OCTOBER
Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (Q) CRICOS 00537M
Lion & Thistle
OCTOBER 2024
THE COLLEGE
Chairman of Council: Mr Martin Webb
Principal: Mr Kyle Thompson
Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School: Mr Richard Dobrenov
Head of Junior School: Ms Tonia Lassman
Head of Middle School & Director of Girls’ Boarding: Ms Amy Woodgate
Business Manager: Mr Andrew Millard
Director of Teaching Learning & Innovation: Mr Blake Fatouros
Director of Co-curricular Activities: Mr Jarrod Turner
Head of People and Culture: Mr Derek Naughten
Director of Advancement: Mrs Pippa Morris
Director of Boys’ Boarding: Mr David Marriott
AUXILIARY GROUPS
Parents & Friends’ Association President: Mrs Melissa Thompson
Parents & Friends’ Association Vice President: Mrs Anita Judd
Parents & Friends’ Association Secretary: Mrs Morgan Schneider
Parents & Friends’ Association Treasurer: Mrs Alana Hurse
Foundation Chairperson: Mr Greg Finlay
October 2024 #117
Community Newsletter of SCOTS PGC College 60 Oxenham Street Warwick QLD 4370
T. 07 4666 9811 E. postbox@scotspgc.com.au www.scotspgc.com.au
News items welcome. All contributed material subject to editing.
Design: Therese Donovan Graphic Design
Print: Greenridge Press
Images: Helen Bohm, Toni Crawford, Andrew Stewart, Rebecca Poole and other contributors
Front Cover: Kick off in the SCOTS PGC First XV against St Marys on Briggs Oval, following the presentation of the heritage Cardinal and Gold Jerseys. Photo taken by Rebecca Poole
From the Principal
Mr Kyle Thompson
What defines an excellent education?
What impact does society have on the educational outcomes we should seek for our young people? What is it our young people want to pursue that gives them a future of satisfaction, success and fulfilment? These are the questions we as a school ask ourselves constantly in order to ensure we remain relevant in an everchanging world and that we are equipping our young people for a successful and happy future.
Traditionally schools speak about creating good people – ‘good humans’ in my own vernacular. And, yes, we strive to do this at SCOTS PGC College. However, I believe to be a school with an even greater depth of offering, we should be looking at what society needs and how our young people are going to positively contribute to society, their communities, and the world in general. This is our premise. This is the depth and significant impact our school can have beyond the production of good people; helping address societal, community and world needs.
This term has seen the launch of SCOTS MyWay, a program that allows our students to focus fully on their individual passions and aspirations, as well as addressing the needs of businesses, industry and higher education. With two distinctive pathways, UniWay and WorkWay, we are able to tailor our students’ Senior School experiences to specifically meet their needs. Similarly, we are able to develop stronger and more meaningful relationships with industry and business, as well as universities, blurring the lines between school and real world experiences and pathways. The structure of this program is truly unique, with SCOTS PGC’s specific curriculum tailored to work ready and university ready learning, and giving all of our students a head start on their transition into further study and the workforce.
Already our students are receiving the benefits of head start programs at university, where they are completing tertiary qualification and credentials prior to leaving school. To see our students achieving distinctions at university whilst still at school is inspiring. Likewise, our students are also completing stages of their apprenticeships, involved in traineeships and experience real world workplaces as they complete schooling, something that is important to families and businesses alike.
Whilst focused on the academic and vocational outcomes, providing these pathways also allows our students to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education and Year 12, providing them with the benefits of a complete SCOTS PGC education, greater maturity when entering the real world, and an absorption of ‘softer’ skills that strengthen society and make them able to contribute at a greater level in their chosen fields. Team sport, pastoral care, an understanding of connection to place and great values that are lived and breathed every day help build capacity in our students that builds their readiness for the world beyond life at SCOTS PGC.
Our students are good people of great character who are committed to bettering their community - their chosen pathway is proof of this. Our graduates often move into medicine and health sciences, education, and agriculture and agribusiness. In short, SCOTS PGC helps keep the world healthy, helps educate the world, and helps feed the world, amongst a myriad of other things. These are wonderful things to have our students do and the societal influence is significant. SCOTS MyWay will allow us to enhance these outcomes for our individual students and for our partners in the community and beyond.
Teaching and Learning
Working in partnership with higher education and local industry to redefine senior schooling
Starting next year, SCOTS PGC College students will engage in a new and innovative pathway program that redefines the delivery of senior schooling and sees the college work in direct partnership with local universities and industry to strengthen future outcomes.
Designed to help students find their passion, fulfill their potential and pursue their pathway of choice, SCOTS MyWay will see those in Years 10 to 12 participate in one of two clearly defined programs, UniWay or WorkWay.
According to SCOTS PGC Principal Kyle Thompson, MyWay enables students to access a more focused educational experience as they look to pursue further tertiary learning or a direct pathway into industry and the workforce.
“MyWay is about being intentional in our educational delivery and preparing students for the path ahead in a way that’s real, relevant and tailored to their needs,” said Mr Thompson.
“Neither pathway is new to us, nor education, but the defined structure is, and that’s what makes our program unique,” he said.
“In the past, many educational systems and structures have been designed to primarily support traditional academic pathways.
“Vocational education is often delivered as a side stream and thanks to structural challenges like timetabling, opting in can often mean opting out of other school experiences and participating fully in school life.
“Conversations over time with students, parents, educators and industry alike continued to demonstrate
the value in re-thinking how we best prepare students to take their place in the world and we’re excited to be in a position where we can truly deliver individualised learning.
“MyWay reflects our belief that all pathways are valuable and valued and regardless of the direction our students take, pursuing excellence remains the goal.
“While UniWay is focused on helping students maximise ATAR scores, access headstart programs and course credits and honing their study skills, WorkWay enables students to engage in real world training, secure nationally recongised qualifications and explore, in depth, industry and workforce opportunities.
“Either way, however, the outcomes we seek to support remain the same - it’s about setting our students up for success by providing them the foundation they’ll need to carve out rewarding careers in the future.”
Beyond enriching the learning experience for students, the program is also geared to benefit the Southern Downs region in more ways than one.
Frasers Livestock Transport Director and SCOTS MyWay Pathway Partner, Warwick Fraser, says equipping students with work-ready skills and providing them access to local opportunities will strengthen the future of regional industry.
“Everyone is looking for employees at the moment that are work ready and come with those building blocks already in place to be skilled and valued employees,” said Mr Fraser.
“We see that those skills are learned in great environments, in team sports and delivered by educators who have practical thinking in mind,” he said.
“The value we see in the MyWay program is that it threads together the educational expertise of SCOTS PGC with real businesses like ours.”
Likewise, University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Executive Director, Helen Nolan, sees real value in connecting with students and preparing them for university prior to entry.
“UniSQ is delighted to partner with SCOTS PGC College with the MyWay program; it’s truly an innovative approach to learning that will deliver strong outcomes for the community, students and families,” says Ms Nolan.
“We know that when universities are able to work collaboratively with schools and engage with students during those senior years, we’re able to better equip them with the skills needed to navigate tertiary studies,” she said.
“The SCOTS MyWay program offers students the opportunity to not only prepare for university life but to gain course credits and QCE points through UniSQ’s Headstart program.
SCAN ME
to find out more about MyWay
“Programs like SCOTS MyWay also have an important role to play in ensuring young people living in regional areas can access quality higher education opportunities without having to leave home; that’s good for students and it’s good for communities, too.”
For SCOTS PGC Principal Kyle Thompson, ultimately the MyWay program is about ensuring the success of every student.
“We’ve always been committed to creating pathways that enable our students to maximise future opportunities and through this program we’re excited to not only further strengthen student outcomes but our relationships with the local community, universities and industry, too.”
1. Principal of SCOTS PGC Kyle Thompson announces the introduction of the ‘SCOTS MyWay’ program to the community at Kings Theatre.
2. L-R Karen Collins, Carissa Miller, Renee Mulcahy and Grace Buchholz
3. From left, Toni Banfield (adaptEd Schooling), Helen Nolan (Executive Director – UniSQ), Isabelle Twidale (College Captain), Richard Dobrenov (Head of Senior School) and Alyce Lotz (Country University Centre) at the SCOTS MyWay launch
4. Christine Peterson, Ellen Parker-Reid and Beau Edmed
Teaching and Learning
The Importance of Pathways at SCOTS PGC College: Supporting Every Student’s Journey
At SCOTS PGC College, each student’s learning journey is unique, with tailored pathways designed to nurture their ambitions, whether they are heading to university or into the workforce. The College’s holistic approach ensures that students are equipped with the tools and support they need to succeed, regardless of the direction they choose. Meet some of our senior students, whose individual journeys reflect the diverse opportunities available at the College.
Meet Sophie Weier & Lesleigh Vincent | A Pathway to University and Nursing at UniSQ
Both Sophie’s and Lesleigh’s journeys to USQ are testament to the College’s strong academic program and its ability to cater to students with high aspirations. With personalised guidance from teachers and career advisors, both girls have been able to navigate the complexities of university applications while honing their skills and knowledge. SCOTS PGC’s emphasis on academic rigour, coupled with co-curricular opportunities, has helped both Sophie and Lesleigh develop the resilience and drive necessary to succeed in their future studies.
“I’ve always known I wanted to work in a field where I could make a difference in people’s lives,” says Sophie. “SCOTS PGC has given me the tools and confidence to pursue my dream, and I’m excited to take the next step at UniSQ.”
“Completing the Headstart program with UniSQ while I was at school has been a good taste of what is to come at university. I’ve already completed the course in ‘Human Anatomy and Physiology’ which means I really do have a head start on my degree” says Lesleigh.
Meet Joel Brennan | Embarking on a pathway to boilermaking
Joel has been completing a school-based apprenticeship with Frasers Livestock Transport, an opportunity that has allowed him to gain practical, on-the-job experience in the transport and logistics industry. At the same time, Joel has been developing technical skills at school through the completion of a Certificate II in Engineering.
Joel’s experience demonstrates the value of vocational education and training pathways, which are essential for students looking to enter the workforce directly after school. The hands-on nature of his apprenticeship, combined with the technical knowledge he has acquired in the classroom, has prepared him for a smooth transition into full-time employment.
“Working with Frasers has been an incredible experience,” Joel shares. “I’ve learned so much on the job, but also through my engineering studies at school. It’s given me the skills and confidence to start my career in a field I’m passionate about.”
2. Joel Brennan is completing a school based apprenticeship in boilermaking at Frasers Livestock Transport
1. Sophie Weier & Lesleigh Vincent - UniSQ Headstart students
Teaching and Learning
Real World learning with a SCOTS PGC flavour
Our Year 9 and 10 Business students thoroughly impressed all who attended their ‘Spring Flavours’ event, showcasing months of entrepreneurial creativity and planning. Spring Flavours is a biennial ‘Eat Street’ style event designed to give Business students the opportunity to bring a business idea to life and take it to market.
From business planning, forecasting sales and developing production plans, right through to crafting marketing strategies, our students brought their diverse business ideas to life in a real-world setting. The SCOTS PGC Assembly Hall precinct was buzzing, with stalls selling everything from cupcakes and beef jerky to hat racks and Christmas trees. Some students also capitalised on the traditional BBQ offerings with drinksthere was something for everyone to enjoy.
“The students have really embraced the concept of Spring Flavours and were excited about working in groups to deliver top quality products” said Louise Ratcliffe, the Business teacher who first introduced the initiative in 2022.
“While most groups have opted to market and sell a food related product, it’s been really impressive to see some other groups utilise their creative skills too. One group repurposed wooden pallets to make Christmas trees, while another sold sunglasses that could be decorated with adhesive jewels”
“The main objective for each group was to turn a profit or break even, which they absolutely did. This year each group also donated a portion of their profits back to the College Foundation too – a gesture that also teaches the importance of giving back” Louise added.
While Spring Flavours provided opportunities for our students to apply their business skills in a practical environment, it also served as a wonderful way to engage the whole College community. Families were treated to exclusive performances by the Arranmore Skipperoos and local band, Witch Doctor, in between admiring the photography competition entries and trying their luck at the games stalls.
All in all, It was an afternoon that delighted all the senses and highlighted the dynamic spirit of our College community while also delivering real world learning opportunities with a SCOTS PGC flavour.
1. Spring Flavours was enjoyed by the whole College
2. Thomas Peters and Sam Stenzel
3. Ella Hutchison and Naomi Ratcliffe
4. Nicholas Fauske, Nate Weir and Beau Beissel
Co-Curricular
The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Stepping into the College Assembly Hall for ‘The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon’ was like being transported to a magical world where traditional fairy tales collide in the most unexpected ways. Under the expert guidance of Ms Katelyn Woodbine (Head of Faculty for English and The Arts), this year’s drama performance lived up to every promise from its advertising—combining comedy, adventure, and a sprinkle of wit that left the SCOTS PGC audience thoroughly entertained.
From the moment the curtain rose, our audience was treated to a hilarious mashup of beloved Grimm Brothers’ tales. Familiar characters like Cinderella and Snow White made appearances, but not in the way one might expect! Each story was playfully twisted, with comedic gags and clever storytelling that had everyone in fits of laughter.
G’day From Scotland
It’s true when they say the world really is a small place …
After countless hours of practice and multiple auditions, current student, Thomas Crawford (Year 9), was chosen to perform as part of the BCC Pipe Band at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. While overseas, he managed to catch up with some past SCOTS PGC College students, who were also performing with other bands as part of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo:
Nicholas Goggins –(Class of 2005)
Dominic Andersen-Strudwick –(Class of 2015)
Nick McGahan –(Class of 2022)
Josh Hullock –(Class of 2023)
Rory Macfarlane –(Class of 2023)
Kweller Manfield –(Class of 2023)
About 700 performers are involved in the Tattoo, hailing from all over the world - from Nepal to Canada, Warwick to Scotland and everywhere in between.
Congratulations to the cast and crew on their spectacular performances over two evenings. This was a show that appealed to all ages and was the perfect family event to celebrate the performing arts at SCOTS PGC College. We can’t wait to see what is on the calendar for 2025!
All current members of the Warwick Thistle Pipe Band, Nick, Josh, Rory and Kweller were chosen to be part of the 700 strong cast, performing in 26 shows over the month for thousands of people each night.
We are proud to offer our Pipes and Drums program to all students from Prep to Year 12 and it’s clear to see that these unique skills gained at school can really take our students to places that they dream of. It is equally rewarding to see that the incredible bonds formed during school have remained strong; we are proud to see our past students are still enjoying their craft and performing together, here and abroad.
Co-Curricular
Equestrian sports for all riders
Equestrian at SCOTS PGC is thriving under the leadership of Grace Buchholz, the College’s Director of Equestrian. Building on the program’s long-standing traditions in campdrafting and English disciplines, Grace has revitalised the offering in 2024 with new initiatives that enhance experiences for riders of all ages and abilities. Perhaps the most popular session on the Equestrian schedule has been the introduction of horsemanship skills training, led by renowned horseman, Scott Keogh. This addition has provided young riders with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of horse behaviour and improve their riding techniques, building a strong foundation of mutual respect and communication between horse and rider.
In addition to the technical disciplines, Grace has also expanded the program’s variety with the inclusion of polocrosse and the first ever Inter-Clan Equestrian Day. Riders from Maciness, Cameron, Leslie and Mackay
went head to head last term in a range of activities and obstacle courses. In addition, regular training days have been incorporated into the schedule, allowing students to hone their skills in a structured and supportive environment.
Grace’s holistic approach to the program extends beyond the saddle, with horse husbandry about to be introduced for younger students in Years 1-6. This initiative teaches children the fundamentals of caring for horses, fostering responsibility and a love for animals from an early age.
1. Campdraft Training day at the Warwick Showgrounds
2. Leslie Clan had a great turnout of riders for the Inter-Clan Equestrian day
3. Gracie Philo and Indigo Murphy try their hands at polocrosse
4. Riders from Mackay loved going head to head with their classmates from opposing Clans
EKKA Accolades: A Showcase of Excellence
The Royal Queensland Show (EKKA) has once again been the perfect platform for our students to shine across a range of competitions, bringing home an impressive array of awards that reflect their hard work, dedication, and skill.
Our Cattle Show Team kicked off the success, claiming 1st place in Inter-School Steer Young Judging (for the second year running), Most Successful School, and Inter-School Steer Herdsperson. Individual excellence also shone in the School Parader competitions, with standout performances by Fletcher Skillington (1st, 11-13 years), Sam Stenzel (2nd, 11-13 years), and Grace Muller (2nd, 14-15 years). In livestock judging, our Grimstead Bull and TattyKeel Angus heifer both secured 1st place in their respective classes.
Our Sheep Show Team also delivered exceptional results, dominating the Corriedale categories with numerous 1st place awards, including Champion Corriedale Ram, Grand Champion Open Ram, and Champion Corriedale School Ewe. To cap off this impressive showing, our students swept the podium in the Young Judges Competition Junior Class, with Benn Hunter, Matilda Judd, and Austin Judd taking 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place respectively, out of 189 competitors. Angus Hamilton was also named Grand Champion Handler for the meat sheep in a field of 100 competitors.
These achievements are a testament to the talent, effort, and passion of our students and staff. We are incredibly proud of our teams for representing the College with excellence at the pinnacle event of the year.
1. Winners of the Team Judging at the EKKA, Nicholas Hughes, Georgia Mulcahy and Benjamin Carey featured on the front page of the Queensland Country Life
2. Connor Ryan with our Grand Champion Ram at the EKKA
3. Georgia Mulcahy and Mackenzie Taylor
4. Isla Muggleton in the ring at the EKKA
5. Success all round for Sheep Team members Amelia Kuhn, Benn Hunter, Maggie Hempel and Maggie Myer
Co-Curricular
National
Success
at Bendigo and Beef 2024
Our Agricultural Teams have excelled on the national stage, achieving remarkable results at two of Australia’s most prestigious livestock events: the Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo and Beef 2024 in Rockhampton earlier this year.
At the Australian Sheep and Wool Show, which was held during July, our Sheep Team made an outstanding debut, competing among the best at the world’s largest Sheep and Wool Show. Our students earned impressive accolades, including Best Presented School, Reserve Champion Ram, and Reserve Champion Interbreed Pair of Rams. In the Young Judges competitions, our students also stood out and were presented with a range of placings in all age groups.
Our Cattle Team showcased their expertise at Beef 2024, Australia’s premier beef industry event. Competing against top schools and breeders, the team’s exceptional livestock handling and judging skills resulted in significant wins. Our young cattle handlers demonstrated their parading skills, earning several top spots in various age categories and placing highly in both individual and team events. Beef Week is a triennial event, and this was the first time the College had attended with students since 2015. While it was great to be able to showcase the College’s offering and commitment to the Agricultural industry, it also provided the opportunity to catch up with several past students and key industry connections. We’re looking forward to attending again in 2027.
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1. Members of the Sheep Team at Bendigo - Amelia Kuhn, Austin Judd, Benn Hunter, Genevieve Hunter, Matilda Judd and Maggie Myer
Mrs Robyn Kuhn and Amelia Kuhn
Angus Hamilton with Benn Hunter
The Sheep Show Team met Mr Stephen Davey, son of past SCOTS Principal, Des Davey during their Bendigo visit
1. Isla Muggleton paraded for the Wagyu breeders at Beef 2024 2. Fletcher Skillington 3. Georgina Buchan 4. Our team judges Ben Carey, Charlee Pennell, Nicholas Hughes and James Buchan at Beef 2024 5. Wendy Whittaker and Jasmine Cox nee Whitten (Class of 2014)
Hugh Cameron (Class of 1968), Ross Bate (Class of 1969) and Kyle Thompson (Principal)
Honouring our Past
The Cardinal and Gold returns to Briggs
Celebrations honoring 105 years of SCOTS continue with the reintroduction of the traditional Cardinal and Gold Rugby Jersey. At the season’s first home game, the First XV were presented with their jerseys at Briggs Oval.
Over 100 guests, including Old Collegians, Past Rugby Captains, and esteemed members of our rugby alumni, joined us to celebrate this momentous occasion and reintroduce the heritage jersey to our College.
This event was a way to honour our past and pay homage to decades of SCOTS PGC history. We were fortunate to have one of our own rugby greats, Geoff Richardson, present alongside Past Rugby Captains to assist in the jersey presentation.
Shortly after, the boys were piped onto Briggs Oval by the College Pipes and Drums, setting the stage for a gallant victory on the field. It was a day filled with pride, tradition, and excitement—one that will be remembered for years to come!
1. L-R Ethan McDonald, Billy Worth, Lochlan Edwards, Ben Cameron, Carl Lack, Jamie Beresford and William Bryant
2. Ethan McDonald receives his jersey from Geoff Richardson and Jarrod Turner. First XV Captain, George Handley and Principal Kyle Thompson in background
3. Standing - Wayne Sugden and Laurel Cornford nee Cochrane (Class of 1966) Seated - Peter Mikkelsen (Class of 1958) and Don Marshall (Class of 1966)
4. Owen Eising receives his jersey with Patrick Byrne (Class of 1979), Greg Hall (Class of 1969), Ian Ferguson (Class of 1967), David McMahon (Class of 2010) and Mitchell Willett (Class of 2009) and son Arthur
5. Martin Webb (Class of 1986), Jim Muir (Class of 1955), John Webb (Class of 1954) and Greg Finlay (Class of 1985)
6. Ashleigh Fulwood nee Whittaker, James West, Harry Fulwood, Ajay Anganjuan (Class of 2013), Mr Peter Pickering, Will Troughton, Daniel Bosnjak and Ben Johnston (Class of 2015)
Honouring our Past
Founders’ Day
On Wednesday, September 4th, we gathered to celebrate the legacy of our College’s founding and the traditions that continue to guide our growth and development.
During our second Founders’ Day, we honoured our founding fathers: Mr. BT deConlay, Mr. RJ Shilliday, and Mr. WR Black, a notable Brisbane philanthropist who supported the vision of two Warwick businessmen. Initially, these gentlemen established PGC in 1918 as a quality educational facility for their daughters, expanding their vision with The Scots College for boys in 1919. 2024 marks 105 years since Scots was formed, we celebrated by returning the traditional colours to the First XV rugby jersey. During the Founders’ Day Assembly, we unveiled a framed original jersey belonging to Mr. Greg Hall, Class of 1969.
This year, we also introduced the Alec Peden Cup for the Gift Race, held on Briggs Oval. Congratulations to our inaugural winners, Thomas Lee and Sophie Benz!
A heartfelt thank you to the College community for your generous support of our inaugural Founders’ Day Challenge. Your contributions will directly support the College Foundation and help advance our strategic vision for the future. Your commitment is invaluable to our growth and success!
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2. Boys running the ‘Alec Peden Gift’ race on Founders’ Day
3. Peyton Sakrewski, Archer Cleary and Charlotte Steel
4. Runners from the girls ‘Alec Peden Gift’ sprint
5. Sarah Mauch wore the PGC uniform from the post WW2 era
6. Greg Hall (Class of 1969) presents his framed First XV jersey to Principal Kyle Thompson on Founders’ Day
7. Ryan Bohm wore Alec Peden’s original rugby training jersey from the late 1940s
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Founders’ Day has become an annual event celebrated at the College
Our College leaders in various uniforms, Ben Carey, Darcy Noller, Isabelle Twidale, Georgina Buchan and Samuel Bourke
Honouring our Past
Celebrating Legacy: A Special Gift to Honour Our Old Collegian Pipe Band
Thanks to the generosity of an Old Collegian who was inspired by the formation of the Old Collegian Pipe Band last September, we received a generous donation. This contribution allowed us to gift a special memento to all past student band members who returned to be part of the Old Collegians’ Pipe Band last year.
A tie was chosen as part of the official Old Collegians’ Pipe Band uniform, symbolising our appreciation for each attendee’s contribution to the Pipe Band Championship and their continued connection to the College.
These ties were also presented to the current Pipe Band members by the Chair of the College Foundation, Mr Greg Finlay, alongside the Pipe Major, Mr Jim Muir, and Drum Sergeant, Mr Bruce Finlay, from 1954. It’s wonderful to see that 70 years later, we continue to celebrate the enduring legacy of our Pipe Band community.
1. Pipe Sergeant Georgina Buchan receives her tie from Greg Finlay, Foundation Chairman
2. Three generations of SCOTS PGC Pipe Band members, Megan Mauch nee Goulter (Class of 2000), Ian Goulter (Class of 1968) and Caitlin Mauch, current student
Honouring a Legacy: The Dedication of The Sally Fraser Learning Centre
In an exciting highlight of our Book Week celebrations on Friday, August 23rd, we had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Mrs Sally Fraser OAM nee Ottosen (Class of 1946) to our assemblies. During this special occasion, we officially renamed the Library Resource Centre as “The Sally Fraser Learning Centre,” a fitting tribute to acknowledge her incredible impact on the SCOTS PGC community over the years.
Mrs Fraser dedicated her life to teaching and establishing school libraries, enriching the educational experiences of students across Queensland communities. Her passion for literacy and learning has left a lasting legacy, and we are proud to celebrate her contributions in this meaningful way.
Sally Fraser OAM and Kyle Thompson (Principal)
Pictured Right:
Golf Day
The College Foundation hosted its second major fundraising event of the year in late August with a Golf Day. The conditions were perfect as teams teed off for a stellar day of golfing under the sun. With impressive drives and friendly banter all around, it was truly a hole-in-one experience!
The day was filled with camaraderie, competition, and fun, making it an enjoyable event for everyone involved. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in the Foundation Golf Day and special thanks for your generosity and support. The funds raised will directly benefit the Betty Crombie Middle School Redevelopment.
We’d also like to extend a special shoutout to our sponsors and volunteers whose contributions made this day possible. Given the overwhelming success of the event, we’re excited to announce that plans are already in motion for another golf day in 2025. We can’t wait to see you all on the green again!
1. The putting competition was hotly contested before the tee off
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Alison Chandler and Melissa Thompson
Ian Ferguson (Class of 1967), Richard Thallon (Class of 1964), Chris Goodwin (Class of 1968) and Douglas Crothers (Class of 1974)
Jarrod Turner, David Thomson, Kyle Thompson and Tracey Burnton
Past Students
TOM EDMISTONE
1933 - 2024
We are saddened to share news of the passing of Tom Edmistone - a past Scots Collegian from the Class of 1951. If you’ve been connected with the College over time, you’ll no doubt have come across our mate, Tom - one of our College’s biggest advocates, the conduit between past and present and a wonderful friend to many.
Tom commenced his schooling at The Scots College in 1946. He was a boarding student from Emu Park and often recalled the 2-day train trip from central Queensland to Warwick. There was always at least one train carriage full of boys wearing ties and hat bands of cardinal and gold, so he always said that he felt comforted knowing he’d boarded the right train.
He was 12 years old when he first arrived at the College and it was on our very own Briggs Oval that he discovered his love and talent for a range of sports.
The PSA extends sincere condolences to families and friends of the following past students
Tom Edmistone (1946-1951)
Richard Magnus OAM (1950-1954)
Clive Troy (1950-1955)
Colin Bell (1964-1966)
Meryl Gibson nee Brandon (1943-1948)
Francis Power (1953-1956)
Norma Walker (1944)
Harry Douglas (1942-1944)
Helen Stumm nee Douglas (1942)
Pam Caithness nee Grimes (1951-1957)
Carol Blanchard nee Erlandson (1943-1946)
Elsa Doyle nee Ottosen (1939-1940)
Donald Douglas (1956-1961)
Coralie Kenny nee Dobbie (1943-1946)
Barbara Lau nee Begg (1966-1970)
Jeffery Girle (1956-1959)
Patricia Beer nee Lowe (1942-1943)
Janice Challacombe nee Siemon (1951-1952)
William ‘Rob’ Harris (1945-1948)
He was an athlete like no other. To this day, Tom holds the record for the most colours awarded for sport than any other student in our history. He also captained all the First sporting teams in 1951 - an honour that is proudly embroidered on his College blazer pocket.
You could say that Tom was the unofficial historian for SCOTS PGC College. There weren’t too many students that he hadn’t come across in his time. Since leaving the College in 1951, Tom put countless hours into recording memories, organising events, keeping registers and quite simply, being the ‘glue’ to help SCOTS PGC College school friends stay connected to each other and their old school.
At Beef Week earlier this year, Tom rolled up to help man our trade stand and proudly fly the flag for his old school. He turned up in his cardinal and gold blazer which he thought would ‘make a nice talking point’ and chatted to numerous families and past students who dropped in to say hello. This was the last time we were with Tom and it will be added to the long collection of great memories we have of him.
We are eternally grateful for the passion and pride Tom had for our College - he will always be remembered.
REST IN PEACE, TOM
3. Helen Bohm nee Hughes (Class of 1998) at Beef 2024 with Tom
4. Alec Peden (Class of 1948) with Tom Edmistone (Class of 1951) at Warwick in the early 90s
Richard Magnus OAM
1937-2024
Richard (Class of 1954) spoke fondly of his classmates during his short illness and cherished his time at Scots. He was awarded an OAM in 2014 for services to the Hospitality Industry and the Jewish Community. He was a Qld representative rower in 1955 and a long time serving Freemason. Richard had multiple awards during his lifetime in the above endeavours.
Cherished husband of Naomi for 65 years.
A devoted father to Nathan (Class of 1976), Adam (Class of 1978), Daniel (Class of 1979), Anna and Joshua.
1. Naomi and Richard Magnus
2. Kingswood Anniversary Richard Magnus and school friends John Webb and Bruce Finlay (Class of 1954)
1. Tom Edmistone 1946 - 1951
2. Tom enjoyed seeing current students at Beef Week this year. From left, Mackenzie Taylor, James Buchan, Tom Edmistone, Charlee Pennell and Gracie Philo
Past Students
SCOTS PGC Births
Congratulations to the following SCOTS PGC couples who’ve welcomed addtions.
Annabelle Charlotte Want
Grace Want
nee Peterson (Class of 2011) and husband
Simon welcomed Annabelle Charlotte, sister to Alice and Louis
SCOTS PGC Marriages
Bart Bowen (Class of 2009) married Kelsie Schrag
Tom McBride (Class of 2009) Best Man, Nathan Watt (Class of 2008) Groomsmen and Stuart Finlay (Class of 2009) MC
Keanu Bevan Reginald Lippi
Tiff Cullen (Class of 2014) and Jayden Lippi, who attended the College in his Junior School years, welcomed Keanu Bevan Reginald Lippi
Bridal
Chloe Grant (Class of 2007) married Jesse Harris
party included Rach Haugersveen nee Grant (Class of 2004)
William and Maree Troughton were married in February 2024. William is from the Class of 2015
Groomsmen - Daniel Bosnjak, William Troughton, Ben Johnston and Harrison West are all 2015 graduates.
James Smith (Class of 2012) married Maddie Kamperman
Groomsmen - Caillum Coleman (Class of 2012) Kerrod Henning (Class of 2011) and Riley EastcottLayton (Class of 2011)
Ben and Bre Johnston were married in March 2024. Ben is from the Class of 2015
Groomsmen - Johnathon Bender, Khan Ladbrook, William Troughton, Ben Johnston, Luke Faulkner and Harrison West. All except Luke are from the Class of 2015
The College will provide more event details closer to the event - please look out for updates in our newsletter, email and social channels. Some dates may be subject to change