Admissions
Demand for “the Andrew’s experience” remains extremely high; just 14% of applicants seeking a place in College this year were successful, making St Andrew’s College the most sought-after university college in Australia. It is, however, with great regret that we turn away hundreds of excellent applicants each year For this reason, we are looking forward to the completion of the Thyne Reid Link, which will greatly increase our capacity to offer places
One of our long-term admissions objectives is garnering comparable demand from government school students – currently a small percentage of applicants – and independent school students This entails offering $1 5m worth of scholarships annually (many of which are means tested to ensure that meritorious students are not precluded
On B ard Rev with the
Rev Dr Gareth Clayton OAM, Chaplain
It just can't be done! - but it can!
from attending College for financial reasons) and building greater awareness of colleges in rural Australia. Having already visited a dozen expos and twenty schools this year, we ’ re off to a great start.
Our message to prospective students is very simple As the Sydney Morning Herald pointed out earlier this year, “university life has changed Gone are the unhurried days when it was as much about social learning as it was about the academic kind Modern students still crave interaction, but have arrived at uni at a time when that is much harder to achieve ” In other words, if you are looking for an immersive, multi-layered engaging and stimulating university experience, apply to Andrew’s
Will Cesta (Fr 2013) Dean of Admissions
Andrew's men and women at their best are “how” thinkers. Norman Vincent Peale put it this way.
The “HOW” thinkers get problems solved effectively because they WASTE NO TIME with futile “IFS” but go right to work on the CREATIVE HOW. “ .. the things that are impossible with people are possible with God.”
Jesus added another perspective,
From the Chair & Bird
05 11 13 19
St Andrew's welcomed 100 new freshers to the College with a Welcome Lunch and leadership activities throughout the week.
Kitchen Refurbishment
After 60 years, the College's kitchen has been upgraded as part of the Harper Master Plan.
Androvation
After fantastic growth over the past two years, the third iteration of Androvation in 2019 proved a great success
Robert Harper
Robert Harper is a fourth-generation Andrewsman and was recently elevated to the Family Court of Australia in Sydney.
Welcome Week
Professional Development Program
College Life Leadership Scholarship
Taylor Scholars 2019 - The Investment Club
Thyne Reid Link Development
Kitchen Refurbishment
Androvation
University & Schools Dinner
College Community
From the Archives
Alumni Community
The St Andrew's College Alumni Society
Conferences & Events
Blue & White is published twice a year by the College Advancement and Marketing teams for the St Andrew's College community The College would like to thank all of our student photographers for their contribution to Blue & White
Front cover image taken by Matthew Duchesne of Michael Sligo performing the 'Address to Haggis' at the 2019 University & Schools Dinner.
Editorial Team
Hannah Atwell
Monique George
Photographers
Clare Armstrong Chester Burns
Minami Takahashi
Matthew Duchesne
From the Chair & Bird
"I always say to students and parents: if you have the chance to live in college, grasp it with both hands."
So said the Chancellor of the University of Sydney, Ms Belinda Hutchinson AM, on the recent occasion of the opening of two new buildings in St Paul’s College.
The Chancellor’s quote seems a splendid segue into the ongoing work that the University and the colleges have done together in cultural renewal. We were pleased to report at the end of 2018 a strong end-of-year-one performance against the expectations in implementing change in accordance with the recommendations of the Broderick review. In addressing the one or two major projects which remain to be completed in year two, we have made real progress because we ’ ve continued to rely on our trust-based, collaborative engagement with the leadership of a student body with whom we share a faith in our long-standing commitment to studentcentred responsibility Our student leaders have not shirked the hard work, and they have taken seriously the challenge and burden of legacy This burden is perhaps best described by the Maori tradition that our first responsibility is to be a good ancestor, to leave the world in a better place, to plant trees you
know you’ll never see We're immensely proud of their efforts in leading cultural change At the core of Elizabeth Broderick’s report was her assertion that cultural change takes time, and we know that to achieve this effectively, Andrew’s must address these challenges in our own distinctive way, according to our DNA. We are a community shaped by our evolving narratives, customs and heritage, representing as they do an important part of how we pass on our identity from one generation to the next. It’s that important.
One of our significant projects this year, and it has been developed hand in glove with our generous financial assistance program, is the broadening of our engagement with secondary schools around Australia, to address the ongoing challenge of diversity in this collegiate community We want to give more rural, regional and remote students, indigenous students, those students in necessitous financial circumstances, and students from a more equal blend of government and independent school backgrounds the opportunity of the St Andrew’s experience We want to continue to attract distinctive as well as diverse students to Andrew’s, and we are pleased with progress to date in reaching out to over 9,000 high schools around Australia.
Chair of Council Charlie Taylor and Principal Wayne Erickson
Advancement of academic potential is a central, enduring and distinctive feature of collegiate communities. Ours is an intentional academic community – people choose, and are chosen, to be here
In 2018, 144 of our residents, just on 48% of our student body, achieved a Distinction or High Distinction average last year This represents a 20% increase in these high achieving numbers over and above the previous academic year – an extraordinary result.
Perhaps these results, and the recording in 2018 of an across-college average of 72, are a consequence of a requirement that all who wish to remain in College must achieve and maintain a credit average – a rising tide lifts all boats – but these are clear expectations, taken seriously
In 2020 with the bringing on-stream of the Thyne Reid Link Development, the College will expand to add 85 new members, the largest single increase in our history This expansion is a reflection of our confidence in the continuing strong demand for membership of this intentional community You’ll notice that we refer to members, not merely bedrooms We’ll also add to our recently refurbished catering facility a state-of-the-art gymnasium, yoga studio, music rehearsal rooms, social hubs, flexible tutorial spaces and other world-class facilities,
all designed to reflect the reality that these places are much more than a place to sleep on campus. We don’t do bedrooms, we do College!
Whilst our focus this year has properly been on the building development, cultural renewal and outreach, our College Life Program has listened to the community, and in conjunction with our Advancement Program has established a Professional Development Program which has reached into the enduring community of alumni and friends to provide just the sort of value-adding which will enhance the preparedness of our students to land on the world with maximum impact following graduation There is much more potential in the College Life space, as can be seen in these pages, and in our vision for the future
Diverse and distinctive students – members of an enduring community, experiencing the collegiate way of living in world-class facilities, and squeezing every drop out of a world-class College Life program which
Social hubs in the Thyne Reid Link Development
Week). The survey was based on the Broderick review in 2017 and gave a very positive message of the experiences of students in 2018 and 2019. A large majority (73-85%) of freshers undertook the survey in 2018-19 and 98% of these felt a strong sense of belonging and felt supported by student leaders, their peers and College staff.
"I was genuinely surprised at how supportive and caring the new and older students were It's not that I had a negative expectation coming into college, more so a neutral one, but felt that almost everyone was actively, and not superficially, supporting all other fReshers I met during the week as well as myself."
"As someone who knew no one upon arrival, I think inherently I was always going to feel like I didn't fit in initially; especially given that there were already a few cliques and groups who knew each other from school. However, by the end of the week, I absolutely felt included and that I fitted into the college, which is a credit I think to the design of the week to facilitate new friendships among all fReshers "
10% found this challenging. One female student reported that she found it intense but that;
"It got better when I found friends The culture at college is very different to what I'm used to, so I found it quite intense. However, there is definitely a great sense of support and community."
The creation of new friends was a powerful driver of belonging and safety. College was " very different from home and a bit of a culture shock. However, once I found friends it was fine and I felt supported and more comfortable." Some students (16%) thought there was too much focus on alcohol during the week and 21% said they needed to drink to socialise and make friends at College.
"I felt uncomfortable at times because I didn’t drink but overall, a very positive experience My mentor also doesn’t drink and she was extremely helpful "
This was starkly different to the Broderick 2017 results that found 21% of freshers thought that there was too much focus on alcohol and a staggering 54% said they needed to drink to socialise and make friends at College.
Welcome Lunch with new freshers and their parents
The majority of freshers (95-99%) found that there was a high tolerance of diversity, few had experiences of rumours or exclusion, sexist remarks, homophobic slurs, needing to have sex to fit in and pressure to take drugs A small group of freshers experienced negative behaviours, while most of these were by external visitors, some freshers found other freshers, other students and students from other colleges engaged in problematic behaviours While some sought help and the vast majority found this helpful or very helpful, some didn’t seek help. One student explained that they felt it " was not serious enough to warrant seeking assistance." Our student community in collaboration with College staff are looking for ways to better understand how individuals who experienced unacceptable
freshers in the second half of the first year in 2017 reported similar responses to those in 2018 and 2019 and these were strongly positive This data suggests that St Andrew’s College culture has undergone significant change in the last 3 years
"I was slightly apprehensive upon coming here, despite all the commitments to the Broderick report recommendations etc , that the culture would remain the same as before, and that those in our community who felt like they were on the outer would feel excluded, hazing would be malicious etc. But, Jack and the leadership team I think nailed exactly what the College set out to do...I think Jack, and the leadership team, ensured that St Andrew’s and its culture is in great stead for the future, and as a fReshman, I am very glad that I chose Drew’s to call home "
St Andrew’s College Students Club, College Staff and Council remain strongly committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive community through the continued collaboration and engagement of our whole community.
Dr
Hester Wilson
Vice Principal & Director of College Life
Students arriving at College on Move In Day
Four main events have been scheduled for our Professional Development Program (PDP) pilot in 2019, each developed in conjunction with feedback gathered from student focus groups.
The newly focused themes and refreshed methodology of the PDP events are proving popular with students; both events in May were oversubscribed. The first event, ‘What I Learned & What I Do’, saw a format allowing for traditional, peer, and reverse mentoring to develop naturally through guided themes. Guests (alumni, parents and friends of College) attended pre-dinner drinks in the Senior Common Room where they networked with students before formal dinner in the Dining Hall This was followed by a ‘turbo networking’ session in the Chapel; conversations continued and connections were formed
Our new Self-Mentoring program, arising from College Life research, is also fully subscribed for Semester One The program targets issues in the current digital age Students are evaluated for their unique digital and real-world behaviour This is followed by workshops where students learn to amplify or reduce selected behaviours. Students are encouraged to be re-evaluated annually in order to
Students can also receive assistance in obtaining internships and other work The objective here is to prepare our men and women with both hard and soft skills for the workforce.
To ensure this program can continue to develop to a world-class level, we require the support of our community. Parents, alumni and friends can contribute by attending PDP events and chatting to the students in a relaxed environment or offering work experience opportunities. These are highachieving, hardworking young people; they benefit greatly from interaction with likeminded members of the Andrew’s community Indeed, last year ’ s focus groups revealed that our students place great value on forming relationships with our alumni
If you or your workplace may be able to provide suitable opportunities for our residents, please contact Dr Diane Spencer Scarr: +61 2 9565 7328 or collegelifeoffice@standrewscollege edu au
To learn more about the Professional Development Program events, please refer to the College’s website or Facebook page.
The second Professional Development Program event - HR Help!
Leadership Scholarships , in order to acknowledge and continue the outstanding results of a number of Taylor Scholars’ Projects.
Benjamin Stacy (Fr 2015) was one of the recipients awarded the scholarship in 2019 and has taken on the role of Assistant Researcher within the Professional Development Program (PDP). In this role, he is contributing literature reviews for the first PDP academic paper, facilitating inaugural PDP events (in collaboration with the 2019 Alumni Secretary, Francesca Spry), organising focus groups for PDP research and coordinating the new Self Mentoring program
Benjamin (known as Ben) completed a Bachelor of Arts (English and History) at the University of Sydney in 2017 and is currently in his final year of a Master of Teaching In 2018, Ben was awarded the Australian College of Educator’s Outstanding Graduate Award Whilst at University, he was a resident member of St Andrew’s College and in 2019 is a non-residential student.
“A resident of St Andrew’s College goes through a formative few years whilst transitioning out of secondary schooling and into tertiary study, and then rapidly out of tertiary study and into their careers. Previously, these ‘transformations’ have been left to the individual to navigate Through the findings of my Taylor Scholar project, we hope to provide scaffolding and direction to any student that wishes to be proactive in their own personal and professional development processes ”
- Benjamin Stacy, Fr 2015
Area Academic Tutor providing support and mentoring to students in need of assistance. Ben was a 2018 Taylor Scholar, and his project for the year focused on improving and expanding the role of a Student Mentor by organising seminars throughout the year and providing tips to enable each mentor to enhance their skills and help students in an optimal manner. The project was a great success and provided real value to not only Mentors, but the wider student body, and it was through this that Ben drew the attention of the College Life team as, with all Taylor Scholars, the key aim is to formulate a project that benefits the College community
You can read more about the Taylor Scholar Program and the Professional Development Program in this edition of Blue & White The College Life Leadership Scholarships were awarded with the assistance of the general scholarship fund gifts allocated by the College Council If you are interested in supporting the College’s Scholarships Program, please contact the Director of Advancement, Hannah Atwell: +61 2 9565 7303 or advancement@standrewscollege.edu.au
Taylor Scholars 2019
Established in 2015 by the St Andrew's College Chair of Council, Charlie Taylor (Fr 1982), the Taylor Scholars program supports and encourages senior students of College to continue engaging significantly and meaningfully with College life. Taylor Scholars develop and implement a special interest project that can be related to any aspect of College Life, with the aim to benefit and increase the diversity or depth of the College experience.
One such project is the Investment Club established by Thomas Dowse (Fr 2016) and Zachary Whitehead (Fr 2016). Tom and Zac both studied a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) at the University of Sydney. Together, they developed the St Andrew's College Investment Club as part of the 2019 Taylor Scholars program with the aim to educate current students in personal financial investing. They both believe acquiring practical skills should be increased alongside academic knowledge
The Club was open to any interested student and after over 50 applications, 24 members were selected based on their depth of industry research These were divided into 6 particular research teams, each managing a portfolio of Australian equity securities
Tom and Zac have showcased incredibly progressive thinking throughout the development of their project. Their initial suggestion, on how to maintain member motivation, was to allow a profit on each member's investment. However, this has progressed into serving a "higher purpose " , with profits going towards establishing a scholarship at the College. Thus, instead of personal gain, the new motive for members is to directly contribute to providing another student with the opportunity to join St Andrew’s College The Club will host fortnightly forums with alumni, parents and industry professional guest speakers These talks will be open to the wider College community
“The fund serves as an outstanding example of how St Andrew’s students have the faith of the College to learn and work professionally as adults to better their community”
- Thomas Dowse (Fr 2016) and Zachary Whitehead (Fr 2016)
If you would like to participate in the project, please contact Dr Diane Spencer-Scarr: +61 2 9565 7328 or collegelifeoffice@standrewscollege edu au
The 2019 Taylor Scholars
Thyne Reid Link Development
Officially underway at the end of 2018, the Thyne Reid Link Development is progressing well under the management of the College’s Major Works Committee and our building contractor, Buildcorp.
The first stage of the Development began in November with the internal stripping of the Thyne and Reid Buildings, in preparation for structural demolition to commence after the Christmas period. Access roads and pathways were completed and the construction team’s base was set up safely and securely As per the arborist’s report, the relevant trees were cleared and piling works were able to commence
Following on from the Christmas closure, demolition was completed on the two buildings and piling work continued Bulking out began for the excavation and a substation was fixed, fenced and powered by Ausgrid
In preparation for the start of the student semester, a scaffold staircase was installed for pedestrian access to the Reid Building, which has since been reinforced to ensure student safety. The students and staff have experienced minimal disruption to their daily routines thus far and are looking forward to using the finished facilities in 2020.
The common unforeseeable issue, wet weather, has caused some minor delays through March and April, but the build team maintain their drive to keep to schedule We have made plans at this stage to lay the Foundation Stone for the Building in an official ceremony during August
If you would like more information about the project or to support our campaign efforts to Enable Access to St Andrew’s, please contact the Director of Advancement, Hannah Atwell: +61 2 9565 7303 or advancement@standrewscollege edu au
Thyne Reid
View of the Thyne Reid Link from the Glen - Artist's
Kitchen Refurbishment
The newly refurbished St Andrew’s kitchen was officially opened by the Principal and Senior Student, Jack MacKenzie-Wood (Fr 2017) with the cutting of a blue ribbon at midday on Monday 8th April 2019. The students of St Andrew’s queued up in anticipation of enjoying the first lunch to be served from the new-look dining facilities and were not disappointed by what they experienced:
“From a student’s perspective, the new kitchen is an amazing upgrade An increase in the quality and accessibility of food has been greatly received by all residents, giving a much wider range to suit all diets and preferences As well as this, it looks to bring everyone a bit closer together as we finally can begin to use our Dining Hall to full effect again, with everyone sitting around chatting over lunch and dinner.”
- Jack MacKenzie-Wood (Fr 2017) Senior Student
The $3 5 million project, backed by the College Council and managed by the Major Works Committee, was started last November (after a year delay due to scheduling) and is the first upgrade of its scale to the College kitchen since it first opened in its current location 60 years ago. A part of the Harper Master Plan, the refurbishment is a key upgrade to the College’s existing facilities in preparation of the expansion of the student body in 2020 as a result of the addition of 85 new bedrooms in the Thyne Reid Link Development The Dining Hall is an important space in College, having always acted as the hub of students' social interaction, in addition to forming the backdrop to the more formal and special occasions such as University and Schools Dinner, Victory Dinners, Valedictory Dinners and more
“The new kitchen is a great addition to the College It looks fantastic and we were all very excited for the opening on Monday It is also great to see the kitchen staff so excited and proud and we look forward to sharing great conversations, meals and coffee in this new space. Hats off to everyone who made it happen.”
L hl B tt (F 2017)
“Our Dining Hall has always been – and will always be – an integral component of the Andrew’s experience; for 150 years, the best debates in College have been won or lost over a lamb roast or chicken schnitty. The new facilities will ensure that the conversation keeps flowing when we open our doors as a significantly bigger College in 2020 (something the old facilities could not have promised).”
- Will Cesta (Fr 2013) Dean of Admissions
The College’s Catering Manager, Freeman Lam, brought a creative approach to re-designing the new kitchen and as pictured, the servery is now a brighter, lighter space, with attractive yet functional benches and shelves displaying the wider selection of food available at breakfast, lunch and dinner The new kitchen sees a change to the design and layout of the serving and preparation areas, an expanded storage area, new cooler rooms and a new service lift to allow for easy delivery access The re-orientation of the main food bar to enable 360° self-service access will help move student queues through quickly The meal preparation area has been separated and moved out of sight from the serving area and expanded, allowing staff ample room to pre-prepare meals as required for daily mealtimes or special functions
In addition to the aesthetic changes, the majority of the catering equipment was also upgraded in order to cater for the increase in students as well as large formal events and conferencing requirements. The College has also hired a new Sous Chef and a number of other casual staff to ensure smooth service. Students have already noted the increase in the quality and type of food being served as a result.
"The new facilities have noticeably improved the quality of the food produced and has also allowed for the extension of meal times - which is a real benefit for students particularly those with busy schedules."
- Cameron McMillan (Fr 2017) Honorary Treasurer
360° self-service access of the main food bar
Staff in the meal preparation area
e a o o d ova o p o sed g ea gs: another opportunity for the budding entrepreneurs at St Andrew’s College to create and develop business ideas to solve real world problems.
The programme kicked off on Friday 15th March 2019 with an insightful look at innovation and entrepreneurship from Dr Steven Hitchcock, a lecturer at the University of Sydney in the discipline of International Business. Dr Hitchcock inspired the participants to think about the breadth and depth of ideation and introduced a number of common pitfalls
The ideation stage kicked off early on Saturday morning, with groups beginning to find their footing; a number of probing ideas and potential projects were entertained Over the course of the day we welcomed a number of knowledgeable
g a ude o e e o s ove e cou se o e weekend: Steven Hitchcock, Alex Carpenter, Lisa Fedorenko, Sam Clarke, Dean Gingell, Tony Green, and Gerard Hines. This was the largest cohort of mentors we have ever had at an Androvation event, and we are all truly grateful for their time. I can say with confidence that the mentors added an element of excitement and rigour to the programme, and all the groups strongly benefited from their expertise.
On Sunday, groups put together a presentation deck for their ‘Minimum Viable Product’ (MVP) to present to a panel of three judges: Dr Hester Wilson (Vice Principal), Dr Steven Hitchcock and Craig Wilson (Sustainability Manager at Ausgrid) After a long period of deliberating, the judges awarded the winning prize to a group comprising of Lachlan Martin (Fr 2019) Grace Papworth (Fr 2019) and
Second Row: Judges - Dr Hester Wilson, Dr Steven Hitchcock and Craig Wilson
First Row: Winners - Lachlan Martin (Fr 2019), Grace Papworth (Fr 2019) and Monty Hannaford (Fr 2019)
relationship between St Andrew s and the University. The Chancellor of Sydney University, Ms Belinda Hutchinson AM, spoke of her respect for the colleges and congratulated the students of St Andrew’s on their recent sporting triumphs in Rawson and especially in Rosebowl, all the while achieving exemplary results at the University. The tradition of the scholar-athlete remains strong indeed.
Ms Hutchinson went on to reflect on the quality of student experience in a modern university and the community spirit at St Andrew’s "When we have done our research," said the Chancellor, "it has shown that the colleges are really good at developing a sense of belonging " She went on, "the University is looking at how to replicate the sense of belonging at the colleges "
It was particularly significant that the College and University was gathered to celebrate an unprecedented year of academic success in Andrew’s. Among our twelve Honours students in 2018, two took University Medals and eleven achieved first class. Androvians also took a further 48 University Prizes and Awards, while 26 achieved High Distinction averages and 117 maintained
of University students.
The St Andrew’s College Medal, the highest academic honour for a student who completes 144 credit points with the highest average, was taken by fourth year science and engineering student, Dominic Albertson. Dominic, from Mackay in Queensland, is studying Space Engineering, Mathematics and Physics, and has won a swag of awards for academic excellence from the University This year, he spent three months in Toulouse at the French Institute of Aeronautics and Space Our warmest congratulations go to Dominic
The Caledonian idiom of bagpipes, the Haggis, and an Address to that "chieftain of the pudding race ’" (incanted in guttural tones by Michael Sligo) made the night one to remember The evening was also graced with the majestic music of the St Andrew’s Pipes and Drums, the String Ensemble and the Jazz Ensemble to which the College has become accustomed.
Alex Wright (Fr 2014) Dean of Studies
Michael Sligo performing the 'Address to Haggis'
College Events
ANZAC Day
On Monday 15th April 2019, the College gathered in the Kinross-Mackie Chapel in commemoration of ANZAC Day Chaplain Reverend Gareth Clayton opened his sermon by saying: “Those who fought did not lose their lives, they surrendered them of their own free will”. Principal Wayne Erickson, addressed the lives of William (Fr 1908) and Hugh (Fr 1911) Kirkland - gifted medical brothers from Lithgow. The musical contributions of the College Choir gave a befittingly solemn and reflective performance. The service concluded with the College community casting sprigs of rosemary before the wreath, which was placed next to honour boards in the vestibule. Lest we forget.
Semester 1 Gala Concert
The first Gala Concert of the year was held on Sunday 19th May and showcased the diverse musical talents of the College community – from upbeat musical pieces by the renowned St Andrew’s Jazz Band to modern pieces led by singers of the College’s Choir The evening also welcomed a rendition of Bach’s Sarabande from Partita No 2 by our Artist in Residence, Benjamin Adler, an exceptional violinist and graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music Thank you to the convenors, ensembles, accompanists, family and friends who came along to show their support and enjoy the array of musical talent within the College
Mother's Day Dinner
On Saturday 11th May 2019, the College welcomed nearly 400 current students and their mothers to the annual Mother's Day Dinner This year the Mother's Day Committee chose 'Dress for Success' (a charity that supports women by giving them the necessary tools they need to enter or re-enter the workforce) as the beneficiary charity The evening commenced with a concert in the Chapel including performances from the talented College Jazz Band and Chamber Ensemble After a formal dinner, a Highlander took place where mothers were able to show off their best dance moves Overall, the night was a great success and the Committee would like to thank everyone for coming.
Intercollegiate Competitions
After a winning performance by Alice Litchfield (Fr 2019) at the Solo Drama competition earlier this year, St Andrew’s is placed second to win the 2019 Palladian Cup. A high calibre competition, the Director of Music, Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith, and Cultural Secretary, Violet Williams, have ensured that our performances are memorable and noteworthy. Judith Browne (Fr 2019) placed third in the Solo Vocal competition and Caitlin O’Meara (Fr 2018) brought home silver at the Oration competition. We wish our performers all the best for the upcoming Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble competitions.
Palladian Rawson
The College is on track to secure the 2019 Rawson Cup for the ninth time in ten years The men have been victorious in all sports to date including cricket, swimming, rowing and rugby 2019 also marks the ninth year in a row that Andrew’s men have won the Rawson Rowing competition – a feat accomplished by nothing short of an intense training regime and spirited camaraderie The recent victory in rugby against historic competitor, St Paul’s College, has further invigorated the Rawson spirit and we can only hope that the Rawson Cup shall remain within the sandstone walls of St Andrew’s College
Rosebowl
We cannot be any prouder of the strength and tenacity demonstrated by Andrew’s women – both on the field and off the field - during an ambitious and competitive Rosebowl campaign Thus far, our women have been triumphant in netball, swimming and hockey Despite placing second in the Rosebowl Rowing, the women managed to beat last year ’ s record of 7:10 20 seconds, hitting an all time high of 7:09 87 An impressive victory in the final against Sancta Sophia in the Hockey competition (3-0) will ensure the Rosebowl Cup remains in St Andrew’s College for another year.
We would like to extend our warmest thanks to our alumni, parents and friends who have attended competitions throughout Sydney to support the talented men and women of St Andrew’s.
From the Archives
The
Influenza Pandemic of 1919
The First World War had barely ended when another disaster struck. An exceptionally virulent form of influenza was first widely reported in Spain in 1918 and the disease spread around the world in 1919, killing four or five times as many people as had perished because of the war. Australia was partly sheltered by distance and quarantine. Nonetheless, 40% of the population was affected and 15,000 people died, 6,000 of these in New South Wales. This was a very substantial number, though four times more had died as a result of the war
Residential institutions such as University Colleges were very vulnerable to the disease The entire University of Sydney closed for six weeks in May and June 1919, while the medical faculty, including most of its students (many of them Andrewsmen),
led the fight against the disease throughout Sydney. The disease took a grip at St Andrew's by May 1919. Fifty six of the eighty one students were affected and the Students’ Common Room, now the Reading Room, was converted into a temporary hospital ward. Nurses and a doctor were employed by College, while Royal Prince Alfred Hospital provided additional nurses, as it traditionally had for other extra-mural duties. John Stephens, son of the great editor of the Bulletin, was a fourth-year student at the time of the epidemic and took some marvellous photographs of the College under medical siege Professor Ian Jack gained access to the Stephens' photograph album some thirty years ago and copied the contents for the College Archives
Ian
Jack Senior Fellow & Archivist
Professor
Alex Wright (Fr 2014) Dean of Studies
Robert Harper (Fr 1979)
"College life is a unique experience which only a tiny percentage of the world ever gets to enjoy. Make the most of it, and help sustain it."
The Honourable Justice Robert Harper was a fourth-generation College resident – his great-grandfather was Reverend Dr Andrew Harper who was Principal from 1902-1920. Robert did not receive preferential treatment at College, on the contrary “[he] was expected to contribute like everyone else.” His long-established family connection did, however, engender a “ sense of belonging…and a focus on the historical and religious traditions in which the College was founded”.
When Robert was at College, he was extensively involved in the Rawson Rugby team and was a member of the Palladian Debating team “The sense of community was very important and provided a great support at times The ready access to friends and social events was a wonderful benefit of College life ” Additionally, Robert says the College helped him to form goals and achieve those goals; “It brought me into contact with individuals from different backgrounds which was formative and necessary to find a broader perspective ”
Robert became a Councillor of the St Andrew’s College Council in 2005 and served as its Chair from 2006-2014 During his time, Robert was involved in the College’s first expansion in four decades - the Carillon Wing Development - and also encouraged possible future developments through a Master Plan. “Serving on the Council was not only an opportunity to remain engaged with College life but to help mould its future. The enthusiasm and dedication of fellow Councillors was very inspiring, not to mention the excellent work of Wayne Erickson as Principal."
After completing a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) & Bachelor of Laws, Robert was admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW as a solicitor in 1985 and was called to the NSW Bar in 1986. In 1997, he was awarded a Doctorate by analysing "surviving legal documents, written in Ancient Greek, from Greco-Roman Egypt" Robert has extensive experience in areas of building and construction litigation and family law In January 2018, Robert joined the Sydney Federal Circuit Court as a judge, where he heard matters predominantly in the family law jurisdiction In March 2019, Robert was elevated to the Family Court of Australia, which he describes as an honour and “ very gratifying”
When Robert is not presiding over court proceedings, he enjoys walking, reading, going to theatre performances and gardening He also enjoys attending College events and spending time with his wife and family, particularly outside of Sydney He encourages current St Andrew’s residents to develop tenacity; “Persistence is one of the few things that is almost always likely to pay off, in some way. ”
If you know other alumni in our community doing something interesting, please get in contact via alumni@standrewscollege edu au
Harri
“Never be ashamed of who you are. It took me a long time to be comfortable in my own skin, but owning your differences and learning to put aside what other people think is a really powerful thing.”
Harriet grew up in Junee Reefs – a small town of less than 150 people and 60 kilometers north of Wagga Wagga During high school she boarded at Abbotsleigh in the Upper North Shore of Sydney Continuing her studies in Sydney, Harriet chose to reside at St Andrew’s College because she “wanted a uni experience that involved a sense of community, a supportive academic environment, social and sporting opportunities, all combined in a place to live.”
Whilst at St Andrew’s, Harriet was highly involved in College life as the Merchandise Secretary, the Victory Dinner Secretary and a member of the Father’s Day Committee. She was also a member of the Rosebowl Hockey team. “No one moment or part of College life stands out to me – the combination of all the different things that make up the experience is what makes it so memorable.” In 2013, Harriet completed a Bachelor of International and Global Studies (Honours) majoring in American Studies and Government and International Relations at the University of Sydney
After graduating, Harriet became the Program Coordinator at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney After four years, Harriet moved to her current workplace, the Department of Premier and Cabinet (NSW) In her role, Harriet works closely with the Deputy Secretary responsible for developing policy solutions for regional NSW During the past two years, Harriet has been promoted from Assistant Policy Officer to Policy Officer to Senior Policy Officer and now Executive Officer – a true testament to her industriousness "One of the best things about my role is getting to travel all across regional NSW to understand the issues and challenges for the people and places outside of Greater Sydney.”
In addition to her public servant role, Harriet is also the NSW Director of Out for Australia – an independent volunteer organisation that advocates for greater inclusion of LGBTIQ+ people in Australian workplaces. Furthermore, Harriet works with a Taylor Scholars project responsible for aiding the LGBTIQ+ community at St Andrew’s College.
Between work, travelling around regional NSW and volunteering for Out for Australia, Harriet enjoys playing hockey for the Bentstix – Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Hockey Club – and recently proposed to her partner, Amanda (who said yes!)
Alumni profiles are written by Monique George, Advancement Officer.
Read the extended versions of Robert and Harriet's profile on the College's website.
Parents' Cocktail Evening
On Friday 8th March 2019, St Andrew’s College welcomed more than 120 parents of current students to the annual Parents’ Cocktail Evening The event provided an opportunity for new and returning parents to meet one another and hear about the College's progress in 2019. Facilitated by the Director of Advancement Hannah Atwell, guests heard performances from Palladian contestant Thomas Hunt (Fr 2017) and the Jazz Band, and speeches from Principal Wayne Erickson, Chair of Council Charlie Taylor (Fr 1982), Senior Student Jack MacKenzie-Wood (Fr 2017), Dean of Admissions Will Cesta (Fr 2013) and current parent Natalie Best.
Regional Reunions
The Principal Wayne Erickson, Director of Advancement Hannah Atwell and Dean of Admissions Will Cesta, visited local schools and tertiary career expos to meet potential future St Andrew's residents, and hosted reunion dinners in Orange, Dubbo, Newcastle and Perth At the reunions, guests received updates on the College, which included details of the newly refurbished kitchen and the Thyne Reid Link Development, and shared their own College experiences and feedback with the College staff They will be visiting Melbourne in July and Canberra in August
Rawson Rugby Finals
The College would like to thank everyone for attending the Rawson Rugby Finals A new record was set with over 220 guests in attendance at the Alumni Society sponsored event It truly means a lot to the players to have an army of blue and white in their corner In the continuation of a new tradition, our St Andrew’s women were successful against the Women’s College winning 20-5 In the men ' s match, St Andrew's reclaimed the Rawson Rugby title for 2019, with a final score of 15-7 against St Paul's Special mention and thanks must also go to the coaching staff of Nick Ryan, Principal Wayne Erickson, George Lehmann and Tom Molloy who put in the hours of work that enabled the team to surge to victory in a torrid and intense final match.
Australia Day Honours
The College would like to congratulate the following members of the St Andrew's community who have received Australia Day Honours in 2019:
Emeritus Professor Trefor Owen MORGAN AO (Fr 1953)
For distinguished service to medicine, and to medical research in the physiological sciences, particularly in relation to hypertension.
Trefor's career has spanned across many clinical and research positions in Australia, the USA and Europe He has co-authored over 150 peer-reviewed articles and three books, and has held significant leadership positions in prominent Professional Societies
Dr Lester William BURGESS AM (Fr 1966)
For significant service to international agricultural research in the areas of plant pathology and biosecurity
Lester is a fellow of the Australasian Plant Pathology Society (APPS) and served as President during 2001-2003. Most of Lester's career was spent as an academic at the University of Sydney. To date, Lester has written over 100 scientific papers and several books, mostly on Fusarium (a major genus of soil fungi) - one of the few researchers internationally to work on such.
Dr Phillip Kelvin BROWNLIE OAM (Fr 1965)
For service to medicine as a general practitioner
In Phillip's third year as a doctor, he was Commanding Officer Brownlie - the medical officer-in-charge of the evacuation of Darwin after Cyclone Tracy in 1974 He has received awards for training the next generation of rural doctors, and served as a GP supervisor and liaison officer with the New England Area Training Service
Dr Peter Ian DAVIDSON OAM (Fr 1968)
For service to medicine as a general practitioner.
Peter is an integral part of the establishment of the Cowra Medical Associates, a found member of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (NSW) and the Central West Division of General Practice, and was awarded the Bill Hunter Award for exceptional service to the local community.
Dr
Richard
Murray TOOTH RFD OAM (Fr 1948)
For service to medicine as a an orthopaedic specialist
Richard helped pioneer arthroscopic surgery and performed the first full knee reconstruction in Australia Previously, he captained the Wallabies on two occasions when the All Blacks toured Australia Later, Richard travelled to the United Kingdom to continue his medical studies Whilst there he captained the Rosslyn Park club side, played for Middlesex and while a resident at a Belfast Hospital was selected in the invitational side the North of Ireland Wolfhounds.
Obituaries
The College has learned of the following deaths in our community Our sympathy is extended to their families
Dr Alex Dunbar Kitkin Mayes
Mr Ronald Ian Keir
Mr Jervis John Hayes
Judge David Shillington
Dr Stephen Bochner
Dr Colin Selby-Brown
Senior Student 1959
If
Dr John Stuart Taylor
Mr Kenneth Gregory Horler QC
Mr Trevor Hamilton Dunn
Mr Charles Ross Bentley
Mr David Charles Jackson
Mr Dugald Scott Mitchell
Mr Nicholas Forbes Blair
Annual Dinner & AGM
The President and Committee of the St Andrew's College Alumni Society request the pleasure of your presence at the Annual Dinner & AGM.
Date: Saturday 30th November 2019
Time: 6:00pm AGM, 6:30pm Pre-Drinks, 7:30pm Dinner
Tickets: $125 General Admission, $115 SACAS Members, $90 Young Alumni (Freshers 2000-2018)
Venue: St Andrew's College - 19 Carillon Avenue, Newtown NSW 2042
Dress: Black Tie
RSVP: Friday 22nd November 2019
https://www trybooking com/BAPSL
Reunion years for 2019 can be found on the College's website
Annual Golf Day
The St Andrew's College Alumni Society warmly invites you to the Annual Golf Day.
Date: Friday 29th November 2019
Time: 11:30am Registration & Morning Tea, 1:00pm Tee Off, 5:30-7:30pm Dinner Buffet
Tickets: $115 incl Morning Tea, Green Fee, Electric Golf Cart and Dinner Buffet
Venue: Moore Park Golf - Cnr Anzac Parade & Cleveland Street, Moore Park NSW 2021
Dress: Golf Attire
RSVP: Friday 22nd November 2019
https://www trybooking com/BAMNK
Alumni of all ages and parents are warmly invited to join us for an afternoon of golf on the greens!
Even if it's not your reunion year, the Society welcomes all alumni to attend the Annual Dinner! We're also seeking a piper, carrier and speaker to perform the Ode to Haggis. If you'd like to get involved, please get in touch.
Young Alumni Events
Young Alumni at St Andrew's College include all freshers from 2000-2018 In 2019, a Young Alumni Committee was established to better cater for the needs of this growing group Two events in 2019 will be held to address Young Alumni's professional networking and social needs
Stay tuned for more information on the following events!
Young Alumni Drinks
Date: October 2019 (TBA)
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Sydney NSW 2000
Dress: Smart casual
Are you a member of the Alumn
Industry Networking Breakfast (Business, Law, Finance & Property)
Date: August 2019 (TBA)
Time: 7:30-9:30am
Venue: Ernst & Young
200 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Dress: Business
The St Andrew’s College Alumni Society (SACA ) w p p g promote fellowship between alumni, and to strengthen the connection between alumni and the College. The Society contributes by: holding alumni reunions and events, including the Annual Golf Day and Annual Dinner awarding scholarships to students who contribute to College life and expanding the scholarship base helping the Students’ Club in relation to careers evenings, finding sporting coaches and other matters acting as a custodian of the traditions and standards of St Andrew’s College encouraging alumni to be actively involved in College life
To check if you are a member, or renew you membership, of the Alumni Society, please contact: Monique George, Advancement Officer +61 2 9565 7302 or alumni@standrewscollege edu au Your membership is used to fund scholarships and activities of the Society, such as reunions
St Andrew's Conferencing & Stays
Did you know the College caters for conferences and stays?
Within the College’s impressive sandstone facade, St Andrew’s has a variety of rooms available to suit any occasion. Located within the University of Sydney campus on the edge of Sydney’s CBD, St Andrew’s College has:
Affordable rooms to suit all groups
First class in-house catering
Hectares of picturesque grounds
Flexible conference spaces
St Andrew’s College is set within four hectares of picturesque grounds and is proudly coloured with our Scottish heritage. The traditional ambience of the College provides a unique venue for conferences and events.
With a variety of function rooms, from the grand style of the Dining Hall to the tasteful elegance of the Reading Room, St Andrew’s is able to cater for functions from 10 –250+ guests
St Andrew’s College prides itself on providing first class cuisine from our talented in-house catering team The College is able to customise menus to suit any occasion, ensuring guests will enjoy a memorable experience
Kinross Mackie-Chapel
Library
Reading Room
Catering
Below are approximate layout options for each room:
Need affordable accommodation?
St Andrew’s College offers a range of single, double and ensuite rooms throughout the summer break. A facility suitable for individual travellers, corporate conferences and various sized groups and occasions.
5km from the CBD
Walking distance to Newtown and Glebe
Public transport options and frequent taxis
Vibrant mix of pubs, cafes, restaurants and fashion
Positioned within the University of Sydney
Double Bedroom
Junior Common Room Courtyard
The St Andrew's Rawson Cricket team's victory against St Paul's