Curating Art
Margaret Betteridge (CARTER 1970)
Parent/Daughter Breakfasts
Medical Specialty
Dr Charlotte KNOX (2009)
Funding Justice
POTTER (2007)
SPAN Event In Conversation with Petronella MCGOVERN (1986)
(2002)
Welcome to SPAN News!
October 2024
SCEGGS Darlinghurst is built on the land of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. As we share knowledge, teaching and learning practices within this school, we pay respect to the longstanding and continuing histories, cultures, and knowledges of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
A SCEGGS education is more than just the teaching and learning that occurs in the classroom – it is being part of a lifelong supportive community for every girl who passes through our school. There are many pillars of this support, and our SPAN community is there for all students, parents and staff, whether they are current, past or future. Through SPAN our community can come together with like-minded peers to share, celebrate and inspire career journeys.
We hope you enjoy this issue of SPAN News which highlights the careers of four women from the SCEGGS community who are undertaking interesting and diverse careers. Also in this issue are snapshots from events throughout the year that have provided networking and connection opportunities such as the Old Girls’ Career Evening, Parent/Daughter Breakfasts and SPAN’s In Conversation with Petronella McGovern event.
If you are keen to share your story or would like to learn more about SPAN, we would love to hear from you! Please contact Tina Mavritsakis at span@sceggs.nsw.edu.au or on 02 9332 1133.
Margaret Betteridge (CARTER 1970)
Following a successful career at the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, heritage consultant and curator Margaret Betteridge was appointed to the position of Arts Advisor in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Now a director of a heritage consultancy, this SCEGGS Old Girl is shaping the careers of the next generation of art administrators and consultants.
How has your career path unfolded since graduating from SCEGGS?
My career path was inspired by the many fantastic art galleries and museums I visited as a child with my parents on their overseas university sabbatical leave.
After graduating from the University of New South Wales in 1975, I took a position with the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences before heading overseas to undertake a post-graduate degree in museum studies at the University of Leicester in the UK. I returned to the Museum to work as a curator in the field of decorative arts.
In 1984, I was appointed to the position of Fine Arts Advisor in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet with responsibility for furnishing the official residences in Sydney and Canberra and selecting official gifts for presentation overseas by the Australian Government. In 1994, I joined my late husband in his heritage consultancy and continue to work as a freelance curator with long-standing clients in the public and private sectors. I also work part-time as the curator of the City of Sydney’s Civic Collection, managing artworks, furnishings, historical memorabilia and official gifts in 23 venues, including libraries and community centres in the city.
In 2018 I was awarded the Nina Stanton Scholarship by the Copland Foundation and travelled to the UK to undertake the Royal Collection Studies course based at Windsor Castle. I could never have
imagined, as a school leaver, the life journey I would take; my career has been a wild and richly rewarding ride and I am definitely not ready to retire!
What does a typical day look like?
There is no typical day; I might be climbing scaffolding to record carved stonework detailing on a historic building, selecting items for an exhibition, researching the history of a presentation piece of silver, preparing a public lecture, recommending acquisitions of artworks to a client or working with archaeologists to determine appropriate methods for interpreting complex historic sites like the Female Factory at Parramatta or consulting with First Nations people on respectful and culturally safe ways to tell the stories of their ancestors. My work is incredibly varied and spans many disciplines which makes every project I undertake unique, but intellectually challenging.
What are some of the innovative practices you have implemented during your career?
The challenge in my work is managing collections as viable living and working contents of heritage buildings in ways which maintain their context and associations outside the museum environment. From court houses and town halls to official residences, keeping contents and context is so important and taking staff on that journey is critical.
CURATING ART
Probably the most innovative practice that I have implemented in the interpretation of historic sites is associated with advances in the digital sector. With 3D modelling, computer generated images and sophisticated audio, we can bring sites alive and reach culturally diverse audiences of any age.
You played a central role in establishing the Mint and Hyde Park Barracks museums. What motivated you to take on such iconic projects?
It would have to be the privilege – and challenge - of working with high-level multidisciplinary teams in government agencies to deliver a complex heritage project in the public domain. I managed a team of young and emerging talent to realise the vision we had, and it has been rewarding to see how those experiences have shaped their careers. What advice would you give to aspiring curators or those looking to work in the field of art management?
The fundamentals of good curatorship are so important in the responsible care and management of collections for future generations to study and enjoy. I have interviewed so many aspiring candidates for curatorial positions which are sadly now very competitive. My own experience has shown me that while academic qualifications are important, proof of passion, dedication and commitment to the cause are the game changers.
PARENT/DAUGHTER BREAKFASTS
The SCEGGS P&F Association hosted another two wonderful Parent/Daughter Breakfasts: one for Years 11 and 12 and one for Years 7 and 8.
Award-winning Old Girl Milla MCPHEE (2007) encouraged Years 11 and 12 to be open to variety and confident in offering their thoughts. After 10 years in New York and the UK, Milla returned home earlier this year as Chief Strategy Officer for one of Australia’s largest creative agencies. Students and their parents/carers also heeded Milla’s advice to “make friends” and connected with Milla after her presentation.
Similarly, Years 7 and 8 enjoyed an inspiring start to their day with Old Girl Poppy LYNCH (2015). The young actress shared her professional journey so far, reinforcing the importance of pursuing your passion, whatever it may be.
These events not only help to foster links within the SCEGGS community, but they also provide an invaluable opportunity for current students to receive early career advice that equips them with practical insights that resonate well beyond the Green Gate! Parents and daughters enjoying listening
Old Girl Poppy Lynch addressing guests at the Years 7 and 8 Parent/Daughter Breakfast
Parents and daughters kicking off the day at the Years 11 and 12 Parent/ Daughter Breakfast
Marina Morgan with daughter Anastasia Botros
Isla and Olivia Roberts with their father Craig
Georgia Tsangaris with parents Maurice and Jenne
Evelyn Vigil, Avalon Korda, Old Girl Milla McPhee and Aromaia Balfour Ash
Georgina Auld and Stella Brenton
Dr Charlotte KNOX (2009)
Gastroenterologist and Old Girl
Dr Charlotte KNOX (2009) is currently in London practising her specialty as part of the University College Hospital team. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in a maledominated field has highlighted the positive impact she can have on the lives of her patients.
Can you share your career path to becoming a Gastroenterologist?
After completing my degree in Medicine at the University of New South Wales in 2015, I was matched to Prince of Wales Hospital for my internship and residency. I rotated through several specialties, and through that process I chose Gastroenterology. After two years of Physician Training, and passing the final exams, I applied for Advanced Training in Gastroenterology and spent my first two years at Prince of Wales Hospital where I refined my clinical and endoscopic skills, and my passion for the subspecialty of Pancreato-Biliary medicine and Advanced Endoscopy developed. My final year of training was spent at Royal North Shore Hospital where I pursued this subspecialty and became qualified in Advanced Endoscopy in 2022. I then worked as a Consultant Gastroenterologist until July 2023 when I attained a fellowship at University College Hospital London, in PancreatoBiliary Medicine and Endoscopy. Post fellowship, I will resume as a Consultant Gastroenterologist bringing new skills and knowledge to the specialty and my practice.
Why did you select to specialise in this area of medicine?
I had an interest in Gastroenterology from early on at uni when a family member developed a complex Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Gastroenterology provides a mix of being a well-rounded physician with multi-organ system involvement, plenty of patient contact and the attraction of advanced technical procedural skills. It also allowed me to combine my interest in Oncology, particularly in the sphere of PancreatoBiliary Endoscopy with diagnosis and management of cancers. It is a specialty that continues to advance exponentially which will allow me to build on my skills throughout my career.
How do you stay up to date on the latest developments in Gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is an everchanging specialty and through training, and even as a consultant, you continue to build on your pre-existing skill set. There are significant technology advancements which is exciting, and I keep up to date by undertaking research projects, reading journals and getting involved in teaching the next generation of doctors. I have had papers published in iron deficiency anaemia, capsule endoscopy, pancreatitis, and the management of biliary obstruction,
and I will continue to be involved in research throughout my career. Additionally, I have attended and presented at conferences around the world, such as Digestive Diseases Week, United European Gastroenterology Week and European Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Week, which allows me to stay up to date across a broad range of topics in Gastroenterology.
What would you describe as your most memorable career moment so far?
My most memorable career moment is not so much a moment, but the last year! Living in London and being part of the team at University College Hospital, whilst undertaking my subspecialty in Pancreato-Biliary Medicine and Endoscopy, has been a dream. Over the year I have honed my specialty procedural skills, learnt new endoscopic techniques that are not available elsewhere in the world and seen patients with conditions that I’ve never seen before. I’ve broadened my research and performed live Endoscopy in front of hundreds of people. I’ve learnt from the very best Endoscopists at the top of their field. It has been a once in a lifetime opportunity and one that I would highly recommend taking if you ever have the chance.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in specialties like Gastroenterology?
My advice would be to go for it, dream big and don’t let anyone say you can’t do it. It’s certainly not an easy path; it requires a lot of determination, hard work and commitment but it is also an extremely rewarding career, to understand the positive effect that you can have on someone’s life and in
turn the effect they have on yours. I’ve chosen a particularly male-dominated specialty in Pancreato-Biliary Endoscopy; in the UK only 5% are female; however, I have never let this affect the positions I applied for or let it be an impediment in the advancement of my career. Be confident in your own abilities and be an advocate for yourself and in turn your future patients. I could not imagine doing anything else.
Dr Charlotte Knox presenting at a conference in London
FUNDING JUSTICE
Kennedy POTTER (2007)
Litigation Investment Manager
Kennedy POTTER (2007) brings rich and varied legal expertise to her role, which is currently focused on funding class actions against renowned companies. Working in this evolving field, Kennedy delves into the legal industry, sharing with SPAN News some of her biggest career challenges.
How have your education and career journeys led you to your current role at Court House Capital?
My education and career journeys have been equally important in contributing to my current role with Court House Capital (CHC).
At a high level, litigation funding provides money to a party who otherwise lacks funds needed to litigate a claim. The litigation funder pays the costs of the litigation and accepts the risk of paying the other party’s costs if the case fails. In return, if the case succeeds, the litigation funder is paid a share of the proceeds after the reimbursement of legal costs.
CHC is a leading litigation funder focused on cases in Australia and New Zealand, with a combination of class actions, general commercial and insolvency matters. Our current focus is on class actions with CHC funding active actions against McDonald’s Australia, a2 Milk, Jetstar Airways and RAMS Home Loans.
My role as a Litigation Investment Manager involves liaising with a network of lawyers and undertaking extensive due diligence on potential cases CHC would be interested to fund and maintaining oversight while they are being litigated.
My education at school and university provided me with a strong foundation in legal principles, critical thinking and analytical skills. It is from here that I have been able to apply these skills in a practical context with the various legal roles I’ve held. These roles have allowed me to gain a further understanding and invaluable experience on litigation processes, case management and the complexities of legal disputes. In addition, my time at SCEGGS and in the workforce has been fundamental in developing the network of people I work with daily.
Litigation investment is a growing field—how do you see it evolving in the next few years, particularly in Australia?
Litigation funding in Australia is poised for further growth and evolution, driven by regulatory changes and market dynamics. In particular:
• Regulatory Changes - There may be increased scrutiny and regulation, particularly around transparency and the ethical obligations of funders. This could lead to clearer guidelines on disclosure and the duties of litigation funders.
• Market Growth - The market for litigation funding is expected to continue growing, as more businesses and individuals recognise its potential. This could lead to increased competition among funders.
• Increased Institutional InvestmentMore institutional investors might enter the market, attracted by the potential returns, leading to greater capital availability and access to justice.
• Focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors - These considerations may increasingly influence funding decisions, with funders looking to support cases that align with socially responsible objectives.
You’ve worked across different types of roles in the legal sector, including insurance litigation and legal counsel roles. How have these experiences shaped your approach to litigation?
My various roles in the legal sector, especially in insurance and as legal counsel at EY, have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and financial dimensions of litigation. In turn, this has assisted in a funding capacity by providing:
• Deep legal insight and a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in claims, defences and negotiations. This helps me assess the merits of cases more effectively and identifying those with strong potential for funding.
• Negotiation skills with experience in facilitating settlements and understanding terms which are crucial when discussing funding agreements and potential settlement scenarios with plaintiffs in a class action.
• Interdisciplinary knowledge with an exposure to the various players in litigation allows me to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders involved in funding a claim from solicitors, barristers, finance professionals to investors. This facilitates bridging the gap between legal strategy and funding considerations.
Overall, my journey through these various roles has equipped me with a unique skill set that enhances my ability to evaluate, support and manage litigation funding effectively.
What is one of the most challenging cases you’ve managed, and how did you navigate the complexities to ensure a successful outcome?
CHC funded a class action against Tyro Payments Limited (Tyro). This class action was launched in the Federal Court of Australia on behalf of businesses who suffered losses arising from a software outage causing EFTPOS terminals to become inoperable and incapable of accepting non-cash payments.
While the class action settled at mediation, the settlement still had to be approved by the Court. This step is undertaken to ensure a settlement is in the best interest of the collective plaintiffs, in this case, the businesses who suffered loss. However, the judge in charge of this process was initially reluctant to endorse the approval. This unfolded against a background of competing interests among the plaintiffs, the lawyers representing the plaintiffs, the defendant, and the funder.
To ensure the class action was approved and a successful outcome for CHC, I had to utilise my communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills to facilitate an outcome which all parties were satisfied with.
What advice would you give to someone looking to transition from traditional legal roles into litigation funding?
Be mindful that the legal industry, like many industries, is continually evolving. Gone are the days where a successful career in Law is just seen as partnership in a law firm, becoming a barrister or a judge.
My advice would be to always have a goal to strive towards. While it may not be where you end up, it will put you on a path that is enriching in some way. This will provide you with teachable and invaluable experiences sometimes resulting in a confirmation of what you previously foreshadowed or leading you to a place somewhere completely different. It is this mindset which saw me alter my preconceived notions of what I thought my career in the law would be, to my role today, which I absolutely love.
Be sure to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, legal or otherwise. Observe, read, travel, learn and experience the world around you. This will make you a more well-rounded person which is crucial for a role in funding which deals with all different types of cases and stakeholders. It will also introduce you to a network of people who will become important at varying times in your career.
IN CONVERSATION WITH PETRONELLA MCGOVERN
What does a creative career look like? How do you know when it is time to shelve an idea? Can you write a bestselling novel without quitting your ‘day job’?
journalist Amy DALE (2005) about how to break into and make a career as an author.
These were some of the questions discussed at the recent SPAN event In Conversation with Petronella McGovern. Having published her fourth novel, The Last Trace, in July, Old Girl and best-selling author Petronella MCGOVERN (1986) was interviewed by fellow Old Girl and Petronella signing a copy of ‘The Last Trace’
The evening began with a reading from The Last Trace , followed by a robust discussion where both Petronella and Amy shared fascinating insights about the writing process, how to nurture your creative spark in the midst of your professional career and other commitments, as well as the rewards and challenges of their daily work. The audience were engaged participants with Amy noting that, “It was a great evening with a wonderful audience. I loved their enthusiasm with questions, and it was fabulous to hear from two current students/budding authors in the crowd.”
“SPAN is a really supportive, encouraging group which lifts up other women and girls - here’s to its ongoing work,” said Petronella.
SPAN is committed to offering career networking opportunities of interest to our community. Please email span@sceggs.nsw.edu.au with career topics or industries that you would like to know more about.
Jenny Allum, Petronella McGovern and Amy Dale
The Dorothy Wilkinson Library provided the ideal setting for this SPAN event
Angela and Piper Keel
Amy and Petronella sharing their professional career stories
Clair Ancher and Kristine Sodersten
Michael and Deborah Aitken with Sue Marshall
Eloise SNAPE (2002)
Eloise is an award-winning writer, actor, producer and voice artist. Starting her tertiary studies in Media, it wasn’t until she joined her university’s Drama Society that she discovered her passion and is still doing something that makes her happy every day!
Tell us a little about your studies and career since leaving SCEGGS.
After my time at SCEGGS, I was thrust onto the Macquarie University campus. Convinced I wanted to be a journalist, I began studying (or not so much) for a Bachelor of Media in Writing. However, in my first week there, I found myself signing up to join DRAMAC – the Macquarie University Drama Society. I had a wildly wonderful time with these creative and eclectic humans, who years on, still work in the industry and remain some of my closest friends.
In my second year, I was awarded a scholarship to study at the University of Westminster in London. While I had been dating theatre in Sydney, in London I fell in love with it. Upon graduating, I went straight into working in community radio – my degree had a large practical component in radio, which I really enjoyed. I worked full time at 2SER radio and volunteered as a presenter on various shows on FBi. At 25, I auditioned for the Actors Centre Australia and in a somewhat controversial move, dropped everything to study acting full time for three years. I had such an incredible time; despite knowing I may come out to a very challenging career path, I always believed that experience and the people I met would all be worth the risk. And it really was. Since then, I have been fortunate enough to have worked in the industry for 13 years now, and while it of course comes with its difficulties, it is a job that brings me a lot of joy and I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.
Eloise (Centre) with her ‘Colin from Accounts’ co-stars Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer
Were you always interested in a career in the performing arts?
I always liked theatre –I auditioned for plays at SCEGGS and studied Drama for the HSC. One of my favourite memories of Drama at SCEGGS was playing Angela in Secret Bridesmaids’ Business. The people I met doing that play are still some of my closest friends (24?!) years on. But I guess I never believed that I could do it for an actual job. Yet despite this, I kept pursuing it – I got better at taking the nos. In fact, a huge part of the job is learning to dust off rejection and not take it personally. I always said, the day this doesn’t make me happy anymore is the day I’ll stop and do something else. And thankfully, that day has yet to come!
You have worked on screen (Colin from Accounts), starred in theatre (Midnight Murder at Hamlington Hall - Ensemble Theatre), written a play (Pony – Griffin Theatre) and have been a voice-over artist. Do you have a favourite medium for storytelling?
They are honestly all so different. Voice-over is highly technical. It’s almost like reading music. You also tend to get no rehearsal – you turn up, get handed a script and have a short amount of time to deliver the job. Screen operates on a much larger scale and is super exciting to be a part of. You also have the option of repeating your performance.
ACTING THE PART
And you’ve got to love an editor who can make you look better. With theatre, as an actor it’s the thrill of the immediacy of communicating directly with an audience, in the moment. Once you step out on that stage there’s no going back. Writing Pony I think is the scariest thing I’ve ever done. At least as an actor there is an element of you that can hide behind other theatrical elements. Whereas watching your own words come to life, you have zero control and you feel completely naked. I would say that is the story-telling moment I am most proud of.
What has the process of moving from writing for theatre to writing for screen been like?
I am very lucky to be surrounded by amazing mentors. Some of the best in the business. They have honestly given me the confidence of being able to dive right in and tell the stories I want to tell. And that it’s ok for a first draft to be messy and not perfect.
In an industry that is extremely competitive, what advice do you give emerging artists to stand out from the crowd?
I used to spend a lot of time comparing myself to others, wondering why them, and not me. That is potentially the worst thing you can do to yourself. Don’t try to be like anyone else. Know that you are enough. No one else is like you or can be like you or can tell the same stories as you.
CAREER NETWORKING EVENING
It was a joy to welcome back to SCEGGS over 40 Old Girls for the Old Girls’ Career Networking evening –our first one since COVID!
Hailing from a range of industries, the Old Girls shared their experiences, tips and advice to help current students as they navigate their path towards a rewarding and fulfilling career.
The evening started with a panel discussion and then students attended two career sessions of interest. Options included Allied Health, Law, Medical, and Engineering to name a few! Lucia CHAPPLE (2021) spoke about landing her dream internship at Mirvac. Selected from over 400 applicants, Lucia said “it was lovely
Panelists Ada Yin, Matina Lianos, Hannah Gibbs and Daniella Chami
to be joined by other inspiring SCEGGS women in the industry and to be able to share our passion for the property industry with the next cohort of young women.”
Current students appreciated hearing from those who also had journeyed within the Green Gate and gained invaluable perspectives
Let the inspiration begin!
about kick-starting their careers, understanding what a typical day may look like in a certain profession, the benefits of mentors and more.
Thank you to our Old Girl community who play such a generous and supporting role in encouraging current students–Once a SCEGGS Girl, Always a SCEGGS Girl!
Old Girls Sarah Wainwright, Olivia Axford, Charlotte Harris and Georgia Niederer with current students eager to learn more about their careers in Advertising, Marketing and Communications
A captive audience at the SCEGGS Old Girls’ Career Evening
Holly Garber and Danielle Draper discussed their careers in the fashion industry
Gaining insights from Old Girls about working in the Creative and Performing Arts