Green Tartan Volume 25 Semester 1 / 2021
DIARYDATES (* Pending COVID restrictions)
Sept 3 16
Starry Night of Music, Dance & Drama Valedictory Day & Year 12 Formal
Oct 5 2022 Prefect Leadership Induction 19 HSC Commences 22-24 Annual OGU Reunion* Weekend including INSPIRE & “Birida Brunch” Nov 3-6 13 14
WICKED production Starry Night of Sport PLC Armidale Old Girls’ Union A/Tea
Dec 1 2 3
Nine Lessons and Carols Speech Day Guild Drama
STAFFNEWS Mrs Sue Westley - after 11 years of faithful service at the main PLC Armidale Reception, Sue and her husband have decided to retire to the coast to be closer to family. Thank you Sue for all you have contributed in your time at PLC Armidale. We’re sure you’ll enjoy the warmer climate! Ms Alison Dare - left PLC Armidale at the end of Term 2 to take up a position as Library Learning and Information Services Leader at Bishop Druitt College, Coffs Harbour from the commencement of Term 3. Ali has had a longstanding connection with both PLC Armidale and the broader community and we wish her all the best in her new role and warmer location. Miss Millie Brissett - a PLC Armidale graduate herself, has been doing an extraordinary job as a Duty Mistress then House Mother in the Boarding House during the past few years (along with a multitude of other tasks such as bus driver and activities coordinator!). She leaves PLC Armidale to commence a position in Tamworth as an Assistant Accountant with Rapid Plas. Mrs Millie Graham - after just over three years as the part-time Music Administration Assistant, Millie has decided to move on to her next adventure. She won’t be going too far though and will be the friendly face working with the team at See Saw Cafe.
FROM THE EDITOR
The PLC Armidale Green Tartan magazine is produced bi-annually. Any interesting articles, photos or relevant information are always welcome! Photography: College staff, parents and students; Chasing Summer Design: www.creativebygeorge.com.au Cover Photo: Pre-K Students Ruby Chapman and Harper Wang For further information regarding these events or other significant dates, contact Mrs Sam Crick, 02 6770 1788 or communications@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au Presbyterian Ladies’ College Armidale 2350 NSW www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
For Regular updates, follow our story on our social media pages: Member of the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia (AGSA) Member of the Association of Heads of Independent Girls’ Schools (AHIGS) Member of the Australian Boarding Schools’ Association (ABSA)
Mrs Shona Eichorn - After almost nine years of dedicated and passionate service to PLC Armidale in the role of Director of Development, Shona is leaving to take up the position as CEO of the Northern Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS). Shona first moved to the New England as the inaugural NIAS Executive Officer in 1992 and now returns to oversee its much expanded operations as now a much larger organisation, in an exciting time for sport in Australia. Shona has served on the voluntary board of NIAS for the past couple of years so is perfectly placed to strengthen opportunities for regional, community based sport. Shona’s warm, generous and enthusiastic advocacy for PLC Armidale and contribution to all aspects of College operations, particularly her work with our stakeholder groups and Executive will be greatly missed and we extend our sincerest gratitude for all her contributions. We wish her well in her future career endeavours.
AS THINGS CHANGE
AFTER THE RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS THAT CHARACTERISED 2020, THE SEMESTER ONE EDITION OF THE GREEN TARTAN IS A SHOWCASE OF PLC ARMIDALE DOING WHAT IT SEEKS TO DO BEST TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES, EXPERIENCES AND CHALLENGES THROUGH WHICH GIRLS GROW AND FLOURISH. One lesson learned through this season of Covid-19 is the importance of community and the connections forged through shared experiences. Another is the opportunities that arise f rom challenge and change. Beyond 2020 some change has become the new norm, hygiene and handwashing, sign-ins and screening. Beyond 2020, one thing is certain, change is the new normal.
Mrs Nicola Taylor Principal
Brand Refresh New Strategic Direction You may have noticed that the PLC Armidale logo is looking slightly different. In 2020, we looked at our brand f rom all different perspectives and it was decided that a little Brand ‘ref resh’ would be just what the College needed moving forward and that it would align with our new Strategic direction. Our tagline was also changed f rom “Educating Successful Women in a Christian Environment” to simply “Where Girls Flourish”. The change was conducted by a graphic design business, Boheem and is a beautiful representation of PLC Armidale and its mission, values and purpose.
One of the f irst changes you may notice in this edition of the Green Tartan, is our brand ref resh. A College with a history as lengthy as PLC Armidale, does not let go of its traditions lightly so the features of our logo remain intact - the rampant lion, a symbol of strength and courage, the St Andrew’s Cross signifying the Scottish heritage of the Presbyterian Church, the three stars depicting the College motto
“Ad Astra - To The Stars”, the open book uppermost in the shield highlighting the centrality of the written word, the Bible, of truth, of learning. However, some tweaking to colour, line, tone and placement strengthens the signif icance of the logo and all it represents to the future of the College as well as to its past. Welcome to our new Head of Senior School, Mr Mitchell Clendinning whose insight, experience commitment to the education of girls matches that of our Head of Junior School, Mrs Fiona Wake.The pages of this Green Tartan highlight once more the collaboration between Junior School and Senior School as staff and students work together to strengthen students learning through the academic endeavour, creative arts, leadership, sports and adventure. Enjoy seeing more of the PLCAdvantage!
UPDATED PLC ARMIDALE BRANDING WHAT LOGO TO USE
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OUREVENTS
WHOLE SCHOOL RECESS
JUNIOR SCHOOL MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST Early in Term 2, our Junior School hosted the annual Mother’s Day breakfast in the Dining Room. Our girls showered their mums with love, affection and gratitude, together with beautifully crafted gifts such as a recipe with ingredients that mums and daughters could cook together at home. Following a delicious breakfast, the Mums joined their daughters for a special Chapel service.
“IT HAS BEEN A PLEASURE TO WATCH THE GIRLS BUILD FRIENDSHIPS BETWEEN SENIOR AND JUNIOR GIRLS...”
WHOLE SCHOOL RECESS Throughout Semester 1, every Monday recess was extended to facilitate the whole school gathering together. In Term 1, the Junior School girls went over to the Senior School Rose Garden and had fun with bubbles, skipping ropes and games organised by the big girls. In Term 2, it was the Junior School who hosted recess and the big girls relished the opportunity to play on the swings and climbing equipment and play some football with the little girls. It has been a pleasure to watch the girls build friendships between Senior and Junior girls and showcase the nurturing across the PLC Armidale community from Pre-K to Year 12.
ANZAC DAY 2021 On Sunday 25 April, our student leaders represented PLC Armidale at the town service and laid a wreath on behalf of the College. The following morning, we stood together around the flagpole in the Rose Garden, to pay our respects to those who have served our country during times of conflict and crisis, and to reflect upon their selfless sacrifice #LestWeForget
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OUREVENTS
REGIONAL TOUR PRINCIPAL’S REGIONAL TOUR 1 Over 1200km in three days, one event at a time, visiting and stimulating the economy of our region. Our Principal and Director of Development traversed the diverse New England, North West and Central West regions, meeting with PLC Armidale families past, present and prospective, on the first Principal’s Regional Tour for the year. “We were encouraged to hear the genuine interest to invest in an all-girls’ education for their daughters, regionally. We experienced such
THE FATHERING PROJECT Despite the horrendously cold weather and snow, it was wonderful to see so many fathers and father-f igures across the Junior and Senior Schools at the launch of our partnership with The Fathering Project. Our PLC Armidale Dads Group is already growing and we look forward to seeing some future father-daughter and PLC Armidale Dads group events!
wonderful hospitality in each of the locations we visited and would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to each local business who hosted us,” commented Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor. The next two tours in Term 3 were sadly cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions.
OURJUNIORSCHOOL
OH WHAT FUN WE HAD!
JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
EARTH DAY PLANTING
SRC FUNDRAISER INITIATIVE
Our Junior School playground was a hive of activity in Term 1, when we celebrated Earth Day by planting a small area with native plants, guided by some wonderful volunteers from the Armidale Tree Group. This was the official commencement of a long term Junior School SRC initiative, to restore natural ecosystems, promote local wildlife such as birds, lizards and bees, and reduce carbon emissions within the playground.
Term 2 lunchtimes were fun and action packed, as the SRC raised money for Ronald McDonald House. The Junior SRC developed this initiative from planning, coordinating, communicating, setting and packing up, which involved an internal fete of: Drama skits, a cake sale, fashion parade, elephant stall and face painting. Enabling leadership opportunities from a young age is so important for each girl’s personal growth development. Service leadership at PLC Armidale is actively encouraged, and giving to a worthy cause shows support of others less fortunate than ourselves.
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OURSENIORSCHOOL
WHERE GIRLS FLOURISH YEAR 11 I BUSINESS STUDIES MARKETS
WE LOVE EXCURSIONS...
During Term 2, our Year 11 Business Studies class organised a series of ‘Market Day Fetes’ at recess as part of their ‘Business Planning’ course. The Junior School playground bustled with staff and students wandering the stalls, admiring and purchasing sweet treats, milkshakes, jewellery and cute little plants. The girls raised $1467.35 for their efforts which they have generously donated to the purchase of a new canoe for use in the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic.
Whilst our Year 12 students sat their half yearly exams, girls in Years 7-11 participated in their annual excursion program in a variety of locations: Years 7 & 8 enjoyed the sights and sounds of Dubbo; Year 9 loved getting down and dirty at Lake Keepit; Year 10 enjoyed all on offer in the nation’s capital and Year 11 explored nearby Coffs Harbour.
FRIENDSHIP CONNECT CAMP The annual Friendship Camp held at Echidna Gully was again another brilliant way for our Year 11 Peer Support Leaders to connect with and encourage all the new Year 7 girls.
THE SCOPE The latest edition of the student magazine, The Scope, is now available. Congratulations to new Editors, Sarah Waters and Azaria Jones, and their team, on a fabulous job on The Bold issue! Please go to our website to read all about it!
UNE SCIENCE & ENGINEERING In Term 1, some of our senior girls competed at University of New England in the annual Science and Engineering Challenge. The girls were presented with communication, bridge engineering, electricity creation and distribution, furniture creation and network challenges.
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OURSTUDENTLEADERS
THE TRADITION CONTINUES
PREFECTS’ AFTERNOON TEA The young leaders of Armidale gathered in Term 2 for the annual Prefects’ Afternoon Tea, which has been generously hosted by PLC Armidale for over a decade. Over 40 prefects and captains from all Armidale schools: Armidale Secondary College, NEGS, O’Connor Catholic College and TAS were invited by the PLC Armidale prefects to our beautiful campus for the opportunity to connect and share stories and experiences of their leadership journeys. The community of Armidale should be extremely proud of these bright young people.
OURBOARDING
‘IT TAKES A TEAM TO BE A LEADER’
GOVERNOR GENERAL VISIT In Term 1, our Head Prefect Lilly McCook and Deputy Head Prefect Esther Eickhoff, had the opportunity to meet and talk with the Governor General His Excellency, the Honourable David Hurley and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley.
The girls left the event so impressed by His Excellency, the way he leads and his insightful information and quotes on how to be a good leader. Two quotes that really inspired the girls were ‘It takes a team to be a leader’ and ‘It takes an ego to lead but never lead by your ego.’ Wonderful words for our PLC Armidale leaders to aspire to.
From the annual Coast weekend to themed parties for Super Heroes, Red Carpet Ready glamour and a Pyjama party, our boarders were not short of activities to participate in, throughout Semester 2. The girls were also kept entertained with weekend activities such as candle making, crafting and cooking, as well as simply spending time together, building that bond of boarder sisterhood across all year groups.
IWD QUOTA BREAKFAST Our student leaders represented PLC Armidale beautifully at the annual Quota International Women’s Day Breakfast held at the Armidale City Bowling Club in March. This year, the girls were treated to an inspiring speech from Rhianna Feenstra (2019 NENW Regional Business Awards - Business of the Year and Young Entrepreneur Award, OCC Graduate). #choosetochallenge
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ATHLETICS CARNIVAL CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AGE CHAMPIONS FOR 2021: 8 YEARS Maria UGWAMBA 9 YEARS Evie DONALDSON 10 YEARS Anne UGWAMBA 11 YEARS Kate LOXLEY 12 YEARS (JUNIOR SCHOOL) - Ava NOTLEY 12 YEARS (SENIOR SCHOOL) - Stephanie BLAKE 13 YEARS Emily BLAKE 14 YEARS Scarlett LOXLEY 15 YEARS Chiyo BROWN 16 YEARS Lucy YOUNG 17 YEARS Isabelle PIETERSE 18 YEARS Imogen DELLOW
WILKIE WAS THE WINNING GUILD ON THE DAY AND LOVELL WON THE TRADITIONAL MARCHING
It was great to be able to again host our carnivals this year, as last year’s Athletics Carnival was held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions. Not 1, not 2, but an incredible 10 records were broken at our 2021 Athletics Carnival. Special congratulations to Evie Donaldson (Year 3) who broke the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and High Jump records in the 9 years age division.
CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL + COLOUR RUN WELL DONE TO ALL THE COMPETITORS AND CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AGE CHAMPIONS FOR 2021: 7YRS 8YRS 9YRS 10YRS 11YRS 12YRS 12YRS 13YRS 14YRS 15YRS 16YRS 17YRS
Isabella WYATT Lexie KAY Evie DONALDSON Amelia BELSON Kate LOXLEY (JUNIOR SCHOOL) - Anais DETTWILER (SENIOR SCHOOL) - Stephanie BLAKE Sophie BAILEY Scarlett LOXLEY Chiyo BROWN Maya HESS Emma DAUPARAS
It’s wonderful that PLC Armidale is located on such amazing acreage that we are able to host the annual Cross Country Carnival on our own campus at the end of Term 1. The afternoon was made even more fun with a splash of colour!
Well done also to our other new record holders: Sienna Dellow (15 years 200m) Scarlett Loxley (14 years 1500m) Chiyo Brown (15 years 3000m) Ava Notley (12-13 years Long Jump) Stephanie Blake (Senior School 12 yrs Long Jump)
NIAS SELECTIONS Congratulations to the following girls who have been selected in the Northern Inland Academy of Sport programs for 2021: Jorja Power (Hockey), Jenna Marquardt (Hockey) Emma Dauparas (hockey), Charlotte Baker (Netball), Lily Higgins (Netball), Holly Sheedy (Netball), Mia Montgomery (Rugby).
OURSPORT REPRESENTATIVE SPORT It has been encouraging to see so many of our PLC Armidale girls participating and gaining selection in representative teams in their chosen sports and achieving at the next level:
HOCKEY Congratulations to Emma Dauparas (Year 11), Heidi Martin (Year 11), Jenna Marquardt (Year 10), Jorja Power(Year 12), Naomi Martin (Year 11) and Pip Constable (Year 11) who all competed in the NSW U18 Girls’ State Hockey Championships representing Hockey New England. The girls played in Division 2 and placed 6th overall. Pip Constable (Year 11) and Jenna Marquardt (Year 10) played in the 16 years and under IGSA Sport Hockey team at the NSWCIS Championships in Term 2. Their team who came first after winning 3 out of 4 games and Pip was selected to represent CIS which is an amazing achievement.
ATHLETICS/CROSS COUNTRY Stephanie Blake (Year 7) and Kate Loxley (Year 6) competed in the CIS Cross Country Championships held in Sydney late Term 2. Both girls ran exceptionally well, with Stephanie qualifying to compete at the NSW PSSA/All Schools Cross Country Championships for the CIS Secondary team. Congratulations Steph!
SWIMMING CARNIVAL CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 SWIMMING CARNIVAL AGE CHAMPIONS 9 YEARS Evie DONALDSON 10 YEARS Lola FERGUSON 11 YEARS Kate LOXLEY 12 YEARS (JUNIOR SCHOOL) Meg EARLE 12 YEARS (SENIOR SCHOOL) Stephanie BLAKE 13 YEARS Caitlin GROBLER 14 YEARS JOINT WINNERS Scarlett LOXLEY & Poppy MCLAREN 15 YEARS Mackenzie ROBERTSON 16 YEARS Kaitlin MUNGALL 17 YEARS Heidi MARTIN 18+ YEARS Lilly MCCOOK
HAMLIN WAS THE WINNING GUILD OVERALL AND THE WAR CRIES WERE WON BY WILKIE
SWIMMING
Congratulations to Sienna Dellow (Year 10) for her outstanding performance in the recent NSW Junior Championships. Sienna showed resilience and drive to achieve a new personal best. She also qualified for the Under 17s 100m at the 2022 Australian National Championships. Sienna is the fastest, wind legal, electronically timed 100m on record ever by a female from the Armidale Athletics Club. Go Sienna!
RUGBY Mia Montgomery (Walgett) - who was selected in the Under 16 Girls Central North representative Rugby & NIAS Rugby Squads.
Congratulations to Stephanie Blake (Wacha), Poppy McLaren (Walcha) Caitlin Grobler (Tamworth) and Scarlett Loxley (Armidale) who competed at the IGSA Swimming Carnival in Term 1. (photo) Special congratulations to Steph who won the 50m freestyle B grade final in her age division. Congratulations to Meg Earle, Kate Loxley, Mila Vanzella,Illiana Carruthers, Sophia Marchant, Lola Ferguson, Evie & Lily Donaldson who participated in the IPSHA Swimming Carnival at SOPAC in Term 1. Special congratulations to Kate Loxley who placed 7th overall in the 11 years backstroke – just missing out on selection to compete at CIS. What an experience for these girls!
TENNIS The annual Tildesley Tennis Tournament was held in March and our team (Sophie Bailey and Flurina Dettwiler (Year 7), Daisy & Holly Sheedy and Sophie Young (Year 8) and Laurne Williams (Year 10) put every effort into their games. Our girls’ strength and resilience shone. A highlight was Sophie Bailey winning a tough game against a girl from Year 12 to progress to the third round. Everyone was so encouraging, cheering on their teammates and showing support in true PLC Armidale style. The team was also treated to dinner with tennis great, David Hall (OAM), who spoke of the feeling of winning as being a powerful motivation for his outstanding tennis career. Green Tartan - Semester 1 2021 / 13
OURMUSIC,CREATIVE+PERFORMING ARTS THE CHORAL SECTION of this year’s Armidale Eisteddfod opened with the choir events, which were non-competitive, however the girls received very promising feedback from the adjudicator and performed at a high standard. Congratulations to all 7 of our choirs on their fine performances - including the Staff & Community choir! Bravo to our newest vocal soloists parent, Ms Erica Smith and Maths Teacher, Miss Danika Blackburn! Thank you to Dr Inga Brasche for leading the choral program and conducting the choirs in the Eisteddfod.
WIND INSTRUMENTS RESULTS
CHAMBER MUSIC ENSEMBLES
A number of Year 7 and 8 students performed and received placings on the instruments which they started as part of the Wind Program at PLC Armidale. Students performing wind solos on new instruments included Holly Sheedy (oboe), Daisy Sheedy (flute), Emily Blake (flute), Stella Tuohey (flute), Stephanie Blake (clarinet), Chloe Younghusband (saxophone), Sophie Young, (trumpet), Poppy McLaren (tuba) and Teya Catterall (trumpet).
Congratulations to the PLC String Quartet for being awarded first place in the Year 7 to 12 Chamber Music section in a competitive section and congratulations to our Silver Strings who won the K-6 ensemble.
SPECIAL CONGRATULATIONS TO CHIYO BROWN (YEAR 10) who won the prestigious New England Championship award at the Armidale Eisteddfod in Term 2. This seduction of the Eisteddfod was open to any instrument including voice. Chiyo demonstrated her incredible talent by performing on both the violin and piano. To quote from the comments by the adjudicator “a very talented young lady with a tremendous flair for performance.”
Congratulations to students placing first: Woodwind Solo restricted (Year 7-12) Emily Blake Flute Solo Novice - Emily Blake Woodwind Solo restricted (18 years & under) - Ashlee Yu Flute Solo (15 years & under) - Tiko Lay Flute Solo (open) - Tiko Lay Brass Solo (novice) - Poppy McLaren Thank you to our instrumental teachers for helping the girls develop their skills and polish their performances: Li Ling Chen, Dave Brown, Paul Marshall and James McKay.
OUR TALENTED SPEECH + DRAMA GIRLS ALSO SHONE AT THE ARMIDALE EISTEDDFOD The highlights included Sarah Waters and Scarlett Loxley who were awarded the Speech and Drama Championship Awards in the Senior and Junior section respectively along with Bella Waters, Anviti Sinha and Alannah Williams who won the Hannas Perpetual Shield with the highest points awarded for the Eisteddfod. Congratulations girls.
COMPOSITION RESULTS Year 7 - 8 Teya Catterall - 3rd place Poppy McLaren - Highly Commended Stephanie Blake - Highly Commended Chloe Younghusband - Highly Commended Year 9 Mia Montgomery - 1st Place and Adjudicators award Year 10 Catie Alcorn - 1st Place Phoebe Imberger - Highly Commended Year 11 (Music 1) Karen Chan - 1st Place Ava Rose Hippisley - 2nd Place Year 11 (Music 2) Chiyo Brown - 1st Place Emma Dauparas - 2nd Place Year 12 (Music 1) Paige McKenzie - 2nd Place Year 12 (Music 2) Julia Wisniewski - Highly Commended Open Mr Minter - 1st Place
PLC PERFORMS was the opportunity for all our music, dance and drama students to practice their performances before the main event, the Armidale Eisteddfod. The evening was held in the Astra Arts Centre at PLC Armidale and it was a wonderful showcase of PLC Armidale talent.
ARMIDALE EISTEDDFOD 2021 WE ARE GRATEFUL THAT THE ANNUAL ARMIDALE EISTEDDFOD WAS ABLE TO BE CONDUCTED IN 2021, GIVEN IT WAS CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19 IN 2020. THIS WONDERFUL EVENT ENABLED OUR GIRLS, WHETHER MUSICIANS OR SPEECH,DRAMA OR DANCE ENTHUSIASTS, AN OPPORTUNITY TO PERFORM, AND PERFORM AND SHINE THEY DID, TO AN EXCEPTIONAL LEVEL.
www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au/news/latest-news/plc-eisteddfod
INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS Each of the following ensembles achieved first place in their sections: - Year 9/10 Music Class - Senior Strings - Junior Strings - Silver Strings - PLC String Quartet - PLC Cello Ensemble INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS Lauren Williams 1st - New England Vocal Age Championship (13-15 years), Vocal Solo Sacred (15 years & under), Vocal Solo Folk Song or Ballad (15 years & under), Vocal Lieder (15 years & under) 2nd - Vocal Solo (16 years & under), 3rd - Vocal Solo Jazz (16 years & under) Lola Ferguson 2nd - Piano solo (10 years & under) April Ferguson 2nd - Piano solo (7 years & under) Chiyo Brown 1st - Piano Solo (15 years & under), Piano Solo (16 years & under),
SUCCESS AT STATE SHAKESPEARE CARNIVAL Placing first at the Regional Shakespeare Carnival earlier in the semester, our terrific trio of dancers: Catie Alcorn, Phoebe Imberger and Annabel Kaberry won the State Shakespeare Carnival Final in Sydney, bringing home the illustrious crown in the dance category!
Violin or Viola Solo (AMEB Grade 7-8) 1st Place 2nd - Piano age championship (13-15 years), String Age championship (13-15 years) 3rd - Piano solo, French (open) Edith Clynch 2nd - Cello solo (10 years & under) Tiko Lay 1st - Flute Solo (15 years & under) 2nd - New England Championships (15 years and under) Poppy McLaren 1st - Recorder Solo (13 years) 2nd Recorder Solo (14 years) Harriet Minter 1st - Violin or Viola solo ( AMEB Grade 4 or equivalent standard), Violin or Viola solo, Baroque or Classical ( AMEB Grade 3-4 or equivalent standard), Violin or Viola solo, Romantic ( AMEB Grade 3-4 or equivalent standard), Duet on any bowed instruments (10 years & under), New England String Age Championship ( 10 years & under) 2nd - Violin or Viola Solo, 20th/21st Century ( AMEB Grade 4 or equivalent standard.
WATCH OUT FOR WICKED … IN TERM 4! 3-6 November 2021
IGSA CHORAL FESTIVAL Congratulations to Teya Catterall, Tiko Lay, Lauren Williams and Binudi Vithana who are the first PLC Armidale girls to be invited to attend the IGSA Choral Festival in Sydney after auditions were held at the College in Term 2. The festival will take place in Term 3 from 30 July - 1 August, and the girls will be working with Warren Trevelyan-Jones, Head of Music, St James Church and Master of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and will be singing major works by Vivaldi and Brahms. Unfortunately this event has been cancelled due to Covid-19.
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OURADVENTURERS
PUSHING THE LIMITS
MOUNTAINS WILL MOVE
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD PROGRAM At our Term 2 Commencement Service, Principal Nicola Taylor spoke to the girls in her presentation, reflecting on the life and contribution of the Duke of Edinburgh, HRH Prince Philip. An enduring legacy remains the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award which was founded in 1956 at the urging of the Prince’s former headmaster. From the outset, this award has been offered equally to girls as well as boys. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award provides a unique experience to acquire a range of skills in collaboration with others. With our high participation and completion rates in the scheme, PLC Armidale features as one of the top 100 providers in Australia. Each year over 1.3 million young people take part in the scheme in more than 130 countries and territories worldwide. “If you can get young people to succeed in any area of activity,” the Duke of Edinburgh
remarked, “that sensation of success will spread over into a lot of other areas also.” A man of advantage who used his life experiences to bring advantage to others. Over the past 15 years, the Duke of Ed award at PLC Armidale has grown enormously, from 6 students to an average of 70 each year, participating in and progressing through all 3 levels of the Award, Bronze, Silver and Gold. We asked our former Duke of Edinburgh Award coordinator, Mrs Anna Caldwell, about some of her most memorable moments from her years running Duke of Ed at PLC Armidale. “In 2012 a large group of girls and their mothers went to the School of St Judes, Arusha, Tanzania. We raised money through numerous fundraising events, including a Ball, to sponsor 10 girls at St Judes to climb Mt Meru with us. Mt Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania. We set off at midnight to make the summit at sunrise, rising over Kilimanjaro and the incredible national parks.
A documentary movie was made of our climb, called Mountains Will Move. Many girls have since sponsored students and staff at St Judes and also helped the girls who hiked with us to go to University. We have had many students receive their Gold Awards each year from the Governor of NSW, with the ceremony held at St Stephens Church, Macquarie Street, Sydney and a special morning or afternoon tea held at Government House. Charlotte Caldwell and Alison Chapman were presented with their Gold Awards from Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex in a special Award presentation ceremony, celebrating 60 years of the Award in Australia.” On hearing the sad news of the Duke’s passing, our 2021 Duke of Edinburgh Award participants, along with Principal Taylor and our new Duke of Ed coordinators, Mr Tom Gall and Mrs Kirsten Hey, gathered in our Rose Garden for a photo and to pay tribute to Prince Philip. His legacy will continue at PLC Armidale through our staff and students’ dedication to the Duke of Ed Award and we thank him for conceptualising such an inspirational program for young people to thrive in.
THE NEW ERA BEGINS With the departure of our intrepid Duke of Edinburgh Award Program Leader, Mrs Anna Caldwell after 14 years in the role, there were big shoes to fill. Step up, new PDHPE Teacher, Mr Tom Gall. Tom has accepted the challenge as Award Leader, and is being ably supported by Junior School Staff member, Mrs Kirsten Hey, who previously worked alongside Anna. During Term 2, the team prepared the newest group of Bronze program participants, upskilling them in the art of camping, cooking and coping with all manner of things! The group then put these skills to the test undertaking their first adventurous journey at South West Rocks in the winter holiday break.
GOLD, GOLD, GOLD! In Term 2, Eleanor Harrell (2019), Amelia Brissett (2012) and Sarah Miron (2019) received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards at a special ceremony in Sydney. Unfortunately due to COVID-19 restrictions, the presentation was unable to be held at the traditional location, Government House, instead the girls were presented their award by Her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor
of NSW, in the amphitheatre at Sydney Olympic Park. The girls are featured with their very proud Award Leader, Mrs Anna Caldwell. What an outstanding achievement! Congratulations PLC Armidale graduates.
HAWKESBURY CANOE CLASSIC … HERE WE COME! The challenge of paddling 111km through the night down the mighty Hawkesbury River in any weather conditions, has really excited our adventurous Year 11 girls (or maybe it’s the stories of paddles past). So much so, we have the largest group ever to take on the rigorous activity in training throughout term two in preparation for the big event, 30/31 October. We even need to purchase more canoes! It’s great to see the enthusiasm and energy from our new PDHPE Teacher, Mr Tom Gall for inspiring this challenge.
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OURPATHWAYS
OUR SINCEREST GRATITUDE TO EVERY STUDENT FOR OFFERING FRIENDSHIP...’ REFLECTING ON THE FIRST SEMESTER OF 2021, APPRECIATION IS THE THEME FOR THE PATHWAYS PROGRAM. Due to the border closures, none of the international students were able to go home. This is still the case. We have been really fortunate to have PLC Armidale families have been willing to host the girls throughout the Christmas holidays as well as the Winter break. Not only does the generous offer assists the College, it also helps the girls’ families enormously. The girls’ parents are extremely appreciative of how well looked after their daughters have been and the way in which they have been welcomed and cared for by the local families.
It has been evident that the international students remaining in Australia are embracing their learning opportunities and social interactions at PLC Armidale surprisingly well. While it has been difficult for them to be away from home, they have settled in their cohort smoothly, making friends, following lessons and mainstream curriculum, and enjoying being members of the boarding house. We are appreciative that the girls are developing maturity and independence that we have not needed to deal with
OURCOMMUNITY
difficult situations this semester. They now better understand the cultural expectations in Australia, and have engaged in activities more. The girls are showing resilience and social skills, and are working cooperatively with staff at school.
the PLC Armidale families that have offered to look after the girls during holidays; and to Mrs Eastment and Mrs Sennett for their great effort in providing quality education to overseas students.
Some great articles written by the students throughout this semester were published in the Lion’s Roar, which are worth reading to get to know their view on their experiences. These may be found on the PLC Armidale website.
Amy Chiu Pathways Administrator
ANNUAL GIVING Thank you for your generous support of our 2021 Annual Giving campaign, which will continue to make a difference to PLC Armidale now and in the future. Please feel free to contact the College should you wish to make enquiries about how you may assist the College: enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
There are also a few students in the Pathways program who have not been able to enter the country and have been participating remotely in the Segue Course with Mrs Rebecca Eastment and Mrs Janelle Sennett. Despite being online, we are blessed to have the technology, resources, and the trust and flexibility from the students’ families and staff. Online learning is tough, but our students have been enjoying the lessons and showing great improvements in their English language abilities. We greatly appreciate the opportunity to be able to help students achieve their goal under the current global situation, and also look forward to bringing them more live(-streamed) experiences with the mainstream courses in the second semester. The Pathways team would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to every student for offering friendships and including the girls; to teachers and staff at the College for their support and care for the international students on campus; to boarding staff for looking after the girls so well; to all of
Green Tartan - Semester 1 2021 / 19
OURALUMNI ANNUAL REUNION WEEKEND PROGRAM (SUBJECT TO COVID RESTRICTIONS)
NEW COMMITTEE FOR OLD GIRLS’ UNION At the Annual General Meeting of the PLC Armidale & Hilton Old Girls’ Union, a new Committee was elected for 2021. President; Kim Carruthers (nee Jackson) Secretary Kathie Marquardt (nee Ryan) Treasurer Robyn Jackson (nee Harper) Ordinary Committee Members include: June Mitchell Val Granf ield (nee Sinclair) Judy Lewis (nee Brett) Lana Hawksford (nee Jackson) Stephanie Belson (nee Doyle) Dorothy McRae
DATE TIME PROGRAM Friday 22 October 2pm INSPIRE - Year 2000 & 2001 Graduate volunteers to speak with current Year 9, 10 & 11 girls re. career and life experiences. Saturday 23 October 10am General OGU meeting, Commemorative Paver ceremony & Morning Tea 12noon - 4pm Social Tennis & Activities Light Lunch College Tours & Drinks Evening Reunion Dinners - organised by Year Group organisers Sunday 24 October 9.30am Church Service at St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Armidale 11am “Birida Group” Brunch at PLC Armidale
YEAR ORGANISERS REUNION GRADUATING ORGANISER YEAR YEAR
5 Year
2015
Georgia Seymour
2016
Stephanie Keeping stephaniekeeping@gmail.com
10 Year
2010
TBC
2011
Isabelle Dol
20 Year
2000
TBC
2001
Claire Taylor
(nee Coulton)
30 Year
TBC
1990
gseymou3@gmail.com
isabelledol@outlook.com
taylorclairemichelle@gmail.com
40Year 1980
Kathie Marquardt Lisa Sewell
kathie@marquardtconstructions.com.au ljsewell2@bigpond.com
Anne Markey
annemarkey23@gmail.com
Sally Renshaw
sallyerenshaw@gmail.com
GENERATIONAL LUNCH
50Year + 1970+
OGU President
ogu@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
It was lovely to see so many Old Girls at the Term 2 Generational Lunch held at the beautiful Peterson’s Winery.
Kim Carruthers (nee Jackson)
STAYCONNECTED Communication is important to us. We have a number of ways to enable our PLC Armidale Alumni community to stay connected with what’s happening at the College and with each other. Follow our social media pages for daily updates and networking opportunities! Please ensure your details are updated: Name (including maiden name) Graduating Year Email Mobile Phone Postal Address
Or go to website: www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au/community/stay-connected
SHAREYOURNEWS We would love to hear more news from our Old Girls: Achievements, Graduations, Weddings, Engagements, Babies, Funeral Notifications, Congratulations, special moments, anything. Any news that you wish shared may be included in this publication or on our social media pages. Please send to: enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
THE EXCHANGE BY HEALTHWISE PLC ARMIDALE OLD GIRLS ARE EVERYWHERE! Principal Nicola Taylor and Director of Development, Shona Eichorn attended a special networking event hosted by The Exchange at the Tattersalls Hotel in Armidale earlier in the Autumn holiday break. The Exchange is a brilliant initiative organised by Healthwise, always with engaging speakers, delicious food and inspiring company. It was terrific to bump into three PLC Armidale Old Girls, Kate Blackmore (nee Peterson, 1980), Louise Ingall (nee Berry, 1995) and Alison Treloar (nee Laing, 2000) as well as past parent Lou Conway (mother of Erin Wright, 2014). What a wonderful way to network with not only our local community, but our PLC Armidale community as well.
OUR OGU ACTIVITIES & DIARY DATES (COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS PERMITTING)
WHEREARE THEY NOW
Dinner Meeting - White Bull Hotel, Armidale- Tuesday 10 August @ 5.30pm
Chihiro Takei (2004) - is now an
Drinks at Sydney Olympic Park
(Hockey Centre, Waratah Room) - Friday 20 August from 5pm after watching our Hockey and Netball teams compete in the IGSA VI D TO CO competition. $35 pp - Bookings UE D D E L EL essential C A N C by July 30: www.trybooking.com/BRSEL Lunch Meeting at Uralla’s Top Pub Sunday 26 September from 12noon Annual Reunion Weekend - October 22-24 (see website for details) Special Social Afternoon Tea in an Old Girl, Sonia Broun’s (nee Waters) garden - Sunday 14 November 3-5pm
Elementary School Teacher in Japan. Madi Moar (2015 Head Prefect) -
Congratulations to Madi on receiving the UNSW University Medal award for Bachelor of Engineering (Material Science) (Honours)/Master of Biomedical Engineering. The University Medal is one of the most distinguished awards to be bestowed on an undergraduate student and recognises outstanding academic performance. From Dux in Year 6 to Dux in Year 12 and now the University Medal … take a bow Madi Moar!!
We realise that not all Old Girls will be able to attend all of these events, however, we would love to see as many attend as possible. Plans are already underway for additional events in 2022 in other locations. Watch this space! Kate Biddle (2019 Deputy Head Prefect)
Claire Taylor (nee Coulton - 2001 Head Prefect) - left PLC Armidale with ambitions to study law. Dropping out after only 7 weeks, Claire discovered a rewarding career as a secondary English Teacher, teaching in various schools in NSW and the UK. She then found her way into Politics, eventually working as a senior advisor for both State and Federal Government Ministers. Her career then turned to non-for-profit, where she was Head of External Relations for Royal Far West Children’s Charity. Now, she lives in Tamworth, NSW where she remotely runs and co-owns three start-ups: My Property Circles; Bricks for Chicks and VillageHub. She is a co-founder of VillageHub, which is dedicated to bringing local communities together, and better utilising high street spaces. She holds an MBA from the University of Sydney, where she was a UN Women’s Scholarship recipient; an MA (Political and International Studies) from the University of New England; and a B. Teach/BA (Hons) from the University of Newcastle. Claire lives on a hobby farm with her husband Dan and is Mum to Will, a busy almost-two year old, with a second child born in March 2021. Claire is lucky enough to live close to her sister Sally Barker (nee Coulton, 2003), a General Practitioner in Tamworth and mum to Charlotte (three) and Annabel (one).
Kate has taken the strength of character, independence, and work ethic she developed at PLC Armidale and made it part of her life, recently graduating from Biomedical Science at Queensland University with a distinction grade point average and receiving a post graduate scholarship to study for a Master of Pharmacy. Kate remains an all-rounder - excelling academically, actively involved in sport, hardworking and appreciated by employers and with a diverse friend base. Congratulations Kate!
Green Tartan - Semester 1 2021 / 21
OURALUMNI
ONCE A PLC ARMIDALE GIRL, ALWAYS A PLC ARMIDALE GIRL! ALUMNI SURVEY RESULTS Our sincere thanks to all Old Girls who took time out of their busy schedules to complete the recent Alumni Survey. Your feedback has been invaluable and will be used to shape future communications, activities and experiences for our alumni.
VALE
June Wangmann (Head Prefect in 1958) passed away in December 2020. (Margaret) Meg Nicol (nee McLennan,
1954 graduate) passed away in March 2021. Meg had been an active member of the PLC Armidale & Hilton Old Girls’ Union, holding the position of Secretary for many years. Jill Wheaton (nee Harris, 1948) passed away in April 2021. Rosemary Perrott-Russell (was a Boarder from 1949-1954) passed away in May 2021. Elizabeth Frewin (nee Curtis, 1947 graduate) passed away in April 2021. Margaret Coles (1954 graduate & Gregory House Captain) passed away in 2021. Dorothy Seaton (Past Staff Member) passed away in May 2021 in Tasmania. Renate Graser (Past Staff Member) passed away in 2020. Clare Terlier (nee Mitchell, 1936) passed away in July, 2000. Her story is featured here on the right.
CONGRATULATIONS One of PLC Armidales’ oldest living Old Girls, Barbara “Binks” Dowling (nee Turnbull, 1939 graduate) who lives in Dorrigo, recently celebrated her 98th Birthday. Congratulations “Binks”!
COMMEMORATIVE PAVERS Remember your years at PLC Armidale and have your name permanently etched in the beautifully landscaped gardens at the College. Pavers are just $200. For more information go to: https://www. plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au/community/ alumni/old-girls-union
100 YEAR OLD WORLD WAR 2 VETERAN RETURNS TO ARMIDALE FOR HER FINAL REST Sergeant Clare Bell Mitchell died in
Queensland in July 2020 aged 100. Because of Covid restrictions her family were unable to attend her funeral, nor could they come to Armidale to arrange Clare’s burial. Her stepdaughter Lesley sought the help of the RSL and, with advice from Piddington’s and the help of the Armidale Council, Clare has been interred in Armidale’s columbarium with a suitable AIF plaque. Clare Bell Mitchell was an Armidale lady who lived in Brown and Barney Streets before joining the Army as a nurse. Her parents were John Alexander and Alice Elizabeth, and she had a younger brother John William. Clare went to school at Hilton, leaving in 1936, a few years before it became the Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Armidale. Clare’s Army service began with the Australian Army Medical Women’s Service in 1942. In 1943 she was deployed to New Guinea with the Australian Imperial Force. Her final appointment was at Concord hospital in 1947. Clare’s brother John died in the hands of the Japanese in Borneo. His service is honoured on the WW2 list held in Armidale’s Memorial Library. In 1956, Clare married Lesley Terlier in Armidale and became step-mother to Lesley’s children. The Armidale RSL Sub-branch commemorated Clare Mitchell Terlier’s life with a graveside poppy service at the Columbarium on Monday 19 July, 2021. Military medals were worn.
Green Tartan - Semester 1 2021 / 23
TICKETS ON SALE SEPTEMBER
