THE SCOTCH FAMILY MAGAZINE ISSUE 165 APRIL 2022
FAREWELL TOM BATTY SC 2008 – 2022
LEADING A JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 1
CONTENTS 1 EDITOR
38 DRAMA
2 CHAIRMAN
42 MUSIC
4 PRINCIPAL
46 SPORT
6 CHAPLAIN
56 BOARDING
8 JUNIOR SCHOOL
58 FOUNDATION
14 MIDDLE SCHOOL
69 OSCA
15 UPPER SCHOOL
99 WHAT THEY’RE DOING NOW
16 FEATURES
102 SCHOOL HISTORY
34 SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS
106 OBITUARIES
8 TWO HEADS DISCUSS ONE Conversation: Tom Batty’s profound influence on Scotch
16 THE REMARKABLE CLASS OF 2021 Rising above two years of uncertainty
THE SCOTCH FAMILY MAGAZINE ISSUE 165 APRIL 2022
is the official publication of Scotch College, Melbourne. Publisher Scotch College 1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn 3122 Victoria, Australia Phone: (03) 9810 4321 Email: greatscot@scotch.vic.edu.au www.scotch.vic.edu.au ABN 86 852 826 445 Print Post Approved PP100008172
View Old Scotch Collegians' Association news and updates at: www.oscanet.com.au Like us on Facebook Scotch College and OSCA
Editorial contributors Durga Kamte, David Ashton, Paul Mishura, Philip Wright, Tim Shearer. Editor Durga Kamte (03) 9810 4420 email: durga.kamte@scotch.vic.edu.au
18 FAREWELL, TOM BATTY Reflections from staff and boys
Assistant Editor David Ashton (03) 9810 4489 email: david.ashton@scotch.vic.edu.au Art Direction and Production Lisa Sheard (03) 9810 4443 email: lisa.sheard@scotch.vic.edu.au Photography James Grant, Scotch College students, staff, parents and community.
42 FIVE DAYS, FIVE CONCERTS Glorious music captivates delighted audiences
2 Great Scot Number 152 – December 2017
EDITORIAL This edition of Great Scot marks the close of another chapter in the School’s history as Tom Batty leaves at the end of Semester One, after 14 years of inspirational leadership. There will undoubtedly be a series of celebratory events later in the semester to recognise his legacy, some of which will be recorded in the September Great Scot. How do you measure the worth of a leader? As Tom has noted when boys depart at the end of the year, there are measurable achievements, and those attributes that are of equal if not greater worth, that are unquantifiable. In these pages, you will read of Tom’s immense achievements in so many domains. Under his watch, world-class facilities have been completed, and strong education-centred relationships established with other leading boys’ schools through the International Boys’ School Coalition, of which Tom is Trustee. Scotch has received accreditation as a Safe School with the Australian Childhood Foundation. Enduring ties bind us to our friends at Tiwi College and other Indigenous communities through the Indigenous Partnership Program. International student exchanges with schools in Europe, South Africa, the US and UK have inspired many boys to pursue tertiary studies overseas. And these achievements are just a sample. Beyond these touchstones, the real impact of Tom’s legacy lies in his passionate advocacy of relational learning, evident in classrooms, Home Rooms, boarding, and in every facet of boys’ daily interactions. The essential ‘soft skills’ boys require to prepare them for life beyond Morrison
Street, aligning with evolving social and cultural values, are thoughtfully embedded through initiatives such as pastoral and classroom-based ‘respectful relationships’ programs, resulting in a recognition of, and understanding of, different perspectives through student-led talks in Assembly, and group-led discussions, on ‘softer’ models of masculinity, combatting homophobia and bullying, and embracing diverse perspectives. Tom’s invitation to boys ‘to see their Principal between 8.00 and 8.30 every morning’, often after posing open-ended questions to them in Assembly, has clearly endeared him to many. They seek his advice to clarify their views, but as importantly to have a chat with him, revelling in his good humour, keen interest in their lives, and his kind heart. On a personal note, as I take my leave as Editor of Great Scot, I thank Tom for inviting me to take up this role in 2013. I wasn’t aware then, and have rejoiced in learning, of the intricate tapestry that makes up the fabric of the School, and the interplay between the Senior and Junior School, Council, Foundation, Old Boys and parents’ associations that results in the publications you receive three times a year. In thanking all contributors, I would like to extend my gratitude particularly to the Great Scot editorial team: David Ashton, Lisa Sheard, Paul Mishura, Scott Montgomery and Tim Shearer, for your professionalism, support and friendship. Great Scot will be in very good hands as Christophe Taylor takes over the editorial role. I hope he enjoys the journey and good fellowship as much as I have. Thank you.
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STUDENT-CENTRED LEARNING Enabling each boy to develop in the visual arts
PRODUCTIVE DEVELOPMENT DECADE Continuing to transform our built environment
‘NORMAL’ OSCA TRANSMISSION RESUMES A full 2022 program planned
DURGA KAMTE EDITOR GREAT SCOT
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 3
CHAIRMAN
MR ALEX SLOAN ('71) SCHOOL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN
THE IMPORTANCE OF RESILIENCE The last two years of the COVID pandemic have tested everyone – every institution, every family and every individual. These kinds of unexpected and tumultuous events put us all to the test: can we adapt our lives and our work to navigate the challenges that have emerged? How do we come out the other side better not worse for the experience, and what learnings, individually and collectively, can we take forward to prepare ourselves for the next event? The experience of coming through adversity can make us stronger and hopefully better equipped to cope with the next challenge. Resilience is the critical quality in life that can allow us to bounce back from adversity. Once experienced and understood, resilience 4 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
can become an essential tool in an ever-changing world. As I think back over the last 24 months it is very clear to me that the Scotch community has exhibited great resilience. Your Council is particularly grateful for the efforts of all staff – efforts that have allowed the School to bounce back to relative normality, having delivered some very fine results in the meantime, in very difficult circumstances. We owe much to our Principal, Tom Batty, who also has demonstrated great resilience and dexterity over the past two years in his leadership of the School. I again thank Tom on behalf of the Scotch Family for this, and for his outstanding contribution over the past 14 years.
While paying credit to staff, credit is also due to the boys and their families. Each of us has a story to tell and we must all be mindful that the impact of the disruption did not fall equally. Hopefully we can call on our various experiences over the last two years in the future, as required. Thinking through and talking about how we have coped and adapted is an extremely valuable life lesson for all concerned. I know that staff have and will continue to provide support where it is most needed. The School Council has also been far from immune from challenge in recent times. As members of our community know, Council made the very difficult decision in January not to proceed with the appointment to the position of Principal announced last November. At a personal level I want to take this opportunity to express my regret to the Scotch community that the appointment could not proceed as planned in July 2022. Some in and outside our community have sought to attribute blame that we found ourselves in this position. While I don’t think that is helpful in dealing with matters of such sensitivity, as a Council, we share the collective responsibility for our decisions in relation to this matter. We remain confident that the right course has been taken for the future of our School. Having come through that experience, Council has needed to demonstrate its resilience and get on with this most critical of its responsibilities. I want you to be confident that Council is determined to meet the test – we are forging ahead with new advisors and with confidence that we will find the very best candidate to lead our School in the future. There will be no compromise in this most important mission. In my message last December, you may remember I made reference to Council’s ambition to unveil a fully integrated strategy to underpin the next era of the School as early as possible in 2023. That ambition remains very much to the fore in Council’s mind, albeit the timing of that initiative will by necessity be pushed back by several months. We will obviously want to incorporate the thinking of our new Principal in the strategy development process. Perhaps the key to understanding Council’s approach in the coming months is to understand that there will be no compromise of standards in what we do. Whether we are speaking of the new Principal appointment, our strategy development, or any other aspect of governance, the highest standards will apply. My key message to all is that being truly resilient requires us to respond in a way that does not diminish the goals we had previously set ourselves. The timeline might change, the method of execution may be different, but the outcome will not be compromised. I wish all in our community the very best as 2022 unfolds, and may we all be well served by the experience of the last two years as we navigate a rapidly changing world. Great Scot 5
PRINCIPAL
THE PEOPLE YOU MEET MR TOM BATTY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
In 1987, mind full of tales from my Kiwi dentist, I boarded a flight to New Zealand to start my teaching career at Thames High School on the stunning Coromandel Peninsula. I didn’t know anyone in the country and was attracted by the adventure of the new. All was made possible by the wonderful Headmaster, Tom Hill, who backed a young lad from the UK enough to push through the administration. Ticket purchased via a childhood friend who came to Britain via Idi Amin’s Uganda, I said Gatwick farewells and set forth. In Thames, I found Mãori welcome, a wonderful school community and, in teaching and education, a passion for life. I was soon playing football for the town with new friends from the local car factory, a Liverpudlian who had jumped ship in Auckland and a Vietnam veteran who’d become the town police officer. Free time was spent sharing the passions of my housemates fishing and diving for scallops and crayfish, and going to the trots. I met the people of the town through business house sport, took week long camps of Year 8s up into the ranges with a sheet of tarpaulin and had the Friday evening responsibility of shinning up the flagpole to bring down the flag. I quickly felt part of the place. A few months post arrival, en route to the South Island ski fields with housemates and friends, I found myself staring out of the car window looking at the small towns passing by as the kilometres turned. I reflected that I could so easily have written to the high school at any of these towns and ended up as part of their community. I would have found similar timetables and school routines. No doubt, they would all have football clubs and local sporting competitions. The laws, regulations and norms governing behaviour and social interaction would have been much the same. So, what is it that is different between communities? What really gives colour to our lives and our celebration of each other’s quirks, foibles and talents? The people you meet. From Thames to Wellington, the compassion and mercy of a Catholic boys’ school of the Marist tradition, a priest who became a dear friend, a new football club in an Italian community, a boy whose dad was a fisherman and whose mum used to make me shirts, and one of the very best friends I’ve made in adult life, and his introduction to Pacific Island culture
6 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
through a Samoan homework centre and the Põneke rugby sheds. Boys of the 1st XI football team who would stay in touch and play for their country. Sadness through the loss of new friends, a dear Headmaster and a housemate whose love of mountains came at cost. Sydney followed, and with the beautiful harbour came my beautiful wife and an exposure to rural Australia and its people that would grow to a deep sense of connection. Reconnection with childhood friends now trading chemicals and forming sheet metal. A new football club and new friends: a windscreen fitter who started his business on the back of a hailstorm and a systems analyst with a sweet left foot. Tutoring calculus, algebra and discrete mathematics brought forward, with an eagle on his shoulder, another of the great friends made in adult life, and, through a student who escaped, at terrible cost, the horrors of Pol Pot, a great lesson in life. The decision to stay and a school above the beach. A mathematics department spanning age and culture. Young men of passion, energy and humour who, once respect was forged, would run through brick walls. A former priest with an exceptional mind, an Irishman with a big heart and a former Brother who took my sporting wagers like candy. A colleague who headed north to run a general store and introduced me to the moonlit surf on Back Beach, Angourie. The people you meet. The Old Country called and a flat at school became a house and then a boarding house as family immediate and extended grew. A Year 10 boy who would call round for cordial and cakes on our deckchairs, and two of his classmates who left us too soon. Old friends who had sought fortune, had children and paid debts, running community football clubs and holding court in the White Horse. Dear friends with new twins clutching to sanity. Saying thank you to Georgi Zhukov at the Kremlin wall with a new dear Russian friend and a taxi driver who learnt his craft in a T34 at the battle of Kursk. A prince who gave me lifts from school who fell in a palace coup, and a Welsh mathematician with a passion for poetry and mountains who became a mentor. House trips to Brentford FC and a near miss crossing Ealing Road for a peer of the realm. Clever, funny, lively boys and
families who shared times, wits and laughter, thinking differently to most and mostly about different things. The people you meet. To Scotch courtesy of two outstanding leaders who have served school, families and country with distinction, and from whom I have had the privilege to continue to learn. Love and lasting friendship through sadness and loss with a dear family and a wonderful chaplain. Dreams for school being made real by minds and resolve forged at the Wimbledon high ball, the fitness regimes of Sydney’s West, the hostelries of downtown Harrogate, the far reaches of Whittlesea and the perspicacity born of flight by boat as a child. Wonderful boys and young men doing wonderful things. Strong people speaking openly of their loves and fears. Plotting with a determined coach and Jolly Boating Weather at Henley. Boys winning competitions, helping those in need, hiking through the night and leading orchestras. Tiwi elders and a passionate Tiwi woman and Melbourne man who set about saving their community with a school: ‘there is no Plan B’. Men too many bearing the pain of abuse. A boy and his mum who loved each other but didn’t know it. The first female prime minister of Australia. A wonderful 106-year-old Old Boy with a love of rugby and his heart with God. A former Lancaster pilot who bombed Germany as my mum was bombed out in Liverpool. A British Consul who introduced me to a friend in a Richmond pub, who turned out to be the son of a German soldier who had fought at Stalingrad and had bounced my new born daughter on his knee at a dinner at Eton. An outstanding history teacher with a love of football and World War II, who makes educational games for his students, but would never sell them for fear they lose advantage. Decent people. Quietly, skilfully, slowly, biding time and, piece by piece, like a bird at its nest, putting together a programme to change the lives of Indigenous people. Young teachers still crossing the seas, experiencing loss and love and driving the journey on. A new friend on a tractor with a love of the beautiful game and a belief in humanity. A talented young teacher who chose to direct her skill and passion to the students of Tiwi College. A physicist with an imaginative mind, sense of fun and a love of volleyball. Big hearted colleagues needing care for their big hearts. A boy with an oboe
holding a Dulwich audience in the palm of his hand. An exchange to Washington finding first love and one to South Africa finding relatives. Boys with learning difficulties pushing through challenges and claiming reward. A celebrated conductor, an Olympic great 800m runner and scientists who have changed lives. Parent generosity by the Yarra, Thames, Huangpu, Hudson and Harbour. A young lad with a truck, sharp mind and self-belief who built a logistics dynasty. A leader of tennis and an airline always generous with her time and advocacy for women’s rights. Boarding families, who understand education, share its joy and rally around when the cold wind blows. Elders and dancers from Wadeye at Presentation Night. People who live their faith quietly and for others. Children off away finding their classical and scientific paths meeting those, who in turn, will shape their lives. Young people and dear friends taken too soon. The people you meet. This Scotch of 2022 brought together boys with journeys set in Mildura, Hong Kong, Camberwell, Armadale and Armidale, Gol Gol, Axe Creek and Colbinabbin, Thailand, Malaysia, China, Singapore and Vietnam, Hawthorn, Kew and Cairns, Holbrook and Bendigo, and Waratah and Sandy Bays. The stories of parents and staff span the corners and the cultures of the world. They will collide, entwine, inspire, occasionally tread on each other’s toes and frustrate, and they will flourish, forging opportunity, love and hope. In my final Scotch scholarship interview, I met a quirky, shy Year 8 boy, hoping with his mother for that twist of fate that changes a life’s course. His face seemed all glasses and mask as he fidgeted on the couch. I asked him whether he thought it more important to do the right thing or the kind thing. He paused, looked about the room wistfully and replied, ‘The kind thing’. ‘Why?’ I enquired. And he told me: ‘Because, when you do the kind thing, you know in your heart it’s the right thing.’ The people you meet. Thank you.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 7
CHAPLAIN
REV DAVID ASSENDER SCHOOL CHAPLAIN
CHALLENGED, ENCOURAGED AND EDUCATIONALLY NOURISHED UNDER TOM BATTY’S LEADERSHIP
HIS INFLUENCE WILL REMAIN WITH US
Our Principal, Tom Batty’s eye is tirelessly on the horizon, on research, and on all those over whom he has charge. His diligence, care and thoughtfulness remind me of what Jesus said in John’s Gospel: ‘I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep…’ Tom has given so much of himself for us at Scotch. He has not just thrown himself into the task as Principal, but in every measure has sought to know and be known. He’s not afraid to be himself and accepts you for who you are. However the work of a shepherd is to feed the sheep. We have been challenged, encouraged and educationally nourished by Tom’s leadership. We have experienced developmental and personal growth under his watchful eye as our principal shepherd. One of the things many of us appreciate about Tom’s leadership is his aptitude for sifting out the things that matter from the things that don’t. His modus operandi is consistent with his message: challenge the things that need challenging, support the things that need supporting, but never forget the intrinsic worth of each human being. He carries foremost what any great principal should; the preparation and care of emerging generations for a better world. A good shepherd not only knows his sheep, but also the terrain. Educational researcher Tony Euade writes: ‘The surrounding culture affects us all, but children particularly strongly. The current culture, based on materialism, trivialisation and celebrity encourages self-interest, individualism and narcissism and has a profound effect in the models of success and aspiration provided. The result is confusion rather than moral decline. So adults should not succumb to moral panic, 8 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
but seek to equip children to negotiate a path through this uncertain terrain.’ (New Perspectives on Young Children’s Moral Education, page 180). What I admire most about Tom is his considerate nature while picking his way through difficult and complex situations and ideologies. There are powerful markets of political, social and commercial movements vying for the hearts and minds, for the attention, and for the identity, of our youth. We are not just preparing them for careers in future markets, but for what Charles Taylor calls a ‘social imaginary’. With what models will they choose to shape their new world? What influences and ideas will they draw from? In turn, what will they raise their children to believe? This is the task of education. It is about learning from our past, preparing for the future and figuring out where we might fit between it all. It takes a caring person to lead an educational community through this successfully. A principal needs to have the best interests of his students at heart, because many of the other influences in their life do not. For all those in the work of shepherding souls, the apostle Peter instructs us to ‘… watch over them – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but by being an example to the flock’. (1 Peter 5:2-3). Tom leaves us with a fine example of a principal shepherd. We have thrived under his leadership. No doubt he will take his honed skills as a shepherd to other pastures. His influence will remain with us both personally and through all he has tirelessly worked at in shaping our Scotch community these last 15 years.
FEATURES
PORTRAIT OF FORMER SCHOOL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN PORTRAIT OF HON DR DAVID KEMP AC TO HANG IN MEMORIAL HALL Former School Council Chairman, Hon Dr David Kemp AC (’59) and his wife, Anne Marie, came to School Assembly on Wednesday 9 March to unveil a portrait of Dr Kemp, painted by noted Australian artist and sculptor, Robert Hannaford AM, and commissioned by OSCA. The portrait depicts Dr Kemp in a relaxed, thoughtful attitude. Introducing Dr Kemp to the boys, Principal Tom Batty noted Dr Kemp attended Scotch from 1949-59, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather, his two grandfathers and his father. Dr Kemp’s own sons, William (’90), Andrew (’04) and Charles (’10) were also at Scotch. Charles was School Captain in 2011. In his final Scotch year, Dr Kemp was a School Prefect, Co-Editor of The Scotch Collegian and co-Dux of the School, gaining Exhibitions in Economics and Latin and a General Exhibition. Dr Kemp was elected as Member for Goldstein in the Parliament of Australia in 1990, and retired at the 2004 election. In Parliament he held many ministerial posts, and has also had many Liberal Party appointments. He is an Honorary Life Member of the party. Dr Kemp has also held senior postings at the University of Melbourne and Monash University, and he has published many papers and authored several books. In the 2017 Australia Day honours, Dr Kemp received a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) award for his eminent service to the Parliament of Australia, and to the community. A member of School Council from 2004-2021, Dr Kemp had eight very successful years as Chairman. During his chairmanship, the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science, the Spencer Centre for Design and Technology, the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall, and St Andrew’s Square, as well as the House Home rooms
and the new English Department area in the Lithgow Building were all built. Mr Batty said Dr Kemp’s record of service to his School and his country is unparalleled. He felt privileged to have worked for nine years alongside Dr Kemp, and he had learned much from this experience. After Dr and Mrs Kemp unveiled the portrait, Dr Kemp spoke to the boys, thanking the Council and Mr Batty for arranging to have the portrait painted, and also thanking the artist, Robert Hannaford, for his work and skill in creating such a good likeness. He said: ‘I should say that I have myself contributed to this portrait by sitting very still for several hours on each of six days, while Mr Hannaford noted every detail of the light and shadows in the room. He took a great deal of care to make sure that the light fell exactly where he wanted it to be. I have been fortunate to have had my portrait painted by someone who is definitely one of Australia’s great portraitists.’ He spoke of the expertise and dedication of the School Council, and of the love of Scotch which unites and inspires them. He said the Council had appreciated the opportunity to work with Mr Batty as he set out to improve the educational and other opportunities for all Scotch boys. Dr Kemp told the boys they were very fortunate to attend a great school like Scotch. ‘You all have an opportunity not only to learn and have wonderful experiences, but to work closely with each other, and your teachers, to gain the very most that the School has to offer. I give you every good wish for your time here.’ Dr Kemp’s portrait will hang in the Memorial Hall, along with portraits of other notable figures in Scotch’s history.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 9
JUNIOR SCHOOL
MR TOM SAVILL HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
MR JON ABBOTT HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL 2011-21
WHEN TWO HEADS DISCUSS ONE The end of the first semester of 2022 will also signal the end of another amazing chapter in our School’s rich history, with the Tom Batty era reaching its conclusion. As Heads of the Junior School, we both feel privileged to have worked alongside such a wonderful leader and educator. Equally, the boys, staff and families of our Junior School have been very fortunate to have had his influence and guidance over them during this period. This article focuses on a conversation we had about Mr Batty’s influence, and a few questions asked by the current Head of Junior School to his predecessor, with a particular focus on Mr Abbott’s longer working relationship with the Principal of Scotch College. TOM SAVILL – HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL JON ABBOTT – HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL, 2011-21
Tom Savill: As Principal of the entire School it can be very challenging to have an authentic connection to all aspects of the institution. What did Mr Batty’s connections to the Junior School and its boys look like in practice? Jon Abbott: While it is true to say that Tom’s experience and main area of expertise has been in the secondary and boarding areas of our School, that does not mean that he has not had a keen interest in and love for the younger members of Scotch. Tom would regularly pop over to the Junior School to spend time with staff, to be among the boys, and to support the many and varied activities that make up the culture of the Junior School. Indeed, one of his favourite times was to drop in unexpectedly at the end of the day and stand outside the Junior School gate as the boys departed for home, engaging with them, having fun with them, and checking on how their day had gone. Equally, the boys loved to see him there and enjoyed participating in banter with him, always respectful of his position but equally comfortable to share a joke with Mr Batty. Tom Batty has the wonderful ability to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome, and the boys loved this side of him. He possesses in abundance that wonderful quality called ‘the common touch’ and the boys love him all the more because of this. 10 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
While some school principals might feel it below them to get down and dirty with the younger boys, this was never the case with Tom. I recall vividly one occasion in 2020 during one period of remote learning, when Tom came up to visit the small number of boys who were learning at school due to parents being required workers. He dropped into the Prep rooms at a time when some of the boys were involved in a game of concentration with playing cards. Tom quickly joined in the game with one young lad and, having lost several times, suggested that he was being swindled by a five-year-old card shark! Tom was also happy to be the brunt of a joke, as evidenced by his willing participation in one of Mr McScience’s crazy experiments during one of the 2021 remote learning periods. Very few Principals would be happy to publicly ‘let down their guard’ in such a manner. Tom Savill: Can you describe any occasions which highlighted Mr Batty’s clear passion for the education of the whole student? Jon Abbott: The Junior School is always a very busy place, and most weeks there seems to be some sort of event taking place, whether that be in sports, music, drama, German or a myriad of other areas. Tom would be there to support the efforts of the boys. He and his wife Lee loved attending Junior School music concerts, and regularly took their place in the front row of the balcony of the Ian Roach Hall, loudly applauding the boys’ performances at the end of each and every concert. If Tom were to pass through the Junior School playgrounds where ball games were in action, he would often join in with the boys for a period, especially if the game involved a particular round ball that is close to his heart. The boys were always impressed with his dexterity with the skills of the ‘world game’. Tom Savill: Were there moments where Mr Batty had a direct opportunity to teach the Junior School boys and guide their learning? Jon Abbott: Junior School Assemblies take place each Monday, with all boys from Prep to Year 6 in attendance, and whenever Tom was able to attend one of the Assemblies, he would take opportunity to address the boys. His messages were always clear and simple for the boys to understand, and provided insight into his beliefs about what was truly important about being a young boy: enjoy life, find those things that bring you
joy and throw yourself into them, try your hardest and always treat others with kindness. These are the basic ideals by which Tom leads his own life, and form the guiding principles of his ethos about schools and education. Tom Savill: How did you benefit from your professional relationship with Mr Batty? Jon Abbott: Over my time as the Junior School Headmaster, I consider myself very fortunate to have worked so closely with Tom. Initially, I was in awe of him for his amazing intellect and strong sense of purpose. As our relationship developed and I got to know him better as a person as well as a leader, I came to greatly respect and admire Tom for his leadership style. He empowers others to try new ideas and have the courage to test out their visions; he has a firm belief in what boys need for an excellent education, and is driven to do all he can to provide it; and, most importantly, he is caring and compassionate whenever members of our School community are in need. Tom is always ready to provide whatever support he can offer when others are experiencing times of difficulty or sadness. Tom Savill: From your perspective, what legacy does Mr Batty leave once he finishes at Scotch? Jon Abbott: In all aspects of his leadership at Scotch, taking our School from being a very good school to becoming a truly great school, comparable with any across the globe, Tom has been determined, focused, extremely hard working and inspirational. The Scotch Junior School has benefited greatly from his influence and support during his Principalship, and the impact he has made will be evident for many years to come. We are all indebted to Tom Batty for all he has done over the past 15 years. Tom Savill: I have certainly felt very fortunate to have spent time working with, and learning from, Mr Batty. I have learnt of the many aspects of Scotch that have become richer for his influence. However, the lasting impact on me is his humanistic approach. He has a deep understanding of the community, a strong desire to support all within it, and the flexibility of academic and emotional intelligence to connect authentically with everyone. Oh … and he is a Brentford supporter. There aren’t many of us in Australia.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 11
JUNIOR SCHOOL
NEW JUNIOR SCHOOL STAFF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL WELCOMED FOUR NEW STAFF MEMBERS AT THE START OF THE 2022 SCHOOL YEAR.
ABOVE FROM LEFT: PAUL BARNES, SONIA LEWIS, SABINA FLEMMING. LEFT: JOSEPH TYNAN
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PAUL BARNES joins the Year 6 teaching team, having previously worked as a lead teacher and numeracy specialist at Anderson’s Creek Primary School in Warrandyte. He has also completed a five-year stint at Markham’s International College in Peru. Paul brings strong pedagogy, global perspectives and valuable leadership experience to the Junior School. SONIA LEWIS joins the Year 5 teaching team. Sonia completed a term of cover work in the Junior School last year, during which she quickly built positive and meaningful relationships with students and staff. Sonia is a passionate teacher and a proven educational leader, having formerly worked as Deputy Head of the Toorak Campus of Geelong Grammar School. SABINA FLEMMING joins the Learning Support team as a Learning Support Assistant. Sabina has worked in a similar role at Carey Baptist Grammar School for the last six years. She is a lifelong learner, and has subsequently developed a broad spectrum of skills which help support young minds in accessing the curriculum. JOSEPH TYNAN joins the Learning Support team as an Integration Aide. Joseph has supported a wide variety of individuals on a one-to-one basis in their pursuit to engage in new learning endeavours. He completed a Psychology degree as an undergraduate, and has successfully used his study and practical learning to develop a skillset that will be of great advantage to Junior School boys.
Interview:
KATHERINE PHILLIPS HEALTH SERVICES NURSE – JUNIOR SCHOOL On a day back in October 2012, I was handed a pile of envelopes to sort through. I was told some may be relevant, but none were addressed to me. The first envelope was a request for a position at Scotch in the Health Centre. The envelope had sat around for a few months. A position had not been advertised, but someone called Katherine was taking a chance. I was needing some casual hours filled, so I gave it a quick read, and the words grabbed my attention immediately. I gave Katherine a call, and it was as if I had offered her a winning lottery ticket. So that was the start of our story! Katherine joined our team, and she was a perfect fit. She has so much enthusiasm, nursing experience, and interest in wellbeing and counselling. Her first day on the job saw her manage a significant fracture and ambulance escort. Any injury, big or small, she approaches with professionalism. None of the Junior School students can remember a time without Katherine. She adds warmth and caring, laughter and friendship to all whom she comes across, often all at the same time. How lucky we are that she took a chance on us! Thank you, Katherine. KIM STEVENS
What do you like most about your job? This is a difficult question to answer, as there is much I love about being a school nurse. It is an honour to spend time with young people, as they are such amazing beings. I have so often marvelled at the display of resilience from Scotch boys and the way they look at the world, which can be so inspiring; although they can also be quite hilarious when testing boundaries. The challenge is working out who is trying to get out of something and who isn’t. Between the grazed knees, bumps, breaks and scratches, there are those I call ‘frequent flyers’ and to whom I also feel a sense of responsibility, because sometimes words can be hard to find for boys experiencing times of uncertainty. To role model care and empathy brings out such kindness and sincerity in our boys, and this is often displayed when they bring their friends in need to Junior First Aid. I do treasure seeing human nature at its most pure. What is the best advice you have ever received? Not so much advice, but certainly a quote that resonates: ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ – an African proverb. Scotch College and its wider community may be considered such a village, and one I feel very privileged to be considered a part of.
School can provide many challenges for all, including children, parents and teachers alike. The role of a school nurse is to support the health and wellbeing not only of our boys, but of the wider Scotch community. Together we work towards building the foundations for our future generations. The times I feel this most are when I go on camp with teachers and boys. This can be a very stressful time, especially for first time campers and their families. To extend the day-to-day support to teachers and reassure parents and boys in readiness for camp is something I feel very passionate about. Camps are wonderful and essential experiences for the boys; they empower – and gosh, they are so much fun! What has been your biggest challenge over your years at Scotch? I know I am not alone when I refer to the last two years as being some of the most challenging of all time. From the moment I was away in Canberra with the Year 6 boys back in March 2020, when this strange new virus was threatening us into our first lockdown, to today as we negotiate keeping everyone safe and at school, the challenges have been continuous. But I must say the sense of community is something to relish. The boys have shown such resilience, and parents and guardians have displayed such community mindedness as together we try and keep everyone safe. For that I feel very blessed and thankful. What advice would you give our students as they embark on life outside of Scotch? Well, once a Scotchie, always a Scotchie, as they say! No matter where the future takes you, treasure the memories, experiences and friends you made, and remember you were and always will be part of something very special. Many years from now, when you are no longer on staff, what is one of the Scotch memories you will reflect upon to warm your heart? I had the privilege of getting to know and care for so many little five-year-old boys, as they grew into fine young adults. I will reflect on the chats, the tears and the laughter we shared, with the hope that I had a positive effect on their development, but with the warmth of how much of a positive effect they had on me. www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 13
JUNIOR SCHOOL
A WARM WELCOME TO NEW YEAR 4 BOYS
During Term 1, the Year 4 boys completed a number of welcome, leadership and teamwork activities. New boys in Year 4 this year mixed happily and enthusiastically with the ‘Old boys’. Here are some of their experiences and observations. I learnt that being a good leader is to share the job around and not do everything. Tom stood out because he was very encouraging. When someone was doing well, he said, ‘Well done!’ or ‘Good try!’. Ryan was a good leader, too, because when we needed new ideas, he gave them. He was the Ideas Man. HAYDEN VO
‘Meteorites’ was the hardest challenge. With our group, we had to pick up a basketball with straps linked to a central circular strap. We completed it in about five minutes. Overall, we learnt so much about team-building. Hayden was a really good team player. He let people speak but also gave his ideas. TOM CAPLAN
First, we did a group challenge called ‘Obstacle Course’. We had to complete it with our eyes closed with a blindfold. We had
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YEAR 4 BOYS PARTICIPATING IN WELCOME, LEADERSHIP AND TEAMWORK ACTIVITIES
our teammates to direct us. We followed their voices to complete it. Next, we did ‘Floor Is Lava’. We had to cross the floor using blocks without falling into the ‘lava’. We had eight blocks. We had a strategy where we put the blocks facing forwards, which meant we used less blocks overall. Teamwork helped us achieve success. JAYDEN MILLIE
The ‘Obstacle Course’ was the first challenge. The aim was to crawl under a pole, dodge some lines, dodge some more poles, miss the spikes, crawl under some leaves, evade some more circles and finally touch the hand on the ground. It sounds simple, but it isn’t. It is not simple because we were actually blindfolded. CASPER BELL
Yesterday my class headed to the gym for a team building incursion. We all sat down in the middle of the gym. The different challenges were explained to us. The first was Islands. We had to pretend the floor was made of lava. The next challenge was an obstacle course. We had to make our way through danger and corners, and crawl under a pole. As we were blindfolded, we had to follow another person’s voice who was giving instructions. The
third challenge was ‘Meteorites’. Our team had to hold a rope from different ends and in the middle of the rope was a circle. Overall, it was a day filled with positive and successful experiences. We even had some fun. KIRAN BIEN
Recently, our class had an incursion focusing on team building. We were in the gym and had to complete four challenges as a team. The first challenge was the Obstacle Course. We had to complete the course blindfolded and we had to follow the voices of our teammates. It was very difficult but also really, really fun! We also did the ‘Meteorites’ challenge, ‘Blaze Pods’, ‘Spikeball’ and ‘Islands’. We played ‘Spikeball’ where we had to bounce a ball on the trampoline. The fourth challenge was ‘Islands’ where we had to create a bridge to the other side of the area, so the team could move from one side to the other without touching the ground. In conclusion, the obstacle course was great fun, but very hard. We had a great time doing it. The ‘Meteorites’ team building activity was also insanely tricky, but somehow, with skill and teamwork, we made it. NICHOLAS VALMORBIDA
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
MS KATRINA STALKER HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
A SENSE OF JOY AS AN UNINTERRUPTED YEAR UNFOLDS
NEW YEAR, NEW HOPE YEAR 7 BOYS AT CAMP
A new year brought new hope, with just cause, for a year without interruption to the teaching and learning and to our extracurricular programs. Establishing routine and maintaining social etiquette and kindness among the Middle School students was a priority. The year started with a sense of calm in the main Quadrangle. With the Upper School students gaining their new House Home rooms, the Quad was owned by the Middle School boys, and peace reigned – at least until the Year 7 boys returned from camp. There they had gained new friends and a sense of confidence which they brought back with them. A slight rise in decibels around the locker area was one of the results of this new sense of belonging. From the start of the year there has been a sense of joy in the School; the boys are grateful to have returned to campus and are ready to embrace all the opportunities before them. The Year 8 boys settled back well, enjoying a Dodgeball competition organised by the Middle School Prefects. They also reflected on the Big Idea of Slavery, a lecture delivered by our Head of History, Dr Mark Johnston, who touched on aspects of the slave trade from Africa, involving England and the Americas and the connection to modern life. The Peer Leaders (Year 11 students) led the discussion with the Year 8s reflecting on human rights and current issues of slavery in different parts of the world. More lectures will occur during the year to encourage the Year 8s to broaden their outlook. This is the fourth year since the restructure of the Middle School, and the physical transformation of the spaces is complete. The calmness within the Quad is one indicator of the success of the restructure. We will always be working on further improvements, but this system works well and is providing good guidance and
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care for the boys, and leadership opportunities for the Form Teachers. The guidance was particularly evident over the last two years when learning took place online, and the Form Teachers were able to transfer their excellent pastoral care work to the online format. There was innovation and a great deal of intuition in dealing with the students in their care. Tom Batty encouraged the restructure. He could see the potential and the benefits of this new model and provided thoughtful critique and support for my work, and that of my colleagues in moulding the Middle School to its current position. Tom has encouraged the boys to find their passions and gain confidence. This has filtered through to the Middle School team. Whether it’s in the lively discussions around the Form Teacher meetings, when new ideas are put forward and the ideas thrashed out among the team, or during a Middle School Assembly, Tom’s guiding hand and thought-provoking questioning have brought a different prospective. I have been fortunate to have had Tom’s support in attending courses to improve my leadership qualities, both as a Head of House and as the Head of Middle School, relating to the growth of Scotch boys. The National Emerging Leaders Program gave me foundations and skills on which to grow my leadership, which Tom fully supported, not by just approving my application and granting me the opportunity to attend, but also by valuing my opinions and in building on my confidence, as he listened and considered the merits of my plans for the Middle School. Tom has been instrumental in developing the Middle School, and I feel it a personal privilege to have worked with him and learnt from him over the past 13 years.
UPPER SCHOOL
MR TIM RAYNER HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
OPPORTUNITIES APLENTY AS WE JOYFULLY RETURN TO NORMAL ENTHUSIASM AND POSITIVITY IN ABUNDANCE AS THE YEAR UNFOLDS Welcome back! If I could have bottled and sold the enthusiasm and positivity experienced during the first week of school this year, I would be a very rich man. I don’t remember a start to the year quite like the one we have had, and I hope this feeling continues. Our new House spaces, for Eggleston, Field, Fleming and Littlejohn are splendid additions to the School and now complete the suite of rooms for all boys in Years 9 to 12 who look out onto Scotch Square. The significance of these spaces cannot be understated. Standing with Ms Verity Scott, Head of Eggleston House, outside the Eggleston House Home Room one lunchtime, we viewed a group of boys playing chess, another group doing school work, another group standing and having lunch, while others were chatting. Ms Scott took a photograph, such was our delight in seeing how well it had worked out. The Principal’s vision of having a Home Room for each boy had finally come to pass. For Heads of Houses, the opportunity to have their group together in one place is very welcome. Scotch Square is seeing a burst of life, and the vibrancy of the Upper School has shifted west. This will lead to the space being used more for musical events and other activities. It also connects us a little more with the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science. The Quad is now a quieter place, with the Middle School boys no longer having to squeeze through between the lockers and the giant-like Year 11 and 12 boys. Indeed, many lockers have been removed and spacious corridors make the place much more attractive. Seeing Mr Stuart Powell hurrying around the School, going from one sports practice to another, waving to boys and parents, was another welcome scene. A full sports program has commenced and weekly training sessions and Saturday morning fixtures are now cemented into the program. The Friday twenty20 cricket matches against APS teams have
BOYS IN THEIR OWN HOME ROOMS
proven very popular with the boys as a spectator event, and are a good way to finish off the school day. Perhaps not surprisingly, pre-season training is also occurring for some winter sports – no doubt an indication of just how keen some of the boys are to win those games and get involved. Another positive step is that we are working on ensuring that camps and trips take place this year. Already we have had a number of excursions; the History Department has been running group trips to the Jewish Holocaust Centre in Melbourne for Year 10. Camps and hikes for some Year 9 and 10 boys will be occurring towards the end of Term 3. Year 11 Immersion experiences will occur at the end of Term 3, with boys visiting various charities and social justice centres over that time. Significantly, an Art trip to Italy is planned for this September, which will mark our first international foray for several years. How we have missed such opportunities! The School is also starting to contact schools overseas with the aim of re-establishing the exchange program. Dr Scarlet Luk has been appointed the coordinator of this program, and she is very keen to engage new partners who offer different educational experiences to those found in Melbourne. This is one of the final pieces of the return to normal jigsaw, and I feel that once these international links are forged, we will be able to offer a very broad range of educational experiences to boys in Years 10 and 11 come 2023. www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 17
FEATURES
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2021 As it is each year, only individual students and families can set accomplishment to circumstance. Only they truly know how talent and effort have married with opportunity amidst the slings and arrows. After two years of uncertainty punctuated with separation and restriction, this assumes particular resonance. We have all had time to ponder and set achievements such as those we now celebrate in broader context. Such reflection forms habits that linger longer 18 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
than test results; habits that give purpose to stride when stepping through the doors pushed open by examination scores. In such spirit we celebrate this fine accomplishment across the rich canvas of our non-selective entry. The details below summarise results, but no tabulation, time sequenced or otherwise, could attempt to capture the individual quirks and contributions of the Class of 2021. Such intrinsic qualities need to be experienced first-hand.
Future paths will be as rich and varied as the personalities and talents of those now stepping out charged to challenge, support and do their bit. The wit, vitality and love of many are invested in such cause. My thanks and congratulations go to all involved: boys, members of staff and parents. To the Class of 2021: your unity, virtuosity and good-humoured conversation will be dearly missed. Through testing times, your purpose,
LEFT TO RIGHT: MR TOM BATTY, MR GEOFFREY WEMYSS, JASON CHI, ANDRES BURITICA MONROY, WILLIAM MCCANN, MAX FAN, RYAN AHL, RICHARD LIU, MS AMY CHRISTENSEN, MR JAMES KEARNEY
WITH ADMIRATION AND RESPECT, THE CONGRATULATIONS OF ALL IN THE SCOTCH COMMUNITY GO TO THE REMARKABLE YOUNG MEN OF THE CLASS OF 2021 FOR SUCH IMPRESSIVE VCE AND ATAR RESULTS. good grace and communal responsibility continued to see you flourish. Perhaps most importantly, your awareness of, respect for, and desire to embrace difference, both within and beyond, inspired optimism for the future. It was a privilege to share something of your experience. In thanking you for all you have given to your School, we look forward to welcoming you back to learn of those you have met and what you make of it all.
2021 VCE AND ATAR SUCCESS
Seven boys: Ryan Ahl, Andres Buritica Monroy, Roy Chalmers, Jason Chi, Max Fan, Richard Liu and William McCann received an ATAR of 99.95, and are, therefore, the Duces of Scotch College for 2021 Nine boys (3.8 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 99.90 or more (top 0.1 per cent in the population) 20 boys (8.5 per cent of the cohort)
obtained an ATAR of 99.50 or more (top 0.5 per cent in the population) 30 boys (12.8 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 99 or more (top 1 per cent in the population) 50 boys (21.4 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 98 or more (top 2 per cent in the population) 74 boys (31.6 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 95 or more (top 5 per cent in the population) 110 boys (47.0 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 90 or more (top 10 per cent in the population) 164 boys (70.1 per cent of the cohort) obtained an ATAR of 80 or more (top 20 per cent in the population) The median ATAR was 88.85. Early measures of ‘value add’, comparing ability testing data from earlier years and ATAR scores, show the highest average growth recorded since we started such measurement in 2012, and indicate an exceptionally strong performance from this cohort. (Note: the population referred to in the ATAR statistics above is the population of the statewide Year 7 cohort from 2016, including those students who moved or left school before Year 12.) There were 19 ‘perfect’ scores of 50 across 10 subjects. Eight Year 12 boys obtained scores of 50, including Ryan Ahl (Economics and Specialist Mathematics), Andres Buritica Monroy (Physics and Specialist Mathematics), Max Fan (English), Xavier Joyce (Business Management) and Michael Ojaimi (Physics). Seven Year 11 boys obtained scores of 50, including Aaron Do (Mathematical Methods), Tom He (Mathematical Methods), Liam Kenneally (Psychology), Tommy Le (Mathematical Methods), Alexander Ludovici (Mathematical Methods), David Lumsden (Mathematical Methods) and Brendan Zhang (Physics). One Year 7 boy obtained a score of 50: William Cheah (Specialist Mathematics). TOM BATTY – PRINCIPAL
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FEATURES
FAREWELL, TOM BATTY REFLECTIONS ON THE BATTY ERA FROM STAFF AND BOYS This edition of Great Scot is the final one of Tom Batty’s 14 years as Principal of Scotch College. Some staff, current and retired, and some Young Old Boys were approached to reflect on the Tom Batty era as they saw it. Their reflections appear on these pages.
STAFF AND FORMER STAFF MEMBERS’ REFLECTIONS Working closely with Tom Batty during his years as Principal has been a privilege and a pleasure, and has provided opportunity to experience and appreciate first hand his wisdom, his wit and his knowledge of, and commitment to, boys’ education. His understanding of what makes boys ‘tick’ makes him equally comfortable interacting with a boy in Prep just starting his Scotch journey, or a Year 12 boy contemplating life after Scotch. During his time at Scotch, Tom has improved the educational and other opportunities of the School. Strong in his view that boys learn best when they are known and valued, Tom has encouraged boys to look beyond the gates, to find passions, to ‘get good at stuff’, to challenge
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those things that need challenging and support those things that need supporting. All this has been done while recognising and celebrating the inherent dignity of each individual. Along the way, structural changes to the School have been made and buildings constructed to enable his vision to be realised. In particular, the removal of Heads of Year and the strengthening of the House system, a change that occurred very early in Tom’s tenure, has meant that boys are now better known, better cared for and have a stronger sense of belonging. State-of-the-art buildings, such as the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science, the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall and St Andrew’s Square, the new English Department, and other buildings have not only provided a home for staff, but have created spaces and opportunities allowing those collisions among and between staff and boys that are an integral part of the educational process to take place. Over his time at the helm, Tom has taken the School on a transformative journey, enhancing its reputation both nationally and internationally, making it a
safer, softer, and more intimate place, and providing opportunities and experiences for the boys that will enable them to be global citizens of the 21st century. Tom has, through hard work and commitment to the cause, ‘done his bit’ and then some. ROBERT MCLAREN – VICE PRINCIPAL
Whether it was by wandering the grounds at lunchtime, being close to the action around the tuckshop at recess, in Morrison Street as the school day ended, or at sporting contests on weekends, Tom could be seen in animated conversation with boys. Encouraging challenge, questioning and a consideration of values was often a part of those conversations, as was how well his and their favourite sporting teams had performed the previous weekend. Tom’s passion for education put the boys front and centre, and in determining what was most important in any decision-making, it was clear their interests were paramount. Tom’s wish to ensure each boy could find, develop and follow his passions led him to encourage a real knowledge of each boy among those with whom he
came into contact. Thus those animated conversations were encouraged in the classroom, the form or House group, and during all other activities which found staff and boys working alongside each other. It was a most personable approach and great humour that characterised Tom’s interactions, be it with a young boy on his first day at the School, a new boarder, a member of staff or with educational leaders across the globe. IAN SAVAGE – VICE PRINCIPAL, 1995-2013
Tom Batty arrived at Scotch in July 2008 to commence his appointment as Principal. He arrived full of energy and ideas. During his 14 years as Principal he has remained enthusiastic, focused and determined that each day would provide opportunities to enhance the ability of this School to provide a rich and rewarding educational experience for each boy. His mantra to the boys is to ‘challenge the things that need challenging and support the things that need supporting’. In his work as Principal, Tom Batty exemplifies this principle. He supports those traditions that richly enhance the
Scotch experience, but he also challenges and changes those things that need to be challenged and changed. As Principal, he sees the School through the eyes of the boys: their classroom experiences, their joys and disappointments on the sports field and their lived experiences as boys living in an increasingly complex world. His background as a teacher of Mathematics, as a sports coach and as a boarding house master, gave him the hands-on experiences to be totally at ease in his interpersonal relationships; it is clear that he enjoys his daily interactions with the boys and with the staff. Tom Batty’s legacy of 14 years of hard work, insightful vision and dedicated service as Principal of Scotch College is apparent in the continued improvement of the physical environment, and in the enhancement of respect and safety for all. The School has been enriched by his passion for education and teaching, and his determination to make each day count as a blessing to be nurtured. STEPHEN KONG – DEAN OF SCHOOL OPERATIONS
Since arriving at Scotch, Tom’s focus has been about making the School the best it can be for the boys. He has challenged teachers to think about how they might better engage with the boys, and in his time facilities have been developed which provide greater opportunities for interactions between teachers and boys. At the start of each school day one is likely to find Tom out in Morrison Street and about the school grounds, welcoming boys. He is also prone to popping into a class to see what is being taught and to have a chat with the boys. Tom has encouraged Scotch boys to be involved in all aspects of the School, but also to think, to consider questions and be involved in matters of importance to the broader community. He is a true schoolmaster with a keen interest in people and education. BRIAN WOOLACOTT – DEAN OF STUDIES
Moving from Eton College, a school that is progressive as well as steeped in history, with high levels of academic rigour and a solid understanding of boys’ education, Tom had much to offer as he touched down in Melbourne and made
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FEATURES
his way to Morrison Street. He took time to understand the School, as it was, and then considered how it could be improved, thinking particularly about what was best for the boys. A strong leader who has not been afraid to take a stance on issues, Tom has spent time thinking about implications – both at the micro and macro level. He has welcomed other points of view and has been keen to consider other stakeholders in decision-making. Tom’s messages at school Assemblies have ignited boys’ minds to consider their place in the world and provoked them to form opinions on current affairs or social trends. Questions or poems have opened the conversation, which boys have been able to consider, and some have continued through Tom’s open-door policy before school in the mornings. Under his tenure, the boys have become more considerate, broader minded, and overall the School has become a kinder, happier place. DAVID BROWN, DEAN OF STUDENTS
Tom’s legacy is, to my mind, grounded fundamentally in his ability as a teacher. His leadership strengths; namely, his
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capacity to distil complex, often conflicting inputs to the crux, his inclination for seeing beauty in the ordinary, and his almost pathological unwillingness to ‘level reduce’, to gloss over the important and the difficult, are also the hallmarks of any master of our craft. Tom has fostered learning relationships that allow all of us (boys and staff) to question, to debate, and to see rules and conventions as servant not master. His approach conjures this thought from eminent Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge, and former Eton Master, A. C. Benson: ‘I am sure it is one's duty as a teacher to try to show boys that no opinions, no tastes, no emotions are worth much unless they are one's own.’ By giving boys a voice in their school, Tom has given them a voice in their world. PETER COUTIS – DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH, TEACHING AND LEARNING
In 1997 my family and I set off on a year’s exchange teaching at Eton College – an unforgettable year, but not without its bewilderments. Very few schools are like Eton; the need for a friend and guide there was a high priority. Fortunately there
was an Australian couple on the staff who understood exactly what we were going through – Tom and Lee Batty – who swiftly became valued friends. We kept in touch and I was delighted when Council had the great good sense to appoint him Principal at Scotch. Tom brought with him a robust yet friendly focus on individual students, injecting into the School an enhanced pastoral concern with his reshaping of the House system. At the same time he strengthened staff accountability for engaging student learning. I am not sure we were always quite comfortable with this – no bad thing in a good school. But it will be his gift of generous friendship that I will remember. SYD BOYDELL – FORMER DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH, TEACHING AND LEARNING; SCOTCH STAFF 1976-2011
Tom’s chief characteristic as Principal is that he puts the interests of the boys at the centre of all that he does. Tom’s ability to know the boys is also obvious, and this is clearly evident on a Saturday morning, as he attends fixtures of boys in all year levels
in a range of sports. His engaging chats about boys’ performances and experiences in their games cannot be undervalued, and I know it is appreciated by so many in our community. It is not uncommon to see our Principal joining in a game of downball at lunchtime or sharing a kick of the round ball with them. I think it says a great deal about Tom’s desire to build rapport and relationships with the boys. His commitment to the boys has been inspiring, and as he departs Scotch he can be assured he has made a difference to many in his care. STUART POWELL – DIRECTOR OF SPORT
The hands-on style of our Principal, Mr Tom Batty, will be sadly missed among the Grounds team. I recall on a number of occasions, particularly during cricket season, it felt as though we had an additional staff member ‘on standby’ to lend a helping hand with the cricket covers when rain threatened to interrupt play on the Main Oval. Clearly an athlete in his younger days, Tom would often stride out to the middle of the Main Oval to assist our Grounds
staff to ensure the turf wicket was kept dry as the gloomy dark black clouds would begin to build from the west. Coincidence or not, Tom’s well-timed appearance usually occurred during the Scotch 1st XI batting innings, reinforcing that the home ground advantage is still alive in the APS competition. Well, it is at Scotch! We thank Tom for his support.
of Carol Ann Duffy, and as he calls it ‘the great game!). ‘What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others’ – Pericles 495-429BC
MICK SMITH – CURATOR, AND THE GROUNDS TEAM
Tom’s educational philosophy has always demonstrated that a boy’s personal and social development beyond the classroom stands parallel in importance to his academic development. Just as an involved parent would want to do, Tom has attended major and minor school events in rain and shine to secure in each boy a faith that one’s best effort is all that can be expected. After every school play that I directed, Tom came backstage and shared his enthusiasm for the night’s performance with individual members of the cast and crew. He attended every 24-Hour Hike wearing his trademark shorts to walk the first evening loop with Year 9 boys, only to drive back to Melbourne some hours later, ready for a new school day.
There is no doubt from the moment Tom arrived at Scotch that he was not going to be a simple figurehead. He wanted to be in the game, among the boys, the parents, and the staff. Rarely a day passes where Tom is not found treading the path of Morrison Street as he welcomes and farewells boys, or perhaps drops into a classroom or sports ground, unannounced, to see what is happening. Tom has a clear vision for the School which he intends to live out, not just speak out – for passionate, relational teachers; engaged boys with open minds; spaces that remove barriers between teachers and students; and many more (including, hopefully, a love for the poetry
CAM CUTCHIE – HEAD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION; PRESIDENT, COMMON ROOM ASSOCIATION
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FEATURES
Tom’s whimsical side has always been evident in his day-to-day work. It would not be unusual for him to appear suddenly in front of my desk in the Admissions Office, late in any day, poem in hand. While the initial discussion might meander along paths of meaning and intent, it would quickly move on to the broader plains of life, philosophy and personal reminiscence. Tom is a man who cares deeply about people: he has led the School for 14 remarkable years with his heart to the fore, skilfully entwining this with trademark wisdom, compassion and humanity. STEPHEN RITCHIE – FORMER DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS, FORMER PRESIDENT, COMMON ROOM ASSOCIATION
Tom Batty has created an enduring legacy at Scotch College. New buildings for science, design and technology, student dining and archives constitute lasting testimony to his progressive approach to education. At least as important are his contributions to the students who have passed through the School under his leadership.
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Tom has been a most compassionate headmaster. He has purposely created spaces where teachers and students can interact, and those interactions are central to his educational philosophy of developing relational learning and appropriate intimacy between teachers and the boys in their care. He has a kind word for all, and is especially fond of the quirky, challenged and challenging students. Tom has also been a very generous leader of the staff, for whom he has been a staunch advocate. He has given leadership opportunities to a high proportion of the staff, including the many remarkable women who have achieved positions of leadership in a merit-based system. Moreover, he is always sympathetic and sensitive to the concerns of parents. All who have worked closely with Tom will remember him as a leader with a fine work ethic, who paid careful attention to small details and was willing to listen to other opinions. From the outset he has been a Principal of vision. His initiatives and programs are a base upon which future leaders will build. DR MARK JOHNSTON – HEAD OF HISTORY
I first saw Tom from the old transit flat, as he wandered up the hill. I was tired and jetlagged, having just flown in from Scotland for the continuation of my interview for the position of Chaplain. Any worries about working for this particular Englishman were immediately put to rest, as Tom entered into an animated conversation with Jorge Gariglio (the gardener), probably about the fortunes of their beloved football teams, Brentford and River Plate. This small episode clearly demonstrated Tom’s good sense of humour and his deep interest in other people. Over the years, I have come to appreciate his commitment to the wellbeing of the boys and the staff, and his wise counsel. He has even taken a passing interest in the ongoing dramas at Heart of Midlothian FC, if only to make fun of his Chaplain. DOUG CAMPBELL – CHAPLAIN
Tom’s clear and unwavering vision for what makes an outstanding education, combined with his commitment to ensuring that the students of Scotch College enjoy such an education, has been
a constant inspiration to me and no doubt to many others. The ways in which Tom engages students, parents and staff in contemplating and reflecting upon these things lays the foundation for continual improvement and development across all facets of the College, and there is no question that all this is done with the very best interests of the students ever-present in his mind. Tom is a leader who relishes being among the school community, engaging with all those he encounters, and in so doing has really set the tone for the College as being a warm, welcoming and supportive place to learn.
KRISTY IRWIN, CHIEF OF STAFF
Tom is a master communicator: both verbally and with the written word he has consistently demonstrated an impressive capacity to convey information with clarity and purpose. His ability to engage any audience, be it a group of Junior School boys, a cohort of older boys, the teaching or non-teaching staff of the School,
parents, Old Boys or Council members, has been apparent throughout his tenure. Tom’s ability to connect readily with people of different age, background or standing has been a great strength, and has enabled him to be a Principal who has been approachable, understanding, empathetic and available for all the varied constituents of the Scotch community. Tom has demonstrated throughout his time at Scotch that he is a leader with vision, and the drive to make vision a reality for the betterment of every boy. His desire to empower, encourage and acknowledge the contribution of others in this endeavour has generated a sense of shared purpose and mutual respect, resulting in a school where each boy and member of staff is known and valued. GRANT WATSON – FORMER CHIEF OF STAFF (2009-21); SCOTCH STAFF 2000-21
T O M
Teacher to all, first and foremost Optimistic about the future, an endearing outlook to toast Married to Lee – his support and inspiration
B A T T Y
Brentford – his mighty Bees – perhaps his greatest damnation Australia – his second home; and always welcome back To the ‘Old Dart’, where he returns, and his favourite Union Jack Thank you Tom for all that you have done You have served Scotch well, and I hope you’ve had fun!
TIM SHEARER – DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, SCOTCH FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
YOUNG OLD BOYS’ REFLECTIONS One of the first questions Mr Batty asked me was a maths problem in a scholarship interview. I got it wrong, so I was lucky I still got in … It inspired me to work harder on my maths, though! I am forever grateful for the opportunity Mr Batty gave me to attend Scotch, and his advice and support in the years since. His reflections at Assemblies and book recommendations – I still have the copy he gave me of John Steinbeck’s The Pearl – always made me
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think more deeply about the issues we face and our place within the world around us. Mr Batty has been the most approachable, kind-hearted and perceptive Principal I could have asked for – and with a great sense of humour to boot. SORIN ZOTA – CLASS OF 2013
Eight years on from my Scotch years, my most enduring memories of Mr Batty centre around his approachable, gregarious spirit. It is rare to find a principal who genuinely cares about his school and students as much as Mr Batty, who attended every major Scotch event, remembered his students by name, and even frequently found time to engage in some friendly competition with the younger boys on the two-square courts! As busy as a principal is, he was never too busy to forget to leave his door open to his students every morning. His generosity of character and championship of lifelong learning is embodied in the literary classics from his collection, which to this day remain on my bookshelf. Mr Batty was a central role model figure during my formative years at Scotch, to so many
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other boys like me. Thank you for your mentorship, support, and so much more. DANIEL LIU – CLASS OF 2014
Always encouraging, inclusive and enthusiastic, Mr Batty had such a significant impact on my years at Scotch College. As an Editor of Collegian, I regularly met with Mr Batty and greatly appreciated his valuable insights. He was welcoming and very willing to discuss ideas for the School’s annual publication. Looking back, I remember Mr Batty’s many inspiring speeches during Assemblies in Memorial Hall and his thoughtful day-to-day conversations with us all. Mr Batty often spoke about the importance of seeing the world and broadening our horizons. I had opportunities at Scotch to travel both interstate and overseas. In particular, I am forever grateful to Mr Batty for establishing the exchange with Eton College. It was a highlight for me in Year 11 and a truly amazing experience. Through this exchange, I made wonderful, lasting friendships. CONNOR MISCAMBLE – CLASS OF 2015
Mr Batty has had such a compelling vision for the School in his time as Principal. With a very strong set of values, he worked hard and achieved so much. Above all else, he is very personable – a trait which should never be undervalued in his role. Thank you, Mr Batty – you have left the School a much better place and influenced many boys for the better, including myself. You will be missed. THOMAS ANDERSON – CLASS OF 2015
Education can be highly theoretical; dealing with hypotheticals and fabricated scenarios designed to teach and hone skills. Mr Batty emphasises the role that Scotch has to play in developing its students into good people, providing practical soft skills required to become valuable and considerate members of the community. There is significance placed on developing strong personal values and morals as much as academic skills. He is extremely passionate about challenging you in an effort to ensure you develop your own ideas and opinions, and are not simply following the crowd.
One of Mr Batty’s greatest attributes is his ability to communicate and connect with a range of people – with students, staff and parents – to all of which he gives full attention and leaves his audience feeling engaged and valued. My Grandad came to watch me play my first cricket game at the beginning of Year 7. He sat alone on his camp chair tucked against the hedges on the far side of the McKendrick Oval. After chatting to the parents under the pavilion, Mr Batty made the effort to walk the perimeter of the oval to introduce himself to Grandad, and proceeded to spend the next half-hour discussing the intricacies of estuary fishing and gas fridge mechanics. This talks to Mr Batty’s character and displays the care which he has always had for the School and its broader community – making everyone feel a part of the Scotch family. CHARLIE SCHILLING – CLASS OF 2018
I first became friends with Mr Batty in Year 8 – after mentioning that I was a fanatic for a rather unpopular English soccer team, Aston Villa. The following season, Aston Villa got relegated to the
Championship, where Villa would face off against Mr Batty’s team, Brentford. From that day, a friendly rivalry was formed. Unfortunately for me, Brentford seemed to be Aston Villa’s kryptonite. Despite being one of the best teams in the league, Villa could not seem to beat Brentford. (To this day I have yet to celebrate an Aston Villa victory over the Bees.) In pure Mr Batty style, he made sure to make it known to not only myself, but to everyone he could, that Brentford had beaten Aston Villa. I recall being singled out at Mem Hall in front of the whole School, and likewise remember Mr Batty knocking on the door of my English class – stopping the whole class, just to celebrate Brentford’s success over Villa. This friendly rivalry, which has continued long since graduating, encompasses why Mr Batty was so influential in not only my school life, but in the lives of many Scotchies. He makes students feel valued and will find a way to make you feel unique and special. Despite his busy schedule, he makes time for
everyone – no one is more important than anyone else. JOSH ALLEN – CLASS OF 2019
I first met Mr Batty down at the banks of the Yarra River in 2013. My first impressions of him were that he was a joyful and sincere man who was always up for a laugh. I knew I would be in good hands when I would be starting at the School a year later. During my time at Scotch, I was always amazed that no matter what, Mr Batty made the effort to attend school events. Regardless if it was Year 7 football, a concert or a play, he was there watching and supporting the boys. When I was a member of the 1st VIII in 2017, Mr Batty was there, cheering us on to victory at the Henley Royal Regatta. It was special to share the moment with him and it is something that I will never forget. I have great respect for him and how he has led the School throughout his 14 years as headmaster. He has left an indelible mark on the Scotch community and one I’m sure everyone will miss. I will certainly miss his thought-provoking, closing
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remarks at the end of Memorial Hall Assemblies as well as the famous Batty hugs! I wish him well in the next chapter in his life. MARCUS EMMETT – CLASS OF 2019
Thank you, Mr Batty, for my wonderful time at Scotch College. We met every few weeks to discuss concepts for the Collegian, when I was Editor, and I very much appreciated your enthusiasm and commitment to the publication. You always showed great interest in my sporting endeavours as well. I especially remember your visits in the tinny on the Yarra during afternoon training sessions with Mr Woodruff. Your support for our crew was amazing, whether it was on the banks of the Yarra, at Nagambie for the Head of the River, or at the Henley Royal Regatta for our campaign in the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup. Fantastic memories I will forever treasure. FRASER MISCAMBLE – CLASS OF 2019
At the core of every outstanding school is an outstanding principal. A principal who lights the flame of a school’s spirit,
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and audaciously steers its course towards the unknown. Having sat in Memorial Hall countless times, I’m still awestruck by Mr Batty’s mesmerising skills as an orator; his remarkable ability to speak and make others not only listen, but ponder his every word, from world issues to Carol Ann Duffy poems. For Mr Batty, it wasn’t about having all the answers, but rather asking all the right questions. I recall mentoring sessions with Mr Batty where we discussed topics from politics to my future career, and the breadth of experience he shared has shaped many of the decisions that I’ve made. Perhaps most striking about Mr Batty is his genuine nature, with his gracious greetings from his terrace and throughout the grounds, full of warmth, assuring that there was never any distance between him and the students. I wish Mr Batty all the best with his return to the UK, and thank him greatly for all he did for the boys of Scotch College. RION AHL – CLASS OF 2020
In my first conversation with Mr Batty, he asked me what the square root of 25
was. I answered five, nonchalantly. He responded, ‘What about negative five?’ That was the beginning of countless times he stimulated me during my time at Scotch. I was constantly challenged and extended, both in the classroom and in various extracurricular activities. Without Mr Batty's encouragement and enthusiasm in promoting learning, I would not have had the opportunity to learn how to play chess, practise debating or start learning how to code, and neither would many other boys. Mr Batty was also the epitome of support for boys at Scotch. In the sweltering temperatures of the summer sport season, I would see him race down to the oval, eager to cheer on the boys, especially for cricket. I was very involved in music, and needless to say that Mr Batty was at every concert the Music School held, encouraging the boys in performance. Always happy to give up his time for boys, Mr Batty put the boys and the School first, and this was his most admirable characteristic. His ability to both challenge and support boys will impart a lasting legacy at Scotch. SAM ZONG – CLASS OF 2020
I fondly remember Mr Batty taking maths classes one year. The purpose of these classes was to see past curriculum maths and appreciate the beauty of the field in general. As the great maths meister himself, Mr Batty elegantly achieved this goal. I specifically recall him teaching us a method of factorising cubic equations, not by long division, which was typically more robotic and generic, but by understanding the factors’ subtle interactions with one another and how each contributes to a final product – a much more nuanced approach. It was this lesson and many life lessons over the years, to look past the established order and to see the beauty of breaking boundaries and being bolder – that will be the legacy of Mr Batty. JASON CHAN – CLASS OF 2020
During an orientation visit to Scotch in 2015 I happened to pass Mr Batty in the hallways of the Randall Building. Although at the time being taken aback by the casual and welcoming conversation that followed – certainly not what I had expected from the Scotch Principal – I came to appreciate these small interactions
with Mr Batty. From the sides of sporting fields to the bench on Morrison Street, Mr Batty could always be found with students, being more than a teacher but a friendly mentor. For me it was these meaningful discussions on topics from sport to literature to politics that I will always fondly remember about Mr Batty. ALEX MEGGITT – CLASS OF 2021
Having boarded at Scotch I feel fortunate to have seen a side of Mr Batty that many day students don’t – that being his remarkable presence on, and love for, the Hill. Mr Batty made us feel that the Hill community is the heart of Scotch. He lived on the Hill with us and was involved in all that we did. From sharing meals with the boys, to attending Chapel, to participating in Wedderburn as a soccer referee, Mr Batty was always there. Being present and engaged with the Hill boys was a trait that endeared him to so many. He knew every boy by name and made time to get to know each and every one personally. The Hill won’t be the same without him.
We are very lucky to have had a role model like Mr Batty – a man of firm principles who always cares for others. He has a meaningful vision, but he also cares about the details. He understands the pattern and the logic behind the world, but he is also creative, innovative, and pure-hearted. When we find ourselves in a position to influence positive change and make the world a better place, we will have definitely carried part of Mr Batty’s inspiration, influence and belief in reaching that point. OSWALD LI – CLASS OF 2016 AND ALEXANDER LI – CLASS OF 2021
JAMES MEGGITT – CLASS OF 2021
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SCHOOL CAPTAIN
‘SCOTCH OFFERS US THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE EXTRAORDINARY’ THESE ARE EXTRACTS OF SCHOOL CAPTAIN TOMMY LIVADARAS’ AND VICE CAPTAIN LEON FEI’S ADDRESSES TO THE SCHOOL EARLY IN TERM 1. 30 Great Scot
I will take you back to Saturday 8 May, 2021. Melbourne Grammar’s home pitch. The weather is mild, but stakes are high. Sweat is pouring down the foreheads of Scotch boys as they stand strong to defend their try line. The sound of cheering Scotch families and friends reverberates through the campus of our archrivals. The groans of the scrum grow louder each second as we push Grammar back, metre by metre, until the final whistle blows and we are rewarded with the sweet taste of victory, as the 1st Rugby team claims back the perpetual Colin Bell Rugby Cup, after seven years. It was this moment as I stood chanting with my fellow Scotch brothers in arms that I truly realised Scotch College is so much more than an institution built for education, but rather a home that will support, nurture and develop boys, in a way that extends beyond the school gates. It’s very easy to go through school doing the bare minimum and just going through the motions. What’s harder is being able to step outside of what feels comfortable in order to discover your true potential. By doing this you will find your true passion and calling. Scotch allows each student the opportunity to be the best version of himself, while developing world-ready attributes such as integrity, respect and empathy, to name a few. This is the reason I am so proud to be a Scotchie, and why I believe that Scotch enables students to be better human beings and better members of society. I remember reading this quote: ‘Touch the edges of your comfort zone on a regular basis; it will help you realise what you are capable of'. The range of opportunities offered to us is immense. I would like to stress this message to all you boys, whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or nearing the end of your time at Scotch: take on as many opportunities as you can of the challenges and extracurricular activities that the School offers you. There are so many facets of this School, that no matter who you are and what your interests are, you will find a family here at Scotch. For me, it happened to be rugby, but it will be different for each and every one of you. So, go out and try different things so that you may find your place and experience in being an integral part of the Scotch community. Push outside of your comfort zone and see what you are capable of. Boys, let’s not settle for ordinary. Scotch offers us the opportunity to be extraordinary. Let’s use the incredible facilities, embrace the diversity of those around us, and get involved! Look back on your Scotch journey with no regrets, and most importantly have fun and enjoy the year ahead! Feel free to come up to me at any time for a chat, and let’s work together to make every Scotch boy’s journey unforgettable.
TAKING YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE On behalf of our Prefects, School Officers, the student body and the staff, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this amazing school and to the exciting year ahead of us. The Scotch College community has a wide reach with extensive traditions, and it can seem like a very daunting place at first. With the range of opportunities on offer, you may find yourself somewhat overwhelmed by the scale of activities and responsibilities introduced to you. Nevertheless, I can guarantee that you will find your time at Scotch to be both enjoyable and memorable, and I feel sure that the boys who are already a part of this community will treat you with utmost respect and dignity, just as they were treated when they first arrived here.
At the end of 2020 I remember thinking: ‘We’ve survived the worst of the pandemic already: 2021 has to be a breeze in comparison’. Obviously, I was wrong as COVID has affected us again. As an optimist, however, I am aware of some of the positives that the pandemic has brought us. Undoubtedly one is the greater role that technology now plays in our School, allowing our community to be more connected in an online environment. Similarly, there is a higher awareness of personal hygiene, changing the mindset of even the most stubborn of us. There have, however, been significant concerns for many of us. My grandpa recently contracted COVID and has been hospitalised since early January. Instantly the pandemic got a whole lot more real for me. Naturally it’s been a tough period for my family, and I’m aware that some of you may have also experienced this, whether it was your friend, family member, or even yourself who got the virus. It’s made me realise just how precious time is and just how unpredictable our lives are. Although it seems like we’ve moved past snap lockdowns that have disrupted our learning, there is still the prospect of getting Omicron and missing school while in isolation. The uncertainty of our situation gives me further reason to implore you to seize every single opportunity that comes your way this year and make the best of it. Perhaps you might consider picking a challenging new subject this year that will force you out of your comfort zone, or you might want to get into the first team of your favourite sport and push yourself harder to achieve new personal bests. Maybe you’d like to form a debating team with your mates and get into heated battles with other schools on Wednesday nights, or join the editorial team and help create the incredible Scotch Collegian by the end of the year. Or you could sing your heart out in front of a packed audience for this year’s musical, West Side Story. Maybe some of the numerous extension activities that the School offers attract your attention, or you might also consider becoming a part of the Music School family by joining a band, an orchestra or Pipes and Drums. In my case I’ve been deeply immersed in Music School activities and events since Year 7, and looking back, that experience has helped mould me into what I am today. And I’m sure this will also be the case for many of you, whichever path you choose to pursue. Boys, I know that this year may pose challenges, and that at times you may feel burdened by work and responsibilities. But I also know that if you put in the time and effort, the fruits of your efforts will make this year memorable. Make new friends, stay connected, maintain strong relationships with your loved ones, and most importantly, be healthy and safe, both physically and mentally. I hope you all have a wonderful and eventful 2022. Great Scot 31
FEATURES
AN EXEMPLARY SCOTCH BOY RECEIVES THE 2021 NED PARNHAM AWARD ‘Ardently focused on doing what he feels is right’
LACHLAN MCMURTRIE - YEAR 12
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Lachlan McMurtrie (Year 12), a boy who throughout his school career has sought to make a difference through his endeavours and actions, is the worthy winner of the 2021 Ned Parnham Award. First granted in 2020, the award commemorates the life of Ned Parnham from Scotch’s Class of 2015. It goes annually to a boy in Years 7-11 who demonstrates true Scotch Spirit, by challenging things that need challenging and supporting things that need supporting. The names of all award winners are recorded as part of the sculpture, and a replica of the award is presented to each year’s recipient. Ned Parnham attended Scotch from 2010-15, and loved his time at the School. He embraced the learning, the friendships, the sport and all the opportunities presented to him. Ned died in 2020 of a rare form of acute myeloid leukaemia, despite a long and arduous period of treatment. He was just 22 years of age. As a young boy, Ned had been fascinated with sea creatures, especially stingrays of all varieties. The perpetual award, which is on permanent display in the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall, consists of a sculpture of southern eagle rays. In considering the 2021 nominations, it became apparent that Lachlan McMurtrie would be a most deserving recipient of the award, as during his time at Scotch he had acted in ways that had influenced for the greater good, without thought of reward or recognition, and had put the needs and interests of others before his own. During his time at Scotch, beginning in Year 7, Lachlan has been readily involved in the vast opportunities the School offers, particularly in the area of Public Speaking. He has been an exemplary student, receiving academic prizes in Years 9, 10 and 11. In Year 10, he was Scotch's representative for the Kwong Lee Dow Scholarship, and in 2022 Lachlan is Captain of Field House and a School Prefect, reinforcing the esteem in which he is held by staff and boys. Beyond the classroom, Lachlan’s contributions have been significant and far reaching. Last year he worked with a young boy over Zoom through the Student2Student reading program, which is designed to assist underprivileged young persons with their literacy. Lachlan also participated in the EVATT Model UN competition, reaching the semifinals of the competition. Success was also obtained in the Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition. Last year, Lachlan assisted on the Year 9 Field retreat and acted as a peer mentor. His talents in Public Speaking were put to good use, through winning the Year 11 competition, but more importantly, assisting the Year 9 Field representative, including turning up to the performance to offer further feedback. Lachlan has also been heavily involved in House Drama; yet, because other students were interested in performing, he selflessly confined himself to the ‘off-camera’ roles of writing and directing so that his peers could be involved. Through all this Lachlan displayed an imperturbable sense of modesty and empathy for others. Perhaps Lachlan’s approach to school life is best articulated by his Head of House, who wrote: ‘Seldom have I come across a student so ardently focused on doing what he feels is right, and so willing to go above and beyond to ensure all feel welcome and respected.’ Lachlan has sought to make a difference through his endeavours and actions, supporting those things that need supporting and challenging those things that need challenging. He fully exemplifies Scotch Spirit, and is a worthy recipient of the 2021 Ned Parnham Award.
BACKTO-BACK CENTURIES BY THE CAPTAIN Unbeaten hundreds on consecutive days After three seasons when no Scotch batsman has made a century in an official APS match, William Townsend, Captain of the 1st XI, broke the drought by scoring two consecutive tons and backed them up with two further hundreds later in the season. William, the winner of the 2020/21 H I Cohen Trophy for the best all-round 1st XI player, achieved a rare feat. On Friday 18 February he scored an unbeaten 109 runs against St Kevin’s College to lead the team to an impressive score of 3-163 in a twenty20 match. William played a well-paced innings to start with, and accelerated as the overs went by. St Kevin’s was limited to 6-100 by a disciplined bowling and fielding performance by Scotch, who won `by 63 runs. One day later, on Saturday 19 February, William scored yet another unbeaten century – 146 runs against Geelong Grammar School. He played an innings of concentration and skill which highlighted his true potential and character. This time he steered his team to a strong position of 3-274 after 50 overs. Unfortunately for Scotch, due to sheer tenacity and determination by the opposition, we were not able to capitalise on the score posted, and ended up losing the match by one wicket. The match was one of the most gripping ever played on the Main Oval, swinging from side to side throughout, all for school and the much esteemed Tait Trophy, which is awarded annually to the winner of the Scotch versus Geelong Grammar School match in March. With two unbeaten centuries to his name, for William Townsend it was just the beginning. He scored two more centuries in a stellar season – 131 not out against Wesley, and 124 against Geelong College in the final APS round, to cap off a prolific season.
WILLIAM TOWNSEND WITH ONE OF HIS SPECIAL BATS AND A BRENTFORD SCARF GIFTED BY MR BATTY
ROB BLACKMORE – 1ST XI CRICKET COACH Great Scot 33
FEATURES
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED AT SCOTCH
TWO EMINENT WOMEN SPEAK TO THE BOYS
International Women’s Day this year was celebrated across both Senior and Junior School campuses at Scotch. Zoom presentations by notable leaders in their professions, Jayne Hrdlicka and Laureate Professor Ingrid Scheffer AO, were delivered to boys in form and house groups, with students compering the sessions. Our Junior School staff and students gathered both onsite and remotely to watch the live Zoom presentation from our special guest speaker, Professor Ingrid Scheffer. Prior to this event, the boys spent time in their classrooms learning about Professor Scheffer and her work. They were eager to listen to her speak about her career as a physician-scientist whose work has led the field of epilepsy genetics for more than 20 years. Professor Scheffer began her presentation focusing on three main issues – Resilience, Gender Styles and Bias – and her career mantra: enjoy the journey and don’t be too worried about the end point. Her career began with the altruistic aim of helping people, but looking after her patients drove her curiosity to ask scientific questions, because she wanted to better understand their diseases. This exciting outcome led her to delve into the research field, which has allowed her to make an impact on people all over the world with epilepsy. Exploring the themes of grit, a growth mindset and the pursuit of excellence, the presentation successfully held the attention of the boys. Professor Scheffer talked about her many highlights and awards and the countless hurdles she has faced in her career, some relating to her gender. A key take-away for the audience was to focus on how we use resilience to overcome challenges. She spoke of allowing serendipity to prevail when things don’t go to plan. A key message for the boys to ponder was the fact that men and women have different perspectives and different solutions to problems. The outcome of men and women working in combined leadership is far greater than only one gender dominating. Professor Scheffer concluded the presentation by answering questions from the boys, read by James Luk and Charlie Lamb of Year 6, who were the MCs for the event. At the Senior School, the boys and staff were provided with an opportunity to listen to the CEO of Virgin Airlines, Jayne Hrdlicka,
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speak about what International Women’s Day meant for her. As one of only four per cent of female CEOs of airline companies worldwide, Ms Hrdlicka reflected on the significance of the day. Acknowledging that while there has certainly been progress in terms of equity for women, Ms Hrdlicka challenged Scotch boys to think about gender issues that still exist. She pointed out that gender inequity in political, corporate and sporting worlds and the alarming issue of domestic violence against women still need to be addressed. As such, she encouraged our students to make a difference to ensure all the women in their lives have equitable opportunities, so that they feel safe and that the world of possibilities is also open to them. She urged our boys to be upstanding citizens – to be the ones who will not walk past poor behaviour, especially when it comes to how women are treated. When speaking with staff, Ms Hrdlicka addressed the International Women’s Day theme – ‘Break the Bias’ – encouraging all in our community to consider this theme, to ensure that everybody plays a role in creating frameworks that support equity, to promote a culture that is welcoming and inclusive, and to ensure the women in our community feel valued and have a voice. In addition to Ms Hrdlicka’s address to staff and students, throughout the week students were given opportunities to participate in various activities in subject areas and in tutor and form groups to gain more knowledge about the day, the history behind the day and the issues that International Women’s Day seeks to address. Discussion questions and quizzes, Englishthemed activities and the promotion of females in science were just some of the activities that were offered, and in doing so it is hoped that our students reflected on the contributions and challenges experienced by women throughout history and in the present. MELANIE PIVA – SENIOR SCHOOL TEACHER
Internati Women's onal Day
Here are two student perspectives on the International Woman’s Day presentations:
Let's break the bias
Speaking to Ms Jayne Hrdlicka on International Women’s Day afforded the boys and myself the opportunity to absorb a wealth of knowledge and life experience. Touching on points such as work-life balance, people who inspire, and awareness of those around us, we discussed a wide range of topics that are so relevant to today’s society. Ms Hrdlicka stressed one of the most important skills to acquire after you leave school and embark on life is ‘the ability to understand what matters’. The skill of being able to prioritise is vital for success. She explained that in order to thrive, one needs to know what is important in family, work, study and personal life, and be able to find balance to deliver appropriately. While completing her Masters of Business at Dartmouth University, she learned that managing time and being able to make trade-offs was a critical skill to manage a busy life. The ability of ‘figuring out what to focus on and what to put on the backburner’, she labelled as being the single most important skill in our toolkit which enables us to make a difference to the things that matter. Ms Hrdlicka also draws inspiration from the influential people of today, and appreciates the skills and attributes that lead them to such success in their professional lives. Involved as she is in her role in the tennis sphere, she commended Ash Barty as someone who is nothing short of extraordinary when it comes to her work ethic. She played tennis from a young age, switched to play cricket for a while, and then returned to the court, having figured herself out as a professional tennis player. She worked hard on physical and more importantly mental resilience throughout her career, and the result shows as she ended up winning the women’s singles final at the Australian Open. Not only did she win the final but the match had more TV viewers than any other sporting event in Australian history, showing the sheer impact she had on her fans in her home country and around the world. Jane admired the fact that no matter her level of success, Ash constantly seeks to learn from every day to get better for the next. As she so well put it, ‘we’re never done learning’. We finished by discussing the key themes that young people should focus on for International Women’s Day. This day, she affirmed, should matter to us all, as we all have important women in
our lives – our mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmas or friends. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect initially on the fact that there is so much that has been achieved already, but also to acknowledge that we are far from achieving our goals. Around the world, and in Australia, there are issues of inequity in every aspect of our community. All the women in our lives should have the ability to feel safe and secure, and that the world of possibility is available to them if they work hard to achieve their dreams. As we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women across history, who have fought against oppression and inequality, it is essential we recognise the part we can play in achieving genuine equity for women. TOMMY LIVADARIS – SCHOOL CAPTAIN
On International Women’s Day, the boys in our Junior School were privileged to have a special guest, Professor Ingrid Scheffer, speak to them during a special online Assembly. Professor Scheffer is a paediatric neurologist who has been a leader in the field of epilepsy genetics research for the last 20 plus years. She has won numerous awards, such as the L’OréalUNESCO Laureate for Women in Science award and the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science. The presentation began with Professor Scheffer talking about resilience, gender styles and bias. She told us that it doesn’t matter what gender you are, you should always give it your all. She emphasised that she never set out to receive awards and that women should be treated equally and with respect. We learnt that women can have different perspectives on topics than men. She spoke to us about how important it is to have men and women working together to solve problems as they both have very different ideas. I personally felt that Professor Scheffer’s presentation gave me an understanding of what life is like outside of school. Her message about how we need to use resilience to overcome challenges is very true. I also understood the idea that when men and women work together in leadership the results are far better than one gender dominating. CHARLIE LAMB – YEAR 6
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NEWS
SCOTCH’S PIPES AND DRUMS ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOMED THE 2022 SEASON
GREAT TO BE BACK, LIVE A return to competitive action for the Scotch Pipes and Drums brought a great sense of anticipation and excitement. After two years of Zoom lessons, online band rehearsals, and longing to return to play in front of real people instead of faces on the screen, the 2022 local pipe band competition season felt long overdue and was welcomed by all with open arms. In preparation, the pipe band boys had a week-long camp on Phillip Island using the excellent Scotch-at-Cowes facilities. There were new young faces in the bands, and we were lucky to have some special guest
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instructors to provide their musical expertise. Music can excel in connecting people: the sense of togetherness and community by the end of camp was apparent for all, with the boys having worked hard but also having had fun fostering relationships with their peers. Camp concluded with an informal public performance in Cowes that was enthusiastically received by the large audience. The first competition this season was in the familiar Scotch grounds, with our number one and number two bands pitted against bands from Haileybury and Ballarat
PIPES AND DRUMS PREPARE FOR FINAL COMPETITIONS
Grammar. Both Scotch bands performed well, winning the overall titles in their respective grades – novice A and novice B. One week later the Scotch boys competed on a blustery day at Haileybury. With a cold wind, conditions were more reminiscent of Scotland trips of old; however, both bands again delivered strong performances, winning the overall titles in their respective grades. With the local competition season feeling as if it was just beginning, we had the final competition – the Victorian State Pipe Band Championships – on a hot, sunny day in Eastfield Park, Croydon. The Scotch
Number 1 Band delivered two respectable performances in hot conditions, but lost the title this time to Haileybury in the novice A grade. The Scotch Number 2 Band delivered its best performance of the season to claim the title of Victorian champions in the novice B grade. In congratulating the boys for their successful local season our attention turns to some public performances in the immediate future, and ultimately returning to competitive action at the Australian National Pipe Band Championships in October. STRUAN THORPE – BAGPIPE INSTRUCTOR
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NEWS TOP: DR DAVID TREEBY, ALISTAIR HARKNESS, ANDREW NOBLE, JONATHAN PATTINSON; MIDDLE: CHARLENE LANDVOGT, MELISSA BRADDY, JANE EDWARDS; BOTTOM: CHARLENE PEREIRA, ALEX COLUSSA, AMY HORNEMAN, REV PETER TURNBULL, CHRISTOPHE TAYLOR
NEW SENIOR SCHOOL STAFF Scotch welcomed 12 new permanent members of the Senior School staff at the start of the school year. MELISSA BRADDY joins our Centre for Learning team as an academic support teacher. Melissa has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology and a postgraduate Diploma of Educational Studies, and has extensive experience in providing learning support, having spent the previous 27 years at St Catherine’s School. In addition to providing academic support, Melissa will teach a class of English.
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ALEX COLUSSA comes to us from Trinity Grammar, to join our Science Department. Beyond the classroom, Alex has been an active member of a number of external curriculum societies, including as President of the Early Careers Chemistry Network. He has also been actively engaged in a number of chemical research projects, organised through the Chemical Research Experience for Teachers at the University of Melbourne. In addition to his teaching duties, Alex will be a Tutor in Forbes House.
JANE EDWARDS returns to Scotch after a short stint at Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar. Jane will be teaching senior English Language as well as junior English. Jane will also be a Tutor in Gilray House. ALISTAIR HARKNESS (’05) has joined our Mathematics Department. He holds degrees in Science and Engineering and has taught at Hoppers Crossing Secondary College, but most recently has worked as a content developer for Edrolo. Alastair has also been a Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Physics examiner, and lectured at the School for Excellence. In addition to teaching Mathematics and Physics, Alistair will be a Year 8 Form Teacher. AMY HORNEMAN comes to our Centre for Learning team as Academic Extension Coordinator. Amy is a qualified and experienced secondary English and German teacher who has in recent years developed a focus on gifted and talented education. Amy was previously at Northside Christian College, where she developed a schoolwide (Prep-Year 12) talent development program. Amy also sits on the Victorian Association for Gifted and Talented Children as a committee member, consultant and publication editor, and has worked with the Melbourne Graduate School of Education (University of Melbourne) to mentor training teachers completing a Masters of Teaching as a Clinical Teaching Specialist. CHARLENE LANDVOGT is an experienced Teacher of History, and joins our History/Classics Department in that role, after spending the previous 15 years teaching at St Bernard’s College, Essendon. Charlene holds an Arts degree with Honours and a Master of Education from the University of Melbourne. She has also been a VCE History: Revolutions examination assessor, and has attended and presented at various History Teachers’ Association of Victoria conferences. In addition to teaching History, Charlene will be a Tutor in Morrison House. ANDREW NOBLE joins the Design Technology Department. Andrew has worked extensively in the UK and Canada, and most recently has worked at Caulfield Grammar School. Andrew holds a Master of Arts in Education, a Graduate Diploma of Education, and an Industrial Design and Technology honours degree. Andrew is also a qualified soccer coach with professional playing and extensive coaching experience. In addition to his teaching duties, Andrew will be a Tutor in Littlejohn House.
CHRISTOPHE TAYLOR also returns to Scotch, having spent the past five years as Head of English at Melbourne Girls’ Grammar. In addition to teaching senior and junior English, Christophe will take over the editorial duties of Great Scot and take on the position of Teacher-in-Charge of Public Speaking. DR DAVID TREEBY comes to our Mathematics Department from PLC, where he has been teaching Mathematics for the previous 11 years. David holds a PhD from Monash University and is a published author with Cambridge University Press. Throughout his time at PLC, David worked extensively with students of high academic potential, providing a number of resources and opportunities. In addition to his teaching duties, David will be a Tutor in Morrison House. REV PETER TURNBULL has joined our Christian Education Department. Peter is an ordained Anglican priest and an experienced senior teacher, having taught various disciplines and having held senior roles at a number of Melbourne schools, most recently at Trinity Grammar School. Peter has also worked with schools and orphanages in Mozambique. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, a Bachelor of Ministry, a Diploma of Theology, a Graduate Diploma of Education, and a Graduate Diploma of Education Administration. Peter is also a published author. In addition to his teaching duties, Peter will be a Tutor in Monash House. STAFF APPOINTED TO NEW POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY KRISTY IRWIN – Chief of Staff MICHELA PELLIZON – Head of Languages EMMIE-CLARE LECKIE – Head of Monash House MARK RIVETT – Head of Fleming House ED SMITHERS – Head of Littlejohn House JAMES KEARNEY – Acting Head of English JACKIE COWCHER – Acting Deputy Head of English TONY WILSON – Deputy Head of Mathematics RICHARD BAYLISS – Acting Head of Physical Education STEVE DE DOMENICO – Academic Coordinator – Studies TOM HAWKINS – Teacher-in-Charge – Debating CHRISTOPHE TAYLOR – Teacher-in-Charge – Public Speaking / Editor – Great Scot DURGA KAMTE – Editor – The Scotch Collegian
JONATHAN PATTINSON hails from Adelaide, and made the trip eastward in 2017. He has spent the past five years at Haileybury, teaching senior English and undertaking the role of House Activities Coordinator. Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and History and a Diploma of Languages (French). In addition to teaching senior and junior English, Jonathan will be a Year 7 Form Teacher. CHARLENE PEREIRA, who holds a Bachelor of Arts and Education degree from Monash University, comes to us from Haileybury, where she has spent the previous five years, one of which was at the Haileybury International School, Tianjin, China. Prior to this, Charlene spent a year at Carey Baptist Grammar School. Charlene will be teaching both senior and junior English, as well as assisting with the English as an Additional Language program. Charlene will also be a Year 7 Form Teacher.
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DRAMA
TOP CLASS FOR THEATRE STUDIES
MONOLOGUE PLAYS TO A PACKED PLAYHOUSE THEATRE AUDIENCE
Congratulations to Charlie Lines-Perrier (Class of 2021) for presenting his VCE Theatre Studies monologue, The Ballad Singer, from The Threepenny Opera by Bertolt Brecht, as part of the VCE Theatre Studies Season of Excellence concert series, held in the Playhouse Theatre at the Arts
Centre Melbourne, St Kilda Road, in March. Charlie and his class formed the inaugural VCE Theatre Studies class for Scotch, and after he top-scored with an A+ on his monologue, Charlie was invited to audition, and offered a spot in this concert. Charlie was one of six VCE Theatre Studies
students to present monologues to a packed house at the Playhouse Theatre. We hope that the Playhouse audience enjoyed the performance as much as we did. HAYLEY SANDPEARL – HEAD OF DRAMA
SCOTCH COLLEGE DRAMA DEPARTMENT FORTHCOMING SHOWS IN 2022
The Year 9/10 performance of Puffs, in collaboration with Lauriston Girls’ School and Korowa Girls’ School, will be presented from Thursday 19 May to Saturday 21 May in the Geoffrey McComas Theatre.
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Congratulations to the cast, crew and directing team of 10 Ways to Survive Life in a Quarantine for surviving an interrupted Term 1 and presenting a wonderful version of this play to a packed Geoffrey McComas Theatre. We look forward to the next two shows:
The Senior Musical, West Side Story, in collaboration with Lauriston Girls’ School, will be presented from Thursday 28 July to Saturday 30 July in the Geoffrey McComas Theatre.
NEWS
TEACHERS WORK CLOSELY WITH EACH BOY, DISCUSSING INDIVIDUAL IDEAS AND INSPIRATION
STUDENT-CENTRED LEARNING IN THE VISUAL ARTS
TEACHERS ARE ABLE TO WORK CLOSELY WITH EACH BOY Scotch’s Visual Arts Department celebrates inquiry and supports students in developing creative and critical thinking skills, equipping them to interpret the rich diversity of the world in which we live. As students in their teenage years grow and evolve, their expanding view of the world around them promotes new interests and at times, provides challenges. We foster a student-centred approach in the studios, particularly in practical classes, which enables each boy to develop individually. In Art, students work on projects that encourage discovery and self-
expression of personal and political subject matter. Boys develop skills and techniques by working in a range of mediums including ceramics, printmaking, painting and digital technologies. Visual Communication offers a focus on applying design thinking processes to solve challenges. With an emphasis on a conversational style of learning, teachers are able to work closely with each boy, discussing individual ideas and inspiration. We follow a strengthsbased approach, always encouraging growth, to help students build confidence in their ideas and their ability to communicate
them visually. This requires teachers to develop strong relationships with students, based on trust and mutual respect. The success and integrity of the artworks produced within the studios is influenced by these relationships. In discussions with their students, teachers aim to promote curiosity and depth of thought. This provides boys with a deeper understanding of their own artistic intentions and how to express their thoughts and feelings through art. EMMA MCCOWAN – ACTING HEAD OF ART
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 41
STAFF IN PROFILE What are your roles at Scotch? I wear a few ‘hats’ at Scotch. First and foremost, I am an Art and Design Teacher and I take Unit 3/4 Visual Communication Design, which I am super passionate about. I am also the Coordinator of Upper School Operations, a role in which I work closely with the Head of Upper School, Mr Tim Rayner, and the Dean of School Operations, Mr Stephen Kong, to ensure that the Upper School is run smoothly. I am also the Teacher-in-Charge of the Year 11 Immersions Program as well as the Teacher-in-Charge of Year 8 tennis. I love the diversity that these many roles bring to my experience at Scotch, and I am appreciative of the various perspectives I am able to have in taking them on.
Interview: NICK MILLER ART AND DESIGN TEACHER Please tell us your experiences before you started at Scotch. Before the seed of a career in teaching was sown in my mind, I was studying Architecture. I completed my Bachelor of Architectural Design and took a gap year in 2012 to venture abroad and see the world (a novel concept in this day and age). On my return, surrounded by many teachers in my life, I considered the interactivity of a career in teaching, and the proposition became more and more appealing. Indecisively, I enrolled in both my Masters of Teaching and my Masters of Architecture, keeping my options open until I had undertaken my first set of teaching rounds. On my first teaching rounds the decision was made clear to me, as I found my passion for working with young people in the field of art and design. Since embarking on a career in teaching I have also developed and maintained an art and design making practice, which I see as essential for honing my skills and passions in the classroom.
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What do you like most about your work at Scotch? I most like working with the young minds that come through the classroom. I love hearing the students’ perspective on world issues, and hearing what is important in their lives. The Art Department welcomes all students with varied interests, and we get to discuss history, current affairs, global trends and philosophy on any given day. Creating a space where boys feel free to share their thoughts and opinions in a safe space is something I am proud to be able to facilitate. In the Visual Communication Design classroom, we are challenged to think about the role design will play in solving global issues. It forces students to consider what is important in the world, and how we can effect positive change in our own context. Beyond the classroom, the camps, immersions and the various extracurricular opportunities that Scotch offers give me a lot of job satisfaction. It is great to be involved in projects that have a focus on developing the whole person, from a social justice standing to focusing on wellbeing and personal fulfilment. These are the truly important lessons in life. What do you do to relax, away from Scotch? I keep myself busy with various hobbies and interests. I value keeping an active social life, and do so while engaging with the amazing opportunities the city of Melbourne has to offer; live music, art exhibitions, theatre, café/food culture and night life. I make art, write, read books and watch films. I try to cycle to work as much as possible, which provides a good transition from the busy day to the evening, and is a good addition to workouts and yoga. What advice do you have for Scotch boys as they encounter life beyond Morrison Street? No learning is ever a waste of time! If you are learning, you are developing yourself in ways that may not become obvious to you until years past. This learning comes from a range of experiences and is not just academic. Take the time to learn from others. To do this, you will need to push past the often uncomfortable nature of meeting strangers. Learn this early and I guarantee that you will never stop learning. Your experiences in this world will become richer, and you will become more empathetic. Also, remember to party.
as a languages teacher in NSW, had two children and moved to Melbourne in 2011. What are your roles at Scotch? When I first came to Scotch I had been appointed as the Head of Languages and Director of the Language and Culture Centre, a role which I held for seven years and thoroughly enjoyed. Scotch has such an extensive and well-supported languages program, and I feel privileged to have worked closely with such an expert team of Language teachers, Language Assistants and in the Community Education Program together with Sophie Musci. Prior to this year I was also a tutor in Gilray House. This year, while I continue to teach Italian, I have embarked on the role of Chief of Staff and Child Protection Officer. It is early days, but I am learning so much and loving it! I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to work with teaching and non-teaching staff in both the Junior and Senior Schools. What do you like most about your work at Scotch? There are so many things which I enjoy about working at Scotch, so it is really hard to narrow it down to just one thing; but on reflection, sitting at the core of all of them is relationships – I love working together with students, parents and with teaching and non-teaching staff both in the Junior and Senior School. There is so much satisfaction in collaborating with others to come up with new ideas or to refine existing ones in the pursuit of excellence – be that in the classroom or beyond.
Interview: KRISTY IRWIN CHIEF OF STAFF AND CHILD PROTECTION OFFICER Please tell us about your experiences before you started at Scotch. I grew up in the Blue Mountains in NSW. When I was at school, my plans had been to pursue a career in either medicine or law. However, going on exchange to Italy when I was 16 completely changed my worldview: it became clear that following my passion for languages was important to me. Without any idea of where my studies might ultimately lead to career-wise, I completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Sydney with a focus on languages, including studies in Italian, French, German and Indigenous Languages. Towards the end of my Arts degree I decided to pursue a career in secondary education and I’m so happy that I did. Not long after graduating, my husband and I moved to Birmingham, England where I worked as a teacher for three years before coming back to Australia. I then continued to work
What are some of your favourite Scotch memories? One of my favourite memories is accompanying students on the study tour to China together with Dr Jixing Xu. It was incredibly rewarding to witness students putting their language skills to the test in country and making connections with students in our partner schools. Similarly, the moment when Scotch boys return from in country exchanges and excitedly recount their experiences is really special. Another favourite memory would be taking the Year 10 Italian students to Brunswick South Primary School and to the Trieste Social Club. The experience was all about community connections and bringing the language learnt in the classroom to life in the community. The students read books they had written in Italian to the Prep students at the Trieste Social Club and met Italian migrants who shared their stories with them. It was such a memorable day!
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 43
MUSIC
FIVE CONCERTS IN FIVE DAYS SUNDAY ON THE MAIN: GLORIOUS MUSIC TO CAPTIVATE DELIGHTED FAMILIES
Following a year of cancellations and postponements, 2021 concluded with a flourish featuring five concerts in as many days, and involving hundreds of boys and families. On Saturday 4 December the Scotch orchestra joined with Pro Musica (conducted by me) to present a concert of piano concertos by the Chinese composer, Chu Wanghua. Richard Liu (Year 12) played the
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Australian premiere of Chu’s Piano Concerto No 3, City Boys with consummate skill and panache, while staff pianist, Lachlan Redd played Chu’s Piano Concerto No 2 with Pro Musica, and pianist and long-term friend of the department Caroline Almonte concluded the concert with Chu’s latest concerto, My Motherland. Sunday 5 December was massive. The bands and younger ensembles in particular
had not had a performance for nearly a year, so Sunday on the Main was born. The concert was suggested by Chris Farrands at a bands meeting, and it grew from there. It was hosted by the indubitably inimitable David Musk in a coruscating cream suit, and staged in front of the Green Grandstand, with the Chapel and Music School making a beautiful backdrop.
A march past by all three Pipe Bands heralded the opening, followed by the 85-member Intermediate Orchestra, the first of 14 ensembles to perform to a huge audience of picnicking parents and families in glorious sunshine. There was a wonderful spirit of optimism and hope as the lockdowns ended and the musical sounds of summer arrived.
Monday 6 December saw the Percussion Concert. This annual concert has taken place for more than 25 years, and holds a special place among those musicians who prefer to use sticks and hit things! It is always very gratifying to see so many former percussionists come that special night. One particular performance is worthy of mention. Adam Pai (Year 12) played the iconic work Fandango by Sarcich
for percussion and piano. As the pianist was unavailable, the piano part was shared between staff marimba exponents, Jude Hallum and Harry Potocnik. Sheer brilliance! Tuesday 7 December was the Summer Prom presented by the Symphony Orchestra. It was really the Winter Concert, that had been postponed to spring, and finally presented in summer. The program was Danzon No 2 by Marquez, Violin
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 45
MUSIC
1.JUNIOR SCHOOL DRUM CORPS 2. PERCUSSION CONCERT
1.
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Concerto No 3 by Saint-Saëns and, after the interval, Dvorak’s glorious Symphony No. 8. The three soloists for the violin concerto (one for each movement) were Lachlan Chen (Year 11), Geoff Liu (Year 9) and Leon Fei (Year 11) respectively. The final concert for the year was on Wednesday 8 December. Owing to lockdowns, the choirs had not had the time to learn a program of Christmas sacred
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3. JUDE HALLUM LEADING JAPANESE-STYLE DRUMS WITH GUSTO 4. CELEBRATING CHU WANGHUA’S 8TH YEAR. LEFT TO RIGHT: LACHLAN REDD, JOHN FERGUSON, CHU WANGHUA, CAROLINE ALMONTE, RICHARD LIU 5. MR BATTY CONGRATULATING THE MUSICIANS 6. THE CARDINALS
music, so the College Choir, Chamber Choir and Cambiata, in conjunction with Academy Strings, presented a Christmas Concert in lieu of the Carol Service. It included a lovely performance of Cradle Hymn by Arnesen for Chamber Choir and Strings, and the full choir performing a dazzling arrangement of When the Saints. Academy Strings, under Benjamin Castle, performed Corelli’s Christmas Concerto
and the evening concluded with community carols, led by Andrew Hunter. It was a popular format, and provided a fitting end to the year. JOHN FERGUSON - DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
7.
9. 7. GEOFF LIU PLAYS THE SECOND MOVEMENT OF SAINT-SAENS’ VIOLIN CONCERTO NO 3 8. LACHLAN CHEN PLAYING AT THE SUMMER PROM 9. LACHLAN REDD WITH PRO MUSICA 10. BEN CASTLE DIRECTING THE ACADEMY STRINGS 11. RICHARD LIU AT THE PIANO 12. COMBINED CHOIRS, DIRECTED BY ANDREW HUNTER
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SPORT
SCOTCH’S HEAD OF THE RIVER WINNING 1ST CREW WITH THEIR OARS IN SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
GREAT COMPETITION IN AN UNINTERRUPTED SUMMER SEASON
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES IN SENIOR TEAMS AND JUNIOR PROGRAMS Our boys and the school community warmly welcomed an uninterrupted summer sport season. After significant challenges over the last two years, it is great that some normality has returned, with regular fixtures and lots of smiles on boys’ faces. Amazingly, Scotch did not cancel a single fixture in the summer season. We certainly shone with some outstanding performances in our senior teams and within our junior programs The Head of the River win by our 1st VIII crew was an outstanding achievement, and will be remembered for years to come. Our crew had experienced some ups and downs throughout the season, but under the leadership of coach, Tom Woodruff, and Captain, Maxim Jeremijenko, our boys found a way to perform when it counted most. They powered through the course to win by a comfortable margin ahead of Melbourne Grammar School and St Kevin’s College. Our Year 9 Quads also dominated at the Head of the River, with some excellent performances on the day across all of the crews competing. The 1st VIII backed up the following week at the National Rowing Championships, to finish second.
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RIGHT: CAPTAIN OF SWIMMING TOBY MCCOMISH (LEFT) AND VICE CAPTAIN SEBA NEGRI WITH THE ALL SCHOOLS RELAY CHAMPIONSHIPS TROPHY
Volleyball has captured the interest of all at school with the positioning of a net on the boarders’ lawn, arguably the catalyst for a premiership. Scotch finished equal top with Carey Grammar School, and delivered its first premiership since 2012. Nail-biting wins against Xavier College and Wesley College were key fixtures, as our boys held their nerve to deliver season-defining wins. The team richly deserves this result, as the boys worked tirelessly on their skills and teamed together well over the preseason, winning all games in the lead-up to the season. Our swimming team looked to build on a promising 2021 season, and started with some impressive lead-up meets and also a victory in the All Schools Relay Championships. It was the first time in over 15 years that Scotch had defeated St Kevin’s in a major meet. On APS finals night, with a revamped program, our boys were able to challenge for top position but fell short to finish in a still impressive second position. Several Scotch records were broken at the All Schools Relay Championships, including two individual records by Dominic Tsui (Year 12) in the 50 metres breaststroke with a time of 30.71 seconds,
and Toby McOmish (Year 12) in the 50 metres butterfly, with a time of 25.86 seconds. The open 4 x 50 metres butterfly and freestyle relay teams also broke school records, and several Scotch boys also broke APS records on finals night. This included Toby McOmish in the open 50 metres freestyle, the under 14 4 x 50 metres freestyle, breaststroke and backstroke relay teams, and also the open 4 x 50 metres freestyle and backstroke relay teams. Tom Roach’s (Year 8) performance in the individual 50 metres freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke in the multiclass events was also a feature of the evening. In the diving pool, Captain Zach Hutchings won the APS open boys’ A final. He scored an impressive 212.50 points from his four dives, which was 35 points ahead of his nearest competitor. Lachlan Gumley (Year 8) finished fourth in the under 14 A final, and Jack Collins (Year 8) on limited preparation finished third in the B final. Our squad finished sixth overall. The 1st Table Tennis team enjoyed a recent resurgence with four wins and two losses, to finish third, after losing to the dominant Haileybury and Wesley teams. A key feature of our team this year is the many young members participating in the open team. The
future is bright for this group as we look to close the gap with the top teams. The badminton team performed consistently this season with six wins and three losses. Our Captain, Ethan Li, was our standout performer, winning most of his matches. The 1st XI Cricket team had some significant highlights and finished the season strongly to finish in third place with seven wins and three losses. Captain, William Townsend, has been absolutely superb, raising the bat on four occasions with unbeaten innings of 109, 146 and 131, and in his last innings for the school, 124. Amazingly, he scored a total of 685 runs for the season at an average of 97.86. Orlando Pender (Year 11) was the pick of the bowlers with regular wickets, and Lachlan Francis (Year 11) had excellent figures of six wickets for 25 runs against Wesley. The 1st VIII Tennis team performed extremely well, winning six games and losing four. Jack Ganly (Year 12) was again the standout performer, and a clear feature each week was the consistent performance of our doubles teams. Futsal won three games and lost four to finish sixth. The highlight of the season was arguably our 6-4 victory against rivals, St Kevin’s. Lucas Green (Year 11) was regularly
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SPORT
in our best players, and Edward Manderson (Year 12) defended strongly in goals. The touch football team was highly competitive, but despite going close on several occasions, was unable to win any games for the season. Our boys certainly tried hard, but just lacked a bit of poise at critical times. The 1st Red and Blue Squash teams enjoyed a positive season and worked hard on their games, finishing third and fourth in the schools competition. We look to the future to help grow numbers back into the sport, as they have declined across all schools in recent years. Scotch fielded six teams in the APS lawn bowls competition, with three teams reaching the quarter finals and one team making it through to the semi-finals. The Scotch D team was the best performed overall and lost in an extra end to finish fourth. The Scotch orienteering squad competed enthusiastically over the eight-week season, finishing second in the schools section of the competition. Camberwell Grammar School retained the SladeWilson Trophy, winning with 976 points to Scotch’s 681. Outstanding individual performances for Scotch over the season included our
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Captain, Spencer Kelsey, who finished third in the A grade (10km) grade, and Jeremy Le (Year 9) who finished third in the C grade (6km) competition. The Scotch Sailing team travelled to Mornington Sailing Club to compete in the Victorian Schools Sailing Championships in April. The Firsts team, led by Thomas Johnston and Thomas Warner, performed exceptionally in the qualification rounds in the first two days in heavy winds. Unfortunately, we struggled to adapt to the lighter winds in the finals races and finished fifth in the championship. The Seconds performed more consistently to finish fourth in their division. Our cyclists performed well in the Victorian Interschool Cycling series. Alex Jones (Year 12) was our best performed cyclist, with regular top three placings in competition, including overall first position in the senior A grade series. Jamieson Graves (Year 11) finished third in the senior C grade series. Our golf squad again made progress, winning most fixtures against Trinity Grammar and St Kevin’s at Kew Golf Club. The boys will select our strongest team in recent history to compete in early May in the APS/AGS invitational event.
The Old Scotch athletics program provided some excellent results, with the boys making some significant progress. Bart Leeton (Year 8) won the state title in the under 15 1500 metres in a time of 4.06.60. He also finished second in the 800 metres. Several athletes headed to the nationals in Sydney, with Sam Allen (Year 9) jumping an impressive 1.91 metres in the under 16 high jump, to finish third, and was knocked out in the heats of the 800 metres with a time of 2.02. Rory Vial (Year 10) and Nathan Munro (Year 12) finished 12th and sixth respectively in the 3000 metres in the under 17 and 18 age groups. Tom Roach (Year 8) won bronze in the under 15 multi-class discus, and finished fourth in the 100 metres and in the javelin.
Table Tennis Tennis Volleyball
APS SUMMER SPORTS PERFORMANCES
We thank all involved for making this summer season such a positive one. The willingness of all to adapt and show flexibility to get things to work has been a feature. This generous spirit was evidenced by the our Principal, Mr Batty, stepping up to a coaching role of one of Year 7 cricket teams in the final week of the season. We look forward hopefully to our first full winter season in three years.
Badminton Cricket Diving Futsal Rowing Swimming
3rd 3rd 6th 6th 1st 2nd
3rd 5th 1st
Seven boys were selected for the APS representative teams. William Townsend and Nicholas Teoh (Year 12) were selected as Vice Captains in cricket and table tennis respectively. Badminton: Cricket: Futsal: Table Tennis: Volleyball:
Ethan Li William Townsend (Vice Captain), Orlando Pender Lucas Green Nicholas Teoh (Vice Captain), Daniel Zou Alek Taktovic
STUART POWELL – DIRECTOR OF SPORT www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 51
SPORT
SCOTCH SCORES UPSET WIN AT THE 2022 HEAD OF THE RIVER
SPONTANEOUS REACTION TO AN UNEXPECTED WIN IN THE HEAD OF THE RIVER
SCOTCH PUSHES AHEAD TO A SOMEWHAT UNEXPECTED VICTORY Scotch won the 154th staging of the Head of the River, in an upset over pre-race favourites Melbourne Grammar School. A number of strong crews were in contention for the Head of the River title in 2022. The tall, athletic Wesley College crew, far heavier than the Scotch crew, had a few weeks earlier won the Victorian State Schoolboy Eight Championship, a second ahead of Melbourne Grammar. The St Kevin’s College crew also contained some very talented and experienced athletes, who had shown they were more than capable. It was the physically imposing Melbourne Grammar crew, with a notably larger crew, however, who entered the final week of the season as the leader of the pack, having won the Scotch Mercantile Regatta with a comprehensive performance. With the prospect of again racing the much taller, heavier Melbourne Grammar crew in a week’s time, the Scotch crew altered their technical rowing stroke and also changed the race strategy, rehearsing this throughout the week. The day of the Head of the River was sunny and warm with very little wind, allowing the crews to race unimpeded by the conditions. The Scotch crew faced a number of crews including
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the accomplished St Kevin’s eight in their heat. Implementing the changes they had made over the course of the week, the crew was able to win its heat after being level with St Kevin’s at the 1000 metre, or halfway, mark. In the final of the Head of the River, there was very little that separated the crews. At the 1000 metre mark, or halfway point of the race, the giant Melbourne Grammar crew held the lead, with the Scotch crew around one-third of a length behind in second. St Kevin’s was one to two metres behind in third and Wesley one-third of a length behind in fourth place. Xavier College and Geelong Grammar School were not far behind these leading four crews. Over the third 500 metres of the race the Scotch crew was able to move back to level with Melbourne Grammar, and then eke out an advantage of a few seats. At the 1500 metre mark Scotch had taken the lead, however Wesley, St Kevin’s and Melbourne Grammar were all within striking distance. Over the final 500 metres the Scotch crew continued to push away, to score a somewhat unexpected victory, crossing the line 3.7 seconds, or over a length, ahead of Melbourne Grammar, with St
TOP: THE 9A QUAD. LEFT TO RIGHT: SACHA DEMETRIOU (COXING, OBSCURED), BEN FERGUSSON, CHARLIE WILCOX, TED BURNEY, LOUIS EMMETT BOTTOM, LEFT: PRINCIPAL TOM BATTY WITH THE WINNING 2022 CREW. LEFT TO RIGHT: HENRY STRANG, MAX JEREMIJENKO, TOM BATTY, JOSH BUFE, GEORGE BURNEY, ANGUS MCCLUSKY, CHARLIE GREEN, WILL COWAN, COOPER LORD, CHRISTOPHER LOUZIS. BOTTOM, RIGHT: THE 2022 FIRST CREW RACING TO THE LINE IN THE HEAD OF THE RIVER
Kevin’s 1.43 seconds (less than half a length) behind in third place, and Wesley one second (or around one-quarter of a length) behind in fourth place. Scotch posted an extremely impressive time in still conditions of five minutes and 52.85 seconds in winning the race. The crew was Angus McClusky (coxswain), Maxim Jeremijenko (Stroke), Christopher Louzis, Josh Bufe, Henry Strang, Charlie Green, George Burney, Will Cowan and Cooper Lord (Bow). The crew was coached by Tom Woodruff, Archie Gill and Kemble Edelsten. The APS footage of the 2022 Head of the River is available online: https://cluch.tv/aps-regatta-hotr/aps-regatta-heads-of-river-2022/ The 2nd VIII completed its successful season by finishing third in the division 2 A final. The 3rd VIII was placed third in the division 3 A final, with the 4th VIII also taking third place in the division 4 final. The 10A crew won the B final of the Year 10 division 1, while the 10B VIII came fourth in the A final. The 10C crew was fifth in the division 3 A final. In the Year 9 quad sculls, Scotch was enthusiastically represented by 12 crews, and while there were many strong performances, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 9th quads were able to win the A finals of divisions 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9.
It is a credit to the boys and staff that the Boat Club was able to function while dealing with the enormous and ongoing instability due to absences that occurred as a result of isolation requirements. The Boat Club is pleased to be able to farewell Principal Tom Batty with a tenth Head of the River victory for his period as headmaster – a fitting reward for his continued support of the Boat Club. Thanks also to the academic staff who offer pastoral care and academic assistance to student rowers. These staff have been especially critical as students transition back into more regular face-to-face school life. In addition, the Boat Club acknowledges the vital input of all parents who have worked to help their sons to participate in the sport. The Boat Club could not function without the work of the staff involved, including the many coaches, and the boatmen. The support of the Cardinal Club led by Peter Findlay (’89) is also greatly appreciated. TOM WOODRUFF – FIRST VIII COACH AND DIRECTOR OF ROWING PHOTOGRAPHY – STEPHEN KONG
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 53
SPORT
THREE SCOTCH COLLEGIANS CROSSED PATHS AT THE YALE V BROWN SHOWDOWN. JOSH HILL (’20) STUDYING AND ROWING AT YALE, JAMES SCOTT (’19) STUDYING AND ROWING AT BROWN, AND MARCUS EMMETT (’19) STUDYING AND ROWING AT YALE.
SCOTCH ROWING BUILDS TOWARDS THE FUTURE STRONG PERFORMANCES DESPITE THREE COMPROMISED SEASONS
The 2022 rowing season was the third compromised rowing season since the government lockdowns began in 2020. Over this period, rowers and staff have been challenged to find alternate ways of training and improving. The 2020 crew contended with the bushfire emergency of January 2020, which saw the camp relocated to southern Tasmania. Prior to this, the crew had won Melbourne Head and Head of the Yarra, in the latter event beating a strong Sydney Rowing Club crew to win the school eight division. Over the racing season in Term 1 the crew was undefeated. This included the NSW School Eight title, which was completed before wild weather caused the regatta to be abandoned. With two weeks of the season remaining, and the Head of the River and Australian Championships looming, the season was abandoned. In 2021, the Boat Club negotiated multiple lockdowns and was able to participate in most of the regattas, including the Australian Championships in Tasmania. The 2022 season began with the resumption of school during Term 4. Boys spent much of the season readjusting to life at school. All crews from Year 9 to senior level dealt with ongoing changes in personnel as close contact and COVID absentees required daily crew lineup changes. Despite the premature end to the 2020 season and the compromised nature of the 2021 and 2022 seasons, it has been
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pleasing to see some of the achievements of Scotch rowers. Tom Heerding (’21) and Ben Symons (’20) were selected in the 2022 Youth Eight for Victoria which raced at the Interstate Regatta on 3 April at Nagambie. Rising star Fraser Miscamble (’19) was named in the final squad for the King’s Cup (the senior Victorian eight), that raced in the Interstate Regatta at the conclusion of the Australian Championships in Nagambie. Fraser joined Alex Wolf (’15) in the 10-man Kings Cup squad. In other news, two members of the cancelled 2020 season found their way to a US Ivy League College. James Isles (’20) secured a place at Dartmouth, an Ivy League College on the east coast of the United States. He joins Angus Emmett (’17) at this college. Josh Hill (’20) also gained admission to Yale, joining Marcus Emmett (’19) on the rowing roster. These recent admissions add to the 27 Scotch rowers who are currently at, or have graduated from, colleges that include Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Washington, Cal Berkley, George Washington, Dartmouth, Syracuse, Brown and Boston University. The US college pathway is a unique opportunity for Scotch rowers to gain admission into world class institutions and mix with talented people from around the world. The Boat Club recognises the efforts of all boys over the past few years. TOM WOODRUFF – 1ST VIII COACH AND DIRECTOR OF ROWING
BEST SWIMMING SEASON IN 15 YEARS SCOTCH BOYS SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES TO IMPROVE THEIR SWIMMING SKILLS
The Scotch College swimming team had its most successful swimming season in the last 15 years, winning the All Schools Championships, and coming second in the APS finals. A relatively long season in comparison to other years meant there were plenty of opportunities for boys to improve their swimming skills and times, and almost all of them took up that opportunity. It was the first ‘normal’ APS finals in three years. In 2020 the final was cancelled on the morning of the event; in 2021 the event went ahead, but with only swimmers, coaches and parents of Year 11 and 12 boys in the stand. Come 2022, the grandstand was shaking, with a team of 40 swimmers, their parents, extended family and friends present, and to everyone’s delight the ‘Red Army’ in full voice! There were many highlights, and it is very hard to pick a favourite, however it is impossible to go past the open 4x50 metres freestyle relay: in order of swim, Dominic Tsui, Justin Tan, Seba Negri and
Toby McOmish (all Year 12). These boys have been dominant over all of their Scotch time in various combinations, holding four of six age group freestyle relays records. In their final swim representing Scotch on the final event of the night they smashed the existing APS record by 1.3 seconds. Other notable achievements throughout the season include the following boys who broke Scotch records either individually or as part of a relay: Toby McOmish, Dominic Tsui, Justin Tan, Kevin Sun (Year 11), Seba Negri, Tiernan Lim Joon (Year 12) and Tom Roach (Year 8). The following boys also broke APS records; Alex Haigh, Bart Leeton, Harrison Nunn, Zach Haigh (all Year 8), Justin Tan (Year 12), Harry Hay, Sam Knights (both Year 11) , Seba Negri, Toby McOmish, George Xie, Chan Charoensuk, Kyan Lim Joon (all Year 8) and Dominic Tsui (Year 12). RYAN NOLAN – TEACHER-IN-CHARGE, SWIMMING
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SPORT
PURSUING PASSIONS AWAY FROM THE SPORTS PROGRAMS
LEFT: DHANIKA NANAYAKKARA (YEAR 11) – SAILING; MIDDLE: LEWIS FRANCIS (YEAR 7) – KARTING; RIGHT ALEXANDER GINAYLO (YEAR 8) - JUDO
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS IN KARTING, JUDO AND SAILING Every year I am reminded that we have some extraordinary boys at our School. Not all of our students participate in the traditional sports we offer, and it is great they are able to pursue their passions away from our programs. We strongly encourage boys to pursue these interests, and support their journey. Here are three examples of notable achievements across our sports programs away from school. Lewis Francis (Year 7) spends a significant time on the motor race track, and is a two-time winner of the Australian Kart Championship. He has recently moved up to the premium junior level of karting in Australia, and has taken a huge step in his motorsport career. Lewis is the youngest in the field, and recently spent time in Italy during the holidays training to improve his technical driving skills against the higher standard of competition. He does his best to balance school sport when not competing in the Australian Kart Championship. We look forward to seeing where his passion takes him in the coming years. Alexander Ginaylo (Year 8) has turned heads this year, winning
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three gold medals at the Melbourne International, ACT Open and Sydney International judo competitions. He has worked tirelessly on developing his skills, and is taking a small break before he competes at the nationals in the middle of the year. Alexander is an immense talent and possesses great discipline and focus. Dhanika Nanayakkara (Year 11) was placed third, winning a bronze medal in the Laser 4.7 class at the Third Chief of Air Staff International Sailing Championship 2022, held over four days in Karachi, Pakistan. Showing perseverance, focus and strategic prowess on the water Dhanika was able to secure his bronze in the final race on the final day. This is his second international medal, his first bronze medal being won at the International Optimist Dinghy Association Championship, held in Oman in 2019 in the Silver Fleet. Dhanika has been an integral part of our sailing program and has enjoyed great success with the team as they qualified for Nationals in 2021. STUART POWELL – DIRECTOR OF SPORT
THE FOOTBALL FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT
YOUNG OLD BOYS IMPRESS IN A SUMMER FOOTBALL CARNIVAL
ABOVE: SCOTCH AND MELBOURNE GRAMMAR TEAMS LINE UP AT THE HANGAR. BELOW: SCOTCH’S TEAM FOR THE MATCH AGAINST MELBOURNE GRAMMAR AT THE HANGAR.
In an effort to make up for some of what had been lost for the footballers from the Classes of 2020 and 2021, a football carnival was held at ‘The Hangar’, Essendon Football Club’s new elite training and administration facility at Tullamarine on Sunday 12 December 2021. While the sound of body on body, of umpire’s whistle and ringing bell on a warm summer’s day seemed a bit incongruous, an amazing day was had by all. The young Old Scotch Collegians took on an Old Melburnians’ team chosen from that school’s young Old Boys from 2020 and 2021. Kicking with the aid of a slight breeze in the first term Old Scotch was out of the blocks quickly, kicking four goals to two. This lead was built on the back of a terrific attack on the ball and some outstanding ball movement. We consolidated our position with a strong second quarter, where we outscored our opponents into the breeze to go in at half-time leading by 22 points. The boys were urged to keep up their work rate in the premiership quarter, and they put an emphatic full stop on the game with a
seven-goal quarter, while keeping Old Melburnians scoreless. The boys continued to play with great energy in the final quarter and ran out 69-point winners. It should be noted that Old Melburnians were missing four AFL draftees, while we were missing Sam Darcy (’21). Chance Daltry was adjudged best for Old Melburnians, while Angus Symons (’21) was best for Old Scotch. The game was in many ways secondary to the occasion, and it was terrific to see the great camaraderie that existed between the two schools, which played the first recorded game of football on 7 August 1858. I take this opportunity to thank the organising committee, comprising representatives from both Melbourne Grammar School and Scotch College. OLD SCOTCH OLD MELBURNIANS
4.5 29 2.1 13
6.8 44 3.4 22
13.13 91 3.4 22
16.17 113 6.8 44
TIM SHEARER (’85) – PRESIDENT, OLD SCOTCH FOOTBALL CLUB
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BOARDING
TOM BATTY: DOING THE LITTLE THINGS SO WELL It is often the little things that can make the difference when running a boarding house. The gentle query to a boy about how his sport went on the weekend; a kind word about an award received in Assembly; an acknowledgment of difficulties on the home front. Or it might be an extra chocolate milk at lunch, provided to a Year 7 boy who has been particularly homesick. These little things tell boys, in a subtle manner, that they are known, they are cared for and they are valued. It is these little things, among so many others, that our Principal, Tom Batty does so well. Tom knows the boarders. He knows where they come from, what sport they play, if they are good at mathematics and if they are a chance of converting to his beloved Brentford FC. You will often find Tom at lunch on the Hill, sitting with the boys, listening and laughing, genuinely enjoying his break from the day school.
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He is at Chapel every Sunday night, fills in for duty when we are short-staffed, referees the House soccer on Wedderburn weekends and helps out with maths homework most Sunday evenings. He attends staff and parent functions, calls you when there is a family crisis and knows your children’s names and interests. He also knows when to step away and let you get on with the job. When Tom first arrived at Scotch there was discussion at the highest levels about the ongoing viability of boarding. Student numbers were low, and serious consideration was given to closing Arthur Robinson House and converting it to use for the Junior School. Staff morale was suffering due to these uncertainties. The easy option would have been to reduce the number of boarders and close Arthur Robinson House. But this was not Tom’s way. Tom and the School’s leadership team accepted the challenge, and today, after much hard work, the Hill is thriving. We are at full
SHOWING THE BOYS THEY ARE KNOWN, CARED FOR AND VALUED
capacity with 165 boys in residence and there is a wonderful sense of community; be it at dinner with a happy buzz in the dining hall, or at parent functions, where there is genuine partnership on display. Under Tom’s leadership the School has navigated numerous challenges facing boarding, including responses to the Royal Commission into child abuse, and new legislative and compliance requirements. He navigated the Hill brilliantly through the myriad of challenges thrown our way by the pandemic. We were one of the first boarding schools in Victoria to have boys return after being shut down, operating without regulatory guidance as there was none at the time. Tom has overseen the creation of new staff rosters and new positions, with House Chaplains and a Hill Psychologist added, providing extra pastoral care for boys and additional support for staff. Staff diversity has increased, with the first female Head of
House appointed under Tom’s leadership. An extensive building program continues to improve the physical infrastructure on the Hill. After much debate and many a discussion, we are close to putting to rest the ugly thorn that has been the backblocks of School and McMeckan Houses. Tom has a genuine love for the Hill and the boys who call this little bit of Scotch home. He leaves Scotch knowing the Hill is in a strong position; a testament to his hard work and wise leadership. Most importantly, he departs knowing he has shown us how important those little things are. TIM BYRNES – DEAN OF BOARDING
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 59
FOUNDATION
ASSOC. PROF. DOUG LORDING AM ('64) PRESIDENT OF THE SCOTCH COLLEGE FOUNDATION
A MOST PRODUCTIVE DECADE – AND MORE MAJOR PROJECTS TO COME PROJECTS WILL CONTINUE TO TRANSFORM THE Our Executive Director, Tim Shearer (’85) recently conducted a school tour for the 2010, 2011 and 2012 Scotch graduates as part of their 10-year reunion (delayed for some). He told me they were astounded by the changes in the built environment of the School in such a brief period. He showed them the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science, the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall and St Andrew’s Square, the Tolson Centre and the Home Rooms, none of which were there when they were at school. He didn’t get around to the Spencer Centre for Design and Technology. It was a productive decade to say the least, not only transforming the way the campus looks and interacts, but how important elements of the School function. The pastoral care within the 12-House system has been significantly enhanced by the Home Rooms, and the spaces created within the Science Centre, Design and Technology Centre and the refurbished English Department play into the themes of conversation and relational learning, of which our Principal has been a strong advocate. The Foundation hosted a Forbes Society Luncheon on 9 March, and I related this story. I also pointed out that when the boys of 2022 come back for their 10-year reunion, they will also note major changes. The boarding house precinct modifications are already underway, and will result in much improved accommodation for the Year 12 boys in School and McMeckan Houses, as well as a Boarding Centre for all boys on the Hill to use. Although not yet approved by the School Council, preliminary works have begun scoping the Robinson Centre for Mathematics and a new Main Oval pavilion;
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major projects which will further transform our teaching and learning spaces, and provide a much needed boost to our sports program. Members of the Forbes Society are our most generous donors, and many of them have made defining contributions to these past and future projects. So much that has happened at the School has been based around the generous contributions of Old Boys and the extended Scotch Family, and this trend has continued despite all the setbacks of the last two years. Remarkably, we have 1868 members of the Scotch College Foundation. I did note the reference to the generosity of the Misses Mure in Dr Jim Mitchell’s A Deepening Roar. On further scrutiny I’m not sure if there was one (or two) Miss Mure (or Muir) but whatever, a sizable donation of £200 plus an outfit was sent from Scotland in 1851 to pay the salary of our first Principal, Robert Lawson. On reflection, Miss Mure was probably our first donor and should be listed as a trustee of the Foundation. I’m not sure if the reunion attendees noted the Aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islander flags atop their masts by the Main Oval. They are also a recent addition, and support our Indigenous endeavours at Scotch. Our scholarship program is the centrepiece of this, and during the past 16 years, 26 Indigenous students have successfully completed Year 12. The aim is to have 10 Indigenous boys here at any one time, all on scholarships endowed in perpetuity, and funding this is a high priority for the Foundation in 2022. Old Boy and retired AFL champion Cyril Rioli (‘07) and other members of the Rioli family have generously
SCHOOL’S BUILT ENVIRONMENT agreed to add their support to this program. The deferred 24 hour fundraising event to support the Rioli Family Indigenous Scholarship will now be launched at a dinner at Leonda on 25 May, and we want to see as many there as possible. We have already attracted $1.5 million of ‘matching donations’, so every dollar committed in the 24 hours brings $3 out of this pool: $500,000 is the 24 hour target. A successful campaign will get us close to the overall funding target, with another exciting announcement to be made at the dinner. We are all hopeful that the worst of the COVID pandemic is behind us. ‘Yogi’ Berra, a deceased US baseball Hall of Famer, is renowned for his malaprops and humorous sayings. One that I like best and that is very pertinent to the last few years is, ‘It’s tough to make predictions, particularly about the future’. Finally, much will be written about our Principal Tom Batty in this edition of Great Scot, and there will be opportunities to farewell him formally prior to his departure in June. The Foundation AGM and President’s Dinner on Thursday 12 May will see us officially launch the Tom Batty Scholarship – a scholarship to honour Tom’s outstanding contribution to Scotch over the past 15 years – and will also be an opportunity for the Foundation to thank Tom for his service to Scotch. The Foundation has enjoyed a strong and open relationship with Tom, and acknowledges his personal input into the advances referred to previously. His vision for the School has driven much of the Foundation’s work over the time of his tenure. We wish him and Lee a rewarding and fulfilling future back in the old country.
FOUNDATION PRESIDENT DOUG LORDING AM WITH THREE OF HIS GRANDCHILDREN, ALL OF WHOM BEGAN AT SCOTCH IN 2022: LEFT TO RIGHT: SEBASTIEN LORDING - YEAR 3 (SON OF TIM LORDING ('95)), CHARLIE HERRON - PREP AND RUPERT HERRON - YEAR 4 (SONS OF BRENDAN HERRON ('96))
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 61
FOUNDATION
SUPPORTING THE DELIVERY OF A LIBERAL EDUCATION MR TIM SHEARER ('85) DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
THE SCOTCH FOUNDATION IS FACILITATING THE DELIVERY OF SCOTCH’S MISSION AND AIM The scenes in Europe today have impacted us all in our own ways, and while we are physically removed from what is playing out, we have been emotionally impacted by the images as they are beamed across the world through the wonders of technology. Feelings of sadness, concern and helplessness have consumed me over the past three weeks as I see an innocent people being persecuted by the deeds of an ambitious, oppressive and aggressive narcissist. The following words, written by my grandfather, and former Geelong Grammar Headmaster, Sir James Darling, in 1961, seem as apt today as when they were written, and give me some hope as we move forward … ‘History demonstrates that the forces of evil can be defeated and the sacrifices of so many in the struggle against evil may not be in vain. To achieve an ultimate triumph of good we can never accept the supremacy of evil. Rather we must keep in mind our God-given destiny to live as a human family in a world of goodness and keep pressing on to achieve that goal.’ The events overseas demonstrate how we shouldn’t take our freedom and liberties for granted. While Winston Churchill’s words also ring loud and true today, when he opined that ‘Many forms of Government have been tried, and will be tried in this world of sin and woe. No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed it has been said that democracy is the worst form of
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government except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time …’. At Scotch our boys are encouraged to think and reflect about two foundational questions: how did the world come to be as it is, and how can they shape its future, to the greater good of all. At times like this the importance of a liberal education, so firmly espoused by our founder, James Forbes, comes to the fore. James Forbes was a product of the Scottish Enlightenment, and he saw education as an essential foundation for a high quality public life and for people’s right to choose their own course in life. Education, he wrote, 'must be regarded as the great remedy for the ills of the body politic, the basis on which must be mainly rested all hopes of its amelioration, and of its future generations being better than the present'. Forbes was a passionate advocate for the concepts of freedom and self-responsibility, and at times like this I can’t help but think this passion was underscored by an awareness of the alternatives. Forbes was resolute that if a decent society were to be achieved in the new land, it would be by the efforts of the colonists themselves. He wrote in The Port Phillip Gazette: 'The present Secretary of State for the Colonies is a man of enlarged views, and what is better, a man of Christian principles. But let not the colonists of Australia Felix forget that their main source of confidence must
be their own efforts, and the benignant blessing of our God. They can, I apprehend, do more for themselves than all the Rulers and Governors on earth are likely to do for them; and unless they exert themselves for the promotion of their own interests, and the interests of their posterity, the doom of our adopted country is sealed. [Unless public education is provided] the cause of knowledge and the cause of freedom will be lost together.' The challenges of the past few years have been acute both at home and abroad. While the causes of these challenges have been both natural and man-made, to me they have only magnified the importance of our mission at Scotch. That is, to provide ‘ . . . an education of a humane, scientific and general nature consistent with the teachings of Christianity’ and ‘to encourage each student to achieve the highest standard of which he is capable in all his activities and the full development of the personality and sense of responsibility of each student and respect for others, and capacity to work with them so as to promote the development of Christian ideals of citizenship, personal character and a spirit of reverence in the entire life and work of the College.’ Our aim is to '. . . deliver an education which, secure in the traditions of our past and our Christian belief, opens boys’ minds to the rich diversity of the world in which they live and challenges them to question and
explore everything they find, with integrity, humour and compassion. And to do this in an exciting, intimate environment which nurtures self-expression and self-worth while promoting the uniqueness of each boy’s journey.’ The Scotch College Foundation, and the works of the Development Office, are all about facilitating the delivery of this mission and this aim. I see our works as the value-add component to what otherwise could be delivered by the School if it only relied on the current feepaying parents of the day. One only has to walk around the campus to see the show of philanthropic support on display, be it a new building or a boy on a means-tested scholarship. As the Foundation approaches its fiftieth year in 2023, I thank the 1868 members who have invested in Scotch to make it all it can be for every boy fortunate enough to attend it. I encourage you to join their ranks if you are yet to do so, as we look to support the delivery of a liberal education, where the rights of individuals are respected, we look to the inherent decency in each individual, and our boys are encouraged to be open-minded and free from preconception, conscious of their opinions and judgments, reflective of their actions and aware of their place in the world.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 63
FOUNDATION
2.
SMILES ALL AROUND AS EMG FUNCTIONS RESUME
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A GREAT SETTING FOR EMG COCKTAILS
3.
1. DOUG LORDING '64, KEN JASPER '55. 2. GUS HAWTHORNE '54, JO HAWTHORNE, JUDY ROBINSON, JILL ROBINSON. 3. JUDY HARRIS, JOHN MATHEW '53. 4. JOHN CHRISTENSEN '58, FAY ANDERSON, TOM ANDERSON '57, DUNCAN HARRIS '57. 5. WENDY HILTONWOOD, BARBARA HOLDER. 6. KEN JASPER '55. 7. GRAEME BOYKETT '62. 8. SANDRA DICK. 9. DAVID MACDONALD '65, BEVERLEY BRIESE. 10. DOUG LORDING '64, PHILLIP JONES '63, SAIRUNG WANGSPA. 11. JAN DIMMICK. 12. PETER TURNLEY '58, HUGH TAYLOR '64. 13. DAVID ASHTON '65. 14. JOHN MATHEW '53.
4.
6.
5.
8. 11.
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9.
7.
10. 12.
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14.
About 90 members of the East Melbourne Glen Chapter and their guests met for cocktails and canapés in the very pleasant surroundings of the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall at Scotch on the balmy late summer evening of 17 February, hosted by EMG President, Ken Jasper AM (’55). Ken Jasper welcomed members and guests, expressing the relief felt by all present that they could meet again as a group after so much separation and isolation caused by the COVID pandemic, and thanking the EMG members for their unwavering support for Scotch. He pointed out that he had been specially provided with a footstool to enable him to speak on equal terms with the very tall Scotch Foundation President, Associate Professor Doug Lording AM (’64), who also attended the event. To the amusement of the group, Doug then stood on the footstool himself, exponentially elevating his height. Speaking to the group, Doug reiterated Ken Jasper’s thanks to EMG members for their unstinting support, and welcomed several Old Boys who were attending their first function as EMG members. Foundation Bequest Manager, Sandra Dick said she was looking forward to welcoming members and partners to the EMG Easter Chapel Service on 5 April, the Winter Luncheon on 15 June, and the Christmas Luncheon on 16 December. Guests mingled inside and outside the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall, enjoying the opportunity to meet and greet each other after the COVID-enforced separation of the previous two years. Thanks go to Sandra Dick and Foundation Coordinator, Rebecca Mortimer, for organising a most successful and thoroughly enjoyable event.
THE RIOLI FAMILY INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIP SOMETHING SPECIAL IS HAPPENING AT SCOTCH ON THURSDAY 26 MAY OUR GOAL: TO RAISE $2M IN 24 HOURS!
1.
2.
OUR SET PLAY: TO ENDOW THREE RIOLI FAMILY INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS IN PERPETUITY OUR GAME PLAN: TO OPEN THE DOORS TO SCOTCH FOR INDIGENOUS STUDENTS FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA
3.
4.
TO DONATE ONLINE VISIT www.charidy.com/riolischolarship 1. CYRIL "JUNIOR" RIOLI ('07) 2. SHANNON RIOLI ('09) 3. STEWART RIOLI ('07) 4. MAURICE RIOLI ('20)
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FOUNDATION SEATED, LEFT TO RIGHT: ANNE MCARTHUR, CHRISTOPHER MCARTHUR (’55), ANDREW WILSON (’78), DOROTA BRYKS, RUTH MARSHALL, LEX MARSHALL (’55), GEOFF PATON (’57). STANDING, LEFT TO RIGHT: JOHN WISELY (’65), TIM SHEARER (’85), ANTHONY TEASDALE (’94), JULIAN MARTIN (’76), JAMES PLUNKETT-COLE (’61), JOHN DE RAVIN (’73), JAMES ALLT-GRAHAM (’90), SANDRA DICK, MAX KITSON (‘90), RICHARD LIEBMANN (’68), KAZ NAITO (’89)
KAZ NAITO (’89), MAX KITSON (’90), JAMES ALLT-GRAHAM (’90)
FOUNDATION LUNCH AT ROYAL SYDNEY GOLF CLUB FELLOWSHIP AND MUCH MERRIMENT
LEFT TO RIGHT: RICHARD LIEBMANN (’68), JOHN WISELY (’65), GEOFF PATON (’57), SANDRA DICK, WILL HALLIDAY – KINGS SCHOOL, JAMES PLUNKETTCOLE (’61)
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The Royal Sydney Golf Club was a most salubrious venue for a Scotch Foundation Lunch on Friday 25 March, attended by 20 Old Boys, the guests of club member, Geoff Paton (’57). The Old Boys ranged in era from Lex Marshall, a member of the Class of 1954, to James Allt-Graham, from the Class of 1990. There was plenty of merriment as the Old Boys recalled memorable times from their Scotch schooldays. Director of Development, Tim Shearer (’85), gave a presentation on the School – past, present and future – which was followed by an interesting discussion and the opportunity for questions. Julian Martin (’76), Chairman of SecondBite, one of Australia’s largest food rescue organisations, spoke about the charity and how it was started by Old Scotch Collegians, most notably Ian Carson (’76) and his wife, Simone. All present were very impressed by the philanthropy and world success of these Old Scotch Collegians. A business network lunch is planned later in the year for Old Boys starting their careers in Sydney. More information: Sandra Dick: sandra.dick@scotch.vic.edu.au.
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TOM BATT Y SCHOL ARSHIP
Honouring 14 years of outstanding leadership The School, with the support of the Scotch College Foundation, is establishing the Tom Batty Scholarship, to honour Tom Batty’s outstanding leadership of Scotch College over the past 14 years. The Scholarship will be officially launched at the Scotch College Foundation AGM and President’s Dinner in the Boykett Room in the Cardinal Pavilion on Thursday 12 May. This perpetual scholarship will be awarded to boys with a proficiency in Mathematics. The scholarship will also reflect Tom’s passion for and commitment to young people, and will provide a lasting legacy of his educational leadership and achievements. The Foundation is seeking to raise $800,000 to create the Tom Batty Scholarship. To date we are halfway there, with $400,000 having been generously committed to the fund. We hope to raise the balance by 30 June. Donations can be made by way of a oneoff gift or a five-year pledge at any of the Foundation membership levels. Donations to the Scotch College Foundation Scholarship Fund are tax deductible. Please join with us by making a commitment to the Tom Batty Scholarship, and help to celebrate Tom’s commitment to Scotch, as we look to open the doors to Scotch for boys who would otherwise be unable to attend the School. More information about the scholarship, and how you can support it, is included in the brochure that accompanies this edition of Great Scot. The brochure includes a donation form. For more information, or to discuss a donation or pledge, please contact the Director of Development, Tim Shearer, via email: tim. shearer@scotch.vic.edu.au, or mobile: +61 418 107 541.
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FOUNDATION
LEFT TO RIGHT: FOUNDATION PRESIDENT DOUG LORDING '64, LIZ LORDING, BERYL BLACK, SANDRA DICK, SAIRUNG WANGSPA, PHILLIP JONES '63, RICHARD GROOM '57, ROSS KING, KEITH HEALE '63, SCOTCH ARCHIVIST, PAUL MISHURA
A BEQUEST – AN INVESTMENT IN THE SCHOOL’S FUTURE ENSURING THAT SCOTCH WILL ALWAYS OFFER A DISTINCTIVE EDUCATION The Foundation runs a number of Bequest Luncheons each year to enable members of the Scotch Family to learn more about how bequests have impacted Scotch’s past, present and future, and about how people can include either Scotch College or the Scotch College Foundation in their Wills. The most recent Bequest Luncheon was held on Wednesday 16 February and we were delighted to host a number of guests, including Foundation President Doug Lording (’64) and his wife, Liz. Generations of Scotch boys have benefited from the generosity of men and women who, over the years, have bequeathed gifts to the School or to the Scotch College Foundation. These gifts have had a profound impact on the lives of Scotch boys, through
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scholarship opportunities, by developing teaching and learning facilities, and by supporting staff and the School’s programs. A gift in a Will can be a way of saying thank you, honouring a loved and respected relative, recognising a valued member of staff or friend, investing in the future, or providing a Scotch education for those whose families otherwise cannot afford it. From Scotch’s earliest days in the heady atmosphere of the gold rush of the 1850s, its leaders have had the foresight and wisdom to plot the best course to stimulate boys’ minds and bodies. Strong traditions breed values of integrity, compassion and service, while educational research delivers an innovative curriculum promoting curiosity and self-worth. Embracing the inherent value of each person, boys ponder how the world came
to be as it is, and how it might be made to evolve for the greater good. We are fortunate to have extensive grounds, exceptional facilities and staff members of real commitment who, in building relationships of trust and intimacy, create the space for our boys to question, initiate and lead. A bequest to Scotch is an investment in the School’s future, and an effective way to ensure the School will continue to offer a distinctive education that prepares boys for the challenges of their generation. If you would like to be included in one of these luncheons please contact Bequest Program Manager Sandra Dick by phone on +61 3 98104163 or by email at sandra.dick@ scotch.vic.edu.au.
DEVELOPMENT
BOARDING PROJECT UP AND RUNNING
TRANSFORMING BOARDING FACILITIES ON THE HILL Enhancement works in the boarding precinct have commenced, and rapid progress has been made as we look to improve the facilities for boys and staff who live on the Hill. At the time of writing, the Year 12 accommodation ‘backblocks’ behind McMeckan and School Houses have been gutted in preparation for their extensive refurbishment and connection to their respective houses. It is hoped the Boarding Project will be complete in readiness for the 2023 school year. This project demonstrates the School’s commitment to boarding’s place at the heart of a Scotch education. The Boarding Project will transform boarding facilities on the Hill for boys, staff and boarding families. Improved accommodation for boys and staff associated with McMeckan and School Houses, and a new Boarding Centre, will significantly enrich the lives of all who call the Hill home. There are seven stages of work, some of which have been completed in recent years: • Dean of Boarding Residence (Isabella Lawson Lodge – completed 2018) • Refurbishment of Boarders’ Dining Hall (completed 2019) • Creation of new laundry (completed 2022) • Refurbishment, extension and integration of McMeckan and School House boarding wings (in progress) • Conversion of the old laundry into a new Boarding Centre (to commence this year) • Creation of a village green (2023) • Reinstatement of Callantina/Glenferrie Road gates to commemorate the centenary of the School’s move to Hawthorn (2024) A fundraising target of $7.5M has been established for this project, and thanks to the generosity of our community, I report that $3.6M in commitments has been secured at the time of writing. To learn more about the Boarding Project, and how you can help bring it to fruition, contact Director of Development Tim Shearer +61 418 107541 or tim.shearer@scotch.vic.edu.au.
TOP: THE NEW MCMECKAN BOARDING HOUSE EXTENSION. MIDDLE LEFT: TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION FOR THE YEAR 12 BOYS ON THE BOARDERS' DINING HALL LAWN. MIDDLE RIGHT: THE REFURBISHMENT WORK BEGINS. 4. THE NEW BOARDING CENTRE.
THE
BOAR D I NG PROJECT
* Architectural renders are correct at time of printing and are subject to change.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 69
DEVELOPMENT
ALL 12 HOUSES NOW HAVE A DEDICATED ROOM
A PLACE TO CALL HOME
ALL 12 HOUSES NOW HAVE A DEDICATED ROOM
As the 2022 academic year got underway, four of our Senior School Houses found a new home around St Andrew’s Square. The result of a major redesign of the ground floor of the Language building, the House rooms provide a space for students in Eggleston, Field, Fleming and Littlejohn to meet, and include locker facilities and a kitchenette. There are also tables that are used for study, eating lunch or playing games. Each room opens up onto the square, with easy access to the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall. Towards the back of each room is an office for the Head of House. Boys have warmly welcomed the new rooms. Previously these Houses had lockers located in the main Quadrangle, and they often needed to visit other House rooms to use their amenities. In particular the refreshingly cool drinking water and instant boiling water have been appreciated. Being able to store their food in a fridge and then use the microwave to warm it up has made lunchtime meals more palatable. Before and after school, boys can be found completing work, while at lunchtime they are often battling out electronic games, strategically playing chess, or just enjoying a chat. The new facilities provide a great way to get everyone together. Boys from different year levels are mixing, and there is a greater sense of belonging to their House. The House colours and name feature in the designs above the sink, helping to provide an identity to each room. Already Heads of Houses have decorated the rooms with House photographs, mottos and flags. All 12 Houses now have a dedicated room, all located around the back quadrangle – two in the western corners of the main Quadrangle, six in the former Junior Science building and the four newest rooms in the Language building. The remaining space in the ground floor of the Language building has been used for five staff offices, a meeting room, a secretarial office and toilets for staff and students DAVID BROWN – DEAN OF STUDENTS
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OSCA
A CATCH-UP YEAR FOR OSCA 2022 events program includes reunions for groups that missed out in 2020 or 2021 MR ANDREW WILSON ('78) OSCA PRESIDENT
A cardiac arrest* is an emphatic reminder of what’s important – and thus began OSCA’s year. Happily, Scott Montgomery (’85), OSCA’s longserving Executive Director, survived, and the tales are not sad to tell. The news travelled at Internet speed along multiple paths, with all manner of Scotch Family and friends showing support and concern. Accommodation for Scott’s family was quickly found and the helicopter was met. As further illustration, Scott was touched to receive a phone call from Bill Morgan (’34), a man literally twice Scott’s age. As Bill relates, ‘Scott’s been a good friend to me’. Such is the Cardinal Thread and OSCA’s priorities: reasons to connect, ways to connect and opportunities to give back. The reins of Executive Director were quickly picked up by OSCA’s Treasurer, Philip Wright (’69). OSCA is indebted, as the role is very busy and multifaceted. Some parts of the role were seamlessly picked up by Caroline Taylor and Will Dixon (’19) – and past Executive Director Tim Shearer (’85) has contributed significantly. We are grateful to them all. And we needed them immediately: decadal reunions resumed in earnest on 28 January, and others quickly followed. This is a catch-up year, when OSCA runs its 2022 events program plus reunions for the groups that missed out in 2020 or 2021. Surely border closures and lockdowns are behind us: why not plan some holidays or weekends so you can join us at the Perth dinner (2 September) or the Northeast (9 October)? Or at the other distant events. Just because we can. The Old Scotch clubs are also catching up on their anniversaries. Thus far the centenary of the Old Scotch Football Club has been celebrated (in the MCC Members’ Dining Room), and the half-century of the Old Scotch Bowls Club. Both these events have featured a piper from the Old Scotch Pipes and Drums, notably sporting the band’s new kilts in OSCA tartan, courtesy OSCA. Reengaging with face-to-face events revives the joys of encountering: without planning, and beyond what planning enables, we encounter friends and acquaintances, and initiate new friendships, too. For encounters we keep talking about OSCA House – and 2022 is surely its debut year. If you’re invited be sure to accept – but don’t wait, pop in anyway.
OSCA PRESIDENT ANDREW WILSON (’78), RIGHT, AT THE OSCA 41 YEAR REUNION ON 1 APRIL. HE IS CHATTING WITH ANDREW LLOYD (’81), MC OF THE EVENT.
And, for encounters and relationships, what greater proponent than Principal Tom Batty? When Tom departs Scotch in June he will have influenced Old Boys across current, future and past generations. Current and recent generations have been shaped by Tom’s presence directly. Future generations will still experience his influence through the School’s structures, both hard (such the creation of House Rooms around the Keon-Cohen Dining Hall and informal spaces in the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science) and soft (his reshaping of the House system and emphasis on safety and relational learning). Old Boys from past generations have benefited from Tom’s heartfelt apologies to individual Old Boys who had been abused while under the School’s care. More generally, a standout opportunity for encounters between Tom and the Old Boys has been OSCA’s Annual Dinner. There Tom has regaled humorous tall tales, delivered the customary jibe at the rival schools, and – despite the late hour – snuck in some serious comments about learning and education. Tom’s final address to Old Boys will be on 27 May but we hope he continues the long tradition of esteemed past Principals attending many future dinners. Until then, au revoir and well done, Tom! In closing, a further flagship will be the Gala Dinner of the Melbourne Tartan Festival, on 23 July, which is always fabulous. After a two-year hiatus of major events I look forward to us all being together again, en masse! *For clarity, in Scott’s case the cause is attributed to COVID-19, not a heart attack.
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OSCA
MR PHILIP WRIGHT ('69) ACTING OSCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
‘NORMAL’ TRANSMISSION RESUMES – WELL, ALMOST NORMAL A full program of OSCA events is planned for 2022 This year commenced with the sad news that OSCA Executive Director, Scott Montgomery (’85), had suffered a major cardiac arrest when returning from holidays. It is thought that the cardiac arrest was caused by COVID. Quick work by Scott’s wife, Rowena, a passer-by and a defibrillator dispatched by the fire brigade allowed Scott to be airlifted to the Geelong Hospital; he is now resting at home, but a date for his return to work is not known. Fortunately, he has started a rehabilitation program and he continues to make progress. We trust Scott makes a full recovery, and look forward to seeing his smiling face at OSCA House very soon. Two years of lockdowns created a significant backlog of reunions and resulted in the cancellation of other events, such as the 2020 and 2021 OSCA Annual Dinners. The OSCA team, comprising Caroline Taylor and Will Dixon (’19), has worked extremely hard to start the catch-up process of holding our reunions. Thus far, OSCA has hosted a combined reunion for the Classes of 2015, 2016 and 2017 on 28 January, a drinks event for the Class of 2021 on 15 February, a combined reunion for the Classes of 2010, 2011 and 2012 on 25 February, and reunions for the Class of 1980 on 25 March and the Class of 1981 on 1 April. Other recent initiatives include Sydney Branch drinks on 24 March, and additions to the series of podcasts and the OSCA club promotional videos. (A report and photos appear in this section.) Speaking of the Class of 2021, we cannot forget its Valedictory Dinner hosted by OSCA in December, 2021 at the Caulfield Racecourse. (A report and photos appear below.) Another annual OSCA event, the 2021 Presidents’ Dinner, was cancelled and the annual general meeting was once again forced online, in November 2021. OSCA Councillors Pauline Westmore (past staff), Andrew Coates (‘85) and James Paterson (‘93) resigned from
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the OSCA Council, and we thank them most sincerely for their voluntary time devoted to the Council and its committees. Mark Tolson (’73) and Nick Schiffer (‘88) were elected to the Council and we look forward to their contribution to the Council.
THE OSCA PODCAST The OSCA podcast continues to be a successful project within OSCA’s digital strategy, reaching up to 400 unique listeners per episode. Late in 2021, hosts Lachie Strathmore (‘15) and Scott Montgomery (‘85) spoke with Old Boy Charles Pruden (’15) about his experiences in politics. On Friday 28 February the ninth episode was released, featuring Charlie Howcroft (’15) and Tom Sutherland (’16), who spoke about their experience setting up a small business. In mid-2020, Charlie and Tom, alongside their business partner, Freddie Young, set up their own business, Good One Creative, specialising in brand development, content production and creative communication. Charlie and Tom spoke with Lachie about the challenges of setting up a small business, from building a brand identity, finding an office space, managing finances and working with clients to build strong business relationships. Both boys reflected on their pathway to small business ownership, discussing how, despite not having a clear vision of where they wanted to go following school, over time their collective experiences led them to the creation of Good One Creative. You can listen to the podcast here: https://open. spotify.com/show/78WUHo5I7zcRX7mUQuQDlb
OSCA CLUB PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS OSCA continues to work with its 25 clubs and societies to encourage engagement and connection with
Old Boys. As part of this, throughout 2022 OSCA will be releasing a series of videos highlighting the activities of our clubs and societies. The first, which features the Old Scotch Pipes and Drums, can be viewed here: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCaV-89s-Zs The next video in the pipeline promotes the Old Scotch Soccer Club, and will be released very soon.
VALEDICTORY DINNER Despite changing COVID restrictions creating uncertainty around the planning of the Class of 2021 Valedictory Dinner, with only five weeks to plan the OSCA team hosted a successful event at the Caulfield Racecourse for 570 boys, their parents and teachers. Highlights included Valedictory Dinner traditions such as the Haggis Ceremony, performed by Charlie LinesPerrier (’21), performances from the Cardinals, Scotch staff member and musician, Michael Waugh, and the Scotch College Pipes and Drums, as well as the mother and son dance to close the evening. Given the turbulent final two years of schooling faced by this Year 12 group, the evening provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate each boy’s Scotch journey and contribution to his School.
YOUNG OLD BOYS The Young Old Boy sub-committee met in early February and is currently working on a number of initiatives to support Old Boys who have finished Year 12 in the past 10 years. The Young Old Boys will hold a number of professional development sessions in the coming months, looking at resumé and cover letter writing, developing a LinkedIn profile, interview skills, and information sessions about the graduate application process. The committee has also compiled a list of Young Old Boy contacts from various courses, universities and apprenticeships to assist the Class of 2021 as they commence tertiary study. The committee also plans to assist with more targeted marketing of the OSCAconnect platform to the Young Old Boy community, promoting the benefits of the mentoring feature and jobs board. PHILIP WRIGHT (‘69) – ACTING OSCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OSCA REUNIONS ARE BACK
SAVE THE DATE
Save the date for your class reunion. If you would like to be involved and rally support, please get in touch with the OSCA office.
OLD SCOTCH COLLEGIANS’ ASSOCIATION
The Annual Dinner is back!
ANNUAL DINNER 2022
CLASS OF 1982
Friday 27 May Leonda by the Yarra
Friday 19 August 2022
(See page 89 for more information)
40 YEAR
CLASS OF 1960, 1961 & 1962
60, 61 & 62 YEAR
Friday 18 November 2022
CLASS OF 1970, 1971, 1972
50, 51 & 52 YEAR Friday 25 November 2022
BRANCH EVENTS ARE ON, TOO SAVE THE DATE SCOTCH COLLEGE, the OLD SCOTCH RUGBY CLUB and the SCRUM CLUB are celebrating the 90th anniversary of Victorian school rugby with a weekend of events, including a match between the Scotch and Melbourne Grammar School 1st XVs on the main Oval at Scotch on Saturday 28 May. This will be preceded by a 90th anniversary lunch on Friday 27 May at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. To book for the lunch or for more information about the events, contact Jason Andrew (0413 046 965) or Rick Boykett (0412 601 538). Not to be missed!
Here are the save the date notes for your branch event: ADELAIDE 31 May BENDIGO 5 August CANBERRA 25 August PERTH 2 September RUTHERGLEN/ NE VICTORIA 9 October BELLARINE 6 November
OSMaD’S NEXT PERFORMANCE THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL
December 2022
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 73
OSCA Chaplain
DEDICATED TO PRINCIPAL I TOM BATTY
THE MEANING OF LIFE: AN UPDATE
In 1972 Leonard Cohen sang Last Year’s Man, a song about Jesus. He sings: The corners of the blueprint are ruined since they rolled /far past the stems of thumbtacks that still throw shadows in the wood … Was there ever really a blueprint? I think yes. All my life I have known the Bible, and as a teenager I was introduced to its narrative coherence, despite the obvious diversity of documents written by multiple authors over a period of more than 1000 years. It all points to Jesus. I think Cohen wanted there to be a blueprint, too. But he came from a different and more difficult place. ‘Good morning Graham’, said Ken, cheerily, interrupting my thoughts as he arrived early for our coffee gathering. ‘I’ve been meaning to ask you: what is the meaning of life?’ As Monty Python flashed into my mind, Jim and Bob arrived. These ‘retired’ men are all part of a weekly conversational coffee time. Interrupted thus, I haven’t yet replied to Ken, who is Old Scotch, and about my age. What should I have said to him? ‘There is a blueprint’? How might I go about it? Then there is Phil, now retired, who said he used to think there was meaning and purpose, but he’s no longer sure. His faith has taken a hit. Its familiar culprits: What about the illnesses of children? Who could
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sanction the violence and brutality in the texts? Don’t we make our own meaning? Indeed, who should preside over the making of meaning? This is the question posed in The Chair. It’s a comedy/drama, now among the ‘most viewed’ on Netflix, but neither too funny nor overly dramatic. It depicts how a dominantly white male faculty at Pembroke College responds to its first black female head, Dr Ji-Yoon Kim, played by Sandra Oh. Charged as humanity faculties are with making meaning by interpreting texts, events, history, and peoples’ lives, this humanities faculty is a caricature of the very notion. It presents ageing white men floundering in their aim of upholding the status quo: white male dominance over everything. That’s the very pointy end. And a point close to the centre of innumerable conversations with our esteemed and alas, departing Principal. In the light of our shared Christian commitment at Scotch, we explored songs, poetry, drama, film and novels; they peppered our many chats after chapel and post-assembly conversations. Tom: thank you for such sharing of yourself. Meanwhile, in her sense-seeking review of The Chair, journalist, Clare Millar Colombo, in The Christian Century, writes: ‘Standing dazed and disoriented in the crater of
a collapsed paradigm, the academic humanities – the secular remnants of the Great Chain of Being – have struggled to maintain integrity. Without a metanarrative, what can disjointed human narratives possibly mean? … Who should preside over the meaning making?’ She suggests that a humanities faculty without metaphysics will swing between the nihilism and despair of a world without meaning (think Waiting for… you know whom) and the powerful egos asserting that meaning comes from the state (left or right), or whomsoever has a power that may challenge it. Colombo rejects both of these trends and suggests there is a way by which a shared desire to belong can unite. She writes: ‘The salvation that Pembroke waits for, miserably but with energy, is a new way to make meaning, one that is neither hierarchical, absurdist, nor totalitarian but rather grounded, relational, and true. One that is hopeful.’ To which we say ‘Amen’. What could be more grounded, relational, true and hopeful than the way of Jesus? He spoke to those primary concerns of the Hebrew Scriptures: love for God with love for neighbour, and he showed how costly stepping down to such servanthood could be. A kind of power inversion. Could an old, old story be awaiting uptake by a new generation, or even an old one? Cohen kept up his search for spiritual coherence. His final album, You Want It Darker? became the subject of a YouTube clip by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. On hearing of Cohen’s death in 2016 he issued a 10-minute YouTube clip from his New York City hotel room, calling it ‘a song for our times’. He shows You want it Darker? is deeply rooted in the Hebrew text of Genesis 22 where the Hebrew word hineni (meaning ‘here I am’) is repeated three times. He points to Cohen’s use of this word as a lyric refrain. A touching and repeated offering of oneself: ‘Here I am’. In his early song, Last Year’s Man, Leonard Cohen left the benediction to the female chorus. In a rising crescendo the women sing: But everything will happen if he only gives the word/the lovers will rise up, and the mountains touch the ground. It’s time for the lovers to rise up and say ‘here I am’. For God’s sake, and for our neighbours’ GRAHAM BRADBEER – OSCA CHAPLAIN
HONOURING SCOTCH’S ROYAL SOCIETY FELLOWS PLAQUE UNVEILED IN THE CENTRE FOR SCIENCE’S PETER HENDERSON FOYER On the evening of 1 March, in front of a galaxy of Scotch people of science, a plaque was unveiled in the Peter Henderson Foyer of the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre for Science, listing the seven Old Scotch Collegians who have been made Fellows of the Royal Society, London. Scotch’s only living Fellow of the Royal Society, Professor Andrew Holmes AC (’61) unveiled the plaque, together with the wives of two other Scotch Fellows of the Royal Society: Gwen Head, wife of Dr Alan Head AO (’42), and Margaret Spence, wife of Professor John Spence (’64). Margaret had flown from California to attend the event. After Director of Development Tim Shearer (’85) opened proceedings, Principal Tom Batty warmly welcomed guests. In a video clip, Dr Julie Maxton CBE, Executive Director of the Royal Society, congratulated Scotch for producing seven Royal Society Fellows, pointing out that fellowship was an honour of which the School could justifiably be proud. School Captain Tommy Livadaras read biographies of each of the seven Old Scotch Collegian Fellows, after which Tim Shearer introduced Professor Andrew Holmes, many of whose relatives – from six-month-old grandson Christopher to 100-year-old uncle, Ted Holmes (’39, currently Scotch’s seventh-oldest known living Old Boy) – were present. Professor Holmes' nephew, Alistair Harkness ('05) who joined Scotch's teaching staff this year, was also present. Professor Holmes took as his theme that ‘chance favours the prepared mind’. He spoke of the great preparation for life he had received at Scotch through the inspired teaching he experienced, and also cited the scientific achievements of Royal Society Fellows Alan Head and John Spence. Next, Gwen Head amused the audience with her description of the day her husband, Alan, signed the Royal Society’s Charter Book (see the box on page 73). Alan was required to wear white gloves, and to ‘practise’ several times before actually signing the book. Blotters were handy in case any stray ink made its way onto the 360-year-old pages. Professor Holmes, Gwen Head and Margaret Spence unveiled the plaque, after which Scotch’s Head of Science, Kerrie Ardley, thanked guests. Tours of the Centre for Science led by senior Scotch boys were conducted, and guests conversed convivially over canapes and drinks. The unveiling event was a wonderful opportunity to bring together members of Scotch’s science community to honour the lives and achievements of seven great Scotch men of science.
1. 1. PIPER, JOHN PARRIS (YEAR 10) 2. GWEN HEAD (WIFE OF DR ALAN HEAD AO FRS (’42)) 3. PROFESSOR ANDREW HOLMES AC FRS (’60) 4. IAN RENARD AM (’63), PROFESSOR HUGH TAYLOR AC (’64) 5. GWEN HEAD, MARGARET SPENCE (WIFE OF PROFESSOR JOHN SPENCE FORMEMRS (’63)) AND MARGARET’S SON, ANDREW SPENCE
3. 5.
2.
4.
OSCA 1. DR JULIE MAXTON CBE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ROYAL SOCIETY 2. GWEN HEAD, MARGARET SPENCE, ANDREW SPENCE 3.GEOFF PATON (’57), WENDY HILTON-WOOD, BARBARA HOLDER 4. DR GORDON DONALDSON AM, MICHAEL SIM (’78), TIM SHEARER (’85), JOYCE DONALDSON 5. PROFESSOR ANDREW GLEADOW AO (’65) 6. TOM BATTY, JENNIFER HOLMES, PROFESSOR ANDREW HOLMES AC FRS (’60), AMELIA HOLMES, THOMAS HOLMES, TIM HOLMES, EVELYN HOLMES, JESSICA HOLMES (HOLDING CHRISTOPHER HOLMES).
1.
WHAT IS THE ROYAL SOCIETY?
3.
2.
4. 6.
5.
The Royal Society is the United Kingdom's national academy of sciences. Founded on 28 November 1660, it is a fellowship of many of the world's most eminent scientists, and is the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence. The Royal Society promotes science and its benefits, recognises excellence in science, supports outstanding science, provides scientific advice for policy, and fosters international and global cooperation, education and public engagement. The Royal Society's core members are the Fellows: scientists and engineers from the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, their selection based on having made ‘a substantial contribution to the improvement of natural knowledge, including mathematics, engineering science and medical science’. Up to 52 Fellows are elected each year. Fellows are elected for life and are entitled to use the postnominal FRS (Fellow of the Royal Society) or ForMemRS (Foreign Member of the Royal Society). There are 1600 Fellows and 140 Foreign Members. Nullius in verba, the Royal Society’s motto, means 'take nobody's word for it', an expression of the determination of Fellows to withstand the domination of authority, and to verify all statements by an appeal to facts determined by experiment. The Royal Society’s Charter Book is arguably the Society’s most important single historical document. The book was created in 1663 after King Charles II granted a second Royal Charter to the organisation, establishing the structure of the Royal Society. Since the first signature was entered on its pages on 9 January 1665, the fine vellum folio has recorded the signatures of new Fellows and Foreign Members as they were elected year by year, as well as those of Royal Patrons. Seven Old Scotch Collegians have signed the Charter Book as Fellows of the Royal Society: Sir Neil Hamilton Fairley KBE CBE FRS (SC 1905-08) Sir Thomas MacFarland Cherry FRS FAA (SC 1908-14) Professor Richard Henry Dalitz FRS (SC1938-41) Dr Alan Kenneth Head AO FRS FAA (SC 1941-42) Dr John Robert Philip AO FRS FAA (SC 1939-42) Professor Andrew Bruce Holmes AC FRS FAA FTSE (SC 1954-61) Professor John Charles Howorth Spence ForMemRS FAA (SC 1954-64)
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A TOWERING IMAGE OF A GREAT AUSTRALIAN A WATER TOWER MURAL IN COUNTRY VICTORIA PAYS TRIBUTE TO SIR JOHN MONASH When engineer and citizen-soldier John Monash designed a water tower for the small Victorian township of Tatura, 167km north of Melbourne, prior to World War I, he could never have imagined that more than 100 years later the tower would carry an immense image of him as a World War I soldier. Monash (SC 1877-81) designed the 364,000 litre capacity tower in May 1911 for the Tatura Waterworks Trust (now Goulburn Valley Water), and construction was completed in April 1912. It is the earliest surviving example of a reinforced concrete tower of its kind in Victoria. Every drop of water used in Tatura is still reticulated through the tower. Inspired by artworks included in Victoria’s 200km Silo Art Trail, $45,000 was raised locally through government grants and community fundraising, led by members of the Tatura Returned Services League, and Rotary, supported by local residents. The mural was created by artists Cam Scale and Andrew Davis, and features a waterfall of poppies on the opposite side of the tower, as a tribute to the region’s Anzac legacy. Signage honours the site’s history, tells the story of water supply to Tatura over the years, and honours the life and legacy of Sir John Monash. Three and a half years in the making, with delays caused by COVID and bad weather, the mural was officially unveiled on 27 June 2021 in the presence of local dignitaries, RSL representatives, Tatura residents and Michael Bennett (SC 1968-73), Sir John’s greatgrandson and a member of the General Sir John Monash Foundation. The foundation provides postgraduate scholarships for outstanding Australians to further their studies anywhere in the world. Mr Bennett said: ‘I think it’s wonderful that there will be a lasting tribute in Tatura to Sir John’s achievements as an engineer, soldier and nation-builder, and that people can continue to learn about his legacy, particularly in regard to his pioneering work in prestressed concrete for water towers like this, for generations to come’. Robert Mathieson, Tatura Sub-Branch Mural Committee Chairman, said the project honours the region’s history and is a colourful addition to the town’s landscape. ‘It will add to the town’s vitality, and we hope it will draw more people to visit Tatura,’ he said.
TOP: MICHAEL BENNETT (’73) WITH HIS WIFE KATE STOCKWIN, WHO IS A MUSIC TEACHER AT SCOTCH THIS PHOTO: ARTISTS CAM SCALE AND ANDREW DAVIS AT WORK ON THE MONASH MURAL. BELOW: A WATERFALL OF POPPIES ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE TOWER – A TRIBUTE TO THE TATURA REGION’S ANZAC LEGACY BELOW RIGHT: MICHAEL BENNETT (’73) SPEAKS AT THE OFFICIAL UNVEILING OF THE TATURA WATER TOWER MURAL
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OSCA
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS, 2022 We congratulate the Scotch Family members who are known to have received 2022 Australia Day honours. Below are their names and citations. OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AO)
and to education.
1. Dr Susan Lesley Barrell AO (past Scotch parent) Dr Barrell received her award for distinguished service to earth science through meteorology and research organisations.
8. Dr James Humphrey La Nauze AM (’66) Dr La Nauze received his award for significant service to ophthalmology, and to not-for-profit organisations.
2. Dr Tom Beer AO (past parent) Dr Beer received his award for distinguished service to science, particularly environmental risk, climate processes and sustainability through research organisations.
9. Professor Elsdon Storey AM (’72) Professor Storey received his award for significant service to medicine in the field of neurology, and to professional associations.
3. Mr Graham John Tuckwell AO (past Scotch parent, past Scotch College Council member) Mr Tuckwell received his award for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic support of education scholarships, and to business. 4. Dr Louise Tuckwell AO (past Scotch parent) Dr Tuckwell received her award for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic support of education scholarships. 5. Mr Mark James Wootton AO (’78) Mr Wootton received his award for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic support for a range of organisations, and to the environment.
MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AM) 6. Dr Andrew Edward Cattermole AM (past Scotch parent) Dr Cattermole received his award for significant service to dentistry through periodontics education, and to professional organisations. 7. Professor Prudence Ann Caroline Francis AM (past Scotch parent) Professor Francis received her award for significant service to medical research in the field of oncology,
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MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (OAM) 10. Mr Gregory Errol Blashki OAM (’66) Mr Blashki received his award for service to the Jewish community. 11. Mr John Robertson Coppock OAM (’50) Mr Coppock received his award for service to the pharmacy profession. 12. Mr Alister John (John) Forsyth OAM (’55) Mr Forsyth received his award posthumously for service to the community of Wollombi Valley. 13. Mr Phillip Sydney Jones OAM (’63) Mr Jones received his award for service to oenology. 14. Dr Anthony Edward Francis (Tony) Michaelson OAM (’69 and past Scotch parent) Dr Michaelson received his award for service to the community through alcohol and drug use prevention programs. 15. Ms Lucy Stephan OAM (current Scotch staff) Ms Stephan received her award for service to sport as a gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.
16. Dr James Neil Taylor OAM (’76) Dr Taylor received his award for service to emergency medicine, and to the community.
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TARTAN FESTIVAL MAKES A WELCOME COMEBACK All things Scottish take centre stage as festival resumes 80 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
The Scots are coming to town! After two long years, the skirl of pipes will again echo through the streets and laneways of Melbourne from 3 to 23 July during the Melbourne Tartan Festival. In the lead-up to the festival, the Westin Whisky dinner will be held on Friday 17 June. Westin Melbourne’s Executive Chef has created a five-course menu, matched to five premium single malt whiskies from some of the world’s finest distilleries. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/ BTANH. On 10 July, Scotch’s Pipes and Drums and Old Scotch Pipes and Drums will participate in the massed pipe band Melbourne Tartan Day Parade on Collins Street, commencing at 2pm. There will be
CBD pop-up events, as well as dancing and music displays in Gordon Reserve on Spring Street, Melbourne, from 11am to 1pm. The Gala Dinner and Concert, always the premier event of the festival, will be held in the majestic main hall of the Melbourne Town Hall on Saturday 23 July, and will feature a seasonally inspired three-course gourmet menu and drinks. Dancing will be to the music of the City of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band, Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club, Highland Dancers and Celtic rock group Claymore. Bookings: https://www.trybooking. com/BQYJO. For more information about the festival and to view the program: www.melbournetartanfestival.com.au.
Past Staff Club
PAST STAFF CLUB’S SUCCESSFUL BRUNCH AT KOOYONG
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: KEN WHEAT, SYD BOYDELL, PAUL RUNTING, GRAHAM BRADBEER, GRAHAM PRATT FORMER VICE PRINCIPALS IAN SAVAGE AND DAVID HOSKING WITH PRINCIPAL TOM BATTY JON ABBOTT, IAN AND BEV SAVAGE, LEE BATTY DONNA DEL PORTO, STEPHEN RITCHIE, DURGA KAMTE, PAUL RUNTING, ANNE MARTIN JENNY LEE, BETTY LADBURY, LIZ PRATT, GILLIAN COMPORT, HUGH WILSON (’65) DON DAVENPORT, JOHN LEWIS, BARRY PRICE
First 2022 function attracts 60 guests The Old Scotch Past Staff Club was delighted to welcome an excellent attendance of 60 to its first function for 2022 – brunch at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club on Tuesday 1 March. Function organiser Ken Wheat welcomed guests, then club President Ian Savage conducted a brief AGM, during which he welcomed the club’s newest members, Tom and Lee Batty. The club now has more than 190 members. Planning is underway for more functions during the year, including a visit to the Melbourne Town Hall, a river cruise through Docklands and a Christmas Cocktail Party. Any former staff member wanting information about the club should contact the secretary at secretaryospsc@gmail.com
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SENIOR AND RESERVES PLAYERS AND COACHES AT PRESEASON TRAINING INSET: THE RESERVES ON THE RUGBY OVAL IN PRESEASON
Soccer
EAGERNESS AND EXCITEMENT AT THE PROSPECT OF A FULL SEASON
SOCCER CLUB’S QUEST FOR SUCCESS IN 2022 Following the successes of last year, the Old Scotch Soccer Club has embarked on a new quest for even more success in 2022. After two interrupted years, there is eagerness and excitement at the club about the possibility of a full season ahead. The club began its preseason strongly. The Seniors have a strong representation from the School this year, with about a quarter of the squad being Old Scotch Collegians. The squad has also gained several new players, including two Old Boys from the Class of 2019, Irfan Hrelja and Josh Allen. At the time of writing the Seniors had won all but one of their preseason matches, including winning their first game in the Australia Cup (formerly known as the FFA Cup). The team has a good mixture of youth and experience, and hopes to have a strong year after finishing on top of the ladder after 14 games in 2021. Joe Reed, a past player and former coach of the Thirds team, has returned this year as coach of the Reserves. With his experience and professionalism, the Reserves and any Old Boys wanting to play at the club will benefit from his coaching. The Reserves squad
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is looking strong, and at the time of writing was on three wins in a row in preseason (including a win over St Kevin's Old Boys Soccer Club senior team). The squad built momentum, fitness and match sharpness for the upcoming season. The club maintains a strong connection with the School, and welcomes Old Boys who are looking to develop and grow as players, and to be part of strong squads at a great club. Training is on the club's grounds at H A Smith Reserve. The club is also fielding junior teams for boys and girls in all age ranges. They are a fantastic way to learn and develop soccer skills and make new friends. Please email committee@ossc.com.au for any queries regarding joining the club. Finally, this year the Old Scotch Soccer Club will host a celebratory night to mark its 40th anniversary. More details will follow (including via OSCAconnect) once available. JASON CHOI (’07) – OLD SCOTCH SOCCER CLUB
FIFTY YEARS UP FOR BOWLS CLUB Bowls
THE CLUB CELEBRATED ITS HALF-CENTURY IN STYLE AT THE BOYKETT ROOM
TOP: BOWLS CLUB MEMBERS AND GUESTS AT THE CLUB’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION IN THE BOYKETT ROOM. MIDDLE: BOWLS CLUB SECRETARY DAVID TENNENT (’57) SPEAKS DURING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION. ABOVE: IAN MACFARLANE (’61), JAN MACFARLANE, JOHN VROLAND (’58), CHARLOTTE ENGLAND
After many COVID-related postponements, the Old Scotch Bowls Club was able to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the club with a gala luncheon in the Boykett Room of the Cardinal Pavilion on Sunday 6 March. The day was carefully planned to highlight the history of the club and pay tribute to the members who founded it back in December 1970, as well as to those members who during the next 50 years contributed to its growth. The Old Scotch Bowls Club was founded by a committee meeting in December 1970, at which a past Vice Principal of Scotch, Henry (Bosh) Bowden (SC 1901-07) was appointed foundation President, and Keith McKinley Wilson (SC 1921-27) became foundation Secretary when the club became an affiliated club of OSCA. The aim of the newly-formed club was to ‘gather old school mates together for friendly games on the greens and renew old friendships’. At the 50th anniversary luncheon a continuous slide show was shown on the big screen of people, bowls games and tournaments over many years, which brought back many happy memories to the members present, some of whom have been members of the club for many decades. There were two important guest speakers at the anniversary lunch. Club member Jim Donaldson, who is also the club’s historian, spoke passionately about the rich history of the club, how it has
maintained connection with the School, and the great friendships and camaraderie amongst the members of the Scotch Family who enjoy lawn bowls. OSCA President Andrew Wilson (’78) spoke about the role that OSCA and all its affiliated clubs play in the overall connection with the School, through a diverse range of sporting and other activities. The luncheon was voted a great success and enjoyed by all in attendance. On 2 February, the bowls club was victorious in its annual competition against the historic private West Brighton Club, which was established in 1881. For this year’s tournament, our club fielded a very strong team of 20 bowlers, and I am delighted to say that all four of our teams won their rinks and we won back the coveted Scighton Trophy. The successful morning’s bowling was followed by an excellent lunch in the historic clubhouse, where the West Brighton Club members made Old Scotch feel very welcome. Our club has vacancies for men and women who play bowls and would like to join us. We also warmly welcome non-bowlers who wish to learn to bowl and enjoy the friendship and fellowship of other members of the Scotch Family. Free beginners’ classes are available. To join or for more information please contact me on 0411 253 633 or david. tennent@bigpond.com. DAVID TENNENT (’57) – SECRETARY, OLD SCOTCH BOWLS CLUB
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LEFT: ED BEISCHER (’17) AND TOM BOWERS RUNNING IN THE VICTORIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 1500M FINAL. ABOVE: THE BRONZE MEDAL-WINNING UNDER 16 SPRINT RELAY TEAM – LACHLAN GUMLEY (YEAR 8), CONOR SULLIVAN (YEAR 9), HARRISON CAR, NATHAN MUNRO (YEAR 12)
Athletics
GOOD ATHLETICS PERFORMANCES OVER THE SUMMER The Old Scotch Athletics Club continued to perform well over the summer track and field season, with the club narrowly missing the finals. That was mainly because club athletics is now a numbers game, favouring the larger clubs with more athletes at their disposal. We, however, have quality across the board, as shown by the number of our athletes who performed admirably at the Victorian Championships and the 11 athletes who have qualified for the national trials. New members continue to make their mark and enhance the club’s reputation as a strong competitive unit. Standout performers were Tom Bowers, who won the Victorian under 20 5000m championship in 14.40, Bart Leeton (Scotch, Year 8) who won the Victorian under 14 1500m
84 Great Scot Issue 165 – April 2022
Quality across the board at Old Scotch Athletics Club
championship in 4.07, and Ed Beischer (’17) who came third in the open Victorian Milers championship. Many athletes performed personal bests over the season, with many of them looking forward to the National Championships in early April. Our relay teams performed strongly in the Victorian Relay Championships. The under 16 sprint medley team of Lachlan Gumley (Year 8), Conor Sullivan (Year 9), Harrison Car and Nathan Munro (Year 12) were third in 11.13.5. The under 18 sprint medley team of Ronghao Chen (Year 11), Mac Debeljak (Year 11), Rory Vial (Year 10) and Nathan Munro were fourth in 3.49.7. In the Zatopek 1500m final, Ed Beischer ran 3.52.8 and Tom Bowers 3.52.9. In interstate results, Ollie Moore (Year
9) came seventh in the final of the under 16 100m in 12.32, and was sixth in the final of the 200m in 24.14 at the Tasmanian Championships; and in the Victorian Championships, Olivia Nidigo-Scott came third in the discus. Other notable performances over the year were by Ashleigh Arnold (13.5 for the 100m and 4.50m for the long jump), Harrison Car, Hugo Stubbs (Year 8), Conor Sullivan, Olaoluwa Arogundade, Thomas Kluckow, Alex Shears-Jones and Sebastian Brasington (all of Year 11), Sam Allen (Year 9) and Jonny Giakoumis. They all trained well and improved over the season. In the Par 15, Tom Roach (Year 8) competed strongly. Eleven athletes qualified for the nationals, and the club is helping them in their endeavours. The main aim for the forthcoming 2022-23 season is to recruit more people to the club. We have the quality: we now need to focus on quantity. An advertising campaign will target all schools’ males and females in Hawthorn, Camberwell, Kew and Malvern. If you are interested in becoming involved in athletics, please contact Ian Handasyde (’70) on 0412 936 816 or Gregor Evans (’68) on 0439 006 493. A large thank you must go to our two specialist coaches, Dave Lightfoot (distance) and Gregor Evans (sprints/ hurdles). The results reflect their passion and direction in coaching their squads. With the track and field season completed, we athletes turn our attention to the cross country season, which began with the ‘Jamieson’ at Scotch on 9 April. If you’re interested in joining the club, please contact Pete Simm (’93) on 0407 965 560 or Mark Purvis (’74) on 0407 526 622. IAN HANDASYDE ('70) – OLD SCOTCH ATHLETICS CLUB
Seven grand final wins from 11 appearances in 15 years LEFT: THE OLD SCOTCH CRICKET CLUB 1ST XI – MCC CLUB XI DIVISION 1 PREMIERS, 2021/22. BACK ROW: SAM DAWBORN (’15), HAMISH FRANCIS (’21), WILL CLARK (’12), WILLIAM BONWICK (’16), HARRISON GOAD (’13). FRONT ROW: WILL HAYES, CAMERON HEMP (’19), SAM SHEARER (’10), NICK SPARKS (’16), MATTHEW MITCHELL (’12), NICK SHEARER (’17). SEATED: MICHAEL SPARKS (’18)
TOP: THE 2ND XI CELEBRATES A WICKET DURING THEIR SEMI-FINAL AGAINST OLD WESLEY. LACHIE-FRASER-SMITH (’85) BOWLING FOR THE 3RD XI.
SUCCESS FOR OLD SCOTCH CRICKETERS After unexpected grand final losses to Old Melburnians in recent years, the Old Scotch Cricket Club 1st XI was eager to set the record straight and continue its dominance across the 2021/22 season with a grand final win. After successfully defending 105 against MCC (all out for 64) in the semi-final, the 1st XI went into the grand final on 13 March undefeated, and with the pressure of being favourites. Tight bowling from Harrison Goad (’13) and William Bonwick (’16) kept Old Melburnians to 138, a modest total on the superb Main Oval pitch. Cameron Hemp (’19) came out blazing, and with Sam Shearer (’10) and Michael Sparks (’18), the total was calmly passed with five overs to spare. The premiership was a real team effort, with strong season performances from Will Clark (’12), Will Hayes, Nick Shearer (’17), Hamish Francis (’21) and Sam Dawborn (’15). It brought the 1st XI’s performance to seven grand final wins from 11 appearances in the last 15 years. The 2nd XI, led by John Stavris (‘12), headed into the final with strong performances and looking for its first grand final appearance since the MCC Club XI Division 2 was created. The 2nd XI had beaten Old Wesley in January, but a sticky wicket after rain suited the medium-slow Old Wesley bowlers, and they quickly had Old Scotch in trouble with three early wickets. Old Scotch fought back strongly with a modest total, thanks to Mitch Sennitt (’15) and Oliver McLeish (’17). Great bowling from Will Meggitt (’12) and James Halse (’16) brought the game into balance with four overs remaining. Unfortunately, Old Wesley rallied and won with just two overs to spare. Throughout the season Tom Polkinghorne (’18), Cameron Melville (’13), Nick Bennett (’20) and Tom Edney (’15) all made strong contributions. Special mention to Cameron Melville who scored the club’s only century of the season. The 3rd XI reformed this year, and while winning only three games it had a couple of close finishes in other matches, and the
RIGHT: THE OLD SCOTCH CRICKET CLUB 3RD XI
team enjoyed a memorable season. It was a great opportunity for a group of friends to continue playing together once more, often accompanied by their sons, as they had done when taking up cricket again together some nine years ago. The team was led by Paul Lund, Chris McKenna and David Polmear (’80). Most of the opposition were significantly younger, and each week the team had to work closely as a unit to be competitive. There were some terrific individual performances, but fundamentally the season outcomes were based on the team effort, banter and enjoyment between Chris McKenna and the family combinations of David, James (’14) and Scott Polmear (’17), Paul and Oscar Lund (’18), John (’81) and Ben Lloyd (’18), Bill and James Kelsall, and Lachie (’85) and William Fraser-Smith (’18). We wish to sincerely thank our sponsors the Elgin Inn, AANDI Lawyers, Pinnacle Road, McDonald Management and Events and OSCA, all of whom have helped to maintain the club’s strength during challenging times. The club plans to field three teams again in 2022/23, and encourages recent school leavers to enjoy a high standard of cricket in a welcoming and fun environment on some of the best pitches in the country, courtesy of Scotch Curator Mick Smith and his wonderful team of Grounds people. Weekly updates of team performances, fixtures and social memberships are available on www.oldscotchcc.com.au or through our regular e-newsletters. Surround yourself in the excitement. MARK GRIFFITHS – PRESIDENT, OLD SCOTCH CRICKET CLUB
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 85
OSCA PHOTO TAKEN DURING THE CELEBRATION OF THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF VICTORIAN SCHOOL RUGBY UNION AT SCOTCH ON 11 AUGUST 2007
Rugby
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE CENTENARY OF RUGBY AT SCOTCH IN 2032
CELEBRATING THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF VICTORIAN SCHOOL RUGBY UNION
SOME SCOTCH 1ST XV RUGBY TEAMS OF THE 1930S
The Scotch 1st XV rugby team will play the Melbourne Grammar School 1st XV during a weekend of events to celebrate the first Victorian school rugby union match, played by the two schools on 11 August 1932. The historic 90th anniversary match will be played on the Main Oval at Scotch on Saturday 28 May. The match will be the centrepiece of a weekend of celebration which is being organised by the School, the Scrum Club (the Scotch rugby supporters’ group) and the Old Scotch Rugby Club. A full set of anniversary matches for the 2nd XV and the under 13, 14, 15, and 16 teams will also be played on the Main Oval. The weekend will be preceded by a 90th anniversary lunch on Friday 27 May at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, involving the whole Scotch rugby community – including past players, coaches and families – as well as Victorian and national connections and rugby legends. Details of the lunch and the Saturday program will be provided through OSCA, the Scrum Club, the Old Scotch Rugby Club, and their respective social media sites. The Scotch Collegian of August 1932 records that the first match was played in ‘ideal weather’ and ended with a score of 19 to nil in Scotch’s favour. Scotch attributed its early success to excellent coaching from the Melbourne University Rugby Union Football Club which ‘sent
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out players to give us an idea of the game’ and subsequently to the appointment of a permanent coach, Mr Bellcliffe, a former New Zealand player and ‘one of the best coaches in Victoria’. The Victorian Rugby Union (VRU) assisted by ‘supplying referees and literature on the game’. The encouragement of the School’s Principal, Dr W.S.Littlejohn, himself a former provincial referee in New Zealand, was inspiring. Rugby Victoria President and Melbourne Rebels Director, Neil Hay, said the great heritage of Victorian rugby is built on the contribution of schools like Scotch and Melbourne Grammar, and the strength of the contribution of Victoria’s schools gives the VRU enormous confidence about the immediate future of the game. ‘The 90th anniversary celebrations will lay the foundation for the centenary of rugby at Scotch in 2032, the year that the Olympics return to Australia. It will also enthuse boys and families planning to attend the World Cup of Rugby in France in 2023, and hopefully, in Australia in 2027,’ Mr Hay said. The Scotch Rugby season kicked off with a preseason camp in April. To attend the 90th anniversary lunch, or for more information about the games, contact Jason Andrew (0413 046 965) or Rick Boykett (0412 601 538). BEVERLEY KNOWLES – OLD SCOTCH RUGBY CLUB
Wine and Food
BUSY YEAR AHEAD FOR WINE AND FOOD CLUB
FIFTY MEMBERS AND GUESTS ENJOY FIRST 2022 EVENT After an interrupted two years, the Old Scotch Wine and Food Club gathered at Royal South Yarra Tennis Club on Thursday 24 February to taste a selection of wines from the Kirby Family vineyards of Yabby Lake and Heathcote Estate. Rupert Steenberg, General Manager of Joval Family Wines, gave over 50 members and guests a wonderful introduction to Mornington Peninsula and Heathcote wines, with the noise and laughter testament to the good time had by all. This promises to be a busy year for our wine and food lovers, with functions
organised with Henschke Wines, Shaw and Smith and other great wineries. Our functions take the form of sit down tastings or dinners where wines are matched to the food. With the hardworking efforts of all committee members, the club is continuing to grow and gain in popularity. Club membership is open to all members of the Scotch Family. To enquire about activities or membership, please contact the club: oswfc@outlook.com. BRENDAN HERRON (’96) – PRESIDENT, OLD SCOTCH WINE AND FOOD CLUB
MEMBERS OF THE OLD SCOTCH FOOTBALL CLUB'S 1978 VAFA A SECTION PREMIERSHIP TEAM, PICTURED AT THE FOOTBALL CLUB'S CENTENARY DINNER, TOGETHER WITH COACH LAURIE AGHAN (SITTING, THIRD FROM RIGHT), CLUB SECRETARY BRYAN GIBBS (54, SITTING, SECOND FROM RIGHT) AND SUPPORTER BILL MORGAN ('34 SITTING, FAR LEFT).
FOOTBALL CLUB’S FIRST CENTURY WELL CELEBRATED The Old Scotch Football Club’s Centenary Dinner on the evening of Friday 4 March at the MCG was an unqualified success, and ultimately took place despite two earlier attempts in the actual centenary year of 2021 – both thwarted by COVID. The dinner, which included the 2022 season launch, was held in the plush surroundings of the MCC Members’ Dining Room, and attended by 350 players, members, partners, supporters and
A once in a hundred years event at the MCG sponsors, including a large contingent of current and recently-retired players. Guests were piped in by Geoff Courtis (’66). There was regret at the inability to attend the dinner of some long-term club supporters, and luminaries such as two of the authors of the club history, Fighting for the Cardinal Gold and Blue, John Bell (’60) and Geoff McCracken (’65), but co-author Bruce Brown (’60) was there to represent them and enjoy the festivities.
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5. MAJOR CORPORATE PARTNER GUS MCQUEEN ('91) AND FEDERAL TREASURER THE HON JOSH FRYDENBERG. 6. BILL (’34) AND JOHN MORGAN (’69). 7. ALEX SLOAN (’71), TIM SHEARER (’85), HON JOSH FRYDENBERG, TOM BATTY, DR GORDON DONALDSON AM
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1.OSFC PLAYERS LIVING IT UP. 2. NEW LIFE MEMBERS (LEFT TO RIGHT) JOHN MONTGOMERY (’59) REPRESENTING LIFE MEMBER SCOTT MONTGOMERY (’85); BRUCE ARMSTRONG; DAVID MCCLEERY (’86); EDDIE MONTGOMERY (’18) REPRESENTING SCOTT MONTGOMERY (’85); HENRY DICK (’09). 3. MATILDA RAPKE, AMY ARUNDEL, MAXINE WELLS 4. CLUB CAPTAINS BEC COMAND AND ANDREW JELBART (’11).
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Appropriately, the evening was divided into four ‘quarters’, preceded by a ‘pre-game warm-up’, in which guests gathered in the Dining Room bar. They enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and canapes, overlooking the lush green sward of the MCG in its betweenseasons phase, just 12 days before the first game of the 2022 AFL season. Highlights of the evening included: • Announcement of men’s and women’s club Captains for 2022 – Andrew Jelbart (’11) and Bec Comand – and their official welcome to guests. • Presentation of OSFC Life Membership certificates to Bruce Armstrong, Henry Dick (’09), David McCleery (’86) and Scott Montgomery (’85). Scott’s award was re-presented from 2020 after a delay caused by COVID. Scott is recovering from serious illness and was unable to attend the dinner, so the award was accepted on his behalf by his father, John (’59) and son, Eddie (’18). • An address by OSFC President, Tim Shearer (’85), in which he thanked all club sponsors, mentioning in particular the sponsorship of McQueen Group and the federal government (through JobKeeper) in the difficult days of 2020, without which Tim said the club would not have been able to operate; and presentation of certificates of appreciation to Angus McQueen (’91, Founder and Partner of the McQueen Group) and the Federal Treasurer and member for Kooyong, Hon Josh Frydenberg MP. • A response by the Hon Josh Frydenberg, in which he praised the club for its proud history, its long tenure in the VAFA’s Premier section, and its outreach as a supporter and encourager of young people.
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• The inauguration of the John Anderson Medal, to be awarded for outstanding service to the club by a player, announced by Tim Shearer and endorsed by former Club Coach, Laurie Aghan. • Announcement of the OSFC Team of the Club’s First Century – see pages 87 and 88. • A live auction, energetically conducted by Lachie FraserSmith (’85) of Jellis Craig, which raised $20,000 for the club. There was strong support for all items – a Ben Shearer watercolour, an MCG private suite ‘experience’ donated by Donald McDonald and McDonald Management, a financial planning session donated by McQueen Group, a Carlton Football Club signed jumper, and a night out with the Melbourne Football Club 2021 premiership cup. After enjoying a delicious selection of canapes during the ‘pre-game warm-up’, once in the Dining Room guests tucked into an entrée of free range chicken and duck, followed by succulent West Gippsland free range beef tenderloin, accompanied by a well-chosen range of wines from the Rothbury Estate, Lindeman and Seppelt. The raffle drawn, the club song sung, and formalities over, the dinner drew to a close at around 11pm, but for many guests the night was yet young. They kicked on at the ‘after match’ function, held at the Duke of Wellington Hotel in Flinders Street. The great success of the long-awaited and much-anticipated dinner was due to the untiring work over a long period of event coordinator, Sandra Dick, supported by club President, Tim Shearer. MCs Nat Edwards of the AFL and David Temple (’63) were outstanding and kept the dinner formalities running smoothly).
OSFC TEAM OF THE CLUB’S FIRST CENTURY Announced at the club's Centenary Dinner on 4 March PLAYER
GAMES
COMMENTS
John Anderson *
229
Inspirational leader. Ruck-rover, club captain for seven years, six-time best and fairest winner, 11-time state representative, state captain twice, all-Australian representative twice and three-time premiership player. Life Member and VAFA Big V Champion.
Ben Barnett *
6 years
Champion footballer and Test cricketer. First rover, twice best and fairest winner, five-time state representative, state captain and three-time A Section premiership player.
Mike Bates
24
Champion ruckman. Previous state representative, best and fairest winner and A Section premiership player.
Marten Bedford *
59
Very skilful and pacy wingman. Twice state representative and all-Australian representative.
Peter Brown
192
Champion backman. Played 44 games for Fitzroy. Three-time state representative and all-Australian representative. Life Member.
Jack Bull
99
Champion follower. Twice best and fairest winner, state representative and club captain for three years. Premiership player twice with Collegians
Steve Collins
154
Excellent centreline player. Best and fairest winner and three-time state representative.
Andrew Crow
144
Champion ruckman. Twice best and fairest winner, VAFA A Section best and fairest winner and state representative.
Mick Eggleston *
68
Creative forward. Best and fairest winner. Life Member.
Richard Eva
118
Top backman. Four-time best and fairest winner, state under 23 representative and club captain for three years.
Michael Fitchett *
67
Brilliant forward creating drive from the centre. State representative twice and club captain for three years. Later played 30 games for Hawthorn.
Rob Fuller
157
Champion halfback flanker. State representative for 10 years, state captain for seven years and club captain for nine years. Life Member and VAFA Legend of the Big V. Previously played four games for Richmond.
Peter Harkness *
73
Tremendous ruckman, skinny as a bean pole. Three-time best and fairest winner, state representative, VAFA Olympic Games representative, all-Australian representative and club captain.
Adam Houlihan
103
Highly skilled utility player. Member of the famous Houlihan football family who previously played 61 games for Geelong and 33 games for Richmond.
David Hughes
163
Champion goalkicking forward. Five-times leading goalkicker, best and fairest winner, club captain for three years, premiership player and captain, state representative for six years, state captain, three-time all-Australian representative, AAFC team captain and AAFC Medal winner. Life Member and VAFA Legend of the Big V.
Ian Law
71
Champion rover. Best and fairest winner, VAFA A Section best and fairest winner, threetime state representative and all-Australian representative. Later played 106 games for Hawthorn. Son of Gordon Law.
Gordon Law *
267
Champion forward. Best and fairest winner, eight-time A Section premiership player, one-time games played record holder, club captain and twice state representative. Life Member and father of Ian Law.
Jim Lillie *
59
Hard concentrated full back with a good kick-out. State and all-Australian representative and club captain.
Ken Melville
59
Talented centreman. Former Melbourne best and fairest winner and premiership player who played 71 games for Melbourne as an amateur before captaining Old Scotch.
www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 89
OSCA OSFC TEAM OF THE CLUB’S FIRST CENTURY ... continued PLAYER
GAMES
COMMENTS
John Moir
151
Champion ruckman. Twice best and fairest, VAFA A Section best and fairest, four-time state representative and all-Australian representative..
John Morgan
211
Versatile utility player forward or back. VAFA B Section best and fairest winner, twice premiership player, and played four games for Melbourne. Life Member.
Bill Pearson *
8 years
Prolific goalkicker. Club’s all-time leading goalkicker, booting 1035 goals in his eight-season career, three-time best and fairest winner, four-time A Section premiership player and four-time state representative.
Mike Perry*
59
Solid and tough centre halfback. Twice best and fairest winner and state representative. Later played 53 games and a premiership for Richmond.
Rohan Price
109
Versatile backman. Best and fairest winner, five-time state representative and all-Australian representative.
Manson Russel *
235
Talented rover and forward. Best and fairest winner, VAFA A Section best and fairest winner, six-time club captain and 10-time state representative. Life Member and VAFA Legend of the Big V.
Peter Sherwen
237
Talented on-ball utility player. Twice premiership player, 12-time state representative and twice all-Australian representative. Life Member and VAFA Champion of the Big V.
Andrew Smith
299
Talented utility player. Twice best and fairest winner, VAFA A Section best and fairest winner, club senior games record-holder and six-time state representative. Life Member.
Allan Staley *
10 years
Very tough ruckman. Best and fairest winner, four-time A Section premiership player, three-time state representative and three-time state captain.
Simon Tallent
221
Dynamic on-baller. Best and fairest winner, twice premiership player, twice state representative and club captain for five years. Life Member.
Dick Tindale
60
Forceful constructive and attacking backman. Three-time state representative and VAFA Olympic Games representative.
COACH Laurie Aghan
226
Very successful state coach both before and after coaching Old Scotch. Three-time premiership coach at Old Scotch. Life Member.
* = Deceased
The VAFA did not start officially recording games played until 1939
LEFT TO RIGHT: AUCTIONEER LACHIE FRASER-SMITH (’85) WITH TIM SHEARER (‘85). MEMBERS OF THE DICK FAMILY: GEORGE (’05), DAVID, SANDRA, HAMISH (’03), HENRY (’09). (TOP) MCS NAT EDWARDS AND DAVID TEMPLE (’63). (BOTTOM) EDDIE (YEAR 12), AMANDA AND NICK SHEARER (’17)
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OF ANDREW SHEARER (’83) DIRECTOR-GENERAL NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE Recently described by The Australian as the most important person you’ve never heard of, Mr Andrew Shearer, Old Scotch Collegian from the Class of 1983, is Australia’s Director-General of National Intelligence, and is Guest of Honour at this year’s OSCA Annual Dinner. Mr Shearer has served Australia and its national interests domestically and overseas through a long and distinguished career in foreign policy, national security and intelligence. Mr Shearer was Deputy Director-General of the Office of National Intelligence (ONI) – the organisation he now heads – and Senior Adviser on Asia-Pacific Security at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC. He has an international reputation as a strategic and foreign policy analyst. He served as national security adviser to Prime Ministers John Howard and Tony Abbott. He was a senior diplomat at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, and has held a range of positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Before he was appointed to his current role, Mr Shearer was Commonwealth Cabinet Secretary. He was responsible for running the Cabinet system at the height of the COVID crisis and instrumental in the establishment and operation of the National Cabinet, made up of the nation's first ministers – the Prime Minister, premiers and territory leaders. In his current role Mr Shearer is the Prime Minister’s principal intelligence adviser, and is responsible for leading and coordinating the efforts of the 10 agencies that comprise the National Intelligence Community. He commenced his term as Director-General in December 2020. To book go to: www.oscanet.com.au and click on Upcoming Events.
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VALEDICTORY DINNER TRADITIONS SHINE THROUGH
Despite changing COVID restrictions creating uncertainty around the planning of the Class of 2021 Valedictory Dinner, OSCA hosted a successful event at the Caulfield Racecourse on 10 December for 570 boys, their parents and teachers. Highlights included Valedictory traditions such as the Haggis Ceremony, performed by Charlie Lines-Perrier (’21), performances from the Cardinals, Scotch staff member and musician, Michael Waugh and the Scotch College Pipes and Drums, as well as the mother and son dance to close the evening. Given the turbulent final two years of schooling faced by this Year 12 group, the evening provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate each boy’s Scotch journey and contribution to his school.
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570 BOYS, THEIR PARENTS AND TEACHERS ENJOYED A MOST SUCCESSFUL EVENT
OPPOSITE PAGE: CHARLIE LINESPERRIER (’21) CONDUCTS THE HAGGIS CEREMONY AT THE VALEDICTORY DINNER THIS PAGE: JOYOUS SCENES AS BOYS AND PARENTS CELEBRATE THE CLASS OF 21’S SCOTCH JOURNEYS
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CLASS OF 01
2015,'16,'17 02
CLASS OF 2015, 2016 AND 2017
03
REUNION
28 January 2022
04
05
06
1. GROUP SHOT. 2. EDWARD RANDALL (‘15), JAMES MAGINNESS (‘15), NED LINDHOLM (‘16), CHARLIE HOWCROFT (‘15), JAMES FISH (‘15), ED RUSSELL (‘15), ANDREW TSACONAS (‘15), JEREMY PHILLIPS (‘15). 3. FRASER SUTHERLAND (‘17), ANGUS MANSON (‘17), CHARLIE FRANCIS (‘17). 4. EDWARD JIANG (‘17), JOSH LIM (‘17), WILL PASCOE (‘17), JOHN LIM (‘17), BEN CLARKE (‘17). 5. WILLIAM ANDERSON (‘16), MATT BENNETT (‘16), LACHLAN BROWN (‘17), LACHLAN PADBURY (‘16), CIARAN HO (‘16), NED GOUGH (‘16), ALEXANDER FASSO (‘16), JAMES MEIKLE (‘16). 6. DUNCAN FRASER-SMITH (‘16), CHARLIE WESTACOTT (‘16), JONO LOVERIDGE (‘16), ALEX BROOKE (‘16).
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CLASS OF CLASS OF 2021
2020
DRINKS
15 February 2022
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CLASS OF 01
2010,'11,'12 02
CLASS OF 2010, 2011 AND 2012
03
REUNION
25 February 2022
04
05
06
1. GROUP SHOT. 2. MATT MITCHELL, WILL MEGGITT, LEWIS PARISI, TIM MACMILLAN, JACK MCINTOSH, JONO DAGGIAN. 3. WILLIAM ZHENG, MAC HEWITT, BUJ MARRIOTT, DAVID ZHOU. 4. JAMES SANDFORD, LACHIE KENNEDY, HARRISON CASEY, ALEX KING, TOM AUTY. 5. ALISDAIR REEVES, LUKE BUTCHER, GEORGE HINTON, JAMES SNELL, ANDY WHITE, MATT FOSKEY. 6. MINGLING IN ST. ANDREW’S SQUARE
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01
Don MacMillan COCKTAIL PARTY
16 March 2022 The Cardinal Club hosted the annual Don Macmillan Head of the River Cocktail Party, commemorating the decade crews from 1952 to 2012. Triple Olympic gold medallist Drew Ginn OAM (’92) was the guest speaker. 1. RICHARD HYETT (’52), ROWLY PATERSON (’72), MIKE NICHOLSON (’72), MAL MCCOMAS (’72), ROB STRANG (’93), ROB DOUGLAS (’93), GUY YUNGHANNS (’94), DREW GINN OAM (’92). 2. MEMBERS OF THE 2021 FIRST VIII WITH THEIR MOTHERS.
02 01
SYDNEY BRANCH DRINKS
24 March 2022 1. JAMES KEITH (’13), ZAC SULLIVAN (’16), GEOFF PATON (’57), SAMUEL HERMANN (’16). 2. IAN STOTT (’85), TONY MURDOCH (’85), TIM SHEARER (’85). 3. DEREK STYLES (‘92), NICK SMITH (’06).
02
03
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CLASS OF 01
1992 02
CLASS OF 1992
03
30 YEAR REUNION
18 March 2022
04
05
06
1. GROUP SHOT. 2. JOHN BULL, DAN SMITH, RICHARD EBELING, DON DAVENPORT, JAMES TRESISE, DAVID HOSKING, THOMAS KENESSEY. 3. JOHN BATCHELOR, BRUCE BROWN, SIMON O’BRYNE, DAVID ADNAMS. 4. ANDREW MILES, DEREK STYLES, SIMON ARMSTRONG, ASHLEY GORDON. 5. PAUL-THOMAS HICKS, SAUL RYAN, BRETT LONGMUIR, ANTHONY OXLEY. 6. SEAN EVANS, TIM JOYCE, JOHN BATCHELOR, SAM HUNT.
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CLASS OF 01
1980 02
CLASS OF 1980
03
42 YEAR REUNION
25 March 2022
04
05
06
1. GROUP SHOT. 2. DON RELF, MARTIN FRASER, SIMON BLAIR, ANDREW RICHARDS, RICK FLEMING, PHIL KEEP. 3. JOHN DOWNES, ROB WATSON, CRAIG CUMMING. 4. DON MACINNES, DAVID AIKMAN, PAUL MISHURA, ANDREW ROOK. 5. JAMES CUTHBERTSON, ALISTAIR BOWDEN, MARTIN EDGAR, JAMES BREARLEY, RUSSELL FINCH. 6. ANDREW SINCLAIR, GRAHAM BRADBEER.
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CLASS OF 01 02
CLASS OF 1981
1981 03
41 YEAR REUNION 1 April 2022
04
05
06
1. GROUP SHOT. 2. DARRYL RATHJEN, VICTOR LEE, STUART BEAR, ANDREW LLOYD, MARK LEARNER, DAVID GROOM. 3. NIGEL BORTHWICK, STEPHEN CLEMENT, WILLIAM MCDONALD. 4. TIM BONESS, ALAN COLVIN, RICK BOYKETT, TONY SENNITT, GARY WALL. 5. AL MEYER, GREG EVANS MICHAEL LEUNG, ALAN FEARN-WANNAN. 6. RICHARD JOHNS, SAM TAINSH.
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WHAT THEY'RE DOING NOW – compiled by David Ashton ('65)
LEFT TO RIGHT: JOHN COPPOCK (’50); DON MOYES (’50); GORDON BERG (’68); JOHN GODDARD (’68); JAMES TAYLOR (’76)
1950s After leaving school in 1950, JOHN COPPOCK graduated from the Victorian College of Pharmacy in 1954. Following registration John worked as a locum and manager before he purchased his first pharmacy in Richmond in 1962 which he operated until the mid-1970s. He then purchased a pharmacy in Malvern, where he remained until he retired. Over the years John has taken on a variety of official roles, including Director of Pharmaceutical Defence Ltd from 1969-2011, and he was Chairman from 1971-2011. He has also been a Director of both Guild Insurance and Financial Services and Australian Pharmaceutical Publishing Company. John is also a former Treasurer of the Pharmacy Board of Victoria. (See the OSCA section of this issue for details of John's Australia Day 2022 award.) John is still serving as President of the Pharmacists’ Support Services, an organisation helping to safeguard the health and wellbeing of pharmacists nationally. John and his wife Lyn have lived in Kew for 58 years and remain actively involved in the Kew community after raising their three daughters. John’s grandson, ROBBIE BECKWORTH, is a member of the Scotch Class of 2021 and was awarded Triple Colours last year. DON MOYES (’50) hosted a party on Saturday 5 March to celebrate his 90th birthday (7 March), with a cricket theme and memorabilia display, including conclusive evidence of the incredible seven hat-tricks he took during his long cricketing career. At the party were Scotch mates from way back – IAN HARRIS (’49), BRUCE APPLETON
(’53), TED LEVECKE (’48), KEN SCOTT (’48), TREVOR STEER (’55), and NEIL LUCAS (’64).
After a successful career in taxation accounting and merchant banking, Don diversified his interests into agricultural activities. He now lives in a retirement village at Berwick established in and around Lord Casey’s former residence, Edrington Park Mansion. While passing through Forrest, in Victoria’s Otway Ranges, JIM DERHAM (’56) and his wife Judy dropped in to a brewery/ restaurant, where the proprietor gave them the address of local resident BLAIR CURRIE (’57). The visit was prompted by an item about Blair in ‘What they’re doing now’ in last December’s Great Scot. Blair said: ‘It was the first meeting, we reckoned, in over 60 years!’ At Blair’s home, Jim was pleased to note a print of a painting by BOB WADE OAM (’49) of the Memorial Hall, along with a photographic panorama looking across the Main Oval from the old pavilion scoreboard. Jim extended an invitation to Blair to visit the Derhams at their Winchelsea property.
1960s After leaving school, GORDON BERG (’68) completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at the University of Melbourne and secured a job in his chosen field at the Victorian Department of Agriculture in 1973. His career included managing and delivering research and development projects and programs on plant pest and disease management, and, managing service delivery groups including diagnostic services.
Gordon’s final appointments prior to retirement in 2017 were as Principal Officer Entomology in the Biosecurity Branch of Agriculture Victoria, in which he was responsible for planning and responding to outbreaks of endemic and exotic plant pests and diseases, and, as the Victorian Commissioner on the Australian Plague Locust Commission. In retirement he is currently completing a PhD at the University of Melbourne examining outbreaks of the Australian plague locust affecting Victoria. Gordon and his wife Catherine were married in 1978, and live in Camberwell. COVID restrictions allowing, they spend as much time as possible with their son and daughter, and their son-in-law and two grandchildren. Gordon also enjoys interests in, among other things, antique cars and photography. Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, published late in 2021, is the second novel written by JOHN GODDARD (’68). After a career as an English teacher and then Director of Studies and as a Principal (Arndell Anglican College in the outer north-west of Sydney), John felt moved to have a go at writing a novel, having taught students for so long. Conversations, with Clocks was his first novel. Both books are set in a boarding school environment, and John says they may be of interest to those who like to follow the internal workings of a fairly closed community. He told Great Scot: ‘I have enjoyed the process enormously. And I like to think that my love of literature got a bit of an extra push from the teaching of [legendary English teacher] “Gunner” Owen!’ John said ‘Gunner’ could be a bit of an enigma. ‘I remember him taking an essay I had written in my tiny handwriting and
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WHAT THEY'RE DOING NOW – continued
LEFT TO RIGHT: MARK WOOTTON (’78) AND EVE KANTOR; CHRISTOPHER PRESTON (’88); MICHAEL GREGORY (’89); MARC GREENING (’95)
returning it, with dismissive comments, unread as “much too short”. I took it back, copied it out in large handwriting and submitted it unchanged in any other way. It was well received this time!’ More information about John’s novels can be found on his Facebook page, or contact him via email: johngoddard77@ gmail.com.
1970s Dr JAMES TAYLOR (’76), who received an OAM in the Australia Day 2022 honours (see the OSCA section of this edition) told Great Scot that his 12 Scotch years provided a wealth of opportunities to participate beyond the classroom. He cited Scotch teachers and role models who positively influenced him. ‘Rex Fettell in the Junior School taught me a love of sailing and adventure, which are now a major part of my retirement. Neil Cracknell (Maths in Forms 3 and 6) taught me a love of maths, numbers and patterns, which I used a lot as a doctor and Department Director! David Boykett (Sea Scouts) taught me that leadership, tenacity and practical skills will win the day, and that most hazards can be overcome with a length of rope and a good knot. ‘The Scouting movement taught me that a leader keeps an eye out for the stragglers and team morale, and encouraged a commitment to social service and community. Under Ian Harrison (Drama) I won a Drama prize – amazing since I was only ever backstage – but I really enjoyed the preparation, scheduling and behind the scenes organisation that was part of the whole shebang.’
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When MARK WOOTTON (’78) received an Officer of the Order of Australia award (AO) in the Australia Day 2022 honours, it was a family affair, with Mark’s wife, Eve Kantor, also receiving an AO award on Australia Day. Each was honoured for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic support for a range of organisations, and to the environment. (See the OSCA section of this edition.) Mark told Great Scot that he and Eve met through participating in the Scotch/ Ruyton play in 1976. ‘Eve was 13 and I was 15,’ he said. ‘It has been a long and happy relationship ever since, that would not have taken place if we didn’t go to both our schools. Among other outputs we have produced four wonderful children who live very purposeful lives that make us very proud. I can’t say the same for our theatrical careers. Luckily for others that play was our one and only theatrical effort!’
1980s Graduating in Veterinary Science at Melbourne University in 1993, Dr CHRISTOPHER PRESTON (’88) developed an interest in orthopaedic surgery for dogs. He undertook a residency training program at the University of California from 1997-2000, enabling him to become a specialist in small animal surgery (mostly dogs) and to start his own private vet hospital back in Melbourne. After 10 challenging years, Chris took the brave step of opening a large practice near Chadstone shopping centre on Dandenong Road, opposite the Rosstown Hotel. Now well established, this clinic now has a 24/7 emergency practice and modern facilities.
Chris has many fond memories of his Scotch school days, and keeps in contact with a handful of Scotchies. He was married in the Scotch Chapel in 2007, and he has two children, Olive (12) and Wil (10). Wil begins at Scotch in Year 7 next year. The family lives in East Malvern, and they love to spend weekends at their Somers beach house. Chris plays lawn tennis at Kooyong in his spare time. After leaving Scotch, MICHAEL GREGORY (’89) studied Law and Economics at Monash University and completed an honours year in Econometrics. He commenced working life in corporate law with Corrs Chambers Westgarth from 1996 through to 2004. Two of these years were spent in London with the law firm, Linklaters. In late 2004, Michael made a career change into investment banking, joining Merrill Lynch and working in its Melbourne, Sydney and London offices. Michael is currently a Managing Director at 333 Capital in Melbourne, focusing on the sale of private businesses. Michael and his wife, Georgie, have two boys at Scotch: William (in Year 8) and James (Year 6). As well as enjoying work and family life, Michael gets out on the golf course as often as possible. Michael sits on the board of National Golf Holdings Limited and is on the committee of the National Golf Club.
1990s Congratulations to MARC GREENING (’95) of Book Book, near Wagga Wagga, NSW, who has been named the Weekly Times Coles 2021 Farmer of the Year. Marc is a fourth generation beef producer, and
LEFT TO RIGHT: JEREMY GUTIERRE (’95); KEVIN LEE (’99); BEN ANDREWS (’06); ROB GOODWIN (’08); DIXON DUONG (’11)
runs the family business at Book Book. Finalists in the Farmer of the Year awards are selected from nominations from across Australia in the categories of beef, cropping, dairy, horticulture, sheep and innovation. Judging is focused on production, productivity, innovation and sustainability. JEREMY GUTIERRE (’95) studied for an Engineering (Electrical) and Arts (Psychology) double degree at Melbourne University, where, in first year, he met his future wife, Virginia. He moved to AlburyWodonga in 2001 to work as an electrical engineer with Mars Australia. Moving to the UK in 2004, he worked for Airbus and later London Underground. Though London was a great place to live and work, in 2008 Jeremy returned to Australia, and married Virginia in the Scotch Chapel. The UK lured Jeremy and Virginia back again for another two years, where Jeremy again worked for London Underground. In 2010 he and Virginia returned to Australia, where son Leo was born in February 2010. Leo will start at Scotch in Year 7 next year. Daughter Sia was born in 2012. The family now lives at Mont Albert, and Jeremy is a Senior Project Manager with global engineering firm WSP. He is currently working on Melbourne’s level crossing removal program. Jeremy enjoys electronic music, running/ cycling and generally keeping active, gardening, beer tasting and socialising. He still regularly catches up with a number of Scotch friends. KEVIN LEE (’99) completed a Bachelor of Business and Commerce at Monash University and an MBA at the University of Melbourne. Since finishing at Scotch, Kevin has worked in the real estate and
property sector. He is Managing Director at Riverlee, a private property development and investment firm specialising in the development of mixed use precincts and asset management of commercial property. Some of his projects currently under construction include New Epping in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor, where Riverlee is building a new Ramsayoperated private hospital, and 1 Hotel & Homes at Seafarers, along the Yarra River, which will comprise a five-star eco-luxury hotel, and will also be Melbourne’s first international hotel-branded residences. Kevin and his wife May have three children – two boys aged eight and six, and a girl aged four.
2000s After leaving Scotch, MICHAEL HU (’04) completed a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne, before commencing a career in investment banking in Melbourne and then private equity investing in Brisbane. Michael relocated to Asia in 2014 to further his career in finance and seek a new challenge, working in Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong before finally resettling in Singapore, where he is now a Managing Director at a leading global private investment firm. Michael is a frequent traveller to Europe, North America and Asia. His next adventure is targeted for South America. When not in the office, you can find Michael in a boxing gym, on a tennis court, or cycling the roads of Singapore. Actor, writer and theatre producer BEN ANDREWS (’06) has trained both in
Australia, at 16th Street Actors’ Studio in Melbourne, and overseas, at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He has fully developed his performing arts skills in the decade and a half since leaving school. He recently produced Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman at fortyfivedownstairs theatre and gallery in Flinders Lane. Ben has served on the committee of the Old Scotch Music and Drama Club, and has contributed to OSMaD’s productions both on and off the stage. More information about Ben’s theatrical career appears in ‘Where are they now’ on www.oscanet.com.au. Post Scotch, the pipes were calling and ROB GOODWIN (’08) ventured to the land of the Scots during a GAP year. Returning to Australia, he completed Bachelors in Arts (Criminology) and Social Science (Public Health) at the University of Queensland, with a six-month sojourn to the University of Arizona. While in Queensland he resided at Kings College, becoming, he says, ‘the best damn Cultural Convener the place had ever seen, a bar so low the current RBA interest rate watches its ankles’. Moving back to Melbourne, Rob worked in a warehouse for 11 months, began volunteering at a community radio station in Box Hill, and thought ‘hey, this is fun’. Cue a career change, resulting in work at 3AW Radio for four years in Sales and Production before he returned to Queensland, where he presented a breakfast program on 4ZR in the remote cattle runs of Roma and Kingaroy for the next two years. He now lives at Traralgon, where he works at TRFM on afternoon radio and as a copywriter.
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WHAT THEY'RE DOING NOW – continued
MR PAUL MISHURA SCHOOL ARCHIVIST
RONALD ZHANG (’12) AND EDWARD CLIFF (’10) AT YALE V HARVARD; MATT PERROTT (’11)
2010s RONALD ZHANG (’12) and EDWARD CLIFF (‘10) are used to barracking for the
same team in the Cordner-Eggleston Cup, but on one occasion last year they found themselves supporting opposing teams. Ronald is currently studying for a Master of Public Policy at Yale University’s Jackson Institute for Global Affairs, where he is specialising in international development and economics, the area he hopes to work in after graduation. Eddie, on the other hand, is studying for a Master of Public Health in health policy at the Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, where he has evolving interests in drug regulation and pricing and global health anthropology. They are pictured on this page at the annual Yale-Harvard football game, its 2021 iteration hosted at the Yale Bowl. Yale overtook Harvard to lead 31-27 with seven and a half minutes to spare, but with 22 seconds on the clock, Harvard scored a touchdown, winning 34-31. Eddie also ran into Harvard alumnus BEN STRATHMORE (’13) at one of the ‘tailgates’ – the popular American tradition of pre-game festivities held in the backs of trucks (aka utes) in the stadium parking lots. DIXON DUONG (’11) graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws double degree at Monash University in 2017. During his course, he discovered his passion for software engineering and pursued self-study under the guidance of Old Boy JASON PAN ('15). Together they have delivered web and mobile solutions for various organisations, including Monash University and the University of Melbourne.
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Dixon later joined Capgemini, a global leader in consulting, technology services and digital transformation. He has consulted on various technology implementations. A skilled business analyst, Dixon has led and supported multi-year projects within budget and schedule, while ensuring client needs and project scope are managed effectively. He has worked with large organisations to deploy procurement, finance and management reporting solutions. At the same time, Dixon has shaped new service offerings for Capgemini, and supported the company’s bids for federal government digital transformation projects. In his spare time, Dixon enjoys cooking, reading, snowboarding and swimming. MATT PERROTT (’11) has had plenty of variety in his life since leaving school. He has travelled the world playing water polo, been Club Captain of a lifesaving club, completed a couple of university degrees, and has had multiple career changes. After studying Commerce, Matt got a job in corporate advisory, providing him with good exposure to a diverse range of industries. He told Great Scot: ‘After working on some software deals, I launched a tech start-up at uni (which failed miserably). But it did convince me to switch my Master’s from Civil Engineering to Software Engineering.’ After working for a few companies as a software engineer, Matt is now running his own business called BuildPass, an all-in-one software platform for builders. ‘There are plenty of leadership lessons from sport and lifesaving that translate to running a business,’ he said, ‘but an equal number of things I was truly unprepared for!’ For more information: https://buildpass.com.au; or email Matt: matt@buildpass.com.au
TOP: EXTERIOR OF THE THEATRE ROYAL ABOVE MIDDLE: RUPERTSWOOD ABOVE: COUTT'S SAILORS HOME. RIGHT PAGE: THE MCG'S REVERSIBLE STAND
A FASCINATING SCOTCHIE’S STORY COMES TO LIGHT
SCOTCH’S ‘CRICKET ARCHITECT’: THE FLAMBOYANT GEORGE ‘DIAMOND’ BROWNE For many (verified) Scotch boys of the 1860s, the only record of their attendance is one line in the Scotch Register, such as: George Brown [allegedly] aged 14, entered 22 January 1862, Methodist, enrolled by C. Brown of Ramsden Street, East Collingwood. I recently properly identified George Brown and learned his fascinating story. Born at Melbourne on 10 November 1846, the son of Charles and Mary (nee Fletcher) Brown, George (and his three Brown cousins) only attended Scotch in 1862. A year at Scotch was often enough to get a boy a white-collar job. Fascinating and creative, mysterious and flamboyant, he was known as ‘Diamond’ Browne (he used the name Browne in adulthood), given his penchant for diamonds. George was typical of the many Old Boys whose stories are yet to be learned. By 1868 he described himself as an architect and surveyor. Fitzroy’s first Presbyterian Church (now Uniting), in Napier Street, was designed by George in 1871 and opened on 21 April 1872. It is considered a significant example of an intact English Gothic church. George attracted the patronage of William John Turner Clarke and his son, Sir William John Clarke, designing their city houses and commercial buildings. George’s greatest enduring legacy is ‘Rupertswood’, the Sunbury mansion designed in the Free Classical style for the junior Clarke (four of whose sons later attended Scotch). Built between 1874 and 1876, it remains one of Victoria’s largest houses and has national significance and heritage protection. Rupertswood is best known as the birthplace of the Ashes urn, which was handed to English captain Ivo Francis Walter Bligh after a game of cricket played while his team stayed there during Christmas 1882.
In 1872 George designed the new Theatre Royal in Bourke Street, replacing its predecessor, which burnt down. It seated almost 4000 people. Movies hastened its demise, and it was demolished in 1934. He designed Ballarat’s Academy of Music (now Her Majesty’s), which opened in 1875 and is said to be Australia’s best-preserved and oldest continuously operating theatre. George designed the MCG’s first grandstand, the famous Reversible Stand, in 1876. Its seating could be reversed by a gang of men in half a day, using an ingenious system of ropes and pulleys, so spectators could view football games at adjoining Yarra Park. Seating 2000 spectators, it overlooked the first official game of Test cricket against England in March 1877. At that Test (after wining and dining the English team), George presented at least one gold medal, engraved with crossed bats, stumps, and a ball, to English cricketer Henry Rupert James Charlwood. The stand burnt down on 31 August 1884. In 1875 George took on an apprentice, William Pitt, who eclipsed him in Melbourne architectural fame. From 1878 George worked in New South Wales, designing homes in Sydney’s best suburbs, but also donating his services to design Newcastle’s Coutt’s Sailors Home in the Victorian Italianate style. It opened on 17 March 1882 and now has heritage protection. Eventually based at 100 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, his commercial buildings included the Mercantile Building Land and Investment Co’s headquarters (1885) on the southwest corner of Castlereagh and Park Street. References to George mostly dry up after 1885. When his Australian Riding School building in Bank Street, Melbourne was offered for auction in 1907, he was erroneously referred to as ‘the late George Browne’. He died at the Fulham Workhouse, London, of gastric carcinoma on 21 January 1911.
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BEAUTIFUL TROPHY IS UNIQUE IN SCOTCH’S COLLECTION
LEFT: HAROLD COX’S OLD COLLEGIANS’ CUP. TOP, LEFT: DETAIL FROM THE OLD COLLEGIANS’ CUP TOP, MIDDLE: DONOR, MARY COX. TOP, RIGHT: HAROLD COX AS A LIEUTENANT IN THE AIF
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HAROLD COX’S 1893 TROPHY RETURNS TO SCOTCH On 14 October 2021, working from home during the depths of Victoria’s sixth COVID-19 lockdown, I received a message that brightened my day. Mary Cox was offering Harold Cox’s 1893 trophy to Scotch: an offer that was very gladly accepted. Born at Emerald Hill (South Melbourne) on 26 January 1875, Harold was the only one of three brothers to attend Scotch, from 1889 to 1891. His brother, Erle Cox, attended Melbourne Grammar School in 1886, and Erle’s grandson, Geoffrey, married Mary, the trophy’s donor. Before the advent at Scotch in 1917 of Houses and therefore House Athletics, Scotch held an annual Sports Meeting. As was usual, the one held on 17 November 1893 was at the MCG. Then – as now – there were events for Old Scotch Collegians. In 1893 they were 100, 300 and 440-yard races. Harold won the latter two, and, with 10 points, won the Old Collegians’ Cup. The unusual but beautiful trophy is unique in Scotch’s trophy collection, and is typical of the quality trophies awarded in that era. It unfortunately lacks any information about its maker, and it is unclear whether its current colouring and finish is original. Harold served as Company Quartermaster in the 5th Victorian Rifles in the Boer War, and then in the AIF from 1915 to 1916. Mary said that Harold – a childless bachelor – decided to enlist so that a man with children did not have to risk his life. Harold served at Gallipoli, and was a lieutenant when he died of wounds at Fromelles on 20 July 1916. For more information, visit Scotch’s World War I Commemorative Website at https://www.scotch.vic.edu. au/ww1/first/coxH.htm
THE MEGGITT AND HUTCHINGS FAMILIES: A LINK 164 YEARS IN THE MAKING Will Hutchings and twins Alex and James Meggitt (all SC 2016-21) posed (left to right) in this end-of-Year 12 photo on 19 October 2021. They already knew that they had long family histories at Scotch, but they did not know that those histories first intertwined on the same day. Will’s grandfather, Angus Stuart Cunningham (born 13.7.1939, SC 1945-56, died 2.12.2013) and Angus' brothers Ian (SC 1946-58) and Rick (SC 1951-63) are great-grandsons of Andrew Harper (born 13.11.1844, SC 1857-58, died 25.11.1936), who is Will’s great-greatgreat-grandfather. The Meggitts are great-great-great-grandsons of Principal Alexander Morrison (born 3.2.1829, Principal 1857-1903, died 31.5.1903). Like Will, they are related to many other Scotchies including their father, Ed Meggitt (SC 1981-86). Have you noticed that Andrew Harper and Principal Morrison both began at Scotch in 1857? When Morrison began at Scotch, he found a yard full of boys, but no details about who they were, as his predecessor had taken all the records with him. On 3 August 1857, he began calling boys up to ask their names, their ages, their addresses and their fathers' or guardians’ names. The 76th name he entered into the exercise book that became Scotch’s earliest surviving Register was that of Andrew Harper. Morrison became Scotch’s longest-serving Principal, setting Scotch on very solid foundations, and Harper was an English teacher at Presbyterian Ladies’ College from its foundation in 1875, becoming its Principal in 1877, and Headmaster from 1879 to 1888. He became Principal of St Andrew’s College, Sydney University (1902-20). What were the odds that these two men would have great-great-great-grandsons together in the Class of 2022 at Scotch, 164 years after they met as Principal and student?
UNBEKNOWN TO THESE CLASS OF 2021 BOYS, THEIR FAMILIES HAVE AN INTERESTING SCOTCH CONNECTION TOP LEFT: ANDREW HARPER. ABOVE RIGHT: ALEXANDER MORRISON. THIS IMAGE: LEFT TO RIGHT – WILL HUTCHINGS, ALEX AND JAMES MEGGITT (ALL SC 2016-21)
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ARCHIVES
The 25 oldest known living Old Boys
(as at 21 March 2022)
1.
Rev. William Morgan, b. 23 October 1915. Captain 1935. Aged 106
14. William Grano, b. 2 October 1923
2.
Arthur Henry Chesterman Atkins DFC, b. 5 August 1917. Aged 104
15. Maurice Smith, b. 15 November 1923
3. Ronald Taft, b. 3 June 1920. Aged 101
16. Robert Wilbur Wishart, b. 7 May 1924
4.
17. Rodney Rutherford Taylor, b. 7 June 1924
Kenneth George Dumbrell, b. 17 January 1921. Aged 101.
5. Graham James Carrick, b. 5 March 1921. Aged 101.
18. Alan Reid Milne, b. 15 July 1924
6. Edward McLaren Holmes, b. 9 November 1921. Aged 100
19. Dr Trevor Percival Telfer, b. 7 August 1924
7.
20. Edward Graeme Marshall, b. 2 September 1924
Donald Graham McDonald, b. 23 November 1921. Aged 100
8. Geoffrey Martin Dalton, b. 18 December 1921. Aged 100
21. Bruce William May, b. 4 September 1924
9.
22. Dr Clarence John Kendall Pawsey, b. 7 September 1924
Geoffrey Arthur Tingate, b. 30 October 1922
10. Warwick Laslett Exton, b. 20 November 1922
23. Dr Max Adderly Griffith, b. 30 September 1924
11. William Simpson Brake, b. 12 May 1923
24. James Crichton Murray Johnstone, b. 9 November 1924
12. Ross Franklin Smith, b. 24 July 1923
25. Herbert Neil Kelly, b. 10 November 1924
13. Bruce Acland Miles, b. 2 August 1923
The youngest boy is Guagua (Lewis) Ding, born 7 March 2017
OBITUARIES Deaths of Old Boys or former staff members of which Scotch is aware are listed here. Obituaries for the names in italics below appear on the following pages of this edition.
INDEX ALLEN, Bruce Drummond (’56). Born 27 March 1939, SC 1949-56, died 4 February 2022 ARMOUR, John Taylor (’46). Born 17 July 1929, SC 1943-46, died 20 January 2022 ASHBURNER, Leonard Davies (’48). Born 18 July 1929, SC 1935-48, died 20 December 2021 BELL, Colin Morton (’58). Born 3 December 1941, SC 1953-58, died 14 March 2022 at Woollahra, New South Wales BILLS, Clifford Walter (’55). Born 3 May 1938, SC 1943-55, died 4 November 2021 BENNETT, John Colin Monash (’46). Born 22 August 1929, SC 1936-47, died 23 February 2022 BOOTHROYD, Stephen Francis (’79). Born 12 December 1962, SC 1977-79, died 12 February 2022 BOYLE, Professor Alan John Fraser (’47). Born 17 July 1930, SC 194448, died 12 February 2022 at home
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at Swanbourne, Western Australia BROWN, Christopher Hylton (’65). Born 5 August 1947, SC 1959-65, died 19 January 2022 BURSLEM, Kenneth Gordon (’53). Born 23 October 1936, SC 1948-53, died 8 January 2022 at Perth, Western Australia CADOGAN-COWPER, Geoffrey Frank (’59). Born 18 August 1942, SC 1954-58, died 6 October 2021 in Tasmania CARLILE, Robert Bruce (’59). Born 18 December 1941, SC 1957-58, died 13 December 2021 at Noosaville, Queensland CLARKE, David Edward (’64). Born 24 October 1946, SC 1959-63, died 3 February 2022 CLAVERDON-JONES, Trevor Gwyn (’48). Born 16 March 1931, SC 1942-46, died 30 March 2021 CLYNE, Dr David Hyett (’57). Born 2 May 1940, SC 1946-57, died 3 January 2022 at Cincinnati, Ohio,
United States of America COURTNEY, Alasdair Macgregor Wilson (’53). Born 23 March 1936, SC 1951-54, died 26 December 2021 CUTLER, Barry David (’61). Born 10 November 1943, SC 1956-61, died 5 December 2021 DEMPSTER, John Keith (’49). Born 1 January 1932, SC 1938-50, died 14 March 2022 DOCKER, Ian Robertson Wyatt (’46). Born 8 October 1929, SC 1943-47, died 7 December 2021 DOUGLAS, John Robertson (’49). Born 12 August 1930, SC 1944-48, died 21 February 2022 EDWARDS OAM, Frederick Gary (’61). Born 3 August 1943, SC 1957-60, died 13 January 2022 FARROW, Gilbert James (’45). Born 7 September 1927, SC 1941-46, died 17 February 2022 FISHER, William John (’48). Born 25 August 1930, SC 1942-47, died 20 January 2022 at Greenslopes,
Queensland GALVIN, William Richard (’57). Born 15 November 1938, SC 1954-55, died 27 February 2022 GASSON, Robin Garth (’58). Born 5 November 1940, SC 1953-57, died 22 November 2021 GENTLE, Rev. Brian Glynn (’54). Born 5 February 1937, SC 1951-53, died 6 April 2022 in North Carolina, United States of America GRAY, Charles Allan (’44). Born 14 October 1927, SC 1943, died 12 November 2021 GREEN, Dr John Sydney (’47). Born 10 September 1929, SC 1936-47, died 6 December 2021 GREENSLADE, Robert Dennis (’40). Born 5 December 1921, SC 1937, died 20 January 2022 HAUGH, John Stuart Everard (’60). Born 24 June 1942, SC 1958-60, died 12 January 2022 HAWKINS, Stephen Stanbrook (’84). Born 2 May 1967, SC 1979-84,
died 9 December 2021 HERMAN, Michael Sholem (’63). Born 15 August 1945, SC 1958-63, died 16 January 2022 JACK, Lewis Ellis (’47). Born 17 September 1930, SC 1942-46, died 9 June 2021 at the Gold Coast Private Hospital, Southport, Queensland JAMES, Denzil Robert (’48). Born 21 August 1930, SC 1945-48, died 31 May 2021 JOACHIM, Denis Joseph (’55). Born 5 February 1938, SC 1950-55, died 27 January 2022 KAYE, Geoffrey Laurence (’59). Born 29 September 1941, SC 1956-58, died 9 February 2022 KERR OAM, Robert Donald (’46). Born 18 January 1930, SC 1944-46, died 22 December 2021 KERR, Rev Graeme Kelvin Charles (’59). Born 29 May 1942, SC 1956-59, died 9 February 2022 KNEEBONE, Geoffrey Frederick (’46). Born 12 June 1929, SC 1945-46, died 20 January 2022 LANE, Donald John (’65). Born 22 August 1948, SC 1962-66, died 18 March 2022 LATHAM, Christopher Paul (Staff 1978-86). Born 16 April 1935, died
27 January 2022 at Joondalup, Western Australia LECKIE, Andrew Hector (’66). Born 22 March 1949, SC 1958-64, died 9 June 2021 LEWIS, Gerald Alexander (’63). Born 7 March 1946, SC 1960-63, died 26 February 2022 LIE, Leif Lorie (’42). Born 17 November 1926, SC 1932-36, died 1 April 2022 LOCKHART, Alexander John (’44). Born 14 November 1926, SC 1941-43, died 8 July 2021 LORIMER, Robert Alan (’48). Born 14 January 1932, SC 1945-48, died 8 February 2022 MACINTYRE AO FASSA FAHA, Professor Stuart Forbes (’64). Born 21 April 1947, SC 1959-64, died 22 November 2021 MAILER, Melrose Malcolm Holtom (’54). Born 24 April 1936, SC 1943-53, died 8 December 2021 MANN, Jonathan Speirs (’63), Born 22 October 1945, SC 1959-64, died 8 December 2021 MARSHALL, Alban David (’49). Born 16 February 1931, SC 1944-49, died 17 January 2022 McKINSTRAY, Eric (’51). Born 5 April 1934, SC 1946-50, died 16
January 2022 MILFORD, Dr Sidney Nevil (’41). Born 11 February 1925, SC 1938-41, died 11 January 2022 at Indooroopilly, Queensland OLDING, Reginald Anthony (’49). Born 28 June 1931, SC 1938-49, died 30 December 2021 RIDDLE, Malcolm Robertson (’37). Born 18 December 1919, SC 1935-37, died 4 August 2021 RUDDLE, John William (’45). Born 13 December 1926, SC 1940-43, died 8 December 2021 in Western Australia SCOTT, Ian Alexander (’61). Born 4 February 1944, SC 1953-61, died 12 March 2022 SHELDRICK (nee Kennedy), Rosemary Dean (Staff 1959-62 and 1973-74). Born 11 November 1933, died 24 April 2021 SMITH, Michael John (’44). Born 4 April 1926, SC 1940-44, died 21 March 2022 STEVENS, Geoffrey William (’55). Born 6 April 1938, SC 1950-53, died 17 November 2021 STEVENSON, Kenneth Ian (’47). Born 11 December 1930, SC 1945-46, died 2 January 2021 STOKES, Lewis Charles (’50). Born
23 March 1933, SC 1945-50, died 18 December 2021 in Queensland TAFT, Dr Leon Israel (’44). Born 3 November 1927, SC 1941-44, died 10 January 2022 TAYLOR, Ian Alward (’67). Born 24 September 1949, SC 1962-67, died 6 March 2022 TEAGUE, Ian Charles (’52). Born 18 March 1935, SC 1947-52, died 30 March 2022 THODEY, Peter Richard (’38). Born 17 June 1921, SC 1935-36, died 17 March 2022 THOMSON, John McLean (’67). Born 11 February 1949, SC 196366, died 24 January 2022 VOLARD, Samuel Vernon (Staff 1968). Born 5 December 1930, died 28 February 2022 WARTON, Dr Robert Bruce (’60). Born 11 October 1943, SC 1956-61, died 27 February 2022 WESTON, Paul Maurice (’61). Born 28 December 1943, SC 1955-61, died 18 January 2022 WOOD, John Gordon Mackinnon (’64). Born 12 March 1946, SC 1951-65, died 26 October 2021 at Herston, Queensland
The following obituaries have been written by families or friends.
BILLS, Clifford Walter (’55) Cliff’s friend, Bill Hutchinson (‘57), and daughter, Deborah Parkinson (staff), wrote: Cliff was born on 3 May 1938 at the Epworth Hospital, Richmond, the son of Walter George and Ellen Elizabeth (nee Ward) Bills. He attended Scotch from 1943 to 1955 as a member of Monash House. Among others at Scotch were his brother David Brian Bills (born 11.3.1931, SC 193848, died 16.6.2012), cousin Freddy Bills (SC 1939-49) and brothers-in-law Ian (SC
1955-61) and Phillip Watkins (SC 1958-61), and John Lester (SC 1948-52). On 20 December 1961 Cliff married Natalie Jane Watkins at Holy Trinity Doncaster. They had two sons who attended Carey Baptist Grammar School, two daughters who were at PLC, and nine grandchildren. Cliff graduated as a mechanical engineer at the (now) Caulfield campus of Monash University. His long and successful career in heavy engineering began at Vickers Ruwolt in Richmond, followed by CRA, necessitating a move in 1968 to Hamersley Iron at Dampier, Western Australia. Cliff was Senior Mechanical Engineer, Construction, for Hamersley’s first major expansion. He became Project Engineer for CRA’s new Paraburdoo mine.
This led Cliff to join Production Equipment (PROK) and move to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where he worked on designing and installing the world’s (then) longest conveyor belt. From 1975 Cliff was involved in several successful PROK projects around Australia. In 1989 he relocated to Vancouver, Canada, as Area Engineer, North America. Returning to Melbourne as his base, Cliff also worked in Kuala Lumpur in the mid1990s, and was heavily involved in significant Australian materials conveying projects. Passionate about cars, Cliff was a longtime member of the Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club, and became President of its Victorian division. Cliff spent the last 20 or so years at Merricks Beach with Natalie, remaining active in community matters,
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including projects and voluntary roles with St Mark’s Anglican Church, Balnarring, Probus and Merricks Yacht Club. Cliff played piano, and music was an intrinsic part of his life. He was a superb host with a quick wit. Cliff relished quality time and celebrations with friends and family. A man who really did ‘move mountains’ for his family, Cliff died at home at Merricks Beach on 4 November 2021. BOYLE, Professor Alan John Fraser (’47) Alan’s son, Adam, wrote: Alan was born at St Kilda on 17 July 1930. He attended Mosman Public School (1935-38), Canterbury State School (1939-41) and Mont Albert Central School (1942-43) of which he was 1943 Dux. Having won a Junior Entrance Scholarship, Alan attended Scotch from 1944 to 1948. With a classmate, Brian Darnton Bayston (born 28.7.1930, SC 1936-48, died 7.5.2021), Alan spent most vacations hitchhiking around Victoria, including going to Adelaide and Sydney. He stroked the Monash House VIII and also rowed in the 5th VIII. Alan was a keen Dramatic Society member. Many boys repeated Ninth Form (Year 12) in that period, and he was a 1948 Probationer, a member of the 1948 1st XV, and Dux (aeq) with his friend George Reginald Pollard (born 10.3.1930, SC 1941-48, died 22.5.2007). After a very successful Matriculation in which Alan won three Exhibitions, he graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Physics in 1951. In 1952 he began a Masters degree in nuclear physics, and in 1953 transferred to the Australian National University (ANU) with a scholarship to work with the first group of Doctoral students under Professor Titterton. On completing his PhD at the end of 1955, Alan took a position as Assistant Lecturer at the University of Manchester. In the late 1950s he was very fortunate to learn
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of the discovery of what became known as the ‘Mossbauer effect’. He was an early pioneer, and quickly gained a reputation that was to lead to his appointment as Professor of Physics at the University of Western Australia. He arrived in Perth on the SS Orsova in April 1963 with his wife Thelma Joy Moxey and three children. Alan and Thelma had met at the ANU and married in London on Boat Race Day, 30 March 1957. Alan died peacefully at home at Swanbourne, Western Australia, on 12 February 2022. He is survived by his wife, Thelma, children Penelope, Mark, Fiona and Adam, seven grandchildren (including two boys who attended Scotch College, Perth), and four great-grandchildren – all of whom live in Perth. CLARKE, David Edward (’64) Dave’s partner, Marianne, wrote: Dave was born on 24 October 1946 at Melbourne, the son of Thornton Vernon Clarke (born 7.5.1916, SC 1922-33, died 7.7.1992). He attended Scotch from 1959 to 1963. Among others at Scotch were his brother Peter (SC 1952-59), cousin Robert Stewart Miles (born 24.5.1949, SC 1962-66, died 14.12.2008), uncle Peter Stewart Miles (born 25.10.1926, SC 1937-43, died 24.4.2011), son Matthew (SC 1990-91) and great-uncles, including Robert Herbert Walker (born 4.12.1880, SC 1895-97, died 13.1.1954). Beginning as a jackeroo in 1964 on Caroonboon Station (between Deniliquin and Hay, New South Wales), Dave become a station hand, gaining experience in agriculture and animal management. His love of the Australian bush inspired his travel around outback Australia as a rural contract fencer. On 13 February 1971 Dave married Diane Elizabeth Harris at All Saints Anglican Church, Kooyong. He returned to farming, building a home and dairy farm at Thornton, where he and Diane raised
their sons Daniel, Matthew and Jonathon. They separated in 1988 and subsequently divorced. In 1990 Dave met Marianne Therese Ruff, his lifelong partner. Due to a farming accident in his early working years, Dave sustained a serious back injury that ultimately forced him to stop farming ... and being bitten twice by tiger snakes would not have helped, either. Needing to find an alternate source of income, Dave became a successful watercolour artist and mapmaker. His artworks have since been collected throughout Australia and overseas. Dave ultimately produced seven maps; five in the Gippsland map series, followed by the AussieMap-Australia map and the Mornington Peninsula map. He was unassuming about his talents, and shied away from the art world because he could not stand the pretentiousness associated with it. Marianne and Dave ran the Yanakie Gallery and Tearoom in South Gippsland for 10 years before moving to a small farm overlooking Corner Inlet and Wilsons Promontory, where they continued their work as practising artists. In 2011, they retired to Leongatha due to Dave’s failing health. Following a long illness, Dave died at home at Leongatha on 3 February 2022, survived by his partner, brother and sons. JAMES, Denzil Robert (’48) Denzil’s son, Stephen, wrote: Denzil was born at Bentleigh on 21 August 1930 and attended Scotch from 1945 to 1948. He was a friend of classmates Brian Darnton Bayston (born 28.7.1930, SC 1936-48, died 7.5.2021) and John Howard Brook (born 25.1.1931, SC 1946-48, died 12.12.2019). Denzil represented Scotch in athletics, crosscountry, football, cricket and debating. He was keenly involved in music, especially as a member of the Senior School Choir and as a Cadet Pipe Band piper.
Obtaining First Class Honours in Latin and Economics in 1948, Denzil matriculated then studied Law at the University of Melbourne, with a resident scholarship to Ormond College. He was a member of Ormond’s athletics team and choir. Graduating with a Bachelor of Laws in 1953, Denzil completed articles of clerkship with a city law firm before establishing his own firm in Ringwood and practising there for more than 40 years. In the 1960s, he returned to study part time, and was awarded a Master of Laws from Melbourne University in 1968 for a thesis arguing for reform of the law of theft in Victoria. Denzil was among the first suburban and longestserving Victorian Notary Publics, having been appointed in 1972. A longstanding member of the Rotary Club of Ringwood, Denzil was made a Paul Harris Fellow in 1983. He also served on the Ringwood Chamber of Commerce, and made other significant contributions to the local community through pro bono legal work and volunteering. In retirement, Denzil revived his passion for musical performance as a member of the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir, singing alongside artists such as Judith Durham, Aled Jones and Bryn Terfel. In more modest company, he entertained fellow patrons at the MCG with tuneful renditions of the Collingwood club song, before – and on a good day – after a game. Denzil died at the Wantirna Views Care Community, Wantirna, on 31 May 2021. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. His beloved wife, Judith Elizabeth (nee Welch), whom he married at St Columb’s Anglican Church, Hawthorn on 3 September 1955, joined Denzil on 12 September 2021. KERR, Rev. Graeme Kelvin Charles (’59) Graeme’s wife and children wrote: Graeme was born on 29 May 1942 at St George’s
Hospital, Kew, the son of Kelvin Charles Marshall Kerr (born 31.10.1911, SC 1927-28, died 28.7.1970) and Mavis Ethel Rose Morgan. He attended Scotch from 1956 to 1959 on a Minor Senior Entrance Scholarship in Lawson-MacFarland House. Also at Scotch were brothers Robert (SC 1959-62) and Charles David Kerr (born 20.4.1950, SC 1964-67, died 19.8.2019). On 14 August 1965 Graeme married June Lynette Nicolson at the Glen Iris Presbyterian Church. Their daughter, Kymberley, attended PLC, and sons Marcus and Nicolas attended Haileybury College. Pursuing his calling to the clergy, Graeme boarded at Ormond College and graduated from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Arts, followed by a postgraduate Bachelor of Divinity at Otago University in New Zealand. Ordained to the Presbyterian Church in 1971, Graeme fulfilled callings to two suburban Melbourne parishes before becoming Haileybury College’s Senior Chaplain (1976-2000). Graeme provided spiritual guidance to thousands of Haileybury boys, also contributing to all facets of school life: faith, study, sport, drama and music. He referenced Scotch’s Littlejohn Chapel in stature and provision of sanctuary as he championed the building of Haileybury’s David Bradshaw Chapel, named for former Haileybury Principal (1954-73) David Frederick Maxwell Bradshaw (born 24.10.1906, SC 1920-24, staff 1930-53, died 18.9.1995). Beyond serving Haileybury’s boys, Graeme was a trusted and caring ear for Haileybury’s community, and the APS. His contribution influenced many: challenging their thinking, guiding them through troubles or comforting them in their despair. Graeme balanced dedication to Haileybury with periods as the Minister for St Cuthbert’s in Lorne, significant contributions to the Uniting Church in Australia’s Synod, and as an involved father. Following Haileybury, Graeme continued to provide spiritual guidance and the comfort of faith to the parish at St Andrew’s Box Hill, before retirement, including as the 2012 Crawford-Miller visiting fellow at St Cross College, Oxford. He devoted time to his love of travel and cruising with wife
June, and as a generous ‘Pa’ to his three grandchildren. Graeme died on 9 February 2022 at the Epworth Hospital, Richmond, survived by his wife, children, and their families. KERR OAM, Robert Donald (’46) Rob’s son, Michael (’77), wrote: Rob was born at Essendon on 18 January 1930. He attended Aberfeldie State School, Essendon High School (1941-43) and attended Scotch on a scholarship from 1944 to 1946. Relatives at Scotch included sons Stephen (SC 1970-75), Michael (SC 1972-77), and Ian (SC 1975-80), Kerr grandsons Lachlan (SC 2001-06), Simon (SC 2004-09), Andrew (SC 2005-2010) and Hamish (SC 2008-13), and Alastair Crameri (SC 2006-11). His great-uncle was Frank Shew (born 14 June 1851, SC 1860-66, staff 1870-1922, died 15 June 1934). In 1946 Rob played in the 2nd XI and 2nd XVIII, represented Scotch in long jump and was IX Maths Vice Captain. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from Melbourne University (1951). Rob’s life revolved around the North Essendon Methodist Church and sport. Aged 21, he captained the football team in the strong EDFL competition, and took nine wickets in the cricket team’s 1950/51 senior premiership-winning game. In 1955 Rob travelled to Europe, meeting Joan Margaret Argue on the ship, and proposed three days later. They married at Scotch on 21 January 1956. Besides their Scotchies, they had daughters Jenny and Melinda, and seven grandchildren. Joan died on 19 December 2019. Rob was Company Secretary of Liquid Air Australia (1956-68) before joining the international Hay Consulting Group. In 1974 he became Managing Director and later Chairman Asia Pacific Region, retiring in 1987. Rob also sat on the board of the Hay Group in Philadelphia. www.scotch.vic.edu.au Great Scot 111
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Following retirement, he served on the board of VACRO (formerly Prisoner Aid) 1989-2004, and was also a director of several Lend Lease Group companies. He served as Chairman (1990-2000) and Vice Chairman (2000-03) of Overseas Council Australia. For two years he was Chairman of the OC Council International Board (Indianapolis). Rob attended the Mount Waverley Methodist (now Uniting) Church and later attended Syndal Baptist Church. In 2005 Rob received an OAM for service to (Christian) education and supporting leadership training in developing countries. Forever grateful for his Scotch education, Rob was a member of the Foundation and Alexander Morrison Circle. Following a stroke, Rob died on 22 December 2021 at the Epworth Hospital, Richmond. LECKIE, Andrew Hector ('66) Andrew’s son, Ash (’90), wrote: Andrew was born at Margaret Coles Hospital, Prahran, on 22 March 1949. He grew up near Scotch, in Callantina Road and then Hawthorn Glen, and attended Scotch from 1958 to 1964. Andrew had fond memories of Cadets, especially cold and wet camps with little food at Lerderderg Gorge, but he loved it. Also at Scotch were Andrew’s brothers Malcolm Alistair Leckie (born 7.9.1944, SC 1954-62, died 29.7.2017) and Duncan (SC 1962-73), and his son Ash (SC 1985-90). From 1967 to 1968 Andrew studied Fine Arts at Swinburne. He initially worked in marketing roles for P&O and then at Esanda Finance from 1967 to 1970, where he met Marina Alexandra Djurkovich. They married at the Scotch Chapel on 15 October 1971. After working at IBM from 1970 to 1979 as a Senior Computer Operator running large mainframe systems, Andrew worked in landscape gardening, carpentry and interior decorating for a couple of years before working in management roles at
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Budget, Fleet Express and AGC from 1980 to 1985. He was National Credit Manager at Ampol Petroleum from 1985 to 1995, before leaving the corporate life in 2007 for a private distribution company of Ampol/ Caltex. Following early retirement, Andrew turned his interests to investment property, share trading and antiques, where furniture restoration became a hobby and passion. Leaving their home of 40 years in Balwyn, Andrew and Marina moved in 2016 to a beautiful four-acre property at Mount Evelyn, complete with stables, fruit and vegetable plantations and a large workshop, where he restored and fixed anything and everything. His biggest passion was family time, especially with his six adoring grandchildren, who miss him dearly. Diagnosed with cancer in 2020, Andrew died at home at Mount Evelyn on the stormy night of 9 June 2021. He is survived by his loving wife Marina, son Ash and partner Clara, daughter Georgia, and grandchildren Declan, Ciara, Luke, Brooke, James and Ryan. MACINTYRE AO FASSA FAAH, Professor Stuart Forbes (’64) Stuart’s family wrote: Stuart was born at Kew on 21 April 1947, the son of Forbes (born 2.10.1923, SC 1930-39, died 8.8.2004) and Alison May (nee Stevens) Macintyre. Attending Auburn South State School and then Scotch from 1959 to 1964, Stuart participated in debating, drama, and sports including athletics, cricket, and basketball (for which he played several 1964 1st games). He served on Scotch’s Council (1999-2004). Stuart’s brothers, Andrew (SC 1962-67) and James (SC 1967-72) also attended Scotch. Stuart’s love of history was inspired by Scotch history teacher David William Keith Webster (born 26.4.1925, staff 1963-70, died 6.7.2020), to whom he dedicated A Colonial Liberalism. They maintained
contact, and Stuart’s admiration for David’s pedagogy and ability to impart knowledge sparked his interest in history teaching in Australian schools. Winning an Ormond College scholarship, Stuart began Arts/Law at Melbourne University, later abandoning Law to pursue history. He remained interested in interactions between law, labour and arbitration of justice for working people, as reflected by collaborations with legal historians. Stuart graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours, 1968). Active in university politics, Stuart became Labor Club President, later joining the Communist Party of Australia. Moving to Monash University, in 1971 Stuart completed his Master of Arts on British politician John Strachey. Stuart studied British Marxism at St John’s College, Cambridge University, supervised by Labour historian Henry Pelling, obtaining his PhD in 1975. He taught at Western Australia’s Murdoch University and was a Research Fellow at St John’s (1977-78). Stuart’s career was teaching history, mostly at Melbourne University, where he was Ernest Scott Professor of Australian History from 1990. He held visiting research positions at Canterbury University (New Zealand), the Australian National University, and was Harvard’s Professor in Australian Studies (2007-08). In 2002 Stuart became Laureate Professor at Melbourne University, and was Dean of the Faculty of Arts (1999-2006), retiring as Emeritus Laureate Professor in 2015. In retirement he continued teaching and supervising research. One of Australia’s foremost historians and intellectuals, Stuart’s public positions included the councils of the National Library of Australia and the State Library of Victoria. In 1994 he became Chair of the Prime Minister's Civics Expert Group, and later Chair of the History Studies panel for the national education curriculum: both helped reform national education. Stuart chaired the Australian Research Council’s Humanities and Creative Arts panel (2002-04). Staunchly on the political left, Stuart was widely respected by many with different views for his civility, integrity and vast scholarship. He received the Centenary
Medal (2001) and the Order of Australia (2012). Stuart’s huge appetite for work produced many prize-winners from his 19 books and 26 co-authored books. His last, the concluding volume of his history of the Australian Communist Party, was completed during debilitating cancer therapy. A prolific author of articles and journal papers, Stuart was editor, and on the editorial boards, of numerous international and national journals including Overland, Labour History, Australian Historical Studies and The New Federalist. On 1 August 1976 Stuart married Martha Adele Bruton at Fremantle, Western Australia, and had daughters Mary and Jessica. Stuart was a lifelong passionate follower of the Hawthorn Football Club. He completed many marathons. Stuart died at home at Brunswick on 22 November 2021. A thoughtful, generous, and immensely talented man whose learning shone brightly, Stuart left Australia an extraordinarily rich intellectual legacy. MAILER, Malcolm Melrose Holtom (’53) Malcolm’s son, Scott, wrote: Malcolm was born at Coburg on 24 April 1936, the son of Dr Melrose Holtom and Elizabeth Margaret Millicent (nee Turnbull) Mailer. Malcolm attended Scotch from 1943 to 1953 as a member of Morrison House. He thoroughly enjoyed Scotch, making lifelong friends including Roger Hollingworth (SC 1949-54), John Gibbs Perry Ham (born 19.6.1936, SC 1941-54, died 6.12.2009) and Bruce Appleton (SC 1948-53). Malcolm played in the 1948 Junior School cricket and football teams and the 1953 2nd XI. He also rowed and did athletics. Among many relations at Scotch, including Aitchisons and Hearns, were his grandfather, Dr Melrose Mailer (born 28.4.1861, SC 1873-77, died 21.4.1926),
great-uncle David Mailer (born 18.8.1874, SC 1886-94, died 21.12.1937) and grandson Lachlan Mailer (Year 12). Malcolm obtained a cadetship with the International Bowater Paper Company. A vacancy soon arose at Longerenong Agricultural College in Horsham. He had found his life’s passion – agriculture. He immersed himself in ‘Longy’ and also received gold colours in cricket and football. Malcolm worked on a Western District station property near Lismore as a jackaroo and then as a sales agent for G.P. Embelton & Co. For 18 months from 1958, Malcolm travelled through the United Kingdom and Europe. Periods of work included dairying in Cheshire, picking tomatoes in Spain, and being a porter at Scotland’s Rusacks Hotel, near St Andrew’s Old Course, enhancing his enjoyment of golf. Malcolm moved to the Western District and worked for AML in Ararat. He met a teacher, Lorraine Louise Walsh, and they married at Scotch on 4 January 1964. Their daughter, Victoria, was born in 1966, and Scott followed in 1969. Malcolm had a long and enjoyable career at the Commonwealth Development Bank in Collins Street, with extensive travel throughout rural Victoria. Malcolm and Lorraine owned several rural properties, indulging their passion for farming and gardening. Their favourite was in Yering in the Yarra Valley, where they raised their family and built wonderful memories. After a full and rewarding life Malcolm died peacefully on 8 December 2021 at BlueCross Aged Care, Box Hill. He is survived by his wife, children, and five grandchildren. MANN, Jonathan Speirs (’63) Jon’s son, Adrian (’90), wrote: Jon was born at Kerang on 22 October 1945, the third son of Bruce
Reginald (born 16.8.1906, SC 1922-24, died 28.2.1996) and Margaret Ida (nee Wiseman) Mann. He boarded at Scotch from 1959 to 1964 in McMeckan (1959-60) and School Houses (1961-64). A 1964 School House Prefect, he also played in the 1964 1st Hockey team. Whether through regular calls to his brothers Graeme (SC 1955-60), Robert (SC 1958-62) or Alan (SC 1962-68) and sister Meriel, or constant help for his sons Adrian (SC 1987-90), Mathew (SC 1989-92) and Warrick (SC 1991-97) in their next project, family was never far from Jon’s actions. After Scotch, Jon worked on the family farm at Quambatook, where he was an active supporter of the community. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes as Secretary and Treasurer of the Australian Tractor Pullers’ Association and the local golf club, as a member of the local school council, and as an Elder of the Uniting Church. He received Life Membership of the Apex Club. In mid-1992 Jon had a successful liver transplant. With recipients’ average life spans measured in single digits, he was unsure of his prospects, but the Austin Hospital’s Liver Transplant Unit gave him an extra 30 years. The philosopher Wittgenstein says, ‘Eternal life is given to those who live in the present’ and Jon once again found his passion to engage with the world around him. Over the next few years, Jon resumed supporting his local community by helping others at the Burwood Bowls Club and bowling regularly for the Old Scotch Bowls Club. He travelled often and enjoyed learning about the history of new countries and destinations. The most common attribute his family heard from others about Jon was that he was ‘a true gentleman’. In The Intern Robert Di Nero said, ‘A gentlemen always carries a hanky, not because he might need it but because the person next to him might’. This epitomised Jon: a man who always had a hanky in his pocket. A man who put others before himself. Jon died on 8 December 2021 at the Austin Hospital, Heidelberg.
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OBITUARIES
RIDDLE, Malcolm Robertson (’37) Malcolm’s son, Scott (’80), wrote: Malcolm was born at Ballarat on 18 December 1919, the son of the Rev. Thomas John and Ellen Robertson (nee MacDougall) Riddle. He attended Geelong College (193134) when his father was called to the small Batesford parish. Malcolm rode to Geelong College in a two-wheeled jinker pulled by ponies. He later boarded there before the family moved to Ringwood, from which he attended Scotch from 1935 to 1937. In 1947, Malcolm established Riddells The Staff People, Australia’s first private employment agency. His first client, Radio 3KZ, rang on a Monday morning, asking him to send ‘one of his girls’ to sort out a crisis. Malcolm advertised on Tuesday, sent his first ‘temp’ on Wednesday, paying her five pounds per week, and charged 3KZ six pounds, ten shillings. A thriving business, and an industry revolving around placing temporary and permanent staff, was born. On 14 November 1953 Malcolm was married by his father to Margaret Jean McPhail at Scotch, which their son Scott attended from 1975 to 1976. Margaret helped Malcolm build the Riddells Staff business into a multi-branch secretarial training and employment service. Selling it in the mid-1980s to the Centacom Group (now Adecco), Malcolm’s focus turned to the theatre and the arts, and to overseas travel with Margaret and his family. Malcolm was an active member of the Old Scotch Tennis Club. A great actor, he was a driving force and Secretary (1950-51) in the Old Scotch Collegians’ Dramatic Society (OSCDS), producing and appearing in many plays, and producing its newsletter. Lifelong friends included Keith Weymouth (SC 1940-44), Bruce Leslie Adams (born 17.3.1927, SC 1939-43, died 24.11.2007), Kingsley Peter Maclean (born 23.4.1929, SC 1941-47, died 28.7.2015) and Ian Fisher Borrie (born 13.7.1921, SC 1928-39, died
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12.12.2006). Malcolm served as OSCDS President in the 1950s. Margaret died on 11 January 2018. Malcolm was the fifth known oldest living Old Scotch Collegian, and the oldest known living Old Geelong Collegian before his death at Rathdowne Place, Carlton, on 4 August 2021. Malcolm’s children, Lisa, Kirsty, Scott and Matthew and eight grandchildren all dearly miss his wit, wisdom and zest for life. TAFT, Dr Leon Israel (’44) Leon’s son, Peter (’82), wrote: Leon was born at Carlton on 3 November 1927, the son of Yasha and Sima (nee Morohovsky) Taft, Jewish refugees from Ukraine. He attended Caulfield North Central School and then Scotch from 1941 to 1944. Relatives at Scotch include his son Peter (SC 1971-82), cousins Boyard Israel Taft (born 13.2.1913, SC 1923-29, died 15.1.2008), Alexander Nissan Taft (born 24.8.1917, SC 1929-34, died 26.12.1957) and Ron Taft (SC 1929-36), and first cousins once removed Rod Taft (SC 1950-57), Michael Taft (SC 1959-63), Stephen Davis (SC 1963-66), David Taft (SC 1966-67), and Marcus Taft (SC 1966-69). Leon competed in swimming and rifle shooting, and played violin in the Scotch orchestra. He never forgot the day when the Scotch rifle team defeated Flinders Naval College. Receiving a Government Senior Scholarship to Melbourne University and a Minor Resident Scholarship to Ormond College, Leon studied Medicine and Science, specialising in pathology and paediatric haematology. His medical career encompassed research at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, and director roles at the Royal Children’s Hospital and Mercy Maternity Hospital. He taught and wrote research papers at Melbourne University. In 1958 Leon was
awarded a Fulbright scholarship to teach at Northwestern University in Chicago. Leon was actively involved in the Jewish community. His major achievement was his role with the King David School, the first progressive Jewish school in Australia, which opened in Melbourne in 1978. Leon was a founder of the school and the inaugural President of its council. He also held leadership positions with the Victorian Union for Progressive Judaism and the Raoul Wallenberg unit of B’nai Brith. On 16 February 1954 Leon married Susie Hilda Charlotte Goldman (sister of Bob Goldman (SC 1940-47). They had three daughters and one son. Leon enjoyed lifelong learning into his 80s, studying the Russian language (in a class with two of his son Peter’s Scotch friends!) as well as history at the University of the Third Age. Leon died at home in Kew on 10 January 2022. He is survived by Susie and his children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. THOMSON, James McLean (’67) Jim’s Scotch mates wrote: Jim was born on 11 February 1949 at Bedford, England, the son of Charles and Irene (nee Chapman) Thomson. His family migrated to Australia in 1950. When Jim was five he made a red plasticine snake with small scales etched along its back. His father, Allen’s Lollies’ product designer, took it to work, where the popular ‘Snakes Alive’ were born. Attending Scotch from 1963 to 1966 as a member of Monash House, Jim stroked the 1965 4th VIII and rowed in the 1966 3rd VIII. He ran, lifted weights, did Cadets, and was 1966 Leaving Mixed Form Captain. Also at Scotch was his brother Gordon (1954-57). Many lifelong friends were made at Scotch. Cars, road trips, fishing, camping, beaches, water sports, card nights, music and concerts were always on their playlist.
Great Scot Obituaries Jim followed his father and brother as a confectioner, studying the craft in Europe and becoming New Products Manager at Red Tulip Chocolates. He later operated his own confectionery business, before answering the call of the outdoors and establishing a garden maintenance business. Jim married Helen Elizabeth Drake at Scotch on 2 May 1975. Their children were Cameron, Heidi and Sally. After parting ways, a new romance and partnership with Dea ensued, and Julia and Sarah were born. Aged 62, Jim reignited his enthusiasm for weightlifting, winning titles in three national masters’ championships and setting records with personal bests. In 2016 Jim made a tree change to a small farm at Mirboo North where he bred sheep, cattle and chooks. He enjoyed growing roses and especially orchids, which he had started cultivating aged 13, winning many ribbons at flower shows. Jim collected native eucalypt seeds to grow habitat corridors across the property for wildlife, which included koalas. Jim died peacefully on 24 January 2022 in the garden of his Mirboo North farm with his loyal Maremma companion, Bella, by his side. A person of great spirit and an absolute enthusiast, Jim had a total commitment to every activity and topic that sparked his interest and curiosity. He is remembered as a charming man who was engaging, kind and generous. WOOD, John Gordon Mackinnon (’64) John’s brother, Don (’69), wrote: John Gordon Mackinnon Wood was born on 12 March 1946 at St Andrew’s Hospital, East Melbourne, the son of Donald Mackinnon Wood (born 8.3.1911, SC 1917-30, died 20.8.1980). He attended Scotch from 1951 to 1965 as a member of Lawson-MacFarland House, briefly boarding in Arthur Robinson House.
Allergies aggravated John’s eczema and asthma: Scotch was supportive, but he found participation difficult. He was a 1965 House Prefect and a member of the Camera and Railways Clubs. John’s many Scotch connections included his brother Don (SC 1957-70), cousins Tim (SC 1960-65) and Peter Clarke (SC 1961-67), and Anthony (SC 1959-71) and David Wood (SC 1964-75), uncle Patrick Montgomery Wood (born 5.5.1912, SC 1918-30, died 17.3.2009), great-grandfather William Wood (born 2.9.1850, SC 1863, died 27.10.1890), and great-great-uncles including Albert Edward Hilton Wood (born 21.7.1846, SC 1859-62, died 16.8.1912). John worked in bookkeeping while studying accounting. He became an administration manager and accountant. His passion was cars, owning over 100 vehicles in his lifetime. He was an MG and 4WD club member. John loved challenges: he bogged his latest 4WD to see if he could get out, and took on 45-degree inclines. Frequent outback trips – captured in beautiful photographs – showed his love of the natural world. On 4 December 1982 John married Mrs Joan Margaret (nee Shillong) Furnell in a Ferntree Gully park. He was a loving stepfather to Adam and Justin Furnell. In 2000 the family moved from Boronia to Bundaberg, Queensland. John worked part-time on the docks, wrote a small book on the Burnett River (after exploring it), and grew indigenous plants for public areas. He founded the Crumbs, Coffee and Cars group which grew from five to 200 attendees. John cycled to improve his health, raising money and awareness for causes including autism and mental health. He aimed to ride 1000km in a month for charity. John was healthy, happy, and very satisfied serving his community. As a result of a head injury at home, he died at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Herston, Queensland, on 26 October 2021. He leaves his sisters, Helen and Diana, brother and stepsons.
THE SCHOOL’S POLICIES FOR GREAT SCOT OBITUARIES ARE: • The names, Scotch attendance years (where applicable) and dates of birth and death of current and past students, staff, and School Council members will be listed in the Great Scot obituaries column. • Family members or friends are invited to submit obituaries for editing by the Archivist and the Great Scot editorial team. All edited obituaries will be sent to originators for approval, to help ensure that obituaries are an accurate, relevant and interesting record of Scotch Family members’ lives. • Only spouses for whom full marriage details (full maiden name and exact date and place of marriage) are supplied will be included. • Reference will be made to multigenerational Scotch connections (e.g., son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather). • Special tributes recognising Scotch Family members who have made an outstanding contribution to Scotch College, the Old Scotch Collegians’ Association, or to the wider community will be initiated by the Great Scot editorial team. In these tributes, the School will seek to include material, including reflections, quotes and photographs, from family or friends, and from other sources. • Scotch College takes no responsibility for the accuracy of information supplied by family members or friends, other than information which can be confirmed by Scotch College records. • Obituaries are limited to 350 words, with the exception of those for very noteworthy people as determined at the discretion of the Great Scot editorial committee. • Photographs of Old Boys should ideally be from their time at Scotch, and should be sent as TIF files with a resolution of 300 dpi for photographs 6 inches x 4 inches, or 600 dpi for a smaller photograph. Alternatively, original photos can be donated, delivered or mailed to the Archivist for scanning (and return, if not donated to the School). Tributes and photographs should be emailed to the School Archivist, Mr Paul Mishura: paul.mishura@scotch.vic.edu.au, or mailed to Great Scot Obituaries, Scotch College, 1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn 3122.
APPLY EARLY FOR PLACES AT SCOTCH DEMAND FOR PLACES AT SCOTCH IS VERY HIGH AND MEMBERS OF THE SCOTCH FAMILY ARE ADVISED TO SUBMIT THEIR APPLICATIONS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THEIR SON'S BIRTH.
The application fee is $100. Application forms can be downloaded from the Scotch College website, along with further information relating to the School’s admissions process, at: https://www. scotch.vic.edu.au/ admissions.aspx
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Edstart is a separate organisation and is not owned or affiliated in any way to Scotch College. Scotch College is not privy to any conversations that you may have with and/or information that you may provide to Edstart. Edstart Australia Pty Ltd ABN 48 611 024 205 holds Australian credit licence number 485096.
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118 Great Scot Number 152 – December 2017