Myalla OFFICI A L JOUR N A L
OCTOBER 2021 Issue #288
PE R T H COLLEGE OLD GIR L S ' A S S OCI AT I ON
Our Golden Girl
The incredible life of Carrie Bickmore (1997) and how Perth College helped set her up for success WITH FEATURES FROM
Natalie Krasnostein (1988) Jean (MacGregor) Bourgault (1954) Karen (Miles) Field (1965) A TASTE OF THE OLYMPICS WITH
Giorgia Patten (2016) Brianna Throssell (2013) Sonia (Garreffa) Cleary (1988)
Cover Photo: Tina Smigielski Network 10
FROM THE EDITOR
Living in a Parallel Universe I recently came across a poem about COVID-19 and it made me think about the different experience we’re all having in this pandemic – from those in the west to those in the east. "We are not all in the same boat. We are all in the same storm. Some are on super-yachts. Some have just the one oar.” The poem, by Damian Barr, continues but at its heart, it spells out the disparities that a worldwide pandemic brings. It would appear West Australians are on super-yachts and those on the east coast have just the one oar. At least for now! I’m enduring Melbourne’s sixth lockdown and, while we’re not quite sinking, we're barely treading water and it's depressing. Amid the fear and frustrations – working from home, home schooling, no restaurants, no movies, no friends inside, no hairdressers, no parties, a curfew and a restricted boundary – the virus has still managed to slither into supermarkets. Delta is a game changer. I appreciate West Australians are in a very different place, but they too are stuck behind a hard border with no chance of interstate or overseas travel anytime soon (and we all know it can turn on a dime!) It breaks my heart to imagine all those grandparents/ parents/grandchildren separated. Plus, other family members, friends and lovers. Many of us are mourning time lost, places forgotten, experiences we’ve gone without, people we can’t see. But, as our world contorts and divides at this troubling time, we can all seek harbour here in our little Perth College community… whether it be through lasting friendships, actively participating at the School or with the Old Girls’ Association. For now though, let's all connect right here in this jam packed Myalla. Our cover girl, popular television presenter and Gold Logie winner, Carrie Bickmore (1997), shares her fond memories of Perth College and tells us how the School helped prepare her for success. Tragically, this Old Girl has also had to deal with incredible grief, losing her husband when she was just 30. Carrie doesn’t shy away from her grief though and speaks proudly of raising millions for brain cancer research.
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For our ‘Kangaroo Route’, this broad aboard is quite simply, extraordinary. Natalie Krasnostein (1988) was visiting from her home in Israel when we caught up. I was always curious to ask Nat how it felt to be Jewish at an 'Anglican School for Girls’ and this was my chance. How fantastic were the Tokyo Olympics? We are so proud of Giorgia Patten (2016) and Brianna Throssell (2013) for making the Australian team. And how does it feel to be the mother of a medal winner you ask? We get the answer from Sonia (Garreffa) Cleary (1988) whose son, Jack, won bronze in rowing. You’ll find great inspiration reading the ‘Bush Telegraph’. Karen (Miles) Field (1965) continues to have a rich life. From a Kalgoorlie girl to a woman on the world stage of the mining industry, this former boarder has smarts by the excavator load! She is also Chair of the Perth College Foundation and a big advocate for living generously. Our ’Sweet 16’ candidate is as cute as a button. Former Head Girl, Jean (MacGregor) Bourgault (1954), tells us about meeting Queen Elizabeth II back in the day. Also, I think Jean might just win the prize for the longest Old Girl marriage. I’m serious! Another thing – we’re introducing a ‘Letters to the Editor’ page. We all know communication is a two-way street, so please valued Old Girl, write in, comment and critique… or just share an observation or a memory. Speaking of communications, we now have an Instagram page. Go on, check it out at perthcollegeoga. But before I go, a small tip to all you lucky Sandgropers. If you know one of the millions of Aussies in lockdown, please reach out and show some empathy – particularly if they’re an Old Girl. Make that call or, better still, send a random treat… chocolates, glitter pens, a magazine, wine, a letter, a toy, a book, flowers, anything. Because trust me, for those of us locked up, the smallest change in routine, the smallest spark of joy, the smallest thought is a BIG deal in these difficult days. Stay well dear Old Girls.
MIGNON (HENNE) STEWART (1988) mignonstewart@icloud.com
Old Girls' Association 2021 Commitee PRESIDENT STEPHANIE (JENNINGS) FULLARTON (1979) VICE PRESIDENT LINDA (MEYERS) HYLAND (1968) SECRETARY KATRINA (PORT) HARRISON (1988) TREASURER JEN (STEWART-WYNNE) SARRE (1988) BURSARY TRUSTEES PRESIDENT, TREASURER AND FOUNDATION REPRESENTATIVE
Young Old Girls' Advisory (YOGA) Sub Committee CO-ORDINATOR JADE GUERRINI (2016)
Letters to the Editor
COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE JANE SCOTT (1975) FOUNDATION REPRESENTATIVE ANGEL CHEN (2008) MYALLA EDITOR MIGNON (HENNE) STEWART (1988) COMMITTEE MALINDA BLAIR (1996) DENISE (JONES) HALL (1979) YVETTE (WIKLUND) JONES (1996) LESLEY (DUNSTAN) KEEN (1958) TOBY (ROSENTHAL) WHYTE (1992)
COMMITTEE ANGEL CHEN (2008) HEATHER GROTH (2012) TANYA MOON (2011) STEPH MUNRO (2012) JASGEET SINGH (2013) CHLOE SMOLENSKI (2016) ELLY ZOUNIS (2016) MARGO ZOUNIS (2016)
Virginia was my mother, and it was so lovely to be able to add this to my memories of my mother. Please pass my thanks and best wishes on to Frances.
I have just read the latest edition of the Myalla and, as usual, found the news of the Old Girls interesting. It was great to read the acknowledgement about the passing of my sister, Elizabeth (Coombs) Walmsley (1953) (dec), or Liffy as she was called by her family and friends. She was a dedicated Old Girl and spent many years on the Committee. We were a family of five daughters, all of whom attended Perth College – Judith ‘Judy’ (Coombs) Berry (1949) was the eldest, followed by twins, Elizabeth and Diana (Coombs) Hunt (1952), myself and the youngest, Patricia ‘Tricia’ (Coombs) Cash (1962) (dec). It is great to get news from PC.
Sue (Giles) Dowling (1966)
Carolyn (Coombs) Burns (1958)
Another wonderful edition of Myalla and perhaps a wise move to amalgamate with Heritage.
Want to get in touch?
Elizabeth (Johnson) Gibson (1963)
Send your Letter to the Editor to myalla@pc.wa.edu.au
I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed reading the May issue of Myalla. In particular, I loved the article about 100-year-old Frances (Russell) Nicholls (1936). In it, she referred to three friends from her PC days – Virginia (Barret-Leonard) Giles, Alice (Fry) Eckersley and Patricia (Burges) Mitchell.
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OLYMPIANS
GIORGIA PATTEN (2016) AND BRIANNA THROSSELL (2013) IN ACTION AND WITH THEIR TEAMMATES AT THE TOKYO OLYMPICS EARLIER THIS YEAR.
A Dream Come True Two Old Girls Celebrate Success at the Tokyo Olympics
It was an exciting Olympic campaign for the Perth College community, who was cheering on two Old Girls representing Australia on the world’s biggest sporting stage. Rower, Giorgia Patten (2016), was selected to make her Olympic debut as part of the Australian Women’s Eight and swimmer, Brianna Throssell (2013), jumped in the pool for five events at her second Olympics. In a chat with the Myalla, Giorgia described seeing her name listed for the team as a “dream come true”. “When I was officially selected in the Women’s Eight, I initially felt an overwhelming sense of relief, which was quickly followed by an eagerness and excitement of what was ahead. It felt hugely rewarding for the work I’ve done in the lead up to get there and I couldn’t wait to get out there in the Eight and start training,” she said. “I was the youngest in the crew but surrounded by some amazingly experienced and successful athletes which really built my confidence in what we were capable of achieving.”
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Giorgia has had a decorated career since leaving Perth College, rowing for WA in the Youth Eight in 2017 and 2018, and the Senior Women’s Eight in 2019 and 2021. Among her achievements, she is also a national U23 and senior champion and placed second at the World U23 Championships. In Tokyo, the Australian Women's Eight placed third in their heat, fourth in the repechage and fifth in the Olympic A final and, while it wasn’t quite the result the team was hoping for, Giorgia said her Olympic experience was a mix of excitement and “tough lessons to be learnt”. “Whilst feeling disappointed that I didn’t come home with a medal, I’m extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to represent Australia at the Olympic Games and proud to call myself an Olympian,” she said. As for what’s next, Giorgia said Tokyo had only inspired her to continue breaking more of her own boundaries. "This result has added fuel to my fire looking forward to Paris 2024,” she said.
“I’m back in Perth now and returning to Curtin University this semester to continue my Physiotherapy degree, which I will complete at the end of next year, and I’ll continue training whilst studying. “The aim is to relocate to the Women’s National Training Centre in Sydney at the end of next year after completing my studies, and hopefully continue pushing towards selection for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.” Meanwhile, Brianna swam to success in the Tokyo Olympics pool in five events, bringing home one gold and two bronze medals for her swims in multiple relay heats. Brianna was a part of the team to win gold in the 4 x 200m Women’s Freestyle Relay and bronze in both the Women’s 4 x 100m Medley Relay and Mixed 4 x 100m Medley Relay. She also placed eighth in the Women’s 200m Butterfly final and sixth in her semi-final of the Women’s 100m Butterfly, narrowly missing out on a spot in the final.
The OGA is incredibly proud of Giorgia and Brianna and wish them all the very best.
"Jack called me after the race and declared, 'Mum we raced our best’ and that made me prouder than any medal.”
Sonia Cleary Cheers on Her Son to Olympic Bronze I’m sure many of us watched the Tokyo Olympic Games with our hearts in our mouths. Seeing all those elite sportspeople give it their absolute best, with everything coming down to that. One. Moment. In. Time. Try being a parent of one of those Olympians – I can’t fathom those nerves! But that’s just what Sonia (Garreffa) Cleary (1988) experienced as she watched her eldest son, Jack, row his heart out to narrowly win bronze for the Australian Men's Quad Scull. I got the inside vibe on the moment, and I love Sonia’s advice for the parent of an ‘average’ child.
How did it feel to watch Jack and the crew cross the line? It was an absolutely insane experience to watch Jack's race on livestream TV at the home of WA Rowing. The finish line was so intense because it was so damn close and you could feel them all pushing. The whole room was screaming. It was a surreal collapse of joy, pride and relief when his crew crossed the line to take out bronze for Australia. But I have to say, those few minutes leading up to the race were the most powerful for me. The camera crossed to a close up of them in the boat while they were waiting at the start line. I felt the stillness and the
noise. All the years of blood, sweat and tears, his hopes and dreams, all riding on the next few minutes. It must have been incredibly hard to not actually be there? So many people ask me that or have said 'you must be so disappointed you didn't get to go to Tokyo' but not at all. As a parent, we were all in the same boat – the whole world was. The Tokyo Olympics will go down in history and not once did my son ever complain or wish his circumstances were different. As a mum, what effort did you put in over the years? Was it 4.30 am starts for you too? Sure, there were early starts, but it's like those years when you wonder how you are going to get up for your newborn and do the midnight feeds – it's your child and you just do it and somehow you get through it. All four of my kids rowed including Jasmine Cleary (2014) so I did it for many years. But I have to admit, I was never a morning person, so I was the embarrassing mum doing the mad dash in her PJs too many times to count! Any advice for other mums out there that may have an Olympian in their midst? It's advice more for the parents of the 'average' child or the kid who isn't necessarily genetically blessed for sport. Allow them to dream, fill them
with hope, praise their efforts and remind them that as long as they put in the effort and keep trying, they can be successful. Despite what you see today, Jack wasn't my sporty child. He was a very 'solid' kid who also suffered ADHD and he wasn't the most popular at school. But Jack has resilience. He's faced so many knock backs, disappointments and hard lessons, but he's got back up every time a little stronger. I'd say that’s his secret weapon. He was always the underdog, but he never gave up. Is Jack in Perth? Have you seen him in person since the win? Yes! Jack is back in Perth for a while and I feel so blessed to have him home and not stuck over east in lockdown. My heart goes out to the many other athletes over east who came out of hotel quarantine only to go home into lockdown. I was working the day Jack flew in, so he swung past my work and surprised me with a huge hug! I didn't think I'd get emotional, but I burst into tears! Although he's home, I hardly see him. He’s so busy with appearances, community projects, giving back to his old school (Trinity College), plus he’s back in training already. What about you Sonia – what are you up to these days? I have been teaching the joy of dance to children for nearly 30 years. I’m currently choreographing a ballet, The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland, and I’d say it's been my most challenging but magical production to date. But turning 50 makes you re-evaluate life. After raising four kids on my own, I'm exhausted. I feel ready to pack up and go travelling. The next chapter is about me! Ha ha! Stay tuned!
I’m tired even thinking about raising four kids on my own, especially who were all rowers! That’s next level exhaustion! I salute you Sonia, and our sincerest congratulations to Jack. 5
REFLECTIONS OF AN OLD GIRL
Carrie Bickmore When I call Carrie for our interview, things sound a little chaotic in the background, and I’m not surprised. She’s juggling home-schooling three young children with Melbourne in lockdown, plus she works full-time as a host on Network 10’s news and current affairs program, The Project. Carrie also co-hosts a daily radio show across the Hit Network. Now that’s busy! But Carrie Bickmore (1997) is calm and kind. She settles the kids and then generously dives in for a wonderful reflection on her years at Perth College. We also explore her life after school – her successes, including a Gold Logie, as well as the profound sadness of losing her husband to brain cancer.
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"I have very fond memories of school,” Carrie beams. “I began in Year 6 which was the last year of primary school back then. I remember it all felt a bit overwhelming at first, but it was such a nurturing school and I felt at home very quickly."
"For me it was just like, of course you can have a crack, you can do anything you want to do. You can achieve anything,” she states. “That’s how I’ve been raised, but that’s how I felt at school as well."
Carrie says her mum chose Perth College because it had an excellent reputation for educating girls.
“There was nothing that Perth College didn’t think we could be and that was a really wonderful environment to do our learning in.”
"Mum is an educator and she knew what women, girls were capable of and Perth College was very good at that too,” Carrie says, adding with a laugh “the slogan 'confident young women' still sticks in my head”.
The popular broadcaster began her career as a radio newsreader, but dance was her first love and, with self-deprecating humour, she reveals her Year 12 leadership role.
While born in Adelaide, Carrie grew up in the Perth hills suburb of Glen Forrest and lived with her mum, stepfather and his two daughters who also attended PC. She admits the non-traditional family had its challenges, but at school, anything was possible.
"I think it was the first year they ever had a Vice Dance Captain,” she giggles “because I was never ever going to be good enough to be a Dance Captain.” But dance and her teacher, Angela Perry, gave Carrie confidence. “She made school just so awesome for me. She had so much belief in me and really encouraged me into leadership roles and she was a beautiful soul.”
Carrie’s passion for dance, however, didn’t impress the School’s Careers Advisor. "I remember her saying ‘what do you like doing’ and I said 'I like talking and dancing' and she said 'well you’re never going to make a career out of dancing’ which I was slightly offended by at the time,” she laughs. The Careers Advisor then added 'if you like talking, why don’t you study journalism?’ Carrie heeded that advice and graduated in Journalism from Curtin University. She then took a job at 92.9 FM and, while cliched, it’s cute – the news reader fell in love with handsome sports reporter, Greg Lange, and the ambitious couple moved to Melbourne. Carrie read her first bulletin for NOVA FM on her 21st birthday. But the fairytale ride was soon dealt a tragic blow when Greg was diagnosed with brain cancer. "It forced me to grow up very, very, very quickly. It was a really scary, hard time and that was for me, let alone what it was like for Greg." The pair soldiered on and enjoyed a beautiful wedding in 2005 before they had their son, Oliver, in 2007. Tragically, Greg died in 2010 aged just 35. “It was just a frightening decade to be honest and every step of the way we were just learning. It’s just not anything one would assume they’d be doing in their 20s,” Carrie says softly. “But one thing I've learned over the years is I’m certainly not alone. Everyone has their journey, and for a lot of people, it involves pain. It just came to us earlier.” Carrie says it took her a long time before she could talk about brain cancer, however, during her 2015 Gold Logie acceptance speech, she donned a beanie to raise awareness of her late husband's battle.
PHOTO BY CAMPBELL KNOTT
"I didn’t ever plan on raising any money, I just wanted to raise awareness and get government funding. But I set up my foundation because so many people were saying they’d love to help and donate.”
Donate they did. Since then, 'Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer’ has raised almost $20 million. "I’m so proud, not only for me, but it’s a legacy for Greg and our son Oli to know that there’s some way we can channel some of that pain into something that, well I feel like it gives us a purpose and some meaning." Thankfully, the next decade was much kinder on this PC Old Girl. She expanded her profile on The Project, won her Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality and, in 2017, she was inducted onto the Victorian Honour Roll for Women for her charity work. Then, two years later she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for her media work and brain cancer awareness. Carrie also began co-hosting a popular daily radio show. So, what’s this ‘golden girl’s’ take on all that success? Is it ambition? Luck? Raw talent?
"I certainly don’t think it’s raw talent!” she roars with laughter. "I worked my absolute butt off, I don’t know any other way.” "Mum worked incredibly hard and she was my role model and dad always said ‘keep working hard and someone will notice and give you an opportunity’ and he was right.” PC played its part too, Carrie says: “We were always made to feel like anything was possible as a woman in this world." This mother of three is in that busy phase of life. Her son, Oliver, is now 13 and she has two beautiful daughters too with partner Chris Walker, Evie and Adelaide. "I’m just so lucky I’ve got an incredibly supportive partner and I’m so thankful to have a job I like going to every day. I just feel so bloody lucky to be honest.”
You’ve earned that luck, Carrie. Thank you so much for sharing your journey so far. Your strength shines through.
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THE KANGAROO ROUTE
Natalie Krasnostein Did you have one of those girls at school who you just loved even though you hardly knew them? I did, and her name was Nat Kras or Natalie Krasnostein (1988) as the teachers called her. At PC, I adored Nat. She was fun, loud, unashamedly herself and I’d never, ever met anyone like her. This kid had more energy than the sun and I was mesmerised. So, a thousand years later when I randomly contacted her via social media, I was stunned to learn she was in hotel quarantine in my hometown of Melbourne. She’d flown in from Israel a week earlier to see her family. I lobbied for lunch and we were lucky to sit down together in between lockdowns! From the get-go, Nat was fabulously open.
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When you hear the words ‘Perth College’ what are your first thoughts and emotions? Great friendships with great girls, the fabulous 80s, love of Drama class, school productions, the School Uniform (wearing a tie is the very antithesis of how I have built my life now), school balls, 80s dresses and hair, electric, dense, alive, teenage years full of hope, fun, fantastic social activities, divorce trauma, rebelling from the establishment, body image issues, drinking diet coke as food, wearing mum’s huge sunglasses to hide my puffy eyes after I’d been crying all night from what was dissolving at home. I was embracing my youth at school, yet at home, that story was ending. Why did your parents send you to PC, particularly given that you’re Jewish? The choice was given to me and I decided to go to PC because there were more creative arts subjects and I wanted a different and new experience. Many Jewish families were deciding to send their kids to private schools other than Carmel, the Jewish School, for more exposure to different aspects of the wider world. PC welcomed Jewish girls and wanted to make it comfortable for us – apart from occasional Chapel and singing hymns at morning assembly, I didn't feel that religion was imposed on us whether we were Jewish or not.
Did you feel different as a Jewish person at PC? Being raised as a Jew in Australia was a constant negotiation my entire life. Now that I live in Israel and I’m the majority, I have noticed my need to defend and negotiate my Jewishness has relaxed, so I can just be. At one point, we didn't have to go to Chapel at Perth College, but then it was made compulsory. I remember silently mouthing the hymns because singing Christian hymns was an act of utter disloyalty to my God and my Jewish sensibilities. You did Year 12 at PC – how did that go for you and what did you do after school? I wasn't very studious at school. I didn't evolve as a thinker until my 20s. I went on to do something different every year for about 12 years, which included spending a gap year in Israel, getting a Psych degree, going to Theatre and Art school, teaching modern dance at an Indigenous Youth Centre in Broome, spending time in America and Israel learning ancient Jewish text and delving deeply into Judaism. My Psychology Honours thesis focused on the intergenerational effects of the Holocaust on the third generation – my generation. I went on a family roots journey to Eastern Europe and explored where my family were born, married, lived, worked, died, were murdered. I went to Auschwitz in Poland and Mauthausen in Austria.
"School for me was a redemptive process. I didn’t evolve as a thinker until my twenties. School for me was all about social development.”
parents were amazing – each in their unique way. I needed them and I still need them. I don't have kids, so there's an even greater existential emptiness. But emptiness is not the end of the story – for me, it is an invitation into living life with purpose and meaning.
"I decided to go to PC because there were more creative arts subjects and I wanted a different and new experience."
I kept being drawn to concentration camps. It was like I was unfreezing ancient trauma by walking the land where their lives were interrupted. You wrote and starred in a onewoman theatre show, In God’s Bedroom. How did that come about? When I was 20, I studied Theatre in Melbourne and a solo show was considered the culmination of the learning and 13 years later, I was ready, because I felt like I had something to say. I'd been engaging deeply in ancient Jewish text, and I drew on various sources to create the show where God is portrayed as a lonely woman who falls in love with King David. The show brought the text to life using comedy, tragedy and physical theatre. Tell me about the move to Israel. Why did you move and how hard has it been? I moved to Israel in 2016. I'd spent three years here at different times of my life (17, 26 and in my 30s). Each time I encountered a different intense and interesting experience – living on a Kibbutz, studying the Torah, performing
What are you doing now?
my show. I feel alive here, I work hard to make a living and the pace of life is more intense, but I have a full life. I have a partner, Zack, a cat called Julien, and good friends here. I have languages to learn, Hebrew and Arabic. The Arab world is opening up more and this is interesting to me. I live near the Mediterranean Sea too. The beach is transformative and the heat is something I love, intense and very hot. I’m so sorry to hear your father passed away recently, and I know your mum passed a while ago. Does it change a person when they no longer have parents to anchor them? Thank you for asking this question. We live in an illiterate society when it comes to grief, death, loss. I have a grief doula who helps me. My mum passed in 2010 and my father four months ago. It’s absolutely changed me. For me, there's no other way to face this loss if I'm not seeing it in the context of a spiritual path and self-development. Grieving deeply, feeling every ounce of the loss because it’s enormous, seismic, sometimes too much to bear. My
I work at the Givat Haviva International School as a Theatre teacher. It's an IB school, focused on a shared society between Jews and Arabs and healing the conflict. Internationals and locals live and learn together. It's like a family. I launched my own drama school last year, ‘The Orchard of Dreams’, for anglos in my local community of Pardes Hannah, where I live. I’ve just staged a unique version of The Wizard of Oz. I'm also working on a new solo autobiographical performance piece called After the Tears. Do you ever see yourself returning to Australia to live? Maybe. Zack is American. We talk about spending time in Australia and America. I miss Australia, the bush. I'd love to live in the country. At the moment though, my life is deeply embedded in Israel. I like how I’m evolving here.
See – more energy than the sun! Thank you so much for your truths, Nat Kras, and we wish you all the best with your new play.
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WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING
RINA’S ARTWORK AND THE C&M T-SHIRT
WAM Song of the Year For Country Singer Country singer/songwriter and our former cover girl, Siobhan Cotchin (2017), took out the coveted West Australian Music (WAM) Song of the Year Grand Prize for her song, Just The Way It Is. In an extra epic achievement, the song also claimed first prize for Best Blues/Roots Song. Just The Way It Is explores the sadness and hope that emerges from the departure of a relationship. Her song, The Fair-Weather Friend Blues, was also nominated back in June but missed out. It has been a big year for Siobhan, who was named the 2020 WAM Best Country Act in March, released her new single Highway Song in June and is supporting Bob Evans on his national Tomorrowland album tour.
Emeritus Professor Status for Accomplished Old Girl and Board Member It is a prestigious and recognised accomplishment and now Dr Jane Scott (1975) can add it to her long list of career achievements after she was named an Emeritus Professor at Curtin University earlier this year. Before retirement, Jane, who sits on the PC Foundation Board and is the OGA representative on PC Council, held the position of Professor of Public Health Nutrition Research at Curtin University. She was Vice Captain of Lawley House and President of the Student Representative Council at PC before going on to become a nutritionist/dietitian, completing a Master of Public Health and a PhD in Nutritional Epidemiology. Jane has worked as a university academic for most of her career, first at Curtin and then at the University of Glasgow and Flinders University in South Australia, before returning to a research position at Curtin in 2013. She has also served on a number of professional boards and committees and was inducted as a Fellow of the Dietitians Association of Australia and made a life member in 2021 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the profession. Congratulations Jane.
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ELLA VAN LEEUWEN (2020) AND HER ARTWORK, MEMORIA INNOCENTES
On Display at Pulse Perspectives Exhibition Ella Van Leeuwen (2020) celebrated the success of her artwork, Memoria Innocentes (Innocent Memory), which was displayed at this year’s Pulse Perspectives exhibition at the Art Gallery of WA. The showcase ran from May to August, presenting the best pieces from WA's talented young artists. Ella’s coat, which was part of her multimedia artwork, was chosen for the annual exhibition. Ella investigated her family history with the sculptural coat, exploring how her grandparents grew up in war-torn Europe and telling a story of how memories can be a burden.
A Taste of Politics at YMCA Youth Parliament 2017 St Michael Award winner, Meleva Thorn (2017), had the unique and valuable experience of working as a politician when she was selected for the 26th YMCA Youth Parliament earlier this year. Youth Parliament is a national project that gives young people a chance to stand up and have their voices heard. Meleva represented Midland MLA and the first female Speaker of WA Parliament, Hon Michelle Roberts, who joined in on the event, along with fellow members of youth parliament, to discuss current issues.
Taking a Love of Science to the Stage KATE O’SULLIVAN (2006) WAS RECENTLY CAST AS THE LEAD CHARACTER IN A LOCAL PRODUCTION
Combining her two greatest loves of science and theatre, Kate O’Sullivan (2006) was recently cast as the lead character in a local production of Emilie: La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight by Lauren Gundersonas. Taking to the stage just before National Science Week in August, Kate played 18th century French scientist and philosopher, Emilie du Châtelet. After graduating from PC, Kate studied nanotechnology specialising in Chemistry. She spent the early days of her career working on innovative projects and in the field of scientific research. She is now studying her Masters in Primary Teaching with a focus on Science. Kate enjoys spending her spare time in the theatre and said playing the character of Emilie is her favourite role to date.
“It's great when you find a role you connect with so much. She was the closest thing you'd get to an 18th century feminist,” Kate told the Mandurah Mail.
Ivy League Education a Dream Come True Millie Ketvoravit (2019) recently achieved her lifelong goal of being accepted into an Ivy League university. After studying Hotel Management at New York University, Millie transferred to Hotel Administration at Cornell University in September. Millie said she was proud of herself and thanked Principal Helen Aguiar for the support during her time at PC. “I would not have made it here without my journey at PC. Cornell has always been my dream school as it has the best hospitality program in the United States,” Millie added.
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WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING
OLD GIRLS, ANN (WARDMAN) SMITH (1967), ISABEL (SQUIERS) COLE (1965), AND PC CHAPLAIN, REVEREND LINDA PILTON JOIN REVEREND WENDY GILBERT (1973)
A Special Commissioning to the Parish of Applecross
'PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST SCRUTINISING THE VIEWER' BY MELISSA CLEMENTS (2016)
Lester Prize Finalist Celebrates Art Achievement Talented former Art Captain, Melissa Clements (2016), was selected as a finalist in the 2021 Lester Prize in August with her self-portrait piece, Portrait of the artist scrutinising the viewer. Melissa was also a finalist in the Youth Category in 2012 (while she was at PC) and has been a semi-finalist three times since then. Now, a step closer to taking out the coveted prize, Melissa said she has “achieved a dream I set almost 10 years ago”. “I’ve always spent a lot of mental energy trying to make the cut, but this year I just made a piece that was totally honest and raw and, in the end, that was enough,” she said. “This piece culminates everything I’ve been feeling over the past few months as it feels like the world is being turned upside down and trying to make sense of it. It’s very personal and intimate. I feel exposed, but I also want the viewer to feel exposed when they look at the painting as well.” The nomination comes after Melissa held her biggest art exhibition to date last December which celebrated faces and stories through a series of incredible portraits. She will conclude her Art History Honours research in June next year and then aims to pursue fine art full time and grow her private tuition business. We wish her all the best with the announcement of the Lester Prize winner in October.
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The Reverend Wendy Gilbert (1973) was commissioned to the Parish of Applecross earlier this year. Wendy has been an Anglican Priest for more than 25 years at a number of parishes and chaplaincies, including in the Defence Force and at prisons. She is now the Priest in Charge of the Applecross Anglican Church. Wendy joins former Principal, Judith Cottier, who’s also a parishioner there, and former Chaplain, The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy AO, who was a previous rector there. Old Girls, Ann (Wardman) Smith (1967) and Isabel (Squiers) Cole (1965), and Perth College Chaplain, Reverend Linda Pilton, also attended the commissioning (pictured above).
Sharing Knowledge with the Next Generation of Musicians Former Music Scholarship student and decorated viola player, Eunise Cheng (2010) had the honour of presenting a webinar recently on behalf of Musica Viva’s ‘FutureMakers’ leadership program. The twoyear program aims to set artists up to become musical leaders of tomorrow. Eunise, who was selected last year as the founding violist of the Patridge String Quartet, has been taking part in strategic workshops with leading artists, directors and industry consultants, but this time she was imparting her own knowledge on the next generation. Since leaving PC, Eunise has had a diverse career performing as an orchestral and chamber musician around the country. She completed her Master of Music Research at Queensland’s Griffith University, attended the Australian National Academy of Music’s professional performance program in Melbourne and is now a teacher in the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s music education outreach program, the ‘Pizzicato Effect’.
Reverend Welcomed Back
REVEREND JOANNA COLGAN (1994) RETURNS TO PC ALONGSIDE CHAPLAIN, REVEREND LINDA PILTON
It was a trip down memory lane for Reverend Joanna Colgan (1994) who returned to Perth College in August to undertake her ministry practicum. Joanna’s ministry placement is part of her ongoing training as a Chaplain in the Australian Defence Force and will go through until the end of 2022. During this time, she will complete her studies and work with Perth College Chaplain, Reverend Linda Pilton, and teacher, Andrew Milne, to build her experience within our school community. We wish Joanna every success and look forward to seeing her around the campus.
A Special Networking Opportunity at Pleiades In August, OGA Committee representatives attended the annual Pleiades (Seven Sisters) meeting at Iona Presentation College. Pleiades is an opportunity for Alumni Associations from each of the IGSSA schools to come together and share ideas and experiences. As always, it was a very collegial and interesting evening.
Old Girls Return for Dance Production Perth College welcomed back a number of Old Girls this year to choreograph pieces for the biennial dance production, SPIN. This year’s performance, Origins, featured meaningful and varied dance works from guest choreographers, including six former Dance students. Claudia Aves (2019) worked with Year 7 and 8 students on her performance, Cloudburst, while Georgia Fullarton (2017) and Emily Williams (2017) choreographed Tradition together. Ella Mahoney (2018) also contributed with her piece, Where to Now? and Linh Swindells (2019) and Tayla Hunt (2019) paired up to choreograph Rescue Me.
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WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING
Order of Australia Medals Awarded to Two Old Girls The Reverend Dr Jennifer (Gibson) Turner OAM (1961) and Dr Betsy (House) Buchanan OAM (1965) were both recently awarded Medals (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division. Dr Turner was recognised for her service to the Baptist Church and to Churches of Christ. She has been a Pastor at the Dianella Church of Christ and Parkerville Baptist Church, as well as Minister-atLarge at Subiaco Church, Director at Connections Counselling WA, Pastoral team member at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and a writer, senior lecturer and member on multiple boards. Dr Buchanan was awarded for her many decades of volunteer work with the Indigenous community. She is especially trusted by the Noongar people in the Perth metropolitan area to provide assistance in a variety of areas from homelessness to legal matters or financial aid.Congratulations Jennifer and Betsy on such outstanding and generous careers.
Calling All Musical Stars
In 2023, the Old Girls’ Association will celebrate 110 years of connecting Old Girls and we need your help to celebrate! We are planning a musical extravaganza and we need a talented violinist, cellist, pianist and dancers. We are also seeking 110 voices of all abilities. Please register your interest at oga@pc.wa.edu.au.
A Great Turnout for Yoga by YOGA In May, dozens of Young Old Girls grabbed their mats, donned their active wear and started their day with a calming yoga session. Hosted by the Perth College Young Old Girls’ Advisory (YOGA), this was the second Yoga by YOGA event bringing together Perth College Leavers aged 18 to 30. Led by Sasha John (2016), the 50-minute yoga session nourished the mind while a delicious breakfast afterwards nourished the body. It was a wonderful way to enjoy some exercise, sunshine and the company of new and old friends, as well as raise funds for the Class Gift Appeal’s new half scholarship through a raffle on the day.
PHOTOS BY JOSIE NOLAN (2016)
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OLD GIRLS MENTOR BREAKFAST
Old Girls Offer Advice to this Year’s Leavers In June, we were lucky to welcome back a number of Old Girls as mentors for our annual Year 12 Mentor Breakfast. The event provides students with an opportunity to ask questions about the careers they aspire to, discuss the transition from school to tertiary education and learn about the realities of working life in industries that interest them.
Old Girls Back on Court for Annual Tennis Competition
OGA Sisters’ Memorial Bursary Recipients Lunch 2021
It was a great day at the Over 40s Old Girls Tennis Competition this year. Hosted by St Hilda’s after last year’s cancellation due to COVID-19, the tournament was again won by PLC. Despite not making the top four, Perth College players were enthusiastic and enjoyed the day. After 22 years of rivalry between the seven Pleiades schools, Santa Maria and Iona will join the competition next year, which will be hosted by PLC. Everyone is looking forward to an even bigger event and all PC Old Girls over 40 are welcome to play.
We celebrated the recipients of the Old Girls' Association Bursary at their annual lunch in August. The Sisters' Memorial Bursary is awarded to a daughter or granddaughter of members of the OGA and is currently held by Senior School recipients, Emma, Amelia, Emily, Stella, Kalicia and Mia. As part of the event, four of the students met with Old Girls for a delicious lunch and shared stories of their Perth College experience.
LEFT TO RIGHT: KATE BAILEY (1986), SALLY (HEATON) MCLARTY (1984), LIZ MOIR (1986), CLAIRE (MARSHAL) POLL (1983), MARGO (STINTON) SALMON (1960), ANNE TAYLOR (1984), ANNE-MARIE (MOIR) HOGAN (1984), MELINDA (BURNS) DITCHBURN (1984) AND JANE TAYLOR (1981)
SISTERS MEMORIAL BURSARY RECIPIENTS, EMMA, AMELIA, EMILY AND MIA WITH OLD GIRLS' ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES, STEPHANIE (JENNINGS) FULLARTON (1979), JANE SCOTT (1975), ANGEL CHEN (2008), LINDA (MEYERS) HYLAND (1968) AND LESLEY (DUNSTAN) KEEN (1958).
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REUNIONS AND EVENTS
Reunions We have been grateful to come together for a number of reunions this year, including the 2, 10, 30, 40, 50, 51, 60 and 61 Year Reunions.
10th
10th
30th
30th
70TH BIRTHDAY FOR 1968 LEAVERS
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80TH BIRTHDAY FOR 1958 LEAVERS
and Events It was extra special to celebrate the 51 and 61 Year Reunions in June and July after the milestone events were postponed last year due to COVID-19. We also caught up with our 1968 Leavers, who were celebrating their 70th birthdays and 1958 Leavers, who were celebrating their 80th birthdays! These gatherings are always a wonderful chance to enjoy each other’s company, laugh and reminisce about old school days! We look forward to celebrating the 20 Year Reunion at the end of October too with a tour of the School, followed by lunch in the Swan Valley.
These gatherings are always a wonderful chance to enjoy each other’s company, laugh and reminisce about old school days.
50th
51st
60th
61st
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SWEET SIXTEEN
Jean (MacGregor) Bourgault (1954) answers 16 questions for 'Sweet Sixteen' 1. Are you happy? I've always considered myself to be a happy person. Why not? I have had a fortunate life for which I am grateful. However, one can’t be happy about the state of the world at the moment due to COVID-19, and clashes between the religions and ideologies of the world. To block out these worries, I like nothing better than to wallow in calm waters at a Hopetoun beach.
2. What do you value the most? Good health and the love of family and friends, starting in Kindy with Jennifer (McKenzie) Bardsley (1954) and carrying on well past 1954. I value the times I have spent with my family at Hopetoun and it has been a joy to see my grandchildren appreciate all that this seaside town and the Fitzgerald National Park have to offer.
3. What are your best memories of your time at Perth College? There are so many! Performances in the ‘Music Club’ in the old ‘Studio’, feeding the hungry boarders at our home some weekends, attending the Youth Concerts with Dorothea Angus, and our end-of-Year-12 celebration at Rottnest with Margaret Button, our vibrant young teacher. I remember those who had a lasting influence on me… Miss Angus, Miss Sainsbury, Mrs Hanrahan and Mrs Button. Last, but not least, I was fortunate to be made Head Girl which, in turn, gave me the honour of being presented to the Queen. Thanks Perth College.
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4. What do you remember about meeting the Queen? When I was led out on to the red carpet and presented to the Queen, I was quite calm. I curtsied and her Majesty smiled and asked me questions about being Head Girl and my future. I told her I wanted to go to university and she asked “here?” and I said “yes”. She smiled again then moved on. It all seemed quite unreal.
5. You have enjoyed a long marriage of 63 years! What’s the trick? Tolerance. Giving each other space to develop one’s own particular interests, but having similar opinions on what really matters helps. Henry and I are both very involved with our families – four married sons and eight very special grandchildren – and we love the same music.
6. What do you fear? Being a burden to my family and those around me as I get older.
7. Aside from your four children, what has been your greatest achievement? Not having five! But seriously, I hope in my many years of teaching Music, I have influenced some students to value listening to and making music. I still get a thrill when my piano students get excited by playing pieces they particularly enjoy. It makes life worthwhile.
8. If you could keep only one item in your house, what would it be? My piano. In 1972, Henry convinced me that we could afford a grand piano and it still gives us both great pleasure.
9. What is the most adventurous thing you have done? At 52, I went on a four-month backpacking odyssey with my eldest son, Philip, and two friends which started in Hong Kong and took us through China then on the transSiberian to Moscow, and then through much of continental Europe before finishing in Ireland, England and Scotland. It was hard work at times, but so worthwhile.
10. What era would you most like to live in and why? I’m happy with my era because life was less complicated when we were younger. However, Henry just reminded me that we now have better access to health care, easier communications, and, for retirees like us who own our homes, we are very fortunate.
11. What do you think about the young people of today? If my grandchildren are any guide, I think they are more self-assured, independent and thoroughly addicted to the raft of technologies that abound.
12. What is your greatest skill? Conducting. The challenge of being able to direct a group of singers or musicians to make lovely sounds is so uplifting.
13. Whose music do you like the most? I love the music of so many composers and so many genres, but my favourites are Beethoven (the greatest intellect), Mozart (joy, pathos and sublime in the Requiem), Schubert (melodies and
Jean and Henry beamin g at their weddin g
lieder), Mendelssohn (everything), Bach (everything) and Tchaikovsky (ballets and passion).
14. What’s your best feature? I’ll have to ask Henry. He said “no grey hairs at 84!” He also said “a personality that endears me to my friends and family”. I hope he's right.
15. If I had my time again… I’d do the same. I always wanted to marry young and have a family, so when I met Henry at a Prefect’s Dance and we started going out, I thought I'd fulfilled my dream and I have. However, I wish I'd been able to have the opportunity to develop my conducting skills further.
16. What would you tell your 16-year-old self? Don’t be frightened of pursuing a dream. If you feel strongly enough about something, try to make it happen. Always be positive and, as my mother always said, a smile is your greatest asset.
Jea n at the age of 52 en joyin g a globa l back pack ing holi day
Jean meeting the Queen in 1954 19
BOARDERS’ BUSH TELEGRAPH
Karen Field It’s probably not too surprising that Karen (Miles) Field (1965) enjoyed a highly successful career in the resources industry. After all, she was right at home playing in the red dirt of Kalgoorlie as a little girl.
What years did you attend Perth College and what was your school experience like?
But this determined woman took her career to the next level, shattering the glass ceiling when she became the first Australian woman to head up a major mining operation – in Argentina no less! For more than three decades, Karen worked tirelessly in the mining industry and, while now retired, she's no less driven. In 2016, she became Chair of the Perth College Foundation, which helps with the long-term financial security of the School, and its assets are flourishing.
I attended as a boarder through years 1962 to 65. I cried solidly for the first week, but soon enjoyed everything that the School had to offer. As a young girl from a small mining community, my eyes were opened to a world of opportunity. For me, it was more than that though – it taught me independence, socialisation and a sense of community. In short, my period at Perth College helped define me as a person and the friends I made there will remain with me forever. Did PC prepare you for the ‘real world’? As a boarder in those days, one needed to be fairly resilient (those who lived remotely went home only three times a year with rare telephone contact and no internet!) I therefore suspect that it was good preparation for the real world, as one had to make many decisions without reference to others. What was your first job and how did your career blossom from there? Early in my Economics undergraduate studies at UWA, I had extended my subject reach into Politics and Industrial Relations. With this
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background, I secured my first job with (then) Western Mining Corporation. Like most of my contemporaries, I worked until I had saved my fare to Europe and then spent three years working and travelling extensively… and mostly having lots of fun! On returning home, I went firstly into the newly developing iron ore industry. Over the next two decades, I then worked in executive roles in a range of organisations in the nickel, gold and base metals sectors across Australia, culminating in my 1998 appointment as President of Minera Alumbrera – the huge copper/ gold joint venture project in Argentina. Please tell us about your experience in South America. When I was offered the chief executive role, I realised it would be a herculean task especially given that it was the first large-scale mining project in the country. Inevitably, there were a myriad of bumps in the road, but I am enormously proud that in a relatively short time, we had become internationally competitive. Most of all however, I am proudest that we were able to bring greater prosperity to the north-western provinces and especially to the families of our workforce.
On a lighter note, when I first arrived in Buenos Aires, I was told by an Argentine (with humour, of course) that I needed to understand that the Argentine people were essentially a bunch of Italians who spoke Spanish, wanted to be English and live in France. With that sort of national personality profile, at least life wasn’t going to be boring! I had also been warned that Argentina was still a really “machismo” society so I capitalised on the shock value for as long as I could, but everyone got used to my presence very quickly of course! And all these years on, the most enduring memories are of the fascinating people, the stunning country and the wonderfully diverse culture. The experience was fantastic and I always encourage young people to leap at any opportunity to work offshore as it is truly enriching.
How important is philanthropy for the School, and in general, to have that spirit in the wider community?
You have been on boards for a long time – has the make-up of boards changed over the years? I’m hoping with more women!
On a personal level, can you tell us about your family life?
Yes, thankfully. When I first took up directorships, I was often the only female presence. However, by the time I left my last ASX50 board, I was delighted that we had three female non-executive directors – each of whom chaired a board committee and added valuable expertise and experience to the business, as one would expect! Do you mentor or support other females to pursue board roles? Of course! I also try to encourage women in senior management to take on a variety of roles rather than being confined to a professional niche. In the mining and allied industries, operational experience is also very important, so I am constantly encouraging young female professionals to apply for management roles outside their comfort zones and be prepared to move to secure breadth and depth of experience.
Philanthropy is critical for the longterm sustainability of our school and we need to encourage our community to continue to “Live Generously” and support our Foundation. With so many pressures in our broader society, it is also my personal view that “those who can, should”. In other words, those of us who have enjoyed significant advantages through education and upbringing need to give back. What advice would you give to young women starting their careers or wanting to step up? Essentially, believe in yourself, continuously broaden your skills base and optimise every opportunity that comes your way.
My wonderful husband of (then) ten years died unexpectedly when I was in my mid 30s and it was, of course, a devastating event for me and our families. Sadly, we had not had children and I was immensely grateful that I was able to throw myself into my work, which at least gave me some focus. However, family is everything to me and I am so lucky that my only brother and his family include me in all their lives. I also view my supportive band of friends as my special family.
What an incredible life, Karen. The stories you must have! Also, thank you for all the work you do with the Perth College Foundation. We truly appreciate it.
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CELEBRATIONS
Weddings All weddings at Perth College’s St Michael Chapel are special, but there was a little more sentimentality for the marriage of Charlotte (Ethell) Spink (2010). The beautiful bride is the youngest daughter of former Principal Jenny Ethell, and the ceremony was conducted by her dad, Reverend Dougall Ethell and Honourary Old Girl, The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy AO. The bride and groom, Benjamin Spink, celebrated their special day in April, joined by Charlie’s sister, Dr Diana Ethell (2008) and fellow Old Girl, Nicola Earls (2010).
PHOTO: HANNAH JONES, KEEPER CREATIVE
Elizabeth (Dale) Page (2015) was married to Joshua Page on 10 April 2021. She was married by her father, Marc Dale, in his parish, St Alban’s Anglican Church, in Highgate before a reception at UWA’s Sommerville Auditorium. Elizabeth’s two sisters who are fellow Old Girls, Charlotte (Dale) Pennell (2014) and Josephine Dale (2018), were her bridesmaids.
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Congratulations to Keely Liddle (2008) who married Hanwen Chan on 1 May 2021 at Lamont’s Bishops House. Keely’s bridesmaids were fellow 2008 Leavers, Clare (Ward) Ward-Noonan, Justine Conway, Prue Hepple and Ilaria Corbett. Keely was also joined by Old Girl, Liz O’Brien (2008) and former Perth College Science teacher, Julia Ward to celebrate her special day.
Over 90's Birthday Club Happy Birthday to our Old Girls who celebrated a 90+ birthday from April 2021 to September 2021.
Judith (Inkpen) Ainge (1949) Suzanne (Edgar) Crabbe (1949) Myrine (Cattlin) Gray (1948) Jill (Richardson) James (1949) Catherine Minchin (1949) Lyn (Cornish) Purser (1947) June (Oliver) Weir (1948) A special congratulations also to Sheila (Wilding) Curlewis (1937) who turned 101 in August! Sheila still hosts her monthly Bridge Club, which includes champagne and nibbles, has regular visitors and is a Life Member of her local Yacht Club. Emma Anderson (2010) married the love of her life, Mikey Matthews, at Joondalup Resort on 7 March 2021. Her family described it as a “beautiful day with beautiful people”.
SHEILA WITH FORMER PRINCIPAL, JENNY ETHELL.
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CONDOLENCES
Fondly Remembering Jennifer ‘Jenny’ Adams (1958) Jenny was a boarder from 1956 to 1958 and an avid Old Girl. She passed away peacefully at home in August 2020 and will be sadly missed.
Eve (Atkinson) Prinsen (1941) Eve was a day student at Perth College from 1939 to 1941 and loved her time spent at PC.
Betty (Creek) Donnelly (1946) Betty passed away at the age of 92 at home, surrounded by family and loved ones. She was married to Peter (dec) for 59 years and leaves behind her son, Greg and daughter, Jane.
Felicity (Cusack) Leake (1942) Born in Roebourne in 1937, Felicity married Malcolm in 1950 and went to PC with her sister, Prue (Cusack) Leake (1947) (dec).
Roberta ‘Bobbie’ (Devenish) Bower (1944) Mrs Roberta ‘Bobbie’ Winifred Bower from Busselton passed away peacefully in her sleep. Loving wife of John (dec) and the last of the Devenish siblings, Margaret, Alison, Jeanette and Evan. Loving mother of Lyndy, Pete and Dave.
Jennifer (Harris) Burton (1973)
Hilary (Phillips) McWilliam (1950)
Jennifer passed away peacefully on 8 April, surrounded by her family. Jennifer’s daughter Julieanne (Burton) Barrett (1999) said: “Mum has finished growing her angel wings...”
Hilary attended Perth College and had many happy stories of her time there. She had a sister, Pamela (Phillips) Uittenbroek (1946) (dec) who also recently passed away, and a cousin Avianne Bredmeyer (1989), who both also attended Perth College.
Elizabeth ‘Beth’ (Haselhurst) Wulff (1955) Beth was a life member of the Old Girls’ Association and sadly passed away on 3 May 2021, leaving behind her loving husband, Kevin.
Audrey (Hunt) Atwell (1944) Audrey was a day student at PC and passed away at the age of 93. She will be missed by friends and family.
Zandra (Kerr) Riley (1948) Zandra passed away peacefully at the age of 90. She attended PC with her sister, Yvonne (Kerr) Ralph (1944) (dec). Dearly loved wife of Jim (dec) and much-loved mother of Jim Jnr and John and grandmother of Max, Maddeson and Sam.
Margaret (King) Gawler (1949) Margaret was a day student at Perth College and sadly passed away after a short illness in May 2021.
Robin (Giles) Kendall (1953)
Keren (Longman) Ahern (1963)
Robin was an excellent student and boarder, rising to Head Prefect at Perth College where she attended until graduation in 1953. She then studied Science, Mathematics and Dentistry at the University of Western Australia, among a handful of women students there at the time. Robin had two sisters at PC, Caroline Giles (1954) (dec) and Christina (Giles) Lyall (1962) (dec). She leaves behind niece, Isobel Lyall (1992) and nephew, Rewi Lyall (1989).
Keren was able to contribute to the planning of her beautiful funeral at the Perth College Chapel on 23 August after a battle with cancer. She is fondly remembered by her loving husband, Tony.
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Alison (MacKenzie) Prior (1950) Alison sadly passed away in Melbourne on 24 April. She attended Perth College Junior School and left after what is now Year 8. She was the same year as her cousin and Head Girl, Diana (Greig) King (1950) (dec).
Elizabeth ‘Lyle’ (Broad) Hopkinson (1942) Lyle sadly passed away in January, aged 96. Her daughter, Anne, said: “Thank you to PC for mum’s development towards a long, fruitful and hardworking life. PC had a huge positive impact on her!”
Pamela (Phillips) Uittenbroek (1946) Pamela was a counsellor and enjoyed receiving updates from Perth College over the years. She had a sister, Hilary (Phillips) McWilliam (1950) (dec) who also recently passed away, and a cousin Avianne Bredmeyer (1989), who both also attended Perth College.
Patricia (Pike) Benson-Brown (1946) Patricia sadly passed away at 93 years old. She was a generous donor to the School and loved her days at Perth College.
Pamela (Salter) Melrose (1958) Pamela attended PC as a day student with her sister, Anne (Salter) Wells (1951) (dec).
The Myalla would like to retract and apologise for a Condolences notice mistakenly included in the May edition. Perth College was provided with incorrect information stating that Judith (Laurent) Bauch (1960) had passed away, however it was Judith (Inglis) Bauch (1959) who sadly passed away.
CONNECT
Do you know a 'lost' Old Girl? If you know someone who has lost touch with the Old Girls’ Association or has changed their contact details, please encourage them to get in touch with the OGA via oga@pc.wa.edu.au or call 9471 2163 as we would love to reconnect with them.
The OGA is on Instagram Dorothy ‘Dot’ (Sommerville) Stewart (1968) Dot was a much loved and very active OGA Life Member, OGA President from 2014 to 2017 and received the Old Girl of the Year Award in 2019/2020. She was Barron Prefect, a generous donor and good friend to many. She leaves behind a loving husband, Graeme, and sister, Margaret (Sommerville) Gregory (1966). She will be dearly missed.
Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Spooner (1948) Betty was an active member of the OGA and loved by all. She attended PC with her cousin, Lesley (Scott) Blight (1945) (dec).
Catherine Sefton (1972) Catherine was DUX of Science in 1972, Secretary/Treasurer of the 1971 Myola and first in her form in 1970 and 1971. She leaves behind a sister, Rosemary (Sefton) Gillen (1969).
Constance ‘Joyce’ (Roberts) Salmon (1942) Joyce, as she was affectionately known, served two years with WRANS as a Navy Coder in WWII. She moved to Cowaramup to become a dairy farmer and raise a family with her husband, Peter (dec). Sister to Betty (Roberts) Cockburn (1937), Nancy (Roberts) Baird (1944) (dec) and Barbara (Roberts) Keogh (1947) (dec), grandmother to Sarah Roe Hill (1999) and great grandmother to current student Year 10 student, Evie.
The Perth College Old Girls’ Association is now on Instagram! Why not follow us at perthcollegeoga and keep up to date with events and news, share photos and articles and submit information or updates.
Myalla is now available digitally Myalla is now available to be received electronically via email. Those without an email, or who prefer to receive their magazine in the post, can still receive a printed edition. Manage how you would like to receive your Myalla magazine at www.perthcollege.wa.edu.au/community/oldgirls-association
Perth College Foundation The Perth College Foundation conducts appeals throughout the year to raise much-needed funds for facilities, programs and scholarships. Your support is warmly welcomed to help us facilitate ongoing delivery of a world-class educational experience at Perth College. If you would like to make a donation of any kind, please visit the Perth College website at www.perthcollege.wa.edu.au. Alternatively, contact Alumni and Foundation Co-ordinator, Natalie Swannell, on 9471 2196 or email foundation@pc.wa.edu.au.
Thank you for your generous donations We sincerely thank those that have supported the Perth College Old Girls’ Association through significant and generous donations. All contributions large or small are greatly appreciated.
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