MAG MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR COMPASSION | RESPECT | INTEGRITY
MUSICAL
TRANSITION PROGRAM AT MAG
PATHWAYS ISSUE 9 | SPRING 2023 TAKING THE NEXT STEP
The
FEATURES: MAG
TRIUMPHS!
VET
On the cover:
Year 6 student Thomas Cooke working on a physics activity.
On the back cover:
Teacher Carolyn Smith and Year 10 students feeding calves on the School farm.
Co-ordinator: Yvette Height
Photography: Tanya Main, Yvette Height, Chelsea Leslie
Design: Esley Studio
Printing: Revolution Print
ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Welcome to Issue 9 of The MAG
Welcome to the ninth issue of our bi-annual school publication, The MAG. It’s been a period of growth and changes, with Principal Scott Downward in his first year in the role. We invite you to find out about all the great initiatives that have been happening over the past six months, and the empowerment and growth that our students are experiencing as they continue on their educational journey.
22 TRANSITION PROGRAM AT MAG 2 Kirchhofer Street PO Box 786 Moama NSW 2731 P: 03 5480 5900 E: info@moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au
COMPASSION | RESPECT | INTEGRITY 2 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
MOAMA
20
PERFORMERS CONCERT 16 SECONDARY CURRICULUM EXPO 05 FOUNDATION DAY 4 FROM THE PRINCIPAL 6 STAFF NEWS 10 SCHOOL EVENTS 21 FEATURES 24 ALUMNI 26 FROM THE ARCHIVES 27 PARENTS AND FRIENDS 10 100 DAYS OF KINDER ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 3
YOUNG
A School of CHOICE…
HSC results are one measure of growth that we rightly focus on, however, what is equally as important to me is our students graduating from their secondary schooling, at whatever year that that may be for their chosen pathway, as people of high character who embody the values of our school – Compassion, Respect, and Integrity. A well-developed moral compass, social and emotional skills and the maturation of skills, competencies, and attributes that support our young people to navigate and have confidence in themselves in the world beyond school are as important as academic success.
What is the purpose of school?
In our rapidly changing and complex world, educational leaders, governments, and in fact educators throughout the world, are confronted with this very question.
To some, the purpose of school is to prepare students for success in their HSC studies and then for tertiary study in an area of vocational interest.
For others, school is about equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and attributes to prepare them for employment.
From my perspective, the purpose of schools is to graduate well-rounded global citizens. Schools should be curiosity amplifiers; they should instil a sense of wonder in our students about the world and provide them with exposure to a broad and balanced learning program which ignites their passions and interests.
Ultimately, the role of schools is to develop transferable skills for life.
I’ve now had the privilege of three school terms in the role of Principal of Moama Anglican Grammar. Throughout this time, I have listened, observed, reflected, questioned, and systematically reviewed the current strengths of our school and identified opportunities for future growth.
Part of my vision for the continuous development of student experience within our school is making Moama Anglican Grammar a ‘school of CHOICE’.
When I reference ‘CHOICE’ my lens is referencing an explicit emphasis on providing diverse choices for our students to tailor aspects of their learning program throughout their journey in our school to their personal passions and interests. Whether that is through involvement in our Sport, Music, or Theatre Studies Programs, through elective choices with the academic program or through participation in Clubs and Interest groups.
I’m very much looking forward to sharing some exciting developments during Term 4 which highlight how we will be amplifying ‘choice’ for our students in 2024.
MR SCOTT DOWNWARD PRINCIPAL
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
4 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Foundation Day
In Term 2 we marked our 19th year with our Foundation Day Celebrations. May 5th marks one of the most important dates and events in our School calendar each yearit is a day which celebrates the foundation, achievements, and history of our school.
The story of our School’s foundation, rapid growth, and significant development over its 19 years of service to the Echuca/Moama region is inspiring. It is an example of the power of community and what can be achieved when people rally together with passion, shared purpose, a growth mindset, and an aligned vision for the future.
The morning included a service with many special guests and valued partners in attendance, where we acknowledged and conveyed gratitude to all members of our community, past and present, who have played a part in our School’s 19-year journey. The afternoon was filled with fun sporting activities including the Foundation Day Gift and the hotly contested annual tug of war competition.
SCHOOL EVENTS
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 5
Staff Arrivals and Departures
Welcomes
The School has welcomed a number of valuable new staff into the MAG family over the last 3-4 months. A warm welcome to the following new staff:
TANYA MAIN:
Tanya joins us in the Communications and Events team for twelve months whilst Chelsea Leslie is on maternity leave.
MICHELLE HORKINGS:
Michelle is meeting and greeting, and manning the phones at our main Reception, whilst Vinka Lanyon takes maternity leave.
FREYA SMITH:
Freya has a background in administration and is assisting on Reception and with admissions and compliance.
TROY BAUERLE:
Troy has recently taken on the busy role of Property Manager.
WELCOME BACK, KATE!
We are thrilled to have MAG alumnus, Kate Mulcahy, back in the MAG fold. Kate graduated from MAG in 2018 and after doing a four week placement during Term 2, is now back working as a PDHPE/Community and Family Studies teacher for Term 3 and 4, covering Jess Byrne’s maternity leave. Kate is teaching Years 7-11 and enjoying working with some of her former teachers as contemporaries.
Kate is in her fourth and final year of her Bachelor of Education and will graduate with Honours from Monash University. She has conditional registration that allows her Permission to Teach.
Kate said that the transition from student to teacher at MAG has been a smooth one, and her colleagues have been very supportive of her. She has found the students to be great to work with and is enjoying forging new connections with them.
‘I’ve also loved seeing how this School has grown and developed, but on some important levels, has also stayed the same.’
Kate’s plans for next year after graduation are open. Of course, she is thinking of applying for teaching roles, but is still open to all opportunities that life has on offer!
STAFF NEWS
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Farewells
Sadly, we have said goodbye to a couple of our longer-term staff members who have made such significant contributions to our School.
MELANIE SCOTT:
Since commencing in January 2012, Melanie has undertaken various leadership roles in our school, ranging from the Assistant to the Head of Middle School (2012 to 2014) to her current role as Head of Teaching and Learning Primary. Thank you to Melanie for all that she has achieved and contributed to the life of our school during her near 12 years. Our students, families and staff have greatly benefited and grown from Melanie’s skills, knowledge, wisdom, care, friendship, support and guidance over the years.
STUART MARTIN:
After 12 years of dedicated service to our school, Stuart and his wife have moved to Albury for a new adventure. Stuart was our School Chaplain and teacher of Religious and Values Education, and had previously been our long-term Careers Adviser. Stuart was always one of the first to put his hand up to help out at sports days, camps and co-curricular activities. Thank you to Stuart, who always emanated warmth and calm with both his students and colleagues.
DEAN WALTON:
Dean has been with MAG for almost 7 years, and has made a significant contribution to our School. Our immaculate grounds and well-maintained facilities are testament to Dean’s attention to detail and dedication. Dean has exceptional trades skills and during his time at MAG some of his achievements include: overseeing major building projects, undertaking classroom and amenities refurbishments, redesigning and establishing new gardens enhancing our school entrances, and on a daily basis Dean has been ever helpful and obliging to all within our School community.
LISA MCBURNIE:
Lisa McBurnie has recently departed her role as Receptionist in the Primary School. Lisa has been a loyal and valued employee of MAG for more than 5.5 years, and will be sadly missed by her colleagues, students and families who are accustomed to seeing and hearing Lisa’s kind voice and smiling face so regularly.
STAFF NEWS
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 7
Getting to Know our 2023 Trainees
This year we have three young trainees with us who are doing an incredible job of assisting our students and working in tandem with our teaching staff.
KAITLIN CUNNINGHAM
Kaitlin is working as a Secondary Educational Support Trainee, where she assists students in the classroom with work they find challenging, runs testing for targeted students and helps to supervise students who have special provisions in examinations.
Kaitlin has always had an interest in teaching, after being inspired by her favourite Year 6 teacher. When she graduated from Rochester Secondary College last year feeling indecisive, her year level coordinator told her about the trainee opportunities at MAG. After reading up on MAG and the values of the School, Kaitlin jumped at the opportunity to take a softer step into education, rather than heading straight to university.
Kaitlin describes her time so far at MAG as ‘..one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!’ She loves working with the students and has been overwhelmed at how kind and welcoming they have been to her. She said, ‘Building these relationships with the students has made this experience incredible…I find it so refreshing that the kids are happy to be here in school – which makes me really happy to be here too!’
Though Kaitlin was planning to apply to commence a teaching degree next year, her traineeship has changed her mind. She has enjoyed the experience so much that she is planning to remain in education support.
STAFF NEWS 8 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
KOA LUCIC
Koa graduated from MAG in 2022 and decided to apply for a traineeship because she was unsure about what to do next. Teaching was an option she had in the back of her mind, but she wanted to get some experience before committing to a 3-4 year university degree. Koa is now working in the primary school as an Educational Support Trainee supporting younger children with literacy and numeracy skills building.
Koa’s trainee experience has already cemented her desire to pursue teaching. She has loved building relationships with the students and found them to be interested and engaged. Koa said, ‘When teachers feedback that students have made real improvements since we’ve started working together, it feels great to be having a real impact on their lives.’
Koa has also found the teaching staff to be supportive and have guided her through the process. Working so closely with the teaching staff has exposed her to a range of teaching styles that, though diverse, work well and achieve learning goals.
Koa has been offered a position at La Trobe University Bundoora to do a Bachelor of Primary School Teaching, which she will take up in 2024. The overall experience at MAG has reinforced that teaching is the right career choice for her.
DYLAN SCOBLE
MAG School Captain 2022, Dylan Scoble wanted to have a gap year before heading off to university and, after observing other graduates become sports trainees, realized it would be a great opportunity for him to do something he loves (participating in sports activities) whilst gaining skills and experience at the same time. Dylan has been assisting to run primary and secondary PDHPE, PASS and sports classes. He also helps to organise and run athletics days, co-curricular activities and assists on school camps..
Dylan’s experience so far has been overwhelmingly positive. He has enjoyed learning to make strong and lasting connections with both students and colleagues, and developing his organizational and time management skills, which will benefit him when he heads off to university next year.
‘Working with my former teachers was a bit strange to start off with, but once you get used to it, they are a great group to work with…knowing them already has made it easier to develop relationships.’
Next year, Dylan will commence a Sports Science degree at Deakin University, Geelong. He’s already been able to start one subject online this year, giving him a good head-start. He hopes to eventually become a sports scientist or strength and conditioning coach in professional sports.
STAFF NEWS ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 9
100 Days of Kinder
Congratulations to our 42 Kinder students on their first 100 Days of schooling!
The Kinders dressed up for the occasion and paraded through the primary school, showing off their 100 Days style - along with Mrs Reid and Mrs Cowin! This courageous group of young children demonstrated that they have gone ahead in leaps and bounds in the development of their confidence and independence. The fun didn’t stop there - next up was the 100 Days party, featuring dancing, morning tea, lots of balloons and an incredible cake that was very kindly baked by Hooley Dooley Cookies and Cakes. Hooray for our Kinders!
SCHOOL EVENTS
10 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 11
SCHOOL EVENTS 12 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Book Week 2023 –Read, Grow, Inspire
We celebrated the joy of reading during Book Week from 21-25 August 2023. The theme this year was ‘Read, Grow, Inspire’.
Each lunchtime, the Resource Centre team delivered fun and engaging activities, including creating a jigsaw puzzle, the ‘red hat’ scavenger hunt and designing indigenous-themed t-shirts.
The jewel of the crown though was the Book Week Character Parade, held on Wednesday 23 August. Students throughout the primary school paraded their creative and colourful outfits, along with their teachers who put in a lot of thought and work too!
Thanks to all the parents and carers who laid all the groundwork for this amazing day!
SCHOOL EVENTS ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 13
Mother’s Day Celebration
12 May
Despite the chilly temperature, our MAG mothers/aunts/grandmothers/carers came out in the hundreds to enjoy our Mother’s Day celebration breakfast.
With piping hot drinks, and egg and bacon rolls, things warmed up quickly. Guests had a wonderful time being pamperedwith manicures, massages, portraits, yoga, a relaxation corner and pilates, there was something for everyone.
Our primary students showed their appreciation for the important women in their lives, putting in a lot of effort at their pamper stations!
Thanks to all the volunteer parents and staff who made it such a wonderful morning. Thanks also to the MAG drumline, Sarah Duffey and Delaney Laffy for providing such top rate musical entertainment. Finally, thank you to all of the local businesses who contributed to our fabulous Mother’s Day raffle, and also to Moama Bakery, Cadell Food Service and 12 Good Eggs for generously supporting our BBQ.
SCHOOL EVENTS 14 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Father’s Day & Footy Colours Day
1 September
We had an amazing turnout to celebrate Father’s Day and the male role models in our students lives.
Our secondary grounds transformed into a thriving hub of dads, grandfathers, uncles, students and teachers - many proudly dressed in their footy colours.
Our volunteers and staff did an amazing job of the traditional egg and bacon cook-up on a grand scale. This was accompanied by some of our very talented school musicians, and some sporting activities and games for the energetic!
The morning wound up with a fantastic raffle with a host of wonderful prizes donated by local families, staff and businesses. Many thanks goes to our generous supporters of the breakfast - Cadell Food Service and Moama Bakery.
SCHOOL EVENTS ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 15
Secondary Curriculum Expo
Our 2024 Secondary Curriculum Expo was buzzing with excitement on Wednesday 14 June when parents, students and teaching staff came together to discuss the diverse learning pathways and opportunities offered at Moama Anglican Grammar.
Led by our own dedicated educators, attendees from MAG and further afield learned more about core subjects, elective options, advantages of the NSW curriculum and fast-tracking opportunities.
The Expo was designed with Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students and parents in mind and provided the perfect opportunity to focus on the next steps. It proved a valuable opportunity for students to explore the wide array of academic, VET and co-curricular options available and to gain insights into subjects they might not have previously considered, thereby broadening their horizons to study and career opportunities.
SCHOOL EVENTS 16 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
SCHOOL EVENTS ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 17
Da Vinci Decathlon
The da Vinci Decathlon began in 2002 as an exciting offshoot of the very successful da Vinci Program for gifted and talented students at Knox Grammar in Sydney.
The Decathlon is designed to celebrate the academic gifts of Australian youth by providing a stimulating and challenging competition run in the spirit of an Olympic Decathlon.
On 7 June, sixteen of our Year 5 and 6 students, along with Mrs Rykers and Miss Briggs, travelled to The Riverina Anglican College in Wagga Wagga to compete in the da Vinci Decathlon Regional Event. The teams competed all day and came home with big smiles and some amazing results:
1st Year 6 Engineering
1st Year 6 Science
1st Year 6 Creative Producers
1st Year 5 Cartography
2nd Year 5 Science
2nd Year 5 Art and Poetry
3rd Year 5 Legacy
3rd Year 5 Maths
3rd Year 5 English
3rd Year 5 Engineering
3rd Year 5 Overall
SCHOOL EVENTS
18 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Our Secondary da Vinci teams also yielded some marvellous results when they journeyed to Wagga Wagga on the 8th and 9th June to compete.
Our Year 7 team, supervised by Miss Douglas and Mr Macey, had to work especially hard, with most of the team new to the da Vinci style of competition.
Da Vinci Year 7 Team Results:
1st Engineering
1st Science
1st Creative Producers
1st Cartography
2nd Science
2nd Art and Poetry
Mrs Williams and Mr Liu coached the Year 9, 10 and 11 students to push themselves to the limits and, in doing so, achieve amazing results!
Da Vinci Year 9 Team Results:
1st Art and Poetry
1st Engineering
Da Vinci Year 9/10 Team Results:
1st Creative producers
2nd Science
2nd English
2nd Art and Poetry
3rd Cartography
3rd Overall
Da Vinci Year 10/11 Team Results:
1st Ideation
1st Creative producers
2nd English
2nd Mathematics
2nd Art and Poetry
2nd Overall
SCHOOL EVENTS
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 19
Young Performers Concert
On 15 June we held our highly anticipated annual Young Performers Concert, where over 70 talented Primary students took centre stage to showcase their musical talents. This wonderful concert featured an array of captivating solo and duet performances on the piano, guitar and vocals.
It showcased a variety of piano, guitar and vocal solo and duet performance items, as well as incredible ensemble performances from the Jr Drumline, Jr Singers (choir) and the two Year 5 Rock Bands.
We extend our gratitude to the fantastic team of music tutors and ensemble directors, who prepared the students so well for their stellar performances, as well as our Primary and Secondary students who volunteered their time to assist at the concert: Josephine and Zena Colacino, Rhylee Chapman, Isabella Louttit, and Cabe Ludlow. Their invaluable support behind the scenes ensured that the evening ran smoothly, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
SCHOOL EVENTS 20 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
MAG Musical Triumphs!
Australian Drumline Competition
On 12 August our Snr Drumline made its debut at the Australian Drumline Competition, held at Scotch College in Melbourne. The performance of our Snr Drumline was captivating - their efforts were appreciated by the audience and earned the following accolades:
• Overall Champion Drumline (Division B)
• Best Test Piece (Division B)
• Best Own Choice Piece (Division B)
• Honourable Mention: Snare Section (Division A and B)
• Honourable Mention: Tenor Section (Division A and B)
• Josephine Colacino: Gold (Snare Solo)
• Ella Bowler: Silver (Snare Solo)
• Zena Colacino: Bronze (Tenor Solo)
We extend gratitude to our Drumline Director, Mr Kevin Kiely - his expert guidance was instrumental in elevating the Snr Drumline to such impressive heights. The competition has provided an opportunity to showcase our passion for music and dedication to excellence.
Bendigo Eisteddfod
On 2 June our Primary Choir, consisting of our Jr Singers and all Year 4 students, embarked upon an exciting journey to Bendigo to participate in the prestigious 97th Annual Bendigo Eisteddfod.
Competing in the Novice Primary Choir Section, our talented students delivered a remarkable performance, showcasing their musical prowess. They captivated the audience with three carefully selected pieces, including “Rainbows” by Mark Puddy, “Firefly” by Andy Beck, and “Chocolate” by Kirby Shaw.
The adjudicator for the event was Merlyn Quaife OAM, a soprano performer and highly experienced music educator. Ms. Quaife commended their enthusiastic performances, impressive musical talents and exquisite singing.
Receiving first place in our section was a momentous accomplishment for the Primary Choir! This triumph is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students. We are immensely proud of their achievement.
FEATURES
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 21
Transition Program at MAG
The move from Year 6 in Primary school to Year 7 in Secondary school can be both exciting and sometimes overwhelming. Our 2023-24 Transition Program ensures an efficient and smooth shift from primary to secondary. As a K-12 school, the transition for students who are already attending our primary school is a key milestone, as they move from one part of our school to another. For new students, we work to ensure that the move from another school to Year 7 at MAG is as seamless as possible.
also be a variety of activities and events for different year levels to support transition.
In Year 6 we offer a comprehensive Year 7 Open Evening for current Year 6 students and their parents, in Term 1. In addition, we offer additional follow-up meetings and tours for families seeking further information. An orientation day and ‘come try’ afternoons are held during Term 4, where Year 6s experience a taste of what Year 7 will be like. Year 6s are buddied up with an older secondary student and given opportunities throughout the year to engage and get to know each other.
Darcy Hall is MAG’s 2024 Transition Coordinator and the 2023 Year 7 Coordinator. Darcy is working to develop deeper relationships and connections with current Year 5 & 6 students and families to support the Secondary School transition process. He also connects with staff and students at local primary schools across the Echuca/Moama region, and will be working closely with new families to ensure they are supported.
As part of the Transition Program at MAG, the School regularly liaises with Year 5, 6 & 7 teachers to identify areas of concern/ priority related to transition to secondary school. There will
In Year 7, our new Secondary students are supported by their tutor group teachers, and will continue to be buddied up with an older secondary student who provides peer support. Students also attend a 4-day camp that helps to nurture both strong peer-to-peer relationships, and student-teacher relationships.
Darcy is working on an annual ‘Secondary Experience’ schedule – a program comprising creative and engaging activities and learning experiences to promote student engagement and wellbeing; and ensure a successful and happy transition.
Any questions regarding enrolment or transition into Secondary school can be directed to: Darcy Hall (Transition Coordinator) or Lou Kennaugh (Registrar) on 03 5480 5900.
FEATURES
22 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
VET Pathways
At Moama Anglican Grammar we take pride in providing a safe and inspiring educational environment that equips our students with the skills and confidence to help create their futures. We believe in supporting students to achieve their full potential and equip them with tools to successfully navigate the world beyond school.
The School has a strong focus on Vocational, Educational and Training (VET) pathways where students undertake careerrelated study in subjects such as Construction, Tourism, Travel and Events and Primary Industries. School-based traineeships and apprenticeships allow students to commence vocational training and get hands-on experience, while completing their secondary education.
Moama Anglican Grammar alumnus Christian Corso is in his first year of a building apprenticeship with Hartley Building Co. When he realised in Year 11 that he was interested in the building trade, School Careers Advisor, Curtis Townrow, suggested work experience with a local builder and put Christian in touch with Hartley’s. After a positive work experience placing, Christian decided to study VET Construction subjects at school.
Though finishing up school early crossed his mind, Christian was committed to finishing the HSC and not waste the effort he’d put in already. In completing Construction subjects, Christian effectively completed his first year of coursework of the apprenticeship.
Christian, who was awarded the Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning and Employment Network 2022 VET Awards Student of the Year, feels that undertaking Construction subjects was the single best thing he did to prepare himself: ‘It’s given me a good foundation, ensured I knew how to use the tools, and was well prepared for the apprenticeship.’
Christian suggests students interested in doing a trade strongly consider doing VET subjects – ‘this gives you a chance to make sure you enjoy it and receive a good grounding in basic skills…and do some relevant work experience to get a feel for the work’.
FEATURES
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 23
COURTNEY LANGENBACHER
CLASS OF 2012
After graduating from Moama Anglican Grammar in 2012, Courtney Langenbacher was not immediately clear on what career path she wanted to pursue. In the meantime, she took a job at Subway in Echuca where she continued to work for six years.
After relocating to Leeton, NSW, Courtney commenced a Cert IV Business Administration traineeship with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) through Tocal College. Courtney thrived in this learning environment and won Trainee of the Year for 2022 for TAFE NSW. Upon completing the traineeship, she was immediately recruited as a Skills Training Officer at DPI, Tocal College; and has now moved into the role of Skills Training Coordinator. In this role, Courtney organizes the schedule of agricultural courses offered by the college and works with key stakeholders to deliver the training they require for their staff.
Courtney’s reflections on her time at MAG are very positive, with her especially enjoying the opportunities to go on some wonderful school camps over the years, which she believed were important opportunities to bring the cohort closer together.
‘I also valued that the teachers and staff were always so supportive. It didn’t matter what your dream was, you always had someone there willing to help you achieve that dream.’
Courtney’s advice to our current senior students is: ‘Try to stay focused, it’s only a few years of your life and you don’t get to redo them. On the other hand, no matter what the outcome of your high school studies are, there are so many pathways into careers these days, so don’t stress yourself out too much!’
JENNY PIKE CLASS OF 2010
Jenny Pike commenced at Moama Anglican Grammar in 2005 when it was a fledgling school, very different to what it has evolved in to now. She graduated in 2010 – the very first graduating class of the School. Jenny went on to complete a Bachelor of Business (majoring in marketing) at La Trobe University Bendigo, and later completed additional studies in CX Design and gained an Agents Representative License.
Jenny is now Centre Manager of 670 Chapel – a mixed use shopping centre in South Yarra. Her role involves marketing, leasing, finance, operations, retail management and risk management. One of her most crowning achievements so far is developing a community beneficial initiative that was rolled out across 50 shopping centres nationally.
Of Jenny’s time at Moama Anglican Grammar, stand-out memories are of some of her teachers – she recalls Mrs Harrison having amazing, authentic conversations with the class, and Mrs Kemp being so very patient and kind.
Jenny remembers well the strain that senior school and university studies can create. She suggest to our senior students that: ‘It’s OK to not know what you want to do. There’s so much pressure on this choice…instead make sure you first take the time to understand who you are and who you want to be’.
ALUMNI
24 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Alumni News
If you know of any exciting happenings amongst our alumni, please let us know! Send us a message at communications@moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au
Hannah Crosbie (Class of 2014) and partner Rileigh Walker welcomed their first child, Asher Jeremy Walker on 18 April 2023. Asher was born at Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton, nearby to Tatura where the family now lives. Hannah said, ‘Motherhood has been the most transformative experience in my life, it’s taught me to be humble, selfless and compassionate.’
Madison Ough (Class of 2014) gave birth to her and partner, Callum Stephens, first child last year. Leo Emery Stephens was born on 15 November 2022 at Echuca Regional Health. Madison, Callum and Leo live in Bamawm Extension. Madison is taking a break from her career as a Registered Nurse to care for Leo. Madison said, ‘Life as a mum is very busy, especially now that Leo is 9 months old, it is non-stop! He’s very curious about everything.’
Maddy Caldwell (nee Allan, Class of 2014) married Ashley Caldwell in Mount Macedon on 1 April 2022. The couple live in Geelong where Maddy is a Senior Chartered Accountant and Ashley is a Steel Fabrication Manager. Maddy said, ‘Having our closest friends and family come together and celebrate us was so special after so many lockdowns…it was also very special to have my best friend who also attended Moama Anglican Grammar (Courtney O’Toole, nee Perry) as my maid of honour.’
Polly Haimes (nee Healey, Class of 2012) and husband, Dylon Haimes, celebrated the birth of their first child – Esther June Haimes – on 10 April 2023 at Echuca Regional Health. The family have recently moved to Queensland to be closer to Polly’s parents. Polly said of motherhood, ‘the best thing about motherhood is getting to watch my baby grow and change each day, she is forever learning new skills.’
ALUMNI ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 25
From the Archives - 2008
In 2008, Moama Anglican Grammar was still very much a fledgling school. Students had moved to the current school site, but the landscape of buildings was constantly changing and expanding. The School spanned from Year 5 to Year 10. The School’s first principal, Mr Andrew Pullar was leading the school during this period of growth.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
26 | MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR
Parents and Friends Association
The purpose of the Parents and Friends Association (P&F) is to foster the spirit and core values of Moama Anglican Grammar through care and connection between the whole school community.
The P&F aims to enhance a sense of social connectedness and wellbeing for the whole school community by:
• Fostering the bond between families, teachers and staff at school social functions
• Providing assistance with school activities and at school events.
• Supporting teachers and Student Leaders in community service initiatives.
• Assisting families in need in conjunction with the school pastoral care team.
We appreciate all of the work and commitment of the P&F members, and enjoy having such a fun way to connect within our school community.
The P&F meet on the third Friday of every month during school term. They appreciate any new members who are ready and willing to engage in the school community, help out at school events throughout the year and have some fun whilst doing it!
Please get in touch via email: pfa@moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au
PARENTS AND
FRIENDS
ISSUE 9 - 2023 | 27
2 Kirchhofer Street Moama, NSW, 2731 P: (03) 5480 5900 www.moamagrammar.nsw.edu.au MOAMA ANGLICAN GRAMMAR COMPASSION | RESPECT | INTEGRITY