

usage had not yet been developed. This was particularly of

Covid-19 that promised to reshape our assumptions about the

concern for Senior students where NESA and HSC frameworks

nature and value of learning (and teaching).

did not account for student use of Artificial Intelligence.

Inevitably, many teachers experienced a sense of existential

“We felt a sense of responsibility, as the educators, that we

uncertainty as they began to consider the implications of this

needed to make that risk visible to them, so that they could

new technology for their discipline and craft of teaching. If

increase the nuance with which they might approach the use

students will now be able to just plug a query into a website

of that technology to ensure that they are producing original,

to create an essay, where might that leave individual thought

credible work,” Trinity explained.

and academic integrity? Would it be possible to distinguish

And whilst the media has consistently peddled an alarmist

between human and machine learning? What then might be

narrative about the risks of plagiarism, in practice monitoring the

the implications for educational assessment? How might this

integrity of assessment has proven to reinforce what teachers

reshape the role and value of the teacher in future?

have always understood about the value of deep knowledge of

According to Kincoppal-Rose Bay Head of Research and

each student and their attributes as learners. Teachers continue

Professional Practice, Trinity Hastie, “Whilst KRB teachers are

to design and oversee research and inquiry-based assessments,

committed to providing an education that equips our students

monitoring processes of critical thinking and problem-solving

for a complex and uncertain future, the rapidity with which AI has

skills that constitute rich learning.

been democratised by platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude has

Rather than using assessment policy punitively, AI has created the

necessitated rethinking of some of our core assumptions about

opportunity to enhance student awareness of academic honesty

how we educate to promote the skills and attributes that will be

“We're not about accusing students or saying ‘that’s AI’. It’s about

needed for the world of work and life beyond the school gates.”

teaching them the skills and the confidence to back themselves.

Although it would be foolhardy to discount the vast array of

Our expectations in terms of assessment for our students is that

challenges associated with AI in education, its advent has

we want them to be independent thinkers,” Amanda explained.

occasioned much excitement: “This is such an opportunity for

With the Australian Framework for Generative AI in Schools to be

inquiring really deeply into the ethical implications of knowledge

implemented from Term 1, 2024, teachers have been researching

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way if you haven't got to someone there to help you,” Amanda said.

and experimenting with how to effectively integrate AI into teaching and learning. There are plenty of examples. “(In the classroom), we

Trinity said it was also important to highlight that although

demonstrate the tools. We can get students to design prompts,

ChatGPT was new, AI wasn’t. “Adaptive testing that we use in the

which we then feed into a Large Language Model, and we can

classroom has involved AI for ages. And lots of the things that

discuss the results,” Trinity said. At home, subject to parental

we do already use that technology (for instance using electronic

permission, students can use AI tools for research.

assistants such as Siri or Alexa). I think normalising it and seeing

“They can check ChatGPT or other large language models

it as part of something that to an extent, we're already familiar

for personalisation of learning. For example, they might use a

with, was an important component in our conversations with the

prompt such as: ‘I didn’t quite understand [a concept], can you

students,” she continued.

explain it to me as if I was five’.

The teachers have also embraced AI in their professional practice. “It's really good for idea generation. So as a teacher,

“It’s a real opportunity for our students to go out into the world feeling prepared and very confident as life-long learners who wield technology powerfully and ethically to serve the greater good.”

Head of Research and Professional Practice, Trinity Hastie

if you've tried to teaching a concept in a particular way and it didn't quite hit the mark, you can ask ‘what are five ways that I could teach [a concept] to this class". Trinity explained.

As AI continues to evolve, so will KRB’s response. We will continue to innovate with our use of technology to enhance the rigour and relevance of learning to our students, informed by research and connectedness with a global community of

“A lot of students find it useful as a way in, a basic source of

educators who are testing the possibilities of new ways of

information with a very critical lens and being quite sceptical

learning and working together.

then checking it. Or in terms of generating outlines and plans.

For instance: What would be a good outline for approaching a

Trinity is hopeful for the future: "We feel optimistic that the effect

response to this particular question?” Amanda suggested.

of the disruption is going to lead to higher quality teaching and learning. It’s a real opportunity for our students to go out into the

For students doing complex maths, it can be very helpful for

world feeling prepared and very confident as life-long learners

putting a mathematical problem in and helping them with the

who wield technology powerfully and ethically to serve the

working out. However, students know there’s no point in getting

greater good.”

AI to do their maths homework for them.

“Because at the end of the day, you need to do it in the (exam) room on your own. But it can be used as a companion along the

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Gifted Education at KRB

For many children, a ‘gifted’ label comes as a double-edged

children. Identification is multifaceted and uses both objective

sword. On the one hand, it’s exciting to see their natural gifts

(ability testing and school-based assessment) and subjective

being recognised and developed into talents. They can be

(teacher nomination) data.

extended and can see how far that gift can go while striving for

Once a student has been flagged through these methods, they

their personal best.

will have an interview with Rachele. “In that interview, we learn

However, some children may feel that being gifted could affect

about their learning preferences, their academic interests, the

relationships with their peers, so they may be reluctant to

interests beyond school. Parents will also provide some input

transform these gifts to talents. They may feel the pressure of

there as well.

maladaptive perfectionism and its close cousin, procrastination.

“Gifted Education profiles are personalised documents written

Rachele Rugiero, Kincoppal-Rose Bay’s new Head of Gifted

and shared with all the teachers. These profiles include

Education, is fully aware of these dilemmas. She is doing her

recommendations for the ways in which teachers can respond

best to make sure identification of giftedness enhances a

to the needs of the students in their classroom. The purpose

student’s education and helps them go further.

of identification is to respond to the needs of each of these students.” she says.

The Gifted Education program at KRB is inclusive of all gifts, whether intellectual, sensomotor, or creative. Underpinned

For students who have gifts in the areas of music or sport, it

by Gagne’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent, a

could mean the ways that the school can best support their

research-based framework supporting effective teaching and

education while they’re juggling multiple pressures.

learning within a gifted education program, it considers both a

“In addition to intellectual giftedness, we have some students

student’s inherent abilities and their development into talent.

who are elite athletes, we have some students who are musically

The model shows how various factors can affect this

talented, so it's about being able to support them and ensure

developmental process. “A student who is recognised and given

that they're getting what they need.

suitable adjustments to achieve can enhance their giftedness

For intellectually gifted students, their additional needs might mean

and build capacity to develop their talents,” Rachele explains.

the need for acceleration in their area of strength. All students are

It also describes the factors in a student’s life that can both

currently grouped in Year 7 to 10 for Mathematics with plans to

help and hinder growth. “It's an empowering model for teachers,

expand the ability grouping structure for other subjects in 2024. In

because they can see how their role can be a significant catalyst

these classes, they will complete the course work at a faster pace

for that developmental process. Intrapersonal factors such as

with greater levels of challenge and complexity.

volition and motivation are also crucial factors,” she says.

Year 9 student Emily has enjoyed the extra challenge.

Since Rachele joined KRB last year, she’s devoted many hours

“Before doing accelerated maths, I was finishing with half an

to building the program. The first step is identifying the gifted

hour to go. I'd be getting extension work, but it was just me and

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maybe one or two other people. Whereas now it’s the entire

She’s also on the lookout for maladaptive perfectionism. “It's

coursework,” she says.

a fine line between ‘healthy' perfectionism and maladaptive perfectionism. Maladaptive perfectionism and procrastination

The gifted program also gives students other opportunities for

can be contributing factors for underachievement.

enrichment, through external competitions such as the da Vinci Decathlon, a curriculum-based competition allowing students

“Another challenge is the ‘forced choice dilemma’, the belief

to collaborate and do extension work on topics including art,

held by some intellectually gifted students that they must

poetry, maths, ideation, engineering and code breaking.

choose between academic achievement and peer acceptance.”

Rachele continues.

“The challenge is off grade level. It provides the opportunity for divergent and creative thinking to solve problems,” Rachele

When these challenges are identified, the KRB academic team

explains.

works together with the pastoral care and counselling teams and parents to provide holistic support.

Year 8 student Ava competed in the 2023 Festival of Speech where she received a place in her Reading final. “I was

For the students, the program has been invaluable.

competing with Senior students. So it's not only meeting new

“I had an awareness that I was maybe good at certain subjects.

people within your own year, but meeting people in different year

But the gifted program really reinforces that and extends you

levels when you’ve got that common interest,” she explains.

more than you thought you could be,” Year 8 student Giselle says.

There are also plenty of Mathematics, Engineering, English and

“Before the program, most of the talents that were highlighted

STEM based competitions to be a part of.

were sport or drama related. I knew I was good at schoolwork,

It’s not just the successes that are monitored. Gifted students

but this has given us more opportunities,” she says.

can experience a range of challenges that can affect their

Rachele says ultimately, it’s about giving KRB students the

schooling experience.

opportunity to strive to achieve their personal best.

“A really important part of the program is to identify and respond

“To go out into the world and use their gifts to make a

to students at risk of underachievement. There are a range of

difference. To be those ground-breaking scientists, innovators,

reasons for underachievement – part of the gifted program is

designers, writers, advocates for world peace… whatever their

to continuously track a student’s progress, then meet with that

path will be, the goal of this program is to inspire intrinsic

student, and using Del Siegel’s Achievement Orientation Model

curiosity, encourage further exploration and lifelong learning.”

(UCONN) as a basis, determine possible reasons and implement suitable interventions,” Rachele explains.

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Year 6 Boys 2023 At the end of 2023, we said farewell to our Year 6 boys who have

“I like how we get all these facilities like the swimming facilities in

made an outstanding contribution to the life of our Barat-Burn

the MTC and using them for playing basketball, netball, a lot of

Junior School.

different things. And I also like the boys sport too.” – Kailu

Many of the 2023 cohort of Year 6 boys have been with KRB

“I really like the enrichment program. It's like a good learning

since they were in the ELC. They, along with our Year 6 girls,

system and we get to try some new things.” – Sebastian

are a testament to the quality education that happens in our

“I like how we have girls in our school because there's more

Junior School.

socialising.” – Robert

Principal Erica Thomas said the co-educational learning

“I loved camp. We went to Canberra at the end of Term 3. We

environment at the primary level benefits both genders and

saw old Parliament House and the new Parliament House as well

helps all students thrive: “The girls who can be a little more

as a museum of the history of Canberra.” – Henri

anxious but also social, learn to relate really well to the boys - it

How do you think Kincoppal-Rose Bay is different to other schools?

normalises things.

“What I watch happen for the boys is that they love the competition with each other and with the girls. Girls are a little

“At my sister's school, because it's a big group she says that

more mature so the girls help lift the boys in terms of maturity

it's hard to get to know everyone. Here it's very easy to get to

and build interest in things they wouldn’t normally be interested

know each other. So that creates like a sense of belonging and

in,” she said.

friendship with almost everyone.” – Sebastian

“The energy the boys bring really adds something. They have

“I like how the boys here are kinder and less rough.” – Thomas

made such a great contribution to things like band and I know

“I think the teacher gets to know us better, and it's easier to

they've thrived academically,” Erica said. This year many of

know each other." – Derek

them have achieved Distinctions and High Distinctions in the

“I've been able to have so many opportunities, as well as like

Australian Maths Trust Competition, MANSW Mathematical

enrichment, there's lots of competitions we can do like Da Vinci,

Investigations and ICAS. Their results in competitions such as

Tournament of the Mind, Maths Olympiad, all these things that

da Vinci Decathlon and Maths Olympiad were impressive, often scoring in the top 10%. Two students received competitive

you wouldn't be able to get at many other schools.” – Finley

scholarships to highly respected secondary schools.

“There’s this activity called Wild Time, where you can go down

Many are heading to boys’ schools around the eastern suburbs

to the bush. That's not an opportunity that many other schools have and it’s just really fun.” – Alexander

or north shore and are excited about the next step of their education. The boys have shared with us below the many things

How has KRB prepared you for high school?

they enjoyed about their Sacred Heart Education at KRB, as well as what they’re looking forward to in high school and beyond.

“They’ve transitioned the type of homework we get. They’ve

What is your favourite thing about KRB?

one large sheet with stuff you have to do.” – Henri

prepared homework, so it’s due on different days rather than just

“My favourite thing about KRB is the boys - we’re all good

“When I started in Year 4, I didn’t have as much confidence.

friends. There aren’t separate groups and not many arguments.”

But because of all the opportunities, it allows you to build your

– Sebastian

confidence over time. And because you're such a big year group, you're able to make a lot of friends. And that has prepared me

“I think it's easier to get to know all the different boys. It's easy to connect.” – Derek

for high school.” – Owen

“I like the opportunities we get. Like Boys Rec where all the boys

“The enrichment kids, they have to do a lot of work so the transition to the high school won’t be as hard because we

got to play sport at lunchtime with Mr Millard.” – Ben

already get a lot of homework.”– Moses

“I like how the sport is done, I like how you get to pick what you want to do.” – Louis 22

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“Enrichment students have been given at least three tasks a

“I'm really excited because they have a wider range of sports.

week for a solid two years. So I think it's prepared lots of those

They have fencing which I might take up. I'm really excited about

students for what it's like to actually get real homework in high

the debating competition that they have because I did debating

schools.” – Finley

at Kincoppal-Rose Bay.” – Noah

“They put a lot in the day. So it burns a lot of energy and it

What are you hoping for in the future?

toughens you up.” – Thomas

“I want to do something in the arts. Music or sketching or

“I feel that Kincoppal-Rose Bay has really moulded us into being

something along the lines of that.” – Thomas

the best people that we can be. It's really preparing us for the

“I want to get good enough grades so I can get a decent job.” –

later stages in life.” – Alexander

Kailu

What are you looking forward to about high school?

“I hope to study overseas one day, so I'm I think it will be

“I would like to learn a lot about politics, about history and how

instrumental in providing me with the opportunities I need later

we got here, and how to make each other better.” – Sebastian

throughout my life.” – Alexander

“In high school, I'm really looking forward to all the opportunities, like

“I kind of want to be an engineer.” – Henri

the different sports and clubs and co-curricular activities.” – Ben

“I want to do something with Maths. My dad's an accountant. So

“I’m looking forward to more practical work in chemistry.” – Moses

I want to be one of those as well.” – Owen

“I’m looking forward to a wider variety to study.” – Kailu

“I probably want to be a cricket player or an AFL player.” – Ollie

“I'm excited for more options for sports I get to do. I’m also

KRB wishes the Year 6, 2023 boys, cohort the very best of luck

excited about learning things that I’ve chosen to learn. You pick

as they embark on their high school journey in the coming year.

your studies you’re interested in. I'd love to do that.” – Robert

They have made a great impression on our community, growing into kind, intelligent and strong men who strive to make the

“I'm excited and interested in going to Geography then going to

world a better place. We know their future is bright as they have

Maths and going to English then Commerce and all these other

been so well prepared by their Sacred Heart education at KRB.

subjects then eventually branch out in Year 10 and for the HSC.” – Finley

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Kincoppal-Rose Bay Masterplan Much work has been done on KRB’s long-term Masterplan, which will offer benefits to every student at the School.

The Masterplan has been approved as a State Significant Development Application by the NSW Government.

We have had very positive feedback about the new access road from Vaucluse Rd and are now finalising all the plans for Stage 2, the Years 5 and 6 Learning Space.

As well, we are delighted to announce the refurbishment of the Hughes Centre, to be transformed into a Performing Arts Centre in 2024.

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HUGHES CENTRE

The Hughes Centre project will refurbish the existing auditorium, stage and gallery into a contemporary learning environment,

If you are interested in hearing about these Junior

focusing on the performing arts. It will consist of

or Senior School developments, please contact:

• Three general learning areas, two of which will open into a

Mary Cook

theatre with retractable seating or a theatre in the round

Director of Advancement & Community

• A state-of-the-art lecture theatre

T: 9388 6024 E: cookm@krb.nsw.edu.au

• Music equipment and storage facilities, which can also be used as a dressing room and a staff collaboration area

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Celebrating our Community 2023 FATHERS & SIGNIFICANT FATHER FIGURES Two community celebrations were held in 2023 to celebrate Father’s Day in September. Over 200 fathers, relatives and carers enjoyed breakfast with the Junior School children, then had the opportunity to visit the children’s learning spaces.

The Senior School Father Daughter Dinner was a very special evening with over 650 attending including a record number of Year 12 fathers, at what is seen as a favourite event for them. Thanks to John O’Rourke, father of Edie, who was an outstanding MC.

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SANDWICHES & SONG Over 100 alumnae from the Rose Bay, Kincoppal and KRB classes of 1938 to 1973 attended Sandwiches & Song in October, beginning with Morning Tea which was followed by a liturgy in the Chapel and then lunch. The guests enjoyed a beautiful performance by the Junior School Choir.

Guest speaker, Vanessa Gorman (KRB, 1978), spoke movingly on the impact that her Sacred Heart education had had on her, her mother and her sisters, and more recently on her daughter Frankie, the second recipient of the Mary Shanahan RSCJ OAM Scholarship. Vanessa strongly encouraged the guests present to support the Bursary Program, noting the difference that it had made to Frankie, who completed her Higher School Certificate in 2023.

It was also a special opportunity for the grandchildren of attendees to come to the MTC to visit their grandmothers.

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Supporting our Bursary Program KRB LONG LUNCH 2023

The decision that Kate and Bruce made to send their three daughters to KRB was not an easy one and required much sacrifice. “We have done this though, as we believe education, opportunities and friendships are the greatest gifts we can give our children. We didn’t send our daughters to KRB for the prestige of a private Sydney school, we sent them for equality in education and we didn’t want them to be disadvantaged by distance.”

Kate also emphasised the importance of the friendships that each of her daughters and she and her husband Bruce had developed over many years. “Everyone has a friend during each stage of their life, but it's your school friends that are in all stages of your life.”

Kate’s final words were about the impact that the Bursary Program had on her family.

“From 2017 to 2020 we experienced the harshest and longest drought on record. We had no income for three years and had our three daughters all boarding at the KRB. As a family, we cut back on everything we could. All families of boarders who were impacted by the drought were able to apply for increased financial support. The generosity was incredible, and it allowed us and many other drought-affected families the security to complete our children's education. KRB really is about community and spirit. Bursaries can be game changers when deciding to send our children to boarding school. None of us expect a free education by any means, however, a little bit of assistance is so graciously appreciated.

If you can, please give generously in support of today to enable

The KRB Bursary Long Lunch was held on Friday 4 August at the

more country boarders the same experience we’ve had.”

Hyatt Regency Hotel with over 500 parents, alumnae and past

Her encouragement and the incredible generosity of so many

parents from country NSW and Sydney, business companies

present as well as all those who sponsored the Lunch, donated

associated with the School and a number of members of staff

prizes and participated in the event, enabled the School to raise

in attendance. Vince Sorrenti did a fabulous job as MC and Brad

over $235,000.

Blaze, Speed Painter, provided wonderful entertainment and

If you would like to find out more about the Bursary

three great paintings to sell! It was also good to have great piano

Program or are interested in making a Bequest to the

playing by Scot Finnie, The Piano Man.

School, please contact:

Parent and alumna Kate Yabsley (Ryan, KRB 1988) from

Mary Cook

Nyngan spoke movingly of her time as a KRB parent of three

Director of Advancement & Community

daughters. She explained how each day she and her children

T: 02 9388 6024

would travel more than 50 kilometres each way to get to

E: cookm@krb.nsw.edu.au

primary school. “In times of flood, we would have to cross the creek by boat, we would slip and slide through kilometres of mud after rain. And during the drought and short winter days, there were endless amounts of kangaroos, emus and feral pigs to deal with on our road.”

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Sacré Coeur Association PRESIDENT’S REPORT, ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, 3 DECEMBER 2023 For me, the greatest achievement this year for the SCA has been the establishment and allocation of the first SCA Bursary, a means tested three year bursary for a relative of a Sacred Heart alumnae who would not otherwise be able to receive a Sacred Heart education. I thank every committee member past and present for their hard work in the establishment of the SCA Bursary – a gift that will change the lives of many young women into the future.

To support our philanthropic endeavours, the SCA has launched a range of merchandise, including umbrellas, tote bags, bangles, tea towels, caps and visors. We have been selling these at many school events and they are proving to be hugely popular. We look to further expand our range of merchandise and platforms

The SCA has had a fantastic and productive year. We been able

for selling in the new year.

to carry out so many of our traditional events and acts of service,

I would like to thank outgoing SCA committee member Shauna

and have introduced many new ideas, concepts, events and

Laverty for her years of hard work and commitment to the

connections which have modernised the committee, engaged

committee and in her two years as secretary. Shauna has been a

our younger alumnae and allowed us to work with the School on community and social justice issues.

great support to me in my role as President.

The School also held the first ever Alumnae weekend which

Since her appointment as KRB Principal, Erica Thomas has shared our vision to make constructive, positive change in how

included three reunions of the classes of 1993, 2003 and 2018.

we operate. I thank her for valuable and ongoing support. I would

These alumnae were delighted to be able to tour the School and

also like to thank Deputy Principal Elizabeth Clark, Director of

take in the developments.

Advancement & Community Mary Cook, Alumnae Relations

We were able to catch up with the outgoing Year 12 Class of

Coordinator Victoria Dalton, Director of Mission Brennan Sharpley

2023 for lunch at the end of Term 3. This was a wonderful

and the KRB staff for their continued support of the SCA.

opportunity to wish the girls well for their upcoming exams and

After six years, one as an ordinary member, two as vice president

to reassure them that despite leaving school, they will never

and three as president I hand the baton over the exceptionally

leave our Sacred Heart family.

capable and equally passionate Josephine Giaouris. I feel

A highlight of the year would have to have been Sandwiches

grateful to have been able to lead a group of such capable,

& Song that the School and Association hosted in October.

compassionate women who share my same love for the School

With over 100 attendees the day was full of friendship and lots

and its value and legacy.

of storytelling. Our guests enjoyed the vocal talents of the Junior

Thank you

School Choir led by the Head of Music, Mr Mark Stubley.

Georgina Senes (Gale, 1994)

2023 has seen membership to the SCA change from enrolment

KRB would like to thank Georgina Senes for her leadership

on leaving KRB to enrolment on entering KRB. This change

of the Sacre Coeur Association for the past three years.

ensures that every child who is educated at KRB can be a

The School has greatly appreciated Georgina’s wonderful

member of our SCA family, regardless if their stay at the School

commitment to the Association and her desire to ensure that

was for a long or short time.

alumnae of all ages – from the youngest in the Class of 2023

2023 also saw the SCA co-host two hugely successful barbecues

to the older members – are included and cared for in the best

with the Year 12 Leadership and Mission Teams. The first held

way possible. Georgina has been involved in so many areas of

at the beginning of the year raised money that was donated to

KRB’s school life and the School is very grateful for the support

the Red Cross for the victims of the Turkiye Earthquake and the

she has given, both to the Association and to KRB.

second supported the Steptember campaign, to raise money for Cerebral Palsy. More than $10,000 was raised and donated for these two worthy causes.

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Celebrating 100 Years

Shirley was delighted to share the photos and letter that she

Shirley O’Shea MBE

received from King Charles and Queen Camilla to commemorate

In 2023, we celebrated the 100th birthday of Shirley O’Shea

this special milestone. Shirley also received a letter from the

(McAllister, K, 1938) MBE, our oldest living alumna, with an

Governor General of Australia, David Hurley.

afternoon tea at Kincoppal-Rose Bay.

Happy 100th Birthday, Shirley O’Shea MBE!

Many memories were shared from Shirley’s school days at Kincoppal. Archivist Tracy Bradford presented Shirley with mementos and copies of some of the school magazines printed at the time Shirley was at school.

Shirley was born in Sydney in 1923 and has lived in Sydney for most of her life. She grew up within a medical family and married the late Dr Desmond O’Shea, an obstetrician. Shirley has always been actively involved in Sydney’s cultural and charitable life, earning an MBE for her philanthropic work in 1974. She is very passionate about Art and has been a member of the Art Gallery Society of New South Wales since the Art Gallery’s members organisation commenced in 1953. She is its longest-serving member.

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Births

Mentoring

Congratulations to Madeleine Gaze (O'Brien, 2011) and Carter

The KRB Connect Mentoring program is operational with

Gaze on the birth of Mackenzie Jean Gaze on 12 September 2023.

responses analysed from potential Mentors and Mentees and connections made for many participants. Applications have been received from healthcare workers, architects, lawyers,

Weddings

property managers, technology and strategy consultants, taxation advisors, accountants, small business owners and primary school teachers.

Congratulations to the following Alumnae who were married in

The mentoring program continues to be promoted through

the Kincoppal-Rose Bay School Chapel in 2023.

social media and alumnae communications. The intention is to grow the program with specific attention focusing on growing the mentee base. Currently, we have an abundance of wonderful Alumnae in the Legal, Medical, Marketing and Public Relations, Consulting and Technology fields Madeleine Fernon (2011), currently working as a Primary School Teacher, joined the program to seek assistance on how to deliver high quality education to all her students. Madeleine was matched with Lisa Mauric (2004) who has also taught at Catholic Primary schools and now owns her own educational facility. Both candidates completed the same degree at the same university. Madeleine is currently studying a Certificate

Amber O’Keefe (2000) and Daniel Southwell-Keely, 23 September 2023

of Gifted Education at UNSW which coincidentally, Lisa also completed earlier in her career. Madeleine and Lisa have met several times and Madeleine has found Lisa’s knowledge, advice and experience a great help in guiding her with her educational and employment choices.

Please contact Alumnae Relations Coordinator, Victoria Dalton at daltonvi@krb.nsw.edu.au if you would like to be a part of the KRB Connect Mentoring program.

Carolyn Lim (2009) and Anthony Ho, 5 August 2023 32

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Alumnae Profiles EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE

SAILING PROWESS

Alixandra Kupcik, 2002

Caroline Boyd (Aders), 1995

Alix is currently living in Los Angeles where she works as an

Caroline Boyd was awarded the Barranjoey Pin at a ceremony at

actress, singer, voiceover artist, writer and producer.

the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron in September 2023.

She commenced her education at KRB in Year 9 and studied

The Barranjoey Pin is designed to acknowledge the legacy

Elective Music to HSC Level.

and history of Olympic and Paralympic class sailing in Australia.

Every athlete who has represented Australia at either an

After graduating from KRB, Alix attended the Academy of Film,

Olympic Class World Sailing Championship, International Yacht

Theatre and Television in Sydney and then moved to New York

Racing Union (IYRU) Women’s World Championship, Olympic

City to pursue her dreams of acting, singing and performing.

Games or Paralympic Games prior to 2006 and achieved a

She spent a a summer at The Actors Studio in NYC and then

Top 10 performance receives a uniquely numbered pin to

pursued a career in Cabaret where she spent the next five years

commemorate their achievement.

singing in venues in Sydney, Melbourne and New York with two productions of her own shows, New York a State of Mind and

Caroline’s love of sailing began as a child where she sailed small

Reflections. She went on to curate a series of stage productions,

dinghies (Flying Elevens) at the Vaucluse Amateur 12ft Sailing

including Orpheus and the Sydney premiere of John Patrick

Club. After school, whilst studying at Sydney University, Caroline

Shanley's Academy Award-winning play, The Big Funk.

joined the Sydney Uni Women's Sailing Club, where she became the President of the Sailing Committee and sailed in intervarsity

In 2016, Alix moved to Beverley Hills, California where she

competitions. After leaving university, Caroline began sailing

recently launched her business, LA Connect. LA Connect

Ynglings, which for a brief time became an Olympic class.

focuses on connecting talent, businesses and startup brands (with a particular focus on Australian brands) and talent new to

She was later selected for the Australian Yngling class team which

Los Angeles.

spent three years campaigning for the 2004 Olympics; travelling throughout Europe competing every year on the Olympic class

Alix was excited to recently be chosen to appear in the 2023

circuit (and back home in Australia each summer). During that

Mailchimp global commercial campaign which can currently

time, Caroline was an NSWIS and AIS Scholarship holder, was

be found on billboards, online platforms and television screens

twice nominated for Australian Female Sailor of the Year, and won

across the globe.

state and national titles, as well as placing at many European and World Championship events. Her best international results were 1st at the 2002 Pre-Olympics Test Event in Athens, Greece, 2nd at the 2003 Hyeres Olympic Classes Race week in France, 9th at the 2003 Open World Championships and 7th at the 2004 Yngling Open World Championships. Caroline now works as a Communications Manager with a NSW Government agency.

Her two sisters also attended KRB; Anne-Maree (1988) now a consultant anaesthetist in Victoria and Elizabeth (1989) the Gallery Curator at the Mudgee Arts Precinct.

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Alumnae Profiles EXPERIENCE IN DEFENCE

EXCELLENCE IN MBA

Lara Bartos (2022)

Sowan Hong (2008)

After graduating from KRB I joined the Air Force as part of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Gap Year Program. I spent my first few months doing Basic Military Training in Wagga Wagga.

The course includes fitness, discipline, military knowledge, weaponry and field craft. With 5.00am wake ups everyday, marching everywhere, getting yelled at by instructors and having to measure my sheets while making my bed every morning, it

Congratulations to Sowan who has recently been awarded

was certainly not easy! My all-time-low was one night when we

the Said Prize at the University of Oxford, UK, awarded to the

were "out field," we had been sand-bagging until 2.00am and I

student with the best academic results amongst the 350+

had to be up for guard duty soon, so my pit-mate and I decided

cohort. Sowan completed a Master of Business Administration

not to put up our hootchie (tarp to cover us while we slept).

(MBA) in 2021 and graduated with Distinction.

I was awoken an hour later by intense thunder and lightning and

After graduating from KRB in 2008, Sowan attended the

torrential rain. My clothes and my sleeping bag were drenched,

Australian National University (ANU) where she completed a

I was freezing cold, and my buddy and I tried to set up our

Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and Finance

hootchie in the dark without rope. Fortunately, experiences like that are few and the resilience you build is invaluable.

with a High Distinction.

After I graduated Recruits, I went to and enlisted as Air Force

Sowan is currently working in Jordan as an investment professional at a Private Equity firm, Federated Hermes GPE,

Security. My employment training involved activities such as

as part of the European investment and portfolio management

combat first aid, self-defence, patrol and guard, pistol shooting, advanced assault-rifle training and knowledge of Air Force

team. Sowan also worked as a Risk Consultant at KPMG across

assets and rules of engagement. After graduating, I posted

Sydney, London and Edinburgh offices, and as a senior Internal

to 27 Squadron at RAAF Base Townsville where I spent the

Auditor and Finance Manager at Legal and General Investment

remainder of my year. I operated as part of 27SQN Security

Management. She also worked as a Head of Finance for a

Flight, which involved being the first responders on base and

healthcare start-up during her MBA.

securing defence assets. During my time, I participated in military

Now in London, Sowan has offered to mentor any of our

exercises, including Exercise Black Dagger and Exercise Global

alumnae working there or in Private Equity who would like advice

Dexterity. I went to go to the extremely remote RAAF Base

regarding MBA studies. Please advise Victoria Dalton, Alumnae

Scherger located on the Cape York peninsula.

Relations Coordinator if you would like more information.

Overall, I have had an amazing time doing the ADF Gap Year.

The aspect I love most about defence is the community; no matter where you are or how different the people are, it is so easy to meet and create connections with people.

In 2024, I am becoming a reservist, moving to Canberra and studying a double degree of economics and security studies at ANU. I look forward to pursuing a more academic pathway but am grateful for everything I’ve experienced and will continue to experience through the Air Force.

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Reunions Class of 1957

Class of 1983

The Classes of 1956 and 1957 recently joined together for two

There was a great turnout for the Class of 1983 who gathered

celebrations to celebrate their 65 and 66 year reunions. The

for lunch at the 18 Footers in Double Bay in June 2023 for their

first event was at the home of Bettena Henty and the second,

40 year reunion. Many travelled from regional NSW, and several

the next day tat Sandwiches and Song. It was wonderful for so

alumnae travelled interstate from Brisbane and Melbourne. It was

many alumnae to be able to get together, with many travelling

a fabulous day, with lots of happy memories shared.

interstate to join in on the festivities! Thank you to Bettena Henty

Thank you to Gerri Coy for organizing this event.

(Madden), Penny Reardon (Boys) and Kate Perkins (Hayes) for their organization and hospitality.

Class of 1970 Class of 1993

The Kincoppal Class of 1970 finally got together for a high tea at the home of Michelle Feehan at the end of 2022. The 1970 class

On Saturday 7 October, as part of our Alumnae Weekend,

was augmented significantly in Year 7 (1965) with many girls

KRB welcomed the Class of 1993 back to Kincoppal-Rose

arriving from Rose Bay, due to a decision that all the girls at Rose

Bay for their 30 year school reunion. Alumnae travelled from

Bay would have to become boarders from Year 7. The group

regional areas of NSW to attend the school tour and enjoyed

remembered their fabulous teachers Mrs Fox, Mrs Bourke, Mrs

refreshments on the Harbour Terrace afterwards.

Radziminski, Ms Barbarian, Mrs Guy as well as Sr Hayes, Sr Kenny, Sr Hore, Sr Kennedy and many more. They

Many of this group were impressed with the addition of the

reminisced about rounders on the point, the Sickroom at the

Maureen Tudehope Centre, the Jean Marie Flynn Year 12 Learning

door to the Flat roof and Sr Hayes borrowing a student’s car to

Hub, the conversion of the Sheldon Swimming Pool into the

drive ill students to their homes!

Dunphy Foundation Outdoor Learning Space and the landscaped area for educational and recreational activities and learning.

Alumnae travelled from Queensland, Melbourne, Berrima and the Central Coast. They saluted those who were unable to join them for

Thank you to the organisers Pip Baker (Whalen) and Claudia

the festivities and remembered those in their group who had passed

McInerney (Killian).

away; Patricia Anthony, Kerry Bourke (Barrett) and Robin Pearce.

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Class of 2018

Class of 1998

The Class of 2018 returned to school on the Alumnae Weekend

The Class of 1998 gathered together for dinner and drinks at the

to celebrate their five year reunion. It was wonderful to welcome

Royal Oak on 23 October to celebrate 25 years since graduation

back nearly 50 students from this year group. The School tour

from KRB.

brought back lots of great memories and the students especially enjoyed visiting the Year 12 Hub which they used for study in their final term at school.

After refreshments on the Harbour Terrace, the Class regrouped at the Royal Hotel in Paddington.

Thank you to organiser Georgia Strain for coordinating this event.

Class of 1986 Fifty members of the Class of 1986 finally got together to celebrate their 35 year (+ two) school reunion on Sunday 3 December. It was fabulous to have international guest Jo-Ann Chin (Foung) attend from Papua New Guinea. We also welcomed several alumnae from interstate and regional NSW. It was wonderful to hear from Dr Piera Kohout (Taylor) and Annabel Dominguez who spoke to the group after the lunch, sharing stories about the paths their lives have taken since leaving KRB. We would like to thank the Class of 1986 who have

Class of 2003

made donations, in the lead up to their reunion, to the Mary

Our inaugural Alumnae weekend continued on Saturday 7

KRB Bursary program. These donations provide an opportunity

October as we welcomed the Class of 2003 back to

for students whose families are in need of financial assistance to

Kincoppal-Rose Bay for their 20 year reunion.

experience a KRB education.

A large group enjoyed a tour of the School before moving to

Our heartfelt thanks go to Larissa Malouf (Hopkins) for her

the Harbour Terrace for refreshments. Many attended from rural

organisation, kindness and generosity in hosting the reunion.

NSW and interstate with one alumna managing to coordinate

Thank you to Justine Chubb (Lum), Victoria Dalton (Ryan), and

the reunion with a trip home from London to visit family.

Jane Lamming (Simons) for organizing the event.

Shanahan RSCJ OAM Scholarship, the Indigenous Fund and the

The 2003 year group then continued its reunion celebrations at the Lord Dudley Hotel in Paddington.

Huge thanks to the organisers, Sophie Moran, Pip Simmons, Rebecca Page and Katherine Williams.

Class of 1964 – Organiser Jill Graham. Details to be confirmed.

Class of 1974 - Organiser Susie Parelli. Details to be confirmed Class of 1984 – Organiser Sarah Stein. Details to be confirmed

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In Memoriam Patricia Margaret COYLE RSCJ AO

Pakistan, after which she returned to Sydney with some VMO

BSc(Med), FANZCA,FRCA, Dip.Med.Trop (Antwerp), Dip.

sessions at RPAH and a Staff Specialist position at the United

Pastoral Theology (Montreal)

Dental Hospital Sydney. Later she worked as a part-time Medical

27 October 1927 – 3 October 2023

Officer in Emergency Medicine at RPAH, Balmain and Sydney

Excerpt from Eulogy

Hospitals. In 1997 she returned to Northern Uganda for a 6 months term as an anaesthetist, and later a brief cameo as an MSF anaesthetist in East Timor (November 1999 to January 2000).

During her “retirement years” she made return visits to lecture and run courses in anaesthesia in Kampala and Nairobi, where she was revered for her excellent teaching and her expertise in paediatric and obstetric anaesthesia, particularly in relatively primitive conditions.

Following her experience of wars in both Africa and Asia, Patricia became a passionate opponent of land mines, joining the Campaign to Ban Landmines (CBL), as she had seen all too often the appalling destruction these mines had inflicted often on innocent civilians who had inadvertently walked into a mined area, resulting in devastating injuries Patricia’s experience in Africa made her an expert in Third World anaesthesia for which she was recognised by the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain & Ireland with the Pask Certificate of Honour (1984), and Fellowship of the FARCS by election (1988) which later became FRCA. She also became an editor for WFSA Electronic Publishing, and as an invited contributor to both the WFSA and the Nuffield Department of Anaesthetics (Oxford) courses on “Difficult Anaesthesia”.

Patricia was born in Sydney as the only daughter to Charles

Patricia was an extremely humble person who never pushed

Coyle and Hazel (née Bayliss) on 27 October 1929. In 1952 she

herself forward, and often had to be coaxed to contribute her

matriculated to University having studied privately whilst working

experience to clinical discussions, which when she did were

as a laboratory technician. Patricia then enrolled at Sydney

invariably succinct and completely relevant contributions. Sadly

University Medical School, living in Sancta Sophia College, and

her last years were marred by dementia. She will be remembered

graduated BSc (Med) Hons 1959 and MBBS in 1960. She did her

by all who knew her professionally as an excellent anaesthetist

Internship at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH), and in 1961 she

who devoted the major part of her professional life to missionary

entered the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, professing in

and anaesthetic work in the developing world.

Rome in July 1969. In 1969-70 Patricia studied for her Diploma of Pastoral Theology at the University of Montreal, Canada and

In the 2001 Australian Queen's Birthday Honours List Patricia

then began training as an anaesthetist in Auckland and Sydney

was awarded an AO for service to the community, particularly

to enable her to carry out missionary medical work in Africa for

humanitarian aid overseas, as a medical practitioner in the field

the Society.

of anaesthesia, and through the Catholic Church.

In 1981 she moved to Kampala, Uganda, as Consultant Anaesthetist Mission Hospitals 1983-84, and then Senior Lecturer in Anaesthesia at Makerere University 1985-89 where she established the Diploma of Anaesthesia and degree of Master of Medicine (Anaesthetics). When the post-graduate degrees were established Patricia retired leaving, the first graduates she had trained in charge of anaesthesia. More missionary work followed in 1992-93 at Red Cross Hospitals on the Thai-Cambodian border (Khao-I-Dang) and in Quetta,

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In Memoriam We remember those members of our community who have died since our last publication. We keep them and their families in our thoughts and prayers.

Alumnae Frances (Frannie) Fisher (Fowler, RB 1968) Jan Carroll (RB 1957) Dr Bernadette Schedvin (Marshall, RB 1957) Alys Anne Powell (Duncan, RB 1950) Mary May Kellow (Gillespie (RB 1949) Marianne Desmond (Ryan, K 1979) Dorothy Payten (K 1948) Susan Holdsworth (Hughes, RB 1956) Geraldine Hynek (Dwyer, K 1955) Mary Bayldon (RB 1959) Pam Suttor (RB 1955 & 1956) Marianne Payten (RB 1960) Nola Rowe (RB 1944) Frances McClemens (McMahon, RB 1953) Karen Prichard (K 1972) Josephine Brakey (2019) Marguerite Flipo (K 1945)

Family Suzanne Smith Roger Arundell Philip Last Vincent O'Connor Maggie Tynan John Macken Susannah (Pookie) Last Professor Michael O’Rourke AM Lawrence Coy Victoria Stephens Morna Shanahan Professor Nabeel Ibrahim

RSCJ Patricia Margaret Coyle RSCJ AO Gretchen Kelly RSCJ Margaret D’Ath RSCJ Please continue to advise Victoria Dalton (daltonvi@krb.nsw. edu.au) of any members of our community who have died, who you wish to be acknowledged in our KRB publications and to be remembered at our annual Memorial Mass.

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