Chronicle 2018

Chronicle 2018

Communitas Celebration Day

Treading the boards Curtains: The Musical

Alumni connections

Founders and Benefactors Dinner

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 a

Contents Leadership Welcome from the Principal

1

Alumni and Friends 54 years of student leadership

College Fellows

2

Sharing career insights

24

Young alumni connections

25

24

Governance From the Chair of Council

3

Special Feature Communitas Celebration Day

Changing Student Lives for the Better Think big, Start small 28

4

Founder and Benefactors Dinner

29

College Life - Living and Learning Student leadership and reflections

6

2018 – Year in Review Pictorial timeline

30

In the Loop Stay connected

32

Farewell Valedictorians

12

Academia and Wellness

15

Mornington Peninsula to Switzerland

17

Around the Grounds Two in a row

18

Netball double header

18

AFLW recruits rural College student

19

Performing Arts and Community Support Treading the boards - Curtains: The Musical 20 Supporting the wider community

22

Acknowledgement of Country We acknowledge and pay respect to the Wurrundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Owners of the land upon which our college is situated. We pay our respect to all the Elders of Indigenous students who call St Hilda’s home. We also acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members of our community, the University of Melbourne, and the wider world.

ST HILDA’S COLLEGE The University of Melbourne 19 – 25 College Crescent Parkville, Victoria 3052 Australia Tel +61 3 9248 8400 Email: communitas@hildas.unimelb.edu.au www.hildas.unimelb.edu.au ABN: 68 426 085 488 ISSN: 1442-6935

b St Hilda’s College

Principal: Dr Brenda Holt Editor: Lyn Edwards Assisted by Isabel Knox and Olivia McGovern Photography: Finn Connolly and Mark Chew Design: Sophie Campbell Thank you to the contributors, and staff who provided support Front Cover: First year students in back quad

Leadership

Welcome

From the Principal

2018 will always mean for me my first year at St Hilda’s as Principal.

Following Barbara Green after 18 faithful years of service was a daunting task. I have been very fortunate to inherit a wonderful and committed SCR who care so deeply about the success of every student, and a welcoming and competent General Committee.

My first year in College as a staff member was 1998, 20 years ago this year. Why have I stayed in Colleges for so long? Frankly, there is no other type of work that I can imagine providing as much purpose and meaning to my life. Year after year, it has been such a pleasure to work with students, watch them take on new responsibilities and challenges and thrive as adults.

One of my favourite tasks this year was first year interviews. Even though each first year I met with had only been in the College a few weeks, hearing their delight about their already strong feelings of belonging to this community was a pleasure. Each of them felt a bit more settled as an adult away from home, a lot more confident about making a life in Melbourne, and felt that they had grown significantly already. I never get tired of that story, year after year.

Another favourite regular event was Sweet Sundays, where my husband, Simon, skilfully makes desserts for groups of 20-30 students to join with us at our house and eat. I so enjoyed the conversations and laughter that can only happen in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

2018 has been an amazing year for St Hilda’s College. Dominant in most of the women’s sports and strong in the men’s, we have spooned in quite a number of successful teams. The College production, Curtains: The Musical was an outstanding success.

This is the first year that all of the College were invited to the Academic Awards Dinner and could collectively congratulate those who achieved high marks.

also led our marketing strategy which included a new website, branding and publicity collateral, which sets us up well for our future.

• A strong shift in the College’s student culture with a greater emphasis on academic success, mitigating and minimising risks around alcohol, and a full revision of Orientation (Welcome) Week. I am so proud of our student leaders who have led these changes with Sergio and me.

We have had four academic dinners, including the inaugural Agriculture Dinner. We have invited young • Ensuring the sustainability of the alumni back to the dinners to hear the College. I am so deeply grateful for speakers, network and provide insight Rob’s work managing the multiple about the job market to our current build of the summer (restoration of students. The students’ overall GPA is EFG/renovation of H block/Dining sitting around Hall extension).

70%, which we Rob’s work with the There is no other type of will continue to architects, builders, work that I can imagine improve over stakeholders and providing as much purpose the years. current community

and meaning to my life.

I am very proud of all that was accomplished in that first 12 months, but I note four highlights: • Great advances in marketing, admissions and friend-raising: Lyn’s work over 2018 has been outstanding, doubling the bottom line for philanthropy while at the same time improving our total number of donors by 75%. Lyn

is impeccable.

2018 will always be a very special year for me, as my first year in this vibrant, living community. Thank you, dear St Hilda’s community, for ensuring that I understand Communitas from my own lived experience!

Dr Brenda Holt Principal

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 1

Leadership

College Fellows Thank you to Professor Emeritus Lorraine Dennerstein AO for 25 years of service to the College as a Fellow in 2018.

Professor Dennerstein is a distinguished medical practitioner and specialist psychiatrist. She graduated from the University of Melbourne in 1970 with the Exhibitions in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and an honour in surgery. She was subsequently awarded in 1979 a PhD in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University.

She qualified as a psychiatrist in 1980 obtaining the Diploma in Psychological Medicine of the University of Melbourne in 1981, membership of the Royal Australian and New Zealand

College of Psychiatrists in 1981 and elected a Fellow of the same in 1983.

In 2012 she was awarded by the University of Melbourne a Doctorate of Medical Science honoris causa in recognition of her contribution to the field of women’s health providing specialist services for over three decades. She has authored or edited a significant number of books, articles in refereed journals, abstracts, nonrefereed papers, chapters in multiauthored books and conference proceedings, and reports.

College Fellow, Professor Ruth Williams currently resides in the USA and came back to College mid-year to undertake work at the University. During her stay a dinner was held, and we welcomed distinguished Fellows, Professor Emeritus David Beswick, Professor David Copolov AO, Professor Emeritus Lorraine Dennerstein AO, The Hon Justice James Judd QC and Dr Heather Schnagl AM.

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Lorraine Dennerstein

We are indeed privileged to have Professor Dennerstein as a St Hilda’s College Fellow. She will be stepping down from her role as Principal Fellow at the end of 2018 but will continue as a Fellow into the future.

Dr Sergio Fabris, Lachlan McIntosh, Dr Ruth Williams and Dr Brenda Holt

governance

From the Chair I want to thank Dr Brenda Holt for her seamless transition into the role of Principal this year.

Brenda came to St Hilda’s with extensive knowledge of the operation of University of Melbourne colleges.

She brings to the role dedication, keenness, insight and significant forward-planning. In particular, Brenda has focussed this year on some of the major issues facing St Hilda’s, and colleges generally. These include, prevention of sexual assault and harassment, strategic planning and the challenges posed by accommodation alternatives.

St Hilda’s takes sexual assault and sexual harassment very seriously. There has been significant media interest in these issues during the year. All of our students receive training in relation to avoidance of sexual harassment and issues relating to consent. The Code of Conduct has been revised. We will continue to focus on avoiding incidents of this kind and educating our students and staff in avoiding and dealing with such issues. I want to thank the VicePrincipal, Sergio Fabris, for the work he has done in this regard.

The College has undertaken significant building works during the year and more is in progress. The works include the Dining Hall extension project, refurbishment of EF&G Block and the conversation of the top floor of H Block into student accommodation.

Significant works have already been completed. I also want to thank the Business Manager, Rob Lancaster, for the work he has done in relation to this and the business operations of the College generally.

Dr Sergio Fabris, Dr Brenda Holt and David Gilbertson QC

The building works form part of the St Hilda’s is keen to expand its College’s strategic planning. Such Development funds, in particular funds planning is vital for the future of the for student scholarships. The cost College. What sort of College does of accommodation in college is not St Hilda’s see insignificant. Many itself in 10 or of our families The College has undertaken 20 years’ time? feel significant Does the College pressure in significant building works need to expand meeting the cost. during the year and more is significantly? How Our Director of in progress. will it deal with Development, the challenges Lyn Edwards, has posed by accommodation alternatives? made significant advances in improving Where will its students come from? our Development resources during the What mix between undergraduate year. I thank her for the work she has done. and graduate students is optimal?

St Hilda’s, like other University of Melbourne Colleges, faces challenges from alternatives to college accommodation. These include accommodation provided by the University, such as the quaintly-named “Little Hall” which will house over 600 students, and accommodation provided by commercial operators.

Faced with these challenges, it is important for St Hilda’s to differentiate itself from these alternatives. We are working on making the differences apparent.

These and other questions will be considered throughout 2019. Some of them may not have straightforward answers. I look forward to the Council and staff endeavouring to grapple with them in the coming year.

I wish all of the St Hilda’s community the best for 2019.

David Gilbertson QC Chair, St Hilda’s College Council

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communitas

Communitas

Celebration Day

Thursday 12 April was a special day of celebration for our community. On this day in 1964, the College officially opened, and it was therefore fitting to install our sixth College Principal, Dr Brenda Holt.

The celebrations commenced with an installation cake for the students, tutors and staff. Kayla Singleton and Will Owen represented the students and cut the cake with Brenda in the dining hall.

A High Tea for founding students followed, with a plaque unveiled in their honour. Archive materials were on display and there was lively chatter as our very first students reminisced over photographs and told stories.

Guests moved to the front quad for the naming ceremony of the garden to the Communitas garden. This community space will honour founding students, and all St Hilda’s students who have joined our community since 1964.

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communitas

Early in the evening, the Installation Service was held as invited guests, Council members, staff, tutors and student leaders filled the College Auditorium for this milestone event led by Rev Sharon Hollis, Moderator Uniting Church and VCA President Elect. Graduate student Keryn Gane provided the Acknowledgement of Country and music items were performed by barrister and resident tutor, Tim Greenway, and music students Dominic Nguyen and Jamie Pye. At the conclusion of the service, guests moved to the Sugden Dining Hall for the Installation Dinner.

David Gilbertson provided a special

acknowledgement to the Founding Council in particular the formidable Lady Paton, the inaugural Chair.

A Founding Council plaque was unveiled by David Gilbertson and Frank Paton, the son of George and Alice Paton. It was a fitting part of the celebration as we reflected on the commitment and boldness of our founders to establish St Hilda’s College all those years ago.

Dr Holt provided an address and spoke from the heart about her personal journey as a full scholarship student living in Texas, and how that changed her life. Upon conclusion, it was clear to all present that her

commitment as an educator and leader is to help young people learn, grow, and be all they can be.

With the formalities over, GC Leaders Adrian Oats and Bec Johns provided Brenda with a surprise gift of College merchandise on behalf of the student community. Assurance was given that these items would be useful when visiting students at intercollegiate sport throughout the year!

There were many memorable moments during this milestone day. Thank you to our wonderful College community past and present, for helping make the Communitas celebrations one to remember.

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 5

college life

Student Leadership

Reflections From Adrian Oats, President and Bec Johns, Vice President The year came and went in a flash and then it was over!

2018 was one of the biggest and busiest years for both St Hilda’s College as well as the General Committee. With the announcement of the retirement of Barbara Green in 2017, we had no idea what the College atmosphere would be like in 2018 but were excited for the challenge regardless. We started the year with 117 new first years who were given a very warm welcome during O-Week. It was a busy and restless week as new students were integrated into College life and created bonds that would last them a lifetime.

The annual calendar was jam packed.

Semester 1 included a variety of Turns, First Year Dance Off, River Cruise, Camo Vs High Visibility (you tried directors), Hilda’s Fest, Social Tour and Music Night that kept us entertained.

We also celebrated many sporting premierships, attended the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at University or in the CBD, and participated in Get Your Life in Order Week (GYLIO).

During semester 2 we had great fun with Christmas in July, Hilda’s Ball, Directors event (much better), Hilda’s Day, Gala Night, College Play, Variety Night, VD Day and Sports Dinner that exceeded all expectations.

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The organisation of these events takes a considerable amount of time and commitment. Take a bow GC, Conveners and Committees, we appreciated all your efforts, thank you.

From a stranger at the start of the year to a close friend at the end, Brenda has provided us with endless support.

forward to seeing all the great things that she achieves in her role.

Embarking in our role as GC President and Vice President, we would never have believed the breadth and depth of experiences, challenges, highlights and skills that this year would provide.

We have shared amazing highs, heartbreaking lows and everything in between. The year has been a tough one and we were able to get through it all with the support around us. We are so grateful to have shared in this journey with each and every one of you. Best wishes for whatever lies ahead.

From a stranger at the start of the year to a close friend at the end, Brenda has provided us with endless support.

A huge thank you to Brenda, we are so grateful. Her efforts, and those of the staff behind the scenes can often go unnoticed by the student body and it is a privilege for us to work closely with you all.

It wasn’t always easy with some events and aspects being challenged, however Brenda shared our love for the College and respected our decisions even when she didn’t agree. We look

Much love from your 2018 Pres and VP

college life

First Year at College Sophie Liang and Will Bonney, first year Representatives At the beginning of 2018, our first year cohort was warmly welcomed into the St Hilda’s community. O-Week was an exciting experience allowing us to explore Melbourne, participate in many fun activities and form amazing connections with one another.

Being the first year student representatives was incredible. We assisted with running events including Christmas in July. The night was joyous and successful, exemplifying the Christmas spirit. Santa and his elves made a special appearance to hand out gifts to everyone.

We also represented the first years at GC meetings and maintained strong first and second year student relationships.

instructional video on how to recycle.

This video was distributed to the student cohort, with the aim to create a better environment for our future.

Being a leader was challenging at times, At the beginning of the year, we were all however with so much guidance, we nervous about moving to a new place.

However, the felt very well warm environment supported by our Being a leader was created by community. challenging at times, however Brenda provided The leadership a wonderful start. with so much guidance, we portfolio also Although it was felt very well supported by included being Brenda’s first Environmental our community. year at St Hilda’s, Committee her impressive conveners. We leadership ensured an amazing 2018! successfully stopped the use of plastic cups in the kitchen and created an

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 7

college life

Second Year Leadership Reflections from Francesca and Ashwynn

Sunday, a great start to the sales that followed throughout the year.

Unlike previous representatives, we were both new to GC leader positions and started our roles with enthusiasm and trepidation.

We introduced the highly fashionable (and warm), puffer vest. A tremendous success, rivalling the designs of Tom Ford and Stella McCartney. Keep an eye out for this trendy fashion item when walking around Princess Park or College Crescent.

Our nerves soon settled as we enjoyed the challenges and embraced the learning opportunities this leadership opportunity provided.

As second year leaders we were responsible for the merchandise and sold the first piece on Welcome

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Other key responsibilities included student club sponsorships and events. We successfully negotiated a sponsorship agreement and organised the acclaimed second year Cocktail

We introduced the highly fashionable (and warm), puffer vest. event, which was a lot of fun and was thoroughly enjoyed by our peers.

Finally, we developed a wonderful relationship with the first year reps Sophia Liang and Will Bonney. Both students were elected as the second year reps for 2019 and we wish them every success. 

college life

Parents’ drinks May and October 2018

Thank you to the parents and supporters for the sacrifice you often make to help your son / daughter. We appreciate you!

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 9

college life

2018

St Hilda’s College

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college life St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 11

college life

Farewell Valedictorians

Sixteen amazing students have called St Hilda’s home for the past three years. Our community has been so much richer with you a part of it and we value your contribution. Wherever the next stage in your journey may lead, there is always a warm Communitas welcome for you at the College. Thank you for choosing St Hilda’s and welcome to the alumni community!

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college life

Graduate Life Reflections from Samantha Our Middle Common Room (MCR) members were extremely diverse, studying a variety of disciplines. We cherished the return of many old faces and welcomed new ones.

With only 10 graduate students, we formed an inevitable tightknit bond.

From weekly screenings (and commentary) of The Bachelor, to water pistol fights at formal dinners, there was

never a dull moment. Many members were involved in College sports or performed and played music in the Play. Members were also tutors for undergraduate subjects and mentors for students interested in postgraduate studies.

The MCR maintains a wonderful relationship with the SCR. We participated in many joint events With only 10 graduate such as the Cocktail Party and students, we formed an inevitable tightknit bond. the MCR/SCR vs JCR soccer game.

The grads and tutors came away the proud winners!

The MCR also hosted the annual intercollegiate Halloween Party for postgraduate students. We had overwhelming support from other colleges and saw some sensational costumes. Thank you all.

Farewell to graduating members Paris Day, Cameron McNeil and Samantha Chin You. To the returning MCR, we wish you all the best for 2019 and the new MCR Executive Committee led

by Sreya Lodh. There is no doubt the MCR are in for another great year!

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college life

This program aims to encourage, support and understand students in a non-judgemental environment.

Pastoral Care Reflections from Molly, Pastoral Care Coordinator

The Pastoral Care team is an integral part of the College.

Each week throughout the semester, we meet and discuss how to enhance wellbeing for students and life at College.

The Pastoral Care Program aims to encourage, support and understand students in a non-judgemental environment. Maintaining supportive networks and following up on student progress is vital to wellbeing improvement. Students reach out to the Pastoral Care team and seek help to cope with a range of circumstances including family life and relationships, to all things study related.

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The Pastoral Care team were well supported, and we acknowledge the work of Adrian Oats, Bec Johns and Adam Patterson, along with Caitlin Smith and Isabella Simmonds.

Mental Health First Aid Training is offered to all students at College throughout the year, with most students utilising this opportunity.

This training increases mental health self-awareness, leading to proactive interventions and better outcomes.

The Pastoral Care Team truly support the College community, exemplifying the St Hilda’s moto Communitas.

college life

Academia and Wellness 2018 has been another great year with students performing exceptionally well, and achieving outstanding academic results.

The College continues to provide a premier tutorial program to support students across all of their courses.

This academic support program is embraced and valued by the students who develop close working relationships with the College tutors.

Many of our tutors are past students which is an added bonus.

A major technology project was undertaken this year to deliver a new student portal with significant enhancements and functionality to the current platform. These include online bookings for maintenance requests, IT support and academic and wellness appointments with senior staff. The portal will also be the central platform for two-way College to student communication and convey information relating to student events and activities. We look forward to showcasing the portal to

the student community at the start of the academic year in 2019.

The College library has successfully provided students with necessary resources during the year, supported by the College Librarian. The Book Club has been popular with an increase in student participation. A collection of books has also been successfully installed in both the MCR and the SCR. The College also provided specialist counselling, career counselling services and Mental Health First Aid training.

The third year and graduate students participated in the College Mentor Program that provides one-on-one advice, support and insights, often leading to career opportunities. We are grateful to the past students who have given their time to mentor and support our students at this pivotal stage of their journey.

14 residential tutors

50 non-residential tutors

130 tutorials per week

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college life

Senior Common Room Reflections from Mikaela

As a group of fourteen residential tutors, our experience and expertise vary greatly, but the SCR community provides the grounds for great friendship and camaraderie.

The year began with a weekend away to Lord Somers camp during O-Week to bond and connect with tutors, as well as the first year students. Through beach games, meeting our mentor groups, judging the annual student fashion parade, and a cheeky wine at some of Mornington Peninsula’s finest wineries, our small group of tutors formed a close community.

We were delighted to welcome a number of new tutors this year, three of which are Hilda’s alumni. Amongst the fresh faces, a group of old-hats celebrated great milestones, notching five years or more of service to the College. An honourable mention to our law tutor/piano-player extraordinaire, Tim Greenway who completed his tenth year as a College residential tutor. Well done Tim! The SCR camaraderie flourished thanks to the many events held during the year. The Cocktail Night saw our social convenors Mitch Anderson and Lachlan McIntosh invent some delicious drinks. The Progressive Dinner showcased culinary talents and we were privileged to experience Dr Simon Holt’s wonderful cooking at the Principal’s Residence.

Lachlan McIntosh, the Pam Todd Scholarship recipient for 2018, presented his groundbreaking

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further study, or to undertake career opportunities elsewhere. Dr Ryan Hoult, an esteemed member of the SCR left us for an amazing opportunity in Switzerland. We also warmly wish As always we are incredibly proud to James Kavourakis and Mitch Anderson hear of the successes of our students along with Skye Shields and Carol Que in their studies. every success for the We look forward future. You will The SCR camaraderie to furthering the all be missed. flourished thanks to the tutorial program Congratulations to the in 2019, and many events held during new SCR Executive led providing both the year.

by President Luke Foley. academic and pastoral support Finally, we greatly acknowledge the to the students. commitment of Brenda and Sergio to the SCR. We are very grateful for your We sadly farewell five of our residential support, respect and trust in us all. tutors who are moving on to pursue PhD research, using mathematics to understand the DNA of cancer cells.

Stay tuned to hear more about this remarkable research in the years ahead.

college life

Mornington Peninsula to Switzerland Dr Ryan Hoult planned to stay at St Hilda’s College as a resident tutor for one year. He stayed for seven, approximately a quarter of his life!

This is Ryan’s story.

After finishing my Master of Engineering, in 2013 I enrolled into PhD research in the fields of Earthquake and Structural Engineering. It has been quite a journey, lots of highs and lots of lows, but I certainly could not have gotten through it without the support I received from St Hilda’s College. I was fortunate to be the recipient of the Pam Todd Scholarship twice, which helped support some experimental research outside of my PhD. I was also fortunate to receive a Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, which will fund a one-year postdoctoral research programme working at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in the Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics laboratory.

A former Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC PhD student, Ryan is working as a postdoctoral researcher, after submitting his thesis on concrete structures in relation to rare and very rare earthquakes. Ryan sent his research results to Professor Katrin Beyer from the Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics Laboratory, resulting in him becoming the front man for the Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics Group and moved to Switzerland!

Seventeen researchers from the Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics Group, where they are working in collaboration with South American universities to mitigate earthquake risk.

“Their buildings codes are lacking quite surprisingly, considering they get a lot of earthquakes,” Ryan says.

across from Lake Geneva. “I wish I paid more attention during French class in high school to be honest,” said Ryan.

Adjusting to the language barrier and being away from his family will be the hardest parts of living abroad, however he is looking forward to the challenge.

Many South American high-rise buildings are built on small surface areas. Without appropriate reinforcement detailing, these I leave St Hilda’s College with a buildings can perform poorly during bittersweet feeling; sweet in the sense an unexpected earthquake, potentially that I am moving out of my comfort leading to collapse. Australia has zone and into similarly structured something new buildings to South Ryan is excited to and exciting, America, where there conduct experimental but bitter in the has been no testing research at the institute sense that some conducted on their of my happiest, structure. Ryan says which situated in favourite “The Australian Lausanne, just across moments concrete structures from Lake Geneva. occurred during code, AS3600, has my time spent as allowed designers to a member of the College community. detail concrete walls with a relatively low amount of reinforcement. This I know that St Hilda’s is in good hands is designed for a low earthquake with Brenda leading the way, and I return period, which has resulted in look forward to the day that I return the reinforced concrete buildings of to visit and see just how the College Australia being vulnerable to a rare has prospered. earthquake event.”

Ryan is excited to conduct experimental research at the Institute which situated in Lausanne, just

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 17

around the grounds

Around the Grounds 2018 was another cracker year for Hilda’s sport, led by sports reps Rene Caris and Will Grieg.

There were nail-biting finals, coming a close second, and as Ryan Hoult lamented upon leaving this year, coming up short again in men’s football seven years in a row. Whatever the result, a win, loss or a draw, the amazing Communitas spirit shone through and everyone came away a winner.

Hilda’s did however celebrate some great team achievements with the winning trophy awarded for Netball 1sts, Netball 2nds, Badminton, Girls Softball and Girls Hockey. Great work all!

Two in a Row

Netball – A Double Header

For the second year running, St Hilda’s College was awarded the Tickner Cup after achieving the highest aggregate score of all the residential Colleges. What a fantastic achievement.

Our netball teams have always been a powerhouse, competitive and final bound. This year was sensational with the 1sts and 2nds winning a double header. The sideline was jam packed with supporters, and the opposition were tough, but the Hilda’s teams were tenacious and came away with both trophies. A superb achievement and another College milestone.

College mascot Diego, was also out to make his mark on the night with handstands and cartwheels of sorts.

Well done Rory!

The Cup is a highly sought after prestigious sports award. Bringing home two in a row is a significant milestone! Well done to all our students, coaches and supporters.

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around the grounds

AFLW recruits College rural student Second year student, Rene Caris has been selected for Geelong in the AFLW this year and will play her first game in 2019. Congratulations!

Rene has had a stellar sporting career to date and won a long list of awards, cups and trophies. The Princes Highway will be very familiar to Rene over the footy season as she travels the 150km round trip from Parkville to Geelong three times a week for training, and home games until the end of March.

Rene came to St Hilda’s in 2017 from Quantong in regional Victoria where farm life is the norm. Therefore, being

on the other end of a shovel working for ‘Tyso’ in the paid student work scheme has been second nature!

Rene’s commitment to the College community earned her the Coins for Communitas scholarship mid-year.

She was also awarded the inaugural Sports Scholarship.

Grateful thanks to Rod Lyle, a longterm supporter of the College for providing the funds to establish a new sport scholarship, to be awarded annually for the next five years.

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 19

performing arts

Treading the Boards

Curtains: The Musical

Play convenors Amy Liu, Ben Lyons, Ian Christy, and Erin Stephen chose Curtains: The Musical for the 2018 production. Curtains is a parody of 1950s ‘whodunnit’ theatre mysteries, where a lone detective, Lieutenant Frank Cioffi, investigates a series of murders that take place behind the scenes of a fictional 1950s cowboy musical.

Play Directors and past students Dem McCarthy and Michaela Jones had a challenge on their hands when casting with so much talent and enthusiasm coming from the auditions.

The chorus members brought strength and energy to the show including the Thataway and Show People numbers as highlights. Monica Gregg and Tescha Nicholls were exemplary choreographers and went the extra mile to ensure the dance routines and performers were the best they could be.

After many months in the making, everyone involved provided

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unwavering support at rehearsals and as fundraisers. A flash mob at High Table one night promoted the show and built excitement.

The overall success would not have been achieved without the support and talent of the band and backstage.

Alex Gorbatov and Rose Kirkham were the Conductor and Music Director respectively and did a fantastic job.

The cast and crew celebrated their hard work with an unforgettable after-party following the final performance. We acknowledge the dedication and commitment from all. There is a special group of people, known as show people!

performing arts St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 21

community

Supporting the Wider Community The Communitas Committee led by Lucy Fraenkel and Tescha Nicholls, coordinated a variety of events throughout the year to support charitable causes.

Activities commenced with anonymous Easter gift giving (a College tradition) before the mid-semester break. Angels and Mortals Week was next with students being assigned as an angel or a mortal. The angels anonymously performed three kind gestures during the week to embody the Communitas spirit. First year students Lara Sidekli and Tessa McNaulty organised the blood donation initiative, and statistics show that the blood donated

by Hilda’s students helped save 117 lives! Afternoon tea was held during SWOTVAC to keep spirits high in the

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lead-up to exams, with $150 raised for Taboo, a charity that empowers women.

education. What a great cause!

Grateful thanks to former GC President, Alex Dyson, who despite having his The main event was Gala Night that arm in sling, gave his time to be the raised over $11,000 for State Schools’ auctioneer extraordinaire again this year.

Relief. CEO, Sue Karzis, thanked the A huge thank you to the College and student committee for their support wider community and spoke about for your support the work of the The charity aims to provide providing items charity that aims to Victorian children with the to auction and provide Victorian basic necessities required for attending children with the on the night. basic necessities to fully participate in their Communitas! required to fully education. participate in their

community

St Hilda’s Ball

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alumni and friends

Alumni and Friends It is always a pleasure to welcome our past students back to College, hear of their news and provide an update to them about what is happening at College. 2018 was extra special as we introduced our new Principal.

Celebrating 54 years of Student Leadership This year, all GC Presidents and Vice Presidents were invited to attend the College Leaders Dinner held to acknowledge and thank the current leaders. We were delighted to have every decade represented at the dinner from the first President in 1964 Christine Penfold (nee Campbell) to the current President Adrian Oats. There was a strong community presence at the event with many wonderful tales and stories told from yesteryear.

John Young, 1979 President, had not been back to College for 30 years and commented:

“I enjoyed the evening very much, catching up with old friends, meeting other members of the College community and learning more about the current life of the College.”

College Leaders Dinner

Sharing Career Insights Four Faculty Dinners were held throughout the year for students to hear firsthand from our alumni guest speakers and industry leaders, about useful tips, insights and experiences to help them as they navigate the transition from University to career placements.

Guest speakers included Andrew Miller, Tim Chenoweth and Shari Emin (Commerce), Camilla Humphries (Agriculture), Richard Dent, Emily Wrigglesworth and Raja Noureddine (Arts) and Matthew Liston (Design).

Thank you all.

Agriculture Dinner

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alumni and friends

Young Alumni Connections Over recent years, past students Clare Parker, Evie Loveband and Declan Butorac have worked tirelessly to establish relationships and reconnect with alumni who left College during the past decade. This engagement, supported by the College, included a popular annual Young Alumni event.

Due to a variety of commitments, Clare, Evie and Declan handed over the reins to Tim Chenoweth and Freddie Emary to carry on their work this year. We thank them all for their time and commitment to the College and our community.

In October, young alumni attended the Enchanted Forest Cocktail Party. The JCR was themed with trees, fairy lights and candles by ‘Tyso’, who doubled up as a guide on the night, taking behind the scenes tours around the College. Many a laugh was had as they reminisced and shared stories of times gone by.

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 25

alumni and friends

Communitas Garden opened Founding students pose under the newly installed plaque following the garden dedication.

Founding Students High Tea Archival records from early years ignited much laughter and story telling.

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A sumptuous high tea was enjoyed by all.

behind the scenes

Behind the scenes

20 Years of Service Congratulations and thank you to Accounts Manager, Carol Briggs for 20 years valued service to the College this year.

Did you know?

175,000 meals

Over were prepared by Thomas Balmer and the College catering team in 2018.

We have welcomed over

1,250 new students over the past 10 years (Tyso has a story for them all)

16 current staff (FT/PT) have amassed a total of

105 years service to

the College.

1,145 students have joined the alumni community since 2008 (Tyso knows them all too)

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 27

changing lives

Changing student lives for the better Think Big, Start Small Becky, a first year student from rural Victoria shared her story and was the face of the annual appeal this year.

Thanks to the support of a past student, Becky’s dream of studying Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne and living at St Hilda’s College was realised. What a blessing this was, changing her life for the better.

Becky is a remarkable young woman and hopes to find a cure for malaria one day, but it’s a long shot. With the support of her family and friends, Becky holds on to her dream to give back and make a difference in the world. In 2017 she spent time in Rwanda and is already planning her next trip to Cambodia to help those in need.

The annual appeal exceeded our expectations. Thank you to all our supporters for giving so generously.

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“Thank you to all our supporters for your gifts large and small.”

changing lives

Milestones This year we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Helen and Val Brown Bursary. This bursary was established to commemorate the contribution of Helen McKenzie Brown who was a foundation member of the College Council and her husband Val Brown, and their shared interest in education for all.

A reunion for the bursary recipients and trustees is planned in the near future.

The Miller family have played a significant role in the College community since before St Hilda’s College came to fruition. Noel Miller was the Treasurer of the Founding Council. Over the past 10 years, The Miller Foundation have supported over 150 students with scholarships and financial assistance. Thank you to Andrew and Jean Miller and the trustees of the Foundation from all our College community for your ongoing support.

Founders and Benefactors Dinner The inaugural annual Founders and Benefactor’s Dinner was held in November, a fitting finale to a memorable year. College community guests including descendants of the Founding Council, enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by Thomas and the catering team. Entertainment was provided by first year students Eammon Shorter, Alex Gorbatov and Bailey Montgomerie. Principal, Dr Brenda Holt spoke about the impact of giving and how the gifts received provide opportunities to students that truly changes lives. Past student, Amar Patel concluded the evening paying tribute to the Miller family for their support to the College that spans over 50 years.

Amar Patel and Luke Geoghegan

New Student Scholarships We were delighted to introduce a number of new scholarships in 2018 thanks to the support of our amazing community. The scholarships include Coins for Communitas, Passing the Baton, Science, Sport, and the Alice Paton Award.

We look forward to sharing the recipient’s stories in the near future.

Thank you to all our supporters for your gifts large and small. Your support helps make a difference to fund scholarships, awards for outstanding achievement and general financial assistance. On behalf of all students past, present and future, thank you.

co i n s for

Communitas small change matters

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 29

year in review

2018 year in review

Installation Dinner

Residential Tutors

January

February

March

April

May

June

Dr Brenda Holt commences

Welcome Sunday

Academic Awards Service

Installation Service and Dinner

Intercollegiate Regatta

Commencement Dinner

Communitas Garden opened

Commerce Faculty Dinner

Perth, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Regional Visits

Tutorials commence

Founding Students High Tea

Music Night

Orientation Week (O-Week) Somers Camp (First Years) Carol Briggs 20 years at College

Parents’ Drinks

Somers Camp Music Night

Intercollegiate Regatta

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year in review Sports Dinner

Badminton Finals

Christmas in July

July

August

September

October

November

NAAUC Conference

Leaders’ Dinner

Variety Night

Christmas in July

Arts Faculty Dinner

Founders and Benefactors Dinner

Fellows Dinner

Communitas Gala Dinner

Agriculture Faculty Dinner

Valedictorian Parents Lunch Valedictory Dinner

Ballarat event

Tickner Cup awarded

Parents’ Drinks

Curtains the Musical

Hilda’s Day

Design Faculty Dinner

Badminton Grand Champions

Young Alumni Cocktail Party

EFG Block refurbishment commences

New Dining Hall Pergola completed New students commence

Auckland and Geelong events

New GC elected

Netball Premiership 1sts and 2nds

Warrnambool event Songs of Home and Refuge Concert GC Appreciation Dinner

Girls Soccer and Girls Hockey Premierships

Sports Dinner

College Ball

Dining Hall extension commences H Block fourth floor refurbishment commences Rene Caris selected for Geelong (AFLW) New website went live

Variety Night Gala Dinner Netball Finals

St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018 31

In the Loop Stay connected with the College and each other and hear about what’s happening.

Do you have: • News to share • Need information • Would like to update your contact details • Have comments or feedback • Would like to mentor a student • Interested in speaking at an event • Make a gift large or small • Have a great idea ……. we would love to hear from you!

https://www.facebook.com/sthildascollege/ @sthildasunimelb https://twitter.com/StHildasCollege St Hilda’s College, University of Melbourne

19 – 25 College Crescent Parkville, Victoria 3052 Australia Tel +61 3 9248 8400 Email: communitas@hildas.unimelb.edu.au www.hildas.unimelb.edu.au 32 St Hilda’s College Chronicle 2018