In 1951 Jack Kerouac wrote "The fact was I had the vision... I think everyone has... what we lack is the method". Years have passed and times have changed, but his words remain as insightful as ever. It would seem that we all harbour secret dreams and crazy visions, but we falter when it comes to crossing the bridge between the everyday and the hazy world of future possibility.
In attending PLC, we are presented with an opportunity to learn the 'method' by which we might bring the 'vision' within our grasp. Education is essentially an interactive process and we attend, not to be taught but to learn. Whatever the subject, there exists a flexibility that allows students to learn in a way that is of lasting academic and personal relevance.
In this edition of Kookaburra, we hope to present a microcosm of the year 2008. Early in the year, we decided against a definitive theme for the magazine, though we were sorely tempted by hakuna matata, the motto chosen by the Year 12 Student Council. Instead, we strove for a general theme of simplicity, so the photographs and reports may speak for themselves.
Past editorials have taken a variety of approaches; from discussing the format of the magazine (2007) or the political events of the year (1999), to looking back and commemorating the history of the school (2005) or the successes of various football clubs (2003). However, common to all is an optimistic forward focus. Although our time at PLC may be drawing to a close, we will follow with great interest the impending re-construction and renovation of the Senior School and, later still, our 100th anniversary, yet faintly visible on the horizon.
Another happy tradition of editorials is to quote the great, the good, or the just plain famous. Having opened with the words of Jack Kerouac, we now leave you leave you with the words of David Bowie... "I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring".
My favourite lines in PLC's School song are those in the third verse: Teach us delight in simple things
While the PLC song is very reminiscent of the era in which it was written by Rudyard Kipling (18651936) when the pace of life was perhaps not as rapid and relentless as now, it serves as a reminder that despite the times and events of every generation, the greatest satisfaction and the most sustaining experiences can be found in 'the simple things of life'.
PLC's community life is built on 'simple things' such as friendship, laughter and learning, giving service, the Christian faith and active engagement in activities such as sport, music, dance and drama. Such activities can be found in all cultures, no matter how simple or complex, and as such have proved to be timeless sustenance for the human spirit.
This year has seen a blossoming of opportunities for PLC students to engage first-hand in giving service to others less advantaged than themselves. Our inaugural Co-ordinator for Community and Service Learning, Tracey Bahen, has been the catalyst for developing a diverse range of service and leadership opportunities. The feedback from students involved in service programmes such as the tour to Cambodia in support of the Tabitha Foundation; the service tour to Tanzania; volunteering at the KALACC Festival in the Kimberley; supporting a local women's refuge centre; collecting for Good Samaritan Industries and supporting senior citizens at Amana Living, is testament to the adage 'it is better to give than receive.' We all stand to learn from each other, and learn about ourselves, through such activities. Giving service is not a condescending act but a shared discovery of the depth and breadth of life.
One of the most powerful assemblies this year was a presentation by Adrian, who not only shared his life history of abuse and neglect, but also his salvation through compassion, friendship and involvement with The Big Issue organisation. This initiative, undertaken by our Service Captain,
Hannah Murray, undoubtedly made a difference to our attitude towards the vendors of The Big Issue magazine and our understanding of their philosophy to 'give a hand up not a hand out.'
Music, dance and drama are universal forms of human expression and in April the PLClTrinity Chorale had the privilege of being part of the International Music Festival held at the Beijing Conservatory of Music. Our students had every reason to be proud of their performance, and Silver Award, while also learning from masters how to build on their delivery and rehearsal process. Back at School the talent and performance of our students in the 2008 musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, impressed us all. It was a powerful and enthralling reminder of the story of Jesus, with its ancient and contemporary message about human frailties such as prejudice, greed and betrayal alongside redeeming features of love, compassion, loyalty, friendship and love.
Within any community, joy is invariably also balanced with sorrow and this year was no exception with a number of members of the PLC community experiencing the loss of loved ones. Included amongst these was Kate Reilly (Year 9) who lost her life in April while awaiting a heart transplant. Her courage, resilience and determination touched the lives of many and advanced awareness and action for organ donation legislation. The value of friendship and the support of a caring community are significant, but simple, qualities that make a difference in times of sorrow as well as happiness.
Reverend Elke was among a few staff, students, and hundreds of Aboriginal people who attended the Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Cultural Centre Festival (KALACC) at Mt Barnet in September. In her Links reflection, Reverend Elke commented that:
"Life seemed tough but simple up there in the heat. Get up early, move slowly, drink plenty, eat enough, talk little, find shade, rest.
Aboriginal people have known about the essentials of life since time immemorial- shelter from the elements, a community that supports time and space to be and to become.
The busy and complex city life, the rush for money and success, the obsession with material things and status was a thousand miles away."
Her words echo Rudyard Kipling's wise counsel "to teach us delight in simple things".
Upon entering the Senior School, the Class of 2008 was told that the word 'stressed' was banned and that punishment would be given to anyone who used this taboo word. Reflecting back, it is hardly surprising that we were given this instruction, because staff are well aware, as am I now, that PLC is a place where students could easily become stressed with so much to do and everyone just wanting to have a go at everything.
Two years down the track, these students have had their fair share of tests and assignments, School musicals and plays, music concerts, School tours, sports matches, rowing regattas, art exhibitions, competitions, and the list goes on. The Student Council of 2008 announced that our motto for the year would further encourage the idea of a stress-free, relaxed and enjoyable school life.
Hakuna matata is the motto of two lovable characters, Timon and Pumba from The Lion King. We felt this was an appropriate motto for a group of girls who grew up on Disney singalongs, with many of us remembering The Lion King as our first movie, and one Year 12 student even admitting to once breaking her arm pretending to be Mufasa, the King of Pride Rock. But aside from our mild obsession with animated film, the chosen motto was also incredibly suited to the fast-paced lifestyle of students at PLC
Roughly translated from Swahili hakuna matata means 'no worries'. In the Disney context it means not caring what others think. In the PLC context it means not letting the little things get to you, not letting things get out of proportion, doing a favour for someone if they ask, and generally looking on the bright side of life.
As a student council our greatest challenge was finding a date and time to hold events because the PLC calendar is so jam-packed all year long. PLC girls are superb at time management because they just have to be. From sports training starting early in the morning before the sun has even risen, to intensive dress and tech rehearsals on stage until way past bedtime, music gigs spanning hours on weekends and an array of tours to countries all around the world, the life of a PLC student is certainly neither dull nor slow.
The students of PLC are clever, kind, organised and funny and they never cease to amaze me with their passion and sheer determination to be
the absolute best they can in a huge variety of fields.
When we put restrictions on ourselves we cannot realise our potential. A polar bear once found twelve fish when he only had seven to find. Yet if he'd known this he would never have kept looking for fish. It's impossible to get an A if you're aiming to get a B. You won't get a high score in Tetris if you are just trying to make it to level twelve, and a dancer can never land a triple pirouette if content with a double. PLC girls are not told what to expect and, as a consequence, the results of a PLC student's actions always go far and beyond expectations.
This drive for unrestricted success is shown non-stop at PLC; in students working furiously to finish a test, concentrating hard on a difficult piece of music, or putting every bit of effort into the last stretch of a race. In the wider community this year, we saw IGSSA schools refuse to let Penrhos win the swimming again, refuse to believe they were invincible, and we saw lona take swimming victory in 2008, breaking the long winning streak of Penrhos - almost as good as winning it ourselves. We saw this same spirit shine through again in our Olympic heroes in Beijing - refusal to give in and determination to go just that little bit further.
There is not much difference between a PLC girl and an Olympian, only maybe the size of their muscles. Beneath the exterior, muscly or otherwise, they have the same competitive spirit and the same knowledge that whether we are successful in the end or not, it is the experience that will be remembered.
PLC is such an experience: a funny, busy, crazy experience and I have had the time of my life watching all of you girls experience 2008 at PLC Thanks for the smiles, the waves, the hugs, the chats, the laughter and the friendship that you have all given every day.
I wish all the best to Madeleine Watts, Head Prefect for 2009. I know you will do a fantastic job, you can't go wrong. Just remember: hakuna matata - no worries.
Following the Labor Party's win in the 2007 Federal Election, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd highlighted homelessness as one of the key issues for the government to tackle. "It's something which you can either push to one side and sweep under the carpet or you can say, 'Actually this is just dead wrong, we need to do something about it'. We don't believe it is something which a country as wealthy as ours in the 21st century can just ignore", Mr Rudd said. The PLC community embraced this issue wholeheartedly with a focus on homelessness in Western Australia, and particularly on The Big Issue, a magazine sold by the homeless or those experiencing long-term unemployment. The Big Issue motto is 'a hand up not a hand out' and it provides a way for homeless people to get back on their feet and create a more secure future.
To raise money, we held a number of events throughout the year. There were free-dress days, cake stalls galore, refreshment sales in the intervals of dance and drama productions and raffles, to name a few l
Not only did we aim to raise money for The Big Issue, but also to raise awareness about homelessness. It was important to break down the usual perceptions of the causes of homelessness and to show that drugs and alcohol are not the only causes. We were lucky enough to have Jim Petrie, the West Australian manager of The Big Issue to talk to us, and Adrian, a vendor in Perth, to share his story with us. Subsequently I was happy to see Adrian in the city one day and hear that lots of PLC girls had come up to him to buy a magazine or have a chat. This is a way that the girls can contribute to fighting homelessness long after they leave school.
We also looked at other forms of homelessness this year, such as women who find the courage to flee from domestic abuse and are faced with nowhere to go. The girls were encouraged to make care packages for the women in the Wyn Carr Refuge. The packages contained toiletries and other essential items for the women to use when they arrived at the refuge. Over
seventy comfort packs were created and we had a beautiful letter from one woman who had received a package and was very grateful for the kindness shown by the girls.
The PLC girls were also involved in intensive fundraising for trips to Cambodia with the Tabitha Foundation and Tanzania, where they helped to build houses and schools for the local people. I was extremely impressed by the tireless devotion and effort of the girls, teachers and parents involved, as well as the creativity involved in the fundraising process, and the efforts certainly paid off in the end.
Other events that PLC took part in this year were Bandanna Day, raising money for CanTeen, an organisation devoted to young people living with cancer; Pancake Day for Uniting Care West, where we raised over a thousand dollars; the World Vision 40 Hour Famine; collecting can ring pulls for Wheelchairs for Kids (this metal can be recycled into wheelchairs); and a Good Samaritan Industries donation drive when we raised over a tonne of goods to be sold in Good Sammy's stores around Perth.
We also had our service teams toiling away, with initiatives for saving our resources with double-sided printing and mobile phone recycling, as well as tree planting in Cottesloe from the Environmental Team. Our Amnesty International group kept Australia Post in business with mailouts on issues such as unfair imprisonment to women's rights and the Reconciliation Team organised some great events to coincide with Sorry Day.
There have been so many other events going on that I cannot possibly fit them all in this overview, but girls, you know what you have done and you should all feel incredibly proud of what you have achieved. A big thank you to everyone who donated their time and self-raising flour to help out with service this year, it has been a lot of fun along the way. Thank you to the Year 12s who have all been incredibly supportive and willing to help out. To Ms Bahen, PLC's Community and Service Learning Co-ordinator, who always has so many ideas and so much enthusiasm for every cause. And finally, to our Chaplain Reverend Elke, who has been with me every step of the way, danke I
Our very best wishes go to Kimberley Bryant, 2009 Service Captain.
It feels like just yesterday that I was surrounded by a group of young, excited, enthusiastic, passionate girls, who were all ready to embark on a invigorating journey of leadership, self-discovery and fun. The Student Council of '08 entered this journey wholeheartedly, determined to make the most of their opportunities. Each Student Council member brought something special and unique to the experience, which meant that we were never out of ideas or laughs.
The year's motto was found in hakuna matta, the rough translation of which is 'no worries'. This gave the School a good outlook on the year ahead, encouraging the girls to give everything a go and to embrace school life with a positive, down-to-earth attitude.
The events that shaped this year brought immense closeness within the Year group, teaching us how to operate as a team and indicating to all of us the importance of cooperation. The comical student assemblies and the amusing staff vs students competitions were events that not only brought entertainment, but also created moments that shape our experience of PLC. The less popular initiatives, such as Winter Wednesdays, may not have been so entertaining, but the ideas created awareness throughout the School, teaching the girls that we have to work together as a school to solve the problems we encounter; signifying that we can make a difference.
The leadership found throughout the School is not only embedded in the student council, but also in any girl who chooses to take pride in their opportunities, and makes the most out of their school life. I only have to wander around before and after school to see this enthusiasm and perseverance within the girls, as no morning or afternoon is short of dedicated, eager students willing to participate and to take on new challenges. These leaders will have realised that the most unforgettable school memories are not created within the classroom.
From the very first day of Year 12 it became obvious that this year was not only going to be about hard work and stress, but also about exciting and unforgettable experiences. Every Year 12 girl became a leader in her own right, willing to help out and to make the most out of their last year at school. The Leavers of 2008 have been a great team, and the memories that have been formed over the years will
be unforgettable. As my time as deputy head prefect comes to an end, I wish our new Deputy Head Prefect Ashleigh McCloskey the best of luck for next year. Immerse yourself in everything that Year 12 has to offer, and always remember that the more you put in, the more you get out.
Calypso Haggen - Deputy Head Prefect
"The World Is Flat" -Thomas
L Friedman
As a school community, we realised that due to globalisation our world is becoming increasingly integrated and our generation will require not only 10 (intelligence quotient) and EO (emotional intelligence), but also CO (cultural intelligence) in order to succeed. In emphasising the importance of being cross-cultural and having some fun, the international students ensured that the PLC school diary was filled with multicultural events that involved not only the international students, but also the entire student body of PLC. Amongst the lunchtime dim sum feasts, ISA meetings and social events with other schools, Harmony Day and the Diversity Party were some of the highlights of the year.
PLC's inaugural celebration of Harmony Day took place on the quadrangle under a strong March sun, with the help of the service team and student volunteers. Celebrated on the 21 March throughout Australia, Harmony Day is a day when the diversity of Australia's cultural identity is recognised and celebrated. The orange themed bake sale (including 500 orange glazed doughnuts) proved popular as we were entertained by the likes of Elouise Ehos (Year 11), Aarksara Foo (Year 12) and Kara Joshi (Year 11) to name a few. The celebration was a success, and the enthusiastic participation of the student body during the day was proof of PLC's harmonious appreciation of cultural diversity. Many would agree that the vision of all the Middle and Senior School girls performing a Greek dance on the quad is one to remember.
The 2008 Diversity Party was certainly a night to remember as it kicked off with no less than an international buffet and one kilogram of M&M's®. It was a night of friendly competition as girls from Years 7 to 12 put their thinking, performing and eating skills to the test in the quiz, dance-off and sushi eating competition. The performances that night were as enlightening as they were entertaining, and touching, as they reflected the magnificent array of cultures present within PLC.
To Principal Ms Blackwood, Head of Senior School Ms Flint, Registrar Ms Lukin, Year 12 Co-ordinator Ms Bynon, Chaplain Rev Elke Riekmann, the Student Council of 2008, my international girls, and Diversity Party performers: your support throughout the year made all of the events possible and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
It was an honour being overseas prefect with a great team. Congratulations and good luck to Liana Tay, we are all certain that you will do a fantastic job in 2009.
Umin - Overseas Representative
STAFF
Principal Ms B Blackwood BA, DipEd
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning (Students) Mr K Anderson BSc(Hons), GradDipSciEd, DipEd
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning (Staff) Mrs K Edwards BPE, DipEd, MEdMan, Science
Head of Junior School Ms JWilmot BEd, MEd, PTD, MACE
Head of Middle School Mrs SAnderson BEd, DipTeach, English
Head of Senior School Ms N Flint BSc, DipEd, Mathematics
Finance Manager Mr S Kronja BComm
Business Manager Mr R Niven
Director of Community Relations
Ms C Francis (Term 3 and 4)
Acting Director of Community Relations
Mrs V Lawrance (Term 1 and 2)
Co-Director of Boarding Mr M McTavish BBus, GradDipAcct, Accounting
Co-Director of Boarding Mrs L McTavish BA,BEd
Director of Information Services
Mr B Clarke DipTeach, BEd, GradDip (CompSci), CertlV (Training), MACCE
Head of Staff Mrs C Robinson DipDesign&Tech, Textiles
Human Resources Manager Mr J Craigie AIMM, CAHRI, DipHRM, DipBusMan, PDipHR, GradDipHRM (Term 1 and 2)
Human Resources Manager Ms T Phillips Grad Dip(HR Man), Dip Marketing, Dip Bus Man & HR (Term 3 and 4)
Chaplain Rev E Riekmann
Counsellor Senior School Mrs JWise DipOT, BPsych, MEd, GradDipMan (Term 1, 2 and 4)
Acting Counsellor Senior School
Mrs M Robinson BA(Hons), Dip Ed, BPsych (Term 3)
Counsellor Middle School Mrs H Rodoreda BA, DipCom, BPsych(Hons)
Counsellor Junior School Ms A Bahen BPsy, Dip Ed, (Term 1)
Counsellor Junior School Ms G Bucher (Term 2,3 and 4)
Registrar Ms R Lukin
Accountant Mrs W Castles B Com, ASCPA (Term 1, 2 and 4)
KEY LEARNING AREAS: CURRICULUM LEADERS
English Senior School Mr R Leach BA, DipEd, MPhil
English Middle School Mrs V Biggs
DipTeach, BEd, GradCert (SpecNeeds), MEd, MEd (Special Learning)
Mathematics Senior School Ms N Flint BSc, Mathematics
Mathematics Middle School Mrs K Timms BA, DipEd (Term 1 and 2)
Mathematics Middle School Mr K Kendell (Term 3 and 4)
Science Senior School Mr G Quinton DipEd, BSc(Hon Chem, Uni of Durham) (Term 1)
Acting Science Senior School Mr G Moran MEd(Science), GradCertVit, Science/ Chemistry (Term 2, 3 and 4)
Science Middle School Ms L Salfinger CertVetNurse, BSc, GradDipEd, Science
Humanities Senior School Ms A Philpot BA, DipEd
Languages Other than English Senior
Humanities Middle School Ms G Nair BA, BSocSc(Hons), DipEd, Humanities
School Ms J Weston BA, BEd
Languages Other than English Middle School Ms C Muller LicLLCE Ang (Sorbonne), LicFLE (Sorbonne Nouvelle), Diploma of Interpreting, LaTE
Languages Other than English Junior School Mrs N Lewis BA, DipLing (Term 1 and 4)
Head of Physical Education Ms C James BPE, DipEd
Head of Sport Ms FWilkinson BSc, DipEd (Term 1)
Head of Sport Mr L Callier, BE (Term 2, 3 and 4)
Head ofTechnology & Enterprise
Ms P D'Sylva
The Arts (Theatre) Ms FTholet GradDip Ed, BA
The Arts Music (Curriculum) Ms E Dragun
BEd, DipTeach
Director of Music Mr M Thomas BMus, DipEd
The Arts Visual Arts Ms S Chescoe BA(Art) Hon, Dip Ed
Philosophy and Religious Studies
Mrs P Jane BA, DipEd, LTCL, English (Term 1)
Director of Library Resources Mr G Green BEd
Learning Enrichment Centre Mrs EWalker BEd (SpecEd), BSoc Wk LEC
Learning Enrichment Centre Junior School
Ms D Kempe
Director of Outdoor Education Mr P Nidd BAppSc, DipEd
Director of Career Education
Ms J Hetherington BA (Hons), DipEd
Deputy Head Junior School Ms C Begbie
Director Athena Centre Mrs M Beer
DipTeach, BEd, Junior School
Physical Education Junior School
Co-ordinator Ms T Morrison
PYP Curriculum Co-ordinator Mrs M Beer
DipTeach, BEd, Junior School
Curriculum Services Co-ordinator
Ms T Jefferies BA(EdSec), Mathematics
Service Learning Co-ordinator Ms T Bahen
DipTeach, AssocDip Applied Science
YEAR CO-ORDINATORS PASTORAL
CARE
Year 12 Mrs L Bynon BA, DipEd, English
Year 11 Ms N Dorrington BPEd, DipEd, Physical Education (Term 1 and 2)
Mr D Yates BBus, Grad.Dip.Ed, Society and Environment (Term 3 and 4)
Year 10 Mrs J Brandenburg BSc, GradDipEd, Science
Year 9 Ms K Keighery BEd, Drama / Dance
Year 8 Ms SKelley BSc, GradDipEd, Science
Year 7 Mr G Green BEd, Library
HOUSE ADVISERS
Baird Mr M Donaldson BPE, BSc(Hons), GradDipEd, Physical Education
Carmichael Ms S Robey BA, DipEd, English
Ferguson Mr M Saunders BA, DipTeach, English (Term 2, 3 and 4)
Mr G Jones, BA, Year 10 Mathematics Coordinator (Term 1)
McNeil Mr M Hinchley BEd, Technology and Enterprise (Term 1 and 2)
Mr G Jones, BA, Year 10 Mathematics Coordinator (Term 3 and 4)
Stewart Mrs M Litton AssocArtTeach, BEd, Visual Arts
Summers Ms N Lange BEd, English
ACADEMIC STAFF
Ms C Adams Junior School
Ms M Anderson English
Ms T Anderson BSc (Hons), Science
Mrs S Bailey BA, GradDipEd, Junior School, Year 3-6 Co-ordinator
Ms J Basterfield Dip.Teach, BA, Special Needs/LEC
Ms S Berger BA, DipEd, LaTE
Mrs J Boyne BEd, DipTeach, Physical Education
Ms D Caddy BPE, GradDipECE, Junior School
Ms J Carroll Junior School
Ms B Cazzulino BA GradDipEd, Media and Computing Studies Co-ordinator
Ms D Chacon Navarro DipPrEd, BEd, Junior School
Ms K Charles-Twight BEd Dance/Physical Education, Indigenous Liaison Officer
Ms R Chern MA, BA, English
Mrs T Chick BSc, Dip.Ed, Mathematics
Ms A Coughlan BEd, Music (Term 1,3 and 4)
Mrs K Cresswell BA, Junior School
Ms M Daemi BA(Hons) English Literature, PGCE, English
Ms A Dawson Science
Ms J Dawson BEd, Junior School
Mrs S Falkner BA(Hons), GradDipEd(LOTE), English
Ms N Fitzpatrick GradDip Ed, BA (Asian Studies), Special Needs and Japanese
Mrs J Frame TC, DipHomeEc, Technology and Enterprise
Ms A Franetovich BA, GradDipEd, Junior School (Term 1 and 2)
Mrs C Gadsdon BA, Dip Ed, Humanities
Mrs C Garland Junior School Art, DipEd Art Education
Ms T Ghossein BA (Languages), GradDipEd, LOTE
Ms S Grossmann Junior School
Ms J Hammond BA (Hons), Physical Education Junior School
Mr S Hales, Technology and Enterprise (Term 3 and 4)
Ms L Hewitt, DipEd, BEd, MEd, Junior School
Ms P Higgins BE, DipEd, MEdStud, Mathematics
Ms G Hodges MA(Hons), PGCE, Science (Term 1)
Ms M Honeychurch BSc, Dip.Ed, Mathematics
Ms M Hooper BEd(ECE), Junior School
Ms M Hulme BFA, GradDipEd, Art (Term 1,2 and 3)
Mrs K Jones GradDipEd, Music
Mrs V Manson Grad.Dip.Ed, Mathematics
Mr D Maclaurin BA, Dip Ed, Religion and Philosophy (Term 2)
Ms D McPhee BPE, Dip Ed, Mathematics
Mrs A Miller Music
Ms C Miragliotta BAppSci, DipEd, Library, Technology and Enterprise
Mr G Moran MEd(Science), GradCertVit, Science/Chemistry
Mr K Neale BEd, DipEd, Humanities
Mr P O'Brien, BEd, Junior School
Ms P O'Hara BA, DipEd, Humanities
Ms Jake BEd(ECE), Junior School
Ms M Pepper, BA(Hons), GradDipEd, Dance
Ms A Partington MA, BSc (Hons), Music
Ms K Picker BEd(ECS), Junior School Learning Enrichment Centre
Ms L Renton Junior School
Ms J Rickwood BA(Ed), Junior School (Term 2,3 and 4)
Mr I Robbie BMusic Ed, BMusic Classical AssocDip, Performing Arts, JS Music Specialist
Ms A Saffen BSc, GradDipEd, Mathematics
Mr C Scholten Humanities
Mr M Slade Science
Mrs A Smith BA, GradDipEd, Philosophy and Religious Studies (Term 1,3 and 4)
Ms B Spencer DipTeach, Junior School Learning Enrichment Centre
Ms A Stark, BA, MEd, LaTE
Ms K Sue BA, CSDM, GradDipEd, LOTE,
Mr K Sullivan BA, GradDipEd, MEd, Junior School
Ms M Tai Learning Enrichment Centre
Ms C Tsalikis BEd, Physical Education
Mrs RWallace DipTeach, BEd, Junior School
Ms M Warburton BA, BEd, Society and Environment
Ms RWatts BA, GradDipSpecEd, Media
Ms C Weir, BA, Junior School
Mr GWilliams Mathematics
Ms K Williams Mathematics
Mrs M Williamson Music
Dr BWinning PhD, BSc (Hons) Science SUPPORT STAFF
Mrs JAstle AssDipSc(LibTech), Library
Ms S Barbir Tours
Ms D Barnaby Administration Junior School
Mrs B Bishop NNEB, After School Care
Ms L Bird Administration Junior School
Mr T Bly ArtTechnician
Ms A Carlino Science Laboratory Technician
Ms S Corr Assistant to the Business Manager
Ms K Coulter Administration
Ms E Derrington Administration
Ms T Dick Administration Assistant
Ms M Draper Junior School Education Assistant
Ms M Forster PLC School Shop
Mrs S Foster Administration
Mrs M Giglia Library Junior School
Ms K Hancock Education Assistant
Ms J Hard Administration Music Department
Mrs C Hendry Education Assistant
Ms B Henri Accounts Receivable (Term 3 and 4)
Mr G Hermans Maintenance
Mrs EHislop Fundraising Co-ordinator
Mr CHolloway Property Manager, Dip
Builders Registration
Mr D Hounslow Theatre ManageriTechnician
Ms FHowl Lab Technician
Mr W Hutton Head Rowing Coach
Ms F Kelly Education Assistant
Ms SKirby Academic Secretary
Ms D Lee Assistant to the Principal
Mr W Lillis Maintenance
Ms SLovelady Archivist
Mrs EMasterson Functions and Canteen Co-ordinator
Mrs L Matthews Library
Ms RMcCarthy Senior School Education Assistant
Mrs A McDonald Administration
Ms FMcKeever Administration
Mr DMcLeod Maintenance
Mr N Moncrieff Media
Ms C McWattie Education Assistant
Ms F Meehan Education Assistant
Mrs V Myers Home Economics Assistant (Term 2, 3 and 4)
Mrs M Olden Administration
Ms Sandra Otranto Accounts
Ms D Partigliani Accounts Receivable Officer (Term 1 and 2)
Ms SPember Community Relations
Co-ordinator (Term 2 and 3)
Mrs L Pinto Payroll/Accounts Payable Officer
Ms J Rankin BA (UWA), MA (Cornell), THe.
LSDA, Communications and Education
Adviser (Term 1,2 and 4)
Mrs G Ridley Education Assistant
Mrs H Riley Education Assistant
Ms S Robinson DipPR, Community Relations Co-ordinator (Term 1)
Ms C Rothery, BA Arts, Community Relations Co-ordinator (Term 4)
Ms B Rutter Outdoor Education Specialist
Mr RSala Tenna Maintenance Co-ordinator
Mrs P Savage Alumni Relations Co-ordinator
Mrs T Scott Administration Middle School
Mrs M Seubert Assistant to the Registrar
Ms L Smith Administration Physical Education
Mrs W Stower Canteen Junior School
Mrs KTaylor Executive Assistant to Council
Ms LTaylor Administration Senior School
Ms DWells PLC School Shop
Mrs M Yeong (Tay) Library ICT
Ms S Blundell Help Desk Support and Administration Support Officer
Mr P Cummins BSc Computer Science (Hons), Software Lead Programmer, Developer Support
Mr S Flora Bachelor of Laws (Belgrade), Technology Officer, Hardware Repair and Logistics
Mr J Heglund Technology Officer, Systems Administration and Infrastructure
Mr G Jagoe BSc, DipEd, CertMarketing, ICT Operations Manager
Mr M Stephens BPE, DipEd, GradDip Computer Studies, CertlV (Workplace Assessment and Training), ICT Training Manager
BOARDING HOUSE
Ms G Adams Supervisor
Ms C George Assistant
Ms K Gilbert Assistant
Ms J Keys Supervisor
Ms K Nugent Supervisor
Ms L Nugent Team Manager
Ms J Orrock Team Manager
Ms K Phillips Supervisor
Mrs S Robey Supervising Director
Ms J Rose Administration Boarding House (Term 4)
Ms L Smith Supervisor
Ms CWilliams Administration Boarding House (Term 1,2 and 3)
HEALTH CENTRE
Mrs J Moullin BAppSc(Nursingl. RN School Nurse
Ms A Wright (Term 3 and 4)
Ms B Young BEd, B(Nursing), DipTeach, RN School Nurse (Term 1)
Ms J Hazelhurst (Term 1 and 2)
VISITING INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC STAFF
Mr A Arbuckle PLC/Scotch Chamber Orchestra
Ms Z Arnold Dip, AMusA, Piano
Ms J Blanchard BArts, Oboe
Ms J Brown BMus(Perf),GradDipEd, Bassoon
Mr K Byfield BMus, Drums/Percussion
Ms S Dean BMusPerf (Hons), Violin
Ms N Dixon BMus, GradDipEd, HorniTrumpet
Ms J Durant BA, Dip Ed, Voice
Ms Y Gygli-Howell DipMusPerf, Lower Brass
Mr A Hawksworth BMus (Hons), AMusA, Trumpet
Mr M Howell BMus (Hons), Flute
Mr L Hynes BMusEd, DipMusT. AMUSA
Ms A Johnston PLClScotch Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Ms D McManus B Mus(Perf), GradDipEd(Secondary), Clarinet
Mrs E Morse AMusA, Suzuki Awed, Piano
Ms M Reale DipMusEd, DipMusicTeaching, Piano
Mrs C Reitzenstein Double Bass
Mr M Shanahan BMus, Guitar
Mr D Thorne BMus (Hons), Saxophone
Excursions have an important role in education and many staff from the
Middle alld Sellior Schools give their girls hands-oil experiellce ...
Learning is Everywhere
When asked by a ferry passenger to explain why a group of PLC Year12 students were off to Rottnest Island, the girls responded" Physics is everywhere". This reply epitomised the wide-ranging education that is available at PLC. At other times this year the answer might have been "Music is everywhere" as our girls engaged in band camps and performances. English, mathematics, art, media, history and French were also everywhere as our girls moved out of the classroom to engage with the community with authentic learning activities. Excursions have an important role in education and many staff from the Middle and Senior Schools give their girls hands-on experience whilst others bring guest speakers into the classroom, including chefs and pastry chefs who worked with the girls and passed on many 'tricks of the trade'.
Venturing out brings unexpected highlights: two of our girls who were working in a cafe as part of their hospitality course had to serve the bodyguards of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who were sitting at the next table; Years 11 and 12 students studying psychology completed a deafness awareness project with deaf children; and Year 10 media girls worked with both elderly people and primary school aged children.
Travelling further away, our girls added to their knowledge with national and international tours to Canberra, Melbourne, Europe, South Africa, Cambodia, and China. Many of these tours included components of service learning and involvement with the local communities. Not to be outdone by the Canberra tour, the Year 9 girls who remained in Perth participated in a highly successful week of activities (mirroring those in Canberra) with boys from Scotch College. iPod®s in class!
iPods in class? Students being encouraged to use them? New ways of learning? What is the world coming to? While some schools are trying to ban iPods in class, several of our classes have been given iPod touches and asked to explore how they can help learning. Teachers initiated the fun (trial) and then the girls took over: flip chartseasy; pronunciation - easy; ultra mobile access to the web - easy; listening to podcast - of course; improvement in learning - absolutely. Will the iPod take over the laptop? Probably not, as they have a different use and focus, but
they may become an accepted part of education at PLC. Time will tell. Technology also continued to be utilised with the move of laptops into Year 12 and the introduction of the new computer algebra system (CAS) calculators into Year 10. The CAS calculators add new capabilities and make some mathematics more accessible to the girls. However, there is still an emphasis on understanding the mathematics rather than just knowing which buttons to push. Web 2.0 tools have been used by many classes to enhance learning and increase collaboration with students from other schools. Several of our Middle School Japanese language classes were part of a project exploring wikis in learning (a type of collaborative website where readers are contributors or the software used to create such a website; from the Hawaiian wiki wiki meaning quickly).
Success
Success in competitions came to girls in all Years and in a range of disciplines. Their hard work, creativity and knowledge obviously impressed the judges as they collected awards including the Cottesloe - Peppermint Grove - Mosman Park Library 2008 Literature Prize, West Australian Young Writers Competition, Tim Winton Award for Young Writers, Geoscience Australia Geologi science film awards, National History Challenge, Sir Charles Court Young Leaders Program, Alliance Francaise examinations, Annual Media Production and Analysis Awards, as well as many Distinctions and High Distinctions in mathematics, science and English in national competitions. Cadetships with leading accounting firms were awarded during the year to three Year 12 girls, giving them support with fees and expenses while at university.
Within the School, 11 academic honours pockets and numerous academic subject pockets were awarded to Year 12 girls who achieved the high pre-set standards. Girls in Years 7 to 11 also received prizes for academic excellence.
MYP Personal project
The Year 10 girls all successfully completed their International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme personal projects and displayed them at the July exhibition held in the Middle School. Hundreds of parents, friends, teachers, and community members viewed the exhibition over the five days. The projects ranged from building
an iron farm gate, through making clothes, to producing high quality 'photo books' on a range of topics; several of these books were bought by staff and visitors and re-prints had to be ordered. All the girls had been involved in researching and completing the actual project then writing a 2-3000-word report on the whole process, and it was this report that formed the basis of their grade. Each of the girls had a member of staff as a supervisor to partner and support them on these successful projects.
Codetships /Vith leuding accoluI"iflg.!inlls were awarded during the year to three Yeo,. /2 girls.
Within the School, 11 academic honours pockets and numerous academic subject pockets were awarded to Year 12 girls .•.
iPods in class? Students being encouraged to use them? New wa)'s oj learning? What is the world comin.g to?
Japanese language classes were pari oj'o project exploring LVI}U:S ill learlling.
Technology also conlin lied 10 be lIlilised Kill. the move oj lnplop., inlo leor 12.
Success in competitions came 10 girls ill. all Years und ill (L ronge oj disciplines.
The Year 10 girls all successfully completed their International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme personal projects.
When with a student on her first day at PLC recently, I asked one of our Year 5s whether she thought the new girl would enjoy it here I have forgotten her exact response, but will never forget the broad smile that spread quickly, lighting up her face It is hard to say what it is but there is something special about the culture of PLC that has been built up and passed on over its ninetythree year history. 'The way we do things here' is different and gives PLC its look and feel.
School cultures are fascinating and the subject of many studies. School cultures consist of "the beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that characterize (sic) a school in terms of: how people treat and feel about each other; the extent to wh ich people feel included and appreciated; and the rituals and traditions reflecting collaboration and collegiality" (Phillips, G (1993). The school-classroom culture audit. Vancouver, BC: Educserv, British Columbia SchoolTrustees Publishing: pl).
I feel a sense of spirit among the children who show a genuine warmth and enthusiasm and I know that there is a respect for the traditions and expectations that have been built up. Each moment of 2008 has added to this ongoing process of shaping and reshaping the culture of PLC. This edition of Kookaburra is able to capture a mere but enough to flood our minds with memories, some that will fade and others that will remain strong throughout our lives.
When I think of all that has contributed to 2008 the list appears endless yet the culture of service is one area where there has been a significant impact with the formation of three Year 6 service committees: service to the people of the world, to the environment and to preserving animal life. Service, whether to the School, local community, the nation or international community is at the heart of International Baccalaureate whose triennial theme is 'Sharing our Humanity'. Every student has had a role to play. The overwhelming feeling is that the girls have developed their understanding of service from thinking in terms of who can raise the most money to considering how they can make a difference, and understanding that the biggest changes do not necessarily come from the biggest financial donations. They also appreciate that the rewards for their efforts are personal and do not come in some form of a prize.
Service action of this nature has
not been confined to the Year 6 girls. Students have demonstrated their ability to reflect on and apply their learning to choose appropriate courses of action and carry them out. These actions by the younger children contribute greatly to the development of a culture of service. The Year 4 girls designing and making their own pencil cases for the children of Umoja Primary School in Tanzania during their inquiry 'I Can Make a Difference' is just one example of this.
Students in the Junior School have made significant contributions to the Tabitha Foundation, Animal Aid Abroad, the Umoja Primary School in Tanzania, Parish Pantry, the residents of local nursing homes, the homeless of Perth, to each other, to PLC and to conservation efforts.
It is a great sense of achievement to many that Tracey Bahen, Community and Service Learning Co-ordinator led a team of Year 10 students and parents to build houses for the Tabitha Foundation in Cambodia, a charity that Victoria Biggs, Head of Middle School English and Meredith Beer, PTP Coordinator started with their Year 4 classes seven years ago and was then adopted by the whole Junior School and just grew and grew. This year we joined the Australia Tanzania Young Ambassadors programme and formed a partnership with Umoja Primary School in Dar es Salaam to connect children to children and teachers to teachers. Whilst the teacher resources (books, chairs, tables, computers and blackboards) that we have sent will help to give their children a start in life, it is the building of relationships between our students that will lead to better international understanding.
So much has happened and it is good to know that we are making a difference!
Janet Wilmat - Head of Junlol School
Pre-Kindergarten
BACK ROW: Mrs Kelly, Mrs Hewitt, Ms Faden
THIRD ROW: Thomas Michael, Matthew Bailey, Yasmin Vijayasekaran, Sophya Thomas, Juliette Jarrett, Annabelle Barrie, Oliver Hird
SECOND ROW: Tiggy Pollard, Anoushka Paganin, Noah John, Tom Stokes, Anna Kathrina Ostergaard, Hana Yusoff
FRONT ROW: Max Begley, Nicholas Rossel, Thomas Ostergaard, Angus Bisset, Codi Cook
Kindergarten C
BACK ROW: Miss Meehan, Mrs Chacon
THIRD ROW: Eloise Middlemas, Alexander Kennedy, Jack Reynolds, Kai Wylie, Montague Mcgrath, Lachlan Busby, Monet Van Straalen, Emily Nixon
SECOND ROW: Eve Cullity, Eva Jackson, Samantha Cooke, Felicity Ostergaard, Lily MacLiver, Dimity Andrews, Emily Rundus
FRONT ROW: Jyles Coad-Ward , Thomas Andrews, Molly Kiernan, Katherine Mahony, Milan Narula, Alexander Draper
Kindergarten W
BACK ROW: Mrs McWattie, Mrs Wallace
THIRD ROW: Yasmine Cheir, Zavier McGillivray, Angus Sheldrick, Charlotte Fairweather, Raffael Torre, Archibald Burt, Isobel Weir
SECOND ROW: Lola Hanna, Ariana Papandroulakis, Flora Malcolmson, Elizabeth Playford, Elizabeth Marsh, Ginger Fogarty
FRONT ROW: Rory Von Altenstadt, Cameron Leggett, Nicolas Le Page, Oliver Bailey, Matthew Shephard
ABSENT: Mrs Riley, Mrs Caddy
Pre-Primary H
BACK ROW: Mrs Kellie Lynch, Mrs Megan Hooper, Miss Miranda Pogulis
THIRD ROW: Georgia Hyde, Elizabeth Crawford, Lachlan Simpson, Gil Palmer, Carla Ryan, Luisa Fletcher-Falco
SECOND ROW: Elise Sklenka, Harper Shephard, Richard Burt, Iman Marinko, Charlotte Wellmann
FRONT ROW: Oliver Rogala, Lachlan Naumann, Luca Paganin, James Crawford, Oscar Hird
Pre-Primary 0
BACK ROW: Miss Marita Draper, Miss Julie-Anne Oke, Miss Stacy Sullivan
THIRD ROW: Olivia Bisset, Alexander Stevenson, Hugo Welborn, Dylan O'Neill, Luke Oloughlin, Laura Bailey
SECOND ROW: Annabella Liddelow, Sarah Guilfoyle, Talola John, Giorgia Chin, Georgia Stokes, Jasmine White, Jaspa Kathiravelu
FRONT ROW: Lachlan Watters, Sophie Lim, Orson Ambrose, Anya Henharen, Grayson Downes, Juliette Hansen-Knarhoi
Year 1
MIDDLE
FRONT
Th way we do hmgs h re dl r nt and gives pelts look and fe I
Year 2
Tlris edilion of Aookabllrra is able 10 coplure a mere SOLLfJ(On but enough to flood OLLr minds w;th mem.ories, sOllie that will fade and ol,lrers 11r"1 will remain slrong IlrmuglrolLl oLLrlives,
Year 3
Year 4G
BACK ROW: Miss Sophie Grossman, Marli van Breda, Brooke Gagiero, Tabitha Malet, Phoebe Metcalf, Georgia Stewart, Gabrielle Morris, Alexandra Mary, Tasmin Mdadden
MIDDLE ROW: Annika Wilson, Madison Pillinger, Catherine Calder, Jade Sadler, Emily Ezekiel, Paegan Erwin, Isabella Of Loughlin, Eve Constantine, Isabel Black
FRONT ROW: Grace Chapman, DiArcy Munn, Isobel Cole, Louisa Dry, Anabella DfAlessio, Eva Annand, Elizabeth Mews, Sophia Hansen-Knarhoi
Year 4R
BACK ROW: Lauren Timms, Shilo Read, Isabella Steffen, Isabelle Archer, Lia Marinko, Harriet Martin, Lauren Butler, Sophie Rodda
MIDDLE ROW: Matilda Birchmore, Katherine Descant, Grace Fewster, Anneka Swan, Ms Libby Renton, Emmanuelle Lee, Nicola Armstrong, Grace Hendry, Nicole Battley
FRONT ROW: Naomi Brough, Sarah Holmsen, Isabella De Marte, Lauren Donsworth, Julianne Dutton, Alice Reilly, Zosia Tindale, Myra Shah
Year 5C
BACK ROW: Amelia Greenway, Harriet Haining, Eloise Purdy, Kate Campbell, lara Miller, Hannah Cheir
MIDDLE ROW: Ruby Watkins, Grace Hounslow, Olivia Tate, Mrs Kerri Cresswell, Zoe Bailey, Lily Garbutt-Wilkins, Ailsa Edwards
FRONT ROW: Olivia Shannon, Brooke Maat, Naomi Robinson, Sophie van der Steen, Hayley Siciliano, Freya Boyle, Indiana Marusco
Year 5F
BACK ROW: Phoebe Donaldson, Mia Evans, Katarina Welborn, Emma Weston, Maggie Joyner, Alanah Maclaurin
MIDDLE ROW: Cassidy Quantrill, Kirsty Ness, Ellen Dowley, Emma Stark, Miss Aleasha Franetovich, Charlotte Boston, Cara Teusner-Gartland, Hadley lindsay, Morgan Bowen
FRONT ROW: Eliza Rakich, Georgia Ford, Alice Ford, Sarah Ghossein, Noa Gubbay, Talitha Golding, Cailin Harvey
Year 5W
BACK ROW: Ebony Rizzo, Claire Breidahl, Sophie Reilly, Jaimi Quinlivan, Siena Zamin, Shannon Schulz
MIDDLE ROW: Aryaan Horne, Mia Hughie-Williams, Hannah Garland, Mia Del Popolo, Mrs Cate Weir, Chaya Ahern, Isabella leunig, Casey Kerr, Grace Sloan
FRONT ROW: Amber Macleod, Nicole Jenkins, Catriona Reynolds, Georgina Ride, India Bailey, Alanna Curtis, Olivia De Jonge
This year we join d th Au traha Tanzania Young Ambassador prag amme and omda partn rshlp with U 0la P mary ho I In Dar Sal a
Year 68
BACK ROW: Annique Cockerill, Sabrina Dickinson, lucy Stewart, Annarose Reilly, Sannah Maclean, Alexandra Picton-Warlow, Katherine Sparrow, Catherine Tweedie
MIDDLE ROW: Sophie Edlin, Pamela Diamond, Anneke Rose, Elizabeth Trahar, Mrs Soni Bailey, Serena Green, Miranda Franklin, Ella Newton, Manisha Malcolm
FRONT ROW: Martha Cornwell, Olivia Hasel, Paige Harvey, Aimee Balfe, Serena louie, Holly Phillips, Ruby Gherbaz, Nina Wise, Nina Willoughby
ABSENT: Ellen Frodsham
Year 6C
BACK ROW: Imogen Innes, Gabriella Poga, Georgia Symons, Madeleine Southall, Annelise Willis, Keely Atchison, leah Crabb, Alexandria Hynes
MIDDLE ROW: Emily Cooke, Grace Harris, Stephanie leibovitch, Sarah Fitzgerald, Miss Jessica Carroll, Nicola Russell, Alice Seymour, Annabel Watts, Amy Kirkness
FRONT ROW: Mimi Robson, Emily Farquhar, Chloe Moore, Emilie Ong, Anya Robinson, Rachel Gardner, Darcey Pollard, Sophie Henderson, Abigail Wackett
So /1IlIch has happened alld it is good to k"ow tlrot u:e are making (I difference!
Early this year in Tasmania, I had the good fortune to attend a pastoral care conference entitled 'Love, Life and Leadership'. I attended sessions by several highly regarded presenters working in the field of education and pastoral care. The key message of the conference was that we have to love and look after ourselves if we are to function effectively in the many facets of our lives - at home, with friends and at work. It struck a chord with me, probably because all that we do in the Middle School centres on this very concept.
If girls are content and feel valued, this allows them to travel through their
adolescent years loving themselves, so that they may love each other and ultimately live the PLC ideal and lead purposeful lives in the future. As one of the world's leaders in the field of mind/ body medicine Deepak Chopra MD has said, "there is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in". During this year in the Middle School there have been many such moments.
Love
Social events such as the Year 9/ Hale rollerblading, the 'Fluro' social for Year 9s, and The Great Escape for Years 7 to 9 provided the opportunity for the
girls to love what they were doing and to develop and cement friendships. I am always warmed by the squeals of delight at the beginning of each term when girls return from their holidays and feast their eyes on their friends! The interactive nature of Middle School allows the girls to meet new friends and work together on topics and problems in order to foster respect, acceptance and love for themselves and others.
life
An appreciation of the concept of poverty stemmed from dressing up and living a day in the life of a charader from the novels they are studying
Year 8
I am always warmed by the squeals of delight at the beginning of each ter", when girls return from their holidays and feast their eyes on their friends!
for English. Girls made a donation to a school community in Western Australia's northern wheatbelt, which has been suffering from the effects of drought for a number of years. As part of a mathematics project undertaken by Year 9s, a3 metre square marked on the carpet represented the size of the standard dwelling in Cambodia. These real experiences allowed the girls to appreciate and understand, to some degree, the 'knocks' that life can bring and better understand the plight of others.
In the year of the Beijing Olympics it would be easy to be carried away with
the euphoria of winning and forget that there are many who 'lose' but whose participation allows a winner to emerge! In the Middle School participation is a key. Being part of the dance showcase, the Year 7 arts showcases each semester, and part of a group on camps at Sorrento, Icy Creek, Canto's and in Canberra, enriches the lives of the girls. These wonderful experiences enable them to develop an appreciation of life as part of a group.
leadership
The Middle School forum undertook a transformation during 2008. Whilst maintaining the general
structure in terms of the number of House representatives the girls, who are elected to represent their peers and take on a leadership role, nominated to be part of subcommittees that mirror the International Baccalaureate's areas of interaction.
The girls formed focus groups in the areas of health and social, community and service, human ingenuity, and the environment. With the overall focus on life and leadership many initiatives were implemented. As simple as it may seem, turning off the lights was a focus of the environment group to increase environmental responsibility
within the School
The Tamoshanter Times, a project undertaken by an enthusiastic group of girls to produce the very first PLC Middle School 'newspaper', was launched in Term 2, with sale proceeds going to the Heart Foundation, and who can forget the wonderful haze of purple throughout the school in Term 2 on Kate Stall Day.
This was a project initiated by a group of friends in honour of PLC student Kate Reilly, who passed away in Term 2. As purple was Kate's favourite colour, all things purple were on sale, and the girls wore purple adornments in their hair. Their purpose was to raise awareness of
Ifgirls (Ire COlllellt alldfeel valued, this allolVs them to travel through their adolescellt years loving themselves, so IhCII the)' may lot'e each other alld IIltimately live the PLe ideal alld lead purposeful lives ill the flttltre.
organ donation and funds for the Royal Perth Hospital heart transplant team. Throughout the year I have been heartened by the care and compassion the girls in all Year groups have shown as others have experienced joy, loss and sadness in their lives. As Dr Maya Angelou, hailed as a great voice of contemporary literature said, "people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel".
This is the overvvhelming message of this year in the Middle School- through love, life and leadership we will long hold the feeling of warmth that comes
In 2008 we saw positive changes for the girls in the Senior School. With a new timetable, the girls had five onehour classes a day instead of the six of previous years. This slowed down the day and allowed extra time for classes in the practical areas. The girls have also enjoyed having breaks between classes, allowing time for trips to the locker and chatting to teachers at the end of lessons.
The Year 12s have enjoyed the added privilege of being allowed to come to school later if they had no class in period one, as well as being allowed to leave early for similar reasons at the
end of the day. This year has also been the first that Year 12s have had their own common room, which they have used for chatting, sleeping, studying and light relaxation.
The 2008 Student Council chose the motto hakuna matata for the School this year; roughly translated from Swahili this means 'no worries'. Whilst Year 12 is an exciting year it also has its share of stressful times, so the motto was most fitting.
The Year 11 s have enjoyed six school tours, including the French tour and exchanges to Reunion Island and France, the hockey tour to South Africa,
The Year 11 drama curriculum production and dance showcase saw the involvement of many of the Year 11 performing arts group.
the Chorale tour to China and community service tours to the Kimberley and South Africa. They have also enjoyed the Year 11 Dance, sports, the arts and community service aspects of school life. The Year 11 drama curriculum production and dance showcase saw the involvement of many of the Year 11 performing arts group. This year also saw the beginning of new courses of study such as dance, textiles and PE studies, all of which the girls have found fun and challenging.
The Year las have had a busy year learning to cope with their new workload in the Senior School, completing personal projects for the
Middle Years Programme, attending Year 10 camps, organising their Year 10 Social, which had the theme 'PLC this year, as well as sitting their first set of exams. Throughout the year, the Year 10s have raised a considerable amount of money for many causes such as the Cambodia tour, when the girls assisted in building houses for villagers.
The School Musical Jesus Christ Superstar saw many girls from the Senior School participating. The show was wonderful and the girls were given a standing ovation.
Overall there was definitely an air of genuine community service within
the Senior School. Girls are taking up all sorts of causes and reaching out to help their local community as well as the global community. I can say with confidence that the girls leaving PLC will live up to the School's statement of purpose, which is "Presbyterian Ladies' College is a Uniting Church school committed to educational excellence that gives girls confidence to lead purposeful lives and make an active contribution towards the common good".
Don't ever stop trying to make the world a better place, girls. There is no doubt in my mind that you are making a
difference towards the common good.
This year has also beell the first that Year 12s have Iwd their OW" COll1mOIl rOOl1l, which 'hey have lIsedfor C"ClI/Lng, sleeping, studyillg (lIId light relaxatioll.
Overall there was definitely an air of genuine community service within the Senior School.
Tire 2008 Studellt Coullcil clrose tire mollo ha/"lIlJa Illalala for tire Sclrool tlris year; rouglrly trallslater/ji-om Swalrili tlris meClliS 'no worries'.
The year started with our annual Closed Weekend, which welcomes new girl into the Boarding House.
From weddings to funerals for hermit crabs the Boarding House is a 'home away from home' for 120 girls who come from around the country and around the world.
We came back from the summer holidays with huge smiles. Seeing your friends for the first time after seven weeks is like a romantic movie. You look at each other, drop your bags and run to each other in slow motion. Your arms latch and suddenly you are on the floor due to the high impact hug (all we need is the theme from Chariots of Fire playing in the background).
The year started with our annual Closed Weekend, which welcomes new girls into the Boarding House. There was tenpin bowling, rock climbing, iceskating, speed boating and paintballing, with Year 12s coming out with impressive bruises a week before the ball. In fact I still have a scar from when Meg decided to shoot me from 3 cm instead of the absolute minimum 3 m; she was sent off. We ended the weekend with a picnic lunch.
Through the years, the Boarding House has built an army of footy players. We unite to make the Boarders Footy Team, which now includes daygirls. There were sprained ankles, pulled muscles, asthma attacks and some amazing tackles. The crowds were amazed with our talent. Our captain Billie MacTaggart led us to one game away from the grand final, which was a proud effort.
The Year 8s, 9s and 10s are the most hyperactive girls I know. There isn't a day when these girls are not dressing up in hideous gowns or a moment when their faces are not carrying a smile. Thank you to all of them for constantly putting a smile on our faces. Year 11 s of 2008, I wish you good luck with your studies next year and we all promise to sign you out when you need to escape from all the stress. Thank you Mr and Mrs McTavish, Ms Robey and Mr Eddy, who made Karaoke nights possible, along with Olympic tournaments and walks to the beach, and to all the other staff who on numerous occasions take the girls to sporting events or for Sunday night Red Rooster. I also pass on my appreciation to the cooks who have worked hard all year to present us with culinary delights. To the Year 12s as a group; I am so proud of you all and I hope you have a great time over the next year because you all truly deserve it.
Congratulations to Scarlett Duncan who has been elected as Senior Boarder for 2009. I know you will do a great
job and I wish you all the best. To all the boarders - please don't forget the times when the mistress caught you at 1.00 am singing on your table top using a deodorant can as a microphone I It will be these memories in future years that will be constant reminders of the fun and friendships you formed in your Boarding House years.
TheJeedbackJrom sllldellls involved in service progrnmmes such as Ihe tour to Cambodia ill wpport of the Tabitha Foulldatioll; tlte service tOLLr to 7'o,lI.zon.ia; volunteerillg at Ihe KA LACC Festival ill the Kimberley
Music, dance and drama are universal forms of human expression and in April the PLC/Trinity Chorale had the privilege of being part of the International Music Festival held at the Beijing Conservatory of Music.
tes/cunent to the adage 'it is better to give than receive.
Overall, 2008 was overflowing with passion and enthusiasm.
The arts area at PLC is known to be the centre of PLC life. It is where people are able to discover their talents and shine. It covers areas such as dance, drama, public speaking, debating, music and, of course, the most memorable event of the year, Arts Day.
Throughout 2008 each music ensemble performed sensationally well at many concerts and festivals, such as the PLC Proms Concert held at the Quarry Amphitheatre and the PLC Spring Concert held at the Dickinson Centre. Both concerts were a success as the girls gave their all, displaying an astounding array of talents.
The Chorale had yet another eventful year, travelling to one of the booming economies in the world, China, during the April holidays. All of the girls who took part said they will never forget the experiences they had and the friendships they made on this amazing tour to China.
Yet again, the PLC Pipe Band has represented PLC at many events, including Anzac Day and the IGSSA Athletics Carnival. The pipers piped and the drummers drummed, never failing to make us proud whilst keeping the PLC tradition soaring high throughout Western Australia.
Many thanks to all of the music captains who led the various music ensembles throughout the year; Alison McLean (Year 12), Concert Band 1 captain; Emily Palmer (Year 12), Concert Band 1 vice-captain; Georgia Mackay (Year 12), PLClScotch Symphonic Wind Ensemble captain; Jennifer Chan (Year 12), Bartok Orchestra captain; Daisy de la Hunty (Year 12), PLC/Scotch Chamber Orchestra captain; Stephanie Baker (Year 12), Stage Band captain; Rachel Chandler (Year 12), Chorale captain; Georgia Donaldson (Year 12), drum major; Morwenna MacLean (Year 12), pipe major. Without the leadership and enthusiasm of each one of you, the music ensembles would not have been so successful and unforgettable. Also, many thanks to Mr Thomas, Director of Music, for being the backbone of all of the music ensembles at PLC!
This year the Theatre Arts Department has had another wonderful year of productions, including the fantastic Year 12 Curriculum Production Antigone, the Year 12 Original Solo Production Evenings, the Year 11 Curriculum Production Duck Variations and of course the magnificent musical Jesus Christ Superstar, which left the audience humming along to the tunes.
Each performance of Jesus Christ Superstar was a wonderful success. The talents and enthusiasm of all involved were impressive; every dancer, singer, actor and member of the technical crew worked together to produce first-class performances that were breathtakingly entertaining. Thank you to Ms Tholet, Mr Thomas, Mr Hounslow, Ms CharlesTwight, Ms Keighery and Ms Pepper for all your tremendous effort and work. This musical was truly outstanding. Thank you to our drama captain McKenzie Goldsmith (Year 12) and dance captain Lydia Bacopanos (Year 12) for leading Theatre Arts to a year full of successful productions!
Outstanding showcases were produced this year, including the Year 9 dance students performing at the ACHPER Dance Festival held at the Octagon Theatre, the Senior School Choreographic Night and, of course, the showcased dance entitled 'Unbound'. The dancers proved once again that they are the most coordinated girls around.
Public speaking was a huge success this year, as girls from Years 7 to 12 were involved in the Inter-House public speaking competition with topics ranging from 'Laughter is the best medicine' to 'Manners matter'. All of the girls spoke exceptionally well, inspiring other students to stand up and speak out! This year Cordelia Coleman (Year 12) took part in the Lions Youth of the Year Quest and was the winner of the public speaking state final -a sensational result. PLC girls are confident and passionate public speakers, so watch out Australia, our next Prime Minister may be an ex-PLC girl! Thank you to our public speaking captain Margot McGeoch (Year 12) for your leadership and organisation.
This year our debaters were involved in the Western Australian Debating League (WADL) and the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA). The PLC girls proved to be first-class debaters, with our Year 10 team reaching the WADL finals. For the first time ever this year we had a staff vs student debate, with the staff team comprising Ms Higgins (maths teacher), Mr Lewis (PE teacher) and Mr Yates (economics teacher), and the student team comprising Year 12 students Emily Palmer, Hannah Murray and Imogen Forbes-Macphail. The topic was 'School should be voluntary', with the staff team taking the affirmative. Many thanks to Imogen Forbes-Macphail our debating
captain, for organising and leading our debaters to success this year!
In the visual arts department, works by PLC's emerging artists were displayed at the exhibition 'Collective'. Highlights included 'crazy' teapots, self portraits and a wearable art parade.
Finally, tothe most anticipated event of the year, Arts Day. After many late night and early morning rehearsals, Arts Day finally arrived and it was amazing, as everyone gave it their best shot. The day was filled with decorated cakes, dances, innovative fashion, amazing photography and, of course, the House Choir competition, which ranged from Baird singing Happy Ending by Mika to Ferguson singing Bring It All Back by 5 Club 7. The talent displayed on that day was extraordinary and inspirational. It is that buzzing of excitement, effort and passion for the arts that makes Arts Day the best day ever l A huge thank you to Ms Coughlan, all the House captains and House arts coordinators for your organisation, dedication, support and enthusiasm - Arts Day would not have been as successful without your help - and of course an enormous thank you to all of the girls involved on the day! You are all amazing, talented girls I Overall, 2008 was overflowing with passion and enthusiasm. I want to thank every girl for their participation and high spirits. All the best to our brand new arts captain Elouise Eftos. I know you will keep the arts spirit at PLC soaring high. Always remember to go that extra mile, get out there and shine for everyone to see I
The Chorale had yet another eventful year, travelling to one of the booming economies in the world, China, during the April holidays.
Out,standing showcases were produced this year, including the Year 9 dance slLLdellts perJorming at the ACf-lPER Dance Festival held at the OCUlgon Theatre, the Senior School Choreographic Night and, oj course, the showcased dance entitled 'Unbound'.
Birdseed I looked up far up
to where my brother was smiling his 'brace face' grin
he had tackled the tree with its ancient ladder with no safety net to the top where the bird nests lie
I step towards the trunk, children back away
I put my foot on a metal rung the braces' smile beckons
thankfully - no annoyingly, I am stopped by the old man in the black coat
his eyes see through my mask of confidence
he holds out a gnarled hand in his hand lies birdseed on his shoulders are the birds eyes - beads of black fire watch him watching me tiny feathers rolled in paint palettes
I reach out my white hand to grab the seed and his hand so soft pours it into mine
he smiles a eight toothed smile and the air becomes feathers
when I open my eyes the birdseed is gone
mirror we slip through unheard and unseen like water we move live and breathe in and out back and forth
inside our makeshift monster silent Scylla we burn
oh-weburn l too fast, too hard like ? hell
outside this world people go on oblivious don't notice much but they miss out i think so they will never row
Colour
lam yellow
I'm sunlight spilt from heaven's table
I'm egg yolk, honey, buttercup
I have seeped through sand that lines the beach
And claimed it for my own
I am orange
I'm mango sorbet in a cone
I'm pumpkin, coral, tangerine
I have snared the setting twilight sky
And claimed it for my own
I am red
I'm Ferrari coasting through the streets
I'm lipstick, cherry, sunburnt skin
I have stamped myself on exposed bodies
And claimed them for my own
I am pink
I'm a strawberry shake at Beaches cafe
I'm Barbie, tulip, flamingo
I painted feathers of grey galahs
And claimed them for my own
I am purple
I'm a child's bicycle on busy streets
I'm grape, sweet pea, royalty
I have pervaded Ribena at IGA
And claimed it for my own
I am blue
I am ice blocks in a glass of water
I am ocean, blueberry, sapphire stone
I have enveloped the midnight sky
And claimed it for my own
I am green
I am the tennis club in spring
I am frogs, apple, fresh lime juice
I have coiled around the Norfolk pines
And claimed them for my own
Isabella Borschaff IYeo, 10J
, , " , ,
Thank you to everyone who participated on the sporting fields this year, and a huge thanks to the physical education staff and coaches
Passion, devotion and perseverance were the key components that drove PLC to success once again in 2008.
The year kicked off with the InterSchool swimming team undertaking several intense training sessions with the Scotch boys, motivating us to swim to their potential. Our hard work and determination eventually paid off, leading the girls into a well-deserved third place.
As the swimmers were becoming unbeatable, the volleyball teams were hard at practising their setting, digging and spiking. Their Wednesday and Thursday afternoon games showed the competing IGSSA schools that PLC really had their hand in this year. Congratulations to all of the volleyball teams for 2008.
More hard training sessions to assemble the perfect serves and smashes were imperative to topping off yet another significant agenda item on the Term 1 calendar. The tennis squad this year took on the IGSSA schools with a strong goal that eventually paid off, leading PLC into a well deserved third place.
Term 2 dawned a new beginning on the netball courts, hockey fields and cross-country tracks. The nineteen netball teams gave it their all, and wound up third. Hearty congratulations go out to the Senior A and Year 7/8 G teams, who were undefeated and brought home the pennant for PLC.
The hockey squad achieved an outstanding result this year and cunningly brought home the IGSSA champion school award again, by a slim one point.
Closing Term 2 on the tracks was the cross-country team once again braving the cold mornings and the hills of Peppermint Grove. The team put in an outstanding effort on the IGSSA cross-country carnival day, doing PLC proud.
Perseverance was the key to the long, hard, rowing season this year. The squad put in an exceptional effort throughout the four regattas, which eventually culminated in the final races on Head of the River day. The squad was supported by the PLC Pipe Band, cheerleading squad, staff, friends and family, all of whom were crowded along the banks of the Canning River to see the team into a well-earned fourth place.
Continuing on in Term 3 was the sport introduced to the IGSSA calendar last year - soccer. The five teams trained
hard for their Wednesday and Thursday afternoon games, bringing home strong results for PLC.
Also coming round again in Term 3 were the athletics and basketball seasons. With the great attendance, passion for the sport and determination to produce a good result, PLC proved to the competing IGSSA schools that we have got what it takes to challenge and push our opponents. All of those hard morning trainings really paid off as the results showed, so well done to the girls from the 2008 basketball and athletics squads.
Finishing the year with the warmer weather brought the water polo girls back into the pool. The strength in the pool and skill was demonstrated widely throughout the PLC teams, with all putting in a quality performance throughout the IGSSA season.
Softball kick-started Term 4 and at the same time closed off the sporting agenda for another year. The helmets, bats, balls and plates provided more competition for the schools, with PLC once again displaying their exquisite talent.
Thank you to everyone who participated on the sporting fields this year, and a huge thanks to the physical education staff and coaches. Their support and encouragement throughout the year made my role as PLC sports captain such an enjoyable and positive position to be in.
Congratulations to the 2009 sports captain Olivia Gamble. I have every belief that you will proudly lead the School with enthusiasm and integrity, to more well-earned victories and challenges.
Finishing the year with the warmer weather brought the water polo girls back into the pool.
Tire tellllis squad tlris year took 011 the IGSSA schools witlr a strollg goal tlrat evelltllally paid oJf; leadillg PLe ;lItO a /Veil deserved third place.
, .
Closing Term 2 on the tracks was the cross-country team once again braving the cold mornings and the hills of Peppermint Grove.
Softball kick-started Term.J. and at the sallie lillie closed of/lire sporting agendaJor another year.
Continuing on in Term 3 lOllS the sport introdlLced to the IGSSA
last year - soccer.
7
Baird
BACK ROW: Amaani Alikhan, Alexandra O'Brien, Anna McGuckin, Miranda Quenby, Madeleine Lofthouse
MIDDLE ROW: Mrs Pauline O'Hara, Kendall Foulds, Annabelle Segler, Nidal Fradd, Maisie Stein, Rachel Andrew
FRONT ROW: Holly Schwelm, Tyla Cranswick, Olivia Grivas, Isabel McElhinney, Tara McCully
7 Carmichael
BACK ROW: Anna Ogilby, Isabelle Masters, Samantha Brenz-Verca, Jenna Verryn, Emily Byrne
MIDDLE ROW: Ms Sasha Berger, Sophia Glauert, Maya Malkani, Kate Mannolini, Caitlin O'Shea
FRONT ROW: Elise Wilson, Jessie Siciliano, Rami Mulvihill, Anne-Marie Karageorge, Mihika Hegde
7 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Mabel Gill-Hille, Annabella Packer, Sophie Clyne, Siobhan Deacon, Deborah Fisher
MIDDLE ROW: Miss Maylin Tai, Ashley Dunne, Holly Boston, Gabrielle Clixby, Olivia Jurat, Anna Clixby
FRONT ROW: Zoe Maxwell, Rosemary Bradley, Pia Hofman, Annie Bowman, Tess Parker, Alexandra Strzelecki
7 McNeil
BACK ROW: Ariann Washbourne, Eliza Burton, Emily Hains, Anna Henderson, Phoebe Ranford
MIDDLE ROW: Mrs Victoria Biggs, Rebecca Cole, Isobel Martin, Genevieve McCloskey, Grace Jones, Daisy Douglas
FRONT ROW: Felicity Eustance, Madeleine King, Tyko Kirsner, Sabina Fischer, Ashley Cullen
7 Stewart
BACK ROW: Hanneka Gerritsen, Eliza Carre, Robyn Stuart, Claudia Nathan, Anita Ibbitson
MIDDLE ROW: Ms Melinda Honeychurch, Emma Krantz, Isobel Szklarz, Talia Clohessy, Gabrielle Hitchen
FRONT ROW: Jana Harvey, Brittany Rose, Nicola Carter, Imogen Ridout, Sarah Sloan, Isabelle Raiter
ABSENT: Rebecca Kaard
7 Summers
BACK ROW: Miriam Hedges, Alexis Quinlivan, Georgia Mulholland, Sophie Foulkes, Kimberley Shepherd
MIDDLE ROW: Mr Chris Scholten, Anneliese Donaldson, Jessica Murray, Alisha Maclean, Georgia Woodward, Alexandra Malone
FRONT ROW: Siobhan Johnston, Genevieve Stirling, Allegra Di Francesco, Jasmine Macleod, Emily Jonklaas
8 Baird
BACK ROW: lee Bevan-Woodley, Dylann Cranswick, Madeleine lutze, Andie Sones, Madeleine Edwards
THIRD ROW: Kirsten van der Walt, Georgia Clarke, Jorja Gammage, Lily Annand, Bethan Millar, Sarah Clairs
SECOND ROW: Mme Cecilia Muller, Ms Geetha Nair, Saacha Maloney, Grace Wilson, Rose Wilson, Isabelle Roden, Georgia Kavanagh
FRONT ROW: India Pollard, Chloe Muskett, Victoire McKelvie, Amelia McDermott, lara Thompson, Natasha Hughie-Williams, Amelia Dymond
8 Carmichael
BACK ROW: Tess Inglis, Olivia Seymour, Kate Franklyn, Gabrielle Flynn, Hannah Bougher, Ellen Kennedy
THIRD ROW: Madeline Smith-Gander, Scout Yeeda, Juliette Goldfinch, Isabella Macliver, Jenna Cook, Madeleine Swan, Georgie Siciliano
SECOND ROW: Elizabeth Ride, Eloise Taylor, Katherine Baronie Shaw, Elise Karageorge, Freha Potter, Alexia Botha, Breanne Mills, Hannah Dunkley
FRONT ROW: Kate Wambeek, Jessica Russell, Ms Mandanna Daemi, Ms Rebecca Watts, Elinor Scott, Nikola Chung
8 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Megan Gammie, laura Hull, Minnie Burrell, Emily Abernethy, lakshmi Jones, Rebecca Duke
THIRD ROW: Rachael Read, Tess Harken, Sophie Taylor, Alexandra Bailey, Jessica Harvey, Alexandra Eftos, Anna Bradley
SECOND ROW: Ms Sarah Chescoe, Rachael Farquhar, Cody Gribble, Giselle Benson, Olivia Pisano, Greta Mack, Emily Mackay
FRONT ROW: Amelia Jeffries, Grace Macleod, Grace Blackman, Emily Reudavey, Tayla Symons, Victoria Somers
ABSENT: Mr Sean Hales, Ms Victoria Manson
8 McNeil
BACK ROW: Rebecca Hepburn-Brown, Jessamy Burton, Britt Liebeck, Ella Green, Sophie Allen-Fisher, Emilie Stockwell
THIRD ROW: Caitlin White, Remy Trusler, Georgina Moran, Laura Peake, Emily Gardner, Annabelle Gower, Imogen Thomson
SECOND ROW: Sophie Mills, Kate McElhinney, Sa ski a Oma, Amarah Ingrilli, Kylie Yu, Rebecca Crompton, Laura Spackman
FRONT ROW: Olivia Swan, Eleanor Norman, Mrs Philippa D'Sylva, Mrs Jane Frame, Lara Borshoff, Marissa Loh
8 Stewart
BACK ROW: Alana Martin, Brittany Pethick, Kate Pestell, Elizabeth Kuiper, Georgia Langoulant, Annabelle Evans, Indya Blake
THIRD ROW: Claudia Haberland, Emma Bennett, Prue Dempster, Ariane Moir, Amy Stewart, Morgan Wolpers, Annie Cormack, Rosannah Edwards
SECOND ROW: Miss Angelina Dawson, Ms Carla Miragliotta, Kirsty Jenkins, India Munn, Madeleine Farr, Yolanda Skeen, Jessica Stone
FRONT ROW: Arielle Tay, Sarah Campion, Georgia Rankin, Phoebe Robson, Grace Moloney, Aisling Sloan, Shaina Nargoodah
8 Summers
BACK ROW: Jasmine Colebrook, Sophie Cullen, Eily Schulz, Carter Wight, Candice Stevens
THIRD ROW: Daisy Atkins, Ruth Byun, Ruby Van Beem, Madeleine Pervan, Desne Smalberger, Isabella Blakiston
SECOND ROW: Ms Margot Warburton, Toby Joske, Emily Salih, Emily Mantle, Georgina Ellis, Shannon Chamberlain
FRONT ROW: Maddison Loxley, Georgia Ramm, Ella Nield, Brittany Sparrowhawk, Molly Anderson, Lauren Grey
9 Baird
BACK ROW: Claudia Berson, Dielle Horne, Kaili Bradshaw, Clare Woulfe, Rebecca Bentley, Alice Dormer
THIRD ROW: Caitlin Bombara, Chloe Corser, Alyssa Baker, Christina Robson, Eleanor Lofthouse, Elizabeth Alderson, Izabella Jandera
SECOND ROW: Miss Christina Davini, Ms Patricia Higgins, Kate Reilly, Amelia Quenby, Hanane Ortega, Jessica Armstrong, Megan Bilney
FRONT ROW: Ellen D'Cruz, Kira Cranswick, Siobhan Mews, Alice Watt, Grace Turner, Georgia Rakich, Alexandra Thomas
ABSENT: Rachel Godden
9 Carmichael
BACK ROW: Erin Aberle-Leeming, Alexandra Masters, Abbey Donaldson, Rachael Webster, Anna Gould, Lucy Farnsworth
THIRD ROW: Kerrin Walker, Kim Wilson, Amy Devine, Stephanie Thornberry, Alice Garbutt-Wilkins, Hannah Goldfinch, Abigail Pearson
SECOND ROW: Ms Lana Salfinger, Ms Niamh Fitzpatrick, Hillary Goldsmith, Lucy Clifton, Emily Simpson, Isabel Kordic, Kimberley Warrand
FRONT ROW: Dinu Kumarasinghe, Brigitte Brice, Laura Hejleh, Simone Ellies, Grace Westlake, Jessica Cockerill, Rebecca Leaversuch
9 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Olive Gill-Hille, Charlie Gribble, Emily Miller, Lauren Kerr, Madeleine Duffield, Helena Bean
THIRD ROW: Lauren Benson, Rachel Barclay, Ruby Burrell, Caroline Smirk, Sarah Huffer, Annabelle Porter, Samantha Martin
SECOND ROW: Miss Fiona Wilkinson, Emma Garlett, Alexandra O'Halloran, Claudia Henderson, Bethany Johns, Tara Fenwick-Smith, Amberlie Boyd
FIRST ROW: Sophie Clapin, Devon Lovelady, Pia Chaffey, Molly Ball, Isobel Hamilton, Isabella Ie Roux, Beatrice Harris
9 McNeil
BACK ROW: Ciara Mitchell, Jennifer Chappelle, Mary Earl-Spurr, Alexandra Barrass, Jacqueline Yu, Samantha McClurg
THIRD ROW: Hannah Newnes, Linda Teirney, Rosie Bahen-Wright, Alexandria Maclean, Laura Hunter, Erin Pope, Courtney Certoma
SECOND ROW: Ms Anna Stark, Ms Kumiko Sue, Charlotte Boyle, Anna Swan, Eve Callander, Melany Chapman, Amy Banks, Terra Tormey
FRONT ROW: Hannah Meier, Annabel Cowcher, Stephanie King, Susan Murrey, Camilla Eustance, Megan Wee, Emily James
9 Stewart
BACK ROW: Indiana Read, Samantha Palmer, Natasha Gay, Jessica Pleydell-Bouverie, Isabelle Crohan
THIRD ROW: Annie Bradley, Claudia Del Borrello, Hannah Richardson, Chelsea Brumby, Kelly Gorter, Jasmine Powell
SECOND ROW: Dr Brenda Winning, Susan Young, Emily Warton, Marli McGuckin, Mia Carlton, Rosie Barton
FRONT ROW: Caitlin Foulner, Sophie Forrester, Emma Heggaton, Alex Stroud, Tayla Willis, Sarah van der Post, Felicia Freind
ABSENT: Sarah Ransom, Ms Debbie McPhee
9 Summers
BACK ROW: Ellen Marinko, Lilian Hedges, Catriona Dunham, Alexandra Turner, Anthea Maclean, Natasha Graham
THIRD ROW: Melanie-Jane Cattell, Aimee Ford, Grace Moir, Chloe Frith,
Lily Robinson, Sarah Coulter-Nile, Felicity Tan
SECOND ROW: Ms Tamsin Anderson, Mrs Ronni Chern, Claire Willis, Lucy Westbrook, Sophie Locke, Lynnett Ng, Georgina Woods
FRONT ROW: Samantha Hopkins, Katie Lloyd, Zenoushka Bynevelt, Lily Woods, Elizabeth Ayers, Georgia Thomas, Jia- Ying Choong
ABSENT: Joanna Wierzchos
10 Baird
BACK ROW: Sheridan Brady, Jessie Pocklington, Zoe Lutze, Alexandra Hutton, Bonnie de la Hunty, Madison Foulds, Sophie Pemberton
THIRD ROW: Brittany Notley, Victoria Skinner, Nina Garvey, Tessa Litton-Del Popolo, Sophie Clapin, Emma Thomas, Ashleigh Civiello, Claudia Whitcombe
SECOND ROW: Mr Greg Williams, Caitlin Scaife, Amy Schulz, Isabella Hynes, Madelaine Roden, Chelsea Hughie-Williams, Nicola Kilbee, Mara Day
FRONT ROW: Philippa Martino, Catherine van der Walt, Suzanne Holding, Natalia Hasibuan, Molly Dale, Rachel Bonus
10 Carmichael
BACK ROW: Leona McArdle, Eleni Bacopanos, Laura Cairns, Esther Glauert, Bonnie Stewart, Katherine Barblett
THIRD ROW: Prue Batchelor, Sophie Ward, Imogen Adams, Amelia Hawkins, Ellie Styles, Gemma Swan, Angela Egerton-Warburton
SECOND ROW: Mrs Coralie Gadsdon, Emma Kirkness, Alexis Swan, Minna Shepherd, Jerri-Lee Matthews, Amy Clasquin, Ariane Kingsbury, Lucy Silberstein
FRONT ROW: Molly Garbutt-Wilkins, Tessa Brittain, Haylee Rivers, Gagan Kullar, Megan Kozak, Samantha Capelli, Kay-Lyn Tan
10 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Grace Taylor, Sophie Carter, Jesse Burrell, Farrah Munshi, Tess Grapsas, Annabelle Henderson
THIRD ROW: Sarah Clapin, Olivia Harries, Eliza Whyte, Katie Andersen, Kaitlyn Wellstead, Emma Shelton, Elizabeth Dixon
SECOND ROW: Mrs Adele Philpot, Pinky Boonsakulcharoen, Georgia Denny, Chelsea Corbet, Nicole Mumford, Tessa Beale, Sarah Francis, Zoe Hogan
FRONT ROW: Helen Mackie, Alyssa Pisano, Holly Beeton, Isabella Caporale, Shu ling Wong, Katherine Scarff, Annabel Jeffries
ABSENT: Eloisa Dickinson
10 McNeil
BACK ROW: Nikki Glasfurd, Grace Paterson-Miller, Atteya Thomas, Asha Harris, Eleanor Frew, Laura Henderson, Katelyn Prendiville
THIRD ROW: Bronte Ranford, Hayley Craig, Nicole Platell, Sarah Cole, Daniella Harlan, Tobie-Anna Durk, Anisah Nasir, Madeleine Maguire
SECOND ROW: Mr Roland Leach, Lydia Culley, Erica Morgan, Ronita Bradshaw, Jemma Lawrence, Jessica Oliver, Jordana Smith
FRONT ROW: Phoebe Beurteaux, Isabella Borshoff, Jane Lapsley, Amelia Spackman, Georgia O'Keefe, Yukie Sato, Hannah Martin
ABSENT: Mariko Hunt
10 Stewart
BACK ROW: Zoe Robson, Georgia Williss, Genevieve Graham, Georgia Reid, Lauren Hewett, Georgia Franklin
THIRD ROW: Kendall Whyte, Nikolah Vermeersch, Madelyn Milne, Amy Donovan, Catherine Brogan, Tamsin Mclinden, Flora Lolev
SECOND ROW: Mrs Janet Weston, Eugenia Woo, Teresa Maguire, Phoebe Carre, Stephanie Wright, Grace Dempster, Lauren Rule, Prue Bowman
FRONT ROW: Melissa Brumby, Irene Rogers, Calyca Rogers, Kirsty McLean, Isabelle Thompson, Amy Cox, Lucille Desai
10 Summers
BACK ROW: Belle Casey, Zoe Barham, Sacha Barker, Emerson Tanney, Claire McCrorie, Tessa Randles
THIRD ROW: Madeleine Di Francesco, Kate Halsted, Kimberley Benjamin, Bernadette Nebel, Georgia Westbrook, Molly Gibson, Nicola Hard
SECOND ROW: Mrs Erica Walker, Hannah Tunstill, Elizabeth Gallagher, Anna Williams, Jessica Stacey, Amelia Foulkes, Amelia Henderson-Pitman
FRONT ROW: Rokiyah Bin Swani, Emma Falconer, Katherine Roach, Danielle Millar, Georgia Leech, Cody-Sue Turco, Raena Kaur
11 Baird
BACK ROW: Rachel Hoey, Jennifer Alderson, Julia Mugliston, Andonia Kailis, Rosemary Jeanes
THIRD ROW: Eliza Kavanagh, Jorja Keay, Katherine O'Mahony, Hannah Melder, Celia Thompson, Hannah Busby
SECOND ROW: Mrs Trudy Chick, Emily McCorkill, Brianna Birch, Georgina Carr, Grace Le Fanu, Natasha Pringle
FRONT ROW: Candice Chin, Sophia McGuckin, Courtenay Bombara, Mieke Wevers, Dianna Yong, Nicole Kellow, Caroline Clugston
11 Carmichael
BACK ROW: Ailsa McKechnie, Tahnee Atkinson, Emiko Carter, Emma Rogers, Matilda Sebire, Holly Doherty
THIRD ROW: Hannah Broadhurst, Molly Maeers, Sophie Kesteven, Alice Riddle, Rachel Wallace, Madeleine Porter, Bonina Challenor
SECOND ROW: Miss Fiona Tholet, Isabella Woodhouse, Leah Baker, Brittany Cole, Genevieve Watkins, Louise Hall
FRONT ROW: Marina Takahashi, Margo Wright, Asha Rokich, Kate Phillips, Gabriella Robson, Olivia Gamble
11 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Estelle Stan-Bishop, Darci Miller, Emily Joyner, Kelsey Gill, Georgie Saggers, Frances Foulkes-Taylor
THIRD ROW: Sophie Parker, Greta Carroll, Alexandra Charleston, Mary Bowman, Rebecca Keys, Jamie Bradley, Laura Humphry
SECOND ROW: Mrs Kerrie Williams, Alexandra Mackay, Giorgia Mack, Nicola Pisano, Sally Smirk, Emmy Boonsakulcharoen, Jade Bates
FRONT ROW: Elizabeth Snell, Daniela Acquadro, Sarah Richardson, Vivienne Nguyen, Scarlett Duncan, Elouise Eftos
11 McNeil
BACK ROW: Kia Engledow, Isabella Stewart, Maitlyn Hansen, Jacinta Benetti, Alexandra Crompton, Ashleigh McCloskey
THIRD ROW: Indianna Swanson, Isabel Calder, Jessie Dwyer, Nicola Frewen, Lauren Chappelle, Julia Davis, Julia Garside
SECOND ROW: Mr David Yates, Gabrielle Dellys, Lauren Smith, Ainsley Moore, Grace Templeman, Daisy Howe, Clare Johnston, Sarah Pickles
FRONT ROW: Malindi Haggett, Portia Smallbone, Zoe Cole, Keisha Ingrilli, Christine Pavy, Emily Swan, Kara Joshi
ABSENT: Esmeralda Ashby
11 Stewart
BACK ROW: Madeleine Watts, Fabienne Moser, Hannah Vermeersch, Anna Quirk, Lucy Mengler
THIRD ROW: Rebecca Crommelin, Hayley Maguire, Maddison Stephen, Hannah Steens, Tessa Dempster, Veronica Del Borrello
SECOND ROW: Mr Keith Neale, Katriya Scott, Emma Yole, Caitlin Baird, Eleanor Edwards, Madison Bresa, Clair Hollier
FRONT ROW: Jihaeri Moon, Sarah Josephson, Chloe Leaker, Ella Jackson, Katherine Young, Yue Qin, Liana Tay
11 Summers
BACK ROW: Kimberley Bryant, Sara Gibson, Georgia Mellor, Amelia Brown, Amy Woods
THIRD ROW: Charlotte Lane, Natahlia Glover, Abby Bosman, Maddison Gale, Ellen Eales, Rebecca Miller
SECOND ROW: Miss Guin Hodges, Hannah Wade, Mollie Atkins, Arianna Verios, AIIira Grixti, Charlotte Rufus, Hollie Gillespie
FRONT ROW: Lucy Treasure, Camilla Golding, Elizabeth Chessell, Sophie Joske, Laura Ng, Debbie Choo
ABSENT: Elizabeth Lor
12 Baird
BACK ROW: Catherine Roden, Morwenna Maclean, Daisy de la Hunty, Sophie Berson, Ashleigh Scaife
THIRD ROW: Hope Gilmour, Chelsea Wells, Emma Anderson, Billie MacTaggart, Hannah McKelvie, Catherine Mews
SECOND ROW: Mr Matthew Donaldson, Caitlin Ferrell, louisa Robson, Jessie O'Mahony, Stephanie Baker, Cordelia Coleman, Ms Chantelle James
FRONT ROW: Eloise Bradley, Stephanie Martino, Amy Bilsby, Madison Shepherd, Kirsty Bilney, Adine Wield, Rhiannon Shelton
12 Carmichael
BACK ROW: lydia Bacopanos, Amy Wright, Melissa Dale, Georgia Donaldson, Philippa Nilant, Kate Farnsworth
THIRD ROW: Sarah Hejleh, Olivia Swan, McKenzie Goldsmith, Alice Shenton, Madeleine Adams, Chloe Ng, Sara Winfield
SECOND ROW: Ms Sarah Robey, Cordelia Mortimer, lucinda Reynolds, Amy Clifton, Emily Palmer, Sheridan Dalitz, Ms Bianca Cazzulino
FRONT ROW: Adelaide Nelson, Rachel Chandler, Sarah Northey, lauren Walker, Bronte Cramer, Tara lewis, Manisha Raj
12 Ferguson
BACK ROW: Georgia Mackay, Courtney Kidd, Ellie Gray, lauren Dunn, laura Cowley, Rosie Outhwaite
THIRD ROW: Victoria Gill, Nada Baradja, Sarah Carter, Jenae Kerr, Catherine Donnelly, Lisa Kyle, Sophie Pember
SECOND ROW: Mr Greg Jones, Virginia lannigan, Kristen Chiswell, Jennifer Mumford, Alice Carter, Charlotte Main, Diana Nguyen, Ms Meg Anderson
FRONT ROW: Aarksara Faa, Kate Holmes, Charlotte Smail, Chloe Hutt, Samsara Limin, Julia Simpson, Pamela Ng
ABSENT: Rebecca Moffat
12 McNeil
BACK ROW: Phillipa Lightfoot, Jillian Shrapnel, Anja Muecke, Mia Washbourne, Rosie Burton, Charlotte Devenport
THIRD ROW: Tara Hunter, Sarah Dandridge, Melanie Chenoweth, Isobel Hennessy, Cassandra McCloskey, Margot McGeoch, Sharnie Sammut
SECOND ROW: Mr Greg Moran, Tessa McOnie, Tess Sandford, Tamsin Venter, Georgia Frew, Tamika Pitt-Lancaster, Emily Alexander, Mr M Hinchley
FRONT ROW: Georgia Drake-Brockman, Isabella Corser, Jan-Marie Thomas, Sanchia Thomas-McCarthy, Calypso Haggett, Hye Ree Kim, Ellie Beurteaux
12 Stewart
BACK ROW: Georgia Mclinden, Arabella Tole, Charlotte Lang, Ellen McGuckin, Sophie Milne, Meg McDonald
THIRD ROW: Hannah Broughton, Ellie Kempe, Pascale Young, Anna Balston, Gabrielle Rule, Alice Johnstone, Heather Foulner
SECOND ROW: Mr Jonathan Lewis, Alana Corr, Georgia Middleton, Pia BessellBrowne, Katharina Spanbroek, Alice Broun, Mrs Ann Smith
FRONT ROW: Sara Louie, Darcy Phillips, Sabrina Del Borrello, Imogen Forbes-Macphail, Yejin Shin, Annathea Curry, Annabel Hall
12 Summers
BACK ROW: Holly Constantine, Alison McLean, Sally Murray, Chelsea Caudwell, Antonia Murphy-Richmond, Hannah Murray
THIRD ROW: Julia Miller, Grace McCallum, Christine Faris, Philippa Bartlett, Holly O'Meehan, Abi Ellis, Madelene Mulholland
SECOND ROW: Ms Pamela Jane, Lucy Fry, Jessica Ong, Anna Bond, Jennifer Chan, Cate Willis, Ms Narelle Lange
FRONT ROW: Gemma Maclean, Jane Ayers, Megan Campbell, Krystin Thomas, Lucy Moir, Kate Tunstill, Stephanie Nelsiana Chandra
At the beginning of this year, I was told that orange was chosen as the colour for PlCs most recently introduced House because it reflected the bright and spirited nature of the girls who would be chosen for it. Since then I have discovered that this could not have been a more appropriate decision, as the wonderful Bairdians have proved time and time again how energetic, determined and generally good fun they are.
The year began with a quiet, by Baird standards, Inter-House swimming carnival, with Georgie Rakich a standout performer as runner-up Year 9 diving champion.
Next on the Inter-House agenda was Theatre Sports, where an inspiring individual effort by Olivia Grivas (Year 7) led to a combined Ferguson-Baird (FerB) victoryi As for her dedicated support group - whoever would have thought that Thriller-style zombies and dancing salmon could be such successful cheerleaders? Congratulations and thank you to Mez Maclean (Year 12) for her talented leadership on an outrageously entertaining night.
Cross-country passed with its usual blur of colours. Baird, led by Billie MacTaggart (Year 12) and Hope Gilmour (Year 12), was awarded fourth place, and Year 10 legend Catherine van der Walt crossed the line well ahead of the rest of the School!
While Baird teams across the Years contributed to many smaller sports competitions throughout 2008, again with the assistance of Billie and Hope, the final major sporting event was the Inter-House athletics. Crazy orange costumes, lollies and participation abounded. Baird placed an admirable third overall, and a special mention must go to Year 7 runner-up champion
Miranda Quenby, Year 10 champion
Catherine van der Walt (who broke no fewer than three PlC records on her way to glory) and the Year 12 champion Daisy de la Hunty (sixth year in a row - what can we say')) and runner-up Emma Anderson. Further tireless efforts from the swimming and athletics coordinators Daisy (Year 12) and Eloise
(Year 12) Bradley ensured the day ran smoothly.
On the academic side of school life, Baird was nothing short of dominant. Under the enthusiastic, never-say-die leadership of Cordelia Coleman (Year 12), every Baird debating team made it to the grand final, with all but the Year 12s (despite their contribution to an absolutely memorable debate) emerging successful. This was matched by impressive efforts from the public speaking participants and the rather competitive Inter-House academics teams.
As usual, the year was set to culminate in a blast of orange on Arts Day. The amazingly talented Stephanie Baker transformed the House into a choir of angels over several lunchtimes, while our equally accomplished Arts Day coordinator, Catherine Roden (Year 12), threatened dire consequences if we fell short of a 100% participation rate. Thanks for the enthusiasm and commitment from the entire Baird team.
Congratulations on an excellent year as a House, girls. Thanks to our advisor, Mr Donaldson, for his continual support and passion for all things Baird. And thank you to all the girls, especially the brilliant Year 12s, for another unforgettable year. Best wishes for the 2009 Baird leaders and their clan, and congratulations to Celia Thompson, Baird captain for next year. The future remains a bright and spirited outlook for this awesome orange House.
On the academic sid of school life, Baird wa noth'ng short of dominant
As IISIWI, the year was set to cllllllillate ill a blast oj orallge all Arts Day.
Cross-colllltry passed with its ILsllal blllr oj colaars.
PLAY THE GAME. Since its inception, this motto has been a tenet of Carmichael and a goal that I believe has been achieved throughout the 2008 school year. We have had some amazing achievements, whether they were of individual performance or team effort I Everyone was involved in the true spirit of Carmichael.
From the beginning of Term 1, our 'Blue Passionate' crew was off and racing - literally. The swimming carnival was the first event on the calendar. The stands were almost empty, on account of the fact that the majority of girls spent more time in the pool than out l
We swam our way to victory with a second place for the Senior School and a fifth place for the Middle School. Many thanks go out to Bronte Cramer (Year 12) and Lucy Reynolds (Year 12) for their expertise; the pair did an amazing job in leading and organising the House. The ample participation, exuberance and encouraging words exchanged between individuals was profound and epitomised what our House motto is essentially about.
Inter-House cross-country was next on the sporting agenda. Might I add, this event was more to do with briskly walking than running I Despite being placed sixth, the Carmichael girls should be applauded for the great energy perpetuated on the day. Addy Nelson (Year 12) and Liv Swan (Year 12) led the girls and should be commended on their efforts. Without their proficient leadership, the day and events would not have run so fluently.
The next major event on the calendar was the Inter-House athletics carnival. Not only did the blue paint come out, but also the blue flare. The girls deserve a great big pat on the back, as the participation rate was amazing. Congratulations should be extended to Georgia Siciliano (Year 8) of Carmichael who was awarded champion girl of her Year. The amazing participation rate and talent of the Carmichael community culminated in a fifth place ribbon for the House. However, we took to the stage in House marching and marched our way into third place.
Sport is notthe only area Carmichael
has excelled in this year. House arts activities have provided an opportunity for Carmichaelians to showcase their talent and represent their House. Might I just say, House improvisation was exceptional. The night was characterised by the hilarious acting and bravery of the girls. Thanks to all the girls, particularly McKenzie Goldsmith (Year 12) and the cheerleaders, who helped us attain second place.
The final big event on the calendar was Arts Day, the day when the Carmichael team shows off both its talented and creative sides, with nearly the whole House participating in dance and choir. The day was filled with plenty of energy and along the way we had lots of fun and laughter. Special thanks to Sarah Hejleh (Year 12) - you did a wonderful job as the arts coordinator and ensured everything ran smoothly and according to plan. Thanks to the girls who baked, sewed, sang and danced on the day - you really upped the standard for Carmichael. We sure did end Arts Dayan a positive note; Uncle Kracker will never leave our minds thanks to Lauren Walker the House Choir captain who never let our House down. Lauren, you had the biggest shoes to fill and did it so well. Thanks Loz for your support.
Finally to the Carmichael Year 12s, I don't think I have ever met such a great, enthusiastic, caring and fun bunch of girls. We couldn't have asked for a better House tutor group. Your support and encouragement throughout the year confounds me and I will never forget the funny memories and countless laughs we have all shared. Best of luck for the year to come and I wish you the best in dealing with the challenges that lie ahead. No matter which path you take, I have no doubt you will all find success in your lives. Huge thanks must go to our House tutors, Ms Robey and Ms Caz. Your support, mentoring and guidance have enabled us to flourish in all aspects of our lives and that will always be remembered. Special mention must also go to Ms Robey as our House Advisor. Your kind words, warm smile and huge heart have strengthened the Carmichael group and spirit. We cannot thank you enough for your help and
guidance. You have been an inspiration and role model to all Carmichael girls. It has been a pleasure to lead such an awesome, talented bunch of girls and a great House. Congratulations and good luck to everyone for an amazing year. Best wishes to the new Carmichael House Captain Emiko Carter and the future Year 12s. I wish you every success! Keep your 'blue spirits' high and make sure you always PLAY THE GAME.
The ample participation, exuberance and encouraging words exchanged between individuals was profound and epitomised what our House motto is essentially about.
We Sll'alll Ollr way to victory wi,h 0 secolld place Jar the Sellior School olld a Jifth place for the Middle School.
The filial big event on the co lendar was A rts Day, the do y when the Carmichael team shows oJJ both its talented and creotive sides, with nearly the whole /lanse porticipatillg ill dOllce alld choir.
Second week back caused all the new and old faces in red to dive back into the action with the swimming carnival. Due to the contribution and effort from everyone on the day we were awarded a solid third place overall. Some of the outstanding girls included Annabelle Packer (Year 7) who was runner-up champion in both swimming and diving, Bethany Johns (Year 9) who was runner-up champion in the pool, sisters Tori (Year 12) and Kelsey (Year 11) Gill who always seem to amaze everybody with their speed and were awarded champion girl for their respective Years, and Jamie Bradley (Year 11), Amberlie Boyd (Year 9) and Rachael Farquar (Year 8) who all achieved a first place in diving.
We ended Term 1 well by taking out the last Inter-House competition of the term, Theatre Sports, with three of our Year 9s and one Baird girl who made up the combination team of 'Furby' creating a night full of laughs and drama that kept the whole audience entertained. Congratulations also go to the mighty cheer squad who earned themselves a perfect ten for their passion and spirited chants putting us in first place in this section too.
Participation was the key for the athletics carnival and this paid off for the girls who were placed runner-up champions: Cody Gribble (Year 8), Charlie Gribble (Year 9), Sophie Carter (Year 10), Scarlett Duncan (Year 11). They all put in incredible effort and so did all the other girls dressed in red for the big day.
Throughout the year Fergo girls showed their competitive streak competing in all the various InterHouse activities ranging from all the other sports, Inter-House academic, and the public speaking and debating. All the girls who entered in these events gave their all for the House whether it be running cross-country, balancing equations or arguing their opinion - and it paid off with pleasing results overall.
Arts Day highlighted the amount of effort many girls put into the House and also their support for one another. Everybody participated with enthusiasm
on the day, whether in the creative or performing section, which made the biggest day of the year a great success. Arts Day again ended with House Choir and all the girls ready to sing their hearts out to pop classic Bring It All Back by S Club 7. There have been many unforgettable moments this year in Ferguson. Even though we didn't always win, it didn't matter, because everybody participated, encouraged and cheered, making us have as much fun either way. Good luck to all the leaders of next year, I am sure you will keep the proud spirit of Fergo alive. Thank you to all the Year 12s and Mr Saunders for all their support and leadership, and extra thanks go to the coordinators who helped make the year such a success. Congratulations to Sally Smirk, 2009 House Captain. Remember, there are two types of people in the world: those in Fergo and those who wish they were!
Second week back caused all the new and old faces in red to dive back into the action with the swimming carnival.
There h"ve bee II III (Ill)' ullforgetloble moments tlris yeoI' ill Ferguson.
Arts Do} highlighted the (//1I01l1lt oj e.fTort 111(11)' girls put illto the "ollse olld "Iso their support for Olle ollother.
The 2008 McNeil Year 12s wore "Death is not an option" on the back of their shirts and it was definitely a goal the whole House lived up to. This has been a year of effort, perseverance and fiery spirit in all aspects of House life - and with this has come victory.
This 'year of yellow' began with the annual swimming carnival. Challenge Stadium was alive as the stands swarmed with yellow, but the McNeilians were not in the stands for long, as the voices of the yellow crew moved down onto the pool deck where we had a go at absolutely everything I All the participation and hard work paid off as we took home the trophies for both swimming and diving. Runnerup champion for swimming went to Jessamy Burton (Year 8), Katelyn Prendiville (Year 10) and Jacinta Benetti (Year 11). Our Year 10 divers took out a clean sweep with Nicole Platell taking champion girl and Hayley Craig taking runner-up.
Theatre Sports was up next with a superb display of our artistic talent under the wing of who better than Tess Sanford (Year 12) The McNeil's stormed the stage and did McNeil proud, along with the cheerleaders and their award winning "yella-umbrella" chant. Isobel Hennessy (Year 12) rounded up all our public speakers and debaters for this year. Well done to all who took part. You did an exceptional job. A special mention goes to Asleigh McCloskey (Year 11) and Hannah Newnes (Year 9) for their successes.
Cross-country was next on the agenda. Everyyear it is the love of McNeil (and of course, a good run) that gets us over the line. Georgia Drake-Brockman (Year 12) and Jan-Marie Thomas (Year 12) did an exceptional job of organising not only the wonderful cross-country afternoon but also all other Inter-House sports played this year.
The athletics carnival saw a McNeil clean sweep. Under the coordination of Mia Washbourne (Year 12) and Cassie McClosky (Year 12) and with the amazing talents of all McNeilians, the day could not have run smoother (or with more face paint). Mia Washbourne (Year 12) and Grace Jones (Year 7) were
awarded champion girl for their Year groups, and Erica Morgan (Year 10) was runner-up champion girl.
As always, Arts Day was the most exciting and busy day of the year, with McNeilians showing their talent; be it singing, dancing, cooking or acting, everyone was involved. That afternoon, in a dazzling display of voices, the fabulous McNeilian House Choir, lead by the talented Emily Alexander (Year 12), sang I Can See Clearly Now (the rain has gone) sweeping any signs of a cloudy day out the window. Thanks go to Margot McGeoch (Year 12) for ensuring a not-to-be-forgotten spectactular Arts Day.
Thank you to House Advisors Mr Hinchley and Mr Jones (successfully converted this year!). A massive thank you to all the House coordinators and House tutors, and to Mr Moran who has put up with us since we were little rascals in Year 9. Thank you also to the Year 12 McNeilians who have been fantastic this year and are the most exceptional group of girls. Good luck to all the 2009 Year 12s and the new House captain Malindi Haggett. You have such a fantastic year ahead of you -enjoy it l
Finally, to all the McNeilians out there, you never cease to amaze me with your talents, perseverance and willingness to 'go for it'. Keep the victory fires burning close to your hearts and never say die.
As al,cays, Arts Day ,cas the lI/os1 exciting and busy day of tire year. ,citlr il1c,"eilians slrowing tlreir lalellt
Tire McNeil's stormed the stage and did McNeil proud, along witlr tire clreerleaders and their uWlIrd winn.illg "yellau", brella " challt.
Dressed finely in green, their attitudes keen, the mighty Stewart girls regally stand. With their uniforms proud, they shine from the crowd, all year participation was grand. They dived and they swam, they danced, skipped and ran, their wit was the best without doubt. Such a team to behold, the spirit big and bold, it all screams
STEWART'S HERE WATCH OUTl
Stewart started the year with a jump into the swimming carnival and diving activities. With green caps racing down the pool and the Stewart cheers roaring from the sidelines we were a force to be reckoned with. Congratulations to our diving champions, Jana Harvey (Year 7) and Annabel Hall (Year 12), and our swimming champion Indiana Read (Year 9) and runner-up champion HeatherClaire Foulner (Year 12). Well done to the Middle School on their amazing first place. A big thanks to Stewart House, whose marvellous participation and high spirits led us to second place overall.
With our wonderful dramatic talents Stewart girls were tough competitors in Theatre Sports. Well done to all Middle School girls who participated, the performance was an eventful night with Stewart never ceasing to stun the crowd with their quick wit and interpretive skills. A big thanks to Katharina Spanbroek (Year 12), our Theatre Sports coordinator, who organised the team and led and encouraged a crowd of energetic cheerleaders from the sidelines.
The highly anticipated public speaking and debating were exciting events for Stewart this year, with the girls displaying their talents and charm. Well done to all the Stewart girls who took part in debating this year, especially to the Year 12s; Georgia Mclinden, Arabella Tole and Imogen Forbes-Macphail, who won the finals. Congratulations to Alex Stroud (Year 9) and Phoebe Carre (Year 10) who won the public speaking competition for their age groups and also to Georgia Mclinden who proved to be a strong competitor in the Year 12 public speaking finals. A big thanks goes to our public speaking and debating coordinator Arabella Tole (Year 12), whose positive encouragement steered Stewart speakers toward some fierce and entertaining debates.
Next in the Stewart calendar was the Inter-House cross-country. With Stewart shirts to be seen everywhere and lots of fluoro-green zinc, the day was a thrill. The amazing spirit of the Stewart team was clear as girls ran, skipped and even in pairs 'three-legged' their way over the finish line. I applaud the Year 9s who dominated, with Jessica Pleydell-Bouverie champion girl, Sophie Forrester runner-up champion and Natasha Gay in third place, followed by an outstanding first place for the Middle School.
Throughout the year, Stewart girls have shown amazing talent in the InterHouse sporting activities. It is always a pleasure to see long lines of green shirts, just waiting to participate. Whether the sport is volleyball, badminton, soccer, basketball, netball - you name it, our girls are always there, without fail, to make the Stewart family proud. Thanks to our Inter-House sport and crosscountry coordinators Ellie Kempe (Year 12) and Georgia Middleton (Year 12) who put in the time and effort that saw Stewart receive outstanding results from all Year groups.
This year the Inter-House athletics carnival was a fantastic event for Stewart House. To the songs and shouts of high-spirited cheerleaders, Stewart girls masterfully graced the track and field events. A big thanks to the girls, who put maximum effort into this busy day and took their talents through the marching event with strong strides and straight lines. I congratulate champion girls, Jessica Pleydell-Bouverie (Year 9) and Hannah Vermeersch (Year 11) and our runner-up champion Eleanor Edwards (Year 11). The day was a huge success with Stewart placing second overall for both the athletics and marching events. Well done to Alice Johnstone (Year 12) and Alana Corr (Year 12). our swimming and athletics coordinators, who devoted a great deal of their time to the organising of the events - you were amazing!
The most awaited day of the year, Arts Day, was no disappointment. With Stewart contribution up to its usual highs, our green family flooded the PLC campus in both creative and performing
arts. A big thanks goes to our arts coordinator Hannah Broughton (Year 12) who did a fantastic job rounding up the keen participants. The excitement of Arts Day competitions was concluded with a vibrant performance of Hit the Road Jack conducted by our wonderful House Choir coordinator Katharina Spanbroek (Year 12). It was great to see all the girls participating; they're always sure to represent the House with skill and pride.
To the House tutors, thank you for your countless hours of effort and dedication. The Stewart family has really benefited from your guidance. In particular, thanks to our Year 12 House tutors, Mrs Smith and Mr Lewis, who have been with us since Year 9, through the ups and downs of school life and have never faltered.
A special thanks to our House Advisor Mrs Litton, whose support throughout the year has been invaluable I I am so grateful to you for being so amazingly approachable and for supplying the endless advice that got me through the year.
Congratulations to Tessa Dempster, our House captain for 2009 - all the best to you and the Stewart Year 12 leaders. I have no doubt you girls will encourage Stewart to continue being the fantastic group they are and maintain the amazing participation and spirit of the House.
Thanks my fellow Stewartian's for making this year memorable and fun - the best yet I
In conclusion to our year, lovely memories are clear, Stewart's splendour was put the test. With the challenges we faced, success we did taste, it was plain Stewart House is the BEST!
With our wonderful dramatic talents Stewart girls were tough competitors in Theatre Sports.
The highly olllicipoted pllblic speo/':illg olld debating u.'ere exciting eventslor Steu.'ort this year, leilh Ihe girls displaying their lalents and clrarm.
n itlr green caps racing d01l'1I Ihe 1'001 (llId /he Stereor' cheers roaring/rom the sidelilles lee lcere a force 10 be rec/':olled leilh.
"Lets Go Summers!" were the words that began the action-packed year! Summers is well known for its excellence in all aspects of participation, effort, commitment and House spirit, and this year was no exception, as the Summers girls of 2008 certainly exceeded this reputation I Purple could be seen advancing its way up the tracks, slashing through water, sashaying on the stage and cheering from the sidelines. As the curtains slowly close on another eventful year, I can't help but reflect on the spirit of our Summers girls our very own Olympians (at heart).
We kick-started the year with the swimming carnival. The 'purple haze' across the pool was an indication of the high levels of participation and talent, placing us fourth overall. On the same day, we leapt off the diving board with perfection into first place! Special congratulations to the Champion girls, Sophie Foulkes (Year 7), Anna Williams (Year 10) and runner-up diver Sara Gibson (Year 11).
Later in the year, the girls put their heart and soul into cross-country, running fearlessly for the House! The purple passion paid off and there was a collective gasp of delight when Summers was announced equal-first champions for cross-country! Superb running from Anneliese Donaldson (Year 7) and Charlotte Lane (Year 11), champion girls for their Year groups and runner-up, Bella Blakiston (Year 8) I
The athletics carnival was our last major sporting event of the year. Armed with our purple shirts, Wigs, capes, hairspray and smiles on our super faces; after hours of cheering, hurdling, jumping, screaming and throwing, Summers was placed fourth overall. However, this did not stop us from chanting "Summers go marching four by four hoorah, hoorah I" striding to first place in the marching competition - the highlight of my year!.
It was not just the leg muscles that got a work out, but the brain too, with an extremely successful year in the arts for Summers. Our public speaking finalists Cazza Dunham (Year 9) and Sophie Joske (Year 11) certainly had a way with words and we celebrated
Hannah taking out first prize in the Year 12 competition! And although we did not make the finals for debating, we certainly got our points across and kept up our House spirit. We talked, cheered, staged and acted our way through Theatre Sports, which once again proved to be an entertaining, fun-filled (and purple) night.
To all the Year 12s - thank you for your support and encouragement, every one of you has had something unique to offer the House! A big thanks to our House tutors over the years, especially Miss Keighery and Mrs Anderson for teaching us how to wear our spunky Summers shirts with pride I Last but not least, a huge thank you to our House Advisor Ms Lange who has been at the heart of the Summers spirit!
Being in Summers House for many priceless years.. watching Summers change from white to purple.. It has been an absolute honour to get to know all the Summers girls and to watch them grow over the years. Because of Summers I have had tears of joy, pride and laughter. Summers is and will always be the best House, so girls, wear that purple with pride and may the eternal spirit of the purple powerHouse continue I
Congratulations to Mollie Atkins, the new Summers captain for 2009. The Summers power is now in your hands!
I leave you with an acrostic poem that I believe reflects the Summers House spirit:
Stepping up to take the challenge Ultimate participation and contribution Making new friends
Mesmerising talents
Everlasting friendships
Readiness to lend a helping hand Summer Lovin'!
Jennifer Chon - Summers House Captain
II was nol jusllhe leg muscles thai gOI (l 1V0rk oul, but the brain too, with an extremely surcessJul )'ear in the ([rtsJor Summers.
"Lets Go Summers!" were The parple passion paid aJJ the words that began the olld there was a collective gosp action-packed year! a/delight ,chell Sallllllers '''os (111110Unced equ.al-first champions for cross-colllllr)'!
