Pymbulletin December 2016

The Centenary Issue

PYMBLE LADIES’ COLLEGE 2016 VOLUME 40 NO. 1 ISSUE | THE CENTENARY

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Contents

Principal’s Message

The Centenary Issue Principal’s Message

Middle School highlights

A year to remember....................................... 3

Thank you for the music............................... 36 Pymble kids become teachers................... 37

Centenary Celebrations Foundation Day............................................... 4 International Women’s Day.......................... 6 Centenary Sports Precinct........................... 7

FRONT COVER Director of Music, Mrs Sabina Turner takes a bow after conducting Peace on Earth, the final musical item in Aurora – Dawn of a New Century, Centenary Gala Concert.

Photo by Daryl Charles.

EDITOR Mrs Mara Lee

Ms Amelia Hull

Upper School highlights

Commemoration Day Service and Centenary Luncheon............................ 10

We’re MAD for Change ................................ 42

Former Boarders return for sleepover..................................................... 12

Right here, write now..................................... 44

Pymble, the Musical!...................................... 15

We’re here to serve......................................... 46

Memories are made of this.......................... 16

Creating global communities...................... 47

Celebrating our sports stars........................ 18 Focus on staff Dean of Students, K-12 ................................. 20 Head of Junior School ................................. 21 Head of Middle School.................................. 21 Community Engagement team................. 21 Preparatory School highlights From paddock to plate.................................. 22 My Time ............................................................. 22 Young minds embrace STEM...................... 24 Students re-write history............................... 25 Our girls are great sports!............................. 26

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Mrs Vicki Waters, Mrs Kelly Mancey, Miss Milica Djukanovic and Mrs Katrina Corcoran.

Just another Mindful Monday..................... 39 Leaning in and leading at the Middle........ 40

Centenary Gala Concert............................... 9

Town planners in the making...................... 23 DESIGNER

Destination: NASA........................................... 38

Year 9 Learning Showcase .......................... 43 Exploring lessons in life................................. 45

Senior School highlights Year 11 camp..................................................... 48 It’s hip to be square!....................................... 50 Tackling tricky topics...................................... 51 Young driver (and passenger) safety......... 51 Farewell Year 12, Class of 2016 .................. 52 College community events Icebreaker.......................................................... 54 Remembering our ANZACs......................... 55 Biggest morning tea for 2200-plus!.......... 56 Pymble hosts charity of hope..................... 57 Cultural network unites parents................. 57

Italian lessons come to life .......................... 26

It was the party of the Centenary!............. 58

Love is in the air............................................... 27

Sports and Activities highlights Look who’s mentoring Pymble girls......... 60

Junior School highlights STEM steams ahead....................................... 28 Great minds think like da Vinci .................. 29

Tildesley Shield tennis triumph .................. 61 AFL legends support scholars .................... 61 In a league of their own................................ 62

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

The PJ Factor ................................................... 30

Pymbulletin is published by Pymble Ladies’ College, Avon Rd, Pymble 2073

Junior School Spirit Awards......................... 30

Please email submissions to Mrs Mara Lee at mlee@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au

Poet’s corner..................................................... 32

Campers out of comfort zones................. 33

Black Watch Ties

Ex-Students’ Union submissions can be emailed to Mrs Katrina Corcoran at kcorcoran@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au

Boarding highlights

President’s Report........................................... 64

Junior School hall of fame ......................... 31

Dancing their way to the top....................... 62 A whole new world of opportunities........ 63

Boarders’ memories live on......................... 34 Earth hour at Pymble..................................... 34 City and country unite................................... 35

A year to remember As our Centenary year draws to a close, I look back at the commemorative events of each term with gratitude. I feel inordinately proud of the growth, achievements and traditions of the College and I am humbled by the way our community has come together as a family to show how much we care about each other and our shared history. I am struck by the richness and depth of the relationships forged at and around Pymble.

2016 was our opportunity to shine the light on the special people who paved the way for the educational excellence our girls did, do and will always enjoy at here at the College.

We paid tribute to our visionary founding Principal, Dr John Marden for believing that young women deserved an education that was equal to that of their male counterparts, and that sports and physical activity were essential to students’ wellbeing. As a result of our commemorations acknowledging these beginnings, every student at the College, right down to our youngest Preparatory School girl, now knows the name of Dr Marden and understands how his vision has shaped their experience at the College today.

We have honoured our past Principals and staff for their commitment to Dr Marden’s ideal and for their own important contributions to the College, which have helped it to adapt, grow and flourish through good and bad times, which included two world wars, the depression and periods of great social, political and technological change.

We have welcomed back many ex-students and former boarders to share memories and to make new ones at the College, and in reunions held across Australia and in countries overseas.

2016 was an opportunity to shine the light on the special people who paved the way for the educational excellence our girls enjoy at Pymble.

While each Centenary event we hosted was significant in its own right, the highlights for me included our two commemorative concerts, Aurora – Dawn of a New Century, Centenary Gala Concert; and the Kindergarten – Year 6 Musical, Blackwatch Tales: 100 Years of Memories and Recollections.

There was no denying the outstanding musical talent showcased in Aurora – Dawn of a New Century or the extraordinary efforts of our staff to produce such a masterful program. The fact that each one of the 600-plus performers was either a past or present student, staff member or parent was significant and reflects the unbreakable ties that bind our community together. As for Blackwatch Tales, this delightful musical was a most memorable way to bring the stories and events of Pymble’s past to life and to once again unite our past with our present.

It was a busy year indeed, as reflected in this special commemorative issue of Pymbulletin. I hope you enjoy these highlights from our Centenary celebrations, our many College events and the myriad personalised learning opportunities that our girls enjoy every day throughout the five schools within Pymble.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy festive season, and a prosperous new year.

Vicki L Waters PRINCIPAL

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THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 3

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

Foundation Day launches a memorable year of celebrations

There was no mistaking the atmosphere of excitement in the air from day one of Term 1 when official celebrations for our Centenary year began.

First 1916 on the agenda was a step back in time…8 February 1916

916 926

to

1916

8 February 1916

1916 1926

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The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Croydon and was also under the supervision and care of the same Principal, Dr John Marden.

The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Croydon and was also under the supervision and care of the same Principal, Dr John Marden.

to officially opened pie. The House was nel Goodlet, one f Croydon College the Site Selecting ymble. Marden had already been 31 July 1926 6.

Goodlet House is officially opened

DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920 DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD

19 March 1926 The first swimming pool is opened

by His Excellency, the GovernorGeneral, Lord Stonehaven. At that time there were no fences or dressing sheds. This pool served the school well before its replacement in 1983 by the Jeanette Buckham Centre for Physical Education.

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to

to

May 1926exercise the College, including maypole dancing, physical formations, 2 August 1927 bush dancing and parlour games.

31 July 1926

1927 Students 1936also delighted in the surprise arrival of Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and Chair of College Council, Mr Braith

May 1926 The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 students including 161 Boarders.

The Ex-Students’ Union for the College was also formed with the first President (known then as convenor) Mollie Vicars.

1937 1946

The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 studentsGoodlet including 161 Boarders.

House is officially opened The Ex-Students’ Union the

by Mr RWforGillespie.

The House was College was also formed with the first named Colonel Goodlet, one President (known thenafter as convenor) Mollie Vicars. of the founders of Croydon College

Official toopening of the John Marden Memorial Gates. They were built as a fitting tribute to the founding Principal, Dr John Marden who passed away on 29 October 1924.

Mr J H Beatson, member of the 2 August 1927 College Council, cut the red and white cords.

Official opening of the John Marden

to

and a member of the Site Selecting

June 1926

June 1926

The College motto “All’ Ultimo The College motto “All’ Ultimo Lavoro” and badge is first recorded Lavoro” and badge is first recorded in the Magazineinofthethe Presbyterian Magazine of the Presbyterian College Ladies’ College Ladies’ Pymble.

ThePymble. first The first to 1929 bore badge used frombadge 1916used to from 19291916 bore a crest with the words Presbyterian a crest with the Ladies’ wordsCollege Presbyterian Sydney.

Ladies’ College Sydney.

“ Today the College exemplifies the spirit of its founder, Dr John Marden, a man of forward thinking, great capacity and drive who believed that women should be given the best that education had to offer and who encouraged girls to think for themselves and live by the College motto, All’ Ultimo Lavoro PRINCIPAL 1936-1967 – Strive for the Highest,” said Mrs Waters.

MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX,

1937

1916

1927 1916 Following the service, students Year 12 1927from Kindergarten to1926 1936 participated in activities that reflected the eras and history of

Memorial Gates. They were built as a fitting tribute to the founding Principal, Dr John Marden who passed away on 29 October 1924.

Mr J H Beatson, member of the College Council, cut the red and white cords.

FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920

ng pool is opened y, the Governoronehaven. At ere no fences or This pool served the e its replacement anette Buckham cal Education.

1927

The program commenced with a Foundation Day Service which took students, staff, College Council and special guests on a journey back to the very first day at the College.

The service embraced the traditions of the last century and the experiences of the original 60 students and staff exactly one hundred years ago.

Pymble. Marden Williams on a horse drawn carriage of yesteryear, Committee aheadfor of 21 April and Lang Houses had already been 1938 completed in 1916. the proceedings.

by Mr RW Gillespie. The House was named after Colonel Goodlet, one of the founders of Croydon College and a member of the Site Selecting Committee for Pymble. Marden and Lang Houses had already been completed in 1916.

926

Our College celebrated 100 years of educating girls and young women on Monday 8 February 2016, a day steeped in history.

Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of Sydney. It was the first endowed building for the College and contained seven new classrooms as well as a private residence for the Principal.

1937 1937 1946 to

1916 1926

21 April 1938 to

Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of Sydney. It was the first endowed building for the College and contained seven new classrooms as 31 July 1926 well as a private residence for the Goodlet House is officially opened Principal.

8 February 1916 The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Croydon and was also under the supervision and care of the same Principal, Dr John Marden.

1916

Visit from Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester, whose husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia from 1944 to 1947. After lunch at the Principal’s residence the Duchess received a tour of the school and greeted students along the Colonnade.

by Mr RW Gillespie. The House was named after Colonel Goodlet, one of the founders of Croydon College and a member of the Site Selecting Committee for Pymble. Marden and Lang Houses had already been completed in 1916.

MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, AM, OBE, MA, FACE

The outbreak of World War II did not have an immediate effect on the College but steps were taken to protect the school. A bomb shelter was established under the Colonnade and this was first put to use by the Boarders during an air raid on the night of 7 June.

published quarterly.

1947

to

1947 1956

The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council Presbyterian Ladies’ College toasOfficial opening of the John Marden Croydon and was also under the Memorialand Gates. were built supervision care ofThey the same Principal, Dr John Marden. as a fitting tribute to the founding

2 August 1927

1927 1936 to

Principal, Dr John Marden who passed away on 29 October 1924.

Mr J H Beatson, member of the 2 August 1927 25 February 1947 College Council, cut the red and Official opening of the John Marden white cords.

A Jacaranda tree is planted on Memorial Gates. They were built as a fitting tribute to the founding Principal, Dr John Marden who passed away on 29 October 1924.

Mr J H Beatson, member of the College Council, cut the red and white cords.

DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD

FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920

June 1926 7 June 1942

19 March 1926The College Mid 1930s motto “All’ Ultimo

The outbreak ofisWorld War II did The first swimming pool opened Lavoro” andrequirements badge is first recorded Uniform have an effect on from the

by Hisnot Excellency, theimmediate inGovernorthemid-1930s.

Magazine of the Presbyterian General, Stonehaven.

At theLord College but steps were taken to The first Ladies’ College Pymble. that time there were no fences or protect the school.

A bomb shelter used dressing sheds. Thisbadge pool served thefrom 1916 to 1929 bore under schoolwas well established before its a replacement crest withthe theColonnade words Presbyterian in 1983 by the Jeanette Buckham and this was first put to useSydney. by the Ladies’ College Centre for Physical Education.

Boarders during an air raid on the night of 7 June.

The year 1946June 1926

The year 1931 Mid 1930s

May 1926

1947 1927 1956

The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 students including 161 Boarders.

The Ex-Students’ Union for the College was also formed with the first President (known then as convenor) Mollie Vicars.

to

May 1926

27 April 1956 Almost 3,000 people gather when the

Moderator General, Right Reverend 25 February 1947 FW Rolland opens and dedicates the

War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was

A Jacaranda isand planted built by F & Ctree Turton designedon by architects,Lawn J Aubrey and Peter Gloucester toKerr commemorate Kerr who ensured the design was in the visit ofwith HRH the Duchess keeping the original buildings. of Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms.

“The roll is complete for about 10 years except for those still in the cradle.

This is an extremely uncomfortable situation and we ask your understanding when it is not possible to enrol many newcomers to this district from other suburbs.”

– MISS KNOX

1957 1966

The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had students including 161 Boarders. to415 The Ex-Students’ Union for the College was also formed with the first President (known then as convenor) Mollie Vicars.

The year 1960 Official opening of the Roland Love Gates. The ceremony was performed

by Mrs Roland Love who was present with her son, Mr Alan Love. The gates were originally part of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building in O’Connell Street, Sydney.

1 195 1

193 194

21 Apr to

Gillespieopened by Chancello Sydney. It building f contained 21 April 1938 well as a p Gillespie-McIllrath Principal.H

opened by Dr Wallac Chancellor of the Un Sydney. It was the fir building for the Coll contained seven new well as a private resi Principal.

PRINCIPAL 1936-1967 MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, AM,PRINCIPAL OBE, MA, FACE 1936-1967 MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, AM, OBE, MA, FACE

DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD

“ TThe hisyear historic day is a grand birthday celebration for 19 March 1926 1931 April 1931 April 1931 The first swimming opened1942 students staff to enjoy, and a wonderful tribute ourpool is7 June Lang House closes and to Boarders as The first issue of the to Ex-Students’

by His Excellency, the Governornumbers fall to 148 day girls and 69 magazine is published. The General, Lord Stonehaven. At College and the tradition of excellence that Dr Marden Boarders, owing to the Depression. magazine wasthat published annually time there were no fences or Boarders were accommodated in November 1989 when was pool served the dressing sheds.itThis sought in the of girls and younguntil women,” Marden and Goodlet Houses education with considered byschool the committee that well before its replacement 10 Boarders at the Principal’s the members in would 1983 be by better the Jeanette Buckham Mrs Waters said. residence, Grey House. Lang House informed by aCentre smaller forbroadsheet, Physical Education. reopened for Boarding in 1935.

Visit from Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester, whose husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia from 1944 to 1947. After lunch at the Principal’s residence the Duchess received a tour of the school and greeted students along the Colonnade.

FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920

PRINCIPAL 1936-1967

The year 1931

The first issue of the Ex-Students’ magazine is published. The magazine was published annually until November 1989 when it was considered by the committee that the members would be better informed by a smaller broadsheet, published quarterly.

1927 1936

Gloucester Lawn to commemorate the visit of HRH the Duchess of Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms.

AM, OBE, MA, FACE

Lang House closes to Boarders as numbers fall to 148 day girls and 69 Boarders, owing to the Depression.

Boarders were accommodated in Marden and Goodlet Houses with 10 Boarders at the Principal’s residence, Grey House. Lang House reopened for Boarding in 1935.

22 November 1946

8 February 1916

22 November 1946

1947

1927

The year 1946

The year 1931 11 August 1949 Lang House closes to Boarders as

4 February 1954

Uniform requirements from the The Giant Stride was introduced and The College motto Lang House closes to Boarders numbers The Giant Stride was introduced and “All’ Ultimo Dame Joan Hammond visits the fall to 148 day girls and 69 Queenas Elizabeth II opens the third mid-1930s. quickly popular girls Lavoro” recorded numbers fall tobecame 148 day girls and of 69with quickly became popular withand girlsbadge is firstCollege and sings for the girls. The session the 37th Parliament of Boarders, owing to the Depression. infrom the Magazine Boarders, to the Depression. fromowing Ingleholme and Twenty from the Junior from Ingleholme and the Juniorof the Presbyterian concert is an outstanding success.

NSW. Pymble girls were Boarders were accommodated in College Boarders were accommodated into see the opening of State School. Metal hand Ladies’ pieces hung downPymble. The first invited School.

Metal hand pieces hung down Marden and Goodlet Houses withMarden badgeby used from 1916 to 1929 bore and Goodlet Houses with from the central maypole a loose Parliament. from the central maypole by a loose crest with words Presbyterian 10 Boarders at the Principal’s 10 Boarders at the Principal’s chain. To get a grip,athe upper or the lower Ladies’ residence, Lang House chain.Grey To House. get a grip, the upper or lower rung was held with one handCollege and theSydney. residence, Grey House. Lang House reopened for Boarding in 1935. chain with the other. rung was held with one hand and the reopened for Boarding in 1935. chain with the other.

April 1931 11 August 1949

April 1931

12 June 1958 The first issue of the Ex-Students’ Dame Joan Hammond visits the The first issue of the Ex-Students’ magazine is published.

The Principal Miss Knox is awarded the College and sings for the girls.

The The is published.

Order of the British Empire (OBE) for magazine wasmagazine published annually magazinesuccess. was publishedservices annuallyto education and for being concert is an outstanding until November 1989 when1989 it was until November when it was an outstanding educationalist. The considered byconsidered the committee that by the committee wholethat school celebrates her award on members would be better the members the would be better the Queen’s Birthday holiday. informed by a smaller broadsheet, informed by apublished smallerquarterly. broadsheet, published quarterly.

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 5

7 June 4 Februa

7 June 1942 The outbre

Queen Elizab

The outbreak of Worl not have a of the notsession have an immediat the Colleg theNSW. College Twenty but steps protect protect the school.th A invited to see was establ was established unde andParliament. this and was first thisput w Boarders during an a Boarders d night of 7 June.

night of 7

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

International Women’s Day

Centenary Sports Precinct opens

Our Secondary School girls were proud to support the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day on Tuesday 8 March, ‘Pledge for Parity’.

The girls were inspired by guest speaker, Pymble ex-student and Global Head of Pro Bono and Corporate Responsibility at Ashurst, Sarah Morton-Ramwell (2001), who spoke about gender equality and protection of women’s rights.

Representatives from the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter addressed the students on domestic violence, the role of the women’s shelter and the progress made in educating people about domestic violence. “ Students and staff at Pymble are passionate about embracing International Women’s Day and supporting and celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women in the past, present and future,” said Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters. “ This day provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their personal goals and aspirations and the contribution they can make to improve the opportunities for other girls across the globe,” Mrs Waters said.

Influential Pymble women • Marie Byles (1917), one of 60 Foundation students in 1916, graduated as Dux and became the first qualified female solicitor in NSW and Australia’s first woman to own a legal practice.

1916

916 926

1927

1937

to

1916 1926

1937 1946

Ladies’ College of mble separate and verned by their own ime, Pymble had uding 161 Boarders.

Union for the formed with the first n then as convenor)

is officially opened spie. The House was lonel Goodlet, one of Croydon College of the Site Selecting Pymble. Marden es had already been 916.

21 April 1938

31 July 1926

Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of Sydney. It was the first endowed building for the College and contained seven new classrooms as well as a private residence for the Principal.

Goodlet House is officially opened

by Mr RW Gillespie. The House was named after Colonel Goodlet, one of the founders of Croydon College and a member of the Site Selecting Committee for Pymble. Marden and Lang Houses had already been completed in 1916.

1926

ming pool is opened cy, the Governortonehaven. At were no fences or This pool served the ore its replacement eanette Buckham ical Education.

7 June 1942 The outbreak of World War II did not have an immediate effect on the College but steps were taken to protect the school. A bomb shelter was established under the Colonnade and this was first put to use by the Boarders during an air raid on the night of 7 June.

The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Croydon and was also under the supervision and care of the same Principal, Dr John Marden.

for her services to sport.to to

1936 1956 • Dame Joan Hammond (1928), pictured above, was

Official opening of the John Marden Memorial Gates. They were built as a fitting tribute to the founding 25 February Principal, Dr John Marden who1947 passed away onA29 October 1924.

Jacaranda tree is planted on Mr J H Beatson, memberLawn of the Gloucester to commemorate College Council, the red and thecut visit of HRH the Duchess of white cords. Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was built by F & C Turton and designed by architects, J Aubrey Kerr and Peter Kerr who ensured the design was in keeping with the original buildings.

an Australian operatic soprano, singing coach 2 August 1927 “The rolland is complete for about 10 years champion golfer. except for those

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms.

Official opening of the John Marden Memorial Gates. They were built as a fitting tribute to the founding Principal, Dr John Marden who passed away on 29 October 1924.

Mr J H Beatson, member of the College Council, cut the red and white cords.

still in the cradle.

This is an extremely uncomfortable situation and we ask your understanding when it is not possible to enrol many newcomers to this district from other PRINCIPAL 1936-1967 suburbs.”

• Barbara Thomas (1924), was a champion hockey player, netballer, physiotherapist and nurse and the first Australian woman to die in World War II. She was commended posthumously for her bravery and courage.

June 1926

• Gillian Bird (1975), is the present ambassador and DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD permanent representative of Australia to the United The year 1931 April 1931 Nations.

June 1926 The year 1931 4 February 1954 April 1931 11 August 1949

The year 1946

Centre for Physical Education.

The College Ultimo The Giant Stride was introduced and motto “All’ Joan Hammond visits the numbers fall toDame 148 day girls and 69 first recorded quickly became popularLavoro” with girlsand badge is College and sings for the girls. The Boarders, to theisDepression. in the Magazine owing of theconcert Presbyterian from Ingleholme and from Junior an outstanding success.

Boarders accommodated in Ladies’ College were Pymble.

The first School. Metal hand pieces hung down and1916 Goodlet used from to 1929Houses bore with from the central maypolebadge by aMarden loose a crest the words Presbyterian chain. To get a grip, the upper lower 10orwith Boarders at the Principal’s Ladies’ Sydney. rung was held with one hand andCollege the residence, Grey House. Lang House chain with the other.

Lang House closes to Boarders as

The first issue of the Ex-Students’

Lang House closes to Queen Boarders as II opens the third magazineElizabeth is published.

The numbers fall to 148 day girls and 6937th Parliament of session of the was published Boarders, owing tomagazine the Depression.

NSW. Twenty Pymble girlsannually were until November when it was Boarders were accommodated invited toin see the1989 opening of State considered by the committee that Marden and Goodlet Houses with Parliament.

10 Boarders at the Principal’s the members would be better residence, Grey House.

Lang House informed by a smaller broadsheet, reopened for Boarding in 1935.

• Ellyse Perry (2008) has represented Australia in international cricket and football.

reopened for Boarding in 1935.

1937 1946 1957

published quarterly.

1957

to

May 1926

The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 students including 161 Boarders.

The Ex-Students’ Union for the College was also formed with the first President (known then as convenor) Mollie Vicars.

1966 to

21 April 1938

Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of The yearSydney.

1960 It was the first endowed building theLove College and Official opening of the for Roland contained new classrooms as Gates. The ceremony wasseven performed well as who a private residence for the

by Mrs Roland Love was present with her son,Principal.

Mr Alan Love. The gates were originally part of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building in O’Connell Street, Sydney.

MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, – MISS KNOX AM, OBE, MA, FACE

FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920

19 March 1926Mid 1930s

The College motto “All’ Ultimo The first swimming pool is opened Uniform requirements from the Lavoro” and badge is first recorded

by His Excellency, themid-1930s.

Governorin the Magazine the Presbyterian General, of Lord Stonehaven.

At Ladies’ College The that timePymble. there were nofirst fences or badge used fromsheds.

1916 to 1929 dressing This poolbore served the school before its replacement a crest with thewell words Presbyterian in 1983 by the Jeanette Buckham Ladies’ College Sydney.

6 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

captained Australia’s first ever women’s Ashes win in 8 February 1916

to

2 August 1927

DR JOHN MARDEN, MA, LLD

HY I. KNOX, FACE

Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 students including 161 Boarders.

27The April 1956 Union for the Ex-Students’ College was also formed with the first Almost 3,000 people gather when the President (known then as convenor) Moderator General, Right Reverend Vicars.

FW Mollie Rolland opens and dedicates the

1936 England in 1948/1949. She was awarded an OAM in 1987 1927 1947

husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia from 1944 to 1947. After lunch at the Principal’s residence the Duchess received a tour of the school and greeted students along the Colonnade.

FOUNDING PRINCIPAL 1916-1920

36-1967

May 1926 • Mollie Dive OAM (1931), Head Prefect at Pymble in The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of

1916 19271931, represented Australia 1927 1947in hockey and cricket, and

The College, then Presbyterian Ladies’ College Pymble, opens its doors. The new College is jointly controlled by the same Council as Presbyterian Ladies’ College November 1946 Croydon and was also22 under the supervision and careVisit of the same from Her Royal Highness Principal, Dr John Marden. the Duchess of Gloucester, whose

to

to

26

8 February 1916

1937

PRINCIPAL 1936-1967 MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, AM, OBE, MA, FACE

7 June 1942

12 June 1958

The outbreak of World War II did

The first issue of the Ex-Students’ Principal Miss Knox is awarded the not have an immediate effect on magazine is published.

The of the British Empire (OBE) for Order the College steps were taken to magazine was published annually services to education and but for being the school. until November 1989 an when it wasprotect outstanding educationalist.

TheA bomb shelter established under considered by the committee thatwas whole school celebrates her award on the Colonnade the members would bethe better Queen’s and Birthday thisholiday. was first put to use by the informed by a smaller broadsheet,Boarders during an air raid on the published quarterly.

night of 7 June.

1937 1946 to

21 April 1938 Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of Sydney. It was the first endowed building for the College and contained seven new classrooms as well as a private residence for the Principal.

1947

22 November 1946 After a decade of planning, dreaming Visit from Her Royal Highness Duchess of Gloucester, whose and hard work, thethe Centenary Sports husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia to from 1944 to 1947. After lunch aton the Precinct was1960 officially opened Friday 22 10 February Principal’s residence the Duchess November 1946 received a tour of the school and 8 April by our oldest ex-student, greetedliving students along the Colonnade. to 103-year-old Miss Bertie Lloyd (1928), 25 February 1947 pictured left.

1937

19471967

A property known as ‘Ingleholme’ in Turramurra was opened as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Preparatory School for Girls with Miss Janet Pettit as the Mistressin-Charge. There were 69 girls ranging in age from four to nine years.

1967 1976

19561947

Visit from Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester, whose husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia from 1944 to 1947. After lunch at the Principal’s residence the Duchess received a tour of the school and greeted students along the Colonnade.

1956 to

27 April 1956

1947

Almost 3,000 people gather when the Moderator General, Right Reverend FW Rolland opens and dedicates the War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was built by F & C Turton and designed by architects, J Aubrey Kerr and Peter 27 April 1956 Kerr who ensured the design was in Almost 3,000 people gather when the keeping with the original buildings.

Moderator General, Right Reverend

20 April 1974

1977 1986

The Isabel McKinney Harrison Library opens. Isabel was a distinguished hockey player, Dux of the School, Head Prefect and winner of the Marden Prize.

The library was funded by a Commonwealth grant.

to

“The roll is complete for about 10 years except for those inroll theiscradle.

“The complete 15 April 1981 still foris about 10 years an extremely John Reid Building isThis opened by the Governor-General the Right except for those uncomfortable Hon. Sir Zelman Cowen.

The new stillSchool in the cradle. building enabled the Primary situation and we ask to centre most of its activities onean extremely Thisinis place, under the leadership Miss yourofunderstanding Rosalie Ramsay who was uncomfortable Mistressit is in-Charge since 1974.when situationnot andpossible we ask to your enrolunderstanding many when it is not possible newcomers to this to enrol many district from other newcomers to this suburbs.”

A Jacaranda tree is planted on Gloucester Lawn to commemorate

the visit of HRH the Duchess of The ceremony was also attended 25 February 1947 The year 1976 Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms. by the Chair of College Council, Mr Braith Williams; Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters; College Council; students; staff and guests.

Ingleholme closes and the pupils are transferred to the main school.

A Jacaranda tree is planted on Gloucester Lawn to commemorate the visit of HRH the Duchess of Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms.

“ Today marks one of the highlights of our Centenary year,” said Mrs Waters. “In the years leading up to this momentous event, our College community has watched as this vast facility has are Mid risen 1930s from the ground. We The year 1946 11 August 1949 7 June 1942 The year 1963 11 August 1949Uniting Church in The year 1966 Mid 1930s The year 1974 The year 1946 Uniform requirements from the Giant Stride was introduced and Dame Joan Hammond visits the Australia grateful for the financial investment byThe the College and our mid-1930s. quickly became popular with girls College and sings for the girls. The from Ingleholme and from the Junior concert is an outstanding success. philanthropically-minded Pymble community who have School. Metal hand pieces hung down from the central maypole by a loose chain. To get a grip, the upper or lower contributed to the project.” rung was held with one hand and the The outbreak of WorldDorothy War II did Knox House opened with not have an immediate11 effect on classrooms for teaching Biology the College but steps were taken to and Chemistry, including several protect the school. A bomb shelter The Council named laboratories. was established under the the building Colonnade in honour of Miss and this was first put toKnox use by the who was in her 27th year as Boarders during an airPrincipal. raid on the night of 7 June.

from the Ferguson announces The Giant Stride was introduced and The College celebratesUniform its 50th requirementsMr George mid-1930s. became popular with girls Anniversary in the same year that his retirement from thequickly College from Ingleholme Miss Dorothy Knox also marks her Council which he joined in 1957.

He and from the Junior School.

Metal hand pieces hung down 30 years as Principal at the College. had the unique distinction of being the central maypole by a loose When she commenced there were the father of a student from at Pymble chain.

To get a grip, the upper or lower 339 students. By 1966 there were for 31 years. Mr John Reid was rung was held 1,280. appointed as the new Chairman of with one hand and the the Council in 1975. chain with the other.

chain with the other.

Dame Joan Hammond visits the College and sings forDiscussions the girls. The on the proposal to unite concert is an outstanding success. Methodist and the Presbyterian, Congregational Churches to form the Uniting Church took place over several years. It was uncertain then which direction the College would go – the Continuing Church or the Uniting Church.

FW Rolland opens and dedicates the War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was built by F & C Turton and designed by architects, J Aubrey Kerr and Peter Kerr who ensured the design was in keeping with the original buildings.

197 19

19 19 196

t

The year

Official openi Gates. The ce

by Mrs Rolan The year 196 with her son, gatesopening were or Official of Royal Gates.

TheExchan ceremo O’Connell by in Mrs Roland Lov

with her son, Mr A gates were origina Royal Exchange As in O’Connell Stree

district from other – MISS KNOX suburbs.”

– MISS KNOX

PRINCIPAL 1968-1989 MISS JEANETTE BUCKHAM, AM, BA, DIP.ED, FACE

4 February 1954

4 February 1954 6 December 1983

Queen Elizabeth II opens the third Queen Elizabeth II opens the third Jeanette session of the 37th Parliament of Buckham Centre for session of the 37th Parliament of Physical Education is opened by NSW. Twenty were NSW.Pymble Twenty girls Pymble girls wereDame Leonie Kramer, DBE Professor invited to invited see thetoopening ofin State see the opening of State with Speech Day. conjunction Parliament.

Parliament.

This new facility was so named “in

recognition of the Principal’s untiring efforts in the promotion of healthy minds in healthy bodies in PLC”.

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 7

12 June 1

12 June 1958

Principal Mis

Principal Miss Kno Order of the B Order of the British services to ed services to educati outstandin an an outstanding edu whole school whole school celeb thethe Queen’s Birthd Queen’s B

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

Our Centenary Gala Concert brought down the house!

The Centenary Sports Precinct is a tangible link to our past.

Pymble was founded on a vision that health and vitality were essential to every girl achieving her potential, a vision that resonates today.

At Pymble, wellbeing is not an after-thought or an adjunct to academics; it holds equal place. Through the Aquatic and Fitness Centre, we now offer more opportunities to advance every girl’s physical wellbeing.

The Precinct includes the Braith Williams Aquatic and Fitness Centre, the re-developed Mollie Dive Field and car parking, Centenary Walkway, Centenary Artwork and Piazza.

“Unbelievable

– it took my breath away.”

– Miss Bertie Lloyd (1928)

That’s a fact!

• The new Pymble pool contains 2,594,000 litres of water, which equates to 13,706 bath tubs or 10,376,000 cups of coffee.

• The tiles would span 13.1 kilometres laid end to end, which is the distance between Avondale Golf Club and St Leonards Station.

1957

927 May 1926

56

ple gather when the al, Right Reverend and dedicates the apel. The Chapel was on and designed by ey Kerr and Peter the design was in riginal buildings.

complete 10 years those cradle. extremely table and we ask rstanding not possible any s to this om other

1957 1966 to

1937 1946 to

10 February 1960 A property known as ‘Ingleholme’ in Turramurra was opened as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Preparatory School for Girls with Miss Janet Pettit as the Mistressin-Charge. There were 69 girls ranging in age from four to nine years.

22 November 1946

1967 1976 to

Visit from Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester, whose husband HRH the Duke of Gloucester was Governor-General of Australia from 1944 to 1947. After lunch at the Principal’s residence the Duchess received a tour of the school and greeted students along the Colonnade.

1947 1956 to

1977

1947 20 April 1974 The Isabel McKinney Harrison Library opens. Isabel was a distinguished hockey player, Dux of the School, Head Prefect and winner of the Marden Prize.

The library was funded by a Commonwealth grant.

1977 1986 to

Almost 3,000 people gather when the Moderator General, Right Reverend FW Rolland opens and dedicates the War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was built by F & C Turton and designed by architects, J Aubrey Kerr and Peter Kerr who ensured the design was in keeping with the original buildings.

21 April 1938

The year 1976

25 February 1947

15 April 1981

Official opening of the Roland Love Gates. The ceremony was performed

by Mrs Roland Love who was present with her son, Mr Alan Love. The gates were originally part of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building in O’Connell Street, Sydney.

Gillespie-McIllrath House was opened by Dr Wallace, ViceChancellor of the University of Sydney. It was the first endowed building for the College and contained seven new classrooms as well as a private residence for the Principal.

Ingleholme closes and the pupils are transferred to the main school.

A Jacaranda tree is planted on Gloucester Lawn to commemorate the visit of HRH the Duchess of Gloucester on 22 November 1946.

To this day the tree is still rich in its purple blooms.

John Reid Building is opened by the Governor-General the Right Hon. Sir Zelman Cowen. The new building enabled the Primary School to centre most of its activities in one place, under the leadership of Miss Rosalie Ramsay who was Mistressin-Charge since 1974.

1957 1966

PRINCIPAL 1968-1989

MISS DOROTHY I. KNOX, AM, OBE, MA, FACE

MISS JEANETTE BUCKHAM, AM, BA, DIP.ED, FACE

12 June 1958

Principal Miss Knox is awarded the The first issue of the Ex-Students’ Order magazine is published.

The of the British Empire (OBE) for services to education and for being magazine was published annually outstanding until November 1989an when it was educationalist. The whole school considered by the committee that celebrates her award on the Queen’s Birthday holiday. the members would be better informed by a smaller broadsheet, published quarterly.

8 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

7 June 1942 The year 1963

The year 1966 Mid 1930s

Knox House opened with The outbreak of WorldDorothy War II did classrooms for teaching Biology not have an immediate11effect on and Chemistry, the College but steps were taken to including several laboratories. protect the school. A bomb shelter The Council named in honour of Miss was established underthe thebuilding Colonnade Knox was in her 27th year as and this was first put to use who by the Boarders during an airPrincipal. raid on the night of 7 June.

The College celebratesUniform its 50th requirements Mrfrom George the Ferguson announces The Giant Stride was introduced and Anniversary in the same year that his retirement from thequickly College mid-1930s. became popular with girls Miss Dorothy Knox also marks her Council which he joinedfrom in 1957.

He Ingleholme and from the Junior 30 years as Principal at the College. had the unique distinction of being School.

Metal hand pieces hung down When she commenced there were the father of a student at Pymble from the central maypole by a loose 339 students. By 1966 there were for 31 years. Mr John Reid was chain.

To get a grip, the upper or lower 1,280. appointed as the new Chairman of with one hand and the rung was held the Council in 1975. chain with the other.

The year 1974 The year 1946

Uniting Church in 11 August 1949 Australia Dame Joan Hammond visits the

College and sings forDiscussions the girls. The on the proposal to unite concert is an outstanding success. Methodist and the Presbyterian,

Congregational Churches to form the Uniting Church took place over several years. It was uncertain then which direction the College would go – the Continuing Church or the Uniting Church.

6 December 1983 4 February 1954 Jeanette Buckham Centre for Queen Elizabeth II opens the third Physical Education is opened by session of the 37th Parliament of NSW. Twenty PymbleProfessor girls wereDame Leonie Kramer, DBE in conjunction invited to see the opening of State with Speech Day. This new facility was so named “in Parliament. recognition of the Principal’s untiring efforts in the promotion of healthy minds in healthy bodies in PLC”.

Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Pymble is awarded to the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA) following in the footsteps of its ‘brother’ school, Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga.

1987 1996

A property known as ‘Ingleholme’ in Turramurra was opened as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Preparatory School for Girls with Miss Janet Pettit as the Mistressin-Charge. There were 69 girls ranging in age from four to nine years.

Official opening of James Kelso Sports Field and Pavilion with Liane Tooth, B.Ed, OAM (1979) performing the official opening.

An exhibition match was played between the Pymble First Eleven Hockey Team and the IGSSA Representative Team.

Official opening of the Roland Love Gates. The ceremony was performed

by Mrs Roland Love who was present with her son, Mr Alan Love. The gates were originally part of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building in O’Connell Street, Sydney.

when it is not possible to enrol many newcomers to this district from other suburbs.”

PRINCIPAL 1936-1967

1957

More than 1700 guests assembled at Sydney Opera House’s Concert Hall on Sunday 19 June to witness the performance of a lifetime: Aurora – Dawn26of a New Century Centenary April 1977 10 February 1960 27 April 1956 Gala Concert. Co-compered by former Pymble student and Channel 7 newsreader, Melissa Doyle AM (1987) and ABC to to Classic FM presenter, Guy Noble the concert featured 600 performers of all ages in a variety of musical performances. present students, staff and parents20shared the September 1990 The year 1960 “The roll is completePast and for about 10 years unique opportunity to perform specially commissioned except for those still in the cradle. works from renowned Australian composers, Luke Byrne and This is an extremely uncomfortable Matthew Hindson AM. The commissions were possible due situation and we ask to the generosity of the Music Support Group. your understanding

The year 1960

– MISS KNOX

April 1931

The Presbyterian Ladies’ College of Croydon and Pymble separate and each becomes governed by their own Council. At this time, Pymble had 415 students including 161 Boarders.

The Ex-Students’ Union for the College was also formed with the first President (known then as convenor) Mollie Vicars.

1967

1937

1987

1967 1976 to

199

1967 4 December 1987 A historic occasion as 2,300 students and staff gather in the Gloucester Quadrangle for a whole school photograph. Principal Miss Buckham goes up in a cherry picker. “Whatever details of their schooling may fade from the girls’ memories, they are unlikely to forget the day Miss Buckham went up in a cherry picker.”

20 April 1974

1997 2006 to

The Isabel McKinney Harrison Library opens. Isabel was a distinguished hockey player, Dux of the School, Head Prefect and winner of the Marden Prize.

The library was funded by a Commonwealth grant.

197 198

to

The year 1976

The year 1997

15 April 1981

Ingleholme closes and the pupils are transferred to the main school.

Pymble wins the Tildesley Tennis Shield Tournament for the first time in the 77 year history of the event.

John Reid Building the Governor-Gene Hon. Sir Zelman Co building enabled th to centre most of it place, under the lea Rosalie Ramsay wh in-Charge since 19

28 November 1983

The Concert, which was two years in the planning, also featured a new arrangement of the Pymble School Song by composer Dan Walker.

First Jacaranda Day service is held 40 years after the Jacaranda tree was planted to commemorate a visit from the Duchess of Gloucester.

Jacaranda Day was an initiative

by Mrs R Ram, a science teacher at the College, who wanted to celebrate the existence of beauty in a changing world.

– MISS KNOX

“ Tonight we are celebrating our 100th birthday with the greatest 4 August 1977 8 February 1991 12 June The year 1963Sabina The year 1966 gift of all,1958 music,” said Director of Music, Mrs Turner.

College Principal Miss Knox isThe awarded thebecomes known as Pymble Ladies’ Order of the British Empire (OBE) forCollege. A letter is sentfor to all parents from Mr JB Reid, services to education and being ChairmanThe of Council, “Following an outstanding educationalist. approval received whole school celebrates her award on from the Uniting Church to our recommendation, the the Queen’s Birthday holiday.

College, will from 4th August, 1977, be known as Pymble Ladies’ College.”

Each year in November the whole school assembles on Gloucester Lawn around the purple blossomed Jacaranda tree for a service of College celebrates itsThe 75thCollege celebrates its 50th Dorothy Knox HouseThe opened with thanksgiving and to present anniversary.

A book titledAnniversary ‘This is 11 classrooms for teaching Biology in the same year that donations to various charities.

Pymble College’ was published pay Knox also marks her and Chemistry, including several Miss to Dorothy tribute to the 75 years since opening laboratories. The Council named 30 the years as Principal at the College. ofof Presbyterian Ladies’ College, the building in honour Miss When Pymble. she commenced there were Knox who was in her The 27thbook yearwas as written by Margaret 339 students. By 1966 there were Coleman OAM (1945) and1,280. launched by Principal.

Dame Joan Hammond DBE CMG (1928).

“ It is a showcase of the outstanding musical talent at Pymble and a celebration of who we were, who we are and who we strive to be in the future.”

The year 1974 Mr George Ferguson announces his retirement from the College Council which he joined in 1957. He had the unique distinction of being the father of a student at Pymble for 31 years. Mr John Reid was appointed as the new Chairman of the Council in 1975.

PRINCIPAL 1987-2007

PRINCIPAL 1968-1989

MRS GILLIAN MOORE, AO, MA, DIP. ED, TC, MACE, MACEA

MISS JEANETTE BUCKHAM, AM, BA, DIP.ED, FACE

March 1992

Uniting ChurchThe in year 2000

Celebration of 75 yearsAustralia of Boarding Official opening of the new at the College. The firstDiscussions meal was on the proposal Preparatory to uniteSchool. The purposeserved in the Boarders’the Dining Hall built precinct for Kindergarten to Presbyterian, Methodist and on 1 March 1917. Prior Congregational to this the Yearto2form provides Churches the creative, engaging Boarders ate in the Marden House and visually exciting learning spaces Uniting Church took place over several Common Room, at times withItDr years. was uncertainthat thencapture which each girl’s interests. and Mrs Marden. direction the College would go – the Continuing Church or the Uniting Church.

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 9

6 December

Jeanette Buckham Physical Education Professor Dame Leo in conjunction with This new facility wa recognition of the P efforts in the promo minds in healthy bo

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations “There was a great spirit in the Chapel,” said Mrs Cranney. “ It was a lovely service and everyone was so happy to be there to celebrate the College and share their school-day memories.”

In honour of the Centenary, the service ended with a rousing rendition of the School Song.

Following the service, many of the congregation – including those who attended the Pymble Back to Boarding Weekend sleepover the previous evening (see article over page) – stayed on to enjoy a special Centenary Luncheon event. The ladies enjoyed champagne and canapés on the

lawn before moving into the Main Hall where Reverend Aynsley said grace before a delicious buffet lunch. Our ex-students enjoyed catching up with old friends from their school era, reliving amusing anecdotes, cheeky escapades and treasured family connections.

All in all, it was a very special day for the College and exstudents from throughout the decades. “ I am deeply grateful for this wonderful and special experience we had today as well as every time we meet up,” said Mrs Annie Corbett (Wong, 1992). “I am sure we will all treasure these moments forever.”

Hundreds gather at Commemoration Day Service and Centenary Luncheon 1977

947

74

27 April 1956

nney Harrison abel was a ckey player, l, Head Prefect e Marden Prize. unded by a grant.

1977 1986 to

15 April 1981

1957 1966

Almost 3,000 people gather when the Moderator General, Right Reverend FW Rolland opens and dedicates the War Memorial Chapel. The Chapel was built by F & C Turton and designed by architects, J Aubrey Kerr and Peter Kerr who ensured the design was in keeping with the original buildings.

“The roll is complete

for by about 10 years John Reid Building is opened the Governor-General theexcept Right for those Hon. Sir Zelman Cowen. The new stillSchool in the cradle. building enabled the Primary to centre most of its activities onean extremely Thisinis place, under the leadership of Miss Rosalie Ramsay who was uncomfortable Mistressin-Charge since 1974. situation and we ask

to

26 April 1977 Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Pymble is awarded to the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA) following in the footsteps of its ‘brother’ school, Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga.

The year 1960

28 November 1983 First Jacaranda Day service is held 40 years after the Jacaranda tree was planted to commemorate a visit from the Duchess of Gloucester.

Jacaranda Day was an initiative

by Mrs R Ram, a science teacher at the College, who wanted to celebrate the existence of beauty in a changing world.

– MISS KNOX

E BUCKHAM, , FACE

6 December 1983 4 February 1954

12 June 1958 4 August 1977

Jeanette Buckham Centre for Queen Elizabeth II opens the third Physical Education is opened by session of the 37th Parliament of NSW. Twenty PymbleProfessor girls wereDame Leonie Kramer, DBE in conjunction invited to see the opening of State with Speech Day. This new facility was so named “in Parliament. recognition of the Principal’s untiring efforts in the promotion of healthy minds in healthy bodies in PLC”.

College Principal Miss Knox isThe awarded thebecomes known as Pymble Ladies’ Order of the British Empire (OBE) forCollege. A letter is sentfor to all parents from Mr JB Reid, services to education and being Chairman of Council, “Following an outstanding educationalist.

The approval received whole school celebrates her award on from the Uniting Church to our recommendation, the the Queen’s Birthday holiday.

College, will from 4th August, 1977, be known as Pymble Ladies’ College.”

10 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

1987

1967

Attendance at this year’s Commemoration Day Service in the War Memorial Chapel was at an all-time high, as approximately 250 members of the Pymble community gathered to 4 December 1987 10 February 1960 20 April 1974 celebrate 100 years of College history. The uplifting service, whichtowas officiated by Reverend Lorenzo Rodriguez Torres to to and Reverend Punam Bent, was attended by ex-students from 1936 to 2015 as well as Chair of College Council, Mr Braith Principal, Vicki Waters, Uniting Church in The year 1997 20 SeptemberWilliams, 1990 TheMrs year 1976 Australia’s Reverend Stephen Aynsley and Ex-Students’ Union (ESU) President, Mrs Katrina Corcoran (Hum, 1987).

1987 1996

A property known as ‘Ingleholme’ in Turramurra was opened as Presbyterian Ladies’ College Preparatory School for Girls with Miss Janet Pettit as the Mistressin-Charge. There were 69 girls ranging in age from four to nine years.

Official opening of James Kelso Sports Field and Pavilion with Liane Tooth, B.Ed, OAM (1979) performing the official opening.

An exhibition match was played between the Pymble First Eleven Hockey Team and the IGSSA Representative Team.

Official opening of the Roland Love Gates. The ceremony was performed

by Mrs Roland Love who was present with her son, Mr Alan Love. The gates were originally part of the Royal Exchange Assurance Building in O’Connell Street, Sydney.

your understanding when it is not possible to enrol many newcomers to this district from other suburbs.”

68-1989

1957

1967 1976

A historic occasion as 2,300 students and staff gather in the Gloucester Quadrangle for a whole school photograph. Principal Miss Buckham goes up in a cherry picker. “Whatever details of their schooling may fade from the girls’ memories, they are unlikely to forget the day Miss Buckham went up in a cherry picker.”

1997 2006

The Isabel McKinney Harrison Library opens. Isabel was a distinguished hockey player, Dux of the School, Head Prefect and winner of the Marden Prize.

The library was funded by a Commonwealth grant.

Pymble wins the Tildesley Tennis Shield Tournament for the first time in the 77 year history of the event.

Ingleholme closes and the pupils are transferred to the main school.

The theme of the day was the College values of Care, Courage, Integrity, Respect and Responsibility. Ex-students Mrs Philippa Graham (Myers, 1969) and Fiona Roughley (2001) spoke eloquently about how they drew on these PRINCIPAL 1987-2007 values in good times and in times of conflict, to help them MRS GILLIAN MOORE, AO, MA, DIP. ED, TC, MACE, MACEA make decisions and shape their lives.

Each year in November the whole school assembles on Gloucester year 1963 8 February 1991 The year 1966 Lawn around the purpleThe blossomed Jacaranda tree for a service of College 75thCollege celebrates its 50th Dorothy Knox House The opened withcelebrates itsThe thanksgiving and to present anniversary.

A book titledAnniversary ‘This is 11 classrooms for teaching Biology in the same year that donations to various charities.

Pymble College’ was published to pay Knox also marks her and Chemistry, including several Miss Dorothy tribute to the 75 years since opening laboratories. The Council named 30 the years as Principal at the College. ofof Presbyterian Ladies’ College, the building in honour Miss When Pymble. she commenced there were The book Margaret Knox who was in her 27th yearwas as written by 339 students. By 1966 there were Coleman OAM (1945) and launched by Principal.

1,280.

Dame Joan Hammond DBE CMG (1928).

Uniting ChurchThe in year 2000 The year 1974 As per tradition, the readings were delivered by March ESU1992 Scholars, Australia Emily Ainsworth (Year 11) and Madeleine Payne (Year 12). The ESU Choir, under the leadership of Mrs Jillian Cranney (Stacy, 1972) performed beautifully.

Mr George Ferguson announces his retirement from the College Council which he joined in 1957. He had the unique distinction of being the father of a student at Pymble for 31 years. Mr John Reid was appointed as the new Chairman of the Council in 1975.

1997 1977 1986 to

28 March 2001

26 April 1977

Opening of the Conde Library in the Secondary School. Former Gillespie-McIllrath House was extended with a new wing that is respectful of the original building and heritage architecture. The Library was named in recognition of Mr John Conde AO.

2007 2016 to

Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Pymble is awarded to the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA) following in the footsteps of its ‘brother’ school, Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga.

1987 1996 to

201

1987 The year 2011

4 December 1987

2016 2020

Change of College structure with the introduction of five separate schools: Preparatory School, Junior School, Middle School, Upper School and Senior School. Each School has its own distinct precinct within the campus and a Head and Deputy Head of School.

to

A historic occasion as 2,300 students and staff gather in the Gloucester Quadrangle for a whole school photograph. Principal Miss Buckham goes up in a cherry picker. “Whatever details of their schooling may fade from the girls’ memories, they are unlikely to forget the day Miss Buckham went up in a cherry picker.”

199 200

to

15 April 1981

The year 2009

20 September 1990

People and Culture

The year 199

John Reid Building is opened by the Governor-General the Right Hon. Sir Zelman Cowen. The new building enabled the Primary School to centre most of its activities in one place, under the leadership of Miss Rosalie Ramsay who was Mistressin-Charge since 1974.

Expansion of the School House system to create a stronger sense of spirit, identity and participation along with increased leadership opportunities. Ingleholme, Thomas, Wylie, Bennett and Hammond are added to the original Houses of Marden, Goodlet and Lang.

Official opening of James Kelso Sports Field and Pavilion with Liane Tooth, B.Ed, OAM (1979) performing the official opening.

An exhibition match was played between the Pymble First Eleven Hockey Team and the IGSSA Representative Team.

Professional teaching and operational staff work together at Pymble to create a value-based educational culture. Staff embark on their own learning journeys as they help shape our unique, worldclass learning environment.

Pymble wins the Ti Shield Tournament in the 77 year histo

PRINCIPAL 1968-1989 MISS JEANETTE BUCKHAM, AM, BA, DIP.ED, FACE

Celebration of 75 years of Boarding Official opening of the new at the College. The first meal was on the proposal Preparatory Discussions to uniteSchool. The purposeserved in the Boarders’the Dining Hall built precinct for Kindergarten to Presbyterian, Methodist and on 1 March 1917. PriorCongregational to this the Year provides Churches to2form the creative, engaging Boarders ate in the Marden House and over visually exciting learning spaces Uniting Church took place several Common Room, at times with years.

It Dr was uncertain that thencapture which each girl’s interests. and Mrs Marden. direction the College would go – the Continuing Church or the Uniting Church.

2007

1977

3 June 1998 6 December 1983 Opening Jeanette Buckham Centre for of the Mollie Dive Field, named after Physical Education is opened by a distinguished exwho excelled at both hockey Professor Dame Leoniestudent Kramer, DBE and cricket in conjunction with Speech Day. for Pymble and for Australia.

The Mollie Dive Field has This new facility was so named “in since been redeveloped to provide recognition of the Principal’s untiring extensive underground parking as efforts in the promotion of healthy part of the Centenary Sports Precinct. minds in healthy bodies in PLC”.

17 September 2005

28 November 1983

Official opening of the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts.

The GMCPA is situated north of the David Blackwell Music School and links to the Music School at all levels. The auditorium has a 750-seat capacity and orchestra pit that can accommodate more than 25 players.

First Jacaranda Day service is held 40 years after the Jacaranda tree was planted to commemorate a visit from the Duchess of Gloucester.

Jacaranda Day was an initiative

by Mrs R Ram, a science teacher at the College, who wanted to celebrate the existence of beauty in a changing world.

Each year in November the whole school assembles on Gloucester 4 August 1977 29 January 2011Lawn around the purple blossomed Jacaranda tree for a service of Opening The College becomes known asof the Senior School Centre, thanksgiving and to present Kate Mason Pymble Ladies’ College.

A letter is Building. The building donations to various charities. sent to all parents fromincorporates Mr JB Reid,flexible educational facilities, cutting-edge information Chairman of Council, “Following approval received fromtechnology, the Unitinga 260-seat lecture theatre, video-conferencing facilities and space Church to our recommendation, the for students College, will from 4th August, 1977,to study and connect with each other. be known as Pymble Ladies’ College.”

PRINCIPAL 2007-PRESENT

PRINCIPAL 1987-2007

MRS VICKI L WATERS, MSCHM, B ED, DIPT, MACE, MACEL, GAICD

MRS GILLIAN MOORE, AO, MA, DIP. ED, TC, MACE, MACEA

8 February 1991June 2014

Community

The College celebrates Building its 75th commences on a significant anniversary. A book titled ‘This is capital works project known to aspay the Centenary Sports Pymble College’ was published Precinct.

The Precinct is planned tribute to the 75 years since the opening open in 2016 as part of Pymble’s of Presbyterian Ladies’ to College, Pymble. centenary The book was written by Margaret celebrations.

Coleman OAM (1945) and launched by Dame Joan Hammond DBE CMG (1928).

Pymble extends far beyond its Celebration of 75 years of Boarding gates. Global, multi-generational at the College. The first meal was and loyal, Pymble community served in the Boarders’ Dining Hall members support eachon other 1 March 1917. Prior to this the and the College. Enhanced Boarders ate in the Marden House communication – in allCommon of its forms Room, at times with Dr – supports this strength. and Mrs Marden.

March 1992

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 11

The year 200

Official opening of t Preparatory School built precinct for Ki Year 2 provides crea and visually excitin that capture each g

Centenary celebrations

Former Boarders return for sleepover

An unforgettable weekend recalling old memories – and making new ones – was had when several of our exBoarders returned to the College for the Back to Boarding Weekend to celebrate 100 years of Boarding at Pymble.

Boarders from 1950 to 1989 were welcomed back to Pymble by Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters, Boarding Head Prefect, Eleanor Kierath (Year 12) and Boarding Deputy Head Prefect, Eliza Whiteley (Year 12) before sharing a barbecue lunch in the sun on Marden Lawn which, much to their delight, was no longer “out of bounds”.

1997

1997 2006

1997

to

r 1987

1997 2006

n as 2,300 students n the Gloucester whole school cipal Miss Buckham y picker. “Whatever hooling may fade mories, they are the day Miss in a cherry picker.” ymble wins the Tildesley Tennis

The year 1997

28 March 2001 Opening of the Conde Library in the Secondary School. Former Gillespie-McIllrath House was extended with a new wing that is respectful of the original building and28 heritage architecture.

The March 2001 Library was named in recognition Opening the Conde of Mr John of Conde AO. Library in the Secondary School. Former Gillespie-McIllrath House was extended with a new wing that is respectful of the original building and heritage architecture. The Library was named in recognition of Mr John Conde AO.

to

hield Tournament for the first time n the 77 year history of the event.

The year 1997 Pymble wins the Tildesley Tennis Shield Tournament for the first time in the 77 year history of the event.

17 September 2005 Official opening of the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing 17 September 2005 Arts.

The GMCPA is situated north of opening of the Gillian the Official David Blackwell Music School Moore Centre for Performing Arts. andThe links to the Music GMCPA is situatedSchool north ofat all levels.

The auditorium hasSchool a 750-seat the David Blackwell Music and links the Music School at all capacity andtoorchestra pit that can levels. The auditorium has25 a 750-seat accommodate more than players.

87-2007

capacity and orchestra pit that can accommodate more than 25 players.

MOORE, AO, MA, ACE, MACEA

The year 2000

2

Centenary celebrations

The year 2000

Official opening of the new 5 years of Boarding Official opening of the new reparatory School. The purposehe first meal was Preparatory School. The purposeuilt precinct for Kindergarten to for Kindergarten to rders’ Dining Hall built precinct ear provides engaging Prior2to this the creative, Year 2 provides creative, engaging he House and visually exciting learning spaces ndMarden visually exciting learning spaces at times with Dr that capture each girl’s interests. hat capture each girl’s interests.

12 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

3 June 1998

3 June 1998

Opening of the Mollie Dive Field, Opening of the Mollie Dive Field, named after a distinguished exnamed after a distinguished exstudent who excelled both hockey student who at excelled at both hockey and cricketand forcricket Pymble for and for forand Pymble Australia.

The Mollie Divehas Field has Australia. The Mollie Dive Field been redeveloped to provide since been since redeveloped to provide extensive underground parking as extensive underground parking as part of the Centenary Sports Precinct. part of the Centenary Sports Precinct.

After lunch, guests enjoyed a guided tour of the campus conducted by current Year 9 Boarders, Onyi Nwamadi and Victoria Judson. Afternoon tea was hosted in the Heritage Centre by Alumni Relations Manager, Mrs Katrina Corcoran before the evening kicked off with a cocktail party in the David Macfarlane Centre, hosted by Director of Boarding, Mrs Deanne Elliott.

The ladies bunked down in Goodlet House for the night, safe in the knowledge that they could talk until the early hours if they wished! “ So many memories flooded back as I walked along the corridors and checked out the bedrooms which I shared with girls who are now my lifelong friends,” said Mrs Margaret Walker (Stokes, 1957).

The year 2011 4 December 1987

19872007

2007 2016

2007

19972016 199720162016

1987

“ So much has changed for the better. The Houses are to warm, welcoming and have a friendly ambience – so important for homesick Boarders during their first weeks away from home.” to School, Middle School, Upper School and Senior School. Each School has its own distinct precinct within the campus and a Head and Deputy Head of School.

Expansion of the School House system to create a stronger sense of spirit, identity and participation with increased leadership Thealong year 2009 opportunities. Ingleholme, Thomas, Expansion the School House Wylie,ofBennett and Hammond are system to create a stronger sense added to theand original Houses of of spirit, identity participation Marden, Goodlet and Lang. along with increased leadership

fabulous it almost took my breath away, especially when I remember diving for the brick in dark, murky water on numerous occasions in the original 1925 Nancy Jobson pool!,” Mrs Walker said.

opportunities. Ingleholme, Thomas, Wylie, Bennett and Hammond are added to the original Houses of Marden, Goodlet and Lang.

to

to

Centenary reflections

1997 2006 Tennis racquet

to be one shared in community.

Our four signposts shown here will enable us to prepare our girls for the future, with the confidence, skills and integrity to hold firm to their values.

The year 1997 People and Culture

•

Opening of the Senior School Centre,

Opening of the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building. The building Kate Mason Building. The building incorporates educational incorporates flexibleflexible educational facilities, cutting-edge information facilities, cutting-edge information technology, a 260-seat lecture theatre, technology, a 260-seat lecture theatre, video-conferencing facilitiesfacilities and spaceand space video-conferencing for students to study and connect with for students to study and connect with each other.

each other.

June 2014

Building commences on a

• One flannel dressing gown in the 77 year history of the event.

The year 2000Sustainability

Pymble extends far beyond its

schools: Preparatory School, Junior School, Middle School, Upper School and Senior School. Each School has its own distinct precinct within the campus and a Head and Deputy Head of School.

2016

17 September 2005

Professional t operational st at Pymble to c

MRS VICKI L 2007-PRESENT WATERS, MSCHM, B PRINCIPAL ED,MRS DIPT, MACE, MACEL, GAICD VICKI L WATERS, MSCHM, B ED, DIPT, MACE, MACEL, GAICD

Sustainability

Personalised 29 Education January 2011

We are committed to embedding

The signpost of personalised Opening of the Senior School Centre, Opening of the Senior School Centre, education ensures every PymbleBuilding. The Kate Mason building Kate Mason Building. The building student will be individually known, incorporates flexible educational incorporates flexible educational guided and challenged in ways that facilities, cutting-edge information facilities, cutting-edge information technology, a 260-seat lecture theatre, suit her individual skills, abilities technology, a 260-seat lecture theatre, video-conferencing facilities and space and interests. video-conferencing facilities and space for students to study and connect with for students to study and connect each other. with each other.

part of the Centenary Sports Precinct.

to

PRINCIPAL 2007-PRESENT

capacity and orchestra pit that can accommodate more than 25 players.

3 June 1998 Personalised Education

202

People an

on theirteachin own l Professional they help operational staffsha wor classtolearning at Pymble create a educational culture. on their own learnin they help shape our u class learning enviro

Official opening of the Gillian September 2005 Moore Centre for Performing 17 Arts.

The GMCPA is situated north Official of opening of the Gillian the David Blackwell Music School Moore Centre for Performing Arts. and links to the Music School The at all GMCPA is situated north of the David Blackwell Music School levels. The auditorium has a 750-seat and links to the Music School at all capacity and orchestra pit that can levels. The auditorium has a 750-seat accommodate more than 25 players.

Celebration of 75 years of BoardingPymble extends Official opening of theof new Opening of the Mollie Dive Field, Celebration 75 years of Boarding Official opening of theWe new Opening of the Mollie Dive Field, Building commences on a far beyond its are committed to embedding The signpost of personalised significant capital works gates.

Global, multi-generational high-level sustainable at project the College. The first meal was gates. Global, Preparatory The purposenamed after a distinguished ex- every atSchool. the College.

The first meal was Preparatory School. The purposenamed after apractices distinguished exsignificant capital works project multi-generational high-level sustainable practices education ensures Pymble known as the Centenaryserved Sportsin the Boarders’ Dining Halland loyal, Pymble loyal, Pymble in every areastudent of known, Pymble life – at inboth hockey built precinct for Kindergarten to who excelled atwill both served in theand Boarders’ Dining Hallcommunity built precinct for Kindergarten to of Pymble lifestudent who excelled known as the Centenary Sports community in every area – in student behockey individually on 1 March 1917.

Prior tosupport this the each other Year 2 provides creative, engaging operational and and cricket and for Precinct.

The Precinct is members educational, operational and wider Precinct. The Precinct is planned other educational, guided and challenged in ways thatfor Pymble onplanned 1 March 1917. Prior to this the members support Year 2each provides creative, engaging andwider cricket for Pymble and for Boarders in the Marden House spaces Australia.

Dive Field to open in 2016 as part Pymble’s Enhanced community settings – as the way to The Mollie suit her individual skills, abilitiesThe to of open in 2016 as part of Pymble’s and the College.

Enhancedand visually exciting learning community settings – asMollie the way to has Boarders ate in the Marden House and the College. and visually excitingate learning spaces Australia.

Dive Field has Common Room, at times with Dr– in all of its thatforms capture each girl’s interests. been centenary celebrations. in all of its forms protect and guide our future. and interests. centenary celebrations.Common Room, at times with Dr communication communication protect and since guide ourredeveloped future. to provide that –capture each girl’s interests. since been redeveloped to provide extensive underground parking as – supports this strength.and Mrs Marden.

– supports this strength. and Mrs Marden. extensive underground parking as part of the Centenary Sports Precinct.

20 20 201

People and Cu educational c

opportunities. Ingleholme, Thomas, Wylie, Bennett and Hammond are added to the original Houses of Marden, Goodlet and Lang.

• A brush and two combs

March 1992

Change of College structure with the introduction of five separate schools: Preparatory School, Junior School, Middle School, Upper School and Senior School. Each Thehas year 2011distinct precinct School its own within theofcampus and a Head Change College structure withand Deputy Head of School. the introduction of five separate

Expansion of the School House system to create a stronger sense of spirit, identity and participation The year 2009 along with increased leadership opportunities. Ingleholme, Thomas, Expansion of the School House Wylie, Bennett and Hammond system to are create a stronger sense added to the original Houses of spirit,of identity and participation along Marden, Goodlet and Lang. with increased leadership

• One serviette ring

Community

The year 2011

2007

to

The year 2009

Pymble wins the Tildesley Tennis operational staff work together Shield Tournament for the first time at Pymble to create a value-based in the 77 year history of the event. educational culture. Staff embark People and Culture The year 1997 on their own learning journeys as Professional teaching and Pymble wins the Tildesley Tennis they help shape our unique, worldoperational staff work together Shield Tournament for the first time at Pymble to create a value-based class learning environment. educational culture. Staff embark on their own learning journeys as they help shape our unique, worldclass learning environment.

2007 20162007

Gillespie-McIllrath House was extended with a new wing that is respectful of the original building and heritage architecture. The Library was named in recognition of Mr John Conde AO.

Collegetowith the following items:

photograph. Principal Miss Buckham goes up in a cherry picker. “Whatever details of their schooling may fade from the girls’ memories, they are unlikely to forget the day Miss Buckham went up in a cherry teaching picker.”

Professional and

• A Presbyterian Church Our Back to Boarding guests attended the hymnary Commemoration Day Service in the War Memorial Chapel PRINCIPAL 2007-PRESENT PRINCIPAL 1989-2007 • Music portfolio the next day, followed by the Centenary Luncheon in the MRS AO, VICKI L WATERS, MSCHM,PRINCIPAL B MRS GILLIAN MOORE, MA, PRINCIPAL 2007-PRESENT 1989-2007 ED, DIPT, MACE, MACEL, GAICD ED, TC, MACE, MACEA MRSDIP. VICKI L WATERS, MSCHM, B MRS GILLIAN MOORE, AO, MA, Main Hall before they drove through those familiar gates DIP. ED, TC, MACE, MACEA ED, DIPT, MACE, MACEL, GAICD one more time and made their way June back home.

29 January 2011 2014 March 1992 The year 2000Community 3 June 1998

29 January 2011

Towards 2020

2020 In 1916, Boarders were to arrive at the

2006 2007 2016 2016 2020 “ The new Braith Williams Aquatic and Fitness Centre was so

The year 2009

1997

28 March 2001

As in all aspects of Pymble life, our Opening of the Conde Library journeyintowards 2020 will continue the Secondary School. Former to be one shared in community.

Gillespie-McIllrath House Ourwas four signposts shown here will extended with a new wing that us is to prepare our girls for the enable to respectful of the original building future, the confidence, skills Towards 2020 28with March 2001 and heritage architecture. andThe integrity to hold firm to their As in all aspects of Pymble life, ourLibrary was named in recognition Opening of the Conde Library in values. journey towards 2020 will continue of Mr John Conde AO. the Secondary School. Former

Change of College structure with

A historic occasion as the 2,300 students of five separate introduction and staff gather in theschools: Gloucester Preparatory School, Junior Quadrangle for a whole school School, Middle School, Upper photograph. Principal Miss Buckham School and Senior School. Each to goes up in a cherry picker. “Whatever School has Thedetails yearof2011 their schooling may fadeits own distinct precinct 4 December 1987 within from the girls’ memories, theythe arecampus and a Head and Change of College structure Deputy with A historic occasion as 2,300 students Head of School. unlikely to forget the day Miss the introduction of five separate and staff gather in the Gloucester Buckham went up in a cherry schools: Preparatory School, Junior picker.”

Quadrangle for a whole school

2007

29 January 2011

June 2014 June 2014

Building commences on a Building commences on a significant capital capital works works project significant project known asknown the Centenary Sports as the Centenary Sports The Precinct is planned Precinct.Precinct.

The Precinct is planned open as in 2016 of Pymble’s to open into2016 partasofpart Pymble’s celebrations. centenarycentenary celebrations.

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 13

Commun

Community

Pymble exten

Pymble extends far b gates.

Global, gates.

Global, multiand loyal, and loyal, PymblePym co members support ea members sup and the Enh andCollege. the Colle communication – in communicati – supports this stren

– supports th

011

ge structure with n of five separate atory School, Junior School, Upper or School. Each wn distinct precinct us and a Head and School.

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

Pymble, the Musical!

History came to life when our Preparatory and Junior School students took to the stage for stirring matinee and evening performances of the Kindergarten – Year 6 Centenary Musical, Blackwatch Tales: 100 Years of Memories and Recollections.

The bespoke musical featured 650 students ranging in age from 5 to 12 years and was written by former Pymble Preparatory School teacher, Ms Amanda Stelcova. It was commissioned by Director of Music, Mrs Sabina Turner, who envisaged bringing together all of our Kindergarten to Year 6 students in a meaningful performance to mark the occasion of our College’s 100th birthday.

Blackwatch Tales was based on facts, stories, events, anecdotes and photographs from the College archives.

Those moments in time formed the framework of the show and were linked by the central character of The Maiden on the Lion within the College crest.

“ Having been on every Pymble girl’s hat, badge and blazer since the College began, The Maiden on the Lion has been the single witness to all of the past 100 years,” said Ms Stelcova. “So I decided to have her dismount the lion, step out from the Crest and come to life in all her glory to take us back in time and narrate the show.”

A joyful celebration of the life and times of Pymble, Blackwatch Tales was imbued with meaning and significance and gave our youngest students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in an event that will be recorded forever in College history. It also offered a host of learning opportunities, with the experience having been built into the class curriculum over the past few months.

The producers are grateful for the assistance of the many parents who worked behind the scenes to create props and costumes and to assist during rehearsals and performances, and for the generosity of the Music Support Group in funding the commission.

2016 Towards 2020

2016 2020

As in all aspects of Pymble life, our journey towards 2020 will continue to be one shared in community.

Our four signposts shown here will enable us to prepare our girls for the future, with the confidence, skills and integrity to hold firm to their values.

to

People and Culture Professional teaching and operational staff work together at Pymble to create a value-based educational culture. Staff embark on their own learning journeys as they help shape our unique, worldclass learning environment.

07-PRESENT

WATERS, MSCHM, B E, MACEL, GAICD

Community

Sustainability

Personalised Education

Pymble extends far beyond its gates. Global, multi-generational and loyal, Pymble community members support each other and the College. Enhanced communication – in all of its forms – supports this strength.

We are committed to embedding high-level sustainable practices in every area of Pymble life – in educational, operational and wider community settings – as the way to protect and guide our future.

The signpost of personalised education ensures every Pymble student will be individually known, guided and challenged in ways that suit her individual skills, abilities and interests.

14 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 15

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

Memories are made of this “ I am grateful for this marvellous history which unites us, and which means so much to us as a community. Let’s raise a toast to our past, present and future.

To Pymble!”

– Mrs Vicki Waters

16 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our Centenary year celebrations than with a long, lingering lunch for 250 friends of Pymble, hosted in Term 4 at the College, around Marden Lawn, the lawn named after our founder.

The event brought together past and present College Council members, staff and parents as well as ex-students from near and far, including Pymble’s living treasure, Miss Bertie Lloyd (1928), who at 103 years of age is older than the College.

The Mediterranean-themed luncheon included five courses, fine wine, and roving entertainment in the form of a trio of Italian musicians who had guests up and dancing throughout the day. Guests then gathered on couches on the lawns with a coffee or gelato from the Gelato Bar, reluctant to end another memorable event in College history.

THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 17

Centenary celebrations

Centenary celebrations

Celebrating our sports stars Our Centenary year celebrations culminated with our inaugural Centenary Sports Awards Dinner, fittingly held in the Jeanette Buckham Centre for Physical Education.

It was also fitting we launched these awards in our Centenary year, when we have reflected on our origins and acknowledged the people, philosophy and traditions that have all contributed to make Pymble the leading school it is today.

It was wonderful to come together on Friday 4 November, and celebrate the admirable dedication, hard work, sportsmanship and successes of our highestachieving athletes across 25 competitive sports. Awards presented to students on the night included Athlete of the Year, All-rounder of the Year, Team of the Year and Representative Team of the Year.

Joining us at the awards were journalist and television presenter, Cameron Williams, and guest speaker, Melinda Gainsford-Taylor, an international sportswoman and three-time Olympian. Some of Pymble’s very own Olympians also attended, including Year 12 student, Brittany O’Brien, and exstudents, Genevieve Horton (2012) and Chloe Dalton (2011).

Sport and physical activity have long been used to improve mental, physical and social wellbeing at Pymble – even 100 years ago when our founding Principal, Dr John Marden, acknowledged health and vitality were essential to every girl achieving her potential.

From training before and after school to state, national and international competitions, Pymble’s sports and activities program aims to provide opportunities for every student, regardless of her experience or performance level. With a variety of sports available, dedicated coaches and fantastic facilities including our magnificent new Centenary Sports Precinct, Pymble offers every girl the opportunity and perfect environment to become the best version of themselves.

Pymble sets a high standard in girls’ school sporting prowess in numerous sports, and Pymble students continuously achieve truly outstanding results.

Year after year, they continue to display excellent leadership, commitment and team spirit, approaching their sports in the spirit of the College by continually striving for the highest.

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Focus on staff

Focus on staff

Dean of Students, K-12

Head of Junior School

Learning is a vocation at Pymble. We attract leaders in our field who are equally passionate about providing girls with an engaging and empowering educational experience. Meet some of our newer members of the team.

“ I would like every girl who comes through the Junior School to know that they are valued and important, and that no matter what barriers they face in life, with persistence, determination and hard work, they can overcome them and achieve great things.”

Dr Sarah Loch fills a newly-created role at the College, as Dean of Students, Kindergarten–Year 12. Her extensive career spans the primary, secondary and tertiary education sectors. She comes to Pymble from the University of Technology Sydney, where she held the role of Lecturer and Project Development Manager – International Research Centre for Youth Futures.

She also has a PhD in Education, and is the former Gifted and Talented Coordinator for Co-curricular Programs and Dean of Middle School at Abbotsleigh.

Q. What does your new role mean for students?

Dr Loch: “Today’s students have so many opportunities through the academic curriculum and their co-curricular pursuits to personalise their learning, and this is certainly true at a school like Pymble Ladies’ College with its focus on knowing, guiding and challenging every girl. But with options also come complex decisions and sometimes stresses which need working through. “ I am privileged in my new role as Dean of Students, to share the journey through school with all Pymble girls. I am looking forward to working alongside College teachers as we continue to enhance wellbeing in academic and social domains with special emphasis on the developmental needs of girls at the different stages of their journey through school.”

Q. What do you believe is key to a student’s success, now and in the future?

Dr Loch: “Curiosity about what is possible and confidence in one’s skills as a learner are wonderful gifts for students to explore. School can open so many doors and with encouraging, expert teachers on hand, students should make the most of the assistance they are offered.

20 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

“ Another key to success is a willingness to have a go with new activities, be that debating, drama productions, team sport, leadership or running a school service event. It’s wonderful to see young women finish Year 12 with a rich range of activities on their CV – but don’t wait until the final two years! Push yourself to try something new every year and don’t be afraid of challenges or discomfort.”

Mr Nigel Walker started as Head of Junior School in January this year.

Following earlier careers in business and IT, Mr Walker answered his true calling and completed his teaching qualifications, which include a Bachelor of Arts (Australian Literature and Education), Graduate Diploma of Primary Education, Master of Educational Administration and Graduate Diploma in School Compliance.

His former positions include Principal of Wahroonga Preparatory School, Wahroonga, Assistant Principal (Pre-K to 12) and Head of Junior School at St Paul’s Grammar School, Cranebrook, Principal of Loquat Valley Anglican School, Bayview and House Master (boarding and day) at The King’s School, Parramatta.

Head of Middle School “ I am an experienced educator with a commitment to making a positive contribution to the needs of girls and to their academic, personal and social development so that they mature into confident young women who are life-ready.”

Mrs Tammy Rees-Davies started as Head of Middle School in Term 2. rs Rees-Davies has a Masters degree in English as well as a M Post Graduate Certificate in Education and comes to Pymble having spent the previous seven years at Ravenswood School for Girls, most recently as Acting Head of Middle School. Her extensive English teaching experience also includes postings at St Paul’s College in Manly as well as schools and Colleges in the United Kingdom.

Community Engagement team s a community, we hold in high A esteem the relationships we have with each other. We believe in the importance of our staff, past, present and future students and families, and members of our local and international communities standing together as global citizens, included, valued and respected, as stated in our Towards 2020 strategic plan.

P ymble’s Community Engagement team is headed up by Director – Community Engagement, Mrs Kelly Mancey and consists of several departments, including Marketing and Communications, Enrolments, Alumni, Development, GMCPA and the College Shop. The team provides regular

opportunities for our ever-growing community to connect through a wide range of events, including tours and enrolment activities, College events and ex-student gatherings. It also reinforces those connections through various communication channels, including Newsletters, Pymbulletin, website, social media, video, the College archives in the Heritage Centre and our Pymble app.

The team also attends teacher and student-led initiatives, to record moments for our communications and archives.

“The Community Engagement team is often the first point of contact for families when they enrol,” said Mrs Mancey. “ From there we aim to enhance everyone’s experience at Pymble by providing relevant and timely events, communications and opportunities for you to be involved with your daughter’s life at the College.”

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Preparatory School highlights

Preparatory School highlights

From paddock to plate “Our ‘Paddock to Plate’ Unit culminated in a hoedown, when girls arrived dressed as farmers for the day and shared their learning with parents. A fantastic bush dance demonstration by the girls, later joined by parents, proved to be a great finale to our Kindergarten investigation.”

During Term 2, Kindergarten girls began investigating how food and other products get from the farm to our homes and onto our plates. The girls’ curiosity was sparked by a surprise visit from Farmer Ashley, who delivered fruit, vegetables and dairy products direct to our learning space. From there the girls commenced a journey of inquiry with a food product they wished to investigate further.

Students utilised their iPads to research how their food product makes the journey from the farm to our homes and to develop an understanding of the process of food production. They also compiled their very own eBook, demonstrating their learning through flowcharts, videos, art and writing.

– Mrs Karen Ahearn

My Time

Town planners in the making Preparatory students enjoyed their first MyTime opportunities during Term 3 as a component of our Wellbeing sessions.

The girls were presented with recreational, active and problem-solving activities. Each student was asked to identify activities which they saw as benefiting their sense of personal wellbeing. Activities included cooking, BeeBot programming, ball games, French knitting, origami and design challenges.

The girls delighted in the opportunity to engage in activities that reflected their sense of personal wellbeing as they further developed their understanding of the RULER Program. These afternoons were designed to assist the girls to understand the importance of giving the priority of time to things they enjoy within their busy week. Girls also delighted in shared experiences with students of similar interests across Kindergarten to Year 2.

22 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

Exploring Mathematics through this challenge enabled students to develop deeper understandings of concepts and to make meaningful connections between Mathematics and the real world.

As part of a mathematical project, a number of Year 1 students took on the role of town planner to design and construct their perfect town. The students brainstormed ideas for their own unique towns, including areas for recreation, entertainment and facilities. Using problem-solving strategies, they identified important elements and organised their ideas to develop a comprehensive plan.

The girls considered aspects of infrastructure and community requirements that they thought were essential as they worked in groups to plan, design and finally construct their three dimensional model.

As construction options were explored, the girls considered which recycled boxes matched the three-dimensional objects needed, how two-dimensional shapes could be integrated for specific purposes and what additional materials could be used to represent different features.

With great enthusiasm the girls shared their completed models with their classmates, reflecting on the process and justifying the choices they had made.

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Preparatory School highlights

Preparatory School highlights

Young minds embrace STEM The subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) have been soundly embraced by students in the Preparatory School, who participated in several STEM challenges throughout the year.

The first challenge was to make an attractive floating decoration. There were some very beautiful and creative entries and it was obvious that the criteria had been carefully considered by the girls as there was much discussion around how they could make changes to make their decoration float more effectively.

The second challenge was to make a toy from recycled material and the response to this challenge was overwhelming. There was amazing variety in the 87 entries, which included marionettes, puzzles, dress-up boxes, robots and even a Pymbopoly board game.

The final challenge was a coding exercise.

The enthusiasm and delight in which they undertook the challenge was an indication that the girls are building a foundation of knowledge and love of STEM that we continue to nurture in the Preparatory School.

Students re-write history “These sessions give the girls contact with someone who writes books for a living.

“It makes being a writer a much more accessible concept, as opposed to something that lives in their imagination, and shows the authentic ways in which writers work, including the generation of ideas, drafts and revisions.”

– Author, Mrs Jacqueline Harvey

Q. Where in the world would you find cows in the pool doing backstroke, crunching carrots and munching marshmallows?

A. I n a new children’s storybook written by class 2B with a little help from Mrs Jacqueline Harvey, bestselling children’s author of the Alice Miranda and Clementine Rose series and the Preparatory School’s 2016 Artist in Residence.

During Term 2, Mrs Harvey attended Pymble for a series of writing sessions designed to help each Year 2 class create a children’s book based on a historical event at Pymble. The writing sessions generated great collaboration between the students and the author as they worked together to turn historical facts or past events at Pymble into rollicking reads for young minds.

“Cows in the pool” references the late 1920s when cows grazed within sight of the first Pymble pool. Another book in the making revolves around the infamous visit from The Duchess of Gloucester in 1946, while the third story features the Pymble firetruck from the 1970s.

The girls enjoyed learning how to “paint pictures with their words” instead of simply “telling” how, what or why something happened. Mrs Harvey also encouraged the girls to re-read sentences to see how they could make their sentences stronger, more interesting and less repetitive.

The Artist in Residence Program was made possible due to a grant from the Pymble Ex-Students’ Union.

Planting the STEM seeds Prior to the challenges, we used picture books during library sessions to stimulate discussion about problem solving, inventing, creating and the various tasks that people who work in STEM occupations may do. We also discussed the criteria for the challenges that the girls should be aware of when they were making their decorations.

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Preparatory School highlights

Our girls are great sports!

“In the name of all competitors, I promise that we shall take part in this Athletics Carnival responsibly, respecting and abiding by the rules that govern them. In the true spirit of sportsmanship and for the glory of sport we will honour our Houses, Gibbs, Mackellar and Turner.

We also promise to play with integrity, respect and care for others, and with courage within ourselves. Most importantly we promise to have fun!”

On a glorious Autumn day, our Preparatory School students demonstrated their developing athletics abilities at the 2016 Preparatory School Athletics Carnival. The day commenced with an opening ceremony during which the Preparatory School Athletics Carnival Oath was recited on behalf of all competitors. Spectators were entertained by the Preparatory Jazz Cheer Leaders who performed for the very first time. All competitors were challenged during the nine events. Integrity and sportsmanship was observed throughout the day as our girls encouraged and supported each other and endeavoured to achieve their personal best in support of their House. Well done to all and congratulations to Gibbs House, the overall winner on the day.

Preparatory School highlights

Love is in the air Care and Respect are two important core values at Pymble and this year the Preparatory School Parent Group hosted two events for the girls to show their parents how much they value their mothers, fathers and carers.

Pymble Ladies’ College Parent Group (PSPG) Preparatory School

On Thursday 5 May, mothers and daughters enjoyed the inaugural Preparatory School Mother Daughter High Tea. The girls and their guests enjoyed savoury snacks, fruit and mini treats around beautifully laid tables complete with place cards, table centrepieces and fairy lights. Afterwards everyone played trivia games and placemat activities, facilitated by the Preparatory School Liaison Prefects and Senior School volunteers.

You are invited to

attend the

Preparatory School Tea High Mother Daughter , 1.00pm to 2.30pm sday 5 May 2016

Thur other mums, for a er, her friends, and Day. Please join your daught Tea in celebration of Mother’s d High invite 1916 vintage inspire to attend, we warmly If a mother is unable her place. family member in another female adult gmail.com or on kristinarhee@ Rhee a Kristin harmacy.com.au CONTACT priscilla@thecentrep Priscilla Sung on School Areas, Preparatory VENUE Common e Pymble Ladies’ Colleg Student per / $10 COST $20 per Adult 2016 RSVP Sunday 1 May CLICK HERE TO

BOOK AND PAY

ONLINE

On Thursday 1 September, girls and their dads enjoyed our first Father Daughter Breakfast, ahead of Father’s Day. The girls delighted in sharing breakfast with their dads in the Upper Courtyard, introducing their friends and taking their guests on a tour of our Preparatory School Library. The fathers were then invited to the classrooms where they shared in their daughter’s learning and engaged in activities with the girls.

– The Preparatory School Athletics Carnival Oath

Italian lessons come to life Italian Day was a memorable way to immerse the girls in the Italian language and culture they have been learning about this year. The girls came dressed in the Italian flag colours of verde, bianco and rosso, and began their day with a puppet show featuring Arlecchino (the Harlequin) and his friends.

The Preparatory School was a hive of activity as the girls engaged in pizza and meatball races, singing Italian songs, building spaghetti towers, making Mona Lisa art, gelato art, pizza craft, stained glass windows and masks and listening to traditional Italian stories.

The girls also enjoyed ordering their favourite flavour of gelato from the gelato “ape”, parked outside the Preparatory School office for the day.

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Junior School highlights

STEM steams ahead with The Amazing Race challenge

Junior School highlights

Great minds think like da Vinci

It is well known that women are severely under-represented in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), which is sometimes also referenced as STEMM (the second M standing for Medical). Pymble teachers and students are inspired to redress this imbalance and engage in fun ways to develop the skills needed to succeed in these areas with challenges such as The Amazing Race and our inaugural STEM Games, a Kindergarten to Year 12 competition launched this year.

Two engineering students from the University of New South Wales, Nivaaz Sehmbhi and Denix Emil, have been working with our girls to inspire a spark that one day could flare into a love for engineering.

In The Amazing Race STEMM Challenge, students were split into groups to design engineering challenges in four different disciplines: 1. Biomedical Engineering (creating a prosthetic hand) 2. Civil Engineering (building a bridge) 3. Computer Engineering (coding to make creations perform certain actions on the screen) 4. Mechanical Engineering (building a tower and knocking it down) Once the challenges were designed and evaluated, the race was on for the 40 participants from the Years 3 to 5 Mathematics Extension groups to meet the brief.

The climate warmed considerably as the girls’ brains engaged in their tasks for two solid hours. The most popular challenges were those that involved designing and making a “real” object, although the coding was also well received. The participants provided some valuable feedback to our budding engineers, with the most common responses being, “we want more!”

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Sixteen of our bright young minds competed in the The entire team left the competition coursing with pride at 2016 da Vinci Decathlon on 24 May in the Great Hall at their efforts and keen to return to compete next year.

Knox Grammar School. Greeted by a marching band, Thank you to Mr Brown and congratulations to: the girls were swiftly set a range of Year 5 complex problems to solve, incorporating Zoe Moss Mathematics, Science, English, Philosophy, The da Vinci Decathlon Jessica Woo General Knowledge and the Arts. is a cross-disciplinary Aileen Hao learning challenge. The The competition celebrates flexible and Amelia Wines creative thinking and is a chance for competition is designed Natalia Ng students with high academic abilities to to challenge and stimulate Tiffany Bae be challenged and to work as a team in a the minds of school Samantha Beverley competitive, pressured environment. Team students, drawing on Alyssa Yee work, a positive attitude and an ability to their knowledge of 10 Year 6 stay calm are key, and the Pymble Years disciplines: Engineering, Caitlyn Kim 5 and 6 teams exhibited these qualities Mathematics, Code Jessica O’Bryan throughout the entire day.

Breaking, Art and Faye Chang The culmination of their efforts resulted Suzanne Brian Poetry, Science, English, in Year 6 taking third place in English Grace Selim Philosophy, Creative and Science and second place in Code Bella Macdonald Production, Cartography Breaking, and in turn eventually taking third Jenhui Lau and General Knowledge. place outright in the entire Decathlon, a Isabel Dean momentous achievement.

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Junior School highlights

Junior School highlights

The PJ Factor

Junior School hall of fame

At Pymble we seek ways to recognise and honour individual gifts and talents, and one of those ways is through the Pymble Junior (PJ) Factor, held every year in Term 1 in the Junior School. Students are invited to perform in different areas of Performing Arts, including Instrumental, Vocal, Dance, Drama and Media. Every student who enters scores points for their House.

We congratulate the following students and teams for their outstanding achievements this year.

Ashley Dhanu (Year 6) Two years ago, Ashley submitted a drawing to Wombat Books who selected her work as one of the illustrations to be published in a new children’s book by Australian author, Aleesah Darlison. This year the book, Zoo Ball, was finally published. Ashley’s creative skills are now two years ahead of this illustration, but we are sure you will agree this was an effort worthy of note, not just because of the outstanding drawing but because of Ashley’s willingness to make the effort and have a go.

The winning performers from each category in each year group are then asked to perform in a competition at the end of the term in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts.

This year, our concert was held on Thursday 7 April and it was a wonderful display of the amazing talent in the Junior School. Every student from the Junior School attended the concert to cheer on and support their friends.

And the winner is… Turner House!

Junior School Spirit Awards The Junior School Spirit Awards are the brainchild of our Junior School Liaison Prefects, Alexia Wan, Lucy Neville and Nicola Bowtell of Year 12. Similar to the Jacaranda Awards in the Secondary School, our awards recognise and honour those girls who have displayed the College values during the term.

Congratulations to the following girls:

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Spirit Award

Term 2 Spirit Award winners

CARE, COURAGE, INTEGRITY, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

awarded to

for

Mr Nigel Walker

Date

HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

A ll’ Ult i m o La v o ro – St ri v e fo r t h e h i g h e s t

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Faye Chang and Grace Selim (Year 6)

Ella van Horen Jasmine McAuley Katrina Lin Emily Rothery Alice Zhang Natalie Farquhar Grace Ho Sophie Livingstone Aileen Hao Jessica Woo Amelia Seeto Alyssa Yee Zoe Moss

Term 2 (continued)

Term 3 (continued)

• • • • • •

• Grace Perrignon • Isabelle Davis • Jessica Beeton • Alejandra Varela Garcia • Zoe Allen • Jessica Martens • Eliza Gothard • Rebecca Peters • Lara Albany • Caitlin Ballance • Holly Luzar • Jessica O’Bryan • Isabella Holdsworth • Christina Yang

Chloe Tedesco Sophie Dunn Faye Chang Olivia Pethard Georgie Bignell Rhea Bhatti

Term 3 Spirit Award winners • • • • •

Leah Brown Talia Luo Emily Rothery Kathie Ong Marina Volikas

Our budding poets won two of the eight top awards in the national Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards 2016. Faye (pictured) won the Upper Primary category for her poem, Mountains, and Grace won the Multicultural NSW division for The Song of Australia. Faye’s winning Upper Primary entry was described by the awards judges, author Sophie Masson and poet Stephen Whiteside as an “absolutely beautiful poem, great patterning and graceful rhythm, lovely imagery, and a perfect last verse. And a great tribute to the spirit of Dorothea Mackellar's poems too.” The judges praised Grace for “a lovely and unusual way of telling the story of multicultural Australia in this poem – nicelypitched and with great musical rhythm as befits its subject.”

Primary Schools Sports Association (PSSA) Swimming Our Junior and Senior Relay teams both won a Gold medal in the 4 x 50 metres Freestyle Relay at the PSSA Swimming Championship.

Isabella Lee was also first in Backstroke and Jenna Coghill was third in 50 metres Freestyle. Both girls also qualified for the New South Wales Primary Schools Sports Association (NSWPSSA) Swimming team to compete at the National School Sport Australia Competition (NSSAC).

PSSA Diving Emily Pearson (11 Years) was first in Springboard, third in Platform and qualified for the NSWPSSA team to compete at NSSAC. Samantha Scarr (12 Years) was fourth in Springboard and qualified for the NSWPSSA team to compete at the NSSAC. NSWPSSA Diving Anya Rudenko (Year 5) was selected in the NSWPSSA Diving team to compete at NSSAC. NSWPSSA Hockey Championships Jenna Coghill and Laura Wilson were in the NSW Combined Independent Schools Sports Council (NSWCIS) team which placed fifth in the PSSA Hockey Championships. Jenna was also selected in the NSWPSSA team to compete at NSSAC.

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Junior School highlights

Junior School highlights

Poet’s corner Year 6 analysed the figurative language and visual narrative in the book Flood, by Jackie French to create their own flood-inspired poems. Their At Peace poems reflected how they achieved their own sense of mindfulness, calmness and positivity.

Campers step out of comfort zones Flood

by Jessica O’Bryan Shimmering like a diamond under the sky Washing the memories of terror by Safety, community and happiness too The city of Brisbane is peaceful and new Fear is lost at the depths of sea Flood brought us together, you and me At Peace

by Georgina Makeham

Flood

by Grace Selim

When the sun sets over the rolling tide at noon as it crashes calmly onto the sleepy shore That’s when I’m at peace

Heroes searched the depth of the waters Bitter cold winds breathed, gently lapping faces Flashing lights guide like lighthouses Across never ending seas of black Finding lost hearts, dead or alive

Once night falls and Earth’s true beauty awakens as you hear the gentle tinkle of water That perfect kind of silence and you look up at the millions of stars That’s when I will rest

Flood

by Annabelle Ainsworth The rain started pelting down, It punched all those brave enough to go outside, One moment the world was our friend, A place to play in, A place to laugh in, The next moment: our enemy, A place to hide away from, A place to feel scared, frightened, As luscious green grass turned to mud, Or a river that was deep enough to swim, The water came slashing through the land, Picking up anything in its way, Never thought this would happen to you, Never wanting to admit it, To anyone, to yourself, That you are covered in water, That you’re in a flood.

The question that wonders through your head, The question most dreaded, Should I say goodbye?

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In the first week of Term 3, Year 4 packed their bags, kissed their families goodbye and took off on their three-day camp. The physical setting was stunning, approximately five kilometres into the bush outside the little township of Wingello in the Southern Highlands, where kangaroos, wallabies and kookaburras were in abundance.

The girls were challenged to step out of their comfort zones, be stretched and experience things they have never felt before.

“ The highlight for me came when we were awaiting our turn on the flying fox, for which we had to attach our harness, climb a three metre ladder, then climb around a pole for two metres and strap in for the ride,” recalled Head of Junior School, Mr Nigel Walker. “ One of the girls was overheard saying, ‘I don’t know what I am feeling right now!’. What an insightful comment. She was about to attempt something she had never attempted before and was feeling

understandably anxious, but she was also able to verbalise the way she was feeling. This, to me, represents the true value of attending camp.”

As a learning community we thank Mrs Plant, Miss O’Brien, Mrs Hill, Ms Eisner, Mrs Cameron, and Miss Solomon for sacrificing time with their own families to spend three days with our girls, as well as Mrs Marich and Mrs Mercer for their organisational work in the lead up to the event.

It’s that feeling when you’re surrounded by white everywhere you turn – in a winter wonderland And as you breathe, small white clouds dance and twirl before you That’s when I feel renewed When the day is new and the sun is out as you sit under a shady tree and read listening to the rustling sound of pages turning, and the whispering leaves on the trees That’s when I am at ease As you open the door to the sweet scent of lavender and the cosy welcoming warmth that the fire brings as it quietly hisses Once you doze off and all your worries float away from a long, stressful day That’s when I will dream.

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Boarding highlights

Boarding highlights

Boarders’ memories live on Each new school year, one of our Year 7 Boarders is gifted with this very special scholarship and begins her own journey as a Pymble girl.

Jersey Day in June, ahead of the long weekend, is an extra special day for the Pymble community. It’s the day when our Boarders, Secondary School students and staff wear their favourite jerseys in exchange for a gold coin donation to raise money for the Alanda Clark, Jane Gay and Prudence Papworth Boarding Scholarship.

“ Many of us were not members of the College then, but we all join with the Boarders on this day to identify with the commemoration of the loss of three beautiful students,” said Director of Boarding, Mrs Deanne Elliott.

These three boarders tragically lost their lives while travelling home for the June long weekend in 1993.

“ Jersey Day not only celebrates the enduring legacy of the Scholarship, but more important as a community, it allows us to mark the lives of the girls as significant in our lives.”

Earth hour at Pymble On 19 March, our Boarders joined millions of other Australians to show support for a low pollution, clean energy future by turning out the lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm and heading outdoors. This year’s theme

celebrated the outdoor places we love and that make the Australian lifestyle so great. Of course, girls will be girls...

What started as a hand print or two to symbolise their care for the environment turned into a fully-fledged paint fight!

City and country unite to support farmers Director of Boarding, Mrs Deanne Elliott couldn’t be more proud of her Boarders for bringing city and country together to support Aussie Helpers. “ Our Principal often reminds our students to ‘be the change you want to see in the world’,” said Mrs Elliott. “ Eleanor and Eliza worked with Mrs Waters to identify this leadership goal of giving back to the farming community, plan it out and make it happen. “ Their energy, effort and commitment to see it through helped them to surpass their goal.”

The challenge of farming life is an issue close to the hearts of the Pymble Boarding community, many of whom have experienced life on the land first hand.

So when Pymble’s Boarding Head Prefect, Eleanor Kierath and Boarding Deputy Head Prefect, Eliza Whiteley set out to leave a legacy of their time as Boarding leaders, they couldn’t go past a fundraising event to help support farmers in times of need.

Thus Pymble’s Inaugural Boarding Charity Formal Event to raise money for Aussie Helpers was born. The evening event for Year 12 Boarders, friends and family galvanised the College community to donate delicious food and wine for the evening, as well as a wide range of items and prizes for a live auction, a silent auction and a raffle draw.

Boarding Parent Group leader, Mr Mark Judson left no doubt about the devastating impact of drought on Australian farming families and their livestock in his emotive address to guests, who were all moved to show their support.

Thanks to their overwhelming generosity– and the skill of professional auctioneer and former Pymble boarding parent, Peter Eccleston – the target of raising $5,000 was well and truly exceeded.

In total, $13,500 was raised for Aussie Helpers on the night.

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Middle School highlights

Middle School highlights

Thank you for the music

Pymble kids become teachers for a day

“The Festival was a great showcase of the students’ originality, creativity and teamwork, with some wonderful music making, excellent choreography and dancing, and visually exciting costumes.”

Year 8 Pymble students took over as “teachers” at our fifth annual Kids Teaching Kids (KTK) conference, an Australia-wide program co-founded

by Environmentalist of the Year, Arron Wood. More than 200 Years 5 and 6 students from Pymble and neighbouring schools attended the sustainability-themed day, which launched with an assembly led by Year 8 Middle School Leaders in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts.

The College values of Care, Courage, Integrity, Respect and Responsibility were at the core of this year’s Performing Arts Festival.

The day started with performances by all Year 7 Music classes. Each class chose a song in which the theme of the lyrics reflected one of the College values. The classes arranged their own performances, including vocal harmonies, solo work, instrumental accompaniment and dance moves.

In the afternoon, performances of the Gloria Gaynor classic I Will Survive by Year 7 girls in their Houses were interspersed with renditions of ‘70s disco hits by the Year 8 Connect Groups. The girls had learnt these songs during Connect time, ably assisted by Years 10 and 11 choristers and dance students.

After several presentations, including a speech from Mr Wood, students then split into groups to attend workshops conducted by our Year 8 “teachers”. The 45 workshops covered a range of environmental issues including sustainable air travel, food waste, endangered species, the Great Barrier Reef, deforestation and alternative energy.

Speaking at the launch of KTK 2016, Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters reiterated

Pymble’s commitment to aiming for Green Star status in infrastructure and daily practice. She also urged students to share their learnings from KTK day. “ Be inspired by your workshops and don’t just go back to school and forget them. “ Take what you learn today and become an advocate and a leader for a sustainable future for humankind,” Mrs Waters said.

– Director of Music, Mrs Sabina Turner

The Kids Teaching Kids program is based on peerled education.

Appointed “teachers” are supported by their actual teachers to research the environmental issues in the terms preceding the conference.

The KTK program is now embedded in our Year 8 curriculum. More than 110,000 Australian children have participated in the program since its launch in 1999.

Congratulations to the winning teams: Goodlet House, for I Will Survive and Connect Group 8CG12, for the Year 8 disco songs.

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Middle School highlights

Destination: NASA missions during space camp. Each individual had a role to play in either Mission Control, the Discovery Space Shuttle or the International Space Station. All three Missions were successfully completed. In our free time, we had the chance to go on rides and the simulators astronauts used to train their bodies to handle force during launching.

Later in the week we experienced training in an eight-metres-deep diving pool. This pool “The possibilities is where astronauts trained to build objects are limited only by underwater where there is no gravity.

Middle School Science students were flying high after a two-week educational experience of a lifetime in the United States. The girls engaged with scientists, engineers and astronauts and completed a range of simulated missions at National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to gain a better understanding of STEM in relation to space exploration.

Here’s what two attendees had to say:

“ Our experience at NASA was unforgettable, our imagination and mind blowing and enjoyable. The first week “ We also FaceTimed a NASA astronaut, determination, not was spent in Houston, Texas, studying about Kathleen Rubins, during her launch by the physics.” the heritage of this place. We also heard into space. from guest speaker, Amber S Gell, a rocket – NASA’s Mike Duke “Throughout this experience, we learnt how scientist and engineer who designed the to work collaboratively as a team and solve Orion Spacecraft that will send astronauts problems within a short amount of time in less gravity. This to Mars in 2043, and visited the Johnson Space Center, journey was full of joy, laughter, courage, failure and success. where we met a famous astronaut, Leroy Chiao, who went It was about discovering our dreams and learning that failure on seven missions. is not an option when success is your destination.” “ The second week of this trip took place in Huntsville, – Kelly Zhao and Grace Gu (Year 7) Alabama, where we completed three pretend space

Middle School highlights

Just another Mindful Monday “Mindful Monday is a day to reflect and think about not only our school, but ourselves and others.

What have we done that demonstrates the College values? What have we done that has helped or shown that we care for others?

“Involving all of Year 7 in the dance made students feel included, motivated and joyful all at the same time.

It also made Year 7 calm by focusing on the dance and letting our worries run free.

The College was treated to a delightful impromptu display on Monday 15 August when all Year 7 Connect Groups flooded on to Gloucester Lawn to do a ‘flash mob’ performance of the Double Dream Hands dance.

The Mindful Monday initiative was originally started to bring awareness of the need for downtime and to focus on improving wellbeing and reducing stress through physical activities. The contagious nature of the dance inspired the girls to do a mass performance, led by students Samantha Guthrie, Alyssa Vardy, Megan Buson and Mia Smal.

The students were also delighted to see Year 7 Student Co-ordinator, Ms Diakoumis and Year 7 Connect Teachers, Mrs Bogan-Lloyd, Miss Mander, and Dr Wood get involved to make it a real Middle School community activity.

“We are planning many more mindfulness and happiness activities in our Connect groups such as meditation and fun and easy games. These activities will help us focus, relax and feel happy inside as everyone laughs and gives it a go.

“School can be stressful but doing these small activities in class helps us feel relaxed and gets us into a positive mindset for the rest of the day.”

– Connect Captains for 7CG01, Samantha Guthrie and Alyssa Vardy

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Middle School highlights

Middle School highlights

Leaning in and leading at the Middle The Middle School Team is conscious of mentoring potential leaders and works hard to encourage students to be themselves: to be self-assured, confident and resilient young women, who are not afraid to step up out of the crowd and give something a go.

Leadership models are not only about making future executives, but should develop young people’s abilities, to help them find their voice, and to make an impact today.

Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead encourages women and girls to “[ask] ourselves what we would do if we weren’t afraid, and then [reach] for those ambitions.” Not every one of our girls is destined to be a CEO, but taking more opportunities gives our girls options. We want to encourage our girls to lean in, to empower them with the skills and acumen they need for today and for their future, and to teach them to not be afraid.

Opportunities and positions of leadership in Middle School are numerous, including House Liaison Officers, Student Representative Council, Connect Group Captains, Library Monitresses, Chapel Leaders, National Exchange Program, Outdoor Education Program, Community Service opportunities, Hubbies, Pymble Tour Guides, New Student Buddies, and the list goes on, extending into co-curricular activities.

We are very proud of the way our Year 8 Middle School leaders have worked collegially through the triumphs and challenges of leadership and their reflections on leadership are very telling of how much they are valuing the experience of leading in the Middle.

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Q. What does leadership mean to you?

Q. How important is it for girls to ‘lean into’ opportunities?

Q. What advice do you have for aspiring leaders?

“ Leadership is being assertive without being bossy. It is taking an active role to inspire and motivate others into creating positive change within the community. A good leader is someone who does this by always being respectful, considerate and kind and having empathy towards others, whilst being a responsible role model and helping guide and support others. Leadership is also having a voice that represents the thoughts and feelings of the community.”

– Amelie Yee

“ We believe it’s extremely important for girls to embrace opportunities. In our society, positions of power and leadership are seen as more appropriate for men. The talents and abilities of women are constantly undermined and it’s up to us to eliminate the assumption that men are the only people that are capable of holding positions of higher power. As leaders, we try to motivate girls to be anything they want, such as the next Prime Minister, motivational speaker or leaders of a team or sport. Our ancestors fought hard for women to not be disregarded and shadowed by men. We need to embrace the opportunities that they fought so hard for us to receive.”

“ Just go for it! Give any opportunity that comes your way a try and never hold back. Even if the chances are unlikely and you don’t think you will get it, reach for the stars and try your best. If you don’t get the position that you want, don’t be discouraged as there are infinite opportunities for you to try at this amazing school. Be yourself during interviews and don’t be afraid to let your true colours shine through, because everyone will love you for who you are. Be confident and positive! And remember, just because you don’t have a fancy badge, doesn’t mean you can’t be a leader. Keep in mind this is just the beginning of your leadership journey!”

“ Being a good leader means trying to involve everyone and making sure everyone’s opinion is always considered. It is important to be enthusiastic and encourage everyone to take part in activities. Anyone can be a good leader; it is not something you are born with.”

– Hannah Shaw Q. How did you become a Middle School leader?

– Jessica Croudace and Madeleine Morris

– Gabriella Chippeck and Stephanie Volos

“ We had to fill out an application form and have an interview with the Year 8 Co-ordinators, Deputy Head of Middle School and Head of Middle School. The interview was a great learning experience for me and all the other girls. We were asked about our views about certain issues, and this made me re-think my immediate responses, and to answer honestly. At the end of the day, even if I didn’t become a Middle School leader, I’d still reflect on the process as a great growing and learning experience.”

– Emma Goktas “ I think that I was chosen as I am able to listen well to others as well as contribute ideas and build on others’ ideas. I am also able to get things done in a short amount of time as well as get completely engrossed in doing a particular task.”

– Angela Lam-Li Q. What leadership opportunities have you enjoyed? “ We have had the opportunity to lead the Middle School Assemblies, which have helped us to develop and learn new leadership skills. We feel that our peers look up to us as leaders and role models, and we encourage them to step up and take the challenge of being a leader. We are given the chance to collaborate with the teachers about ideas that contribute to the development of the Middle School. We also launched Kids Teaching Kids 2016, an important day as sustainability is a big topic throughout the Middle School.”

– Olivia Anderson and Sophie Wickins (From left to right) Amelie Yee, Stephanie Volos, Gabriella Chippeck, Angela Lam-Li, Emma Goktas, Jessica Croudace, Madeleine Morris, Sophie Wickins, Hannah Shaw, Olivia Anderson.

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Upper School highlights

Upper School highlights

Year 9 students showcase the process of learning

Ten girls’ schools from all over NSW, inspirational female mentors and teachers, and the future women leaders of our generation all came together at the Girls for Change Making a Difference (MAD) conference this year to share and learn the valuable skills required to facilitate change.

We’re MAD for Change “ I was very enthusiastic to join the Girls for Change Making a Difference conference and to meet with other like-minded, empowered young women who were motivated to learn and to become the powerful female influences of the millennials. “ During the lectures and presentations at the conference, I was taught integral take-home messages in order to become a strong leader in my own everyday life. Maz Valcorza, Felicity Furey and other successful entrepreneurs conveyed to us the art of leadership. These simple but essential ideologies were reinforced throughout the program, to ensure

that we could all learn universal concepts which could help us achieve our goals. “ By working collaboratively with other girls from Years 9, 10 and 11, and having dynamic Head Prefects as our mentors, I felt a sense of strength and courage as I took on new initiatives to find my strengths. Essentially, we all had three special strengths which we could implement in order to become a powerful leader in our communities.

I found out that my three key strengths were spirituality, social intelligence and a love of learning.”

– Ayra Kassam, Year 9

Earlier in the year, our Year 9 students hosted a Project landscape, communicating to their audience via the visual Based Learning (PBL) Showcase for parents, peers and force of an infographic. In History, students were required teachers, unveiling three research projects they had worked to work in a team of six to make a documentary film about on simultaneously for eight weeks. As well as presenting the early Australian colony – was it a place to prosper or their final conclusions, the girls perish? The girls had to do the outlined the process they undertook actual work of historians, locating Congratulations to our film stars to arrive at each conclusion. The and showcasing relevant sources, English, History and PDHPE projects making evaluative judgement, The PBL was launched in Term 1 by Mr were deliberately designed to and communicating in a way that Edward Washington from Sydney Living Museums’ Audience Development teach skills in research, synthesis engaged a wide audience.

Office – Learning. Mr Washington also and communication. Each project “ It was most exciting to see the judged the finalist films. “It’s spectacular. required choice, definition of scope ways in which the presentations You have done the real work of real and substantial collaboration with really did showcase a learning historians,” he said. peers, teachers and external experts. journey; how the girls arrived at All four finalist films were of high calibre, “ The girls excelled in this process, these impressive final products,” both in terms of historical accuracy learning how to negotiate Mrs Williams said. and filmic technique, but the eventual challenges, find best directions winners were Medani Athauda, Patricia “ Students had learnt about and reflect on not just the final Chan, Emma Cree, Pippa Johnson, data bases and bibliographies, outcomes, but the steps taken Madison Wade and Angela Santoso. notetaking and the power of along the way,” said Director of research questions, strong Teaching and Learning, arguments and analytical evidence.

Mrs Deborah Williams. “ They also showed us the challenges the girls had In English, the girls researched an area of personal passion negotiated, the feedback they had utilised, the changes and communicated with the precision and poignancy in direction along the way, and the sense of achievement of journalistic writing. In PDHPE, they worked in pairs to they felt when their work was celebrated by a real and evaluate the claims of myriad diets in the current health authentic audience.”

Four take-home points from MAD • Networking is key • Now is a good time • Maximise your strengths • Create conversation.

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Upper School highlights

Upper School highlights

Exploring lessons in life Our Year 9 students were inspired by an extraordinary young man – and his dog! – during a Connect Extend session in Term 3. Australian adventurer, Tim Cope took to the stage of the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts to speak about his experience of riding on horseback for three and a half years, across 10,000km of boundary-less lands from Mongolia to Hungary to experience the nomadic way of life and to retrace the journey of Genghis Khan during his empirebuilding years.

Tim travelled solo, enduring extreme weather conditions, immense pain and discomfort at times and innumerable setbacks – and he literally had to keep the wolves from the door of his tent at night. He also learnt some profound life lessons along the way, which he shared with our students in his memorable presentation.

Right here, write now Throughout Term 2 in English, Upper School students participated in the ‘Right Here, Write Now’ research project. The six-week investigation was designed to open the girls’ minds to the world around them and to discover the power of language to influence and reflect real life issues.

Here, one student outlines her process of discovery: “ I wanted to choose something about education but when I began my research I realised that education as a concept was too broad. The research process had revealed some interesting facts about attendance rates across different communities.

Thinking critically about these facts, I narrowed my research down to a driving question: How do attendance rates affect the educational growth of individual students from disadvantaged backgrounds? “ Taking a risk, I chose to contact Macleay Vocational College (MVC) in South Kempsey, a school that caters for students at risk of not completing a basic high school education.

MVC is an independent school with approximately 60 students in attendance on a good day. “ My contact with the school revealed very low attendance rates due to low school engagement and a lack

1. It’s important to take risks: “Sometimes you have to trust that the odds will favour the brave.”

2. Life isn’t always perfect: “I didn’t have enough experience, money or time so I had to rely on my passion.”’

3. The journey is more important than the destination: “Never let obstacles put you off a challenge because usually, by the time you reach them, they are just pebbles on the road.”

Tim also referenced the ancient proverb, “Trust in God but always tie up the camel” – a reminder about the importance of having faith, while also taking responsibility for yourself.

The special appearance at the end of his presentation

by Tigon, the dog that was gifted to him along the way, highlighted the importance of caring for others in relation to your own wellbeing.

of motivation or encouragement at home. The attitude to education was negative. However, Mr Mark Morrison, the school Principal has tried hard to turn this around by using the technique called ‘8 Ways to Aboriginal Learning’, a technique that enables all students to learn in different ways. “ My last question for Mr Morrison was: What can the community and I do to help? Raising awareness was the answer. Not enough people know about schools like these and talking to your peers about it can make them more aware. As Pymble girls, we all need to be grateful for the school we go to and the safe area we live in. “ I would like to thank my English teacher, Ms Mitchell and Mr Morrison for guiding me on this English Project Based Learning journey to infinity and beyond! I didn’t expect to be where I am now with my research and cooperation. This project has made me wonder more often about other people’s opportunities and adversities.“ – Alexandra Egan (Year 9)

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Upper School highlights

Upper School highlights

We’re here to serve

Creating global communities

The Upper School is the arena for social responsibility, where the focus is on serving others. Our girls feel engaged, connected and purposeful when they commit to meeting the needs of other people in other places. These programs include:

• Lou’s Place – providing support to prepare for the arrival of the women who need care. Tasks may include cleaning, shopping and baking and meeting with case workers to discuss the reasons that the women may require support.

• Northaven Aged Care Facility – engaging in conversation and recreational activities with low-care residents. Girls may also assist with providing lunch or other tasks that will benefit the residents and aged care facility.

• S ir Eric Woodward Memorial School – assisting in the classroom and sometimes accompanying groups on community visits to local parks or shopping centres.

• E asy Care Gardening – providing maintenance to gardens in Turramurra to ensure that the elderly, socially isolated and disadvantaged in our community can stay in their own homes.

• Dunecare in the Northern beaches – maintaining our adopted coastal area at Curl Curl by assisting with the removal of weeds and dune revegetation.

• Exodus Foundation – assisting to provide lunch for the homeless and helping with activities such as preparing hampers for Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas.

• United Nations Advocate – Pymble has been invited to partner with the United Nations Peace Program to recognise and advocate for global issues. Girls who select this option participate in co-ordinating and promoting a variety of UN Calendar events within the College and locally.

• S t Edmund’s Athletics and Swimming carnivals – supporting the smooth delivery of each carnival, supporting students to compete in the events, providing support to St Edmund’s staff, assisting with catering and reporting requirements.

• Creative Collections – creating trauma teddies and cards, or preparing artworks for display in areas around the local community and hampers and gifts to give out at the various venues that the students visit. This is often in response to requests from the local community.

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“ At the end of an Exchange Program, our students come home with greater selfconfidence, maturity, resilience and independence – not to mention a heightened appreciation of the people and places they temporarily left behind.”

– Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters

Pymble’s Cultural Exchange and Language Exchange Programs now extend to 14 different countries around the world. Being an Exchange Student is an invaluable opportunity for learning and personal growth that reflects two of the four signposts in our Towards 2020 strategic intent: Personalised Education and Community. Students who participate in our Exchange Programs have a unique opportunity to learn about other cultures, education systems and perspectives on life and to understand their place as a global citizen.

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Senior School highlights

Senior School highlights

Leading and learning at Year 11 camp “The Senior School aims to provide every girl with a range of experiences which will challenge and enhance her academic, physical, social and emotional development. These experiences are developed through the academic courses, co-curricular activities including sport, performing arts and community service, and the wellbeing program.”

– Head of Senior School, Mrs Nikki Wyse

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There are many changes involved in moving into the Senior School. These final years of school mark the transition between the years of formal schooling and entry into the workforce and tertiary study. During this time, we assist the girls in setting goals, building and developing the skills to effectively manage their learning, and balancing the demands of the various aspects of their lives. It is an exciting period of growth, challenge and reward for the students. It also brings with it a need for greater self-discipline, self-knowledge and responsible, independent decision making.

The Year 11 Leadership and Learning Camp is designed to further develop the skills our Senior students will need for their final two years at school.

This year, the four-day residential camp was held at The Collaroy Centre, Collaroy early in Term 1. The Camp focused on developing the students’ academic and personal potential. Key areas such as motivation and goal setting, leadership and responsibility, and maintaining a healthy balance were addressed. The students were involved in a number of experiences including presentations, lectures, skillbuilding events and beach and ocean activities, including archery, a high ropes course and laser tag.

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Senior School highlights

Senior School highlights

It’s hip to be square!

Senior School students felt all warm and fuzzy about their efforts towards this year’s main service initiative, knitting thousands of squares to turn into blankets for the Wrap with Love organisation.

on hand to collate the finished squares, as were Pymble trouble-shooters – known fondly as the ‘Knit Wits’ – to help less experienced knitters cast on and off and fix any little hiccups in between.

The girls took to their needles in Term 2 and continued to ‘click clack’ throughout Term 3, adding to the growing piles of squares, which were then sewn into warm and sheltering wraps delivered to people in need by Wrap with Love. Each wrap comprised 28 squares, so it was definitely a case of the more knitters and squares, the merrier.

Rachel Parker in Year 12 was joined by her mum Linda, grandmother Shirley and great aunt Wendy – all of whom have enjoyed knitting since childhood.

Towards the end of Term 2 the girls enjoyed a lunchtime Knit-In at the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building to share the joy of this much-loved community project with fellow students, staff, parents, grandparents and other family members and friends. Wrap with Love representatives were

Lucy Irish, also in Year 12, was joined by her mum Fiona. A proud ‘Knit Wit’, Lucy has been a keen knitter since year 7 and enjoys her role of motivating others to get involved, teaching beginners and helping solve problems. “ Wherever I am, whatever I end up doing, I know I will always find time to sit on the couch and knit – squares for Wrap with Love, trauma teddies for Red Cross or pouches for orphaned joeys,” said Lucy. “I love it.”

Tackling tricky topics Q. W hat do you do when someone offers you something you are not sure you want to take?

How do you know what’s safe and what’s not?

In Term 1, the Director and Founder of Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA), Mr Paul Dillon presented to our Year 12 students, to help them clarify some of the conflicting and confusing messages prevalent in the media.

Mr Dillon has 25 years of experience working in the area of drug education and is a well-known and respected commentator who has appeared on a variety of television and radio programs to discuss topical issues, particularly in relation to young people and drugs. Mr Dillon’s session was aimed at empowering the students with relevant and factual information and the feedback received, from this year group and those in the recent past, has been extremely positive.

Young driver (and passenger) safety This year, once again we arranged for our Year 11 students to participate in the RYDA Road Safety Education Program, which provides practical road safety information targeting the attitude and awareness of high school drivers and their passengers. The students experienced six interactive sessions covering topics such as: • hazard perception • distraction management • vehicle safety • stopping distance • fatigue • the experiences of a crash survivor.

The overwhelming response from students was that this was a most worthwhile experience.

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Senior School highlights

Senior School highlights

Farewell Year 12, Class of 2016 Our Year 12 girls enjoyed a memorable last week of school, with fond farewells and final ceremonies recognising their unique contribution to the College, before leaving to embark on their HSC exams.

We laughed and cried with them as they shared special memories and moments in a Final Assembly, Final Chapel Service, Valedictory Dinner and of course the symbolic and traditional releasing of the doves on the Chapel steps. “Their school years have given them the wings to soar in life, but they will always be welcome back home at Pymble,� said Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters.

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College community events

College community events

Remembering our ANZACs Pymble students and staff enjoyed an especially reflective first day of Term 2, attending a dignified ANZAC Commemoration Ceremony on Gloucester Lawn.

Hosted by Master of Ceremony, Ellen Papadimitriou, the Ceremony included two hymns sung by the College Chorale, a prayer of thanks from Reverend Lorenzo Rodriguez Torres and a blessing of peace from Reverend Punam Bent.

There was also a traditional laying of the wreath by Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters, who reminded attendees that some of the ANZACs were as young as some of the girls – just 14 years of age – when they embarked on what they believed to be a “great adventure”. Remarking on the sacrifice our ANZACs made for our freedom, Mrs Waters urged students to “think about how you can make a difference to others in a positive way.”

History Captains, Lauren Park and Anjali Wijeratne delivered a well-researched commemorative speech that brought to life the horrors of the battles of Fromelles and Pozières, and the contribution our ANAZCs made to the war effort.

The haunting tunes of The Last Post and Reveille were beautifully played by Sophie Dyson, before staff and students disassembled to begin the new term.

Our College community gathered at a number of events during the year to connect, reflect and support each other as well as those in need.

Summer Icebreaker draws record crowd School spirit was out in force at the Pymble Parent Association (PPA) Icebreaker cocktail function held on Gloucester Lawn during the evening of Friday 19 February. This was the first parent event of Pymble’s Centenary celebrations year, with more than 700 guests in attendance, including Deputy Chair of College Council, Mrs Sonia Powell and College Council members, Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and academic staff, PPA President, Mrs Raj Narayan, Icebreaker Convenors, Mrs Samantha Yee and Mrs Mary Hassall, parents and friends.

The Senior School Jazz Band played in the background to set the tone, while guests dressed in College colours mingled under red, white and blue bunting and lanterns.

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College community events

College community events

Pymble hosts charity of hope “Uplifting”, “moving” and “inspiring” were just some of the reactions from the 500-plus students, parents and friends of Pymble who attended the 100% hOPE Children’s Concert on the evening of Monday 23 May in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts.

The choir of visiting Ugandan orphans performed traditional African music, acapella singing, drumming and contemporary hip-hop dancing and also combined talents with Pymble Choral and Dance groups in a unique cultural experience that brought tears to the eyes of many.

Biggest morning tea for 2200-plus!

Community spirit, generosity and fun and games were in abundance at the Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea held on the Main Oval on the morning of Wednesday 18 May.

This year we raised over $4,000 for Cancer Council Australia – almost $1,000 more than the previous year.

Approximately 200 parents and guests joined our 2000-plus Kindergarten to Year 12 students, along with teachers and staff for light refreshments and to enjoy a repertoire of songs from our Preparatory School Choir, as well as a variety of novelty races and maypole activities.

Attendees – many of whom were decked out in Pymble’s red, blue and white – were also treated to a performance by our special guests, 100% hOPE Children’s Choir who were visiting from their homeland, Uganda (see story, over page).

The role of Master of Ceremonies was shared by Pymble Co-Captains of Community Service, Anna Maxwell and Joanna Bradley (Year 12) and Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters awarded prizes for best dressed students and staff.

The 100% hOPE charity was founded in 2004 by Australian mother of two, Trishelle Sayuuni with the aim of supporting Ugandan children who have lost their parents to the HIV/ AIDS epidemic. The charity currently provides 170 Ugandan orphans with a home, an education and the necessary skills for life and a self-sufficient future.

The group was touring Australia to raise funds to build five additional classrooms for their school. Trishelle, her children and the 100% hOPE choir were accommodated within Pymble’s historic Avonmoore House during their week-long Sydney visit and, as anyone who met them will attest, won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

Cultural network unites parents Pymble’s Cultural Community Network (CCN) was established in 2014 to provide a support network for families from different cultures and nationalities, many of whom speak English as their second language and may not have close family living nearby.

The first CCN lunch for the year was held at Eden Gardens at North Ryde on Monday 23 May, attended by 70-plus parents as well as Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and several Pymble staff. The second luncheon was at Avondale Golf Club on Friday 14 October.

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On both occasions, guests gathered to connect with new and existing friends from a diverse range of a cultural backgrounds, including China, Korea, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, South Africa and New Zealand, to name a few.

In a welcome to guests, Mrs Waters acknowledged that some parents experienced the same feelings as their daughters about fitting in and making friends. “That’s the joy of Pymble – everybody is welcome,” she said To find out more about our Cultural Community Network, visit the CCN page on our website.

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College community events

College community events

It was the party of the Centenary!

Our annual Garden Party is a much-loved tradition that unites the whole community – and this year’s event delivered in spades.

The College grounds were alive with the happy chatter of thousands of visitors who made the most of the stunning spring day and the host of attractions on offer.

Young visitors had a ball taking turns on the rides and slides on the Main Oval, petting the farmyard animals and having their arms, hands or fingers plastered – and decorated!

– by the physiotherapists at the Casualty Clearing Station.

Visitors also enjoyed viewing the impressive cake and cake box decorating competition entries and the student art exhibition, as well as guessing the weight of the steers at the agriculture students’ unprecendented livestock display.

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Culturally-diverse food options ranged from gourmet barbecue favourites, to souvlaki, Japanese, Korean and Sri Lankan delights and, of course, plenty of coffee, cakes and baked goods.

The Portobello Road markets on Marden Lawn offered a delightful al fresco shopping experience and live entertainment included performances from Pymble choral groups, quartets and bands as well as our friends from across the road, the Knox Pipe Band.

Hundreds of Pymble students, parents and staff were out in force to ensure the day ran smoothly, proudly manning their stalls and volunteering as convenors and helpers for the numerous stalls, displays and activities.

The College extends heartfelt thanks to all involved for their time, effort and commitment to hosting such a memorable day. We couldn’t be more proud of Team Pymble!

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Sports and Activities highlights

Sports and Activities highlights

Tildesley Shield tennis triumph The Tildesley Shield Tennis tournament has a long history dating back to 1918 and Pymble has been a part of this tournament from that date.

Pymble had a relatively new squad in 2016 however, due to 16 of our Year 12 tennis players leaving at the end of the 2015 season.

Both our singles and doubles players achieved outstanding results over the three days of the tournament and it was with great excitement that the Pymble Tildesley Tennis Team finished in second place. This is one of the best results for the College since our first and only win in 1997.

During the year, many of our girls were fortunate to spend time with their sporting heroes in a range of mentoring sessions held at the College.

Special mention to Gabriella Da Silva-Fick who made it through to the Semi Finals of the Single draw.

Look who’s mentoring Pymble girls Ex-student and dual-international athlete, Ellyse Perry (2008) enjoyed a rigorous training session with students to demonstrate the new software system installed in the Braith Williams Aquatic and Fitness Centre. This state-of-the art software is used by elite athletes all over the world and will enable our coaching teams to track how each athlete is performing, minimise her risk of injuries and tailor individual programs to help her achieve her personal best.

AFL legends support Aboriginal scholars Former Australian Football League legends Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin visited the school earlier in the year to offer support and encouragement to students – and to impart a few tips and tricks of their trade.

Indigenous Scholarship holders from Pymble and several neighbouring schools enjoyed an energetic AFL skills session on the Main Oval with their heroes, followed by an informal dinner in the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building.

Adam and Michael also spoke from the heart to the girls about overcoming personal challenges and the importance of making the most of opportunities.

Adam and Michael’s visit was a great bonding and mentoring experience, in keeping with Pymble’s commitment to providing a balanced education that equally values academic, sporting and cultural excellence for each girl.

Did you know?

Fresh from the Rio 2016 Olympics, ex-student Genevieve Horton (2012) returned to Pymble to share her experience with students attending Out of School Hours Care (OSHC). Genevieve spoke about how she first discovered a love of rowing at Pymble, which led to her place in the Australian rowing team, competing in Double Sculls. The girls also enjoyed looking at Genevieve’s medals from various competitions.

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Olympic silver medallist and former world breaststroke champion Christian Sprenger also made a quite a splash, spending two hours in a training session with the White Squad ahead of their Sydney Metro North East Championships. The session focused on hydrodynamics, including using correct body position, core strength, angles of limbs and timing of strokes to help swimmers travel faster through water.

Adam and Michael’s visit to Pymble was in partnership with the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) and their own Go Foundation. Currently, 19 students at Pymble hold Indigenous Scholarships, which we offer in partnership with AIEF.

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Sports and Activities highlights

Sports and Activities highlights

In a league of their own

A whole new world of opportunities

Pymble enjoys large participation in strong football teams and 2016 was no exception. We entered 23 teams in the Independent Girls’ Schools Sporting Association (IGSSA) competition, where our Senior First and Year 7 First teams both placed first and our undefeated Junior First team placed second.

In line with our commitment to sustainability and achieving Green Star status, the new Braith Williams Aquatic and Fitness Centre incorporates 768 solar panels providing 200 kilowatts of solar energy. This is equivalent to the power required to operate 82 average households annually.

Our Senior First team also entered the NSW Combined Independent Schools Sports Council (NSWCIS) knockout event held throughout Term 2. Our team won their way through the round matches and semi-finals to progress to the final against The Illawarra Grammar School. Our team played exceptionally well, winning the final 8-1 and gaining the title of NSWCIS Champion School.

Three Pymble students went on to represent IGSSA at the CIS Secondary Football Championships. The IGSSA team won the competition and at the conclusion of the two days, Olivia Carolan, Emily Bastow and Rachel Lowe were selected in the CIS team.

The CIS team went on to compete against NSW Combined High Schools and NSW Combined Catholic Colleges at the NSW All Schools Football Championships – and for the first time in the history of the competition NSWCIS won the event.

Congratulations to Rachel Lowe who was named Most Valuable Player and who was subsequently selected in the NSW All Schools and Australian School Girls teams.

Our new state-of-the-art Braith Williams Aquatic and Fitness Centre within the Centenary Sports Precinct offers a world of opportunities for students of every age and ability level. Our Learn to Swim pool is open to the Pymble community and the general public. The 50m swimming pool features an Olympic-standard touch timing system, which monitors results in the custom-built control room.

The spacious Fitness Centre includes a 21m running track with shock absorption flooring; functional weights area; cardio machines; and world-class athletetracking software designed to maximise performance and minimise injury.

The Centre also makes it easier for parents and visitors to enjoy watching their young athletes, with an enlarged grandstand to seat approximately 700 people; big screen television; reverse cycle heat recovery air conditioners; wheelchair access to all levels via the lift; and secure undercover parking for 200-plus cars.

We brought home the Bill Turner Cup! Pymble won the NSW division of the Bill Turner Football Cup! The Bill Turner cup is played Australia-wide with more than 400 schools entered into the Under 15s knockout competition. Our team played nine matches over Terms 2 and 3 to reach the final and played some outstanding football to defeat Hunter Sports High School 4-2. Congratulations on an outstanding tournament, girls.

Dancing their way to the top Our Jazz White routine ‘Chandelier’, choreographed by Mr Mitchell Dellevergin, followed the journey of a teenager looking at her young self and being reminded to have fun and to embrace innocence. The symbolic use of the white balloons, floating around the heights of the stage and then being Our Contemporary White routine, magically drawn into the dancers, choreographed by Miss Shelley Moore, provided a huge technical challenge explored the theme of ‘Displacement’ in for our dancers. Each dancer was also a unanimous representation of a refugee cleverly choreographed to seamlessly plight – from war, destruction, separation reveal a change in costume colour, and loss through to new beginnings. from grey to white.

Our two White Eisteddfod Dance Groups couldn’t put a foot wrong this year, winning both the High School Jazz and Contemporary Sections for the second year running, and being invited to compete in the Dance of Champions at Sydney Eisteddfod.

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Chandelier was awarded Best Choreography at DanceLife Unite and People’s Choice at Dance of Champions.

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Black Watch Ties

Ex-Students’ Union Inc.

President’s Report My term of three years as President of the ESU has come to an end. This completed eight consecutive years on the ESU Committee which have been an honour and a privilege.

The incredible support of the various committee members over the years and throughout the College has been prodigious. I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the community and seeing the interest and passion they have in the College, a culture that is nurtured through our many events and associations.

When I joined the Committee in 2008, I never imagined I would finish my tenure as President, a role that has been personally rewarding, especially during the College’s Centenary year. We have enjoyed many celebratory activities and events, starting with the Foundation Day Service on the 100th birthday of the College, Monday 8 February 2016. It was wonderful to see the College Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and Chair of College Council, Mr Braith Williams and other staff dressed in period costume from the early 1900s. Vicki and Braith arrived at the Flagpole Lawn in a horse-drawn carriage, reminiscent of 1916. All the Preparatory School girls stood around the perimeter of the Main Oval and waved on with excitement as the carriage rode past.

From that point onwards, the year has continued with a feeling of excitement, importance and relevance as to what it means to be a Pymble girl, as well as a focus on how traditions have continued while education has moved forward. It has also been a year of even stronger ties and connections, with many ex-students taking the opportunity to visit the College, hold their reunion or participate in one of the many Centenary events.

On Friday 8 April, the Centenary Sports Precinct was officially opened by Chair of College Council, Mr Braith Williams and our ‘oldest’ old girl, Miss Bertie Lloyd (1928). The opening of this world-class facility marks a new generation of education and opportunities for all Pymble girls and is the result of a decade of planning, design and construction.

Representing the excellence and vision that has been a hallmark of Pymble for the past century, the Centenary Sports Precinct will improve and expand the delivery of core and cocurricular activities at the College.

I was honoured in my capacity as President of the ESU to unveil the Centenary Sports Precinct artwork that was donated by the ESU Committee on behalf of all ex-students of the College. This statue represents all of you and your time at the College and, of course, all current and future students who will one day be ex-students too.

Events and Reunions Foundation Day Pupil’s Lunch Wednesday 17 February On 8 February 1916, 60 girls started at Presbyterian Ladies’ College, which was the name of our College at that time. There were 40 day girls and 20 Boarders, who eagerly anticipated the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead of them.

It was with great pride that we welcomed to a very special lunch in February more than 30 descendants of the original Foundation pupils, including Margaret Coleman OAM (1946), Winifred Ross (Allworth, 1949) and Judith Nettleton (Moore, 1957), all daughters of Foundation pupils. We were equally delighted to share the day with Lily Rogers, currently in Year 11 and great granddaughter of Foundation pupil, Clara Rogers (Moore, 1919). In addition, we welcomed Bertie Lloyd (1928) and Joan Gay (Gown, 1929), aged respectively 103 and 102, our oldest known living ex-students!

Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters addressed the gathering and spoke of the importance of the ties of generations to the College – a number of families attending the College now represent fourth and fifth generations of Pymble girls. The lunch was a historic and fitting milestone in our Centenary year.

Another highlight was the annual Commemoration Day Service, which this year was followed by a Centenary Luncheon. Attendance at the service was at an all-time high, reflecting the engagement of ex-students from all eras in celebrating 100 years of College history. The Back to Boarding weekend was also held to correspond with the Commemoration Day Service weekend which was attended by boarders who left the College between 1950 and 1989.

I would like to take this final opportunity to thank our Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and the ESU Committee for their support and commitment to creating a cohesive and meaningful environment where our mutual endeavours are achieved. I have enjoyed serving the exstudents of the College and I will certainly stay connected.

Thank you for all of your generous support. All’ Ultimo Lavoro.

Katrina Corcoran (Hum, 1987) PRESIDENT

Pymble Ladies’ College Ex-Students’ Union Inc esu@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or PO Box 6233, Pymble NSW 2073

Foundation Day Pupil’s Lunch

Indigenous Morning Tea Wednesday 2 March Each year the ESU funds the school uniforms of new Indigenous girls who

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commence at the College. On 2 March the ESU Committee hosted a morning tea for the 19 Indigenous Scholarship students in the Secondary School to establish a personal connection between the ESU and the students.

This year all Indigenous Scholarship donors and key staff were invited to attend. The girls delighted guests with their passion, drive and excitement about their journey at the College. It certainly is rewarding to see how proud these girls are to wear the Pymble uniform.

Thank you to all of you who contribute towards this worthy cause. If you are interested in knowing more about this initiative, please contact alumnirelations@ pymblelc.nsw.edu.au

Indigenous Morning Tea

A sumptuous afternoon tea, a rousing rendition of the School Song and a memorabilia viewing brought a perfect day to a memorable close. Sincere thanks to Mr and Mrs Schirato, current owners of Ingleholme, who kindly opened their home to us for the day.

Charlotte was an inspirational presenter, not only enabling us to get a clear understanding of what it takes to be successful in the food industry but also to appreciate the amazing opportunities we have at Pymble and the importance of friendships that we have formed.

Ingleholme Reunion

Mothers’ and Grandmothers’ Morning Tea Wednesday 30 March Each year Pymble hosts a morning tea to celebrate the mothers and grandmothers who are ex-students and who have a daughter or granddaughter presently attending the College. This year the girls were invited to have morning tea with their mothers and/or grandmothers in the Heritage Centre at the College. Attendance was at a record high with more than 110 mothers and grandmothers present along with Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters.

Ingleholme Reunion Wednesday 16 March Words cannot begin to describe what a memorable day we enjoyed when 160 exstudents and staff reunited at Ingleholme, formerly Pymble Ladies’ College Junior School from 1960 until its closure in 1976.

Reminiscing about the special staff within this unique learning environment was one of the highlights of the day. It was a delight to see Helen Grant, former Mistress in Charge of Ingleholme, following Miss Janet Pettit.

Each ex-student thoroughly enjoyed sharing her own special memories of her time at Ingleholme: Christmas celebrated with ivy and big red ribbons; assemblies on the stairs; and singing carols in the front hall. It was evident that guests share a special bond which was rekindled at this very special Centenary event.

Charlotte began her food styling and catering business, Ortho’s Table, in her mum’s kitchen and networked with her friends from Pymble to help make the business a success. Last year, Charlotte and her partner featured with great success on the renovation show The Block.

Mothers’ and Grandmothers’ Morning Tea

Ex-student Food Stylist Visits Pymble In Term 4 2015, we were delighted to have Charlotte Ekas (2007), visit the Year 11 Food Technology classes and share her experiences of working in the food industry.

Charlotte studied Food Technology and Hospitality through to the HSC and loved both courses so much she decided to pursue a career in the food industry.

Ex-student Food Stylist Visits Pymble

UK and Europe Reunion Saturday 7 May 2016 On a beautiful day in London, 40 exstudents gathered at Tredwell’s Restaurant near Covent Garden for a luncheon. The event was attended by Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and Alumni Relations Manager, Mrs Katrina Corcoran. A variety of ex-students attended, from a 1945 Leaver through to 2015 Leavers, and one ex-student flew in from Switzerland. New friendships and re-connections were formed amongst old friends.

Everyone who attended the luncheon greatly valued the connectivity of the College despite living in the UK or Europe, and they enjoyed hearing Mrs Vicki Waters’ updates regarding education at Pymble and the new Centenary Sports Precinct.

UK and Europe Reunion

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Black Watch Ties

Ex-Students’ Union Inc.

Pymble in Hong Kong Tuesday 10 May 2016

Class of 1954 30-year Reunion Saturday 16 April 2016

In May, Pymble held its annual Hong Kong event for ex-students, current families and future and prospective families at Hotel Icon, Kowloon. Of the 100 attendees, there were many ex-students from a variety of leaving years and all with such knowledge and fond memories of their time at the College that they could impart to future and prospective families. Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters gave a presentation to the guests about life at the College and the recently opened Centenary Sports Precinct.

On a lovely sunny autumn day, 24 exstudents from the class of 1954 returned to Pymble for their Centenary Luncheon.

Canberra Regional Reunion Saturday 26 March 2016 Almost 40 ex-students attended this luncheon, during which the sun shone, the glasses clinked and conversation flowed.

Attendees included some ex-students from PLC Goulburn and Croydon, who were warmly welcomed. The oldest ex-student in attendance was Shirley Francis, who left Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Croydon in 1940. Jean Jenkins (Waite, 1947) was our oldest Pymble girl and Anntonette Dailey (Joseph, 2001) our youngest.

We were delighted that Pymble’s Alumni Relations Manager, Mrs Katrina Corcoran and Director – Community Engagement, Mrs Kelly Mancey could join us. We all gathered to sing the School Song with Katrina holding high the words on a tea towel to aid our memories! Even the Goulburn and Croydon attendees joined in.

Katrina presented beautiful bunches of flowers to Ali Watson (Ferguson, 1963) and Louise Allison (1963) to thank them for organising the event. Special thanks to Ali, who did all the work!

Walking down the Centenary Walkway we enjoyed finding our ‘class of 1954’ Centenary Brick. We were then given a guided tour of the magnificent new Centenary Sports Precinct. We were very envious of the beautiful clear and clean pool and told our guide how the pool was unfiltered and very muddy when we were at Pymble. When we did our Bronze Medallion and had to dive for the brick, we duck-dived down and felt along the bottom of the pool for it! The Mollie Dive Field with modern grass surface accommodating a hockey field, 12 tennis courts and soccer field, all on top of a huge car park, is a wonderful asset.

When we were at Pymble we thought we were fortunate girls, but the girls of today and in the future are very fortunate indeed.

After walking back to the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building, we sat down for a delicious lunch during which we enjoyed the camaraderie of the day and caught up on all the news. Sue Thorne (Saville, 1954) and Helen Evans (Kellett, 1954) came from Mudgee for the day, kindly driven by Sue’s daughter Cindy, and Joan Power (Marshall, 1954) came from Bowral.

One lovely celebration which took place this year was at Burnt Orange, Mosman where a group of 1985 ex-students and their mothers met up for lunch and a chance to reminisce about their time as ex-students and past parents at Pymble.

A wonderful time was had by all!

In attendance:

Priscilla Taylor (Meyers, 1986)

Lifelong friendships are one of the enduring features of being a Pymble ex-student.

Often ex-students remain friends for many years after they have left the College and we regularly hear about celebrations locally and across the globe.

• Jane Colyer (Graham, 1985) with her mother Heather Graham (Kerr, 1956) • Prue Wedlock (Johns, 1985) with her mother, Roz Skinner • Emma Borley (Laurie, 1985) with her mother, Barbara Laurie • Philippa Fell (Lane, 1985) with her mother, Merrilyn Lane • Sarah Robinson (Bato, 1985) with her mother, Barbara Bato • Amanda Allsop (1985) with her mother, Irene Allsop.

Mini Reunion of 1985 Leavers at Burnt Orange

Class of 1986 Reunion Saturday 9 April The class of 1986 held their reunion in April.

We started with an afternoon tour of the College, including the Centenary Sports Precinct, Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts, Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building and the Science Centre. For many ex-students, it was the first time they had seen these buildings. For Boarders, it was a perfect opportunity for reminiscing while revisiting Lang House and the Dining Hall.

For more information about ESU events and reunions visit www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au 66 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

Class of 1986 Reunion

Class of 1976 Orange Reunion Saturday 16 July 2016

Class of 1976 Orange Reunion

Brisbane Reunion Saturday 13 August 2016 What a beautiful day for a luncheon by the river for the Brisbane Reunion. We had a lovely range of leaving years attend from our ‘oldest’ ex-student, Lyle Humphreys (Allen, 1944) to our ‘newest’ ex-student, Zara Tonkin (2011). Our College Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters attended and made a lovely speech to everyone about our Centenary year and all the exciting events that have been happening, including the news about our ex-students and current student who were competing in the Rio 2016 Olympics at the time. Singing the School Song certainly entertained everyone as some tried to remember the words and others still knew them off by heart. A sincere thank you to Helen Cooper (Witten, 1961) for all her wonderful organisation and to everyone who turned up.

Despite ominous predictions of rain and possibly even snow (probably intended to frighten the city slickers!), Orange bathed the class of 1976 in beautiful sunshine with a refreshing crispness in the air. Orange is a renowned food and wine centre and it did not disappoint.

Jacqueline Farrar (Molyneux, 1954)

Class of 1954 30-year Reunion

Class of 1986 Reunion (continued) The reunion was held on Saturday night at The Treehouse, North Sydney. We almost made it to a century for the Centenary, with 99 people attending from overseas, interstate and all over NSW. This was a fabulous turnout and a great night was had by all, with lots of laughter and memories shared. It has been proposed that we hold an informal gathering once a year and a more formal reunion for the milestone years. Details of the informal gatherings will be sent to everyone on our contact list and notified in the newsletter. For anyone that couldn’t make it to this reunion, we look forward to catching up with you in the not-too-distant future.

We had a very happy day together and everyone is looking forward to our 65th Reunion in 2019.

Louise Allison (1963)

Canberra Regional Reunion

Mini Reunion of 1985 Leavers at Burnt Orange Friday 26 February 2016

The girls from the Central West excelled themselves organising a wonderful itinerary of delicious food, wine, sightseeing and company and of course reliving wonderful memories. Forty years slipped away and the (loud) conversation continued all weekend. From the relaxed Friday night home-cooked dinner in the local hall to an outstanding French feast at a beautiful old-style convent on the outskirts, the 40 Pymble girls enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime weekend.

Wendy Dreyfus (Sherman, 1976)

Brisbane Reunion

Class of 1946 70-year Reunion Saturday 20 August 2016 A noisy lunch with laughter and many ‘do you remembers’ was held in the Heritage Centre, a place which was not yet built in our time at school. Before lunch, several attendees took the opportunity to admire the alumNOW2016 Centenary Art Exhibition and to acknowledge our clever ex-students.

The occasion of the gathering was to

celebrate 70 years since we left school and were sent out into the world with ‘Knocky’s’ words of wisdom ringing in our ears.

Some came on ‘walkers’, some brought their daughters to help and another had a husband to guide her hand. And we all had fun; 20 in all. Memories were shared when we thought of absent friends and we rather wondered if another reunion was possible, before deciding – why not! So we are aiming high for the years ahead. Perhaps the College will have more than doubled in size again. Cheers to all the others who could not join us due to ‘age creep’.

Margaret Coleman OAM (1946)

Class of 1946 70-year Reunion

Class of 2011 5-year Reunion Saturday 10 September 2016 It seems like just yesterday that the class of 2011 was graduating from Pymble. Five years on and more than 100 girls came together at Treehouse Hotel, North Sydney to reminisce, catch up and share stories of life beyond Pymble. It was amazing to see the diverse paths everyone had travelled thus far – university students, teachers, doctors-to-be, archeologists, world travellers and even a Rio 2016 Gold medallist! I can’t wait to hear the stories everyone will have at reunions in years to come. Thank you to Diya Pacheco (2011) and Christina Guo (2011), who has started her own photography company, Sketch & Run, for the lovely photos.

Phoebe Katelaris (2011)

Class of 2011 5-year Reunion

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Black Watch Ties Class of 1956 60-year Reunion Saturday 10 September 2016 Recently, forty of us gathered together again after 60 years. Some of our friends travelled from Melbourne, Goondiwindi, Warren, Nana Glen and The Rock. It is so obvious how much we enjoy being together. The strength of our friendships is quite inspiring – we look after each other, and together we can laugh away our troubles. I hear warmth and caring in people’s voices as they talk about their friends. There were many laughs and we shared very happy memories of our school days, Miss Knox and our wonderful teachers. We paused to remember our friends who are no longer with us. Thank you so much to Alumni Relations Manager, Mrs Katrina Corcoran for her everthoughtful attention to our needs. Thank you to our school for letting us use the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building for our lunch and to the current Boarding students who guided us on a tour of the College. We were able to tell the Chaplains that we ‘helped’ build the Chapel – well, we carried one brick each up the stairs in 1954 when the conveyor belt broke down!

Elspeth Richards (Child, 1956)

Class of 1956 60-year Reunion

New York Reunion Saturday 10 September 2016 This year, our New York Reunion saw twenty-seven ex-students gather for brunch at Calle Ocho restaurant on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Attendees ranged from those who had left Pymble in the 1950s to those who had left as recently as last year. While some of the attendees lived in New York City, many had travelled quite a distance to be there including from Toronto, Canada, Miami, Boston, upstate New York, Connecticut and New Jersey. The atmosphere on the day was

Ex-Students’ Union Inc. amazing. There was great excitement in the air and immediate camaraderie as we remembered and shared stories of our days at Pymble. There was also the added bond of being far away from where we all grew up. It was fascinating to hear the different stories of how each person had come to be living in the USA or Canada. Some of the attendees had been living overseas for decades, others had come more recently for job appointments or family and some of the attendees were studying at American universities. Also among us were exstudents from the USA and other countries who had lived in Australia for a period of time and had attended Pymble. They all had so many fond memories! Lots of wonderful networking took place and new friendships were formed. We were still reminiscing and sharing stories well into the late afternoon.

Everyone agreed the day was a great success and is keen for it to grow and become a regular event for Pymble ex-students in the USA or Canada. Our thanks to both the College Principal, Mrs Vicki Waters and Alumni Relations Manager, Mrs Katrina Corcoran for organising this terrific event.

Kate Lanceley (1987)

New York Reunion

Class of 1996 20-year Reunion Saturday 24 September 2016 A long lunch at Vine in Double Bay was the perfect occasion for the 84 ladies who attended the 20-year Reunion of the Class of 1996. It was incredible to reunite with so many familiar faces. There were a number of interstate travellers coming from as far as Perth, as well as a handful who flew in from Hong Kong. There were lucky door prizes and a dynamic speech from our Head Prefect, Sophie Anderson (1996) before we were enticed collectively into singing the School Song (thanks Cristina

Piccioli). The celebrations continued after lunch with DJ entertainment into the evening and goodie bags containing lovely products donated by ex-students who are now marketing managers. Overall, it was a successful day and one I’m sure no-one will forget.

Erica Britton-Johnson (1996)

10 years on, the class of 2006 caught up over drinks and canapés at the Grand National Hotel in Paddington. Seventy of us gathered to share wonderful and diverse experiences over the past 10 years. A special thank you to Joanna Mackenzie (2006), Liz Astey (2006), Amy Dreverman (2006) and Danielle Matthews (2006) for organising a lovely and memorable evening.

Ashley Radich (2006)

Darling Downs, Granite Belt and Northern NSW Reunion Saturday 8 October 2016 The annual luncheon for ex-students who live on the Darling Downs, Granite Belt and in Northern NSW was held at Kingfishers Restaurant, Toowoomba. A total of 17 ladies gathered for the event.

Our photo was taken late in the afternoon after a number of ladies had left. The 2017 Reunion will take place on Saturday 14 October in Toowoomba.

Helen Gibson (Colton, 1963)

Perth Reunion Saturday 29 October It was a beautiful sunny afternoon in Perth, WA when almost 20 ex-students gathered for afternoon tea at PLC, Perth for the Pymble Perth Reunion. We had a lovely range of leavers from a 2002 leaver to a 1947 leaver, all with different stories as to how they made the move and settled in Perth. Thank you to PLC Perth Principal, Dr Kate Hadwen who attended on the day along with Mrs Kelly Mancey, Director Community Engagement and Mrs Katrina Corcoran, Alumni Relations Manager at Pymble Ladies’ College.

Katrina Corcoran (Hum, 1987)

Class of 1996 20-year Reunion

Class of 1976 40-year Reunion Sunday 16 October 2016 The most popular song 40 years ago was the catchy Love will Keep us Together

by Captain and Tennille, and love (not to mention gorgeous sunshine) was all around at the class of 1976 reunion. Seventy-three girls savoured the delights of delicious food, conversation and memories at a Sunday lunch in the Senior School Centre, Kate Mason Building at Pymble. It was a remarkable turnout for a year with 107 original students. Acknowledged as a particularly friendly cohort who have kept in touch, the class of 1976 also had a country reunion in Orange in August 2016.

During a tour of the school many girls took the opportunity to recreate the infamous daily ritual of sunbaking their legs lathered in coconut oil in the amphitheatre! A very special day was had by all – and the girls are already contemplating the possibilities for the 45-year reunion!

Class of 2006 10-year Reunion

Class of 1981 35-year Reunion Saturday 8 October 2016 Ex-students from the class of 1981 celebrated their 35th reunion at Greenwood Hotel, North Sydney.

Travelling from across Australia and Asia, the ‘old girls’ enjoyed reminiscing over school photos, the school calendar and teachers from Pymble Ladies’ College.

For some, this was their first reunion since graduation and now friendships have been reignited with further catch-ups planned.

Lee Crane (Jones, 1981)

Darling Downs Reunion

Melbourne Reunion Sunday 9 October 2016

Perth Reunion

Eighteen delightful ex-students gathered for the Melbourne Reunion at the Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club in Toorak.

We had a variety of leaving years from 1946 to 2009 and several were Boarders.

Sincere thanks to Sally Totman Marshall (Totman, 1993) and Meredith Hayes (Bruce, 1978) who again organised the event, and to Sally for bringing along a book every year to be signed by all attendees – a tradition which started back in the 1940s.

Katrina Corcoran (Hum, 1987)

Class of 1981 35-year Reunion Melbourne Reunion Class of 1976 40-year Reunion

For more information about ESU events and reunions visit www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au 68 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

Class of 2006 10-year Reunion Saturday 8 October 2016

If you would like to organise a reunion for your year group please contact Katrina Corcoran, Alumni Relations Manager E: alumnirelations@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or call 02 9855 7304. We are delighted to help you with the arrangements.

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Announcements Engagements Ellise Roach (2006) to Nicholas Delaney (Knox Grammar School, 2006). They became engaged at Niagara Falls while on holidays, and will be married next summer.

Marriages

Vale Eliza O’Shea (2006) and Will Treloar were married on 27 February 2016 in the Pymble Ladies’ College War Memorial Chapel. All three bridesmaids were Pymble girls; Sarah Hedges (2006), Ashleigh Meakin (2006) and Samantha Alvaro (2006). Eliza and Will now live in Tamworth.

Tamsin Thorn (2000) married Andrew Smith on 26 March 2016 at Palm Beach.

Tamsin was attended by her sister Amie Easy (Thorn 1997) and good friends Lauren Langman and Eva Jarolim.

Alicia Jane Cale (2010) married Jack Meredith on 29 May 2016 at Gunners Barracks, Georges Heights.

Tamsin and Andrew

Eliza and Will Alicia and Jack

Amy Conroy (1994) married Neil Watts in the Pymble Ladies’ College War Memorial Chapel, joined by family and friends on a perfect spring day. Students contributed to the day with a string quartet and vocals.

Natalia Scheidegger (2006) married Morgan Forrest on 5 September 2015 at Jaspers, Berry. Natalia was attended by her Pymble friends, Jacqueline Lipman (2006) and Caitlin Binsted (Rossler, 2013).

Rebecca Wilson (2004) and Shane Anderson were married in the Pymble Ladies’ College War Memorial Chapel on 28 February 2016 followed by a reception at Altitude Restaurant, Shangri La Hotel.

Rebecca was attended by her sister Emma Maguire (Wilson, 2006), and Helen Parker.

Rebecca and Shane Amy and Neil

Claire Jackman (2011) married Ryan Yeomans on 30 April 2016 in the Pymble Ladies’ College War Memorial Chapel. She was delighted to also have her bridesmaids Emily Jackman (2008), Kate Buchanan, Anna Jackman (2013) and Laura McLean (2010) with her. After the wedding Claire and Ryan enjoyed a honeymoon in Port Douglas.

Natalia and Morgan

Georgia Sunito (2010) married Edward Luk on 7 November 2015 at St Thomas’ Anglican Church, North Sydney. Georgia was attended by her sister, Bianca, who has started Year 7 at the College and her bridesmaids, Vanessa Vay, Joanna Chan and Yolanda Zhu (2010).

Births Alexandra Fletcher (1999) and her husband Anthony Wicht are delighted to welcome their daughter, Gwynevere Gail, born on 22 October 2015. She is a little sister to Henry.

Ellen Hickson (Conway, 1996) and her husband Wade are delighted to announce the birth of their son, Daniel Joseph, on 20 April 2015. A younger brother to Emily.

Joula Howard (Dekker, 2000) and her husband Mark are delighted to announce the birth of their daughter, April Josephine Howard on 19 November 2015.

Georgia and Edward Claire and Ryan

Kristy Ward (Elsey, 2000) and husband Brandon are delighted to announce the birth of their second son, Adam Stirling on 19 April 2015. A younger brother to Scotty.

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Barbara Ruth Adam (1953) passed away on 17 January 2016, the day before her 82nd birthday. Dearly beloved by friends and family and much loved by her sister, Jocelyn. Barbara was a Boarder at the College from 1947 to 1952, a valued member of the College community and dearly cherished by her peers.

Kim Anderson (1982) passed away on 7 January 2016 and will be dearly missed by her husband, Blue and son, Rusty. Kim was a Boarder during her four years at Pymble and was also Head Boarder in 1982. After leaving school, Kim returned to country NSW and then finally to outback Queensland.

Dorothy Betty OAM (Worrall, 1942) passed away on 9 March 2016. Dorothy was a kind and well-loved student at the College who touched the lives of all those she met. Dorothy was active in the Pymble community, taking on the role of Ex-Students’ Union President in 1968 and attending various events at the College over the years. Her service was attended

by Deputy Principal, Mrs Julie Shaw, ESU President, Mrs Katrina Corcoran and two Year 11 students. Dorothy was a loving friend, a devoted mother and will be deeply missed by her son, David and daughter, Merilyn.

Judith Marjorie Bowman (Lufft, 1946) passed away on 17 January 2016. Judy was due to celebrate her 70-year school reunion this year. She adored her school and was still actively in touch with many of her old school friends. Judy is survived by her husband, Fred, daughters, Penny Bray (1974) and Susan Vass (Bray, 1977) and granddaughter, Ellen. Judy’s surviving sisters, Jan Taplin (Lufft, 1949) and Mary Louise Abrahams (Lufft, 1952) both attended Pymble.

Jennifer Anne Brayshaw (King, 1952) passed away in the United Kingdom on 2 November 2015 in her 82nd year. Jennifer was a dearly beloved wife and a cherished mother of son, David.

Joan “Bunty” Cooke (Buchanan, 1937) passed away on 8 June 2016 just shy of her 97th birthday. Bunty began her schooling at Pymble in Year 2 and finished Year 10 in 1937. She shares a special place in

College history as the first Head Prefect to be appointed by Principal, Miss Dorothy Knox, who assumed her position in 1936.

Bunty was held in very high esteem by Miss Knox and their special bond continued beyond the gates of Pymble over lunches throughout the years. Bunty was President of the ESU from 1965 to 1967 and Treasurer from 1954 to 1964, during which time she was known for “extracting every penny and making them count,” according to her friend, Miss Margaret Coleman OAM (1946).

Bunty was married to Peter Cooke (dec) and spent the last several years at Anglicare Chesalon Nursing Home at Beecroft, where she was visited regularly by her friend Mrs Alison Hale (Nield, 1943). She is survived by their son, Tony, daughter-in-law, Helen and grandsons, Graeme, Stephen and Daniel.

The family held a private cremation for Bunty, who will be sorely missed.

Averill Edwards (1956) passed away peacefully after a long illness on 27 April 2016. Averill attained her BA Dip Ed and spent time in her career as a Teacher Librarian in Sydney and then the National Library in Canberra. During the 1970s Averill had a three-year posting in the USA representing the National Library and giving her the opportunity to travel. Averill was active in Librarian professional groups and was elected to the Board of Education at the Synod in 1996 where she served for five years. Averill was fondly remembered at school as a talented girl. Much loved sister of Juliana Edwards (1954) and daughter of Stephen and Lilian (both deceased).

Patricia Harvey OAM (Vickery, 1945) passed away on 1 November 2015. Patricia boarded at Pymble (Goodlet House) from 1941 to 1945 and went on to serve Mosman Council for more than twenty years. She was first elected to Mosman Council in 1983 and had the distinction of being elected Mosman’s first female Mayor. Patricia did not restrict her local government activities to Mosman – she was a past member of the Local Government Association Executive (LGSA), a member of the Executive of the Sydney Coastal Councils Group from 1992 and its Chairperson from 1997-2007. She was appointed to several NSW state marine- and

maritime-based government boards and committees that included being inaugural chair of the Sydney Harbour Catchment Management Board in 2000. Patricia was also active in lobbying the Federal Government in relation to the future of Middle Head and Georges Heights and in 2002 was awarded an OAM for “service to local government administration, to environmental planning, particularly in the area of water management, and to the community of Mosman.” She was also awarded the Centenary Medal in 2003 and Local Government Outstanding Service Medal from the LGSA in 2006. Patricia was also made a life member of the NSW Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children in 1984 for her fundraising activities.

Phyllida Ives (FitzGerald, 1959) passed away on 27 October 2015, aged 72. The youngest daughter of the well-known poet RD FitzGerald, Phylli spent her childhood at Hunters Hill and attended Pymble as a day girl. She trained as a journalist and, with her first husband, took two years to sail in a very small boat to England, where she lived for some time. Back in Australia with her second husband, David, she lived in Canberra.

She suffered with multiple sclerosis for 40 years and spent much of that time confined to a wheelchair. Always cheerful, she endured what she called her ‘condition’ with fortitude and good grace. She died in Sydney, survived by her son, Jason, sister, Kerry Lovering OAM (FitzGerald, 1949) and brother, Desmond Ives.

Belinda Jane Johnston (Philip, 1976) passed away peacefully at home 8 May, 2015 after a tough battle with cancer, aged 56 years.

Belinda was a qualified nurse who spent a lifetime caring for others. She ran a number of women’s groups for cancer patients, women in blended families and young, unmarried mothers. She was also a qualified dental nurse, and in her spare time qualified for her boat licence, completed an offshore sailing and sea survival course as well as various international cooking courses.

Dearly loved wife of Scott, loving mother of James, Edward, Victoria and Harrison, cherished grandmother of George and loved sister of Katrina Whale (Philip, 1975).

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Black Watch Ties Vale Barbara Cassie Kelman (Milne, 1945) passed away peacefully on 28 June 2015, aged 88 years. Barbara loved Pymble and kept up with many of her Pymble friends.

She was a qualified speech pathologist (despite wanting to be an actress), a skilled horsewoman and volunteered with Riding for the Disabled. She also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, reading for the blind and as a supervisor at Bowral polling stations.

She loved being busy and continued to drive until she was 83 years old. Barbara is greatly missed by her daughters, Eve Kelman-Jones (Kelman, 1971) and Jane Kelman-Smith (Kelman, 1979) and her grandchildren.

Kerrie Lester (1971) passed away on 7 April 2016, aged 63. Her incredible talent and passion for the arts was felt by both staff and students, who recall Kerrie’s refusal to attend any other classes so she could stay in the art department and continue exploring and learning new techniques. Kerrie studied at the National Art School and the Alexander Mackie College between 1971 and 1975 and was deemed one of Mosman’s most loved artists. She held her first solo exhibition in 1976. In 2011 she won the acclaimed Wynne and Sulman Prizes as well as the Mosman Art Prize. In 2004 an exhibition at the Mosman Art Gallery titled “A Stitch in Time: Kerrie Lester’s World,” displayed her intricate hand stitched portraits that were contenders for the Archibald Prize 23 times. Kerrie was also shortlisted for the Portia Geach Memorial Award nine times. Kerrie’s painted portrait of former Principal, Mrs Gillian Moore still hangs in the College library.

Alexander Lindsay, former staff member at the College (1985-1999) tragically passed away from cancer at home in 2015, surrounded by his closest family. Alexander was the first male member of staff employed at the College in 1985. Alexander was commonly known as Mr Lindsay or ‘Dad’ and would answer to both. He taught science and senior physics for 15 years and his senior physics girls always held him in the highest and fondest regards, which was reflected by the sincere gifts he received every year from his students. His electric personality and kind heart will be

missed. His family remember him as a true gentleman and loving father to two sons, Rodney and Jeffrey and his stepdaughter, Irene Zalami (1996) and a devoted husband to his wife, Margaret Lindsay who was also a former science teacher at the College.

Reverend Andrew Robert (“Bob”) MacArthur passed away on 23 June 2016 at the age of 96. Bob was a much loved and highly respected pillar of Pymble Ladies’ College and the local Church community, having served the Pymble Presbyterian Church and later the Pymble Uniting Church from 1951 to 1985 with great distinction. Bob was appointed to become the first Chaplain of Pymble Ladies’ College in 1956 by then Principal Miss Dorothy Knox. He remained as Chaplain for the next 29 years, becoming a member of College Council in 1964. He retired from the Chaplaincy and Council in 1964 with a sound reputation of strong leadership, dedication and sensitivity, not to mention an incurable optimism and a delightful sense of humour that was adored by students, staff and parishioners alike. Throughout his life Bob was also very active in education and Church journalism, fulfilling several roles at Australian Universities and religious journals in addition to his work with the College and the local Church. Bob is survived by his son, Ian and daughter-in-law, Edwina, his daughter, Helen Goulden (Macarthur, 1972) and son-in-law, Douglas, his grandsons, William and Gordon MacArthur and his twin brother, John.

Shirley McCulloch (Busby, 1945) known as Buzzy, passed away peacefully on 24 September 2015, aged 86 years. Survived by her daughter, Debbie. Loved and missed by all.

Patricia O’Brien (Eaton, 1964) passed away on 12 July 2016, following a long illness.

She is fondly remembered by her 1964 classmates.

Shirley Dolan O’Toole (Bertinshaw, 1946) passed away 19 July 2015, aged 87 years.

Shirley was a very accomplished woman: a high school teacher; an Education

Programs Manager for women prisoners with the Department of Corrective services where she received a citation for outstanding service; an author; a mediator for the Community Justice Centre; a philanthropist; and a dedicated Church member. She gave her life to helping people less fortunate. Shirley is survived by her sons, Bruce and David.

Jill Paine (Maunder, 1952) passed away on 24 January 2016. Jill is dearly missed by her husband, John, daughters, Robyn Paine (1979) and Julie Paine (1981) and her five grandchildren.

Lenore Peden Buckle (Steel, 1943) December 1 1926 – January 12 2016.

Lenore was at school during the War years from 1939 to 1943. She travelled to school from Cremorne on the tram and then train to Pymble in an era when Pymble was a school where buildings and Boarding Houses looked out on paddocks with horses and cows. A young Miss Dorothy Knox was the Headmistress, and in addition to the daily routine of classes, an integral part of life was Miss Knox’s Air Raid Drill.

She personally supervised all girls and staff to the air raid shelter, located under the Colonnade, a unique experience!

Lenore fostered a love of music during her time at Pymble, studying violin and piano which was continued at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. She later married Frank Buckle and had three daughters, Josephine Beverley (Buckle, 1970), Gina Stanistreet (Buckle, 1972) and Frances Buckle (1975), all at Pymble during the 60s and 70s. Her granddaughters, Georgina Birrell (Stanistreet, 1998), Julia Stanistreet (2001) and Susan Beverley (2002) followed, and now a fourth generation, Georgie’s three girls, Madeleine, Claudia and Olivia are waiting to join a proud family tradition which assures the renewal of youth in the unending chain. Lenore also made wonderful friendships at school which lasted for over 70 years, and until recently lunched and played cards with her school friends. An inspiration to all her family and friends, she is greatly missed.

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Joan Valema Porter (Southwick, 1948) passed away in Melbourne on 9 September 2015, aged 84 years. Joan was a vivacious and outgoing student at the College. Some of her husband’s fondest memories are of Joan in her final years at the College hosting tennis club on Sunday afternoons at her family home and reflecting on the great memories and special moments that were shared.

The Porter family shares more than 105 years with the College as Joan’s father-inlaw and siblings sold their family apricot orchard to the Presbyterian Church for the College to be built. Joan will be very much missed by her friends and family and husband, John, who shared a wonderful 61 years with his wife.

Jill Sharp (Haes, 1947) passed away on 15 May 2016. Jill attended Pymble Ladies’ College from Kindergarten and was a proud member of the Pymble community. Her mother, Beryl Haes (Parkinson) attended Pymble from 1916, the foundation year of the College. Jill’s daughter, Julia Sharp (1981) attended Pymble and Jill’s granddaughter, Isabel Ryan is a current student in Year 8 and the fourth generation of the family to attend the school. Many of the friendships Jill made at school became lifelong and she always remembered her time at Pymble with great fondness and pride. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Lindy Stuart OAM (Stothart, 1960) passed away on 2 June 2016 in Sydney, aged 72.

Lindy attended Pymble from Kindergarten in 1949, graduating in 1960. She made many lifelong friendships during her school days and her memories of all aspects of school life were remembered with great fondness. Lindy enjoyed being a member of the Ex-Students’ Choir for many years as well as singing with the Sydney Philharmonia Festival Chorus.

During her life, she worked tirelessly for the Primary Club of Australia’s Charities Trust and in 2015 she was made a life member of the charity, which supports people with disabilities. In recognition of her work with the Primary Club and her work for many years as the Curator of ‘Botanica’ for the Royal Botanic Gardens, she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2015. Lindy also raised puppies for Guide Dogs NSW. She was a much loved wife, mother and grandmother of nine grandchildren.

Both her daughters, Abigail Studdert (Stuart, 1986) and Emilia Harrison (Stuart, 1987) attended Pymble as did her eldest granddaughter, Claudia Studdert (2015).

She was loved by many people, none more so than her family, and made a significant difference to the lives of others.

Lindy’s life was celebrated on 9 June 2016.

Lorina Margaret (“Peg”) Sharp (1932) passed away on 20 February 2015, just four months shy of her 100th birthday.

Known as Lori at school, she was the first of four generations to attend Pymble with her sisters, Eleanora (“Nell”) Park (Sharp, 1928) and Nancy Watson (Sharp, 1933), both deceased. Peg was a beloved aunt to Rosemary Park, David Watson, Clare Docker (Watson, 1960) and Jenny Watson (1964), great aunt of six and great-great aunt of 11. A great sportswoman and scholar, Peg won enough prizes at school that each of her great-great nieces and nephews have a memory of her to keep.

She will be remembered as a generous and independent woman of indomitable spirit.

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Black Watch Ties Ex-Students’ News

Ex-Students’ News

Edwina Beveridge (Walker, 1993) former chartered accountant turned pig farmer, Edwina Beveridge is making her mark as a pioneer in the industry, turning methane into money as Australia’s first ‘carbon farm’. With its 22,000 pigs, Blantyre Farm was one of the first farms to tap into the former Government’s Carbon Farming Initiative program, spending almost $1,000,000 on a biogas generator that captures methane from the manure, turns it into electricity and exports it to the national grid. The windfall for Edwina was turning a monthly gas and electricity bill of $15,000 into a $5,000 credit. Edwina holds the title of Deputy Chairwoman of the NSW Farmers’ Pork committee. She was also runner-up in the 2014 NSW Rural Women of the Year award and is a newly appointed member of the NSW Primary Industries Ministerial Advisory Council.

Gillian Elizabeth Bird (1975) was appointed Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations in January 2015. Since joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in 1980, Gillian has held many leading positions in Australia including Deputy Secretary as well as overseas postings in the UN New York, Harare and OECD in Paris. She was Australia’s first Ambassador to ASEAN, and held the position of First Assistant Secretary, International Division, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Gillian was awarded the Public Service Medal in 2012 for outstanding public service in the field of International Relations.

Caroline Miller (2015) attended Pymble until Year 9, before moving to Chicago to finish her last years of high school and to continue her passion for hockey that began at the College.

In 2013 and 2014, her Chicago High School team placed third in a State level and since then Caroline participated in a variety of tournaments throughout the USA and travelled twice to Europe to train and watch the American Women’s National team. Caroline set her sights high and has committed to play Division One hockey at American University in Washington DC commencing in August 2016. Caroline gives credit to the dedicated coaches she had during her training sessions on Mollie Dive Field, especially Ivan for the early morning goalie training and for her hard work ethic and advantage over her competition in the USA. Marlene Moses (1979) was appointed Ambassador of Nauru to the United Nations on 10 February 2006. Prior to her current appointment, Marlene was Nauru’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, as well as Acting Chief Secretary, and Public Service Commissioner and Secretary to the Cabinet. From 2000 to 2003, she was Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services. She also served as Permanent Secretary for Internal Affairs (1999-2000). Marlene joined the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1983 and has held consular positions in Japan and New Zealand.

Tiffany Sirisisavath (O’Hara, 1995) was awarded an Australian Scholarships Group (ASG) National Excellence in Teaching Award (NEiTA) from a pool of 1,000 nominees. She was nominated by school parents for innovation in teaching technology at Zig Zag Public School, Lithgow, where she currently teaches. Tiffany

has a Bachelor of Education from University of New England, Armidale and now lives in the Blue Mountains with her husband and two children.

Dr Lucy Stackpool-Moore (1997) founded Watipa Community Interest Company in 2016 in an attempt to create an organisation that models the kind of change she wants to see in the world. Building on 15 years of working in community development internationally as well as in Australia, she has started the social enterprise that dares to be different in its approach. Her professional background includes strategic technical and leadership roles within the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and the Panos Global AIDS Program. She was the local communications co-ordinator for the 20th International AIDS Conference in Melbourne Australia (AIDS 2014). Her technical consultancy experience centres around human rights, gender, health systems, education, advocacy and social mobilisation in multiple contexts in Africa, Arab States, Australia and the Pacific for diverse clients, including: Girl Effect, FHI 360, Intrahealth, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, UNFPA, UNDP, the Pastoralist Communication Initiative (PCI), the DfID Education Group, the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), the University of Sussex, and UNESCO. Her professional experience is multi-sectoral, covering HIV and public health, “rights from below” approaches to human rights and participatory approaches to community development around the world. She has a PhD in law and development studies from the University of London (that focused on HIV, stigma and human rights), a Masters Degree in Law from the University of London, a Masters degree in International Education from the University of Sussex, and a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University.

ESU Artist in Residence Grant The 2016 Artist in Residence Grant was awarded to Head of Preparatory School, Mrs Karen Ahearn, to engage two artists to work with Year 2 students. One was an author and the second was an illustrator to work with students to create class books.

The books are to be fictional, but based on life at Pymble for current students and for students in days gone by.

Mrs Ahearn engaged the services of Jacqueline Harvey, author of the Alice Miranda and Clementine Rose series, who worked with each Year 2 class in workshop sessions over multiple weeks during Term 2. The class books are now in their final drafts.

In Term 3, Year 2 students began working with an illustrator to create the images for these books. The Preparatory School is very grateful to the Ex-Students’ Union for providing this opportunity to the Year 2 students. Copies of the books will be available for reading in the Preparatory School library once completed.

Update your contact details by completing the form in the ESU section of the College website at 74 | THE CENTENARY ISSUE

Order of Australia Recipients Susan Bartlett Alexander OAM (Fraser, 1955) for service to primary education in Queensland.

Melissa Jane Doyle AM (1987) for significant service to the community through representational roles with a range of charitable groups, and to the broadcast media.

Robin Dorothy Thompson OAM (Mulholland, 1965) for service to music and to the community of Orange.

Pymble Olympians through the ages Pymble Ladies’ College has a long tradition of students and former students performing on the world stage in various endeavours. In the wake of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, we reflect on some of our former and current Olympians, including two former members of staff.

Mina Wylie, swimming teacher at Pymble from 1928, represented Australia at the Stockholm Olympic Games in 1912, winning silver in the 100 yards freestyle, second to Australian, Fanny Durack.

Brittany was in the reserve squad and due to sit her HSC Trial examinations when she received a call from the head of Diving Australia telling her she had achieved her lifelong goal of securing a place in the team. We congratulate all our Olympic athletes for their outstanding courage, skill and commitment to their sport and for embodying the College motto ‘All’ Ultimo Lavoro’ – Strive for the Highest.

Speech and Drama Awards At the recent Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) Presentation of Diplomas Ceremony held at the University of New South Wales, ten Pymble girls, who studied co-curricular Speech and Drama, were presented with their Associate in Professional Communication, Australia (APCA) which they completed in 2015.

Congratulations to Seetha Tan (Distinction), Angela Xia (Distinction), Tracey Chow, Shehani Gunasekera and Caprice Silk.

Susan Cope (Knight, 1959), former student represented Australia in springboard and platform diving at the Rome 1960 and Tokyo 1964 Olympics.

Elizabeth Carlow (Cain, 1980), represented Australia in Mixed pairs figure skating with her brother, Peter Cain. Elizabeth was 17 at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid 1980.

Former teacher, Graeme Brewer won bronze in the men’s 200m freestyle at Moscow in 1980 and also competed in the Los Angeles games in 1984.

Liane Tooth OAM (1979), represented Australia in Hockey at four Olympic Games: Los Angeles 1984 aged 22, Seoul 1988, Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta. She won gold at both Seoul and Atlanta.

L-R: Angela Xia, Tracey Chow, Shehani Gunasekera, Mrs Victoria Clancy and Seetha Tan

Melissa Medlicott (Moore, 1987), represented Australia in athletics at Barcelona, 1992. Aged 24, Melissa ran in the women’s 200m and 4 x 100m relay.

Danielle Scott (2007), Freestyle Aerial Skier represented Australia at the Sochi Games in 2014. She is currently ranked second in the world and is working towards the 2018 Winter Games in South Korea.

Chloe Dalton (2011) made history in 2016 when she and her teammates won Gold for Australia in the Olympic final of the Women’s Sevens Rugby. The Pearls beat New Zealand 24-17 to take out first place and to secure the first Olympic Gold medal for an Australian women’s team sport in 16 years. Chloe was one of four ex- or current Pymble students competing in the Rio 2016 Games.

They include rower Genevieve Horton (2012) who represented Australia in the women’s double scull, equestrian rider, Edwina Tops Alexander (1991) who captained the show jumping team in her third consecutive Olympic Games and Brittany O’Brien (Year 12) who competed in the 10 metres platform diving event. www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au/community/ex-students-union THE CENTENARY ISSUE | 75

Avon Road, Pymble NSW 2073 PO Box 136, North Ryde BC NSW 1670 Australia Tel: +61 2 9855 7799 Fax: +61 2 9855 7766 Email: communityengagement@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au

www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au A school of the Uniting Church in Australia for girls from Kindergarten to Year 12, with boarding available from Year 7

‘All’ Ultimo Lavoro’ – Strive for the highest

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