Fintona Yearbook 2025

The Fintonian 2025

Acknowledgement of Country

Fintona Girls’ School recognises the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have educated children throughout Australia for thousands of years and continue to have a connection to land, waters and culture. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people, traditional custodians of the land on which we learn and work and pay our respects to the Elders and educators past and present.

The future’s ours to write The songs, the scars, the life I’ll catch up with you some other time When our paths cross again

NIKI (verse from Paths)

PRINCIPAL

Rachael Falloon

The legacy you leave, is the life you lead

- Unknown

As we reflect on the end of another rich and remarkable year at Fintona, I want to acknowledge what a gift it is to be a part of this community; one built on purpose, passion, and deep belief in the potential of every young person who walks through our gates. There is something unique and extraordinary about each and everyone of our students.

2025 was filled with learning, growth and discovery, celebrating student achievement on the stage and in the classroom, across the sporting fields, and within our vibrant cocurricular programs. At the heart of it all, we see a shared truth: that real education is about far more than results. It is about relationships, experiences, and the environments that help young people thrive, and none of this happens by accident.

I thank my colleagues, the teachers and staff, who give so much of themselves to make every opportunity, every success, and every moment possible. These are the people who not only teach with expertise and passion, but who walk with students through triumphs and setbacks alike. Who cheer from the sidelines, who attend rehearsals and performances, who lend their time, their talents, and their care, often quietly; but always generously. They champion possibilities when students do not yet see it in themselves.

During 2025 I had the honour of delivering the graduation address at Monash University for the Faculty of Education. It gave me a moment to reflect, not just on the joys and challenges of the teaching profession, but on the concept of legacy. Legacy is not about grand gestures. It

is often found in small, consistent acts, words of encouragement, moments of patience, feedback given with care. It lives in classrooms where young people feel safe to speak, to question, to fail forward, and to try again.

In giving the address, I wanted the graduates who were stepping into the teaching profession, to understand that their impact would not be measured in weeks or even years, but in the lives they would shape over a lifetime, and the connections and interactions they had every day. I wanted them to know that the power of education is not in delivering perfect lessons, but in making learning real. That is, connecting the abstract to the tangible, the intellectual to the emotional, and the theory to the lived world of our students, guiding both the head and the heart.

Great teachers do not just cover content, they connect and uncover potential.

Every day at Fintona, I see teachers who stay curious, who evolve their craft, and who lean into change with integrity and courage. In a world that is changing faster than ever; where attention is fractured, where information is endless and wisdom seems rare, we need educators who can cut through the noise. We need educators who model clarity, resilience, and meaning and we are fortunate that here at Fintona, we have just that.

We have teachers who challenge their students to stretch beyond what they think is possible. Who build classrooms where complexity

is welcome, and where feedback is not just about performance but about belief. Feedback that says: You matter. I see you. And I believe you can grow. Our teachers are architects of futures, protectors of dreams and unseen champions of possibility. They make interactions count. And for that, I thank them with all the depth of gratitude this profession deserves.

Legacy is not only something teachers leave behind. It is something students build, moment by moment, every day of their schooling life.

At Fintona, we aim to nurture intelligent, curious, fearless, and dynamic young women. Learners who lead, individuals who care, and citizens who will continue to grow and inspire long after they leave school. This can only happen in a culture where values are lived, and relationships are built and nurtured. This is the kind of legacy of which we are proud.

I thank our students for their energy, joy, boldness, and their belief in one another. For showing up, for getting involved, for lifting each other, and for the spirit they bring to every facet of school life, and for making this community what it is.

There is a world that is rich with challenge, full of wonder and brimming with opportunity waiting for every graduating class, and every one of our students. I encourage them to step into it with open hearts, sharp minds, and strong voices and to never forget that the most powerful legacy you can leave is the impact you have on others.

Age Quod Agis

SCHOOL CONSULS

Priyanka De Silva & Stephanie Jenkins

When stepping into the role of School Consul 2025, we were inspired by a clear vision, to make a meaningful contribution to our community and amplify the opportunities Fintona already provides. We wanted to continue the strong legacy of leadership that came before us while carving our own path.

Our biggest focus was expanding the reach and awareness of Fintona’s vibrant co-curricular life. We introduced a new section in the News Bulletin where every fortnight two different activity Captains shared their experiences and achievements, accompanied by photos capturing the spirit of their teams and clubs. This initiative was to help shine a spotlight on the diverse passions within our school – from debating and sport to physics and drama – and encouraged students to explore new interests or take pride in the ones they already loved.

We also worked to create opportunities for deeper connection between year levels by organising small events for our Year 5 to Year 12 students. These included a Year 9 and Year 12 pancake breakfast, before the Year 9 students first exams. Pancakes, words of wisdom, and gifts were exchanged to show our support for the younger girls.

Fintona’s strength lies in its size, not because it is small, but because it is close-knit. There is a sense of unity here that you do not always find elsewhere, and as Consuls, we have felt incredibly lucky to help foster that. Whether it is supporting a student on stage, cheering from the sidelines, or just checking in on each other in the hallway, the spirit of this school shines brightest when we lift each other up.

To us, leadership has never been about a badge or a title, it is about showing up. It is about participating, listening, and standing beside your peers with care and conviction. We hope throughout 2025, we have done just that.

Of course, none of our goals would have been possible without the unwavering support of the staff and students at Fintona. We are especially grateful to Ms Falloon and Ms Allen, for their guidance throughout the year, and to the broader leadership team for continuously championing student voices.

We approached the end of our secondary schooling and our time as Consuls, with full hearts. Fintona has shaped who we are and we are honoured to have played a part in shaping its story for 2025. Thank you for trusting us, supporting us, and growing with us.

DEPUTY CONSULS

Tori Gonsalves & Jessica Leung

If we were to sum up 2025 with one word, it would be community. From developing connections across year levels, to fostering our final memories with the Year 12 cohort, this year was characterised by an incredible sense of unity across the school.

We are truly grateful for the vibrant, collaborative environment that Fintona offers, and to have contributed to it through our experience as Deputy Consuls.

The role primarily entailed supporting the School Consuls behind the scenes, ensuring that school events ran smoothly.

A much anticipated event was the Formal, where we eagerly decided on the location, themes and seating of the night. We were excited to see how the smooth running of the night facilitated a great evening of socialising and making unforgettable memories.

Similarly, the 100 days of Year 12 lunch created a memory filled with nostalgia, reminiscent of the celebration we experienced in Prep, 12 years ago. The Year 12 students gathered on the AHC lawn to treasure memories made as a cohort while reflecting on the milestones reached throughout the first half of the year.

A key highlight was the inaugural Year 9 and Year 12 breakfast in Term 2, a morning where the Year 12 students networked with a Year 9 buddy, providing advice and reassurance for their first exams with a personalised gift and card. It was exciting to see our vision come to fruition after weeks of planning and particularly rewarding to witness the development of connections across the two year levels.

Additionally, we continued the tradition of holding a picnic for the whole Senior Campus with our Fostering Friendships event in Term 3. This involved light-hearted games with students from all year levels participating, with the friendly competition further cementing the development of connections across year levels.

Our achievements would not have been possible without collaboration with the School Consuls, Stephanie and Priyanka, the Head of Senior School, Ms Allen, and the Class of 2025 cohort. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their dedication and teamwork throughout the year.

While we were saddened to finally conclude our role of Deputy Consul, we are certain that the 2026 Deputy Consuls, Vicky and Barbara, will continue to lead with passion and enthusiasm and we are excited to see what they achieve next year. We will wholeheartedly miss the Fintona community we have grown to cherish and wish you all the best of luck for the years to come.

HEAD OF JUNIOR CAMPUS

Jackie Dimattina

The Power of Play: Connecting Our Youngest and Oldest Learners

On the Junior Campus, play is more than a pastime, it is a powerful driver of learning, creativity, and wellbeing. Across all ages, play fosters curiosity, problem-solving, and social connection. It allows students to explore ideas, experiment with possibilities, and develop skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. As Frederich Frobel observed - Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul..

During 2025 our Junior Campus embraced a special initiative, The Play Project, which brought together students from our Early Learning Centre and Year 12. While these two age groups may seem worlds apart, the magic of play proved to be a universal language. Year 12 students joined our ELC classes to co-create playful experiences, from imaginative roleplay and outdoor construction challenges to creative arts, storytelling, and problem-solving games. These sessions were not just about fun (though there was plenty of that), they were about connection, empathy, and understanding.

We also saw the continued success of the Grow Your Mind program across the Junior Campus. This evidence-based wellbeing initiative teaches emotional intelligence, resilience, and mindfulness through engaging activities and

storytelling. Its focus on understanding the brain, naming feelings, and building empathy complemented the Play Project. In both programs, students practised essential life skills, kindness, perspective-taking, and selfregulation in ways that felt natural and joyful.

For our youngest learners, having ‘big sisters’ as play partners offered a sense of belonging and admiration. They witnessed leadership, care, and collaboration in action. For our Year 12 students, stepping back into the world of early childhood learning was a joyful reminder of curiosity unfiltered by self-consciousness. Many spoke about how the project gave them a renewed sense of joy and even stress relief during their final year. Some of these students had attended the ELC and delighted in returning to this familiar space.

The Play Project also highlighted the importance of intentional, high-quality play in education. As researcher Stuart Brown reminds us, ‘Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.’ It is through play that we practice language, develop resilience, negotiate rules, and learn to take turns. In a world where schedules are increasingly full, protecting time for play is an investment in balanced, healthy development.

Perhaps the most heartening outcome of the project was the sense of community it fostered. From the sandpit to the art easel, from the block corner to the playground, laughter and learning flowed freely. Play reminded us that while the years between ELC and Year 12 may be many, the joy of shared discovery is ageless.

As we reflect on the year, we celebrate this simple truth: when we make space for play, we make space for deeper learning and for each other.

EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

LEARNING & OPERATIONS LEADER: Terese

Francis

More than a school, a place of belonging and connection

One of my favourite parts of the day is standing in the piazza each morning, watching children and families enter the ELC. Children skip and run in with joy and confidence, while parents and grandparents exchange warm greetings with each other and with educators. What is especially beautiful is the way families interact with one another’s children, sharing smiles and speaking with care, as if part of one big extended family. These moments may seem small, but they speak volumes. They reflect a genuine sense of belonging and connection that radiates through our ELC.

As someone new to the Fintona community, I have felt supported and welcomed, not only by staff, but by children and families

who instantly made me feel a part of something meaningful. That sense of connection, of being a member of a wider family, is what makes our ELC so special.

Throughout the year, this community spirit has been reflected in programs like the Buddy Program with the Junior School, the Play Project with Year 12 students, nature play and learning experiences across the school grounds. Events beginning with the ELC Picnic through to the end of year concert offer further opportunities to come together in a joyful celebration.

My reflections from the Reggio Emilia conference earlier this year reinforced just how meaningful these shared experiences are. Early childhood education is about much more than preparing children for school, it is about shaping the world we share. In this approach, children are seen as capable, competent, and active citizens of today, with rights and perspectives that deserve to be acknowledged and respected.

This idea, that children are the heart of our community, resonates deeply with what I see each day at Fintona. I am proud to be part of a learning environment where genuine moments of connection are part of everyday life.

If our children are the future, then I am hopeful. Because here at Fintona, we are creating an inclusive and empathetic culture, one where all voices are heard, every individual is valued, and we are not just raising learners, but nurturing the citizens of a more compassionate world.

GINKGO K3

TEACHER: Anna Crozier

CO-EDUCATOR: Isabella Song

The Hundred Languages of Children: A Journey of Discovery

Within the Ginkgo Room, we witness daily the incredible ways children communicate, explore, and express themselves. Their learning is not confined to words alone—it is felt through touch, seen in movement, heard in laughter, and expressed through art, play, and curiosity. These are the ‘hundred languages’ of children, a concept beautifully articulated by Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia approach: The child has a hundred languages, a hundred hands, a hundred thoughts, a hundred ways of thinking, of playing, of speaking.

Children learn through feeling, touching, smelling, listening, and seeing. They investigate, imitate, verbalise, and innovate.

Each moment is an invitation to explore—a spark of initiative that ignites a lifelong love of learning. Whether they are building with blocks, mixing colours, or asking ‘why?’, they are engaging in the art of investigation.

This process is constant and joyful. It is not just about finding answers—it is about nurturing wonder. The early years are a time when the surface of learning is gently scratched, revealing layers of possibility. With each experience, children are invited to go deeper, to experiment further, and to continue their journey of discovery.

And with that, the languages come into play. These languages are not just tools— they are expressions of identity, creativity, and connection. They allow children to make sense of their world and share it with others. As educators, we honour these languages by creating environments that invite exploration, celebrate individuality, and foster meaningful relationships.

During 2025, the children’s learning was rich and full. We have immersed ourselves in the natural world, selecting spaces that invited us to observe, wonder, and learn about birds — their movements, their habitats, and the Dreamtime stories that give voice to their presence in Country. These stories became a powerful provocation, connecting us to culture, land, and each other.

From this shared curiosity, a new idea emerged: to build an aeroplane. What began as a spark of imagination quickly grew into a collaborative project, rich with planning, negotiation, and problem-solving. Each child brought their own ideas, skills, and perspectives, and together we constructed something far greater than the sum of its parts — a vessel for our dreams, built with care and creativity.

In every corner of our room, the hundred languages are alive—in the sandpit, the art studio, the garden, and the classroom. They remind us that learning is not linear, but rich, layered, and deeply human.

JACARANDA K3

TEACHER: Charmian Harris

CO-EDUCATOR: Sue Donaghey

Explorations of the Story of Tiddalick the Frog

The Dreamtime story of Tiddalick the Frog offered the Jacaranda children many opportunities for exploration and learning. Through storytelling, art, and play, they engaged with its central ideas while expressing their own interpretations in creative and meaningful ways. The story carried significant messages, reminding us of the value of water and the natural environment, the wisdom of listening to Elders, and the importance of sharing rather than acting with greed.

In the narrative, Tiddalick wanted to be the biggest frog in the land. One hot day, he became very thirsty and drank until all the water in the creeks, rivers, and billabongs had disappeared. When the other animals came searching for water, they found none. As the land dried, so too did the plants and trees. The animals soon realised they would need to work together to bring water back to their world.

Our inquiry into Tiddalick began with an educational experience that introduced the children to the characters, cultural context, and themes of the story. This provocation sparked curiosity, encouraged questioning, and inspired the children to revisit the narrative through play and artistic expression.

The Jacaranda children explored the story further through drama and role-play. They dressed as kookaburra, possum, dingo, koala, emu, wombat, frill-neck lizard, cockatoo, echidna, kangaroo, snake, and Noyang the eel. Costumes and props helped them step into character and transform their learning space into Tiddalick’s world.

Through role-play, the children re-enacted Tiddalick’s endless drinking, the animals’ desperate search for water, and the comical scenes where the animals tried to make him laugh so that the water would return. Their retellings demonstrated strong recall, sequencing, and an emerging understanding of the story’s key events.

Beyond drama, the children expressed their ideas through multiple creative mediums. In observational drawing, they studied and represented frogs, birds, and native animals, exploring shape, colour, and texture. In painting, they recreated watery landscapes, billabongs, and animals working together, using colour to convey mood and meaning. With clay, they sculpted Tiddalick and other characters, experimenting with form and structure to bring the story to life in three dimensions.

These varied modes of expression reflected the Reggio Emilia principle of the hundred languages of children. Each medium provided another way to communicate ideas, revisit the narrative, and reinterpret its meaning. Throughout these experiences, children collaborated and negotiated roles, materials, and ideas. They listened to one another, shared resources, and respected different perspectives. In doing so, they strengthened creativity, imagination, problemsolving, and a sense of belonging.

Exploring Tiddalick the Frog was a joyful and meaningful experience. The initial provocation opened a doorway into the story, inspiring the children to respond through drama, art, and sculpture. Through this journey, they deepened their understanding while developing communication, collaboration, and creativity.

The inquiry also connected them with Aboriginal storytelling traditions, reinforcing the importance of listening, caring for the environment, and learning together as a community.

BANKSIA PRE-PREP

TEACHER:

Karen Winderlich

CO-EDUCATOR:

Helen Darrer

When you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it’s your world for the moment....

-

Georgia O’Keeffe

Children and the natural world are connected with enduring threads of wonder, curiosity and the desire for active engagement in ways that encompass all their senses. An inbuilt intuition and affinity for the world around them draws children in, to notice, to imagine and to create.

From the very beginning of the year when we first invited the children to look closely at the banksia flower, to see and touch the spikey leaves and the soft petals within, and to use markers to draw them, the children made visible a particular fascination for flowers.

Drawing is always our first proposal when introducing or exploring ideas with children. As they draw, they are also thinking. In fact, it is impossible to draw without also engaging with the subject in a cognitive sense. As they use art as a tool for thinking children can make their ideas visible, to consider details and clarify inconsistencies or puzzlements. Drawing is a powerful act of inquiry, a language of thought.

We could see how challenging it was to create a line drawing of the banksia flowers— they are certainly not the easiest flower to draw with complex lines and shapes. But despite this, each of the children accepted the invitation with the courage that we see them use every day, and each one brought unique ideas, skills and powers of observation to create their own interpretation.

As the weeks went by, we challenged the children’s powers of observation, confidence and skills by offering a wide range of flowers to both draw, paint and collage, including a basket of flowers the children gathered on

the Senior School campus. These flowers were examined and photographed by the children using a microscopic attachment to the iPad and this opened a whole new world. Other experiences offered were:

• A visit to the Science Lab to see flowers and their components through the big microscope.

• Using photos of flowers taken at home to create prints.

• Drawing on the inspiration of illustrators Lydia Monks and Eric Carle to create collage pictures of flowers in vases designed by the children.Sculpting vases using clay.

• Planning our garden bed and nurturing flower seedlings in the garden.

• Playing with opposites in pictures; black on white, white on black, as well as gigantic proportions juxtaposed with miniature.

All year we have been committed to providing an environment that introduces children to a wide range of quality art materials and processes to explore their world and express their ideas in satisfying and deeply enriching ways. Their efforts and achievements have been both beautiful and inspirational.

WATTLE PRE-PREP

TEACHER: Sharne Rees

CO-EDUCATORS: Catherine Farrar & Dimple Gulati

Ferns - A Journey of Discovery

During our year together, we have spent long periods of time dedicated to observing, pondering and exploring the world around us. A moment of wonder grew into a multidimensional investigation into the life, structure and seasonal role of ferns.

The inquiry began through our invested desire to understand more about Wurundjeri seasonal knowledge. Waring (Wombat) Season is filled with misty mornings, and cold, rainy days. Soft tree ferns flourish in these conditions and become an important food source for many animals during this time. The gardens within our school allowed us the opportunity to investigate these and other ferns. As time moved by, we noticed the changes in ferns within our environment. The fern fronds began to unfurl, colours brightened and the climate warmed. Thus, we began to see the fern not just as a simple plant in isolation but a part of a much larger, interconnected system.

Our project work was driven by the children’s desire to discover, to create working theories about the natural world and understand their own place within the ecological context.

Through close observation, hands-on exploration, conversation and collaborative experiences, children documented their ideas and learning through drawings, collage, printing, clay and photography.

Ferns were studied microscopically, allowing the previously unseen to become visible. Spores, frond patterns and textures were closely examined, with children making detailed observations that inspired rich language use and supported their ability to ask and respond to complex questions.

To offer alternative points for understanding, large-scale explorations were also abundant. Immersive time spent in the Fintona gardens

helped us to begin to comprehend the scale of different ferns and the desire to recreate this artistically saw the children using a mix of free form drawing and printing as well as using overhead projectors to recreate our own large fern garden.

Throughout the project, our children demonstrated creativity, compassion, resilience and openness. The documentation of their learning celebrates their discoveries, their immense capabilities and the joy that comes through collaboration with friends and nature.

TEACHER: Amy Miers

The school’s two Prep classes have had a wonderful year of learning, and the year was a special one for our students. Here they reflect on what they enjoyed most:

Nagomi Ando: I loved making the water drops because we got to cut and use beautiful blue colours.

Adya Bist: I love doing PE at Fintona because I can learn new skills and play games.

Maria Chen: I loved the 100 Days of Prep party because it was really fun.

Josie D’Amico: I loved the 100 Days of Prep party because we had lots of fun together.

Ziyana Eda: I love having Developmental Play because we get to choose what we would like to do.

Sylvie Gan: I loved the 100 Days of School party.

Stella Gao: I loved making the rain drops because I got to use blue colours and scissors to make something beautiful.

Amber Jiang: I love Maths because I enjoy all the games that we play.

Olivia Jiang: I loved House Athletics and Cross Country because I got a ribbon for coming in second place.

Milli Karki: I love Maths because I liked it when we used the clocks to tell the time.

Nova Lew: I loved Mother’s Day because I got to eat with my mum, and it was fun.

Melody Liu: I love when we have Maths because it is fun.

Sienna Luo: I loved the 100 Days of School party and every time we have Maths.

Emily Ma: I loved the 100 Days of School party because I liked the food.

Arielle Qin: I love lunchtime because we get to eat and play.

Nastaran Shirazi: I love House Athletics and Cross Country because we get to run, and I love running.

Norah Wang: I loved it when the zoo came because I could see lots of cute animals.

Lillian Wu: I love lunchtime because I like to eat and play with my friends.

Yana Zhang: I loved the Potato Olympics because we could make a car for our potatoes.

Clarity Zhou: I love Maths because we get to do lots of different things and have fun.

TEACHER: Meaghan Walker

Prep was filled with so many highlights. Here the Prep W children reflect on some of them:

Jasmine Budhiraja: My highlight is the 100 days of school because we played games.

Nora Hue Chau: I like playing in the playground and finding new friends to play with.

Katharine Chau: I like doing maths and writing.

Stephanie Chen: I like playing with my buddy because she is kind.

Maya Garzan: I like buddies and writing. My buddy is kind.

Kai-Lyn Valerie Leong: I like doing writing because it is fun and if you don’t know how to write then you won’t know how to write when you are older.

Charlene Li: I love to do literacy and writing because it is important for me because I want to be good at writing and we get to write new things.

Yuvia Li: I like the learning.

Sophia Li: My highlight of school is the 100 days of school because I love the cupcakes.

Hannah Li: My highlight has been drawing in my drawing book because it is so fun.

Hera Liu: My favourite bit is going to the library at lunchtime because we get to make a house.

Olivia Mallaby: It was fun because I got to play skip rope and throwing hoops with my big friend.

Lydia Shen: I like literacy and maths and I like buddy time.

Ella Wang: I have enjoyed playing and drawing in art.

Lilian Wang: In the playground we smashed rocks to make powder for makeup. We used this powder for drawing.

Isabelle Xie: I like literacy because it is fun when we do lots of things.

Amber Zhang: I’ve made so many new friends. I like writing, especially when we write letters for the Year 1 post box.

Ava Zhu: My best bit was the 100 days of school because we got to have popcorn.

Top Row: Amy Miers, Nagomi Ando, Qinyi Jiang, Nova Lew, Josie D'Amico, Maria Chen, Milli Karki, Stella Gao, Jackie Dimattina

2nd Row: Arielle Jingmo Qin, Sylvie Gan, Nastaran Ramezan Shirazi, Amber Jiang, Melody Liu, Emily Ma 1st Row: Clarity Zhou, Yujie Wu, Adya Bist, Ruixin Luo, Norah Wang, Yana Zhang, Ziyana Jasmine Eda

PREP W

Top Row: Meaghan Walker, Sophia Li, Carolyn Zhu, Ava Zhu, Nora Chau, Jasmine Budhiraja, Hannah Li, Qianyu Li, Jackie Dimattina 2nd Row: Amber Zhang, Lilian Wang, Charlene Li, Maya Garzan, Ruo Fan Wang, Qianyi (Stephanie) Chen 1st Row: Olivia Mallaby, Qianyi Chen, Katharine Chau, Charlize Chung, Lydia Shen, Valerie Kai-Lyn Leong, Zen-Yuu Hera Liu

YEAR 1

YEAR 2

Top Row: Brittany Creek, Vania Jamali, Kailyn Xu, Bianca Zarif, Chloe Fu, Ruixi Liu, Jackie Dimattina 2nd Row: Cindy Chen, Termeh Derakhshani, Mia Ryan, Arya Calic, Amelia Chen, Cara Gu 1st Row: Mia Liang, Charlotte Xu, Allison Gray, Sze Ue He, Lexie Xu Not Featured: Miao Miao Zhang

Top Row: Wishodha Kuruppuachchi, Mingyu Lin, Naomi Sun, Alissa Joshi, Kaitlin Wong, Alycia Zhu, Zhixia Wei, Audrey Enverga, Jackie Dimattina 2nd Row: Yinuo Dang, Catherine Tsui, Nova Yang, Katherine Zhong, Annabelle Menzies, Madelyn Muxin Liu 1st Row: Janice Li, Elsa Yu, Amber Xu, Emma Wilsmore, Genevieve Kai-En Leong, Hannah Sabzvari, Evelyn Li

YEAR 3

Row: David Joyce, Eleanor Kandare, Sophia Cai, Sophie Azad, Chelsea Chiu, Alice Ni, Lydia Geng, Jackie

2nd Row: Hayoon Cho, Ava Garzan, Penelope Zhao, Sophie Downes, Charlotte Zhou, Olivia Lu, Alice Mansour

1st Row: Jacquelyn Shuya Wu, Serena Ma, Isabella Wu, Yanxi Jia, Amy Sun, Xinyao Wang, Candice Xu, Shanaya Budhiraja

Not Featured: Kexin Ren

YEAR 4

Top

Dimattina

Top Row: Olivia Chen, Rianna Joshi, Kaitlyn Lu, Meeshaya Tiwari-Lal, Tessie Wei, Zara Masalkovska, Jackie Dimattina

2nd Row: Lara Dresser, Mackenzie Qian, Tara Frost, Esmé Marques, Deeba Mellati, Claudia Liu, Alice Li, Yalin Zhang

1st Row: Claire Dai, Mikayla Wong, Claire Chau, Chloe Wang, Milly Xu, Victoria Wang

Not Featured: Wing Yu Chan

YEAR 1

TEACHER: Brittany Creek

Growing, Learning and Laughing

What a wonderful year it was in Year 1. Our students have grown in confidence, curiosity, and independence, taking on new challenges with enthusiasm. Most importantly, Year 1 was about making new friends, supporting each other, and celebrating our achievements—big and small. It was a year to remember!

The girls used the sentence starter ‘An event that has been special to me in Year 1 is’ to reflect on our year together.

Arya Calic: House Cross Country was special because I came second and I was so close to winning.

Amelia Chen: Buddies was special because I was lucky to have two buddies, Sylvia and Alina.

Cindy Chen: Making Anzac biscuits was special because we got to bake them in the staffroom and eat them!

Termeh Derakhshani: Cultural Day was special because I presented in Assembly about my culture. I loved wearing my Persian clothes.

Chloe Fu: Snow Sports was special because I got a silver medal with Amelia and Cara.

Allison Gray: Mother’s Day was special because we did a special performance for our mothers. We got to eat lots of food too!

Cara Gu: P.E was special because we got to do gymnastics. My favourite ones were vault, beam and trampoline.

Olivia He: Melbourne Zoo was special because Andrew the zookeeper told me lizards and tortoises can live together.

Vania Jamali: Pancake Day was special because we got to eat pancakes with different toppings.

Mia Liang: The stretching gummy snakes’ experiment for science was special because we got to eat the snake at the end.

Iris Liu: Making our habitats was special because Arya and I made something that was very awesome.

Mia Ryan: Being Posties was special because we delivered mail to classrooms and posted our own letters too.

Charlotte Xu: House Athletics was special because I came first in the mini hurdles and REID WON!

Kailyn Xu: Reading our class novels was special because I love Roald Dahl books. I like the way Mrs Creek reads using different voices.

Lexie Xu: Pyjama Day was special because I loved being in my pyjamas at school.

Bianca Zarif: Grandparents Day was special because I got to see my grandparents and spend time with them.

Miu Miu Zhang: Potato Olympics was special because potatoes are yummy.

YEAR 2

TEACHER:

Wishodha Kuruppuachchi

A Year of Heartfelt Memories

2025 was a truly special one for me as a class teacher. From the very first day, I set out to not just teach, but to understand and connect with each of my students. What a journey it has been!

Throughout the year, we did more than just learn new things. We asked questions, made a few mistakes, and cheered each other on when we got things right. But the best part was what we built together; trust, friendship, and lots of happy memories.

To my students - Thank you for your energy, honesty, and warmth. I have learned so much from you. I will always cherish the time we have spent together, and I hope you carry forward all the lessons and love we shared. Here, Year 2 students share some memories:

Janice, Amber: In Drama, we loved playing with the puppets and acting in plays. We also liked playing games such as detectives.

Elsa, Kaitlin, Emma, Genevieve, Kai-En: We liked Potato Olympics because we worked with our buddies, and we decorated our potatoes and gave them a name too. Colouring the potato was fun! We weighed the potatoes and measured the potatoes.

Audrey, Mingyu (Yiyi): Camp was amazing! We did lots of teamwork activities like initiatives and scavenger hunt. We had delicious food and desserts. We also did tree rolling and tree climbing. We went on a night walk and we were lucky enough to see some animals and even a shooting star! Camp was fantastic and we can’t wait for next year!

Nova, Alissa, Naomi: We loved Athletics Day! It was lots of fun and there was a lot of laughter. It didn’t matter what place our House got, it was about us having the best time with our friends. Sack race and relays were our favourite activities.

Alycia, Madelyn, Muxin, Katherine: We enjoy learning science. We enjoyed the ‘Kitchen Chemistry’ incursion a lot. We loved the experiment with tea bags and using fire to make them fly. We learnt about kitchen chemicals. Our favourite part was making our own sherbet.

Charlotte (Yinuo), Evelyn, Olivia (Zhixia): We loved Mother’s Day celebrations. We got to spend time with our mothers at school. We read our beautiful little notes about our mums at the assembly. We really enjoyed taking photos with them. We also gave our mums a beautiful flower.

Catherine, Hannah: Pyjama Day was fun. We all dressed up in our favourite winter pyjamas. We danced with our pyjamas on at the assembly. The best part was, we could be in pyjamas for the whole day!

YEAR 3

TEACHER: David Joyce

Year 3 students reflected on their favourite memories, experiences and learning from an action packed 2025

Sophie Azad, Isabella Wu, Aurora Jia CAMP: We did all sorts of fun activities such as hut building, geocaching, low ropes course, bush cooking, rock climbing and survival games. We ate delicious food and had some sleep. We loved everything about camp.

Lydia Geng, Alice Ni MUSIC: We love music and playing fun games like blacksnake and learning the scales. We learnt how to play the recorder and sang lots of different songs

Candice Xu, Chelsea Chiu ART: We created clay creatures, shaped pinch pot animals with terracotta clay. We made pinch pots with flowers and leaves using white clay.

Jacquelyn Wu, Serena Ma HUMANITIES: We learnt about celebrations and commemorations in Australia and around the world. These included ANZAC Day, Chinese New Year, Sorry Day, Australia Day, St Patricks Day and many more.

Sophie Downes, Hayoon Cho, Alice Mansour ENGLISH: We wrote recounts, poems and procedures in English including adverb, noun and adjective poems. We published our five senses poem on our computers and printed them to display. We wrote procedures on how to make Wombat Stew and wash different animals.

Ava Garzan, Amy Sun FRENCH: Bonjour! This year in French we learnt the names of fruits and vegetables and created role plays. Then, we learnt about The Three Little Pigs and created memory games.

Cathy Ren, Charlotte Zhou

SCIENCE: Mad About Science was amazing! We used batteries and wires to create light. We also went to Healesville and saw Australia’s native animals and plants.

Olivia Lu, Shanaya Budhiraja

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: This year we did swimming with the Year 2 students and Netball in PE. During Netball, we were encouraged to run from side to side to confuse our defender.

Cynthia Wang, Sophia Cai

MATHEMATICS: We developed new and helpful skills in maths. We learnt about number line fractions and took surveys of the class. We have learnt how to solve tricky questions in Maths Problem Solving.

Penny Zhao

DRAMA: We learnt how to mime. We had an incursion to help with our understanding and had lots of fun miming. We love drama.

Eleanor Kandare

LIBRARY: We did a First Nations reading trail where we read Indigenous books and collected stamps. We also looked at classical stories such as Heidi

YEAR 4

TEACHER: Lara Dresser

The Year 4 students reflected on their most memorable moments during their time in the Junior School

Sophie Chan: My favourite memory is getting my pen licence, because I got a cute achievement animal and was able to write in beautiful blue and red (erasable) pens!

Claire Chau: Junior School has so many memories. My favourite is my achievements. Achieving my pen licence, being an Aerobics Captain and my first day and whole year.

Olivia Chen: My favourite memory of the Junior School is when I first started touch typing. After some more lessons, it started to get easier to remember where the keys were.

Claire Dai: My most memorable moment was Achievement Animals. Achievement Animals are little plastic figures, and if you achieve or do something amazing, Mrs Dresser will give you an animal.

Tara Frost: My favourite memory of the Junior School is when I go to after school care with Claire C because we do homework and the Three Colour Challenge.

Rianna Joshi: One of my favourite memories was the Peter Pan production because I liked rehearsing with my friends. I had so much fun performing in the play.

Alice Li: One of my favourite memories was when we had our swimming carnival because everyone was cheering for me.

Claudia Liu: My favourite memory of the Junior School is when we did stop motion. I loved planning and filming with Kaitlyn.

Kaitlyn Lu: My favourite moment in the Junior School was Pyjama Day. It was so fun to spend the day in PJs!

Esmé Marques: My most memorable moment in Year 4 was making new friendships with people in my class and learning new things about them every day.

Zara Masalkovska: One of my favourite memories was the Mother’s Day Breakfast. I loved making the Mother’s Day card and I loved how I could spend time with my mum at school.

Deeba Mellati: One of my favourite memories was being the Performing Arts Captain in the Junior School with Esmé. We introduced Philip and Jaque for the French Play. They performed a scene that was so funny that it made everyone laugh.

Mackenzie Qian: My favourite memory of Junior School is when I went to Regionals in Aerobics because I was very nervous and it was my first Aerobics competition.

Meeshaya Tiwari-Lal: My favourite memory of Junior School is when I came to school for my birthday for the first time. Receiving gifts from my friends and playing with them was so much fun.

Chloe Wang: My favourite memory is when I went to SSV Swimming with Alice, Olivia, Yalin and Claudia. At first, I was scared to compete but after my first race, I realised it was really fun.

Victoria Wang: My most memorable moment was when we went to Aerobics, because I loved the competition and the routine. I loved when we flew all the way to Adelaide for the National Competition.

Tessie Wei: My favourite memory from the Junior School is Book Week. I liked dressing up as characters from books and doing crafts with the authors.

Mikayla Wong: I have so many memories that I love from the Junior School but my most favourite memory is House Athletics. This is because I felt happy and proud when people were cheering me on.

Milly Xu: My favourite memory of the Junior School is when I attended the Interschool Snowsports Competition. I went with my friends and had lots of fun in the snow.

Yalin Zhang: One of my favourite memories was when we went to Year 1 camp. We made pizza and I made it into a love heart shape.

JUNIOR CAMPUS ART

TEACHER: Fran Hyde

The artist is not a special kind of person; rather each person is a special kind of artist

- Ananda Coomaraswamy

Art is a powerful form of expression that enables students from our youngest learners in the ELC to the Year 4 students to communicate their unique perspectives, creativity, and emotions. Whether through painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, or other media, the Junior Campus art program provides diverse opportunities for students to explore their imaginations and develop their artistic skills.

The program fosters a supportive and inclusive environment in which students feel valued and confident in the art-making process. Each learner is encouraged to adopt the perspective of an artist, recognising that artistic expression can take many forms from engaging with a creative process to producing work that is both meaningful and visually compelling.

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Justine Hamilton

Middle School serves as a vital bridge between Junior School and Senior School, supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. It is a time for Middle School students to explore new subjects, discover their talents, and develop independence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Beyond the classroom, it offers opportunities for leadership, creativity, and teamwork.

Students learn to navigate friendships, take on challenges, and contribute to their community, all while building the confidence and skills they need for the years ahead. In 2025, our Middle School has been just that! A vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and connection, giving every student the chance to thrive.

The Middle School Consuls, Emily and Caitlin and Deputy Consuls, Abigail and Katara, had an outstanding year, making a significant and lasting impact. Through organising assemblies and leading student leadership sessions, they ensured student voices were heard and celebrated.

They consistently demonstrated initiative, creativity, and responsibility, fostering a sense of connection and belonging among their peers. Their leadership culminated in coordinating a Senior Campus charity event, demonstrating initiative, collaboration, and the remarkable growth they achieved over the year.

The year began filled with trepidation, excitement and anticipation for the year ahead. Our transition morning helped new students settle in, supported by their peers, reflecting the welcoming spirit of the Middle School community.

Our Year 8 students set a high standard as role models and leaders. Their participation in GSV sports, school productions, and co-curricular activities inspired younger students and strengthened the community.

In our classrooms and beyond, our students were engaged in rich, meaningful, life-worthy learning experiences while maintaining a strong academic focus. Excursions and incursions enhanced their learning, from the Year 5 science experiments on states of matter, the Year 6 supermarket investigations, the Year 7 Melbourne Zoo sleepover, to the Year 8 entrepreneurial sprint challenge with Camberwell Grammar, students discovered new ways to learn and apply knowledge in real-world settings.

But it did not stop there; the Middle School students also excelled in performances, House competitions, and sports, showcasing talent, teamwork, and school spirit. Each student contributed to a lively, supportive, and inspiring community, and there is no doubt that 2025 was a year of growth, connection, and achievement. A year to celebrate.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONSULS

Caitlin Huang & Emily Semczyszyn

Becoming Middle School Consuls was a huge turning point in our leadership journeys as we worked towards making the Middle School a more collaborative environment, uniting all the year levels and celebrating our skills and talents. Throughout the year we worked alongside the Deputy Consuls, Mrs Justine Hamilton, Mr Chris Williams, Tutor Representatives and the Middle School students to work towards the vision we had for 2025.

Middle School Consul was a role we both had to embrace and grow into, developing our leadership qualities and abilities to help provide the Middle School with leaders that work towards goals they truly want to see happen.

During our countless meetings and planning sessions we focused on being able to receive clear feedback from students and use this to help develop the Middle School in a positive direction. One of our main objectives during our time in these positions was to help foster multiyear-level relationships within the community.

MIDDLE SCHOOL DEPUTY CONSULS

Katara Haran & Abigail Leung

Being selected as the Deputy Middle School Consuls for 2025 was both exciting and an incredible honour. We were eager to take on the responsibility of leading the Middle School and making a difference within our portfolios. At first, the role felt like a lot to manage, but over time we found our rhythm, establishing regular meetings with the Middle School Consuls, Mrs Hamilton, and Mr Williams.

With the support of the Middle School community and our fellow Consuls, we

One of the most significant events was the annual Easter Picnic, a recent tradition carried on by Consuls before us that has quickly become a much-anticipated annual event. It was exciting to help organise this event and see how much joy it brought to students in all year levels. Chocolate eggs were spread across the lawn, and Easter-themed games such as Duck Duck Goose and the three-legged race were thoroughly enjoyed by students, and it was such a rewarding experience to lead the occasion.

We were lucky to create special events for our mothers, fathers and grandparents to thank them and celebrate all that they do to support us. Other events included a wider range of activities, such as bingo with prizes, a heartwarming video, and plenty of chances for conversation and involvement with family. These moments made the celebrations both engaging and memorable for both families and students.

During both Semester 1 and Semester 2, we worked with Tutor Representatives, who played an important role in ensuring every Tutor Group

had a voice. Supporting them showed us how valuable collaboration and teamwork are within the school. The Tutor Representatives fostered a welcoming environment in the Middle School and planned enjoyable activities in Tutor time.

Finally, our greatest privilege was leading Friday assemblies each week. Standing before our peers was both challenging and rewarding, and it became one of the most memorable aspects of our role, both improving public speaking skills and connections to our Middle School.

Overall, being Consuls has been a mix of leadership, tradition, and teamwork. We are truly grateful to have had the chance to represent the Middle School in 2025 and to leave our own contribution to its history.

grew into the role and learned to overcome challenges together. Each obstacle became an opportunity to learn and develop as leaders.

In our roles as Co-curricular Consul and Environment Consul, our goals included raising awareness of the many clubs available to students, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities such as afterschool sport and music, and promoting the importance of environmental responsibility. Through assemblies, we hosted spotlight

sessions that showcased student involvement across different activities, while also educating our peers on key issues such as water conservation and Green Team initiatives.

It was especially rewarding to see participation grow throughout the year. Watching students engage more deeply in co-curricular life and environmental action made us feel proud, accomplished, and confident that our efforts were making a real difference.

YEAR 5

Top Row: Mansikha Maharana, Nicole Sun, Claire Jia, Olivia Li, Tian Xin Kang, Tesia Gu, Yuko Walsh, Wun Wun Yang, Zi Shen Li, Sharmaine Pritchard

2nd Row: Carla Gardam, Theia Sarawgi, Hayley Porter, Qimeng Yang, Rebecca Wang, Zoe Huynh, Anlai Yu, Ira Kamath, Melody Chen, Isobel Kerr, Justine Hamilton

3rd Row: Vrushali Amrita Rajeev, Emily Feng, Riley Yadav, Olivia Xu, Athina Kanarev, Bonnie Xu, Brooke Lac, Vishaka Hewabajjamage, Amelia Saricam, Ellie Kim

4th Row: Ariana Eda, Kwan Lok Wong, Fathima Zoha Mohamed Aflal, Celine Li, Minxuan Lin, Charlotte Seng, Zoe Buccella, Lauren Huynh, Kay Lee Foong

YEAR 6

Top Row: Lily Downes, Wanqi Huang, Yixiao Cui, Liana Razzaghighadikolaei, Esha Lingaretnam, Christina Richert, Maya Mohseni, Olivia Morgan

3rd Row: Meredith Harris, Charlotte Singh, Audrey Li, Yu Rong Shi, Emily Enverga, Nicole Zheng, Jiayi Xin, Ella Zheng, Devya Gupta

2nd Row: Rachel Carpenter, Zhiyi Fei, Yuru Bai, En Xi Li, Jessica Shen, Katherine Manolidis, Angie Dong, Qixuan Yang, Evelyn Jiang, Xinran Yu, Justine Hamilton

1st Row: Maya Sivayoganathan, Ira Dand, Zihan Li, Olivia Salim, Ashley Hsieh, Khloe Chen, Zoe Li, Sofia Hartnett

YEAR 7

Top Row: Yuxi Ma, Prisha Mangukiya, Rui Qi Li, Tia Gupta, Eliza Bourke, Ara Amir, Vivian Tran, Ananya Chekka, Leena Bhat, Wei Sun, Veronica Wang, Anna Yung, Xinlai Yu, Sage Stone, Amanda Yung, Onelli Wimalasuriya, Raina Stribbling, Louisa Fung, Tiffany Zhou

2nd Row: Michelle Maglitto, Claire Wang, Yong-Qian Chan, Kayleen Kang, Sonali Koelmeyer, Shreya Garg, Shalina Hananto, Stella Zhao, Carol Lou, Moxuan Li, Lydia Wang, Minghan Chai, Angeliex Xu, Sera Tankir, Alisha Chen, Haana Pedram, Fatima Anwar, Allegra Maharaj

3rd Row: Nikki Fowkes, Jiayi Xin, Camilla Be, Amy Gillman, Anna Li, Rosea Khorram, Xinyan Gu, Charlotte Kemp, Cynthia Dong, Ebony Southward, Sharmeen Kaur, Baishakhi Choudhury, Ritisha Rao, Alyssa Xiao, Justine Hamilton

4th Row: Allanah Fuss, Gisele To, Chaelyn Lim, Amaryah Rajasagaram, Isabelle Wang, Zara Poon, Lillian Xue, Katelyn Chan, Jacqueline Xinyao Zhang, Inaayah Altaf, Qingyi Song, Danika Mendis

Not Featured: Claudia Huang

YEAR 8

Row: Charlie Lau, Charlotte Salimi, Chloe Shen, Andrea Chan, Erica Lau, Tze Ning Chu, Yueshan Gao, Madeleine Whitehead, Yoyo Fan, Abigail Leung, Phoebe Lin, Eva Ran Hui Bai, Abigail Long, Chaitra Madhujith, Ivana Cheung, Xinran Du

3rd Row: Kate Ruzicka, Yuehan Huang, Amelia Fang, Gargi Naik, Yanruyu Miao, Caitlin Membrey, Allison Shi, Lan Duong, Charlene Choy, Nicoletta Bakirtzis, Surya Gupta, Charlotte Wilsmore, Clarissa Hagues, Yuxuan Fu, Ruimi Zhang, Caitlin Rosewarne

2nd Row: Elliot Strand, Manasvi Kommidi, Zi Xuan Zhai, Ava Small, Catherine Zhang, Mia Kaili Rui, Scarlet Campbell, Chelsea Dong, Emily Semczyszyn, Olive Nantes, Bridget Southward, Catherine Li, Justine Hamilton, Chris Williams

1st Row: Qingyang Tang, Hana Sameer, Katara Haran, Caitlin Huang, Hannah Wei, Avery Shi, Joelle Calder, Hailey Yeung, Holly Pace, Charlotte McNally, Zoe Sun, Rae Ann Foong

Not Featured: Rebecca Ang, Xiaoyu Chang, Laura Feng, Dengguoer Liu, Mia Nguyen, Eden Tan, Angeline Zhou

Top

YEAR 5

TEACHERS: Carla Gardam & Sharmaine Pritchard

Brooke Lac, Mumu Kang, Charlotte Wong, Theia Sarawgi MAKING FRIENDS:

At the beginning of the year, everyone was there to help and guide one another. Our experience has been wonderful. When we first joined Fintona, everyone was so welcoming and caring, you would never feel left out. We made a lot of new friends, and we love how they treat us nicely and respectfully. We have met so many new people during the school year. It is fun making new friends. Everyone is included and is kind to each other like a big family. We always look after each other.

Rebecca Wang, Celine Li, Olivia Li SOVEREIGN HILL CAMP:

In Term 1, we went on an educational, threeday trip to Sovereign Hill. We learnt about the history of the Australian Gold Rush, which began in earnest in 1851. Everyone went into mines underground, which used to be real mines with actual gold veins. The tour taught us about how miners mined for gold. Overall, we learnt a lot about history and made numerous friends and connections along the way.

Bonnie Xu, Zoe Huynh, Joyce Li, Zoe Buccella HOUSE:

House this year has been a big step for the Year 5 students. We participated in so many House activities, including House Cross Country, House Swimming, House Music and House Athletics. All these activities were memorable, and we all had lots of fun. House is such a great way to bond and work on teamwork across the school. A particular highlight is trying to get points towards House Colours. Everyone had a blast!

Kay Lee Foong, Zoha Mohamed Aflal, Melody Chen, Claire Jia CO-CURRICULAR:

The Year 5 students participated in numerous co-curricular activities. Some activities included orchestras, lunchtime clubs and representing the School at GSV and SSV. Our favourite lunchtime club was Cooking Club, which was fun and taught us recipes that you can prepare at home, and we got to eat the tasty food!

Vishaka Hewabajjamage, Isobel Kerr, Hayley Porter HIGHLIGHTS:

The difference between Year 4 and Year 5 is immense in both the work and opportunities. You have a love-hate relationship with your locker buddy who can drop their belongings on your head! Our teacher introduced us to a new spelling program. It made us very proficient with our spelling! In Science we worked in the labs, did practicals for the first time and participated in Science Talent Search for the first time.

Riley Yadav, Ira Kamath, Athina Kanarev, Tesia Gu CAMP COONAWARRA:

We had lots of fun together at Camp Coonawarra. The bus trip with our partners was long but very enjoyable. We did lots of fun activities. Hut making was great because they threw water at us and it was hilarious. Raft making was fun because we all worked as a team. The flying fox was super fun but scary, and most of all we liked the giant swing. We were told it was going to be the best food ever and it was. We loved spending time with each other in our cabins as well as getting to hang outside together during downtime.

Chloe Yu, Charlotte Seng, Amrita Rajeev, Ariana Eda, Emily Feng CABARET NIGHT:

In Term 1, we prepared for the upcoming event. Cabaret night was a fun night to perform our talents, and Year 5 was ready to perform our well-rehearsed song, Blame It on the Boogie Everyone was extremely excited and knew our four weeks of rehearsing would pay off. We all arrived early, and we chilled in the waiting room, and we did an amazing job.

Matilda Lin, Ellie Kim, Nicole Sun, Lauren Huynh ENCHANTED ADVENTURE:

We went to the Enchanted Adventure! When we arrived, we prepared to have fun. First, we went on the tube slide. We walked up the mountain-like slope, dragging our heavy tubes. We got lifted up by an instructor and we went down the hill, with water sprayed on our face. We also went through a curvy maze, a low ropes course and played in a playground. Finally, it was time to go home. We had so much fun; it was the best day ever!

Olivia Xu, Mansikha Maharana, Iris Yang, Amelia Saricam, Yuko Walsh WERRIBEE ZOO:

When the Year 5 students went to Werribee Zoo, we boarded the bus at exactly 8.45am. Our bus driver was amazingly friendly and let us play whichever song we preferred. We sang along to the songs playing on the bus, and the one-hour bus drive, there and back, passed in a blur. The safari was extraordinary, and we were extremely close to the animals, and it was fascinating. We got to see the newly arrived elephants and the adorable wallabies. We deeply appreciated this lovely experience and thank the School for providing us with this amazing opportunity.

YEAR 6

TEACHERS: Meredith Harris & Tara Kapoor

Yuru Bai, Katherine Manolidis, Olivia Salim ENGLISH:

English this year was full of engaging and knowledgeable topics with many different sub-categories to learn about. For reading and Bookchat, we looked at a variety of reading strategies; we learnt techniques to help us understand the text Two Wolves, we read multiple texts which were fun and full of excellent storytelling. In Term 3, we read a book called No Ballet Shoes in Syria, about a young refugee, and her family’s struggles.

For writing, we focused on a wide range of texts including flash fiction, persuasive texts, writing and presenting pitches to the class. For spelling and grammar, we looked at different diagraphs and graphs that made unusual sounds.

Lily Downes, Maya Sivayoganathan, Xinran Yu DIGI TECH:

In Term 1, we focused on how to protect ourselves online. We learnt how to ensure that we keep our devices safe.

In Term 2, we chose a global goal that we needed to find a solution for. For example, poverty, good health and peace and justice.

In Term 3 we focused on fibres and how to farm them. These fibres included wool, cotton and polyester. Some of the farms we looked at included: dairy, fish and lavender farms. Overall, Digi Tech was incredibly fun.

Liliana Cui, Cindy Xin, Queeny Yang LIBRARY:

The whole of Year 6 looked forward to visiting the library every week. It is not just a period of reading and learning but also a doorway to another world. It is the time where students get lost in their books. In library, we don’t just read but we also learn about the resources we use online. The librarians taught us valuable information such as how to reference your sources for research, how to find reliable information online and how search engines work. Overall, all of Year 6 thoroughly enjoyed spending time in the library.

Emily Enverga, Elisa Li, Ella Zheng PHYSICAL EDUCATION & SPORT:

This year in PE both 6HARR and 6KAPT participated in a broad variety of sports such as basketball and swimming in Term 1, hockey and athletics in Term 2 and badminton and the health and fitness unit in Term 3.

Additionally, we played a variety of fun games in warmups. Another fitness activity we all attended was after school sport. Our cohort, occasionally with Year 5 students, participated in a plethora of sports including netball, cross country and basketball. Overall, PE and sport were an extraordinary, educational and entertaining experience.

Devya Gupta, Audrey Li, Nicole Zheng DRAMA:

In 2025 we worked on presenting skills and expressing ourselves. We performed melodrama and freeze frames in Term 1 and were introduced to its key terms and structure. Through practical and theoretical tasks, we enjoyed practising our melodrama performances within this sequence.

Some of the techniques we used during the poems, our Term 2 topic, were tableaux, canon, echo and unison. In Term 3, we learnt about Ancient Greek theatre and focused on incorporating our strengths into our performances. Moving forward, we will continue to learn about characters and their scripts. as well as learning about their status.

Ashley Hsieh, Evelyn Jiang, Angela Shi FRENCH:

In French, we learnt how to confidently say our morning routines and express dates, months and numbers. We also learnt how to steadily recite conversations, and we played engaging activities that expanded our French perspectives.

Alongside Madame Pougault and Madame Joyce, our French has vastly improved over the span of our lessons. Not only have we been able to improve our pronunciation, but we have also learnt more about the French culture. With the right preparation, even the tests weren’t that daunting.

Sofia Hartnett, Amelia Huang, Charlotte Singh MATHEMATICS:

In Maths we covered a range of topics and did lots of engaging activities. We practised our problem-solving skills in preparation for the Maths Games, Olympiads and for the AMC. We did units on BODMAS, fractions, decimals, percentages, angles, measurement and probability, and we also got to do an experiment with M&M’s.

To sharpen our multiplication skills, we did five-minute frenzies each week and we also did colour maths for homework, where we improved our maths skills by completing maths sheets that got harder the more questions we got right. We had so much fun in mathematics.

Angela Fei. Hilary Li, Liana Razzaghighadikolaei ART:

Art is a subject where we switch on our creative minds and truly explode ourselves onto the canvas. In Term 1, we learnt to draw shells in different angles and shades. In Term 2, we did printmaking on leaves and nature in different colours and went to the NGV to explore the French impressionists and different art pieces. In Term 3, we made purses and embroidery techniques based on Claude Monet’s artworks. We truly enjoyed learning all the techniques and using our imagination. We look forward to what’s going to splash into our minds next.

Angie Dong, Zoe Li, Christina Richert HUMANITIES:

Humanities is where we were able to learn a plethora of diverse topics. We began the year learning about Australian government and during this topic we flew to Canberra where we went to different places like the War Memorial, Parliament House and MoAD. When we came back to Melbourne, we finished our Prime Minister research projects and presented them to the class. We then had a topic about a life as an Indigenous person. We researched indigenous people around the world, writing a story of what they would do in a day and we wrote another story about someone we know who migrated to Australia.

Ira Dand, Maya Mohsen, Jessica Shen MUSIC:

During Music we learnt many songs such as Black Magic and practised choreography in preparation for our performance for Cabaret Night. We practised songs on the piano and learnt different keys such as minor and major. Near the beginning of Term 1 we made parodies in groups and added instruments. In orchestra, we also practised and played our instruments. In Term 2 we learned how to play Anti-Hero with some keys, beats and rhythms. We learnt Hall of the Mountain King in preparation for the Annual Music Concert. Overall, we had a thrilling and nerve-wracking year of music.

Khloe Chen, Esha Lingaretnam, Olivia Morgan SCIENCE:

In science we participated in Science Talent Search, and we had fun making diagrams, creative writing pieces, and board games. The topic was: ‘Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language’. It was hard but fun to explore the topic and it was fascinating to learn about the universe and nature’s hidden language. Everyone submitted some astounding projects and 13 lucky people got into the next round and most of them were pairs. We’ve been learning about electricity and different types of energy as well and we have also learnt about chemical science, and biological sciences.

HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

Claire Allen

2025 was a joyful and action-packed year in the Senior School, one that has reminded us of the strength of our community and the vibrancy of life at Fintona. Our students have embraced opportunities in the classroom, on the stage, in leadership and through service, and it has been a privilege to witness their growth.

The arts took centre stage, and we saw a burst of creativity and collaboration in our Senior Campus production of Treasure Island Performed in the round, it was an ambitious undertaking that brought together students from across year levels in a production that was both dynamic and memorable. It was wonderful to witness the talents of so many of our students, whether they were involved through acting, design, technical support, or backstage management.

In addition, our annual Music Concert showcased the depth and quality of our Music Program as students performed with passion, skill, and confidence. These cultural highlights continue to remind us of the importance and richness the arts bring to our school, and we look forward to the development of our new Performing Arts Centre with excitement and anticipation.

Our Year 12 leaders deserve special mention for their creativity and commitment. I would like to thank the Consuls, Stephanie Jenkins and Priyanka De Silva and our Deputy Consuls, Tori Gonsalves and Jessica Leung for the initiatives they have implemented. Their 100 Days of Year 12 celebration, marked with a joint picnic and cupcakes, was a happy milestone that reflected their ability to bring people together. Similarly, their Fostering Friendships lunch highlighted their focus on building positive connections and was an initiative that embodied our school values of optimism and compassion.

The year also saw new initiatives in the form of an action research project on the role and importance of play. Guided by myself and the Head of Junior Campus, this collaboration between the Senior School and Junior Campus brought together Year 12 and ELC students to explore the benefits of free play.

It has been inspiring to observe how play fosters creativity, problem solving, and fun, reminding us of its enduring value in every stage of life.

I am immensely proud of the way our students have embraced opportunities with enthusiasm, kindness, and courage. The Senior School remains a vibrant environment where student growth and development is evident every day, as our young people seek to do whatever they do well, with pride and commitment.

It has been a pleasure to work with the Senior School students, staff and families throughout 2025, and I look forward to building on all we have achieved into the future.

LIBRARY CAPTAIN

Issi Weedon

In 2025, Fintona’s library community continued to grow and strengthen through an array of activities taking place across the year.

The year began with a collaborative quilt, created by the Art Club students, which was hung in the Senior Campus library. This activity allowed for a creative space to discuss the girls’ favourite books and literature, as well as a space to embrace their creativity and meet new friends.

Following this, on 14 February, Fintona once again hosted Library Lover’s Day, where familiar activities such as a ‘blind date with a book’ met new traditions such as ‘book Tetris’.

Throughout the following term, some smaller events were hosted such as a bookmark making session, an indigenous reading trail, and picture book bingo. These all served to encourage collaboration of Senior Campus year levels and gave students alternative ways of enjoying reading.

In Term 3, the library held its largest event: that being Book Week. Across the five days, students were encouraged to participate in character treasure hunts, literature knowledge Kahoot’s, adventure map colouring, and other activities in line with the year’s theme Book an Adventure. This was in addition to the authors that came in to teach Year 5 and Year 6 about learning to write and to understand books on a deeper level.

At the end of that term, closing my year as Library Captain, interviews were conducted for the 2025 captaincies, with Helene Zeng being chosen for the role. Helene will be a proactive and compassionate leader and continue to foster Fintona’s culture of reading and community.

I am incredibly grateful for all the opportunities I had throughout 2025 and appreciate everyone who contributed to such a successful year in the library.

CONNECTIONS

YEAR 9 CO-ORDINATOR: Mel Grant

It has been a privilege to witness the growth and development of the Year 9 cohort as they continue to mature into thoughtful and compassionate young people. Through their active involvement with the broader Melbourne community, students have deepened their understanding of the diverse ways people live and experience the world around them.

During the year, students engaged in workshops with several organisations, from our local community, including The Big Issue and Care Net. Our fortnightly program has played a key role in connecting students with real-life stories and challenges, helping them become more engaged and responsible members of society.

The following is a reflection by Evelyn Zhang: The Connections Program has been an incredible highlight of Year 9, not only was it a fortnightly break from academics, but we were given the opportunity to explore our city and community alongside our friends. This gave us the chance to develop our independence, where our teachers were able to step back and allow us to navigate the days. We were able to step outside of the classroom and into the real world, exploring and educating ourselves with the affairs around us.

We walked through the city streets we may have passed many times before, yet we were able to hear the stories, of the people and community. Through walks with The Intersection and workshops with The Big

Issue, we were confronted with many of the issues in our society. Nevertheless, we always left the session with some sense of hope, knowing that we were aware, and that we had the ability to make change. Later in the year, we shifted our focus to contributing to solving these issues with volunteering sessions and our fundraiser for Share the Dignity.

Hands-on activities at Care Net and Impact for Women introduced most of us to volunteering experiences and provided an opportunity for us to connect the learning we have done into physical contributions. This program has created so many memories and perspectives, from learning to not accidentally leaving your friends on the tram when rushing back from lunch to the changes in perception of the world around us.

YEAR 9

Top Row: Sienna Siswojo, Sum Lam Zheng, Kalyani Shasitharan, Nayonika Jain, Alison Liang, Seohyeon Moon, Zara Chowdary, Xinle Shen, Caterina Lear, Elsa Ji, Wanzi Huang, Chereen Zhang, Melody Tran, Hana Le, Jennifer Ran Yu Bai, Vienna Wong, Yiyun Zhang, Lanxin Zhang

2nd Row: Yoko Kirkman, Olivia Tatchell, Zhiyue Zhang, Nainika Choudhury, Megan Clarke, Yulin Su, Zoe Neil, Yan Yan Qin, Bella Chen, Zixuan Fan, Karen Sun, Wai Kiu Li, Zhiqi Lin, Scarlett Ellis-Williams, Chenyu Liu, Stephanie Gillman, Charlotte Chung, Alex Harrison

3rd Row: Angela Raven, Ruby Herbert, Aya Xue, Shiza Tharani, Hei Lui Cheng, Toqa Muhammed, Meeraya Tiwari Lal, Aarushi Mihailescu, Melody Deng, Josephine Kerr-Smith, Mila Tankir, Chloe Qi, Claire Allen

1st Row: Mishka Chadha, Leonor Tinoco, Charlotte Mah, Ixlú Valentina Aguilar Oswin, Yoyo Long, Oneli Hewakoparage, Liana Lam, Jacqueline Ho, Amelie Huynh, Flora Stella Aguilar Oswin, Tayla Chan, Aakriti Suresh

Not Featured: Phoebe Zhang

YEAR 10

Top Row: Allegra Weedon, Emma Yung, Mallika Jaisinghani, Kanak Ghotra, Lauren Ho, Eloise Calder, Jenny Qiu, Ruicheng Wang, Phuong Thao Pham, Yitong Dong, Erika Liao, Yujie Cai, Maheen Akhtar, Maayra Oberoi, Xinru Tang, Riya Gupta, Chloe McNally

3rd Row: Jane Moyle, Anagi Nihalsingha, Chloe Singh, Mia He, Eliza Creek, Vienna Sood, Cheuk Tung Lam, Yuton Chen, Dexin Hu, Amelie Ashley, Yuhong Lan, Zixin Luo, Qinwen Yang, Sirui Li, Chloe Snaden, Mila Masalkovska, Anisha Jayawickrama, Esther Tan

2nd Row: Mikoto Delaney, James Sach, Amy Zhu, Kathryn Karametos, Jasmine Sethi, Evelyn Teng, Jiaxi Zhu, Audrey Masters-Fleming, Bridget Lavery, Elena Dimou, Jana Bouralexis, Kewei Yang, Della Gassert, Navya Sethi, Yahara Wimalasuriya, Claire Allen

1st Row: Ghaanavy Yathavan, Aahana Pandey, Naomi Chuang, Chloe Yung, Emma Houguet, Yi-Xin Law, Riddhee Sharma, Janet Tran, Georgia Nicola, Nia Jayasinghe, Ayesha Ahmed, Anne Chen

Not Featured: Tanishq Utsav Kapadia

YEAR 11

Top Row: Mia-Grace Wain, Ruby O’Brien, Aurelia Tropea, Ruoyun Zhao, Mahlia Ratnam, Emily Salimi, Aria Nantes, Konstantina Kapnias, Carolyn Ke, Alaina Rumpf, Alexia Stefanou, Vidya Sivakumar, Matilda Hodge

4th Row: Yee Kei Yee, Yutong Liu, Natalie Lin, Yongxi Huang, Xingyu Guo, Sofia Marmaras-Turner, Elizabeth Wotherspoon, Elise Pitts, Heidi Hsieh, Sarah Wang, Zixuan Li, Kye-May Cheong

3rd Row: Catherine Hainstock, Clare Zou, Minah Tjangdjaja, Kexin Mei, Hoi Tung Li, Sum Yin Wong, Sophie Marianne Li, Jayda Mukhlif, Tayla O’Neil, Lareesa Bindi Wagalekumbure Gedara, Ava Kirkwood, Elisa Wang, Isabella Gale, Isabel Hiu-Kei Mezzavia, Elli Burdan

2nd Row: Fabrizio Biviano, Ivanka Zhao, Chloe Saleh, Georgina Lennen, Hei Wun Cheng, Yichun Zeng, Alessia McCormack, Lucy Thomas, Teresa Chen, Isabella Madden, Claire Allen

1st Row: Marlow McCallum, Chak Yee Sit, Yixin Xiong, Miao Lan, Sophie Zeng, Shenara Vidanapathirana, Barbara Tinoco, Emilie Yu, Isha Kapur, Claire Lau Not Featured Fiona Fang

YEAR 12

Top Row: Khisha Sivajayaprakash, Anne Alexandropoulos, Alisha Lee, Lihan Guo, Katherine Hinh, Hannah Tjangdjaja, Fan Yang, Shari Pieris, Zoe Brown, Christelle Kong, Ranzi Lin, Molly McKenzie, Isabella Weedon, Josephine Nguyen, Belinda Leeton

3rd Row: Axelle Mathot, Criselle Cayetano, Adrija Dutta, Miyou Biondo, Jialin Ke, Phoebe Creek, Xianghe Wu, Maya Goonewardene, Alexandra Radze, Manni Chen, Olivia Carletti, Jiaxin Gong, Sumsum Zheng, Xiangyue Nan, Bronwyn Bye

2nd Row: Rachael Falloon, Anne-Marie Sonbol, Anna Chen-Tilley, Anbing Sun, Sophie Ang, Sylvia Kerr-Smith, Emma Lavery, Farida Taha, Haiden Toh, Jiayi Shang, Xin Ye Lei, Jiayun Xu, Claire Allen

1st Row: Zindzi Clayford, Cleo Kenos, Marcella Kedzierski, Remi Moussa, Victoria Gonsalves, Priyanka de Silva, Stephanie Jenkins, Jessica Leung, Nicola Skliris, Aleisha Malic, Annie Holland, Xiangning Wu

Not Featured: Ying Si Huo

WORLD CHALLENGE 2024

Kathryn Karametos & Lucy Thomas

A World Challenge expedition is a once in a lifetime experience, that Fintona students and staff have not been able to participate in for a number of years following the COVID pandemic and years of interrupted travel.

In December of 2024 a group of 14 students from Year 9 to Year 11 were fortunate to be able to participate in the first World Challenge since COVID and truly immerse themselves in a unique expedition to the North Island of New Zealand.

We began our adventure with excitement and curiosity upon arriving in Auckland. After a rather difficult but culturally enriching experience attempting to find dinner, we lay down in bed that night with full stomachs and anticipation for the next few days. From the bustling city, we transitioned into hands-on work at the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari conservation initiative, immersing ourselves in efforts to protect New Zealand’s unique biodiversity.

Tasks like monitoring wildlife cameras, collecting and analysing pest tracking and planting native flora gave us a sense of purpose and connection to the environment. And knowing that our work supported the sanctuary’s ability to care for the ecosystem deepened our appreciation for the impact of sustainable practices. Working alongside the rangers also taught us about the delicate balance required to sustain ecosystems.

A particularly memorable highlight was our evening with the Whanau Rika family, a welcoming Maori household. They opened their home to us, sharing their traditions and way of life in a heartwarming cultural experience. The evening began with a formal introduction to Maori customs with a Haka (welcoming dance/exchange), followed by a hangi, an authentic home-cooked meal that celebrated their culinary heritage. We sat together, listening to stories of ancestry and land stewardship, which deepened our understanding of the Maori connection to nature and community.

The following day, we explored the vibrant town of Rotorua, a place known for its geothermal

and volcanic activity and adventurous experiences. Our group enjoyed an exhilarating ride on the Skyline Gondola, followed by racing down the luge track, with many of us competing to see who could master the twists and turns, and then Mr Williams flew down at the speed of light. The zipline offered an extra thrill, combining the excitement of soaring above the treetops with stunning aerial views of Rotorua’s lush landscapes. These activities created shared moments of laughter and excitement, bringing the team even closer. Later, we had the chance to cheer on the Whanau Rika family’s son as he played in a local rugby tournament. Witnessing his passion and dedication for the sport as well as the local camaraderie at the event was truly inspiring.

The physical challenges of trekking through the Pureora Forest were both rewarding and transformative, pushing us beyond our comfort zones while fostering a profound connection with the natural world. Over six days, we traversed diverse terrains, from dense native bush to rocky ridges and steep ascents that demanded focus, endurance, and teamwork. Carrying full packs through the wilderness tested our strength and adaptability, particularly as we learned to navigate without modern conveniences. Each evening, we worked together to set up camp in remote areas, cooking meals on gas stoves, and sharing stories under the stars, which created a sense of camaraderie that grew stronger with each passing day.

Highlights of the trek included reaching the summit of Pureora at 1,165 metres, where we were greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Taupo, Tongariro, and the surrounding landscapes. The ascent was challenging, with steep climbs and uneven terrain, but the sense of achievement and awe upon reaching the peak made every effort worthwhile. Trekking through tranquil valleys, crossing crystal-clear streams, and navigating scenic ridgelines offered moments of serenity and introspection, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the pristine beauty of New Zealand’s natural environment.

The trek was not without its obstacles—blisters, fatigue, and unpredictable weather tested our resilience but overcoming these challenges as a team made the experience even more impactful. We learned the value of preparation and resourcefulness, from managing our supplies to supporting one another during moments of difficulty. Every task, whether it was navigating trails, clearing campsites, or encouraging a teammate, reinforced the importance of collaboration and perseverance.

Beyond the physical aspect, the trek instilled a deeper appreciation for the environment and the effort required to preserve it. Witnessing the beauty of the Pureora forest reminded us of the important role we play in protecting such spaces for future generations and highlighted the significance of our work completed during the Maungatautari conservation initiative. By the end of the journey, we were not only stronger and more united as a team but also more mindful of the interconnectedness between ourselves and the natural world.

As the trip concluded with some much-needed rest and relaxation in Wellington, we reflected on the journey’s profound impact. The expedition was not just about the places we visited but about the personal growth we experienced. It reminded us of the value of stepping out of our comfort zones, embracing challenges, and finding joy in shared accomplishments.

The team unanimously agreed that World Challenge 2024 was more than just a trip; it was a transformative experience that will stay with us forever. The lessons we learned about resilience, teamwork, and adaptability are skills we will carry forward into our daily lives. As we reflect on the friendships formed, the adventures undertaken, and the perspectives gained, we know this journey has shaped us in ways that will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come.

A big thank you to Mr Chris Williams, Mrs Kate Brooke and Mrs Alex Harrison for their support in preparation for and during the trip, we could not have done it without you.

STEM CAPTAIN

Nina Lei

2025 was another eventful year of STEM. The consistent engagement from students coupled with the encouragement and support from teachers created an environment of curiosity, resilience, optimism, and passion throughout all aspects of STEM. As always, students had the opportunity to participate in a myriad of competitions including (but not limited to) the Australian Mathematical Competition, the Science Talent Search, Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Competition, and the Australian Science Innovation Science Olympiads. I would like to congratulate students for their efforts and achievements in the various competitions that they participated in during the year.

We launched three STEM related lunchtime clubs spanning a variety of disciplines: Math Club, in which students apply mathematics

concepts into games and puzzles; Astrophysics Club, where students were able to learn about the universe and how it works; and Science Club, in which students explored different scientific concepts through hands-on experiences. In these sessions, students were able to explore more specific aspects of STEM that excite them.

In addition, we saw the success of Fintona’s biennial STEM week in 2025. During this week, students were able to participate in a plethora of lunchtime activities including a STEM themed escape room, a titration competition, a party simulation activity, a TI-nspire Micro:Bit session, a windmill modelling session, and a fitness app development activity. Special thanks to our speakers and presenters Dr Ritu Taneja, Dr Kerry Morgan, Catherine Newtington, Peter Fox, and Mrs Sharmaine Pritchard for assisting in making STEM week so successful.

I would also like to thank the STEM staff and my peers for their consistent efforts

and encouragement that have allowed STEM to flourish at Fintona. Specifically, I would like to extend my thanks to Ms Esther Tan, Mr Kevin Christofelsz, Ms Kim Ubert, Jessica Leung, Adrija Dutta, and Laura Nan for elevating STEM throughout 2025.

LANGUAGES CAPTAIN

Sophie Ang

At Fintona, we are so fortunate to have the opportunity to learn multiple languages, allowing us to broaden our understanding of culture, practices and conversation. Each year students always show perseverance and enthusiasm in the learning of languages, and 2025 was no different.

The Languages Helpdesk ran each week and was an opportunity for students to get assistance or extend themselves with the help of a student in Year 12. Whether revising grammar patterns, vocabulary or engaging in conversation, students were able to practise in a different environment to the classroom. It was incredibly gratifying for Year 12 students to share our passion with others.

French and Japanese students had the opportunity to further their listening skills through lunchtime showings of an animated movie in each language, once a term. Played in the original audio with English subtitles, the students were encouraged to recognise words and phrases while learning about cultural practices and the language in conversation.

As for those taking Latin, an informative and enjoyable film was shown, encouraging the consolidation of their knowledge of historical events, society and customs.

In July, we warmly welcomed our muchanticipated French and Japanese exchange students from Notre Dame Les Oiseaux and Yokohama Eiwa into the Fintona community. During their visit, they were able to gain a greater understanding of Australian culture and attend classes with their host sisters. Languages Week coincided with their visit, where a range of delicious French, Japanese or Latin-themed treats were available at the Tuckshop. Students were encouraged to represent their House group through an exhilarating quiz based around each language.

I would like to thank the extremely hardworking language teachers, without whom our flourishing language program could not exist, as well as the Fintona students who always bring such passion and diligence to their language studies.

SHAKESPEARE DAY

ENGLISH LEARNING LEADER: Michelle Maglitto

A Timeless Celebration of Literature and Performance

The earth has music for those who listen

- William Shakespeare

These words beautifully capture the essence of the 86th annual Fintona Shakespeare Day, where the rhythm of language and the harmony of performance came together in a memorable celebration of classic literature. Held in Term 1 in the enchanting Tourmont Courtyard, the event brought the community together to witness students from Year 9 to Year 12 breathe new life into scenes from Shakespeare’s most beloved works.

This long-standing, cherished tradition, dating back to 1938, began as a modest assembly with students reading sonnets in honour of Shakespeare’s birthday. Over time, it has evolved into one of the school’s most anticipated events, reflecting a deep and lasting appreciation for literature, performance, and artistic expression.

The afternoon opened with moving classical music that set a reflective tone, followed by the

Masters of Ceremony sharing the event’s rich history. Audiences were then treated to a range of dramatic and comedic scenes performed by students: Romeo and Juliet (Year 9), Much Ado About Nothing (Year 10), Hamlet (Year 11), and two renditions of Macbeth—one by Year 12 and the other by the Falstaff (staff) Players. The audience experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as they were entertained by the performances. The audience’s reactions filled the Tourmont Courtyard, with horrified gasps and roaring laughter echoing off the brick walls.

Each performance reminded us that while centuries may separate us from Shakespeare’s time, the emotions and struggles within his stories remain profoundly human. Whether it is the destructive force of unchecked ambition in Macbeth or the tragic cost of feuding families in Romeo and Juliet, his works continue to resonate today.

Shakespeare Day once again succeeded in blending tradition with creativity, offering a space where students explore timeless messages about the human condition through performance. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this special event, helping ensure that Shakespeare’s voice—his ‘music’— has continued to be heard at Fintona for over eight decades.

HUMANITIES FESTIVAL

HUMANITIES LEARNING LEADER: Belinda Leeton

The Humanities Festival is an annual celebration of the diverse subjects that make up the Humanities domain. In a world shaped by rapid technological advancement and ongoing global challenges, studying the Humanities helps us understand the core aspects of human life.

It fosters critical thinking, communication, and empathy — skills that allow us to see the world from different perspectives and make informed, compassionate decisions. From uncovering ancient civilisations to exploring contemporary issues, the Humanities connect us across time and cultures, reminding us that our shared stories, values, and creativity lie at the heart of human progress.

This year’s Festival began with a special assembly highlighting the rich opportunities available to students who study the Humanities. Our guest speaker, Alyssa Fjeld, a PhD candidate in palaeontology at Monash University and an enthusiastic science communicator, shared insights from her work and experiences. Alyssa’s research

explores the evolution of early invertebrate animal groups, including measuring ancient arthropods’ midsections to better understand growth patterns. Alongside her scientific pursuits, Alyssa is deeply involved in education and outreach, inspiring students in Australia and abroad through her passion for discovery and lifelong learning.

Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of engaging lunchtime activities. The festival opened with a lively Model United Nations Assembly, where teachers and students debated a draft resolution. Other popular events included screenings of History and Geography-themed videos, Humanities-based board games, and interactive Kahoots that brought learning to life.

Two themed competitions added extra excitement to the week. The ‘Cookies of the World’ baking competition invited students to bake and present cookies inspired by their culture, heritage, or country of origin. The results were both delicious and diverse —

from Australian ANZAC biscuits and Greek Koulourakia to Japanese matcha cookies and English jammy dodgers. Prizes were awarded across multiple categories, and the sale of these treats at Friday’s Fashion Parade raised an impressive $280 for Share the Dignity charity.

The ‘A Moment in Time’ Art Competition also showcased incredible creativity, with entries across a range of mediums. Congratulations to all who participated and to the winners in each category for their outstanding work.

The week concluded in true style with the Festival Fashion Parade, where students and staff dressed up to represent key historical figures or concepts. The creativity and effort on display were remarkable — every participant contributed to the fun and colour of the day.

A sincere thank you to all staff and students for their enthusiasm and involvement in making the 2025 Humanities Festival such a memorable and successful celebration of learning and community.

CABARET NIGHT

MUSIC LEARNING LEADER: Elliot Strand

With the theme Girl Bands and Boy Bands for the 2025 Cabaret Night, some might think it would have been a challenge for a girls’ school, but what a spectacle we were treated to. The enthusiasm and interest from the Senior Campus was striking, with students from Year 5 to Year 12 performing, and with close to 200 students participating overall, it was a fantastic evening of entertainment.

The Backstreet Boys and The Spice Girls, made an appearance, as did Queen and The Supremes. Cabaret night was another fantastic display of Fintona’s musical depth and talent, with our amazing ensembles performing and several solo/group performances.

A huge thank you to the Music Faculty staff for leading the ensembles and everyone who supported this annual event backstage, on stage, and by being in the audience. Music at Fintona continues to grow in a positive way and we should all feel encouraged to see such a large number of our students making and having such a great appreciation for music. It is enough to make all our hearts ‘sing’!

SPACE FOR Extraordinary

Everything extraordinarystarted somewhere.

At Fintona we are passionate about inspiring curiosity, building strength in character, providing opportunities … and challenging our students to persevere, beyond what they might conceive possible.

In all aspects of their learning and development we encourage them to be creative, help them develop higher order thinking skills, to embrace opportunities, master their own distinct skills and become confident and adaptable leaders.

Our students discover their passions, how they learn, and what motivates them to do what they do well because of our teachers, leaders and parents. It is not what we teach but how we teach, how we connect, and how we invite students to learn and grow. Our teachers’ energy, passion, expertise and belief in our students unleashes in them a ‘can do’ approach and this is why they achieve so much.

Our students find the courage to have a go, to stand up and to step in because of the relationships nurtured, the challenges set, and the standards and values we uphold as a community.

As a school we have always been known for developing in each student a passion for learning, indeed, a love of learning, a curiosity and desire to do what they do well. The capacity to embrace opportunities, and the outstanding presentation and performance skills that every one of our girls develops over her time here will now have a space that is worthy of their talents.

Students from Prep to Year 12 are encouraged and supported in their learning within and beyond the classroom with so many opportunities to present and perform. And this is one of the true strengths of a Fintona education.

Our new Performing Arts Centre will contribute to the growth of our students and be:

A space where curiosity becomes creativity. A space where one inspired thought changes attitudes and ideas.

A space where anything feels possible… so it becomes possible.

There will be spaces to stimulate growth and curiosity.

Spaces for learning and development. Spaces for creative expression and confidence.

Our new Performing Arts Centre will not be just any building. It will be a space for extraordinary !

boyne

HOUSE CAPTAIN: Zoe Brown

2025 was yet another amazing and successful year for Boyne. As House Captain, I have loved being there to lead the House every step of the way through every meeting, event and performance.

As a House we all truly stepped up and demonstrated what it means to be a part of Boyne, displaying strength, determination, camaraderie and most importantly red-hot spirit in every event. Most notably these values carried us towards our incredible highlight victories in House Drama and House Swimming.

We also came together as a House to perform a nostalgic-fuelled rendition of One Direction’s Night Changes along with a beautiful instrumental interpretation of Landslide by Fleetwood Mac, where we scored a solid fourth place. In addition to these successes, we have had outstanding participation in all events during the year, which was a wonderful display of Boyne’s enthusiasm and dedication.

To help support the House in maintaining this uplifting and spirited atmosphere I introduced a brand-new House member in the form of a mascot, Elmo! Bringing in this mascot has been amazing in lifting Boyne spirits and the community as well as general excitement around attending House meetings and events.

To all the Boyne girls I would like to thank you for being such an amazing team and competing in every event to the best of your abilities and giving everything a red-hot crack! It has been such an amazing and rewarding experience being your Captain this year. I would also like to thank our Head of House, Meredith Harris. We truly could not have had this success without your support and enthusiasm in every meeting and House event.

As I move on from the role as Captain, I would like to wish the next House Captains all the best and I cannot wait to hear about Boyne’s amazing achievements in the years to come!

Mangukiya, Qingyang Tang, Caitlin Huang, Bonnie Xu, Vishaka Hewabajjamage, Qimeng Yang, Ghaanavy Yathavan

4th Row: Eliza Bourke, Ara Amir, Wei Sun, Leena Bhat, Qixuan Yang, Shalina Hananto, Angie Dong, Ivana Cheung, Ruimi Zhang, Tze Ning Chu, Sum Lam Zheng, En Xi Li, Yong-Qian Chan, Nicole Zheng, Anne Chen, Aakriti Suresh

3rd Row: Manasvi Kommidi, Anna Li, Nayonika Jain, Qinwen Yang, Konstantina Kapnias, Aria Nantes, Aurelia Tropea, Alaina Rumpf, Shenara Vidanapathirana, Olive Nantes, Mallika Jaisinghani, Xinru Tang, Catherine Zhang, Moxuan Li

2nd Row Vienna Sood, Olivia Tatchell, Karen Sun, Yee Kei Yee, Navya Sethi, Toqa Muhammed, Scarlet Campbell, Clare Zou, Xingyu Guo, Zixuan Fan, Caterina Lear, Zara Chowdary, Elise Pitts

1st Row: Chloe Saleh, Evelyn Teng, Anbing Sun, Victoria Gonsalves, Nicola Skliris, Zoe Brown, Meredith Harris, Alisha Lee, Sumsum Zheng, Miyou Biondo, Jiayi Shang, Shiza Tharani

Not Featured: Riddhee Sharma

Top Row: Nicole Sun, Claire Jia, Vrushali Amrita Rajeev, Anlai Yu, Olivia Morgan, Yuxi Ma, Jacqueline Xinyao Zhang, Athina Kanarev, Xinlai Yu, Prisha

clarke

HOUSE CAPTAINS: Annie Holland & Shari Pieris

We are so proud of all the Clarkites for their incredible efforts, energy, and enthusiasm throughout 2025. Whether competing, performing, or cheering from the sidelines, the Clarke girls have continued to inspire us with their determination, spirit, and willingness to get involved. It was so amazing to watch everyone step up and do their very best for pale blue across all year levels.

One of our biggest highlights of the year was the fantastic win in Cross Country. From the very first race, the energy was electric. The cheering from the spectators and participants was just as powerful as the runners on the

course, and every Clarkite, no matter their placing, gave it their all. It was a perfect example of the teamwork, resilience, and encouragement that defines our House. Seeing everyone rally together to achieve such a memorable victory was something truly special.

Another pinnacle of the year was our victory in Athletics. It was so wonderful to see everyone move out of their comfort zone and try new things, whether it was an event that needed to be filled on the day or even just putting a hand up for something you had never done before, we believe that you all truly embodied and demonstrated what it means to be a part

of this amazing House, which was ultimately affirmed in our brilliant 2025 House Cup win and presentation at Valedictory Evening.

We would like to thank our fellow Year 12 Clarke girls for always supporting us, stepping in when needed, and leading by example. Your encouragement and teamwork have been invaluable throughout the year. And of course, a huge thank you to our wonderful Heads of House, Mrs Kate Brooke and Ms Sheryl Manassa, for their constant enthusiasm, guidance, and encouragement.

Danika Mendis, Wun Wun Yang, Lauren Huynh, Sofia Hartnett

4th Row: Maya Mohseni, Chloe Yung, Vidya Sivakumar, Isabella Gale, Minghan Chai, Sonali Koelmeyer, Oneli Hewakoparage, Mia He, Miao Lan, Hailey Yeung, Jiayi Xin, Jacqueline Ho, Matilda Hodge, Inaayah Altaf, Aahana Pandey

3rd Row: Claire Wang, Zhiyue Zhang, Chloe Shen, Yuxuan Fu, Ritisha Rao, Carolyn Ke, Mila Masalkovska, Wanzi Huang, Allison Shi, Abigail Leung, Phoebe Lin, Liana Lam, Emilie Yu, Hana Le

2nd Row: Zi Xuan Zhai, Ruby Herbert, Amy Zhu, Cynthia Dong, Audrey Masters-Fleming, Elena Dimou, Bridget Lavery, Alessia McCormack, Mia Kaili Rui, Chloe Snaden, Lareesa Bindi Wagalekumbure Gedara, Phoebe Zhang

1st Row: Yuhong Lan, Xinyan Gu, Jessica Leung, Xianghe Wu, Sophie Ang, Shari Pieris, Kate Brooke, Annie Holland, Emma Lavery, Cleo Kenos, Xiangning Wu, Alexia Stefanou, Megan Clarke

Not Featured: Rebecca Ang, Xiaoyu Chang, Sheryl Manassa

Top Row: Ira Dand, Fathima Zoha Mohamed Aflal, Ariana Eda, Charlotte Seng, Olivia Salim, Allanah Fuss, Zoe Li, Qingyi Song, Zoe Sun, Riley Yadav,

hughston

HOUSE CAPTAINS: Aleisha Malic & Ranzi Lin

From the first time we stood up in front of Hughston as House Captains, we knew 2025 would be something special. We were not just handed the privilege to lead Hughston – we became part of a story written by every single person in it. Each cheer, each rehearsal, each small act of encouragement was woven into a year we will always carry with us.

House Drama was one of those chaotic, fun chapters of that story. Our Oscar-worthy actors and dedicated dancers poured their hearts into a performance worthy of a Golden Globe, bringing home second place – an incredible achievement by the entire

House. House Drama taught us patience, the power of listening, and the importance of lifting up those whose strengths outshone our own – so together we could achieve more than any one person could alone.

Then came Athletics Day, when Hughston turned up in our royal blue costumes. The sea of blue flooding the stands and sidelines was a reminder of the pride we all carried for our House. It was not just about the ribbons or the points on the board, it was about cheering until our voices became hoarse, running alongside each other on the last stretch of a race, and celebrating every effort, big or small.

House Music brought together the incredible musicians of Hughston, talented students from a range of year levels contributing their ideas to create something to blow the judges away. We worked tirelessly from writing harmonies to weaving harmonies and building an angelic ensemble of Vienna by Billy Joel, and composition of When We Were Young by Adele.

We will miss seeing our Hughston girls every Wednesday morning and forever remember the memories we have made together. Go Hughston and good luck for next year!

Esha Lingaretnam, Charlotte McNally, Amanda Yung, Nia Jayasinghe, Anna Yung, Onelli Wimalasuriya, Liana Razzaghighadikolaei, Isabelle Wang, Chaelyn Lim, Emily Feng, Claudia Huang, Zoe Huynh, Maya Sivayoganathan

3rd Row: Charlotte Mah, Andrea Chan, Amelie Huynh, Fatima Anwar, Amy Gillman, Camilla Be, Clarissa Hagues, Catherine Li, Kalyani Shasitharan, Emma Yung, Evelyn Jiang, Gargi Naik, Angeliex Xu, Haana Pedram, Sienna Siswojo, Yuehan Huang, Yoyo Long

2nd Row: Chloe McNally, Charlotte Chung, Natalie Lin, Cheuk Tung Lam, Yan Yan Qin, Yahara Wimalasuriya, Melody Deng, Jayda Mukhlif, Yichun Zeng, Dexin Hu, Elisa Wang, Sirui Li, Erika Liao, Sophie Zeng, Stephanie Gillman, Lauren Ho

1st Row: Marlow McCallum, Khisha Sivajayaprakash, Jiayun Xu, Adrija Dutta, Olivia Carletti, Aleisha Malic, Paul Kelly, Ranzi Lin, Anne-Marie Sonbol, Manni Chen, Lihan Guo, Isabel Hiu-Kei Mezzavia, Kye-May Cheong

Not Featured: Isabella Madden, Mia Nguyen, Qimeng Yang, Xinran Yu, Angeline Zhou

Top Row: Olivia Li, Hayley Porter, Melody Chen, Hana Sameer, Lily Downes, Raina Stribbling,

HOUSE CAPTAINS: Molly McKenzie & Farida Taha

2025 was a fun and successful year for Maxwell House, with many memories made and the House displaying their individual talents and teamwork through the year.

Being the leaders of Maxwell House in 2025 has been an incredibly rewarding experience. From the beginning of the year, the energy, spirit, and enthusiasm of our fellow Maxwellians made this role feel more like a privilege than a responsibility. Our House embodies fun, friendship, togetherness, and family, which have been present in everything we have done this year, and it has been amazing to watch how deeply everyone embraced every task and competition.

A particular highlight was House Music, where Maxwell girls demonstrated passion and style. We could not have been prouder of the incredible show that Maxwell produced. Every student played their part, and the result was a professional, high-energy performance that truly set the tone for the year ahead. The effort, dedication, and creativity that went into that night showed us what being a Maxwellian is all about.

Another unforgettable event was House Athletics. The determination and teamwork displayed on the track and field were inspiring. Whether it was running, jumping, throwing, or cheering from the sidelines, every student gave it their all. The hard work

paid off—not just in results, but in the sense of unity and pride we all felt as a House.

Throughout the year, it was the little moments as well that contributed to our success – from lunchtime meetings to early mornings in the Annie Hughston Centre – and reminded us why Maxwell is more than a House; it is ‘a family.’

Leading this group of enthusiastic, kindhearted, and spirited individuals has been an absolute joy. We will always be proud to be Maxwellians, and even prouder to have helped lead such an incredible House in 2025.

Shi, Holly Pace, Lanxin Zhang, Yi-Xin Law, Janet Tran, Seohyeon Moon, Eva Ran Hui Bai, Isha Kapur, Claire Lau, Zhiyi Fei, Audrey Li, Ashley Hsieh, Brooke Lac, Amaryah Rajasagaram, Amelia Saricam, Tian Xin Kang

3rd Row: Yoyo Fan, Jennifer Ran Yu Bai, Erica Lau, Caitlin Membrey, Wai Kiu Li, Chenyu Liu, Rosea Khorram, Alyssa Xiao, Maayra Oberoi, Maheen Akhtar, Alisha Chen, Yujie Cai, Allegra Maharaj, Chak Yee Sit, Xinle Shen, Amelia Fang, Jessica Shen, Georgia Nicola, Abigail Long

2nd Row: Zixin Luo, Ebony Southward, Charlotte Kemp, Josephine Kerr-Smith, Aya Xue, Bella Chen, Teresa Chen, Lucy Thomas, Kexin Mei, Hoi Tung Li, Minah Tjangdjaja, Bridget Southward, Heidi Hsieh, Anagi Nihalsingha

1st Row: Mahlia Ratnam, Ruicheng Wang, Fan Yang, Remi Moussa, Sylvia Kerr-Smith, Molly McKenzie, Rachel Carpenter, Farida Taha, Stephanie Jenkins, Haiden Toh, Jialin Ke, Hannah Tjangdjaja, Charlene Choy

Not Featured: Dengguoer Liu

Top Row: Mansikha Maharana, Ellie Kim, Ira Kamath, Lillian Xue, Rui Qi Li, Yixiao Cui, Yu Rong

murdoch

HOUSE CAPTAINS: Criselle Cayetano & Phoebe Creek

The 2025 House year was another very successful one for Murdoch, with the girls consistently showing remarkable House spirit and enthusiasm and incredible support for their fellow House sisters. It has been a delight to lead such a hard-working group, and we could not be prouder of the Murdoch girls for the way they have carried themselves through all the events.

From sweating it out in Cross Country and Netball, cheering each other on in Athletics and Swimming, working together at House Drama and Debating, and singing our hearts out for House Music, the year proved how strong and united Murdoch

House is. We have loved to watch people grow as they push themselves outside their comfort zone, and the encouragement from their peers was truly special to see.

To start off the 2024-25 House year, Murdoch came out firing, winning both House Netball and Summer House Carnival! Both events highlighted extraordinary teamwork and support, which really set the tone for a successful and fun year ahead. House Music also showcased the true Murdochian spirit, with the girls working together to coordinate harmonies, choreography and ensembles, that lead Murdoch to a narrow second place!

We would like to thank all the Murdoch girls for their efforts, and for making us feel so welcome as your Murdoch House Captains. To our fellow Year 12 students and Head of House, Mrs Bryn Loughrey, for the support throughout, working behind the scenes, we truly could not have done it without you.

We will certainly miss our Murdoch sisters, which stands as a testament to the wonderful House community we have. We wish Murdoch and the 2026 House Captains the best for the coming year. Go Murdoch!!

Top Row: Celine Li, Tesia Gu, Rebecca Wang, Gisele To, Olivia Xu, Tayla Chan, Ixlú Valentina Aguilar Oswin, Veronica Wang, Joelle Calder, Yueshan Gao, Ella Zheng, Emily Enverga, Xinran Du, Ananya Chekka, Emma Houguet, Flora Stella Aguilar Oswin, Katelyn Chan, Louisa Fung, Zihan Li, Yuko Walsh, Minxuan Lin

3rd Row: Katara Haran, Sera Tankir, Jiayi Xin, Kanak Ghotra, Yixin Xiong, Vienna Wong, Yanruyu Miao, Ruby O’Brien, Zhiqi Lin, Yongxi Huang, Sarah Wang, Elsa Ji, Katherine Manolidis, Madeleine Whitehead, Yiyun Zhang, Sharmeen Kaur, Stella Zhao, Carol Lou

2nd Row: Eliza Creek, Sum Yin Wong, Chloe Qi, Amelie Ashley, Jiaxi Zhu, Tayla O’Neil, Hei Lui Cheng, Hei Wun Cheng, Ava Kirkwood, Della Gassert, Kewei Yang, Yuton Chen, Mila Tankir, Sofia Marmaras-Turner

1st Row: Emily Semczyszyn, Eloise Calder, Nicoletta Bakirtzis, Xiangyue Nan, Marcella Kedzierski, Phoebe Creek, Bryndyll Loughrey, Criselle Cayetano, Jiaxin Gong, Katherine Hinh, Anna Chen-Tilley, Jenny Qiu, Lan Duong

Not Featured: Laura Feng, Ying Si Huo, Tanishq Utsav Kapadia, Elizabeth Wotherspoon

HOUSE CAPTAIN: Maya Goonewardene

2025 has been yet another exciting and rewarding year for Ower, highlighting our spirit, teamwork and dedication. I am incredibly proud of every Owerian for giving their best in all our House events and for showing such determination, collaboration and pride in everything we undertook.

We began the year with House Swimming, where our energy and commitment earned us an impressive 2nd place. This was followed by House Cross Country, in which we secured 3rd place. With multiple Owerians earning 1st, 2nd or 3rd place in both these events. A testament to the persistence and endurance of our runners and swimmers.

One of the most memorable highlights was House Music, where we proudly claimed 1st place. Our whole-House performance of Somewhere Only We Know by Keane was heartfelt, with every voice blending beautifully in an amazing three-part harmony.

For our instrumental piece, we performed Yesterday by the Beatles, a timeless classic that allowed our talented musicians to shine. There was a huge variety of instruments, including violins, double bass, cello, flutes, clarinet, triangle, piano and the guzheng! I am so proud and amazed at the dedication of all our musicians who showed up to practices and collaborated to create a captivating and skilful performancethat truly entranced the audience.

These successes were not just about winning; they reflected the preparation, unity and encouragement that everyone contributed. From rehearsals to race days. From the stage to the sidelines, everyone played their part in making the year so special!

As I reflect on these moments, I am grateful to be part of such a supportive community and wish for Ower’s continued success in the years ahead. I know the spirit that has been built will carry forward and I will always cherish the memories we have created in the House.

Thank you to Heads of House, Emily Erwin and Fairlie Marsland, and to every Ower House member for their efforts and support.

Zara Poon, Charlotte Singh, Christina Richert, Khloe Chen, Isobel Kerr, Zoe Buccella, Zi Shen Li

4th Row: Tia Gupta, Ayesha Ahmed, Vivian Tran, Hannah Wei, Riya Gupta, Charlie Lau, Barbara Tinoco, Zoe Neil, Charlotte Wilsmore, Chaitra Madhujith, Charlotte Salimi, Kayleen Kang, Avery Shi, Sage Stone, Naomi Chuang

3rd Row: Baishakhi Choudhury, Yuru Bai, Alison Liang, Chereen Zhang, Surya Gupta, Allegra Weedon, Yutong Liu, Nainika Choudhury, Zixuan Li, Anisha Jayawickrama, Yulin Su, Melody Tran, Mishka Chadha, Lydia Wang, Ruoyun Zhao

2nd Row: Phuong Thao Pham, Ava Small, Kathryn Karametos, Jana Bouralexis, Aarushi Mihailescu, Meeraya Tiwari Lal, Georgina Lennen, Ivanka Zhao, Jasmine Sethi, Sophie Marianne Li, Chelsea Dong, Scarlett Ellis-Williams, Yitong Dong

1st Row: Chloe Singh, Mia-Grace Wain, Isabella Weedon, Christelle Kong, Xin Ye Lei, Alexandra Radze, Emily Erwin, Fairlie Marsland, Maya Goonewardene, Priyanka de Silva, Anne Alexandropoulos, Zindzi Clayford, Josephine Nguyen, Emily Salimi

Not Featured: Fiona Fang, Eden Tan

Top Row: Kay Lee Foong, Kwan Lok Wong, Theia Sarawgi, Rae Ann Foong, Wanqi Huang, Shreya Garg, Jacqueline Xinyao Zhang, Devya Gupta, Leonor Tinoco,

MUSIC CAPTAIN

Katherine Hinh

Commencing the formal music calendar with Cabaret Night, this evening showcased the diverse talents of our Fintona girls, from dancing and singing to performing in ensembles. Soloists and groups captivated the audience with performances linked to the theme Boy Bands and Girl Bands exploring a variety of eras, genres, and cultural influences. It was inspiring to see such talent displayed with bright colours and enthusiasm.

Throughout the year, students performed at assemblies, lunchtime performances, Shakespeare Day, and charity events like the Biggest Morning Tea. Despite occasional lastminute opportunities, I have been immensely proud to see students step up spreading the joy of music, whether contemporary or classical.

House Music this year celebrated the theme Nostalgia. Instrumental and choir segments were heartfelt and engaging, reflecting each House’s interpretation while providing valuable lessons about teamwork, timing, and expression. Through a shared passion of music, the connections that define our Fintona community, have been reinforced.

The launch of the new Performing Arts Centre campaign marked an exciting milestone, that reflects the strong foundations of our music community. Without the dedication and creativity of everyone involved, such a centre might not have been considered.

As the 2025 Music Captain, I hope I have inspired students to perform and share music, whether solo or in groups, because the most powerful aspect of music lies in the connections it creates. In my opinion, true music success is not technical mastery, or how musically superior you can prove you are, but performing with the intention of connecting with others. This is a sentiment I hope I have spread throughout this year.

Lastly, I extend my gratitude to all teachers, staff, and students in the Music Faculty. Without your passion and dedication, music at Fintona would not have been as inspiring, joyful, or creative as it was. All the best to Music at Fintona in the years ahead

DRAMA

DRAMA LEARNING LEADER: Bronwyn Bye

The study of Drama and interaction in the dramatic arts has a myriad of benefits for student development and career pathways, it improves academic performance in reading and comprehension proficiency, verbal skills, and high order thinking skills and capacities. Moreover, participation in drama can motivate students and engender greater participation in their learning. It can also be beneficial for wellbeing through the building of confidence and self-esteem, and it has the potential to further develop social skills and a feeling of connectedness through collaboration and teamwork.

In May 2025, we entered a transformed Margaret Cunningham Hall, to be entertained by Fintona students who took up the challenge of telling an old story written by Robert Louis Stevenson, which had been adapted by Bryony Lavery, a British author and dramatist. The 2025 School Play, Treasure Island, did not disappoint.

The audience was taken on a high seas adventure as ‘Jim’, went on a quest to find the treasure of Long John Silver. With a dynamic ensemble of students from Year 7 to Year 12 and a magnificent, in-the-round set, this exciting production entertained sold-out audiences over three nights. Congratulations to all the students involved in the cast, backstage and technical crews for working together to bring this classic story to life.

DRAMA CAPTAIN

Diya Zheng

Drama at Fintona is shaped by passion, connection, and perseverance, and the 2024 –2025 Drama Program undoubtedly showcased the talent and unwavering commitment of the drama community at Fintona.

In late 2024, the six Houses all scripted, designed, directed, and performed a play of their own, under the theme of That Thing We Forgot. From Pages of Liberation to Unchipped, stories of the rediscovery of a long forgotten human invention were brought to life through the powerful storytelling and dance of all students from Year 5 to Year 11. In the end, Boyne House prevailed with their play The Forgotten Channel, an emotional story about the rediscovery of television and human connection.

In 2025, the Drama Program continued to inspire students, with over 50 participating in Fintona’s 2025 School Play, Treasure Island. A thrilling story about a young girl who finds herself swept away into a dangerous world of treasure and pirates.

Whether as actors, backstage managers, or a part of the technical crew, students worked tirelessly every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon to bring the play to life. Special thanks to Ms Bronwyn Bye, Ms Sienna Thomas (Class of 2024), Mr John Batterham, Ms Dana Riley, Mr Daniel Bowen, Mr Luke Gaynor and all the staff who helped make Treasure Island a truly memorable experience.

The VCE Theatre ensemble performance Le Mariage Forcé also evoked laughs and inspired younger students with their comedic performance, while the trips to Melbourne’s professional theatres to see plays such as Jekyll & Hyde, Pride and Prejudice, and Trophy Boys allowed students to broaden their knowledge of drama and theatre.

2025 Drama was another year of unforgettable performances. It has been an amazing journey for me as Drama Captain, and everyone involved in drama should be incredibly proud of themselves for their passion and commitment.

SPORT

SPORT CO-ORDINATOR: Iain Rowe

Sporting successes, record numbers of participation and a love of competition were evident across the many opportunities available to our students. From House events, GSV weekly sport and carnival days, triathlon, rowing, the Fintona Netball Program and our ever-growing Snow Sports team, there is always something for students to discover and do what they do well. 2025 was a significant year for GSV, celebrating 25 years of providing girls with the opportunity to play competitive sports and facilitate lifelong experiences outside the classroom.

House Swimming was the first event of 2025 and House Athletics the last event for Term 1. GSV events started with 25

students competing in this year’s triathlon, with our Senior team achieving 1st place; an amazing achievement. Tennis, volleyball and softball were the GSV sports for Term 1. A highlight was our champion Senior Softball team taking out the year’s competition.

As autumn approached, so did House Cross Country. It was excellent to see so many students involved and the true sense of House spirit on full display. Term 2 gave students the opportunity to play Senior AFL, hockey and netball, which they all enjoyed. The Senior and Junior Hockey teams, and one of our four Junior Netball teams made finals, which was a fantastic achievement for all involved.

In winter, soccer and badminton were the sports chosen by 130 students for Term 3. Fintona entered 12 badminton teams, highlighting the school’s depth and interest in this sport. Clarke House dominated and were the winners of the House Cup which was announced at Valedictory. Term 4 allowed our students to show off their cricket and basketball skills, as well as the House Netball and the Summer Sports Carnival.

2025 was a fantastic year. The Sport and PE Faculty are very proud of the efforts displayed by all Fintonians. A big thank you to our Year 12 students who represented Fintona with ferocity and passion over their sporting journey.

SPORT CAPTAIN

Nicola Skliris

Since Year 5, sport has played a huge role in shaping my time at Fintona. From playing new sports, to making incredible friends and celebrating wins together, sport at Fintona has given me some of my best memories. Being Sport Captain has been incredibly rewarding, as I have had the chance to not only compete, but also to lead, encourage others, and share my passion for sport.

In Term 1, the year began with the triathlon, followed by the swimming and diving carnivals, which were both memorable and highly competitive. Weekly sport also commenced, with tennis and softball proving to be popular. The Senior Softball team finished strongly, winning their finals. For many of the Year 12 students, this win was especially meaningful, as it marked their final softball game together after playing very competitively since Year 7.

In Term 2, the GSV Cross Country Carnival saw students braving the cold and showing resilience. Weekly sport was especially busy, with netball, hockey, and football. Both Junior Netball and Hockey teams reached finals, and a special mention for the Senior Hockey team who won their final. Football was another standout, with Friday nights becoming a highlight of the year. The girls proudly wore the blue and gold, showing great determination and celebrating their wins with the Fintona chant.

Term 3 featured the GSV Athletics Carnival, where strong winds and cold conditions tested students, yet the energy and spirit of the day made it a highlight of the year. Weekly sport included soccer and badminton, with students demonstrating commitment and teamwork across the season.

In Term 4, cricket and basketball were the two featured sports, bringing plenty of enthusiasm and excitement. Beyond weekly sports and the carnivals, individual achievements have also been something to celebrate, with girls making it to finals night for swimming and athletics. Girls were also selected for the GSV team in tennis, soccer, cross country and hockey.

What has stood out most this year is the incredible enthusiasm, commitment, and passion that Fintona girls bring to every sport. Serving as Sports Captain has been an honour, allowing me to witness the teamwork, pride, and spirit that makes Fintona sport so special.

ART

ART

LEARNING

LEADER: Brit Biviano

From the Early Learning Centre to VCE, the 2025 year was filled with art expression and pursuit. All students took advantage of everything the Art curriculum has to offer. Our facilities enhance the art experience for our students and indeed the whole Fintona community.

Students are able to delve into a number of mediums and techniques including digital illustration, sculpture, film and collage, painting, drawing and photography. With the expert guidance of our teachers, students have produced some very impressive and exhibition worthy works through considered and personal exploration, research, and conceptual development.

We were proud to be able to showcase our students’ talents with the ELC to Senior Art and Design Exhibition held very early in Term 4, the VCE Art and Design Show with a culmination of our VCE students’ year of dedicated work on display, followed by the delightful ELC exhibition, Playing with Possibility. At the end of the year, our Fashion Runway event was popular, with students working with textiles and fashion design creating and modelling their work.

We congratulate all our students, most particularly the Class of 2025, for their art accomplishments and we hope that they continue to expand their art practice and their creative drive.

ART CAPTAIN

Zindzi Clayford

In 2025, Fintona students showcased immense creativity across all year levels in Art and Design. From carefully crafted clay flowers in Year 5 and fabric design in Year 2, to innovative perspex lamps in Year 9 Design and experimental bioplastics, students embraced both tradition and innovation.

Excursions enriched the learning experience, offering opportunities to connect with art and design beyond the classroom. Year 9 Art students explored the city of Melbourne, Years 5 and 6 visited the NGV to engage with the French Impressionists, while Year 12 students attended Top Arts and explored contemporary practice at ACCA.

The year reflected the breadth of student inquiry, from foundational skills in the early years to conceptual investigations at VCE level, all underscoring the creativity of the Fintona community.

Art Club began with a quilt collaboration led by Fintona’s Library Captain, with contributions from more than 32 students. Later, students created dolls inspired by artist Mirka Mora, a project that built connections between younger students who enjoyed the Monday sessions.

The year concluded with a focus on watercolour, inspired by this year’s Artist in Residence, Fiona McMonagle. Each project highlighted the strong sense of community and enthusiasm for the visual arts at Fintona. Students also celebrated their achievements through the annual ELC–VCE Art and Design Show, the Fintona Runway, and the VCE Art Exhibition.

None of these projects would have been possible without the dedication of the Art Faculty. Thank you for encouraging students to achieve their best and for bringing about another vibrant and successful year of Art and Design at Fintona.

FINTONA NETBALL CLUB

HEAD COACH: Ness Alexandra

Founded in 2013, the Fintona Netball Club began with two teams entered in the Boroondara Netball Association (BNA). The Club has grown to thirteen teams which involve students from Year 3 to Open age. The Club values include commitment, resilience, participation, fair play and team spirit.

Fintona Netball participates in two seasons annually at BNA, Winter Season and the Spring Fling. The 2025 Winter Season ran over Term 2 and Term 3. The Year 3 and Year 4 teams played on Friday afternoons and Year 5 to Open age played on Saturdays. The Open age team comprised of ex-students and current coaches and made the finals, along with the Year 9 team. Year 5 and Year 6 played a

modified finals series, playing off against a team next on the ladder. Year 3 and Year 4 played a Round-robin on their final day of the season.

Spring Fling 2025 had ten teams participating, with new students to netball and opportunities for all students to play different positions. A short seven-week season to run and laugh while playing netball.

A new pilot program called Next Step was trialed in Term 3. Twenty students were selected from Year 5 to Year 7 to participate in an extra training session per week that focused on mastering specialist skills and developing greater strategy and tactical thinking. A review of the program in Term

4 has seen improved skills in the netballers and plans for it to run again in 2026.

Every year, Fintona has students from Year 7 onwards who umpire netball games, and volunteer students from Year 9 to Year 11 can coach, with supervision by the Head Coach. This is a great leadership opportunity for the senior students and helps develop their coaching skills along the way.

At the end of the season, Fintona Netball held a Presentation Night where all teams were invited to celebrate the commitment and achievements of individuals. 2025 was a wonderful year of netball.

ROWING

Priyanka De Silva & Jessica Leung

Once again, Finona’s Rowing Squad had another season for the books. The 2024/2025 season was filled with memories, hard work, and countless achievements. Rowing is widely considered one of the most physically demanding sports and requires a certain type of person who possesses discipline, strength, resilience, and 100% commitment. It is a challenge that every squad member rose to, and we are so proud of every rower and cox who gave their all over nine months of training.

This season’s motto was That Much More, inspired by Billy Mills who won the 10,000-metre race in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Throughout the season, every crew lived up to this motto, pushing that extra 10%

more in x-training sessions, on water training and regattas. Every rower showed incredible resilience when overcoming the challenges that came their way, supporting each other to collectively achieve a goal greater than themselves. A particular highlight was the numerous times different crews cheered for each other when rowing past, underscoring the camaraderie between all members of the squad.

Whilst the squad had many highlights within countless training sessions, some incredible results were achieved in Junior State Championships and Head of School Girls Regatta. The Inter double of Chloe McNally and Anagi Nihalsingha achieved a bronze medal at Junior State Championships and a

silver medal at Head of School Girls, while our Senior quad qualified for their A final at Head of School Girls which is a difficult task. These results are a testament to the girls’ hard work but also the support of every rower in our small but powerful squad.

We would like to extend a massive thank you to all the coaches whose talent and dedication allowed every crew to achieve their goals both on and off the water, and our parents whose continuous support was greatly appreciated by every member of the squad. We wish everyone the best of the luck for future seasons and have no doubt the Fintona Rowing Squad will continue to achieve amazing things!

THE FORMAL

The Fintonian Committee

The annual Year 11 and Year 12 Formal is eagerly anticipated every year. As with any large event there is a team of people behind the scenes who work towards making the occasion one to remember and we thank everyone involved for their efforts and enthusiasm.

The Formal is about being together, having fun and celebrating our VCE years and for the Year 12 students, their final year at Fintona. It is also about the food, conversations, music and dancing with just a little bit of fashion to top it all off.

For Year 11 and Year 12 students this special event is a highlight. and we are fortunate that we are able to leave school early to prepare and ensure we are feeling and looking our best.

The 2025 Formal at the San Remo Ballroom was a great success, and everyone who attended had a wonderful time. It was, without question, a night to remember.

COMMUNITY SERVICE CAPTAIN

Olivia Carletti

The privilege of being Community Service Captain this year has extended far beyond a position of leadership - it was an opportunity to help shape a culture of care at Fintona. To me, this role meant more than organising events; it has been about creating connections, strengthening our school community, and directing our collective energy towards causes that make a difference in the wider world.

One of the most significant developments this year was the establishment of Fintona’s first Community Service Team. This initiative united students from across year levels, providing them with opportunities to engage meaningfully in service. It strengthened our inner community by giving students a sense

of shared purpose, while also ensuring that our contributions reached well beyond the school gates. By building this structure, we embedded service as something that unites Fintona and extends our care outward.

Across the year, the team supported a range of initiatives, and two flagship events stood out. The first was Fintona’s inaugural Walk-a-thon, held in support of the Royal Children’s Hospital. This event was especially significant as we stood behind one of our own families, contributing to their fundraising for the Run for the Kids. It was a powerful example of our school rallying together in solidarity, while benefiting an institution that touches countless lives across Victoria.

The second major initiative was Fintona’s Biggest Morning Tea for the Cancer Council which incorporated one of our most successful bake sales. Through the generosity and dedication of students and staff, we raised approximately $3,000. This achievement highlighted how, by working together, our school could support national organisations at the forefront of vital health research, while also strengthening bonds within our own community.

As I leave Fintona, I am proud of what we have built together, and I know the School will continue to grow its spirit of service in the years ahead.

DEBATING CAPTAIN

Scarlett Yang

2025 was a rewarding one for Debating at Fintona. From Monday night competitions to lunchtime preparation sessions, our debaters showed remarkable commitment and growth. Across both DAV and JSP Debating, students brought confidence and sophisticated argument construction to each round. Many teams came close to the playoffs, with one of our Year 10 teams making it through, a well-earned result after weeks of preparation and practice.

Debating Club played a big role in our success, giving students a space to refine arguments, share feedback, and build confidence under the guidance of mentors. We also held extra

sessions for new debaters, learning the basics of debating and developing their skills. It was great to see them improve, step up, and compete strongly as the season went on.

We concluded the year with House Debating, one of the most anticipated debating events of the year. There was fierce competition with every House giving their all, in front of enthusiastic audiences of the school. From Year 5 students delivering their first speeches to Senior students presenting polished arguments, it was amazing to see how much talent and teamwork came through from everyone who gave debating a go.

As Debating Captain, I have loved watching the participants confidence grow throughout the season both in competitions and the way people supported each other and took pride in representing Fintona. The participation and enthusiasm from everyone made debating one of the most exciting and inclusive parts of school life at Fintona and it has been a privilege to be the Captain in my final year.

CAMPS

CAMPS CO-ORDINATOR: Caitlin

Rosewarne

Fintona’s Year 5 to Year 10 outdoor education camps provide students with valuable opportunities to step outside their comfort zones, build resilience, and develop independence. Through challenges and experiences, they strengthen teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills while fostering confidence and adaptability. The camps also encourage meaningful connections with peers, teachers, and the natural environment, thus promoting personal growth and wellbeing.

Year 11 and Year 12 Camps provide a few days at the start of each year, for VCE students to bond and enjoy time together before commencing their academic year. Camp experiences are important for relaxation, sharing time together, and making memories.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Camp Coonawarra

The Year 5 students embarked on their first outdoor education camp at Camp Coonawarra where they learnt new skills such as archery, raft making and hut building. The highlight of the camp was the Flying Fox where students zipped over 200 metres across Coonawarra Lake. Students also tackled the high and low ropes courses which challenged both balance and coordination. Overall, the camp provided a memorable introduction to Outdoor Education at Fintona.

Sovereign Hill

Going back in time at Sovereign Hill was a wonderful experience for Year 5 students. They panned for gold and went on two underground mine tours. They learnt how miners extracted gold out of quartz rock and were able to experience role play as bankers, troopers and miners. The Eureka Museum was popular as was the lolly shop, and students were able to learn many facts about the Eureka Stockade and how life was back in the gold rush. The Year 5 students thoroughly enjoyed their time away.

Canberra

Every year, Year 6 students are given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy with a trip to Canberra enriching their learning. The trip incorporated a visit to the National Electoral Centre, Old Parliament House, Questacon, a mock House of Representatives experience, the War Memorial,

the High Court, the Australian Institute of Sport, National Capital Authority, the National Film & Sound Archive, Mount Ainslie and the Mint. There were many fun and interactive activities interspersed during the trip and the students thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Waratah Bay

Students in Year 6 enjoyed learning new surfing skills at the Waratah Beach Camp, where they developed their knowledge of the ocean and currents and their confidence in the water. In addition to this, students participated in initiative activities, rock climbing and the ever-popular thrill of the Flying Fox. Students gained an understanding and appreciation for the location environment on a guided beach walk and rock pool exploration.

Outdoor Ed Day

Year 7 students participated in an Outdoor Education Day where they were introduced to the skills of canoeing, orienteering and mountain bike riding. These skills help students build confidence and teamwork in a well-supported outdoor setting. Students gain an understanding of water safety through canoeing, as they develop their navigation and problemsolving skills throughout the orienteering aspect of the day. These are foundational and practical skills that aim to prepare students for future outdoor education camps.

Central Australia

The trip to Central Australia for Year 7 students has been a highlight for many years, and an opportunity to not only see magnificent scenery, like Uluru, but to experience outdoor challenges and learn more about First Nations people. With hiking and star studded night skies, this camp is a learning curve for students and an enriching experience that fosters friendship and personal growth.

Toolangi

Embarking on their first combination journey and cabin camp, Year 8 students excitedly took part in activities specially designed to boost their teamwork and problem-solving abilities, a highlight was setting up their own tarps and spending a survival night sleeping under the stars, where they cooked their own meals. In addition to these activities, students also enjoyed hiking, which allowed them to explore nature, build endurance, and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors in a new environment.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Great Ocean Road Walk

The Year 9 students took part in their first journey-based camp, hiking to multiple campsites along the stunning Great Ocean Road Walk. Building on skills developed in previous outdoor education camps, they carried all their own equipment, including water, food, and sleeping gear, fostering independence and responsibility. Throughout the hike, students embraced new challenges and developed their skills in both water safety and surfing techniques. This experience allowed them to connect deeply with nature. The camp was a memorable opportunity to grow confidence, resilience, and a love for the outdoors in a coastal environment.

Northern Grampians

Year 10 students enjoyed their final Outdoor Education camp at Fintona, where they took part in a journey-based camp, hiking to multiple campsites in the Northern Grampians. Along the way, they challenged themselves by developing new skills in abseiling and rock climbing, gaining confidence and overcoming challenges. The camp placed a strong emphasis on leadership, encouraging students to take initiative, support one another, and make decisions as a group. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, students embraced the challenges of the camp, creating lasting memories and valuable lessons for future adventures.

Queenscliff

Our Year 11 students were transported to Camp Wyuna in Queenscliff for a few days of bonding, relaxation and having some fun before starting their academic year. The students enjoyed this special time together which was a combination of organised activities and freedom.

University of Melbourne

The Class of 2025 kick started their final year of secondary schooling at The University of Melbourne, staying at St Hilda’s College in Parkville. There were some fun challenges in the CBD, a relaxation class and the Commencement Dinner. The students enjoyed this time spent together, before heading back to school to start their Year 12 studies.

Thank you to all the staff who organised, facilitated and supervised the variety of camps we offer students. Your support and efforts enhance the overall camp experience for the students and build trust and connection.

VALEDICTORY

VALEDICTORIAN SPEECH: Hannah Tjangdjaja

When I discovered I would be Valedictorian, I wondered how I could possibly encapsulate the true essence of the class of 2025, in a six-minute speech? Then I started to list all the strange things that have happened over the years, and the words started coming naturally. So, I might start by saying thank you to the class of 2025 for being so quirky and for giving me great content for this speech.

In Year 7 History we were treated with a live, Mongolian throat singing performance by Mr Thorpe and inspired #Thorpe Talks. We survived online learning, where somehow our internet and cameras were always dodgy, including when someone very cleverly unmuted themselves to say ‘my mic isn’t working’.

In Year 8 Geography Steph brought in a bottle of water ‘from the Yarra river’ which looked suspiciously like it was from the lake by her farm - I guess we’ll never know. Actually, Year 8 Geography was quite eventful. During our field trip to the Mornington Peninsula, Ranzi, desperately trying to get the perfect angle of the Port Phillip Bay sandbags, promptly dropped her iPhone into the ocean, never to be seen again.

On Year 9 camp, we survived Zynta, the camp leader, who rationed our food, serving us a generous two tablespoons of museli and half a pikelet for breakfast before we hiked 10 kilometres with packs. Year 10 and Year 11 flew by in a blur of friendship, laughter, and of course, studying. Before we knew it, we were in Year 12.

2025 has been so, so incredibly hard, and memorable, all at the same time. I’m pretty sure our crash out tally doesn’t have space for any more marks. Occasionally, studying for English SACs made me want to personally recreate that scene in The Memory Police (a novel by Yoko Ogawa) where the books are being thrown into a raging fire. But there will be a lot that I will miss about Year 12.

I will miss the little, consistent things, like how you always knew when there was General Maths in Period 3 because the common room was empty at 10 :55 on the dot. How every time you walked into the common room you could see Liv’s ever-growing family of half-drunk iced coffees. How you always knew when Nina and Jess had a spare because they

were playing Minecraft or calling each other SOR (which, for any mature people, stands for the eloquent ‘Skibidi Ohio Rizzler’).

I will miss the way that we celebrated each other. How every time Ms Tan mentioned that a mystery person had won a prize in the Australian Mathematics Competition, our year level would immediately turn to Laura with a devilish grin. How Christelle single-handedly (both literally and figuratively) conducted an orchestra while playing the piano. How we celebrated sporting achievements - I never could see Phoebe during cross country because she was too busy coming first, and I didn’t know mermaids existed until I watched Farida ‘fish’ Taha at House swimming.

I will miss the kindness and compassion I witnessed every day. How after every single traumatic Methods SAC, words of comfort acted as bandages which covered the wounds inflicted by diabolical maths questions. I will miss how Criselle would suffocate anyone going through a hard time with a hug. Simple acts of empathy which fuelled each other, simple, yet overwhelmingly powerful acts of empathy which filled our empty tanks that ran on monster energy drinks.

Through all these culminations of little experiences, and daily interactions, our lives have become intertwined with one another in a way that can’t be undone. Each day we showed up to school, we’ve taken tiny fragments of

the people surrounding us. We’ve gradually become a beautiful mosaic, comprised of different pieces of different people, slowly reshaping the architecture of our minds. You’ll notice it in the way you speak, the way you act, the way you care. You’ll use a bad joke that you’ve heard somewhere before and realise your laugh sounds like your friends, who sound like Gargamel, and you’ll treat others with the kindness you’ve been gifted before. It’s the type of connection that can’t be severed even with time or physical distance. We will never be complete strangers to each other. Not even when our ‘heads are growing grey’ or we are ‘far and far away’.

Thank you, to our Tutor teachers, Ms Bye, Madame Mathot, Ms Ahlawat and Ms Leeton. They have dealt with us first thing on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, and have been our very own life coaches, which is probably the toughest job out there. Over the years they have moulded us as people, and they have had a bigger, more lasting impact on our lives than they could ever imagine.

On behalf of my cohort, I extend this thank you to all our teachers, who have not just taught us; but have been our guidance counsellors, our cheerleaders, and our very own standup comedians. After spending all holidays correcting our illegible practice exams, I’m sure we all have a newfound appreciation for all the marking they do. Our teachers have a concerning level of grace they direct towards us which we won’t find anywhere else, and honestly, they will never get paid enough to deal with our side eyes, complaints, and crash outs, and yet, they still do. 2025 has been hard and gruelling but because of them, it has been significantly less hard and gruelling.

Thank you to our Principal, Ms Falloon, and Deputy Principal, Mrs McKinnon, for their leadership of the school and this opportunity to share our end-of-year celebrations with the rest of the school. We’ve been able to create this special memory which we will cherish in our hearts for years to come.

Of course, we thank the Head of Senior School, Ms Allen for being a source of support, comfort, reassurance, and always having her door open to us. We know these events

would not be possible without you and we are truly grateful for all that you’ve done for us.

Thank you to our parents, for supporting us through the highs and many lows that are Year 12. Thank you for driving us or trying to teach us how to drive, for feeding us something other than whatever junk food is lying around the common room, for comforting us and making sure we touch grass every once in a while.

But most of all, thank you Class of 2025. You have made this period of our lives so, so special. I will cry a little when I hear Slipping Through My Fingers on my Spotify playlist. My heart will sink a little when I start talking about Year 12 using words like ‘was’ instead of ‘is’. I will feel a twinge of nostalgia every time I look through my camera roll, even if I have KFC or banh mi stuck in my teeth. Being sentimental is a real privilege because it means we created moments worth missing. And right now, I’m filled with mixed emotions and contradictions. I love that I hate the idea of leaving.

But eventually we will leave. Whether we’re taking a gap year, going to uni, or joining the labour force right away, we will live in a way that is unapologetically ourselves, as we continue to grow and discover who we are in the world. We will always retain a part of each other in whatever we do. And as we venture into a world full of possibilities, new memories will be created and live alongside the ones we’ve formed during our school years.

But for now, even though time is slipping through our fingers, it’s time to wave goodbye to this chapter of our lives, with a hopeful smile.

CLASS OF 2025

I always knew this day would come. We’d be standing one by one. With our future in our hands. So many dreams, so many plans. I always knew after all these years. There’d be laughter, there’d be tears. But never thought I’d walk away. With so much joy, but so much pain. And it’s so hard to say goodbye.

But yesterday’s gone. We gotta keep moving on. I’m so thankful for the moments. So glad I got to know you. The times that we had. I’ll keep like a photograph. And hold you in my heart forever. I’ll always remember you.

Another chapter in the book. Can’t go back, but you can look. And there we are on every page. Memories I’ll always save. Up ahead on the open doors. Who knows what we’re heading towards? I wish you love, I wish you luck. For you, the world just opens up. But it’s so hard to say goodbye.

Every day that we had. All the good, all the bad. I’ll keep ‘em here inside. All the times that we shared. Every place, everywhere. You touched my life. Yeah, one day, we’ll look back. We’ll smile and we’ll laugh. But right now, we just cry. Cause it’s so hard to say goodbye.

I’ll Always Remember You (Hannah Montana, 2010)

Signing Out

YEAR 12 VALETE

Anne Alexandropoulos 2024

Sophie Ang 2011

Miyou Biondo 2020

Zoe Brown 2011

Olivia Carletti 2018

Criselle Cayetano 2018

Manni Chen 2020

Anna Chen-Tilley 2011

Zindzi Clayford 2023

Phoebe Creek 2020

Priyanka De Silva 2018

Adrija Dutta 2023

Jiaxin (Jessica) Gong 2019

Victoria (Tori) Gonsalves 2011

Maya Goonewardene 2023

Lihan Guo 2025

Katherine Hinh 2020

Annie Holland 2011

Ying Si (Cecilia) Huo 2020

Stephanie Jenkins 2010

Dora Ke 2023

Marcella Kedzierski 2011

Cleo Kenos 2020

Sylvia (Sylvie) Kerr-Smith 2023

Christelle Kong 2019

Emma Lavery 2023

Alisha Chi-Kei Lee 2018

Xin Ye (Nina) Lei 2020

Jessica Leung 2019

Ranzi Lin 2020

Aleisha Malic 2018

Molly McKenzie 2020

Remi Moussa 2024

Xiangyue (Laura) Nan 2018

Josephine Nguyen 2018

Shari Pieris 2020

Alexandra (Sasha) Radze 2020

Jiayi (Jessica) Shang 2023

Khisha Sivajayaprakash 2020

Nicola Skliris 2018

Anne-Marie Sonbol 2022

Anbing Sun 2024

Farida Taha 2022

Hannah Tjangdjaja 2018

Haiden Toh 2020

Isabella (Issi) Weedon 2013

Xianghe (Ivanka) Wu 2023

Xiangning (Miuccia) Wu 2023

Jiayun (Aimee) Xu 2023

Fan (Scarlett) Yang 2023

Sumsum (Diya) Zheng 2020

THE FINTONIAN COMMITTEE

Shirley Li, Lulu Liu, Alessia McCormack, Mahlia Ratnam, Chloe Saleh & Helene Zeng

Every student at Fintona is following a path. Taking steps forward, setting goals and looking ahead towards a bright future, with many adventures along the way.

There are different paths to travel in life, and our secondary schooling is just one that we will traverse. Throughout our primary and secondary years there have been many intersecting pathways for us to explore.

STAFF VALETE

Elli Burdan

The paths we walk will vary depending on the choices we make; our aspirations, and the effort we put in. We will make detours; both deliberate and accidental and change direction due to happenstance or pure serendipity, but we will always find our way to where we need and want to be.

A path is a positive motif that is relevant to education, to our life experiences and our Fintona experience. The pages of this yearbook, represent the many paths undertaken by students throughout the 2025 year. The reports, quotes, reflections, opinions, and photographs are a series of vignettes, and we hope that you have enjoyed walking through the year, that was, with us.

Science at Fintona has been enhanced and built upon by the calibre of our Science Faculty and Elli Burdan has been a teacher who has made a significant contribution to science education. Over the six years Elli was at the School, she generously imparted her wealth of experience and knowledge. She has been Daily Organiser, Timetabler, Science & Technology Learning Leader, a keen Boyne House teacher, and has truly inspired our girls with her own love of technology and science, making meaningful connections and giving students hands-on experience and empowering their learning. Elli will be greatly missed, as she moves on to a new role at Scotch College. We wish her every happiness and success in all she undertakes in the future.

Rachel Carpenter

Rachel, in her role of Year 6 Teacher, brought dedication to her classroom every day for the five and a half years she was with us. An abundance of students benefited from her enthusiasm, guidance and love of teaching. Rachel left Fintona at the end of Term 2 to take up a new and exciting position with the Korean International School. We wish Rachel every success as she broadens her career horizons and her life experiences. We thank her for all that she brought to her role and to Fintona more broadly.

Tory Cortes

School Counsellors hold a special role in education and Tory has been an incredible support to our students over the past three years. In a world full of change, our students from time to time need guidance, as do our parents. Tory has played a pivotal role in assisting students and families through difficult times, and the importance of her work cannot be underestimated. Tory has also provided advice to the Leadership Team and staff as we consider and are committed to positive thinking and the health and wellbeing of our students and colleagues. We thank Tory for her support of our students and wish her all the very best for the future.

Catherine Farrar

Catherine was an ELC Co-Educator at Fintona for nearly four years. Her assistance and commitment to the children in her care has been impeccable and she has been a valued colleague and community member. Catherine left the role early in 2025, to pursue her teaching career and further develop her knowledge. We thank her for all she brought to the ELC and wish her every success in the future.

Timmee Grinham

Timmee has been a stalwart in the Commerce Faculty, and after nine years of teaching at Fintona, is moving on to some new projects. Timmee’s students have benefited from her experience, knowledge and dedication. Her collegiality and her representation of staff over many years has been much appreciated. She has supported many school events, and fund raisers, and has also been a keen participant in Cabaret Night and Shakespeare Day. Timmee’s further involvement in the education sector, ie through VCTA and beyond with the RBA, is evidence of her fine skillset, which has assisted educators generally, schools and the wider community. We know she is well positioned to pursue anything she wishes now and into the future. We thank her for her contribution and wish her well.

Ann Hawker

Ann Hawker was a long serving and highly regarded teacher of English and History, before she retired from teaching, and took up the position of School Archivist, which was a role that supported her interest in history, and her unrivalled knowledge of Fintona. Ann’s teaching career at Fintona began nearly 48 years ago, and she has taught hundreds of students across decades. Her students have enjoyed their learning and Ann’s direction, and her ability to engage them and hold their attention is legendary. Her knowledge, collegiality, sharp wit and good humour will be very much missed. Ann left Fintona at the end of Term 3 and will continue to be involved in her many interests and the many organisations she supports. We thank her for all she has brought to the school, and for the highly significant contribution she has made to girls’ education, as the longest serving staff member of Fintona in the history of the School.

Aurassi Pougault

As a Primary French Teacher, Aurassi devoted almost eight years to fostering an appreciation and understanding of the French language and culture among our Primary students. Joining Fintona directly from university, she quickly established herself as a dedicated and capable educator who has made a significant contribution to the Languages program. Aurassi’s teaching approach has enabled students to develop both confidence and competence in their language skills. She has enriched students’ learning and inspired genuine enthusiasm for the study of French. In addition to her work with students, Aurassi was a valued colleague. Her contribution to the academic and cultural life of the Junior Campus has been greatly appreciated.

Richard Sallows

As Risk & Compliance Manager, Richard has assisted the Leadership Team update and strengthen the school’s policies and procedures in line with best practice and changing legislation. His work over the last two and a half years has been greatly appreciated. Richard’s calm and gracious manner and his collegiality have been highly valued and we have no doubt that Richard will have many activities and pursuits that will enable him to utilise his skillset and knowledge into the future. We wish him well and thank him for all his has brought to the role.

Lingxia Sun

It has been a delight to have Ling assisting in the Early Learning Centre over the past two years. She brought to her role a genuine love of early learning and a deep care for children, qualities that were evident in her daily interactions and the strong connections she built within the Fintona community. Due to family commitments, Ling concluded her time at Fintona at the end of Term 2. We sincerely thank her for the dedication and support she provided during her time with us and wish her every success in her future endeavours.

Top Row: Dimple Gulati, Axelle Mathot, Michelle Maglitto, Samantha Rozek, Nikki Fowkes, Andrew Stringer, Denise Childs, Helen Darrer, Kate Ruzicka, Aoife Howard, Belinda King, Anna Crozier, Frances Hyde, Winter Steinhart, Ben Christensen, Pamela Young, Jack Harvey, Victoria Cortes

4th Row: Aarti Ram, Catherine Hainstock, Jodie Gamble, Dana Riley, Kim Ubert, Philippa Rehe, Meaghan Walker, Olivia Fogarty, Ruby Deacon, Belinda Leeton, Bryndyll Loughrey, Karen Winderlich, Angela Raven, Esther Tan, Tamar Jaquiery, Charmian Harris, Yoko Kirkman

3rd Row: Meredith Harris, Lara Dresser, Sarah Bell, Tania Christiansen, Ashleigh Andrew, Emily Erwin, Kate Brooke, Jane Moyle, Carla Gardam, Amy Miers, Sally Martin, Sharmaine Pritchard, Caitlin Rosewarne, Brittany Creek, Tiffany Zhou

2nd Row: Liz Bettiol, Elli Burdan, Luke Breen, Iain Rowe, David Joyce, Fabrizio Biviano, Elliot Strand, Luke Gaynor, Cameron Pinner, Paul Kelly, Sue Donaghey, Rachel Carpenter, Mandy Fielding, Wishodha Kuruppuachchi

1st Row: Chris Williams, Alex Harrison, Mikoto Delaney, Terese Francis, James Sach, Michelle Price, Ruth McKinnon, Rachael Falloon, Christine Dennis, Claire Allen, Justine Hamilton, Jackie Dimattina, James Burdan, Brett Bates, Julia Rohde

Absent: Jyoti Ahlawat, Ness Alexandra, Zoe Alexiades, Tanya Bail, John Batterham, Yoko Berthelsen, Peter Bolger, Kate Broadley, Bronwyn Bye, Tania Cherubin, Kevin Christofelsz, Kym Dancey, Felicity Fritsch, Caterina Garwoli, Timmee Grinham, Niroshini Gunasekera, Adeline Han, Suzie Hannebery, Sharon Hargreaves, Ann Hawker, Greg Horner, Alexander Howroyd, Jeremy Johansson, Lucy Laussen, Sheryl Manassa, Fairlie Marsland, Jarrod McCluskey, Adele McIntosh, Sarah McNee, Kate McPhee, Andrea Mina, Aurassi Pougault, Lina Pranckunas, Steve Ramage, Sharne Rees, Megan Reeve, Kate Rohde, Susanne Rowland, Richard Sallows, Peter Sampsonidis, Andrew Saragossi, Sarah Searle, Lingxia Sun, Laura Tcheupdjian, Carmen Timms, Catherine Turnbull, Daniel Waddingham, Meaghan Walker, Gina Wardlaw, John Weymouth

STAFF QUALIFICATIONS

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Rachael Falloon BSc GradDipEd MOrgLead CME

Ruth McKinnon BSc(Hons) GDip Ed MEd

Claire Allen BA EngLit(Hons) Post GradCertEd ProfCertAd.Counsel MLship

Justine Hamilton BTeach Med

Jackie Dimattina BEd DipEarlyChilEd

James Sach BA GradDipTeach GradCertAd.Health MEdLship

Christine Dennis BEcon BComm

Michelle Price BComm(Hons)

ACADEMIC AND GENERAL STAFF

Jyoti Ahlawat BSc MSc BEd

Ness Alexandra

Zoe Alexiades BCommDesign

Ashleigh Andrew

Tanya Bail BMus(Hons) MA(MusPerfVoice) AMusA(Voice)

Brett Bates CertBuild&Const CertIIInfoTech CertIVInfoTech

John Batterham BEd MA(ArtsMgmt)

Sarah Bell BAppSci DipEd MEd(L’ship)

Yoko Berthelsen DipAm&EngLit

Liz Bettiol

Brit Biviano BA(Vis) BTeach MFA

Peter Bolger DipBusAcct

Luke Breen ISC2 (CertCybSec)

Kate Broadley BA BSc GradDipEd Med CradCertCareerDev&Counsel

Kate Brooke BA BSc DipEd

Elli Burdan BSc BEd GradCertAppFin DipFinPlan CertIVTrain&Assess

James Burdan DipNetwork CertSoftDev MCSA

Bronwyn Bye BEd MLead&ManageEd

Tania Cherubin BComm GradCertAppFin CertIVHR

Denise Childs BBus(Secretarial)

Ben Christensen BMusic GradDipEd(Sec)

Tania Christiansen CertIVFinServ BAppSci BEd

Kevin Christofelsz BAppChem MTeach(Sec)

Tory Cortes BSc MEd MAppPosPsych

Caterina Garwoli GradDipEd

Emma Craig BSocSc PGradBTeach

Brittany Creek BA BEd

Anna Crozier BEarlChildStud

Kym Dancey BA(Econ)(Hons) MTeach(Prim) PostGCertEd(IB)

Helen Darrer CertIIIChildServ

Mikoto Delaney BALote GradDipEd

Suzanne Donaghey DipChildServ

Lara Dresser BAppSci BEd

Emily Erwin BA French,Spanish&Journ DipEd(Sec)

Catherine Farrar CertIIIChildServ DipChilServ BEarlyChilEd

Mandy Fielding DipEd DipMgmt

Nikki Fowkes BA GradDipE GradCertRE

Terese Francis BBus DipTESOL GradDipEd (EarlyChild)

Felicity Fritsch BECS DipEd(Primary) BE(Hons)

Jodie Gamble BEd

Carla Gardam BComm BTeach

Caterina Garwoli GradDipEd (Secondary)

Luke Gaynor CertIIIGenConst

Timmee Grinham BEcon(Hons) Grad DipEd CELTA

Dimple Gulati BA DipEarlyChild&Care

Niroshini Gunasekera BA M1CompLit MIITranslStudies PhDTranslStudies

Catherine Hainstock BEd (SpecEdPrim) MEd(TeachLib)

Sharon Hargreaves AssocDipBus CertIVLibArts CertIIIHort

Adeline Han BMusPerf DipEd A.Mus.A(Piano)

Suzanne Hannebery BSc DipEd GradCertCareerDevPrac

Charmian Harris BEd(EarlyChild)

Meredith Harris BTeach BEd MEd(SpecEd)

Alex Harrison BHealth&PE

Jack Harvey BA(Journalism)

Ann Hawker BA Grad DipEd Admin TPTC

Greg Horner

Alex Howroyd Assoc.Degree Music

Frances Hyde BEd(EarlChild) DipSocSci(ChildStudies)

Tara Kapoor BA BMediaArt MCounselling

Paul Kelly BSci GradDipEd(Maths&Science)

Belinda Kennedy BFineArts DipHort

Belinda King

Yoko Kirkman BA(Hons) DipEd

Lucy Laussen BA

Jeremy Johansson CA

Belinda Leeton BAGeo GradCertEd CertIVWplaceT&A

Bryndyll Loughrey BA BEd

Michelle Maglitto BA GradDipEd MEd CertIVTrain&Assess CELTA

Sheryl Manassa BSc DipEd

Fairlie Marsland BLaw SolicitorEng&Wales MTeach(Sec)

Sally Martin

Axelle Mathot BEngCiv MModLang CAPES BTheo(Paris)

Jarrod McCluskey DipMus(PerfJazz/Pop) BAMus

Adele McIntosh BBus (SportMgt)

Sarah McNee BA(Hons) Classics

Kate McPhee BA(PR)

Amy Miers BA BEd MEd

Andrea Mina BPerformArts GradDipEd GradDipDramArt

Allie Morice CertIIIEquine

Jane Moyle DipEd(Secondary) BJourn

Sarah Murphy BSc DipEd GradDipEd (NZ)

Cameron Pinner

Lina Pranckunas DipLib&InfoServices

Sharmaine Pritchard BEd(EarlChild&Prim) GradCert(LearnDiff) MEd(Literacy) GradCertEd (GiftEd)

Aarti Ram BEd GradDipTESOL

Steve Ramage CertHort

Angela Raven BAppSc(PE) MBus(SportMgt)

Sharne Rees BEarlyChildEd(Hons)

Megan Reeve BMus(Hons) MMus(Perf) MA(MusCulture&Politics)

Niki Renganathan GradDipLib&InfoMgmt GradCertEd BEd

Julia Rohde

Kate Rohde BFineArts(Hons)

Caitlin Rosewarne BAppSc(PE)

Iain Rowe BAppScPE(Prim&Sec) MEd

Susanne Rowland

Samantha Rozek BScBusAdmin

Kate Ruzicka BA GradDipEd

Richard Sallows BBus CertA

Peter Sampsonidis DipArtsMus AMusAa(Violin)

Clare Sanders BDes(Fashion)Hons, MTeach(Sec)

Andrew Saragossi MMus BLaw BMus

Sarah Searle

Elliot Strand BMus(Perform&Comp) PGradEd

Andrew Stringer BA MTeach

Esther Tan BA(Maths&CompSci)USA GradDipEd

Laura Tcheupdjian BMus

Ley Thomas BA (Chinese/BusAppEco/Mkting

Carmen Timms BAppSc(HumanMovt) DipEd

Catherine Turnbull BMus AMus MMus

Kim Ubert BSc

Meaghan Walker DipEd Bed(Prim) GradDipArts

Gina Wardlaw DipLib&InfoServices MEd(TeachLib) BEd

John Weymouth BAppSci(Comp Sci) BMus(Hons) LMusA

Christopher Williams BComm DipEcon DipAppFin/Inv MAppFin DipEd

Karen Winderlich DipTeach GradDipTheo BEd DipCommServ Med

Pamela Young DipIllPhot DipProfWrit&Edit

Tiffany Zhou BSc DipInter MTeach(Secondary)

SHORT TERM STAFF

Tanya Bland

Ruby Deacon

Mel Grant

Aoife Howard

Tamar Jaquiery

Penelope Joyce

David Joyce

Wishodha Kuruppuachchi

Philippa Rehe

Dana Riley

ROLL CALL

K3

Chloe Alipour, Amora Bhatnagar, Freya Castley, Callum Chen, Zoe Chew, Hailey Bella Chu, Yingyin Da, Orlando D’Amico, Jasper Dang, Zoe David, Shanaya Goonawardene, Lauren Gray, Jasmine Guo, Rachel Hu, Maisie Kress, Isla Lan, Constance Li, Daixi Lu, Arya Ma, William Mallaby, Ayanna Othman, Maisie Valentina Pan, Iris Qin, Shraya Sharma, Zihui Wang, Carmen Ka Hei Wee, Xander Yuan, Del’aara Mehri Zeerak, Emma Yunqi Zhang, Tianning Zhao, Jiaxin Zhong, Willow Zhou.

K4

Arya Chen, Celia Chen, Yiyi Chen, Yisuh Cho, Joel Chong, Anh Chu, Celeste Dai, Hasti Derakhshani, Evelyn Huang, Jesslyn Huang, Olivia Huang, Yueyang Huang, Olivia Jamini, Alina Jia, Eva Jiang, Takeshi Kusatsu, Freya Lange, Mia Li, Ray Liu, Sylvia Ma, Emily Mansour, Krish Nambari, Lierre Nantes, Elle Pajor-Lin, Alena Pan, Ava Qi, Darcy Ryan, Chloe Stewart, Naveed Syed, Naomi Tan, Jayden Thong, Erika Wang, Leila Wang, Meredith Ruidi Wang, Xinran Wang, Amber Wei, Isabelle Xu-Johnston, Yinhan Yao, Yue Yu, Aimee Zhang, Sherlyn Zhang, Chelsea Zhao, Amelia Zhong, Joy Zhou.

PREP

Nagomi Ando, Adya Bist, Jasmine Budhiraja, Katharine Chau, Nora Hue Chau, Maria Chen, Qianyi Chen, Josie D’Amico, Sylvie Ding, Ziyana Jasmine Eda, Sylvie Gan, Stella Gao, Maya Garzan, Amber Jiang, Qinyi Jiang, Milli Karki, Valerie Kai-Lyn Leong, Nova Lew, Charlene Li, Hannah Li, Qianyu Li, Sophia Li, Melody Liu, Zen-Yuu Hera Liu, Ruixin Luo, Emily Ma, Olivia Mallaby, Arielle Jingmo Qin, Nastaran Ramezan Shirazi, Lydia Shen, Lilian Wang, Norah Wang, Ruo Fan Wang, Yujie Wu, Isabelle Jiuru Xie, Amber Zhang, Yana Zhang, Clarity Zhou, Ava Zhu.

YEAR 1

Arya Calic, Amelia Chen, Cindy Chen, Termeh Derakhshani, Chloe Fu, Allison Gray, Cara Gu, Sze Ue He, Vania Jamali, Mia Liang, Ruixi Liu, Mia Ryan, Charlotte Xu, Kailyn Xu, Lexie Xu, Bianca Zarif.

YEAR 2

Yinuo Dang, Audrey Enverga, Alissa Joshi, Genevieve Kai-En Leong, Evelyn Li, Janice Li, Mingyu Lin, Madelyn Muxin Liu, Hannah Sabzvari, Naomi Sun, Catherine Tsui, Zhixia Wei, Emma Wilsmore, Kaitlin Wong, Amber Xu, Nova Yang, Elsa Yu, Katherine Zhong, Alycia Zhu.

YEAR 3

Sophie Azad, Shanaya Budhiraja, Sophia Cai, Chelsea Chiu, Hayoon Cho, Sophie Downes, Ava Garzan, Lydia Geng, Yanxi Jia, Eleanor Kandare, Olivia Lu, Serena Ma, Alice Mansour, Alice Ni, Kexin Ren, Amy Sun, Xinyao Wang, Isabella Wu, Jacquelyn Shuya Wu, Candice Xu, Penelope Zhao, Charlotte Zhou.

YEAR 4

Wing Yu Chan, Claire Chau, Olivia Chen, Claire Dai, Tara Frost, Rianna Joshi, Alice Li, Claudia Liu, Kaitlyn Lu, Esmé Marques, Zara Masalkovska, Deeba Mellati, Mackenzie Qian, Meeshaya Tiwari-Lal, Chloe Wang, Victoria Wang, Tessie Wei, Mikayla Wong, Milly Xu, Yalin Zhang.

YEAR 5

Zoe Eleni Buccella, Melody Chen, Ariana M Eda, Emily Feng, Kay Lee Foong, Tesia Gu, Vishaka Hewabajjamage, Lauren Huynh, Zoe Huynh, Claire Jia, Ira Kamath, Athina Kanarev, Tian Xin Kang, Isobel Kerr, Ellie Kim, Brooke Lac, Celine Li, Olivia Li, Zi Shen Li, Minxuan Lin, Mansikha Maharana, Fathima Zoha Mohamed Aflal, Hayley Porter, Vrushali Amrita Rajeev, Theia Sarawgi, Amelia Saricam, Charlotte Seng, Nicole Sun, Yuko Walsh, Rebecca Wang, Kwan Lok Wong, Bonnie Xu, Olivia Xu, Riley Yadav, Qimeng Yang, Wun Wun Yang, Anlai Yu.

YEAR 6

Yuru Bai, Khloe Chen, Yixiao Cui, Ira Dand, Angie Dong, Lily Downes, Emily Enverga, Zhiyi Fei, Devya Gupta, Sofia Hartnett, Ashley Hsieh, Wanqi Huang, Evelyn Jiang, Audrey Li, En Xi Li, Zihan Li, Zoe Li, Esha Lingaretnam, Katherine Manolidis, Maya Mohseni, Olivia Morgan, Liana Razzaghighadikolaei, Christina Richert, Olivia Salim, Yu Rong Shi, Charlotte Singh, Maya Sivayoganathan, Jiayi Xin, Qixuan Yang, Xinran Yu, Ella Zheng, Nicole Zheng.

YEAR 7

Inaayah Altaf, Ara Amir, Fatima Anwar, Camilla Be, Leena Bhat, Eliza Bourke, Minghan Chai, Katelyn Chan, Yong-Qian Chan, Ananya Chekka, Alisha Chen, Baishakhi Choudhury, Cynthia Dong, Louisa Fung, Allanah Fuss, Shreya Garg, Amy Gillman, Xinyan Gu, Tia Gupta, Shalina Hananto, Claudia Huang, Kayleen Kang, Sharmeen Kaur, Charlotte Kemp, Rosea Khorram, Sonali Koelmeyer, Anna Li, Moxuan Li, Rui Qi Li, Chaelyn Lim, Carol Lou, Yuxi Ma, Allegra Maharaj, Prisha Mangukiya, Danika Mendis, Haana Pedram, Zara Poon, Amaryah Rajasagaram, Ritisha Rao, Qingyi Song, Ebony Southward, Sage Stone, Raina Stribbling, Wei Sun, Sera Tankir, Gisele To, Vivian Tran, Claire Wang, Isabelle Wang, Lydia Wang, Veronica Wang, Onelli Wimalasuriya, Alyssa Xiao, Jiayi Xin, Angeliex Xu, Lillian Xue, Xinlai Yu, Amanda Yung, Anna Yung, Jacqueline Xinyao Zhang, Stella Zhao.

YEAR 8

Rebecca Ang, Eva Ran Hui Bai, Nicoletta Bakirtzis, Joelle Calder, Scarlet Campbell, Andrea Chan, Xiaoyu Chang, Ivana Cheung, Charlene Choy, Tze Ning Chu, Chelsea Dong, Xinran Du, Lan Duong, Yoyo Fan, Amelia Fang, Laura Feng, Rae Ann Foong, Yuxuan Fu, Yueshan Gao, Aanya Gaur, Surya Gupta, Clarissa Hagues, Katara Haran, Caitlin Huang, Yuehan Huang, Manasvi Kommidi, Charlie Lau, Erica Lau, Abigail Leung, Catherine Li, Phoebe Lin, Dengguoer Liu, Abigail Long, Chaitra Madhujith, Charlotte McNally, Caitlin Membrey, Yanruyu Miao, Gargi Naik, Olive Nantes, Mia Nguyen, Holly Pace, Mia Kaili Rui, Charlotte Salimi, Hana Sameer, Emily Semczyszyn, Chloe Shen, Allison Shi, Avery Shi, Ava Small, Bridget Southward, Zoe Sun, Eden Tan, Qingyang Tang, Hannah Wei, Madeleine Whitehead, Charlotte Wilsmore, Hailey Yeung, Zi Xuan Zhai, Catherine Zhang, Ruimi Zhang, Angeline Zhou.

YEAR 9

Flora Stella Aguilar Oswin, Ixlú Valentina Aguilar Oswin, Jennifer Ran Yu Bai, Mishka Chadha, Keira Chan, Tayla Chan, Bella Chen, Hei Lui Cheng, Nainika Choudhury, Zara Chowdary, Charlotte Chung, Megan Clarke, Melody Deng, Scarlett Ellis-Williams, Zixuan Fan, Stephanie Gillman, Ruby Herbert, Oneli Hewakoparage, Jacqueline Ho, Wanzi Huang, Amelie Huynh, Nayonika Jain, Elsa Ji, Josephine Kerr-Smith, Liana Lam, Hana Le, Caterina Lear, Wai Kiu Li, Alison Liang, Zhiqi Lin, Chenyu Liu, Yoyo Long, Charlotte Mah, Aarushi Mihailescu, Seohyeon Moon, Toqa Muhammed, Zoe Neil, Chloe Qi, Yan Yan Qin, Kalyani Shasitharan, Xinle Shen, Sienna Siswojo, Yulin Su, Karen Sun, Aakriti Suresh, Mila Tankir, Olivia Tatchell, Shiza Tharani, Leonor Tinoco, Meeraya Tiwari Lal, Melody Tran, Vienna Wong, Aya Xue, Chereen Zhang, Lanxin Zhang, Phoebe Zhang, Yiyun Zhang, Zhiyue Zhang, Sum Lam Zheng.

YEAR 10

Ayesha Ahmed, Maheen Akhtar, Amelie Ashley, Jana Bouralexis, Yujie Cai, Eloise Calder, Anne Chen, Yuton Chen, Naomi Chuang, Eliza Creek, Elena Dimou, Yitong Dong, Della Gassert, Kanak Ghotra, Riya Gupta, Lauren Ho, Emma Houguet, Mallika Jaisinghani, Nia Jayasinghe, Anisha Jayawickrama, Tanishq Utsav Kapadia, Kathryn Karametos, Cheuk Tung Lam, Yuhong Lan, Bridget Lavery, Yi-Xin Law, Sirui Li, Erika Liao, Zixin Luo, Mila Masalkovska, Audrey Masters-Fleming, Chloe McNally, Georgia Nicola, Anagi Nihalsingha, Maayra Oberoi, Aahana Pandey, Phuong Thao Pham, Jenny Qiu, Jasmine Sethi, Navya Sethi, Riddhee Sharma, Chloe Singh, Chloe Snaden, Vienna Sood, Evelyn Teng, Janet Tran, Ruicheng Wang, Allegra Weedon, Yahara Wimalasuriya, Kewei Yang, Qinwen Yang, Ghaanavy Yathavan, Chloe Yung, Emma Yung, Amy Zhu, Jiaxi Zhu.

YEAR 11

Teresa Chen, Hei Wun Cheng, Kye-May Cheong, Fiona Fang, Isabella Gale, Xingyu Guo, Matilda Hodge, Heidi Hsieh, Yongxi Huang, Konstantina Kapnias, Isha Kapur, Carolyn Ke, Ava Kirkwood, Miao Lan, Claire Lau, Georgina Lennen, Hoi Tung Li, Sophie Marianne Li, Zixuan Li, Natalie Lin, Yutong Liu, Isabella Madden, Sofia Marmaras-Turner, Marlow McCallum, Alessia McCormack, Kexin Mei, Isabel Hiu-Kei Mezzavia, Jayda Mukhlif, Aria Nantes, Ruby O’Brien, Tayla O’Neil, Elise Pitts, Mahlia Ratnam, Alaina Rumpf, Chloe Saleh, Emily Salimi, Chak Yee Sit, Vidya Sivakumar, Alexia Stefanou, Lucy Thomas, Barbara Tinoco, Minah Tjangdjaja, Aurelia Tropea, Sara Vesely, Shenara Vidanapathirana, Lareesa Bindi Wagalekumbure Gedara, Mia-Grace Wain, Elisa Wang, Sarah Wang, Sum Yin Wong, Elizabeth Wotherspoon, Yixin Xiong, Yee Kei Yee, Emilie Yu, Sophie Zeng, Yichun Zeng, Ivanka Zhao, Ruoyun Zhao, Clare Zou.

YEAR 12

Anne Alexandropoulos, Sophie Ang, Miyou Biondo, Zoe Brown, Olivia Carletti, Criselle Cayetano, Manni Chen, Anna Chen-Tilley, Zindzi Clayford, Phoebe Creek, Priyanka De Silva, Adrija Dutta, Jiaxin Gong, Victoria Gonsalves, Maya Goonewardene, Lihan Guo, Katherine Hinh, Annie Holland, Ying Si Huo, Stephanie Jenkins, Jialin Ke, Marcella Kedzierski, Cleo Kenos, Sylvia Kerr-Smith, Christelle Kong, Emma Lavery, Alisha Chi-Kei Lee, Xin Ye Lei, Jessica Leung, Ranzi Lin, Aleisha Malic, Molly McKenzie, Remi Moussa, Xiangyue Nan, Josephine Nguyen, Shari Pieris, Alexandra Radze, Jiayi Shang, Khisha Sivajayaprakash, Nicola Skliris, Anne-Marie Sonbol, Anbing Sun, Farida Taha, Hannah Tjangdjaja, Haiden Toh, Isabella Weedon, Xianghe Wu, Xiangning Wu, Jiayun Xu, Fan Yang, Sumsum Zheng.

A LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF

When doubt swathe tightly ‘round your head And shadows dim the radiant days Remember storms will lose their strength The sun will always find a way. When dreams feel remote, out of reach And fear ends up where you go Do not give up, there’s always hope Control your mind, and patience flows. The path ahead is never direct You travel with your tears and smiles But every step will shape your soul And give you strength to walk for miles. So, trust the journey, trust your heart For every bruise would let you see That after all those daunting trials You’ve always held the key to be.

SYLVIA SUN (Year 8)