Huddle Autumn 2023

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School

Huddle

AUTUMN EDITION I 2023

Contributors

Wendy Biggs

Nik Bojic

John Cantwell

Jenny Crome

Sue Figliano

Maddy Hole

Tracey Jeanes-Fraser

Tim Kemp

Anne Kruger

Samantha Lee

Sue McDonald

Andy McGregor-Lowndes

Julia McKenna

Gillian Moses

Holly O’Sullivan Williams

Toni Riordan

Jennie Robinson

Reuben Saayman

Carly Stokes

Sophie Taylor

Shannon Tobin

Cover Photo: Year 9 CampManon Cuthbert, Zara Hughes, Giselle Singer, Madeline Preston and Unity Maxwell.

Zara Hagan (Year 10) represented Queensland at the 2023 Australian Junior Track and Field Championships in April. Zara won the U18 100m Final, setting a personal best time of 11.60 seconds and making her the fastest 16 year old girl in Australia.

From the Principal

MS TONI RIORDAN PRINCIPAL

You may have spotted our recent “Where in the World are our Alumni”

social media campaign to reconnect past students with St Aidan’s. We have been overwhelmed by the response and thrilled to learn exactly where and what everyone is up to!

‘Old Girls’ have reached out to us from all around the world. Our Alumni reside everywhere from Canada to Laos, from the Philippines to Italy, from the UK to the USA, and from Japan to Switzerland. We have past students who are archaeologists, investment bankers, interior designers, educators, who work in foreign affairs, who are musicians, are in physical performance management, work with odour detection dogs and do cattle serology testing! We look forward to sharing their stories in greater detail. Another way we capture the stories of our Alumni is by connecting with past students at annual St Aidan’s Reunions.

We have just held our first interstate reunions since 2019, and I enjoyed travelling to Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne for these events. I am looking forward to our Reunions Week in Brisbane in May.

I often talk about the intergenerational values and perspectives common to a table, or restaurant or room full of past St Aidan’s students. It is remarkable how views of life connect so seamlessly. The lines of our School Hymn ring clear: Centuries have wrought their changes, But unchanged that Faith we hold.

As witness to this connection each year, I cannot help but think about the likely benefits of being in an all-girls’ school has brought our past students. There is plenty of research, which affirms singlegender schooling, such:

- that girls in classrooms with females who strive are more likely to pursue ambitious educational goals even when of average ability themselves.

- that studies show teachers are shown to be more attentive to boys than girls in the classroom and to call on boys more often than girls.

- that educators’ bias towards boys is more apparent in science and maths classes.

- that when children learn with peers in single-gender schools, they are more likely to attend to their studies, speak more openly in the classroom, and feel more encouraged to pursue their interests and achieve their fullest potential.

Yet, as each Reunion Week approaches at St Aidan’s, I often ponder if there possibly might be another, more significant benefit of same-sex schools for girls, which is not necessarily identified in academic literature. One, that experience at St Aidan’s Reunions points to, as a long term and enduring value.

Without doubt, our past students grow to be kind and compassionate adults who serve their communities or wider society professionally and through their families. When girls go to a singlesex school, they emotionally invest in relationships with each other. In contrast, when they attend a mixed-sex school, they tend to put energy into cross-gender relationships and dating. The majority of boy-girl friendships are often friendly but fleeting encounters with each other. The girl friendships that achieved an intensity in an all-girls school, on the other hand, seem to only grow stronger over the years.

Sharing in the strong bonds between St Aidan’s students, developed over decades helps me see why our School, designed by women of the Society of the Sacred Advent, and devoted exclusively to girls and young women, is so special. The beauty of St Aidan’s and other small girls’ schools is that the loyalties and ties are deep and long-lasting, in fact, lifelong. And in today’s ever-changing, fast-paced, and high-pressured world, such friendships are essential. It’s not about the absence of boys, it’s about the full focus and attention on girls.

I hope you enjoy this edition of the Huddle, and in catching up on news of friends, past and current staff, and students at St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School.

Character Education:

We are not a cookie-cutter school.

MS HOLLY O’SULLIVAN WILLIAMS DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

According to a discussion paper titled The Fruit of the Spirit A Church of England Discussion Paper on Character Education, “there is no such thing as a neutral education”. In explaining this through the context of a school, the paper postulates that as soon as we begin to teach something to someone else, we are inevitably making value judgements about “what we are teaching, how we are teaching it and why we are teaching it”.

The paper further illustrates the choices educators make in terms of teaching and learning should always convey an understanding of the human condition, of what is “important in life, of the relationships we want to foster, and of what is worth learning, knowing or questioning”. Essentially, character education demands teaching and learning to be contextual and individualised for our diverse learners, with a deep consideration of the human context.

When considering character education and what it looks like in our school context, simply listing values is not sufficient. Instead, there needs to be a strong underpinning of purpose. This sense of purpose is, therefore, culturally specific to our St Aidan’s community and our beliefs and practices. Our school values underpin all that we do as educators as we strive to create experiences for our students that foster creativity, connectedness, authenticity, care and confidence. Yet, why do we embed these values in the first place?

Beyond St Aidan’s, the Anglican Church sees the ultimate point of education as the promotion of “life in all its fullness.” Furthermore, that education is more than just producing results as it is about developing people who can flourish in all areas of their lives. This is supported by the Anglican Church of Southern Queensland’s focus this year on flourishing faith communities. Add into the mix the school’s history in terms of the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent and their vision of creating a school that empowers students to be women who value reason, imagination, truth, compassion and responsibility, we are essentially describing a character education. There is no mention of a student attending St Aidan’s with the purpose of graduating with a specific career or study path in mind. Nor is it written anywhere that our students must be a specific type of learner to achieve success at school whether that it is cultural, sporting and/or academic. What is documented, discussed, promoted, and celebrated though is the nurturing of each child’s aspirations; whatever they may be.

We are not a cookie-cutter school. This is evident in the different subjects students decide to study as they move through school and, when they graduate, the different paths they take in terms of careers, further study, and gap year opportunities. When discussing the purpose of education and in particular, character education, the focal point must be on the “whole” child. One only has to spend time with our students to understand that they are unique learners who are encouraged to follow a path that is authentically theirs.

I will miss being the Deputy Principal here at St Aidan’s. Thank you for allowing me to be a member of this community that builds character and has enabled me to flourish in order to create a journey that is uniquely and authentically my own, like that of our students. With the warmest of well wishes and blessings.

The Fruit of the Spirit: A Church of England Discussion Paper on Character Education, October 2015

Class of 2022 were born to fly

In December 2022, St Aidan’s was delighted to announce the outstanding academic results of its graduating Year 12 cohort.

The subject results from the Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority (QCAA), and the subsequent ATAR results from the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC), confirmed the consistent and dedicated hard work of the Year 12 cohort. Their remarkable academic results have upheld the school’s longstanding tradition of educational excellence in all areas.

As a non-selective school, one which welcomes students of all abilities, these achievements demonstrate the exceptional calibre of the school’s nurturing environment which fosters and creates such academic excellence.

The ATAR results also reflect the dedicated nature of St Aidan’s teaching staff. Such results are a credit to their inspiring professionalism and commitment to student achievements.

Pictured above: Proxime Accessit – Leila Riemann, Dux – Tian Yin, Principal – Toni Riordan, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, Dux – Ava Schwennesen

Many of our 2022 graduates have commenced further study at a wide range of world-renowned academic institutions across Australia. We encourage our current Year 12 students to embody a similar commitment to the Class of 2022 as they continue through their final year of formal schooling.

We are incredibly proud of each of our 2022 Year 12 students. You are all born to fly.

94.15 MEDIAN ATAR HIGHEST ATAR 99.90 achieved by 2 students

53 students achieved straight A’s in all 5 subjects

100% of all students achieved a QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education)

ATAR OF

12% OF STUDENTS + 99

22% OF STUDENTS

ATAR OF + 98 44% OF STUDENTS

ATAR OF + 95 77% OF STUDENTS

ATAR OF + 90

Aspiring Women LEADERS CONFERENCE

Since 2016, St Aidan’s has been hosting the nationally recognised Next Step Conference for Aspiring Women Leaders.

This year, delegates from the southern states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, from the North Queensland towns of Rockhampton and Mackay travelled to Brisbane to join female educators from Southeast Queensland, on the weekend of 18 and 19 March.

This is a unique conference. It has been purposefully designed to empower women to consider promotional leadership positions in schools, and to support the aspirations of women, ready to take the next step, through firsthand experiences and sharing stories with those who have ‘come before them’.

The conference is deliberately small to ensure everyone has genuine time with facilitators, and the opportunity to make authentic connections with other delegates. Every year the sessions are delivered by passionate school principals and senior leaders, who want to reach back and empower the next generation of leaders.

Congratulations to St Aidan’s participants, Olivia Cox (Curriculum Leader of English 7-10), Nathaele Dawes (Learning Area Leader of Languages), Kirby Egan (Year 5 Teacher), Maddy Hole, (Pastoral Care Leader of Year 8), and Shannon Tobin, (Head of Performance Music) for completing the program this year.

Thank you also to Meg Bishop (Dean of Students), Laura Cooke (Dean of Studies), Karen Madden (Dean of Professional Practice) for facilitating ‘mock interviews and feedback sessions on Sunday, and to Jenny Crome, (Head of Junior School) for sharing her insights and experiences on the Senior Leaders Panel. We acknowledge Tina Henson (Data Systems Manager) for her long-standing commitment to administration of the conference, having assisted since its inception in 2006.

Meet our Teachers

Sophie Taylor (Miss Taylor)

Subject/s and Year Level/s Taught: Year 6 HASS and Year 7, 8 and 10 Geography

Qualifications: Bachelor of Secondary Education

About the Students

If you could take the students on a field trip to anywhere in the world, where would you take them?

If there were no limits, I would go global and visit every continent of the world with my students!

We often joke in Geography class about doing an around-the-world field trip and I would love to make it happen.

About School Life

How do you show your school spirit?

Dressing up! I am a big believer in school spirit and there’s no better way to show your support than putting on a costume and getting in-theme.

Are there any embarrassing teaching moments you are will willing to share?

My most embarrassing teaching moment was ripping my pants when I was working as a teacher aide and having to wear a raincoat around my waist for the rest of the day!

What’s the best thing about being a teacher?

There is no other job in the world like teaching; everyday is unpredictable and exciting. They say life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re going to get – and that’s exactly what it’s like being a teacher.

About Life Outside of School

What is one of your hidden talents?

I am currently learning how to play the drums (I wouldn’t classify it as a ‘talent’ yet, but hopefully one day soon!).

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be?

I would love to work for the Bureau of Meteorology –there’s nothing more exciting to me than checking the radar daily (such a Geo teacher!).

What is your favourite book?

My favourite books from my childhood were anything by Morris Gleitzman, but these days I’m loving reading autobiographies.

What song do you love singing out loud

All of them – my poor neighbours.

If you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much space!

Favourite Quote

Meet our Teachers

Nik Bojic (Mr Bojic)

Subject/s and Year Level/s Taught: P.E. and Science (Kindy to Year 12)

Qualifications: Bachelor of Health Sport and PE (UQ)

About the Students

If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?

Enjoy every moment at school. Looking back I wish I had participated a bit more in some school activities.

If you could take the students on a field trip to anywhere in the world, where would you take them?

African Safari. Most definitely. I think it is unique to see animals that we often only associate with pictures and films… and to be able to see them in real life and how wild they can be would be great.

About School Life

What’s the best thing about being a teacher?

Watching the progression of the students over the timeframe that you teach them. I love watching their excitement and passion build in their subject area.

In which other teacher’s class would you like to enrol for a day?

Why?

Kindy or Prep. I love to see the extremes from Kindy to year 12 students as well as the morning to afternoon.

What is your favourite book?

V for Vendetta

About Life Outside of School

What is one of your hidden talents?

Former Australian representative in high jump. I went to the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

What is your dream holiday?

A white snowy Christmas….. anywhere in the world.

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be? A Police Officer.

In which Hogwarts house would you be sorted?

Not Slitherin

What are your must-have smartphone apps?

Flight Tracker app is incredible! Seeing thousands of planes above any country at any moment is awesome.

What song do you love singing out loud?

Anything Ed Sheeran. Often the school bell. I get caught out singing that in class sometimes. Preference is podcasts though. I am always listening to podcasts driving to places and around the house.

As educators, it is our responsibility to prepare our students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With the rapidly changing landscape of technology, globalisation, and environmental sustainability, our students need to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate and succeed in this everevolving world.

To achieve this goal, we focus on providing our students with a comprehensive education that not only emphasises educational excellence but also cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. To this end, we have developed three signature programs in the Junior School with each program aligned to the St Aidan’s Strategic Direction 2022-2025, the Australian Curriculum and evidence-based research.

With student engagement and progress always at the centre, St Aidan’s delivers these three signature programs to encourage balance, deep learning, challenge and innovation.

FUTURE Ready

MRS JENNY CROME HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Year 4 Academy for Enterprising Girls

Research: A 2021 Accenture report noted that, gender inequality in entrepreneurship and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields is a significant missed opportunity for Australia’s economy and that women continue to remain underrepresented as entrepreneurs, with just one female entrepreneur for every eight males. Women in Australia face additional barriers that prevent them from translating their innovative abilities into commercial outcomes. One of the key barriers is the lack of essential problem-solving, creative thinking, and technical skills; including data analysis and product development; all of which are critical to successful entrepreneurship. With this in mind, the Year 4 students have embarked on a project designed to cultivate their skills in design thinking, entrepreneurial and business skills.

Why: We believe that all girls should be given the opportunity to develop these entrepreneurial (21st century) skills.

The Project: The girls work collaboratively in small groups to meet design challenges. Each challenge focuses on different elements of design thinking and develops an entrepreneurial mindset.

Year 5 STEM Project: Engineering and Design Thinking using Makedo

Research: According to a 2019 OECD Report, 85% of jobs in 2030 have not been invented yet. To address this, there must be “a priority focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).”

When done well, STEM education complements the development of 21st century skills. It’s predicted that future workers will spend more than twice as much time on job tasks requiring science, maths and critical thinking than today.”

https://www.education.gov.au/australian-curriculum/nationalstem-education-resources-toolkit/introductory-material-whatstem/why-stem-important

However, girls and women face systematic obstacles in accessing and pursuing STEM fields, with only 28% of the STEM workforce being female, and men outnumbering women in most STEM majors at universities. St Aidan’s challenges this trend by promoting STEM education for girls.

Why: The future requires creators, innovators and problem solvers who can adapt and pivot when necessary to flourish in a rapidly changing world. In this future, STEM skills are vital.

The Project: Students are using the design thinking process and Makedo tools to collaboratively solve real-life problems related to the curriculum. Working in House groups, they are developing skills such as ideation, empathy, teamwork, and criteria development while solving a problem in the historical novel they are studying. These activities encourage the girls to test and refine their ideas, work collaboratively, and consider different perspectives to develop solutions that meet the criteria for success.

Year 6 Wearable Art Unit entitled Botanicals

Research: Children who study the arts achieve more highly academically (Habibia, Cahn, Damasioa & Damasioa, 2016). Added to this study of the arts is the development of self-discipline, ability to focus, and increased capacity to abstract information for artistic endeavours. Positive effects that come through the study and creation of visual arts and performance strengthens critical thinking skills, visual and spatial skills, confidence and presentation skills needed to navigate an unknown future.

Why: The future requires critical and creative thinkers with confidence.

The Project: Year 6 students work in groups to design, make and prepare a garment using creative, multi-dimensional media. They are encouraged to tell a rich story through the materials chosen to build the piece. Following the creation of their item they organise a showcase for parents. The theme of the showcase is Botanicals. Students are challenged to expand their problem-solving skills, foster their collaboration skills and enhance their curiosity.

Junior School

Swim Fast. Finish Faster

Interhouse Swimming

MRS TRACEY JEANES-FRASER

The Junior School Interhouse Swimming Carnival held on Tuesday 7 February was a huge success, with students from all Houses exhibiting true penguin spirit. Our girl’s put in an amazing effort and their performance showcased the Swimming Captains motto - Swim fast, Finish faster!

Final House placing:

1. Bronte

3. Austen

5. Nightingale

2. Hartland

4. Cavell

6. Barrett

8 Years

1. Olivia Kemp (BR)

2. Lilly Bowen (AU)

3. Chiao Tsai (AU)

9 Years

1. Victoria Ma (NI)

2. Amelia Greaves (NI)

3. Evie Woolmer (BA)

10 Years

1. Abbey Duce (BR)

2. Lyla Austin (AU)

3. Cassie Li (BR)

11 Years

1. Anna Sang (BR)

2. Natalie Chiu (CA)

3. Jade Cameron (BA)

12 Years

1. Holly Henderson (HA)

2. Pippa Steer (BA)

3. India Wehl (CA)

OPEN 100m Freestyle

1. Natalie Chiu (CA)

2. Anna Sang (BR)

3. Holly Henderson (HA)

OPEN 100m Individual Medley

1. Anna Sang (BR)

2. Natalie Chiu (CA)

3. Holly Henderson (HA)

Junior School Snapshot

Junior School Extracurricular

There is never a dull moment in our Junior School. Not only do our girls have access to incredible facilities and learning opportunities in the classroom, but they also enjoy a diverse range of extracurricular activities and clubs before school, during breaks and after school.

Facilitated and supported by our dedicated teachers, these clubs include creative pursuits such as Art, Chess and Games. Those seeking to improve their technology capabilities attend our Techmate evenings or join our STEMies and Coding/Robotics groups. Others with a knack for languages and cultural connectivity pursue Wasabi Club and Sensei Says while some participate in Mindfulness and Philosophy.

Our student-led Earth Angels group actively maintain our gardens and discuss environmental issues, while our GirlZone Book Club for Year 6 girls and their mothers/significant females is held twice a term at night to read and discuss popular books with our Librarian.

We look forward to introducing Little Chefs this term.

OUTDOOR Education

At St Aidan’s, our Outdoor Education Program focuses on personal development through interaction with others and connection to the natural environment.

MRS JENNY CROME HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Outdoor education supports the development of independence, confidence, initiative, decision-making and problem-solving skills. In fact, the social skills that are developed through outdoor education include collaborative and leadership skills and the ability to manage the challenge of an unfamiliar environment.

Our school camps form part of the outdoor education program and are carefully selected to give students a range of activities outside their usual environment.

In Term 1, our Year 4 students spent two days at Maroochy Waterfront Camp where they worked with Character Builders reflecting on how they could step up, step back and encourage one another when trying something new that is out of their comfort zone. Students participated in standup paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, dragon boat racing and beach activities. We were blessed with perfect weather and the girls thoroughly enjoyed their time and the challenges of the camp.

Our Year 5 students enjoyed three days camping at Camp Currimundi. They developed their outdoor skills through activities such as high ropes, canoeing and archery. Many team-building exercises and personal growth improved their resilience and confidence.

These camps are an exceptional opportunity for our students to develop independence and safe risk-taking behaviour. The accredited instructors lead physical activities to help grow the essential skills, knowledge and behaviours to live healthy and active lives.

Each activity fits into a category and aligns to the Sport Australia Physical Literacy Framework, with the following dimensions:

• Physical

• Psychological

• Social

• Cognitive

Overall, our Outdoor Education Program provides a unique opportunity for students to develop essential life skills and connect with the natural world. It is an integral part of the curriculum and contributes significantly to the personal growth of our students.

Futures Conference The Aspiring

MS JENNIE ROBINSON

We had another fabulous Futures Week at the end of Term 1.

As well as looking at Senior School life, subject options and preparation for post school study, it was great to be able to hear from our Learning Area Leaders and Curriculum Leaders. Many of their presentations are available on the Futures Conference section of the Year 10 page in Aidan’s Central so that students and families can refer back when needed.

Our visits to universities and TAFE exposed girls to a wide range of future possibilities. During our mini careers fair we welcomed the ladies from WIDAC (Women in Design and Construction) who represented a range of design careers, the ADF (Australian Defence Force), Queensland Police, Sarina Russo and the Oxley Creek Catchment Association.

We were also privileged to hear from Jade Demnar, an Associate Director in the Australian Signals Directorate, who not only shared some insight into this secretive organisation but provided some very valuable advice to our girls about their futures.

We missed Reverend Gillian who always challenges us with opportunities to consider our lives and the big philosophical questions. Thank you to Mrs Riordan for stepping in to help us. A variety of games and activities added to the week to finish off a busy term and provide girls with a foundation to consider future choices.

Map out your future but do it in pencil. The road ahead is yet to be revealed.

Experiencing the Great Outdoors

Year 7 Camp

Our Year 7 students expanded their comfort zones during their camp at Mount Tamborine in February. They built rafts, completed challenging high ropes courses, scrambled and swam through creeks, fossicked for thundereggs in Thunderbird Park and developed their bush survival skills. Throughout the days and nights they had opportunities to participate in team-building challenges, build their collaboration and communication skills, and take part in an Indigenous experience.

Year 8 Camp

Our Year 8 cohort recently embarked on their first overnight school camp to Adventure Alternative’s Kenilworth Site. With COVID19 impacting their initial high school camp experience in 2022, this was their first time staying three nights away from home and all students took this experience in their stride.

The girls participated in a number of different activities such as orienteering, a high ropes team building belaying challenge and sustainability activities, with the highlight being the giant ladder rope climb. The students also took part in a challenging hike in the Booloumba National Park and proved that they were ‘Stronger Together’ by putting one foot in front of the other together as a team to reach the top of a number of steep hills. The Year 8 teachers saw many students achieving wonderful personal growth moments and we look forward to seeing continued connections this year.

Year 9 Camp

The 2023 Year 9 Camp was an expedition along the Blackall track between Mapleton and Flaxton. Over four days, the girls followed the National Parks trial echoing the footsteps of the First Nation Jinibarra people who would have travelled this path as they gathered for the annual Bunya nut festival. They also visited well-known sites such as Mapleton and Kondalilla Falls where a number of them took the opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim.

During the camp the girls responded incredibly well to the challenges of hiking with full packs, sleeping three nights in tents and preparing their own food on portable stoves. A highlight for most girls was the mud challenge in Mapleton where they demonstrated their ingenuity and persistence in a series of games based on the traditional Bunya nut festival. It was very pleasing to see the great teamwork, joy and determination as the girls wholeheartedly embraced the experience, no doubt creating memories and forging friendships that will last a lifetime.

Senior School

Interhouse Cross Country

ANDY MCGREGOR-LOWNDES

Congratulations to Austen who won the Inter House Cross Country. Well done to Cavell who won the Silver Slipper. This year we introduced a new format that encouraged both competitive racing and participation. It was great to see so many students involved on the day demonstrating their House spirit!

Final House points and placing:

1. Austen 598 points

2. Hartland 568 points

3. Cavell 555 points

4. Barrett 522 points

5. Bronte 515 points

6. Nightingale 453 points

Silver Slipper XC Relay - Cavell

12 Years

1. Amelia Lee (BA)

2. Ruby Deveney (BA)

3. Katherine Chiu (CA)

13 Years

1. Olivia Bron (NI)

2. Natsuki Inoue (HA)

3. Grace Hefner (HA)

14 Years

1. Layla Pennisi (NI)

2. Mischa Gurgo (AU)

3. Lauren Deighton (HA)

15 Years

1. Isabella Valinoti (CA)

2. Grace Cadwallader (BA)

3. Arahi Walker (HA)

16 Years

1. Matilda Lee (BA)

2. Abigail Jones (AU)

3. Rebecca Teahen (AU)

17+ Years

1. Jemima Bennett (CA)

2. Arabella Dickfos (AU)

3. Ellie Reid (NI)

St Aidan’s is going to

In January of this year, St Aidan’s fielded a team of 12 students who participated at the finals of the Australian Space Design Competition, held at The University of Queensland over two days. St Aidan’s was partnered with students from Patrician Brothers College in Sydney to form one of four companies that were competing against each other to develop the winning tender for a lunar settlement.

For the fifth year in a row, the St Aidan’s company (Magellan) was successful in winning the national competition and as a result have qualified for the International Space Settlement Design Competition, to be held at NASA Kennedy Space Centre in the USA in late July. Planning is now underway for this exciting trip which will also include travel to a range of space related exhibits and attractions, and site-seeing, in Washington DC and San Francisco.

Congratulations to all of the students who worked so hard to win this competition. Special mention should be made for our outgoing Year 12 leaders, Lucy Bristow (Head of Structural Design), Thea Woolley (Head of Automation) and Olivia Allison (CEO), for their outstanding contribution and leadership over the last three years of the competition.

The Australian Space Design Competition is an aerospace and engineering industry simulation for secondary school students from around Australia who are interested in STEM careers and the future of space exploration.

This is the 17th consecutive year that St Aidan’s has qualified for the finals.

MR TIM KEMP

St Aidan’s performs at Government House

The incredible opportunities provided to our students was displayed when our Da Capo String Quartet was personally invited by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, to perform at her International Women’s Day Garden Reception in March this year.

After seeing the quartet play in the foyer of City Hall prior to the St Aidan’s Academic and Honours Awards Ceremony in February, Her Excellency contacted the school to request they serenade her guests at the special event.

Enriching Lives Through Music

At St Aidan’s our Junior School girls are offered the opportunity to participate in three carefully tailored age-appropriate enrichment programs – Beginner Strings (Year 2), Junior Singers (Years 2 and 3) and Beginner Band (Year 4).

MRS SUE FIGLIANO

LEARNING AREA LEADER - ARTS I CURRICULUM LEADER - MUSIC

By the end of these three years, students are inducted into these diverse yet complementary musical practices through regular lessons and group rehearsals with specialist staff.

The content for these programs is derived from the Everyday Music Classroom Program which is a unique program offered in the St Aidan’s Junior School. Everyday Music involves students being immersed in musical activities for twenty minutes each day, rather than having longer lessons less frequently.

The impact of this approach has been found to have a positive effect on students’ academic progress as well as their music learning. It is hoped that through students engaging in daily study of Music, their regular schooling results will also improve, producing highly educated and skilled minds.

Skills developed through the Everyday Program such as pitch, rhythm, social, physical, emotional, and intellectual capabilities are proliferated and expanded upon through participation with the enrichment programs. Additionally, the enrichment programs enable students to try a variety of modes of musical expression. Many girls go on to participate in the diverse extra-curricular music ensembles offered at St Aidan’s which further augments their music learning and related competencies.

Parents & Friends

The St Aidan’s Parents and Friends Association aims to create community connections by hosting numerous events throughout the year and providing opportunities for parents to meet each other. St Aidan’s is lucky to have a vibrant and supportive parent community who are keen to build connections either through volunteering or supporting the P&F activities.

We would like to offer a warm welcome to our 2023 Executive. Once again, we have a strong leadership team who have planned an exciting year with the goal of both ‘friend’ raising and fundraising to enhance our girls’ learning experiences and environment.

President – Reuben Saayman

Vice-President – Kate Thomas

Treasurer – Kris Whitehead

Secretary – Carl Quarterman

The P&F in 2023 will continue to build a strong culture of Parent – School engagement. We are all in this together! We encourage parents to stay up to date through the P&F page on Aidan’s Central as we will post our upcoming events and news via this page.

We look forward to welcoming each of you at a range of events this year.

Father Daughter BREAKFAST

SOLD OUT

Mother Daughter

BREAKFAST

Friday 12 May 6.45am - 8.30am

St Aidan’s Christine Hartland Centre

Cost $30 per person includes a breakfast box with tea, coffee and juice.

BOOK ONLINE via Humanitix by Friday 28 April 2023

Thursday

31 August

6.45am - 8.30am

St Aidan’s Christine Hartland Centre

$25 per person or $250 per table (tables of 10) Purchase

On behalf of the St Aidan’s Foundation Board I would like to offer a special thank you to our out-going Chair and Foundation Board member Rachel Condos-Fields. For the past six years Rachel has brought an inspirational dynamic to St Aidan’s that combined her executive business nous with her passion for the empowerment of sporting talent and athletes. Rachel has guided the Foundation through the early stages of the redevelopment of the Ambiwerra campus, navigated the challenges of a pandemic, and set us on a path to sustainable success. We will surely miss Rachel’s energy and look forward to her cheering us on from the sidelines as she promises to do.

I am both humbled and honoured to have been asked by Principal Toni Riordan to step up in the interim as Chair, and am under no illusion that I have very special shoes to fill! Having been on the Foundation Board now for two years, I bring a genuine belief in the holistic benefits of the capital projects we are focused on.

As a parent of a recent St Aidan’s year 12 graduate, I have witnessed first-hand the benefits from the thought that goes into fundraising for our school, always with the genuine welfare of our daughters as a central concern. It has been beautiful to watch how our daughter and her friends continue the sense of their St Aidan’s community and care for one another and remain grateful for their experiences. But there is much work to be done to ensure the redevelopment projects continue and we cannot do this without your support. I encourage you all to keep the momentum and excitement building ahead of Giving Day on June 15, so our girls can continue to fly into their future.

Foundation Chair

Dr Anne Kruger

1929 Society High Tea

The 1929 Society High Tea has become a highly anticipated event amongst the community. The event brings together donors, alumni, supporters and volunteers to celebrate the stories and connection to St Aidan’s, as well as honours our 1929 Society Custodians who are leaving a legacy to support current and future students of St Aidan’s.

The 1929 Society is an organisation that encourages and recognises individuals who have made a planned gift to the school. Planned gifts, also known as bequests, are charitable donations made through wills, trusts or other estate planning instruments. The 1929 Society celebrates these individuals during their lifetime to acknowledge their contribution.

This year’s wonderful event was held in the Gold Room of the Queensland Club and was attended by Custodians, alumni, past and current staff, past and current council members, past and current parents, Foundation Directors and Patrons. Guests reminisced and discussed their connection to St Aidan’s, with many wonderful stories shared and more than a few laughs heard around the table. It was also lovely to be able to welcome an additional four Custodians to the Society. The event has created a sense of community around planned giving and it has helped to promote the importance of leaving a legacy to support future girls and women of St Aidan’s.

If you are interested in leaving a planned gift to St Aidan’s please contact Julia McKenna, Director of Development & Community at j.mckenna@staidans.qld.edu.au.

Foundation

Giving Day 2023

Giving Day is a special day held each year when students, staff, alumni, as well as current, enrolled and past families, come together to donate money to a specific cause. Over the last three Giving Days the St Aidan’s community has contributed to the development of the Sports Performance Centre at Ambiwerra, student bursaries, or both. As a community we have funded 61 bursaries to ensure students have been able to enjoy a St Aidan’s education. In addition, we have also been able to make significant progress on the Sports Performance Centre.

This year, the focus of Giving Day will be to raise money to for our Centenary Projects including current and future building works. Our current building projects include:

• Stage 2 of Ambiwerra: the Sports Performance Centre

• Aidan’s Place – a brand-new cafeteria

• Pavilion - new Junior School classrooms

We will also be raising funds for scholarships so that we can provide opportunities for new students who couldn’t otherwise afford to attend St Aidan’s. These include:

• General Academic Excellence Scholarship,

• Winifred Davenport STEM Academic Excellence Scholarship

• Music Excellence Scholarship

• Spor ting Excellence Scholarship

• Old Girls’ Association Scholarship

Contributing to Giving Day fosters our community spirit and a shared sense of purpose among students, staff, alumni and parents. Every donation counts, regardless of the amount and shows that we care about the growth of our school. This year all donations will be doubled due to our generous matching donors. We will also run our House competition with each House aiming to raise the most funds or have the most donations. Will Cavell take out both wins again this year?

Together, we can make a positive impact on our learning environment and create a better future for our students and those who will come after them.

If you would like to be a matching donor or volunteer on Giving Day, please contact Julia McKenna, Director of Development & Community at j.mckenna@staidans.qld.edu.au.

Making a difference

St Aidan’s is proud to have an incredible group of students who emanate philanthropy. These students have contributed to the culture of giving in our community – giving time, money, experience, skills and talent.

We have two main groups in the school who foster and share their passion for helping others – Penguin Aid in the Junior School and Interact in the Senior School.

The students in these groups have created a supportive and connected community that lends a caring hand and builds an awareness that everyone can help make an impact in the lives of others and bring about social change.

They have provided Easter Eggs to Child Services Beenleigh, toiletries and personal products to women experiencing homelessness (via the Kenmore Brookfield Anglican Church and Reverend Jan Crombie) and multiple car loads of nonperishable goods, groceries, toys, and Christmas decorations to families in need in North Brisbane (via Anglicare).

These groups have also run local fundraisers –donut stalls, sausage sizzles and free dress days –to help raise funds for many worthy causes including our Nepalese sponsor child, Melanoma research (donated in memory of Emma Betts, a St Aidan’s Old Girl), Hummingbird House, a paediatric palliative care service for young people, Friends with Dignity, Mater Chicks in Pink and the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

Our students are to be praised for their passion for thinking beyond themselves and recognising that although they are young, they are change-makers by investing in a better future.

“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

Warren Buffett

Ambiwerra History

In 1983, St Aidan’s purchased a 17-acre site, five minutes from the Ruthven Street campus, to be used as sporting fields and to maximise the potential of the main school.

This land, previously used as a dairy farm, became home to a 400-metre oval with eight lanes, two full size hockey fields, three netball courts, three volleyball courts and provided space for softball, cricket and many other sports.

In 1985, the school appointed groundsman/caretaker Graham Caslick to oversee the land, which he did, for the next 17 years.

Also in 1985, the school was contacted by Mrs Geldart, the grandchild of the owners of the original house from which St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School was first established in 1929.

She advised that her grandparents’ house was called ‘Ambiwerra’ which meant ‘Girls over there by running water’ and suggested the school take this name for the new fields.

In 1997, the land adjoining Ambiwerra, known as “The Strawberry Farm” was acquired, resulting in a 2.5 hectare space for students and staff of Ambiwerra.

Ambiwerra Redevelopment

Stage

2 of the Ambiwerra Sports Precinct Redevelopment is well underway.

A formal Turning of the Soil event marked the commencement late last year with The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk Premier of Queensland, attending in support of the construction.

The second stage of the Ambiwerra Sports Precinct Redevelopment is a critical piece of work which involves transforming the existing land owned by St Aidan’s from sporting fields and a dam into a new state-of-the-art Sports Performance Centre. Due for completion in late 2023, it will provide us with a 96 metre-long indoor court to use for a range of sports, along with an additional flexible learning space.

This is a significant milestone in the life of St Aidan’s as we have begun to unlock the immense potential of the Ambiwerra site. The opportunity to develop comprehensive educational, sporting and community facilities on this site allows us to increase our offerings in sport, health, wellbeing and environmental studies as well as increasing our community partnerships.

These new Ambiwerra facilities will soon offer world leading facilities for our P.E. students, athletes and young sportswomen as well as the staff who teach, coach and mentor them. Building upon this space will also allow us to dream big for future teaching and learning infrastructure at our campuses at Ruthven Street and allow us to continue to fulfill our vision to educate the whole girl – through sport, academic, and cultural endeavours – in a nurturing environment that offers educational excellence.

St Aidan’s worked closely with architect Blight Rayner to ensure that the infrastructure and facilities have creative solutions and environmentally sustainable material to blend in the with the natural environment

The sports performance centre has been designed to overlook the parkland and creek, provide natural ventilation and light, and has an arbour that forms a sunshade canopy to protect the northern edge.

We would also like to thank our building partners ATG Projects and DMA Partners for making this a reality.

The St Aidan’s Foundation has contributed $800,000 to the Stage 2 development so far.

If you would like to make a donation to help reach $1 million, please email foundation@staidans.qld.edu.au

Ambiwerra Redevelopment

Stage 3 of the Ambiwerra Master Plan will see the addition of a café, green space, a designated learn to swim pool, and a 10 lane, 50 metre Olympic pool for swimming and water polo.

Artist Impressions of the Ambiwerra Development

Ruthven Street Campus

Underneath the wisteria, near the corner of the neighbouring property (where the swimming pool currently sits) was the original St Aidan’s Tuckshop. It was a simple shelter shed built out of timber with two sides and panel that became a table to serve lunches on.

Profits from sale of these lunches was used to make two ‘study sheds’ where the girls could come to sit, eat, read and study.

Although the physical elements of this original tuckshop are long gone, the memories remain. One memory in particular is the dedication and joy shown by the tuckshop convenor Mrs Beryl Caslick, who served the school tirelessly from 1986 to 2006. She made pikelets and muffins and wholesome snacks for the girls and hearty breakfasts for the rowers.

Our Strategic Direction – Leading the Future 2022 - 2025 outlines the strategic intention within the Nurturing Environment pillar to deliver the early stages of the St Aidan’s Master Plans. Aside from Ambiwerra, we also have facility development occurring at our Ruthven Street campuses.

Aidan’s Place – NEW

The recent demolition of Le Fanu undercroft, including the tuckshop, old uniform shop, old text hire and art classroom, has paved the way for the expansion and improvement of student facilities.

This ground level area has been reimagined and will soon feature our relocated O2 Café as well as a large self-serve cafeteria with seating for over 100 people. Aidan’s Place will provide an additional bright and welcoming entrance to the Senior School and will complement the recent refurbishments of the Le Fanu classrooms on Levels 1 and 2 which were completed over the 2022 summer holidays.

We are working towards a Term 3, 2023 opening of Aidan’s Place.

The Pavilion – NEW

Our Junior School will soon be home to two new classrooms to help us continue to grow our leaders of tomorrow and deliver a future-focused girls’ education. Sitting adjacent to Charma Place, the site for our Pavilion has been prepared and is ready for construction. These new classrooms will maximise the green space and natural light surrounding it.

Original Tuckshop

Aidan’s Place

Opening Term 3 2023

ALUMNI Reunions

Ascension

Day

(All Welcome)

Thursday 18 May, 11am

Reunion Reminders

Young Old Girls (Classes of 2014-2022)

10 Year Reunion (Class of 2013)

Friday 19 May, 5.30pm

20 Year Reunion (Class of 2003)

30 Year Reunion (Class of 1993)

Saturday 20 May, 11.30am

40 Year Reunion (Class of 1983)

50 Year Reunion (Class of 1973)

Sunday 21 May, 11.30am

60 Year Reunion (Class of 1963)

Thursday 18 May, 1.15pm

70 Year Reunion (Class of 1953)

Thursday 18 May, 11am

ALUMNI I Awards

Nominate an outstanding St Aidan’s GRADUATE

The St Aidan’s Alumni Awards celebrate the diverse achievements of our alumni and provide an opportunity to share these stories. From leadership in business and government to ground-breaking research in science and medicine; from accomplishments in athletics, humanities and the arts to acts of service for global and local communities; our St Aidan’s alumni bring honour to themselves, to our School and inspire others.

What is required to nominate:

• A completed nomination form and current CV/resume of the nominee

• A written statement (maximum 500 words) detailing why the nominee deserves to be recognised and how they meet the criteria for the award

• Any supporting evidence such as awards, media clippings, video footage, etc.

NOMINATIONS CLOSE: 30 June 2023

ALUMNI Awards

In honour of our Remarkable Women

CAROLINE AMY ALUMNI AWARD

This pinnacle Alumni award recipient exemplifies continuous and significant contributions in professional, community, cultural, sporting or leadership achievement. They inspire and uplift those around them through their lifelong pursuits.

Named in honour of Caroline Amy Balguy (1833 – 1915) – Known as Sister Caroline Amy and later Mother Caroline; Caroline Amy Balguy started her religious life at the Community of St John Baptist in Clewer, England. She came to Australia in 1892 and founded The Society of the Sacred Advent, focusing on ministering to the needs of women and children. Under her guidance the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent established several schools and children’s homes throughout Queensland.

MOTHER EMMA ALUMNI AWARD

Established in 2019, in celebration of St Aidan’s 90-year history, the Mother Emma Award celebrates achievement in the areas of entrepreneurship and innovation. The award recipient demonstrates game changing and trail blazing endeavours across community or professional life. They may have pursued an alternative study or experience pathways to create their mark on the world.

Named in honour of Mother Emma (1864 – 1939) – Born in 1859 in England, Mother Emma (born Emma Crawford) travelled to Australia and was admitted to the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent in 1886. She became Sister in Charge of Eton High School (later known as St Margaret’s). Mother Emma led the Sisters for 33 years, during the difficult social times of the First World War and the Great Depression.

EMMA BETTS ALUMNI AWARD

Recognises young alumni (30 years or younger at the time of nomination) whose professional or volunteer accomplishments demonstrate a significant positive impact – locally, nationally or internationally. As an inspirational role model, they have raised their profile and standing within the community to create positive impact in their field.

Named in honour of Emma Betts (1991 – 2017) – Emma Betts’ life was defined by a desire to help others. She worked internationally in the rehabilitation of people with physical disabilities and volunteered in youth-run aid and development organisations. Following her melanoma diagnosis she was a dedicated cancer awareness campaigner.

ALUMNI Awards

2022 EMMA BETTS ALUMNI AWARD

Sarah Kaese (2010)

At 28 years of age, Sarah Kaese has overcome many difficulties and yet achieved so much. Sarah’s courage and desire to serve the nation began early when she enlisted in the Royal Australian Navy at the age of 17 as a Maritime Warfare Officer. Sarah’s enthusiasm to positively influence those working above, under, and alongside her was evident from the moment she began her initial officer training.

As an officer in the military, Sarah is passionate about representing her country with pride. In her various postings across eight different ships, Sarah also demonstrated a strong desire for mentoring, training and caring for others. She received a ‘Bravo Zulu Award’, issued by the Commanding Officer of HMAS Armidale, who commended Sarah for her “performance, professionalism and outstanding attitude while fulfilling the OP RELIEF Navigation Officer role. [Her] dedication and commitment during an extremely busy period has been noted by [the Commanding Officer and crew]. [Sarah’s] contribution to the training and development of [junior sailors and officers] has not gone unnoticed.”

2022 MOTHER EMMA ALUMNI AWARD

Hannah Gartside (2004)

Hannah Gartside is an artist in every sense of the word. Her works span sculpture, installation and video. Characteristically sensual and poetic, she transforms found fabrics and clothing to articulate experiences and sensations of longing, tenderness, care and desire. Her work has most recently been exhibited as part of Primavera: Young Australian Artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney. For this exhibition, Hannah created a series of dynamic, fabric-mediated mechanised artworks.

Hannah’s list of exhibitions is extensive and covers a range of the museums and art galleries across the country.

Hannah has undertaken residencies at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, Melbourne and the Varda Artist Residency California USA. She received a Bachelor of Fine Art (Sculpture) from University of Melbourne, Victorian College of the Arts, in 2016, and a BFA (Fashion Design) from Queensland University of Technology in 2007. Prior to her visual art training, Gartside worked as costume-maker for five years, mainly on productions for Queensland Ballet.

Hannah is a multi-award winner of the National Gallery of Victoria Women’s Association Award and has been finalist and winner in a range of other national art awards.

CAROLINE AMY ALUMNI AWARD

Michele Sterling (1978)

Michele Serling remembers her time at St Aidan’s fondly and recalls the eventual alignment of her with curiosity and interest in science. After completing a clinical degree in physiotherapy and working as a clinical physiotherapist in both the public and private sectors in Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia for 20 years, she undertook a Graduate Diploma in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, graduating with distinction, from Curtin University (Perth). This sparked her interest in chronic life-long pain. Having treated many patients with chronic pain, she saw first-hand the anxiety and depression they felt as a result and was driven to complete a Masters of Research and a PhD to understand why and how chronic pain develops.

Michele’s research has received national and international recognition. She has published over 200 scientific papers, three books (one a seminal physiotherapy textbook), received numerous awards and been invited to speak at over 40 international conferences. Michele has contributed to multidisciplinary clinical and research fields including physiotherapy, medicine, psychology, economics, rehabilitation amongst others and was made a Professor in 2012.

She currently leads a NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Road Traffic Injury Recovery at The University of Queensland, but her overall goal remains – to improve the health of people after injury so that they can return to productive and healthy lives doing what they enjoy.

ALUMNI Awards

2021 ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS

2021 Caroline Amy Award Marianne Wobcke (1978)

2021 Mother Emma Award Louise Crozier (2007)

2021 Emma Betts Award Kyu-Yeon Choi (2010)

ALUMNI Sp tlight

Chelsea Ho graduated from St Aidan’s in 2014 and completed a Bachelor of Medical Science and a Doctor of Medicine degree from 2015-2020.

During these studies she joined the School Council, relishing the chance to help shape the strategic direction of St Aidan’s, contribute to the diversity of the board by bringing a unique perspective as a young adult, and also learn from the experience of other council directors.

What did you do after you finished at St Aidan’s and did you know that this would be your career path when you were in Year 11/12?

I studied with Griffith University and completed a Bachelor of Medical Science followed by a Doctor of Medicine degree (2015-2020). My placements have led me to live in Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Ipswich so far. Whilst I resonated with science-related subjects in high school, I actually didn’t know whether medicine would suit me until I started working in the hospital.

What is your role now and how long have you been doing it for?

I am a Resident Medical Officer currently at Ipswich Hospital. This is my second year out from graduation. As junior doctors, we work in teams with our registrars and consultants. Throughout the year we rotate through different medical specialties to get more experience. I’ve worked in 11 specialties so far, including Emergency, Anaesthetics, Infectious Diseases and Urology.

What achievement in life are you most proud of? Have you received any awards/accolades we should mention?

I received a University Medal for the Doctor of Medicine degree.

Other special moments in my life include committing my faith in Jesus and getting married to my husband Tom last year.

How did you get involved in St Aidan’s School Council?

Toni Riordan asked me whether I would consider serving on the council during my third year in the M.D. program, and I was excited at the opportunity to give back to St Aidan’s in this capacity.

ALUMNI Sp tlight

Did you already have a passion for governance and where/when did that start?

During my undergraduate years I developed an interest in related areas like economics and finance, and I was involved as an executive member in a few student committees. However, St Aidan’s School Council was my first official governance role.

What do you enjoy most about serving on School Council?

Playing a part in shaping St Aidan’s strategic direction into the future. I also enjoy learning from the other council directors as they bring a wealth of experience from various industries. It’s great to see St Aidan’s commitment to board diversity and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring a unique perspective as a young adult.

Any advice for current students interested in pursuing a career in medicine or Old Girls wishing to give back in the governance space?

Medicine is an extremely rewarding career and I can’t think of any other industry that aligns with my moral and ethical values more than healthcare. However, the personal sacrifices can be huge, especially once you graduate and enter the workforce.

If you are looking for governance opportunities, I would encourage you to speak with as many consultants, registrars and residents about their experiences and ask to shadow them at work. I would say that there is a specialty for almost every personality and also there are so many opportunities for non-clinical work in government and private sectors.

ALUMNI NEWS

Engagements

Georgia Warburton (2014) to Lonan Simmonds

Chai Jie Low (2009) to Rollin Zhao on 1 January 2023 in Edinburgh, Scotland

Marriages

Belinda Wood (2009) to Adam Carberry

Emma Schafer (2006) married Mitchell Sainty on 24 March 2023 at Mooloolaba.

Births

Emma’s bridesmaids were all Old Girls (2006) - Georgina Kerr, Dina Magan (Amin) and Meredith Hartigan.

Births

Rachel (Armstrong 2001) and David Bentley welcomed Astrid Drew Bentley on 31 March 2022

Amy Wagner (2004) and husband welcomed their second son Ethan George Breham 28 July 2022, brother to Leo Marcus.

Ellen (Armstrong 2004) and Andrew Woodgate welcomed Archibald (Archie) William Woodgate on 7 April 2022

Alice Brandon (née Tidmarsh 2007) and Matt Brandon welcomed Angus James Brandon on 14 December 2022.

Alice (Finley 2002) and David Pesce welcomed Beatrice Margaret Pesce 23 May 2022

Meg (Rylance 2007) and Adrian Dragicevic welcomed Indiana (Indi) Dragicevic on 2 June 2022

Ellie Kersevani (née Slater 2007) and Joshua Kersevani welcomed their third child and first daughter, Genevieve Annice Kersevani on 9 January 2023.

Carmen (Shields 2002) and Chris Cavallaro welcomed Georgia Cate Cavallaro on 6 June 2022

Milestone Birthdays

Congratulations Wilma Veale (née Francis 1939) on your 100th birthday.

Zanny (George 2007) and Jim RobertsThomson welcomed Harry Adrian RobertsThomson on 25 July 2022

Zoe (Cruse 2009) and Nick Knowlman welcomed Oliver James Arthur Knowlman on 4 August 2022

Donations

Thank you to those who have generously donated memorabilia to our Archives:

Lesley Pearce (1943)

Eliza (Goddard 2007) and Tom Woodley welcomed Jack Thomas Woodley on 11 August 2022

Rachel Myers (1991)

Shaunagh Kellaway (1980)

Julie Wallace (née Kellaway 1978)

Sue Laidlaw (1978)

Georgina Kerr (2006), Dina Magan (Amin) (2006), Emma Schafer (2006) and current kindergarten teacher and and Meredith Hartigan (2006)

ALUMNI NEWS

Congratulations

Chloe Sawyer (2014) graduated with a Bachelor of Environmental Science (UQ) and is completing a graduate program at Nyrstar in Hobart.

Tayla Stafford (2013) is now an Investment Banker with Goldman Sachs. She was one of three people (and only woman) offered the position in Melbourne.

Artists in Profile

Emma Schoutrop (2017) visited Year 10 Art students and shared her story about being an art student and becoming an engineer.

Dord Burrough (2005) exhibited in Lon Gallery Melbourne. Her abstract paintings depicted “poetic memories of places and heart-felt states of mind.”

Alexandra Matthews (née Harvey 1980) exhibited her latest collection of paintings “Walking Pace” at Lethbridge Gallery in Paddington, Brisbane.

Thinking of You

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Leslie Trotter, (former staff member 1974 - 2000) in this difficult time.

Congratulations

Lucy Barnard (2000) became the first woman to walk the length of South America. Follow her journey on Instagram @tanglesandtail.

Vale

Pamela O’Connell (née Webb 1962) passed away on 10 October 2020.

Carolyn Woolley (1975) passed away on 26 August 2022.

Desley Wilson (née Taylor 1954) passed away on 14 January 2023. Mother to Marion Slater (née Wilson 1980) and grandmother to Ellie Kersevani (née Slater 2007).

Diana Benson (née Shaw 1957) passed away on 25 January 2023.

Diana Briggs (née Derrick 1952) passed away in February 2023.

Dawn Wham (former staff member 1959 –1962) passed away on 21 February 2023.

LEFT - Jumping for joy Desley Wilson (nee Taylor) 1952 GPS Athletics Team

ABOVE - 1957 Lifesaving Team Adrienne and Diana Benson (Shaw)

ALUMNI NEWS

Interstate Reunions

We were delighted to share the weekend of 21 – 23 April with our Interstate Alumni. The time spent listening to stories and memories with our Past students in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne was incredibly special as this was our first trip since 2019. Although it was a whirlwind visit, we managed to spend quality time catching up whilst enjoying High Tea and bubbles. We came away feeling inspired, connected, and impressed by the confidence and sense of empowerment that our girls of all ages possess.

We cannot wait to reconnect again in 2024.

ALUMNI NEWS

Where in the world are our Alumni?

No matter where in the world our Alumni are, we want to stay connected with you and build a vibrant and engaged Alumni community.

The recent campaign was launched in March and we have received responses from Milan to Amman, from London to Melbourne and Laos to Tennessee.

If you have not already updated your details, we’d love to hear from you and continue to add pink dots to our world map.

Where are you on our Alumni map ?

The Last Word

Merciful Friend, let us live long or die tomorrow, but please keep us in the upsurge of the eternal life which has broken into time and embraces us today. This is life- the real thing! It is joy, peace, abundance. It is immortality! Praises be your name forever! Amen.

(Bruce Prewer, Jesus our Future)

No doubt those of you with young children or grandchildren will be all too familiar with the song from Frozen. The lead character Elsa has left civilisation behind and is rejoicing in her freedom and isolation. She is above everything, nothing can touch her now, she has let it all go.

For some, the first term has been characterised by grief. Grief is a strange emotion, and one that most of us are not very comfortable with. We all face grief and loss in our lives, but often it is easier to just move on and suppress the emotions. Like Elsa, we long to be above it all while the storm rages around us.

Then something happens, like the death of someone in the wider community, and we are stunned to find how much it affects us too.

Far from being something to avoid, grief is an emotion worth paying attention to. Grief tells us what matters. Grief tells us that we have lost something of value. It is important that we don’t try to just move on, or be Frozen, but to allow ourselves to feel all the pain that it entails.

It also reminds us how important it is to have a world view that helps us to make sense of our loss. This is why humans have always wondered what happens to us after death. And while images of reincarnation or heaven and hell may leave you cold (as they do me), we do have in the gospel of Jesus a promise that life, whatever it looks like after death, still has meaning and value, and is held by God. Paradoxically, it is in the holding on and valuing of life that we can find it is possible, after all, to Let it Go and fall into the Creator’s embrace.

Blessings, The Reverend Gillian Moses Chaplain

Let it go, let it go, I am one with the wind and sky

Let it go, let it go, You’ll never see me cry

Here I stand and here I’ll stay

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School

A School of the Society of the Sacred Advent 11 Ruthven St, Corinda Qld 4075 Australia

P +61 7 3373 5999

E reception@staidans.qld.edu.au

www.staidans.qld.edu.au

St Aidan’s School Council Ltd

CRICOS Code: 01194K

ABN: 310 749 995 27