The Penrhosian and Extraordinary Women No. 75

No. 75

Pioneering new standards in safeguarding Moving from successful compliance, to being a world leader

Winter 2021

Artistic visions The journey of Art at Penrhos

We respectfully acknowledge the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation as the traditional owners of the land on which we stand and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. Together, we acknowledge the contributions of Aboriginal Australians and nonAboriginal Australians to the education of all children and people in this country we all live in and share together – Australia.

Contents

No. 75

Winter 2021

4

Welcome from the Principal

20

For the love of the game - Penrhos volleyball

7

Kalea Haran Principal Commissioning

22

Growing student leaders in the Boarding House

8

Academic excellence Class of 2020

24

Boarding perspectives

10

Inspiring change makers beyond the classroom

26

Chloe Cutts: her legacy lives on

12

Setting new standards in child protection

27

Winter reflections a story of courage

14

A fond farwell to Michele Hay

28

From the Penrhos Foundation President

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The journey of Art at Penrhos

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Photo gallery: Penrhos College events

18

Discovering the spirit of adventure through Round Square

TEAM Editor Claire Halliday Contributors and photographers Kalea Haran, Paula Barrow, Rowan Courts, Caroline Jenkins, Sarah Woods Design Paul Swales

Welcome from the Principal Kalea Haran Principal

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lmost eight months ago, I penned an article for the Penrhosian outlining my vision for the College I was excitedly coming to work at. I talked about my ideas, hopes and aspirations.

Now, after six months, I can write about a community that I have come to love and call my own. Penrhos is a place where relationships and connections are at our very core, where there is a strong and immediate sense of loyalty, kindness, empathy and protectiveness.

What I think I love most is that this sense of belonging completely permeates our approach to learning, as we leverage the positive relations between our wonderful staff and students in a teaching and learning experience that is full of depth, questioning, engagement … and fun!

I would like to highlight four key areas that have stood out and resonated with me in my first semester as Principal.

Genuine Penrhos is absolutely authentic. We give our girls real experiences. We encourage them to explore their passions and harness opportunities, nurturing and empowering them to become the best possible versions of themselves.

Our authenticity is evident in our facilities and resources, as well as in the way we teach. The new Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre is designed to inspire student collaboration in solving real-life problems, as the girls work together in break-out rooms using state-of-the art technology.

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Our extensive outdoor education program offers a wide range of opportunities for girls to attend camps from Year 5–10, to discover more about themselves and to grow outside of their typical comfort zones as they are immersed in real-life contexts beyond their routine. The College’s participation in Round Square - an exclusive international collection of almost 200 schools across 50 countries inspires and exposes our students to cross-cultural and collaborative experiences that build character, competencies and life-skills in our students e.g. Leeuwin sailing adventures (as featured on page 18).

Hope Penrhos is a place of hope – it is here we hope to do well … we hope to achieve. This is a place where our girls know their voice matters and that there is power in speaking up, in hoping to make a difference and having the courage to do so.

Where there is hope, there is courage. I have seen great bravery in our community – including, notably, those members of our alumni who had the courage to speak out and stand up, for themselves and for others, in the context of the Royal Commission’s report in 2019.

In the wider world, we learn of many individuals who bravely face all forms of trauma - abuse, challenge, crisis, hardship and suffering. We admire their strength and we acknowledge that it takes great courage to endure hardship and to overcome adversity. We recognise that, where necessary, it takes great strength to speak out boldly and stand up courageously for what is right and what is true.

WELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Everyone is accepted. No matter who you are, we all fly under the same banner here as Penrhosians, or Penrhosies in our Early Learning Centre.

Penrhos is a place where hope and courage are defining characteristics. Together, they combine in the spirit of making a positive difference. This is the source of our strength and the essence of our Penrhos character. I encourage our girls to believe in their power to spark positive change, to appreciate the importance of being true to themselves and to others, to find the courage to always stand up and speak out for what they believe in.

Service We talk about making a positive difference. What is most important is the contribution that everyone makes in the world; we encourage our girls in their regular community service, in offering support to those in need, in being positive and in helping others for the greater good.

Our staff and students are encouraged to use their talents to bring prosperity, happiness, meaning and purpose to both those around them, and to those further afield.

To those who may have lost their way, who may be less fortunate or less supported. To be thankful for the privileged lives we lead, in so many ways, and to look out for and recognise those who may not be quite as ‘ok’.

I hope to connect authentically with our alumni, and I encourage our Old Girls to share their amazing gifts and talents with our next generation of young women at Penrhos. This could be through joining our Alumni Mentoring Network planned for 2022, running student workshops, talking about further education or career journeys, or simply giving time.

Together, we grow each girl to be the best possible version of herself; together, we embrace diversity and celebrate all the differences that combine to make our wonderful, vibrant community.

Together, we are Penrhos.

Community The Penrhos sense of community is quite unique.

Our networks span generations and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to engage with so many different community clusters in my first six months: • I met with the magnificent ladies who make up our Penrhosian Club - mothers and grandmothers of former students and past staff members.

• I lunched with our boarder families in country WA, and was thankful to those who travelled to come and meet me and share in quality time.

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WELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPAL

• I joined our Alumni Committee to share my vision of connectedness and visited Kobeelya College to meet with our affiliated alumni. I brought away with me memories of a beautiful place, with a long history that Penrhos is honoured to share.

• I became established in our community of teachers, committed professionals who so generously share their skills and knowledge with the fun and smiles and laughter that I love.

Our connectedness runs through our programs, such as Maths Mentor - to see 80+ girls working together, older mentors with younger mentees, in problem-solving for fun is truly inspirational! And then to see those Maths Mentor alumni who are keen to come back to the College, to share their career experience and give back to the next generation of students, in recognition of the influence the Program had on their future study direction and life path.

I have heard so many inspirational stories and I still have so much more to learn about the foundations on which Penrhos was built. Ours is an ever-evolving, rich and colourful tapestry of community spirit, relationships, connections, memories and vision. Our girls are at the very heart of our connectedness - so passionate, articulate and energised in every way. Our students throw themselves into each opportunity with energy and positivity, fun and humour, curiosity and creativity.

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It is my goal, my hope, my vision that a Penrhos education grows the strength of the dragon within each of our students so that she may one day go out from here, this special place, and go on to be extraordinary in her own way … to live her life to the very best of her ability, with meaning and with purpose.

Penrhos is an authentic place, where our girls can immerse themselves in real experiences, make real connections and discover their real selves, their value set and moral compass, their passions, dreams and ambitions.

I am blessed to be here at Penrhos, and I thank the College Council, leadership team, staff, students, families and friends for making me feel so welcome over the last six months. I am sincerely proud and honoured to have the opportunity to lead such an exceptional and inspirational College.

Principal’s Commissioning

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his year’s Easter Service was a wonderful gathering of the whole school community to hear the Easter message of ‘Hope’ from our College Chaplain, Reverend Claire Pickering, and to witness the Commissioning of seventh Penrhos College Principal, Kalea Haran.

Joining Junior and Secondary School students and staff, along with many parents, were special guests Uniting Church Moderator Susy Thomas, City of South Perth Mayor Greg Milner, Principals and leaders of other Independent Schools, and members of the Penrhos College Council.

Kalea is passionate about progress in education. Prior to her appointment at Penrhos College, she was Head of Secondary School at the Australian International School in Singapore and has also worked as Assistant Principal at the Harris City Academy Crystal Palace, one of the United Kingdom’s highest-performing specialist academies. Along with a Master of Education from the University of South Australia and an MBA from Deakin University, Kalea brings to Penrhos her extensive experience of large-scale, international school operations and policy development, together with her passion for girls’ education. We look forward to this next chapter in the history of Penrhos College, under the leadership of our new Principal Kalea Haran.

The Principal’s Commissioning was a formal welcome for Kalea Haran into her new role as College Principal.

She was presented with five unique gifts, each symbolising an important aspect of the College. A Bible and candle were presented by Maddison Santoro, Junior School Chapel Captain and Hannah Claux, Secondary School Chapel Captain, symbolising the College’s faith and connection to the Uniting Church. Mia Zammit, Junior School Captain presented a handcrafted leather Book of Students that captured the entire 2021 student group. A scarf and artwork were presented by Year 11 student, Chiara Miller-Sabbioni to represent our Aboriginal students and to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land. To symbolise the Junior School and youngest members of our College community, Kalea was presented with a handsewn Penrhos dragon by Pre-Primary students Blair Baumwol and Ayla Grobler.

Lastly, the Amanda Young rose, signifying growth and community service, was presented by Peta Sanderson, Chair of College Council.

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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Congratulations to the Class of 2020 2020 was a remarkable year in terms of disruption, change and significant achievement at Penrhos College. The academic accomplishments of our Year 12s were the result of incredible commitment to achieving their academic ‘personal best’ throughout their senior secondary years of schooling, especially in what was an extremely challenging Year 12.

We know that our community – parents, staff and students - holds high expectations and we particularly acknowledge the support of the Year 12 parents in contributing to these excellent results.

2020 WACE RESULTS

2020 ATAR LEAGUE TABLE

92.65

2019

88.9

91.2

88.5

2018

88.2

88.3

90.65

PENRHOS MEDIAN ATAR

2014

79

78.95

2014

2015

2015 2016

highest performing girls’ school

2018

2019

2020

ul

in

co

m

at

of Vocational Education and Training (VET) students

eI I or high er

Penrhos was one of only 17 schools across the State to achieve 100% WACE achievement.

ple

ti n g

a t l e a st

Ce one

r ti

f

student awarded General Exhibition

Top 50 students in Western Australia

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ATAR PATHWAY 116 students

<60 60 – 69

students achieved ATAR scores of 95.00+

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students awarded Subject Certificates of Excellence Top 0.5% of students based on their examination score

students awarded Certificates of Merit

20 8

2017

ssf

1

2016

A ll s u c c e

135 eligible Year 12 students achieved the West Australian Certificate of Education

81.65

STATE MEDIAN ATAR

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (VET) PATHWAY 19 students

GRADUATION

81

ic

and the 2

ND

81.8

81.4

80.85

2017

students awarded Certificates of Distinction

>95+ 70 – 79

2 020 ATAR ACHIEVEMENT of 116 students

80 – 89

90 – 94.99

Performance of the Year 12 students with an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) who applied for university entrance. This data is sourced from the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre (TISC) 2021 University Admissions Qualification Register.

RANKED IN WA’S TOP 18 COURSES In 2020, Penrhos ranked among the top schools in WA in eight courses, based on the percentage of students whose marks were in the top 15% of all students state-wide.

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE

PRINCIPAL’S LIST Congratulations to the following Class of 2020 graduates who attained a place on the Principal’s List for achieving an ATAR of 95 or higher: Iyanuoluwa Adebayo

Jocelyn Kwok

Breanne Archer

Bianca Masters

BIOLOGY

Nikki Bakhtazad

Isabelle Milne

ENGLISH

Megan Barry

Jorja Mulroy

Annabel Bright

Jasmin Park

Sarah Burton

Olivia Power

Jade Davis

Jessica Pridgeon

Mignon Du Plessis

Lauren Rothnie

Jasmine Farghaly

Renee Rudianto

Krishnamenaka Gamage

Sophie Secombe

Ainsley Gee

Emma Secombe

Rebecca Hampson

Sonia Vidovich

Eva Huggins

Isabelle Walton

Sophia Jacka

Ailish Willett

Hannah Jawad

Mia Zito

FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ITALIAN: SECOND LANGUAGE MATHEMATICS SPECIALIST MODERN HISTORY PHYSICAL EDUCATION STUDIES

In 2021, we continue to place a strong emphasis on quality of teaching and learning, together with the assessment and moderation of our programs, particularly in Years 11 and 12. Our goal is always to improve the performance of all of our Year 12 students, whether taking the ATAR or Vocational Education and Training Pathway. We provide all Year 10 students with carefully considered course selection advice to ensure the best possible outcome for our students, across all year groups, in Junior and Secondary Schools.

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Inspiring change makers

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reparing girls for the future in our fast-changing and increasingly complex world is at the forefront of Penrhos College’s mission. Here, students are empowered and equipped with the confidence and skillsets to problem-solve, collaborate, innovate and become leaders. In recent years, the importance of study in STEM-related areas and the development of associated skillsets has become increasingly significant.

Research indicates that more than half the jobs for our next generation have not even been conceived of yet – what we do know is they will be heavily focused in STEM-related fields, an area in which females are significantly under-represented across the globe.

Learning experiences beyond the classroom help inspire girls to identify and pursue their future career opportunities.

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In order to provide real-life insight into what a future career in a STEM-related field might entail, we participate in an annual Girls in Engineering Outreach Program with the University of Western Australia.

Students work with a team of female mentors from Rio Tinto (whose new Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker - coincidentally - is one of our alumni).

The program helps to illustrate the need for girls to think beyond the conventional, in a shift towards career options of which they may have previously been unaware.

Some of our students also have the opportunity to attend a new five-day residential camp, specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with an interest in Science, Maths or Engineering. The Mining and the Lands Camp, sponsored by Curtin University, Future Footprints, AngloGold Ashanti and AISWA exposes girls to what it’s really like to study and work in the mining industry in WA. The more we are able to engage our girls in authentic career learning experiences, the more

“Our mission is to not only provide students with theoretical perspectives, but to expose them to real world experience and practical application.” Kalea Haran they are able to identify their areas of interest and consider the full spectrum of opportunities available.

The number of students going on to study for STEM-related degrees after Penrhos is steadily increasing.

Promoting pathways that are accessible and achievable, working in collaboration with industry and universities in the nurture of STEM-based education, is a vital part of illustrating to students what is possible for them. Our

cutting-edge College facilities and outreach initiatives (like Mining and the Lands Camp and Girls in Engineering) are complemented with a range of innovative internal programs and ongoing in-classroom support from learning enhancement and career advisory teams to ensure the widest and most uninhibited student view on the future.

Principal Kalea Haran is determined Penrhos will continue to shatter stereotypes, challenge

convention and open doors to future opportunities for girls. “The theme of International Women’s Day 2021 – choose to challenge – was perfectly aligned with the Penrhos ethos. We want to encourage our girls to be positive rebels and change makers – to constructively test the status quo, to non-conform and to always fail smart in pursuit of their goals.”

Girls STEM Mining and the Lands Camp

by Hayleigh Duck (Year 11)

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recently attended the first Girls STEM Mining and the Lands Camp, hosted by Curtin University and Future Footprints, a Perth based community organisation that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Participants from Year 10-12 had the opportunity to tour Curtin’s facilities and gain information on post-school mining opportunities as well as the chance to visit two of the mines close by. It was an amazing experience which I was glad to be part of. It gave me a better insight into mining life and the massive range of jobs available in the mining industry.

I arrived at camp not knowing anyone (being the only Penrhos girl attending), but I soon made some amazing friends. Throughout the five-day camp, we completed several activities together, including robot programming, a tour of the Curtin Bentley campus, many talks from

those working in mining areas, plus we visited two mine sites. We also had a networking night where we could discuss our plans for life after school and meet the sponsors of the camp. On the Friday we took a trip down to the ALCOA mine in Pinjarra and the Talison mine in Greenbushes. The Talison mine was my favourite as we got to see the super pit and tour the processing plant, observing the way they process materials in detail. The trips to the mines were especially fun, as we got to chat and get to know one another even more.

We met biologists and environmental scientists, but a real stand out for me was meeting Professor Kingsley Dixon who is a profound biologist. He came to visit us when we stayed in Waroona campgrounds for a night. He spoke about his studies and his aspirations and goals for the environment, but

especially the restoration of the jarrah forests.

Overall, the camp was one of the best opportunities I could have been given. At first, I was unsure about whether I really wanted to go but I am extremely glad I did.

I made some amazing friends and got to tour impressive mine sites. If anybody ever has this opportunity, you should go and you will not regret it. I now know what my opportunities in mining could be, should it be something I want to do in the future. Future Footprints’ promotion of these university-run camps is amazing and I strongly recommend others should attend if they can - not just to learn, but to make new friendships.

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Penrhos College - moving from successful compliance, to being a world leader in safeguarding and child safety

by Kalea Haran Principal

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hose of you who have read my blog on the College website (Pioneering new standards in safeguarding) will be aware that I recently commissioned a full review of our safeguarding policies and practices. This was conducted through Semester One by independent consultant Suzanne Murray of Fairchild Safeguarding – the work was undertaken with the intention of being able to celebrate everything we already do well and to highlight any areas for potential improvement, along with a roadmap for ongoing development. The point at which a new leader arrives always presents lots of opportunities for sense-checking and temperature gauging - this review of safeguarding was by no means the only deep dive I took! However, this is the one I really want to share with you – my aim is to not only meet WA standards, but to excel and to continue to excel. I want to set new standards in providing a culture of care which rigorously supports the safety of our students against any state, national or international standards.

Covid 19 restrictions on travel, it was unfortunately not possible for our consultant to conduct a site visit.

Our aim is to provide an environment that celebrates and empowers all girls, where each individual is nurtured and valued, and where stereotypes are left by the wayside. The Penrhos environment is one where girls are empowered to make decisions for their education that support them in their chosen journey, and enjoy learning in a safe environment where everyone is supported to speak to what she believes in, to freely explore her passions, creativity and academic excellence, and to achieve her personal best. Our vision speaks to an outstanding culture of care which goes beyond what is expected and required to keep children safe, so they can achieve their true potential.

Fairchild reports that our College psychologists have a strong presence and a recognised supportive role – Suzanne notes favourably that our psychologists accept referrals from staff, parents and students and observes ‘it is clear the student voice is sought in the development of the College’s student code of conduct.’

The Fairchild review findings are evidence-based and formulated in the context of a desktop review across a large range of College documentation. The review also allowed for a snapshot of practice, based on virtual meetings with students, staff and parents. Due to the

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I want to share with you the main findings, as follows: Fairchild reports strong evidence of the College’s commitment to child safety, with a clear focus on positive relationships and outstanding pastoral support for wellbeing. This is to be celebrated – Suzanne Murray notes ‘a consistent understanding of statutory requirements - the College has embedded the principles of child safety into both policy and practice, with many policies in place and available to staff and parents.’ She goes on to positively observe that child protection officers are members of the College Leadership team and that the child safety agenda is discussed regularly at a variety of forums – ‘there is a large team of well-trained and experienced leadership staff in place, all of whom are clearly committed to supporting all areas of child safety and wellbeing.’

Fairchild describes Penrhos as ‘a listening college … a caring and nurturing environment with a strong culture of support.’ Our open-door policy was evident to Suzanne, who observed that students feel safe here – her report indicates that our girls ‘trust they are supported by adults who care.’ Further, Fairchild noted ‘an impressive use of consistent language when speaking about being safe’. Penrhos is to be commended on its strong sense of inclusivity and belonging.

Whilst bullying was generally mentioned by some students, there were no significant areas for concern.

The College clearly promotes understanding with curriculum provision. Fairchild report notes that some secondary students would welcome more opportunity to discuss issues such as consent and peer on peer abuse, amongst other areas I explored in my blog.

The report also notes our strong protective behaviours program, and that it is also available online; Suzanne notes ‘the curriculum is developmentally appropriate for all students, addressing the boundaries between appropriate and inappropriate interactions and when and how to tell when a boundary has been crossed.’ Fairchild observed it was impressive to find a common language and understanding around these issues during student conversations.

In other notes, the report referred to our ‘several studentcentred policies which continue the thread of protection - the College works to ensure that material is culturally appropriate, and particular care is given to address the needs of the boarders and our Aboriginal student population.’ Penrhos is also recognised as being strong in the areas of cyber and e-safety, with our provisions including our social media policy and cyber safety team.

I am pleased that the Fairchild report also includes acknowledgement that our students benefit from a wide variety of opportunities to engage in an extensive range of co-curricular activities, which support student wellness and mental health.

• Review current data collection, ensuring all stakeholder opinion is sought, and implement / centralise a single cross-College system of reporting and recording • Develop and implement a Community Cohesion Policy • Develop a role-specific training tracking database • Provide bespoke training for all safeguarding and leadership staff • Review and streamline policies • Implement an identification system for all adults on campus and communicate simple guidance on how to behave whilst on campus to all visiting adults In conclusion, Suzanne had the following to say “It has been a pleasure to evidence some good and outstanding practice at Penrhos College and, whilst I have made several recommendations, many are to ensure that the College moves from successful compliance, to being a world leader in safeguarding and child safety.”

So, we have tested our foundations and we have found them to be robust and secure. Now, we will build on them and we will continue to build – we are already in the process of creating an action plan around Suzanne’s recommendations, and we are committed to pioneering new standards in safeguarding, so the Penrhos example may shine as a beacon in safeguarding and child safety across WA and beyond. Please keep checking the Penrhos blog for the latest updates and be part of this important journey with us.

Key recommendations include: • Develop a stronger safeguarding (child safety) message for communication to all stakeholders with a clear point of reference for parents

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A fond farwell to Michele Hay

By Micaela Beeck Year 12 boarder

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t the end of Term 1 2021, the boarding community said goodbye to their muchloved Head of Boarding, Michele Hay, who had been with the College for 19 years.

Along with many of the Year 12s, I had known Ms Hay for over six years – so, to celebrate her retirement with her was both a very special and very sad event to be part of. Ms Hay had a positive impact in so many ways in her role as Head of Boarding and was such an integral part of so many boarding families lives - we just couldn’t begin to thank her enough, when it came for her time to leave us.

On Wednesday, 31 March, Ms Hay requested a ‘last’ dinner’ with the boarding girls along with some special guests who had contributed to the boarding community and to the longstanding history of Michele Hay. We celebrated Ms Hay’s time at Penrhos College and shared some laughs, as we shared and remembered some of her many quirky and funny moments in the Boarding House.

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Thank you to the generous boarding community and alumni who donated towards an incredible gift for Ms Hay. Thanks to their wonderful generosity, I was able to privately commission a papercut artwork by Albany artist, Sue Codee.

To make sure our commission reflected Michele Hay’s character, I asked all the boarding girls what reminds them of Ms Hay. Responses included her love of snails, Japanese peonies, taking the girls shopping and her famous ‘hip hip hooray’ cheer. The custom artwork incorporated all these elements and many more. They remind us of Michele and we were so pleased we could create such a beautiful piece.

Along with this magnificent piece of bespoke artwork, created with our love and affection, Michele received a magnolia teddy bear tree with cut-out wood leaves for hanging on the tree, each leaf featuring a personalised message from the current boarders. We also organised a lovely bouquet of flowers and some gift vouchers to her favourite store Bunnings Warehouse!

Through the course of the evening, we heard tributes from many different people about how Ms Hay has affected their lives, including former Principal Meg Melville, who told of their fun adventures together in Europe as school colleagues. It was lovely to hear all kinds of stories about Ms Hay over the years, from people who knew her in different capacities, and it was also very moving to learn more about her incredible influence during her time at Penrhos.

Ms Hay organised a dessert bar for us to enjoy, which was definitely a hit amongst the girls - we finished the evening with shared sweet treats and a delicious chocolate strawberry and cream cake made by the chefs.

We all felt so privileged to share in Ms Hay’s ‘last dinner’ and we felt it was the perfect way to recognise and commemorate her contribution to both the College and the boarding community.

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Artistic visions – the journey of Art at Penrhos 1988 – 2018

by Beverley Bell Former Head of Department

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he story of Art at Penrhos is one of colour and inspiration. One of WA’s most productive and successful Art departments has emerged from what was once a small space within the ground level of the old Science block, and grown into the magnificent, purpose-built Creative Arts and Design Centre (CADC) of today. Our highly regarded Art department has developed tremendously over the past three decades, most significantly under the advocacy of former Head of Department Beverley Bell (1988 - 2018). We asked Beverley to share some of her memories and experiences of Art at Penrhos.

My Penrhos Art Family has an exceptional place in my heart; it brings together the accomplished staff, supporters and contributors as well as those fabulous, talented, clever and funny students I taught in my many years at the College.

I am constantly in awe of Art students and the spectacular works they create, even when under the pressure of study for other subjects, sometimes having to keep their art projects curtailed to their bedroom, the spare room, or the family kitchen table.

Art exhibition - Jubilee Hall (1999)

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I campaigned and advocated for a new purpose-built home for the Art department for many years - in fact, for my entire tenure at Penrhos.

My vision was finally realised in 2016, and now the Art department occupies the middle level of the incredible CADC building. I am grateful to all those who made the Creative Arts and Design Centre a reality for future generations of ‘arty’ Penrhosians to enjoy. I am also pleased to have established the Art department, as it is known today, and navigated the monumental move into the new building. I enjoyed several years of teaching in this wonderful environment before my retirement at the end of 2018.

bedroom, larger than life murals of the saints and religious iconography, a nod to Greece with painted pillars and urns and a life-sized cast model of a Greek statue. Those were the days!

Part of my vision for the new Art department included a gallery space to exhibit student work.

The installation of professional hanging rails and lighting into the Art gallery space made this a reality; displaying student works and showcasing Year 12 artworks at the end-of-year graduation exhibition is now a glamorous and streamlined production. In my early years at Penrhos, the end-of-year art exhibition was held in the Jubilee Hall. It was a mammoth event that included a parade of textile garments created in Art classes and work from across the College. A themed entrance space enjoyed by attendees included a life-sized recreation of Vincent van Goh’s painting of his

Many Penrhos alumni have become very successful artists with their own practice and they are now well-regarded in the WA art scene.

Others have become art educators, designers, architects, professional graphic artists, set designers, and so much more. Fundamental to my legacy at Penrhos is that my muchloved ex-students Danielle Glucina, Jess O'Donnell and Julie Kenny are now current staff members. I am delighted that these strong and talented women are helping the next generation of young artists find their voice through a myriad of artistic opportunities and pursuits.

I am proud to have instigated the Artist in Residence Program at Penrhos College. My passionate desire was to have WA artists work with our students in their medium of specialty and it continues to this day. Many practising WA artists can include tutoring sessions and a residency on their curriculum vitae and our students’ lives have been substantially enriched by the calibre of these creatives.

“Beverley Bell has been an incredible mentor to me. As a teacher, she was a passionate educator who taught with kindness and patience, encouraging students to explore brave new ideas. I thank her for her tremendous contribution to Art at Penrhos. I know countless Penrhosians have wonderful memories of their time with Miss Bell, including my own.”

Danielle Glucina

Helping Penrhos Art students realise their artistic dreams and find the confidence and determination to pursue their love of the Arts has been a true privilege. I particularly remember a Year 12 Visual Arts student telling me the Penrhos Art department was her ‘safe place’ to come and relax and find support and encouragement. The Penrhos Art department was, and still is, where the creative spirit flourishes and where our artistic students can find nourishment and sanctuary. I sincerely hope it always will be.

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Discovering the spirit of adventure

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hen it comes to adventure, nothing quite compares to setting sails, climbing rigging and standing watch into the night. For young first-time sailors, being out on the water in a dynamic and challenging environment is the ultimate adventure – where important life lessons in awareness, patience and respect are learned.

Earlier this year, a group of courageous Penrhosians in Years 9 - 12 participated in a week-long voyage during their school holidays, pushing themselves and broadening their outlook onboard Sail Training Ship Leeuwin II. The unique and memorable experience was offered to students as part of the Round Square program, an initiative which is proudly supported by the Penrhos College Foundation. In securing membership of the Round Square program, Penrhos joined an international network of 200 like-minded schools in 50 countries that share a commitment to character education and experiential learning around six themes known as IDEALS - International Understanding, Democracy, Environmental Stewardship, Adventure, Leadership and Service.

For Round Square, the spirit of adventure is characterised by those who push themselves beyond their perceived limits, cross boundaries and discover they are capable of more than they thought.

Leeuwin II is Australia’s largest sail-training tall ship and one of only a handful of tall ships in the country, dedicated to the development of young people. Sailing on a working ship involves participation in hands-on activities during the voyage - from taking the helm and navigating the ship, setting and furling the sails, climbing the rigging and standing watch, to setting up for meals and washing up!

During this incredible experience, our participating girls were joined by students from Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, another member of the Round Square global network – students from both schools also therefore had the opportunity to build new friendships while testing their personal limits. Sailing along some of Western Australia’s most spectacular coastline, they were encouraged to consider, capture and share what adventure meant to them, all in the midst of exploring their personal comfort zones, developing their courage and confidence, and evolving their skills in communication, leadership and collaboration.

Adventure is a very personal experience – read what some of our students had to say: ‘I never thought I would be given the opportunity to embark on such an amazing adventure. I will always remember climbing up the mast and holding on for my life. I was so proud of what I had achieved and the support from everyone was incredible. I am so grateful to have had this experience with such kind and encouraging people.’

Ella Richardson (Year 10)

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‘Being stuck with 30 random people on a ship in the middle of the ocean for six days really forces you to work with people you’ve never met before. By the end, the 30 of us all worked as a team in group activities like we had known each other for years. Although we were incredibly exhausted and sleep-deprived, I’m so glad I was a part of this very entertaining experience and met the amazing people that I did.’

‘When we first got on the ship, I think it’s fair to say Penrhos and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School were two distinct groups. Throughout the journey, this separation disappeared as we worked together in our groups and developed strong friendships with people from different year groups and schools. This was incredibly refreshing and exciting as the sense of community onboard grew, making one big family. Working with all the people on the ship was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone who gets the opportunity in the future.’

Millie Hirte (Year 11)

Sienna Beeck (Year 10) ‘All I can say is, don’t go on the Leeuwin expecting a cruise! It was extremely fun and engaging - but it was also challenging, which added to the adventure. The new people you meet and the new things you try are so worth the sea sickness! Such an amazing experience that pushes you to your boundaries and extends you past your comfort zone. The teamwork skills I learned are so valuable and I am so, so grateful I had this opportunity.

Going on the Leeuwin is an amazing program that I would recommend for anyone looking to extend themselves.’

‘It is mind-blowing, how a group of relative strangers can become family over a week. From hauling lines, to singing, to throwing up, we helped each other through it all. We pushed ourselves to the limit, always knowing we had each other’s backs. Sailing on the Leeuwin was like nothing I have ever done, and one of the best things I have ever experienced. The friends I made along the way made it all that much better.’

Maya Della Franca (Year 10)

Ellen King (Year 10)

Emily Lassam (Year 11)

‘It was an amazing experience! Meeting new people and being responsible for the boat was daunting at first, but came naturally after a short while. The activities we did on the boat helped to build my leadership and communication skills. I don’t think I’ve experienced anything like this before. I would definitely do this again!’

Sail Training Ship Leeuwin II has been based in Fremantle Port for over 30 years and is operated by not-for profit company, Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation Limited.

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For the love of the game – Penrhos volleyball

by Kenrick Armitage Physical Education Teacher

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enrhos volleyball is once again off to a terrific start. IGSSA volleyball is always a great way to begin the year and we had a fantastic number of students from every year group filling the Fandry Sports Centre each week, for what turned out to be a really fun filled and successful first semester. Nine Penrhos teams won pennants and the standard of volleyball that our teams demonstrated across all grades was something we can be extremely proud of.

For Penrhos, volleyball does not finish there - coming in Term 3 is the Volleyball WA State Highschool Cup, a competition in which Penrhos has won the Champion Girls School award for the past two years, with fierce competition from many worthy opponents including main rival Rossmoyne Volleyball Academy. Our talented volleyballers have shown the ultimate commitment at trials and training outside of their very busy school schedule, in order to prepare for what we hope will be another successful tournament for the College. We wish the girls the best of luck with their preparation for this high calibre event.

Over recent years, Penrhos has been developing a strong relationship with Reds Volleyball Club, whose philosophy of ‘Good people first, good volleyballers second’ aligns perfectly with the Penrhos volleyball ethos.

More than 100 of our students continue their love of the game at Reds, ranging from our youngest Year 3 athletes in their Spike Zone program (based at Penrhos on Friday afternoons), to our Reds Junior League teams who also train here on campus. Our older students - and many alumni - continue to play in the highest divisions of the

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Reds Women State League. It is fantastic to see so many of our students develop such a love for the sport and we are proud to be involved with such a wonderful local club that offers our girls excellent opportunities.

In addition to local competitions, many of our students are currently representing WA and Australia in both beach volleyball and indoor programs. State team selections are currently underway and we look forward to celebrating our students who are successful in gaining a place in 2021. We currently have four former students who are now full-time athletes with the Australian Volleyball Academy based at the AIS in Canberra. Tessa Browne (2018), Sarah Burton (2020), Cassie Dodd and Ella Schabort have been training with some of Australia’s best athletes and coaches and it has been thrilling to watch them represent their country, knowing that their journey began right here at Penrhos.

The success of Penrhos volleyball is down to those incredible students who want nothing more than to develop a love for the sport and build upon the very successful and positive culture that our former students have created for them to continue. There is no better example of this then seeing our amazing Penrhos volleyball alumni return to the College and pass on their knowledge as coaches and umpires to some of our youngest athletes in Junior School, right through to our current seniors. For our students to connect with the pride, passion and love these past students have for both the sport and the College sets a great example for our next generation of Penrhos volleyballers.

Enter to win your 2022 tuition fees!

Enter this year’s Tuition Fees Raffle for your chance to win a $20,000 credit towards your 2022 school fees.

With just 1,000 tickets available, everyone stands a real chance of winning!

Tickets cost $50, with no limit on the number of tickets an entrant may purchase.

Tickets can be purchased from trybooking.com/BSPYU Tickets will be available from 9am (AWST) Thursday 12 August, 2021 until 5pm (AWST) Thursday, 11 November, 2021 (unless sold out prior).

We welcome you to attend the prize draw at the Penrhos College Volunteers and Friends’ Sundowner at 7pm (AWST) Friday 12 November, 2021.

All proceeds will go to the Foundation to support the continuous enhancement and development of the College.

Lottery Permit Holder: Stephen Cooper: Director of Finance and Administration, Penrhos College Standard Lottery Number: LS216344721 (issued by Gaming and Wagering Commissions on 25 June 2021). *Terms and Conditions apply, please visit penrhos.wa.edu.au/tuitionfeesraffle

Reaching the heights of Year 12 affords many opportunities to give back to the boarding community.

The boarders in the younger years look forward to any interaction with the older boarders, whether that takes the form of a structured activity (a games night, craft afternoon, service activity or exercise class, for example) or something more spontaneous, like a walk to the river, help with homework or cooking together.

Growing student leaders in the Boarding House

by Liz Langdon Head of Boarding

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trong student leadership in a boarding community is crucial. Boarders spend more time in the Boarding House than they do in school, so there are many opportunities to develop and hone their leadership skills.

Leadership starts from the top. The boarders in Year 12 lead the way and their example sets the tone in the Boarding House. This year we have introduced some initiatives that involve the Captain of Boarding and the Year 12 boarders that are designed to raise their profile, highlight their contribution and spread some joy within the boarding community. Each week, during notices, the Captain and Year 12s share news with the boarders and present a ‘Boarder of the Week’ award in recognition of someone who makes a difference through their actions and positive attitude.

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In 2022, we are increasing the number of boarder prefects and Year 12 leadership opportunities. The School Vice-Captain: Captain of Boarding will still serve on the Student Council, but we will introduce other additional prefect positions, to serve the boarding community. In this way, we will provide opportunities for the Year 12 cohort to come together, have fun and lead the way. The focus will be to explore possible service, environmental, physical, pastoral and creative opportunities that they can share with their fellow boarders, from Year 7.

To help kick-start the leadership initiative, the Year 11 cohort recently attended Leadership Camp at Forest Edge in Waroona with Year 11 boarders from Aquinas College. It was a fabulous weekend of activities, and the boarders came back full of energy and enthusiasm. The aim of the camp was to take participants out of their comfort zone and expose them to stretch opportunities.

The activities were a mix of problem-solving, team building and risk taking - it was fantastic to see the boarders extend themselves beyond their usual limits, to grow together and bond as a group.

To reinforce this stretch learning, the Year 11 boarders will also participate in a series of leadership forums in 2021 to help shape how our new boarding leadership model will look. Involving the Year 11s in the process, will mean they will be more invested in making it work and achieving a positive outcome as they move into their Year 12 leadership positions next year. Moving forward, leadership opportunities will be extended to the boarders in all year groups and the initiative will naturally evolve, as the Year 12 boarder prefect team takes ownership of their positions and find ways to get others involved.

There is great potential and enthusiasm, so 2022 is looking like a year of positive change for our boarders.

Life as a boarder

by Elise Walker Year 8 boarder

M

y parents decided to send me to Penrhos College when I started Secondary School – so, as soon as Year 7 began, I became a boarder. Penrhos College was the perfect choice for my family.

My home is in Newdegate, which is four hours away from Penrhos College, so it is hard for me to get home often. But I do enjoy the long weekends and the holidays, when I have the opportunity to head back and help around the farm.

My dad attended Wesley College when he was young, and that always meant one day my brothers would enrol there too. Penrhos was then an obvious choice, as it was so close by and it was the sister school to Wesley.

Penrhos College is also very close to the house we stay at when we drive into Perth. Another benefit was that I already had many family members and friends already enrolled at Penrhos – who could tell me how much they were enjoying it … just as much as I do now!

My grandparents and parents try to visit me on spare weekends when they can, but they have winter sport on at home and both my younger brothers play so they often can’t.

Last year, however, I was very lucky to have my grandparents up to visit me on most weekends - they would come to support my AFL and boarders’ netball.

One of the best parts about being a boarder at Penrhos College is definitely the tight-knit community that we have formed - everyone really is so close. Both the students and parents have a community bond like no other and I’m so lucky to be a part of it.

When I first started at Penrhos College, I was very lucky to have my childhood best friend come with me, which made the transition a lot easier. At first, I was a little homesick and felt overwhelmed in taking such a big step on from Primary School – but I soon adjusted into a normal life, in our home-away-from-home.

The House Mothers and all the Penrhos staff were so comforting and made me feel so welcome and loved when I first arrived. All the girls are so friendly - we are so lucky to have a community that is always there for you if you need anything.

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A boarding parent’s perspective

by Amanda York Mother of Ruby and Chelsea (Year 9 and Year 12 boarders)

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e have now been a Penrhos boarding family for six years - our oldest daughter Chelsea is currently in Year 12 and our youngest Ruby, is in Year 9. We live on a wheat and sheep farm in Tammin, which is two and a half hours east of Perth.

“Sending your kids to a school like Penrhos is one of the best gifts you can give them.”

When it was time to start looking for options for our children’s secondary education, the boarding aspect was our highest priority - we figured if the kids are happy in boarding it will ultimately have a positive effect on their schooling. We ideally needed a school that would suit our ‘chalk and cheese’ daughters – as soon as we toured Penrhos College, we felt an instant connection and knew it was a perfect fit for us.

I now appreciate how true this is. My girls have thrived as boarders - they have become such independent and confident young ladies. I look forward to their phone calls, updating us on their daily adventures and keeping us entertained with lots of extremely funny stories from boarding.

Our daughters were instantly drawn to the beautiful single rooms and we loved that all the boarders took such pride in their rooms’ appearance. We loved the wonderful spaces for each year group - fantastic common rooms and outdoor areas, yet it’s designed so the girls can still have their own space when they need some time out. It was also very important to us to know that all year groups mix well and look out for each other – we know first-hand that the Penrhos Boarding House has 100% achieved this, it’s just like a giant family.

The added bonus for us was the fact that the girls keep the same room for the whole year. Believe me, you do not want to be packing up those rooms every term - it is decoration overload! For our girls, there are bedside tables, lights, pot plants, fish, hockey and cricket bags, ottomans, mirrors… and even an air fryer! Our family’s end-of-year pick up takes three carloads!

I can still remember leaving Chelsea on the first day in boarding - it was one of the hardest things I have ever done, and dropping Ruby was no easier! I cried the whole way to Northam, an hour from Perth and ended up having to pull over for a break. At that time a very wise friend called me, her words were…

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We always said that when they got to Perth, they should give anything a go – we told our daughters not to worry about being or not being the best, we encouraged them to just go and have fun. Between our two daughters, they have played nearly all the IGSSA sports and they have also tried out rowing and athletics - they just love being involved and representing Penrhos. They have also participated in so many other wonderful opportunities fantastic camps, excursions, drama nights, a trip to Laos and Cambodia, a day on the Leeuwin, trade fairs, dress up days … the list has been endless over the years!

Then, on top of all that, there are the routine boarding activities like boarders netball at Fremantle on a Saturday, which the girls absolutely love. There are rec activities most weekends, offering our daughters lots of different experiences and the chance to mix with other schools – these activities are such a great opportunity to catch up with friends from home who attend other boarding schools. Our son is at Wesley and we love the ways Penrhos and Wesley often collaborate, doing so many activities together, which gives our kids the chance to spend time with one another.

The boarding staff are fabulous – they care so much for the girls and get to really know each one individually.

I like to allow extra time when picking the girls up, so

I can catch up with Liz Langdon or Kris Callaway and the House Mothers. The Boarding House always has such a warm and welcoming, lovely casual feel. The Health Centre staff and prep tutors are also wonderfully supportive - nothing is ever a drama, and knowing we have all these wonderful people involved in our girls’ lives is extremely comforting.

The best reward of Penrhos boarding is the friendships the girls have made.

I actually can’t believe it has been six years since we first became part of the Penrhos community and we now have one daughter finishing her time at the College. I can guarantee there will again be tears from both she and I throughout the next few months … this time because she is leaving! Sending your kids to boarding school is one of the biggest decisions you will make, but at Penrhos you will receive endless support from boarding and school staff, boarding and day parents, and the older girls in the Boarding House – it’s one giant support network and the decision we made, we have not once regretted.

I know the girls have formed friendships at Penrhos which will last forever, but the surprising bonus for us are the friendships we have made with the other boarding and day parents. There is always time for a sneaky cuppa, dinner, drinks, or just a good laugh and a chitchat at the netball whenever we are in Perth - I also know these friendships will continue long after our girls have left school!

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Chloe Cutts: her legacy lives on

T

he Chloe Cutts Flexible Learning Space and M17 Science lab are located on the first floor of the Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre.

These innovative spaces are designed to facilitate scientific learning and discovery, featuring a flexible casual seating arrangement, fume cupboard (to limit hazardous vapours and fumes during experiments) and a prep lab. Both areas are generously sponsored by the Cutts family in loving memory of their daughter Chloe Cutts, Class of 2018 and in their words as follows: “Finding a way that we could pay homage to Chloe and also celebrate her dream of becoming a Science Teacher was honored perfectly within the ‘Chloe Cutts Flexible Learning Space’ and ‘M17 Science Lab’ in the newly completed Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre.

Chloe lived and loved everything to do with Science. She saw the fun, the need, the possibilities and the beauty of it all.

It was something she felt very strongly about. Seeing the rooms evolve, as the building was progressed, and become what they are today was a heartening process – to now see Chloe’s spaces so vibrant with student activity is fulfilling indeed.

To name these spaces after Chloe is a beautiful and everlasting way to let the current Penrhos community and future generations know how much Chloe meant to us, and to ensure that her legacy continues to have a positive impact in a way that directly aligns with her passion and values. She would be extremely proud of these dedicated areas. To see her etched portrait on the wall, amongst the students still, is both moving and gratifying – she will always have a special place of her own in the College she loved.”

The Cutts family

THANK YOU

Stephanie McNamara (1931 - 2020)

P

enrhos would like to extend a warm posthumous thank you to the late Stephanie McNamara who left to the College a most generous bequest. Stephanie’s bequest is for Penrhos’ 2022 music scholarships, which are awarded to girls who demonstrate musical excellence or ability, along with a commitment to learning and personal alignment with the College values of respect, empathy, integrity, knowledge, growth and synergy.

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A brilliant pianist, Stephanie was born in Subiaco in 1931, the only child of Gwendolyn (nee Ockerby) and Alfred Taylor. She met her husband, Allen McNamara, at Kent Street High School during World War II - they later reconnected while studying at the University of Western Australia, where Stephanie concentrated on librarianship and music. She would later go on to combine and apply her study of both, in her integral role in the

establishment of the music library at the State Library in Perth.

We continue to be inspired by members of our community who choose to bequeath a gift in their will and in doing so, leave their lasting legacy and support of future Penrhosians. If you would like further information on our bequest program, please contact Sarah Woods at woodss@penrhos.wa.edu.au or 9368 9711.

Winter reflections — a story of courage

by Rev Claire Pickering Chaplain

K

ipchoge Hezekiah ‘Kip’ Keino was born on 17 January 1940, in Nandi Hills, Kenya. Kip was an orphan who lived with his aunty.

From the age of five, he would run barefoot to and from school.

He would run to school in the morning, then home for lunch, back to school in the afternoon and then home again at the end of the day. Kip ran 25.6km every day.

Kip became a professional distance runner. The first major event he competed in was the Commonwealth Games in Perth, in 1962. He went on to compete in three Olympic Games - Japan in 1964, Mexico in 1968 and Germany in 1972; he set two world records (3,000m and 5,000m) and won four medals.

At the Olympic Games in Mexico, Kip competed in six distance races in eight days. Throughout the week, Kip had severe abdominal pain (later attributed to his gallbladder). His doctors advised him to withdraw, but Kip wanted to compete. In the 10,000m final, with only two laps to go, Kip was leading when he started to feel unwell. He stopped running, stepped off the track and was consequently disqualified. A few minutes later, Kip was feeling a bit better and wanted to finish the race regardless. He stumbled back onto the track and finished the final laps.

Two days later, Kip competed in the 5,000m final and won a silver medal. Two days after that, Kip competed in the 1,500m final.

On the day of the 1,500m final, Kip was still unwell and decided to sleep in. He awoke one hour before the race, hopped out of bed and headed to the Olympic Stadium on a bus. On the way, the bus became stuck in traffic and Kip realised that he was going to be late. So, Kip jumped off the bus and ran 3.2km to the Stadium, carrying a bag with his clothes, shoes and equipment. He arrived and registered for the race just 20 minutes before the start.

Then Kip got ready, walked out onto the track and won the gold medal. He finished 20m ahead of second place (the longest distance by which anyone has ever won this race) with a time of 3:34.9 (the second fastest in history).

Kip is considered one of the best distance runners of his time.

At the Olympic Games in Brazil in 2016, during the Opening Ceremony, Kip received the inaugural Olympic Laurel – an award for outstanding achievements in education, culture, development and peace through sport. After retiring from competing in 1973, Kip and his wife Phyllis Keino fostered more than 100 orphans and built homes, a primary school and secondary school for orphaned and abandoned children in

Eldoret, Kenya. Kip is considered one of Kenya’s most beloved heroes.

Courage involves facing a situation, making a decision or taking an action that is challenging - where there is a level of actual or imagined fear, danger or uncertainty, and where one or more forms of strength (physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, social or moral) is required.

Courage can be ‘heroic’ – courage in unusual, extreme or lifethreatening situations (in a natural disaster, emergency or war).

Or courage can be ‘everyday’ – courage in familiar, commonplace or shared settings (at home, school, the workplace or sporting field).

Can you recognise a time in your life when you were courageous?

I have no doubt that you can recall many times when you needed to believe in yourself to try something new or learn a skill, where you needed to be determined and not give up to achieve a dream or overcome an obstacle, where you needed to be brave to tackle change or stand up for what’s right.

“With courage you will dare to take risks, have the strength to be compassionate, and the wisdom to be humble. Courage is the foundation of integrity” (Mark Twain).

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FROM THE PENRHOS FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

From the Penrhos Foundation President Chris Gee Foundation President Meet the Board 2021 Board members • Chris Gee President • Sally Audeyev Vice President • Alistair Baron Secretary • Kay Kelly Treasurer • Bruce Broadbent • Molly Delaney • Helen Jones • Kay Lee • Simon Woods Representatives from the College who sit on the Foundation Board: • Kalea Haran Principal • Stephen Cooper Director, Finance & Administration • Paula Barrow Director, Marketing and Development • Sarah Woods Development Coordinator • Karen Ambrose Board Secretary

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Some like schools and Colleges have a long history of giving – particularly, for many boys’ schools, philanthropy is extremely well established. Giving is in the very fabric of boys’ alumni networks – often College museums, halls of fame and alumni galleries are made possible by gifts from Old Boys, along with dedicated scholarships and other initiatives. I was heartened to note the recent Give to the Gooch on-line campaign run by my own alma mater, Scotch College, recently raised an amazing $480,000 (with matched giving) in just one day!

Philanthropy, drawn from Ancient Greek philos and anthrõpos, translates as a love of humanity or mankind - it means to benefit people you do not know.

This is the ethos or culture the Foundation is seeking to establish at Penrhos. Over the last few years, we have worked hard to raise our profile as an active force for good, a positive change-maker – the Foundation is both a fundraiser and a funder; it protects and invests a core fund that safeguards the future financial sustainability of the College – but its role reaches far beyond the stewardship of funds and firmly into the sphere of community engagement.

In 2017, we recruited for a new role in collaboration with the College, that is part funded by the Foundation. Our new Director of Marketing and

FROM THE PENRHOS FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

Development Paula Barrow subsequently created a dedicated support role which is now occupied by part-time Development Coordinator Sarah Woods. In together recalibrating our approach and resourcing the Development area, we recognised that philanthropy is about creating a culture of giving – it involves growing community engagement so that we earn the ‘right to ask’. We recognised that we need to nurture our community, to consistently engage with our alumni, parents, grandparents and friends so that our community aspires to then give back to Penrhos, in what ultimately becomes a virtuous cycle of giving.

My own experience as Foundation President suggests there is some lack of understanding in this respect – our parents tend to think “I’ve already paid my school fees, so why should I give?” But philanthropic giving is not just about supporting your child’s education; it is about investing in other people’s children and the students of the future. School fees support our daily operations, our day-to-day programs and operating expenses; they allow us to provide strong co-curricular activities. Just 70% of our running costs are covered by tuition and boarding fees. Our Foundation funds go above and beyond routine costs, and we must continue to grow these funds to sustain the required growth. Without Foundation support, the College would not be able to build, reinvigorate or develop our facilities to nearly the same extent, we would not be able to participate in and develop as many exciting new initiatives (like Round Square and Full Circle, which I described in the last issue of the Penrhosian) and we would not be able to offer educational opportunities to those who cannot afford them.

Community engagement In keeping with our focus on community engagement this year, the Foundation was delighted to host the first Gin & Jazz night in March – and to celebrate it as a complete sell-out! There is no doubt that new Principal Kalea Haran was the star attraction, as 250 guests enjoyed live music, glamorous cocktails and the beginning of a new era in weekend, parent-only events!

Four lucky raffle winners even got to take away limited edition bottles of Penrhos-branded gin, all the way from the Penrhos gin distillery in Wales, UK. Helping Hand In raising the profile of the Foundation as a funder and facilitator, we have this year launched the Helping

Hand initiative. Each year, the Foundation will make $100,000 available to fund selected student and staff projects – if you have an idea that would benefit the College, please email Sarah Woods, Development Coordinator at woodss@penrhos.wa.edu.au. The flow of ideas is steadily increasing, and I look forward to sharing news of selected and delivered projects in my next piece.

Thanks to our donors There are three main arms of philanthropy: bequests, donations and capital works. In giving to the Foundation and to the College, you contribute to a shared legacy.

The Penrhos College Foundation sincerely thanks the following donors, who have generously given since the last issue of the Penrhosian in December 2020.

J. Allen

C. Holt

H. Rodoreda

S. Audeyev

D. Izzard

R. Rudianto

J. Berevne

M. John

S & A. Senior

L. Brockhurst

K. Lee

J. Sproul

C. Burton

R. Leuba

C & B Troy

J. Chin

C. Mahoney

P. Trueman

A. Crotty

R. Main

P. Turner

H. Dowzall

A. McPhail

H & S Velkovski

M. Dunstan

R. Meyerkort

J. Whitaker

N. Freeman

Parents & Friends

K. Wiggins

C & S Faulkner

J. Park

B. Yuan

C & A Gee

I. Park

R. Zammit

S. Hampson

L. Preston

We remain committed to ensuring everyone has an option to give to Penrhos in a way that is individually meaningful, and we remain ever grateful to our generous community for your ongoing support.

It only remains for me to thank my fellow Board members, and representatives of the College, for their time and expertise. I value their contributions greatly.

I wish everyone a restful holiday and I look forward to what already promises to be a full and rewarding second semester.

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Photo gallery: Penrhos College events

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Amanda Young Fair Gin and Jazz Soirée Menrhos Year 5 Camp

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7-9 International Womens Day 10-12 Mother Daughter Dinner 13-15 Principal's Commissioning

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Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre Naming World's Greatest Shave Year 9 Social

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Inspiring triumph over breast cancer An encouraging story by Petrina Burnett (1992) Boarding at Penrhos CELEBRATING

YEARS

Extraordinary Women

Biannual magazine for the Penrhos alumni community

Extraordinary Women… and a few good men In recognition of the members of our alumni who studied with us as boys (1952– early 1980s)

Contents

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From the President of the Alumni Committee

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Alumni profile: Petrina Burnett (1992)

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Celebrating 50 years of boarding at Penrhos

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What's on

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Out and about

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Vale: Kate Webster 8.10.1963 - 16.2.2021

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Photo gallery: alumni events

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Recap on reunions

COVER PHOTO Breast cancer survivor Petrina Burnett pictured on the South Perth foreshore.

Photo by Steve Ferrier

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EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN

From the President of the Alumni Committee Helen Carr Alumni Committee President

W

hat an eventful year 2021 has been so far, my second in the role of President of the Alumni Committee.

In the Term 1 holidays, we were proud to host another successful Shakers and Stirrers networking evening with the Old Wesley Collegians, on Friday 16 April at the Windsor Hotel in South Perth.

With more than 200 guests, this was our biggest turnout in the event’s history - it was particularly lovely to see members of multigenerational families attending the event together.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, the Penrhos College Foundation hosted a fun and interactive evening with our newest extraordinary woman, Principal Kalea Haran. With this year’s theme ‘Choose to Challenge’ closely aligning with the Penrhos ethos, Kalea described what being a positive challenger and a change maker means to her. Guests were inspired to consider what they can each challenge as individuals, to collectively create a more inclusive and equitable world, free from gender stereotypes.

We have held many wonderful reunion events through the year. We welcomed more than 100 of our youngest alumni back to campus for their 18-month reunion - the Class of 2019 enjoyed a fun-filled evening catching up with friends and staff, sipping on mimosas and sampling delicious canapés. The Class of 2011 then celebrated their 10-year reunion – some with their beautiful brand-new babies in arms!

Our Class of 1981 returned to campus to enjoy their 40-year reunion - our Old Girls re-traced their footsteps, explored new parts of the

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE ALUMNI COMMITTEE

campus and admired the new Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre. It was wonderful to hear many of our 1981 leavers express their interest in connecting with and mentoring our current students and young alumni through our alumni mentoring program in 2022!

In May, we welcomed back members of the Class of 1991 for their 30-year reunion. It was wonderful to have them back and to hear their excited feedback on how much the campus has changed.

We look forward to a busy second half of the year, with more events including the Alumni Soirée on the opening night of the College Production Shrek the Musical, Founders’ Day, the 20-year reunion for the Class of 2001, the 50-year reunion for the Class of 1971 and our first-ever 60-year reunion for the Class of 1961. Boarding alumni from 1971 will additionally be invited to attend a very special event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Penrhos Boarding House, and we hope to see a great turnout for our five yearly boarding reunion too.

If you are attending an event on campus, we encourage you to register for the campus tours which we offer prior to each event. We are also delighted to host groups of friends for private tours - a great opportunity to reflect on your days together on campus, and to share laughs and memories which may be prompted as you visit locations of special significance to you. Each tour ends at the rooftop deck of the new Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre, a space we hope to secure the naming rights for, with the help of our alumni community – we very much hope to name this space as the Alumni Lookout. To help

us achieve this vision and to have your name feature on a plaque at the top of the Penrhos world, please contact Caroline Jenkins (Windsor, Class of 1991) at jenkic@penrhos.wa.edu.au - the contribution to secure your spot is $300 (or $30 over 10 months) and donations are fully tax-deductible.

In this edition we are delighted to introduce Jill Clarke, President of the Old Kobeeylans’ Association. Our Colleges share a special connection which began in 1975 when ongoing financial difficulties led to the closure of Kobeelya College – a boarding school in Katanning with a capacity for 130 boarders and a small number of day girls. Shortly after its closure, Kobeelya reopened as a division of Penrhos College. Our then Principal, Dr Vincent Horner (1972-1980), envisaged a unique city/ country program for students of both Colleges - including horse-riding and outward bound activities - resulting in a decade-long sister school relationship until Kobeelya sadly closed its doors for the last time in 1986. Kobeelya is now a historical site, complete with a school museum managed by the Old Kobeelyans’ Association – both Jill and I are delighted that Penrhos Principal Kalea Haran has already been to visit and plans to go back again later this year.

We look forward to strengthening the relationship between our Colleges and we are proud to invite all Old Kobeelyans to join our alumni community. Together, we approach significant anniversaries next year - Penrhos turns 70 as Kobeelya will mark its centenary. Together, we will share our proud history and celebrate our shared future.

C E L E B R AT I N G

From the Old Kobeelyans’ Association President Jill Clarke (1972-76/77)

I

am delighted to address you as the President of the Old Kobeelyans’ Association, founded in 1929 - we are the incorporated body of the former students and staff of Kobeelya Church of England Girls’ School (19221975) and Kobeelya Penrhos (1976-1986).

Our overarching goal is to keep our shared Kobeelya and Kobeelya Penrhos school histories and friendships alive.

Our combined alumni and current Penrhos community includes many multi-generational families with roots in Kobeelya and branches at Penrhos – of particular note from former Kobeelya Principal Val Mayger, who went on to become Vice Principal at Penrhos and continues her close association as the current Penrhosian Club President.

We are proud of our combined Penrhos / Kobeelya Old

YEARS

Girls’ tennis and golf teams, IN 2022 which compete against other IGSSA schools at annual competitions – our golf ladies took out the top spot last year! We are also delighted that annual Founders’ Day celebrations at Penrhos have recently included the recognition of our shared history, and the presentation of alumni family badges to students with Kobeelyan connections.

With both Kobeelya and Penrhos celebrating major milestones in 2022 (in their 100th and 70th birthdays, respectively), we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our shared history and vision for the future.

We invite you to visit Kobeelya if you are in the Katanning area, now a beautiful museum that offers both Penrhosians and Old Kobeeylans a sense of connection with our campus and our history.

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COVER FEATURE

It’s personal – an inspiring triumph over breast cancer Petrina Burnett (1992)

Last month, Penrhos alum Petrina Burnett (1992) launched her new book, “It’s Not (Just) About the Breast”, raising awareness on the challenges that young women with breast cancer face, including the lesser publicised social and financial impact.

Her in-depth, honest account has already hit number one in the breast cancer category of the Australian and US Amazon Kindle stores and can also be ordered via Burnett’s website, wellstrongcourage.com.

A

fter graduating from Penrhos in 1992, Petrina completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Physiotherapy at Curtin University. Her qualification gave her the opportunity to work in many specialty areas in Perth’s tertiary hospitals, interstate in Melbourne and abroad in Oxford (UK). Petrina’s qualification and clinical experience would soon prove to be personally helpful when she was diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer called a “triple negative breast cancer” at the age of 31. A year after her diagnosis, genetic testing confirmed Petrina had inherited a cancer gene mutation - called the BRCA1 gene - from her father’s side of the family, which further explained the diagnoses of breast and ovarian cancers in young adulthood experienced also by her grandmother, aunt and cousin.

Petrina came to experience the limited availability in oncological physiotherapy and rehabilitation services in Perth. She therefore enrolled in further post-graduate

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physiotherapy and Pilates training to give her the skills to optimally self-rehabilitate after her bilateral mastectomy, reconstruction surgeries and chemotherapy. Responding to the demand in services, Petrina subsequently established a comprehensive and innovative rehabilitation and wellness service called Breast, Gynae and Lymph Physiotherapy in 2009. Her pioneering Subiaco practice has gone from strength to strength and has now cared for more than 4,000 West Australians, offering breast and gynaecologic surgical rehabilitation, lymphoedema treatments and exercise interventions across all phases of the cancer pathway (pre-operative, survivorship and living with cancer).

Last year, Petrina stepped back from the front line to write about her personal cancer experiences, unique insights and perspectives - “It’s Not (Just) About the Breast,” was released in May 2021, 14 years after her initial diagnosis. In her book, Petrina also talks about her post treatment pathway, including ongoing surgeries including reconstructions and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomies (removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries). She explains the challenges that young women face such as the added professional, financial and social pressures. Petrina talks openly about her chemotherapy-induced infertility with dignity and honesty - a side effect that is less known and understood outside of the cancer world. Despite her disappointment at not being able to have her own family, Petrina reminds us that there are many ways to find fulfillment and joy, and to make the most of our lives beyond our original dreams. She also reminds us that we are never alone, even when our experiences can feel isolating and difficult.

COVER FEATURE

Petrina writes about the ongoing inter-generational story of her family’s cancer. Her grandmother passed from ovarian cancer when Petrina was just a baby and this framed her earlier years; her aunt’s breast cancer diagnosis was made when Petrina was 8 years old and, in 2012 - five years after her own diagnosis - Petrina’s cousin Gemma was also diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 31. Although the ongoing losses and adversities remain suspended over the decades, Petrina and her family continue to prove that it is possible to reconcile the changes that cancer brings, to keep the strength, keep the courage and return to wellness.

Petrina considers “It's Not (Just) About the Breast” has many other take-home messages that many people will relate to. She describes of the value of loving, supportive and meaningful relationships with family and friends; of the need to be proactive for our own well-being; and of maintaining good self-care and mindset. Sometimes adversity comes our way and things happen beyond our control – but, even when life poses more challenges and adversities than we’d like, life still goes on with all of its absolute beauty… and we need to deal with what we have in front of us, making the most of our situations as much as we can. We also need to keep moving forward and remain open to all the positives and opportunities that life can hold.

Petrina now enjoys spending more time with her fiancé Lee and fox terrier dogs at Perth’s glorious beaches and in the West Australian great outdoors. She continues to use her skills and passions in cancer care advocacy and physiotherapy management. Petrina and the Burnett family are pleased that the future path for those diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer continues to look brighter, with ever evolving technological and treatment advancements in genetic testing processes, cancer screening and treatments.

Petrina Burnett M.B.A. (Leadership & Innovation), M. Clinical.

Physiotherapy (Women’s Health) B. Science (Physiotherapy), Dip. Pilates (Polestar Rehabilitation). Level 2 Lymphoedema Practitioner.

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) provides free information and support for people diagnosed with breast cancer, their partners, family and friends.

HELPLINE BCNA's Helpline is staffed by a skilled and caring team who can help navigate callers to information, care, support and peers within and beyond BCNA. Call 1800 500 258.

INFORMATION Whether diagnosed recently or many years ago, the new My Journey online tool gives people at all stages of their breast cancer journey up-to-date information tailored to their situation and diagnosis.

ONLINE NETWORK BCNA’s online network connects people diagnosed with breast cancer with others who understand what they’re going through – at any time of the day or night.

Visit bcna.org.au/onlinenetwork

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Penrhos College looks forward to getting creative for Pink Ribbon day later in the year, and raising much needed funds towards prevention programs, support services and lifechanging breast cancer research.

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CELEBRATING

YEARS

Penrhos celebrates 50 years of boarding Merilyn Orchard Archivist

Boarding has been a part of Penrhos life for 50 years, during which time it has enriched the lives of more than 1,260 girls. From the very beginning, the Penrhos Boarding House has provided a safe and welcoming space in which boarders live and learn, whilst they establish their independence and form firm and long-lasting friendships.

We are delighted to celebrate our first 50 years in the words of our College Archivist, Merilyn Orchard - read on to explore Merilyn’s piece, which includes the reflections of both past boarders and our very first Head of Boarding.

T

he original Penrhos College operated as a day school - it was established on Angelo Street in South Perth, following the purchase of St Anne’s College by Methodist Ladies College in 1952.

In 1963, under the leadership of Mrs Margaret Way, the school’s

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name changed from MLC South Perth to Penrhos MLC. The name Penrhos (Welsh for ‘the peak of the moor’) represented a symbolic link to the first Methodist girls’ school established in 1880 in Wales, in the United Kingdom - Mrs Way had spent many hours searching for a

name for the College that would both retain some connection with the Methodist Church history and establish a separate identity from MLC Claremont. In 1963, she spoke with a visiting minister from England, Mr Watson, who suggested the name Penrhos, as a muchloved school his wife had attended with a very good record. Mrs Way subsequently discovered that three of her senior girls had been corresponding with girls at Penrhos in Wales for some time, and so considered the name Penrhos MLC was somehow meant to be.

For several years, the school experienced rapid growth and the Angelo Street premises were no longer adequate. In 1963, the School Council recognised the

Were you a Penrhos boarder in 1971? If so, we want to hear from you! To mark the 50 year anniversary of boarding at Penrhos, we'd like to invite you back onto campus to join us in our special anniversary celebrations. Please contact Caroline Jenkins at alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au to register your interest. need to expand into a larger site and to introduce boarding options.

Conveniently located south of the river, the government granted Penrhos MLC 20 acres on the Collier Pine Plantation in 1966 … and so began an exciting new chapter for the school, with the introduction of the first Boarding House. A completely new school was built for 500 day students and 200 boarders, with financial support from fundraising appeals, along with State and Federal Government grants.

cubicles in the boarding house, and this (rather than sharing one large room) clearly differentiates ours from other boarding schools.

The new Penrhos Boarding House was named Colwyn House after a prominent bay in Wales, where the original Penrhos school was situated, and the doors were opened to its first 25 boarders on Monday, 8 February 1971. Mrs Montgomery, the first Head of Boarding, and her assistant Miss Greenwall were there to help settle in the first girls, who were predominantly from regional WA along with a small number from overseas.

Memories from D. Lambert (Class of 1975): There were just 20 boarders in the early days, although numbers quickly grew. Compared to other independent schools, our living quarters were quite luxurious mainly because everything was brand new. Even the food was remarkably good, disappointing those of us who hoped to impress family at home with tales of Dickensian hardship.

Notable exceptions were cold canned spaghetti sandwiches and ‘flybread’ which cropped up all too often in our packed lunches. Mrs Montgomery (or Monty), the Head of Boarding, took her role as guardian of our moral rectitude very seriously - she must have aged about 10 years in the time I was there! She was a benign and caring person who did her very best to establish a family atmosphere.

Memories from J. Hale (Class of 1972): The opening of the Boarding House marks the dawning of a new day in the history of Penrhos MLC. Boarding facilities have been introduced for the first time and we, as foundation boarders, feel an upsurge of pride at being the first to live in this beautiful building – and beautiful indeed it is. There are 51

Mrs Montgomery recollects the first few weeks: We were surrounded by piles of sand. Bulldozers often accidentally ripped up gas, electricity and water pipes. The P&C members were an immense help at these times; they would ferry in carloads of support items - they even brought plastic buckets of water to the kitchen and 24 hurricane lamps for use during

blackouts. Showers were short in those days, but the goodwill and closeness that comes from people caring about each other in hard times made up for that.

By 1973, the Boarding House numbers grew to 51 senior boarders and three Boarding House Supervisors. Eventually the Boarding House was split into two houses, Colwyn and Menai (named after the Menai Strait stretch of water, near Colwyn Bay in Wales) which remained until 2009, when the impressively rebuilt Menai Boarding House was launched with a new extended capacity to house 100 boarders.

CELEBRATING In 2012, Colwyn House was converted into a new space for additional Secondary School classrooms, a dance studio, the Health Centre and a College staff centre with seminar rooms. In its 50th year, boarding at Penrhos is now embarking on another fresh chapter in its history – long-standing Head of Boarding, Michele Hay, retired at the end of Term 1 after a fabulous 19 years, and we were delighted to welcome back Liz Langdon, who returned to Penrhos (having previously worked here as a Careers Adviser 2007 – 2012) to take up the role from the beginning of Term 2.

The future looks bright for Penrhos Boarding. Here’s to the next amazing 50 years!

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Penrhos College giving opportunities

P

enrhos College is sincerely grateful for the generous support of current and past parents, Old Girls, staff and friends – all of whom continue to contribute significantly towards keeping our College at the forefront of girls’ education in WA. With your help, we will continue to grow the outstanding Penrhos learning experience for generations to come.

Supporting Penrhos through Giving enables the College to extend its investment in school facilities and to support programs that would otherwise not be possible. All gifts are carefully allocated to projects which are prioritised and managed by the Penrhos College Foundation, or to an area of interest nominated by the donor.

Alumni Lookout Collective

We are seeking 250 alumni members to form an exclusive Giving Collective – those who sign up are invited to donate $300 to collectively secure alumni naming rights for the roof-deck of the Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre for the lifetime of the building.

Everyone who signs up will have their name feature on a dedicated honour board, to be situated on the roof-deck at the very top of the Penhros world. To join the Alumni Lookout Collective simply head to our website and look for Alumni Lookout Collective under the Giving tab.

Be part of the future of Penrhos

We invite you to make your mark on the spectacular Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre, through naming rights of unique spaces within the facility for the lifetime of the building, or by securing an element

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on our striking Periodic Table, which spans two floors of the focal group presentation space. For our alumni community, we also offer the opportunity to be one of just 250 women who will write their names on the rooftop deck through our dedicated Alumni Lookout Collective initiative (above). For all donor opportunities available at the College, please contact Sarah Woods at woodss@penrhos.wa.edu.au or 9368 9711.

Rixon Theatre seat naming

This is a unique opportunity to personally select the Theatre seat you wish to name in a much-loved and celebrated area of the College. All seats are fitted with an engraved plaque with the chosen wording of each sponsor. Donors are also recognised on the honour board and enjoy special benefits including early access ticket booking to College productions. All donations to this campaign are fully tax deductible. If you would like to find out more, please contact please contact Sarah Woods at woodss@penrhos.wa.edu.au or 9368 9711.

Bequests

A bequest is a special way for you to create your own personal legacy in support of future generations of Penrhosians. We work closely with our benefactors to ensure gifts are targeted in line with donor intentions.

Should you wish to make a provision for Penrhos in your Will, please know that all gifts – regardless of size – are significant to our students and create a permanent bond between the donor and the College. If you would like to discuss how bequests work, please contact Sarah Woods at woodss@penrhos.wa.edu.au or 9368 9711 for an informal chat.

— PENR H O S C O L L E G E —

H A L L OF FAM E Throughout our College history, the Penrhos learning and life experience has been designed to empower each student to be true to herself, kind to others and bold in the pursuit of her dreams.

Our10,000+ Old Girls continue to make their mark in all kinds of ways - in the College, in our city, across our country and all over the world. Penrhosians are women with authenticity, with real stories of courage, strength and resilience to tell. Some have become business innovators, advocates for change and brave leaders in the face of adversity; others raise families, travel, promote philanthropy and community service, educate and inspire.

Our alumni are women of depth, character and purpose. This is your opportunity to focus on someone with a story to tell … someone whose journey defines what it means to be a Penrhosian.

Nominate an Old Girl for our Hall of Fame.

Together, we will acknowledge the extraordinary women of the Penrhos family and honour the determination, courage and strength it takes to achieve with integrity - to be bold, kind and true.

NOMINATE NOW Email alumni@pernhos.wa.edu.au Please include Hall of Fame in your subject line.

THE PENRHOSIAN

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— WH AT ' S O N —

Thursday 29 July, Friday 30 July, Saturday 31 July, plus matinee at 2pm on Saturday 31 July Tickets on sale 9am, Monday 19 July This year the Penrhos College production is Shrek the Musical, based on the 2001 DreamWorks Animation film Shrek and its sequels. Our students and Drama department have been busily preparing for this spectacular event. With a number of show dates on offer, this spectacular piece of entertainment is not to be missed!

Time: 7pm Rixon Theatre

Shrek Alumni Soirée Thursday, 29 July

As part of our opening night celebrations, you are invited to join fellow alumni for complimentary pre-show drinks and canapés in the Llew Woodford Function Centre.

Please note that tickets to this pre-show event are strictly limited and reserved for members of our alumni. Shrek production tickets are sold separately.

Time: 6-7pm Llew Woodford Function Centre

Junior School Disco

AUGUST

Friday, 6 August

Penrhos College Year 3 - 6 students are invited to the Junior School Disco, hosted by Friends of Penrhos.

SEPTEMBER

Wednesday, 18 August

Parents are invited to enjoy refreshments in the Colwyn Centre from 5.30 - 7pm, tickets include food and a cash bar is available for drinks.

Time: 4.30-7pm Junior School Courtyard and Junior School Hall

The Penrhos College Foundation President, Chris Gee, together with the Foundation Board invites you to the Year 12 Father Daughter Dinner. Girls are advised to visit the Heads of Year office to place their names on the seating plan, once payment is complete.

Time: 6.30-11pm Llew Woodford Function Centre

Founders' Day

Havana Nights

Past students, staff and friends of Penrhos are warmly invited to join us to celebrate and commemorate the founding of Penrhos College (originally MLC South Perth), and to acknowledge and celebrate the College’s rich history and those who forged it. The service will include the presentation of alumni badges to daughters and granddaughters of Old Girls.

Time: 11-2pm Penrhos College Chapel

Come and experience a magical evening in Havana at this special themed event featuring Cuban cocktails, tapas and the sounds of Salsa, Boleros and Rumba!

Current parents, staff and alumni are invited to join this first event, proudly supported by Friends of Penrhos.

Time: 7-11pm Llew Woodford Function Centre

Tuesday, 7 September

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Father Daughter Dinner

THE PENRHOSIAN

Saturday, 18 September

— WH AT ' S O N — Our Head of Boarding and Enrolment Manager attend Field Day events and host Regional Roadshows every year to meet future, present and past Penrhos families. We love heading inland to demystify the boarding transition for prospective families and to make sure all the right information is available. We choose our roadshow locations based on current student and alumni data, which show us where Penrhos has strong connections. Of course, we also love to be invited! The following catered events will be held at local venues – everyone is welcome.

• Karratha FeNaCING Festival Saturday, 31 July and Sunday, 1 August

• Mingenew Mid-West Expo Wednesday, 11 August and Thursday, 12 August

• Dowerin Field Days Wednesday, 25 August and Thursday, 26 August

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER

Valedictory Events and Flower Day To celebrate our graduating class of 2021, the following traditional valedictory events will take place: Tuesday, 19 October P Day Wednesday, 20 October Student Council Assembly and Valedictory Service and Dinner Thursday, 21 October Flower Day and Year 12 Prize Giving Ceremony

Picnic and Pictures Friday, 19 November

Following the success of last year's screenings, we will again be showing a free outdoor movie on the big screen at Penrhos. An ice-cream van and sausage sizzle will be on site, plus popcorn, lollies and drinks for purchase… or pack your own picnic.

Time: 5.30-8pm Junior School Oval

• Newdegate Field Days Wednesday, 1 September and Thursday, 2 September

• Esperance Agricultural Show Friday, 15 October and Saturday, 16 October

• Katanning Show Saturday 23 October

Volunteers and Friends Sundowner (and Tuition Fees Raffle draw) Friday, 12 November

Penrhos College staff are grateful to everyone who generously offers their time, services and expertise in support of the programs and activities of our College.

Thank you for making Penrhos the wonderful and vibrant community that it is - please join us so we may thank you for your contribution. Partners welcome.

Time: 6pm Colwyn Centre

Friends of Penrhos Carols & Community Picnic Wednesday, 1 December

The Penrhos Christmas Carols and Family Picnic is a free community event, proudly supported by Friends of Penrhos. The Penrhos community is warmly invited to join us with a picnic for a fantastic evening of festivities, including an animal farm, bouncy castle and face painting on the Junior School Oval.

Carols will be performed in the Chapel from 7-8pm.

To register for these events please head to penrhos.wa.edu.au/events THE PENRHOSIAN

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Out and about The Penrhos College Marketing and Development team invites alumni to contribute to The Penrhosian magazine by emailing news items to alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au. We publish alumni submissions in good faith, in the spirit of sharing and celebrating good news.

Penrhos alumni Kyah Kani (2018) and Adelle Masters (2017) recently represented Western Australia in ‘Danchella’, a national hip hop competition and placed third! Congratulations, girls!

Maggie Marshall (Elliot, 2005) and her husband Dan, welcomed their first born daughter, Bronte Helen Marshall, to the world on Tuesday, 23 February 2021.

They are overjoyed at becoming parents.

Lisa Woodbrook (2009) has recently released her debut single ‘So Bad’ – you can now listen for yourself through Spotify, Apple Music or TripleJ Unearthed. Lisa has spent the last year selling out shows at the Fringe festival and Crown Perth; she also performed in a regional tour through the Pilbara to celebrate National Volunteer Week.

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Emma Feint (Reid, 2005) married Gareth Feint on 12 March, 2021 at Chapel Farm, Middle Swan. Wedding guests included fellow 2005 graduates Sarah O'BrienSmith, Tarnia Jovanou (Bothe), Sam Noske, Kate Jones (McLarty), Larissa Nichols, Therese Lloyd (Pauley), Katie Sirakowski (Pole), Kate Leach (Bungey), Ange Butler (Coote) and Victoria Lawrence.

Leanne Spaull (Gard, 2002) lives in Bunbury with her husband, where she works as a primary school teacher. Their son Connor is 22 months old, and they welcomed their second child Ava in June 2021.

After studying a Bachelor of Science (Health Promotion) at Curtin University, Moira O’Brien-Smith (2011) started her own business in health and wellness. She has since worked in management positions at UWA, F45 Training and most recently The Fast 800 with Dr Michael Mosley. After studying, working and travelling abroad through Central and South America, Moira and her husband have settled in Dunsborough with their son Sol (2) and are expecting a daughter in August.

Alexandra Casey (2018) recently started her own photography business - Beyond the Break Photography (Insta: @beyondthebreakphotography). She specialises in drone photographs of landscapes all around Western Australia; she also shoots weddings, fashion and brand content.

Emily Guest (2011) completed a Bachelor in Occupational Therapy and lives in the north west of WA where she works as Clinical Services Manager in Karratha. Emily recently got engaged to Sam Clark and they are due to get married in June, 2022.

As of February this year, Alexandra has been writing for The West Australian newspaper under the guidance of Travel Editor, Stephen Scourfield.

Connect your business with the Penrhos community This year, the Development Office has been busily working in partnership with the Alumni Committee on the development of an online platform to promote businesses of both alumni and current parents, so we can support one another.

If you are a current business owner and either an alum or a member of the broader Penrhos family, we invite you to join this great initiative.

Feature your business in our Penrhos Business Directory, along with any discount or promotion you

may choose to offer to our College community.

Registrations are now open – simply head to our website and look for Business Directory under the Alumni tab.

Coming soon - Alumni Mentor Network Would you be interested in sharing your professional experience and becoming actively engaged as a mentor to both alumni and students?

Coming to Penrhos College in 2022 is our exciting new Alumni Mentor Network initiative. With more than 10,000 remarkable alumni across 40 countries, this program presents a wonderful opportunity for our alumni to connect on a one-to-one

basis, regardless of location or year of graduation. Whether you would like to impart your knowledge, share your professional experience, improve your leadership skills, or simply ‘give back’ in the spirit of personal growth and fulfillment, please reach out.

Our alumni mentors will also be able to offer meaningful work experience to current students, and to connect

in roundtable discussions on topics of interest, shared values and much more.

Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to register your interest in becoming a founding member - visit Alumni Mentor Network under the Alumni tab on our website.

These initiatives are proudly supported by the Penrhos College Alumni Association.

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Back to school for alum Olivia Holmes Olivia Holmes (2018) recently returned to our Junior School on her very first teaching placement as part of her Bachelor of Education (Primary). Here, Olivia shares her experience of returning to Penrhos as an alum and her takeaway thoughts on all-girls education.

M

y very first day at Penrhos was in 2013. I can recall putting on my too-big blazer and my straw hat, lacing up my shiny, stiff new school shoes and posing for awkward photos. My Year 7 self would not have believed that, in 2021, I would be returning to Penrhos for another first day - this time not as a student, but on my very first placement as a preservice teacher.

It felt oddly like coming home as I walked through the College gates in the first week of June, three years since my graduation and I could feel a wave of nervous excitement rising as I signed in and got ready to meet my class. Having never been a Junior School girl myself, I was incredibly excited to see just what the girls get up to, and to have the chance to finally put into action all I’d learned in the last two years of university.

I was initially apprehensive when I found out I would be with Year 5s, but Mrs Ritchie and the lovely ladies of Year 5 soon put my mind at ease and made me feel so welcome. I thoroughly enjoyed learning the ins-and-outs of Year 5 life at Penrhos, with the girls as my guide - and I was so excited to tell them that I was once a Penrhos student too!

Some of the highlights of my placement included going on an excursion to the rather aptly named Winter Games, performing an impromptu speech in the Rixon Theatre (to the delight of my class), observing Art and Drama classes, and discovering just what the staff room is really like. The atmosphere was so friendly and warm.

The conversations I shared in the staff room with both Junior and Secondary staff were some of the nicest parts of my days. Although it is some time since the Class of 2018 left, it still felt odd to now be colleagues - and on a 14

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first-name basis - with many of the teachers who taught me! It was so lovely to discover they still all remembered me, too!

It would be hard not to feel happy in the Junior School because the immediate, reassuring sense of community, shared achievement, growth, wonder and nurturing is so strong and evident in everything the girls do. I was continually surprised by the intelligence, kindness, determination and resilience of the students - and I found myself learning so much from the girls. One of the best take-aways for me was feeling so proud watching two students from my class in the Speaker’s Challenge competition.

It was truly a privilege to have worked in this placement; the highlight of my year so far is to have been welcomed back into the Penrhos community with such open arms and to have had such an incredible opportunity to continue my lifelong learning in the same place I started out. I will forever treasure the precious time I spent in the Junior School and I will take forward with me many lessons learned there for my future career in education.

The experience only served to reaffirm my belief in the power of girls’ education and I feel very much like I have come full circle - from learner to teacher, generation to generation.

It is undeniable that many of the teachers at Penrhos are the reason I chose to pursue my career path, so to come back and engage with them once again was the most wonderful experience. I hope that in some small part I may have inspired some of the girls to potentially consider going on into education themselves, just as they have inspired me to remain committed to my pathway.

VALE

Kate Webster 8.10.1963 – 16.2.2021

Debra Matthews (Churchward, 1980) Lifelong friend

O

ur dear friend Kate passed away on 16 February, 2021 after a long and courageous fight against debilitating multiple sclerosis (MS) triggered by a car accident in July 1987.

Kate’s parents, Margaret and Jim Webster, cared for Kate for all these years, Margaret continuing after Jim’s passing in 2018, supported by siblings Graeme, Chris, and Lisa (Webster 1982).

All who knew Kate were touched by her brightness and generosity, her smile that lit up a room, and her mischievous giggle that always meant she was up to something. You could still see that cheeky sparkle in her eyes up to her passing.

Kate excelled in her studies, graduating with Credit in Certificate of Business Studies, and was a student of the 1980 leavers cohort. She loved her time at Penrhos and made great friendships in those green iconic uniforms (summer and winter). She was independent, pushed the boundaries to achieve and questioned most things - no one was going to tell Kate what not to do, if Kate wanted to do it.

Kate came to Penrhos as a ‘day-goer’ in the then first year of High School (Year 8) and was placed into Troy faction. She was a valuable member of the support and cheer team, putting all her energies into both her friendships and scholastic endeavours.

She was ambitious, strong-minded, and smart. Kate commenced her working career with the then CBC Bank of Sydney and later National Australia Bank. She loved to travel and did the fashionable journey to Europe, and also enjoyed Singapore. Kate fell in love and married a WA boy who she thought would be her forever, but that wasn’t to be after her car accident and deteriorating health.

Kate found support, encouragement and friends at the Pentecostal Church, Victory Life - graduating at Bible College (shown in image above) brought her much joy.

Kate’s life, although not as she imagined when we were at Penrhos, was hard fought. That fire in her belly and determination kept her with us for so many beautiful years. Penrhos provided her with a great education, confidence and friendships. The years with Kate at Penrhos were truly memorable.

Kate attended most of her Penrhos reunions, and it was fantastic that her mother Margaret brought her along to her 40th Reunion at Penrhos in November 2020.

Kate will be sadly missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, our brave and spirited Penrhosian.

The Penrhos College community extends its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of alumni and friends who have passed away. We remember and celebrate the lives of those no longer with us at our Founders’ Day chapel service, in our College Book of Condolences and in our Alumni Memorial Garden.

Whilst we make every effort to notify the community of the passing of our alumni with the consent of their families, we rely on your assistance in this by kindly informing us of any losses in your family and networks. In this respect, please contact us at alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au.

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Photo gallery: alumni events

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1-3 18th month reunion 4-7 10-year reunion 16

8-10 30-year reunion 11-14 40-year reunion

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Reunion recap

Save the dates

18 Month Reunion Our 2019 alumni returned to campus to celebrate their 18-month Reunion. There were lots of familiar faces, stories to share and new discoveries on campus – particularly, tours of the new Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre, led by Head of Department Brenton Marlow, proved very popular! The group enjoyed catching up and sharing stories with their former Head of Year, Sean Ebert. This event was proudly supported by the Penrhos Alumni Committee.

Alumni reunions and events are a fantastic opportunity to rekindle old friendships, take a walk down memory lane and catch up with your Penrhos peers.

10 Year Reunion Our Class of 2011 recently returned to campus for their 10-year reunion. The night was filled with laughter, babies and lots of fun!

The evening started with a tour of the College, the group had the opportunity to view some of the newer buildings, including the stateof-the-art Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre. The opening of the time capsules the group buried in the Margaret Way Courtyard 10 years ago was a real highlight for all!

Alumni Soiree Thursday, 29 July

40 Year Reunion 40 years on, the Class of 1981 came back to Penrhos to enjoy a night of reminiscing, music from the 80s and catch-ups with old friends!

Our Old Girls re-traced their footsteps in a campus tour, explored new areas and buildings, and marvelled at the newly-completed Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre and incredible Creative Arts and Design Centre. We were particularly pleased to also welcome back some of our 1981 boarders for a tour of the new Menai Boarding House.

Founders’ Day Tuesday, 7 September

Please see below the remaining dates for alumni in 2021:

Class of 1971 50-year Reunion Friday, 13 August Class of 2001 20-year Reunion Friday, 3 September

Class of 1961 60-year Reunion Friday, 17 September Tickets to these events can be booked via penrhos.wa.edu.au/events – don’t miss out!

30 Year Reunion The Class of 1991 began their reunion with our traditional tour of the College, as they took a step back in time to walk their old hallways and explore new developments across campus. The party then moved into the Colwyn Centre, where celebrations continued amongst old friends.

We invite you to connect with us and each other via our dedicated Penrhos alumni social media channels on LinkedIn and the Penrhos College Alumni Facebook page.

Shakers and Stirrers Our annual Shakers and Stirrers event with Wesley College was held in February, at the Windsor Hotel. The event returned a record turnout in an evening filled with music and excitement as Wesley Old Boys and Penrhos Old Girls reconnected through their shared history.

Another great success and a night to remember for all.

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Shakers and Stirrers

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