The Crest - Issue 6

THE ST MICHAEL'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINE

ISSUE 6 2021

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Contents WELCOME

29 Letters to Benetas Aged Care

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30 National Science Week

A moment with Mrs Terrie Jones

30 Mad About Science

STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SCHOOL

31 The Lighthouse

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Junior School: reflecting on 2021

31 Asynchronous afternoons

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100 Days to Success: motivating our Year 12 students

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Class of 2021: Quindecennial students

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A special boost for Year 12 students

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Farewelling the Class of 2021

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Artistic works on display at the Virtual 12 Exhibition

32 Public Speaking success 32 Making the right moves 33 Kobe’s composition praised 33 Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program 33 Sport successes

10 St Michael’s launches first Reconciliation Action Plan

34 Fun during the holidays

11 A new era of Performing Arts – St George’s Church redevelopment

35 Year 4 and 5 Exodus 36 Developing deeper connections at Year 8 Exodus

12 Teaching, Learning and Caring

38 Col Pearse wins Bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games

14 Yuma wins fifth consecutive Apple Student Challenge 17 Merry Month of May 18 Community Action Day Term 4 19 Remembrance Day 2021 20 National Simultaneous Storytime 21 Book Week 22 Junior School Athletics Carnival 23 2021 ACS Athletics Carnival results 24 Double victory at the Geoffrey Ryan Cup 25 Netball Night Match 25 Dimitri trains with tennis greats 26 Online Performing Arts Evening 27 2021 Song Writing Competition 28 Celebrating National eSmart Week 29 R U OK Day

40 Old Michaelian Olympians 43 Boarding school in the fifties

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS 44 Ongoing connections with the Old Michaelian community 45 Breaking Up wins at Sydney Web Fest 46 Beyond the School Gates 48 Elena Galiabovitch (OM 2007) honoured at Tokyo Olympics 49 Reunions 50 The PCA – Fostering connections 52 Celebrating our Volunteers 54 Vale 56 Building our community

St Michael’s acknowledges the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the School stands. We pay respect to their ancestors, elders and emerging leaders, and are committed to reconciliation.

In our ongoing quest to minimise the School’s environmental impact, hard copies of The Crest are printed on 99% FSC recycled paper.

A moment with Mrs Terrie Jones At the recent Valedictory Service, the Harrison Choir performed a beautiful choral rendition of the song, ‘Be A Light’. The lyrics resonate at this time, but have relevance for all times. Thomas Rhett’s lyrics call upon us to consider the good we can do, the change we can bring if we choose to ‘be a light’. The chorus refrain, In a world full of hate, be a light When you do somebody wrong, make it right Oh, don't hide in the dark, you were born to shine In a world full of hate, be a light.

I was also reminded of the hope and challenge in Amanda Gorman’s powerful spoken word poem, The Hill We Climb which closes with the lines, For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it.

If only we're brave enough to be it.

The human stories across the pages of this edition of The Crest are examples of the light that continued to shine brightly, from within and without the School this semester. As we headed into the second half of 2021, we were cautious and concerned about the likelihood of further lockdowns and the challenges they would pose. At year’s end we have emerged from a time when most of us experienced moments of darkness, mayhap even close to despair, but the important point is we have emerged with greater self-awareness of the need for connection and community.

So much is not of our choosing and beyond our control.

Often the dark and difficult moments are to be endured alone; however, the collective experience of the pandemic, although not uniform in its impact on our lives, has been a kind of shared experience. Like both world wars, other pandemics, or the Great Depression – this has been a common threat to our health, to our way of life and to many livelihoods.

It has also been, and will continue to be if we let it, a threat to the social contract and community connectedness. The very protective factors that have enabled us to emerge stronger than ever, thus far. When I moved to Melbourne, the stark difference between it and my place of birth, Sydney, was all about community and culture for me. I have been deeply

saddened to witness some of that fray in the wake of the pandemic and I wonder how long it will take to repair, restore and reconnect the threads that have come loose.

There are valuable lessons for us in the fine examples of lives well lived in Dr Janette Gordon-Clark and Mr Allan Pizzey.

Both volunteers that gave so much of their lives in service to our school. They stand as models of selflessness, fierce intellect and tenacious commitment to something larger than themselves – the shared values, the educational project and the strength of community of St Michael’s Grammar School.

Both faced considerable personal health challenges over the course of their lives, but they kept on – stoic and resolute that they would continue to lead lives of purposeful endeavour that would have an enduring legacy.

I am so deeply grateful to them both for sharing their expertise, their hearts and their minds with the School. In particular, Jan’s 81 years of connection to St Michael’s and her active love for the School is likely never to be matched for length of service and scope of involvement. She will be dearly missed by all, and remains the person from whom I have learned most about being a Michaelian and the unique gift of belonging to this wonderful school community. Jan always chose to be a light.

As did my own grandmother, Alice Agnes who introduced me to the Stoic philosophers that have kept me company these past two years. I acknowledge now, when in my youth I probably could not, that we can always choose how we see the circumstances that surround us and choose to be a light.

Surely that is what the resilience of spirit is, a choice– borne out of lessons that are difficult to learn, situational – in that it takes adverse circumstances for it to be practised and honed and, hard because of the bravery it requires of us and the relentless self-discipline it demands.

I hope you will enjoy the stories from The Crest this semester.

It chronicles and evidences many moments and examples of our community bringing forth its light for its own benefit but also for constructive pursuit of the common good. Thank you to all of contributors to its pages, may it serve as a source of light to generations of Michaelians that will follow.

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STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SCHOOL

Junior School: reflecting on 2021 Conventional classroom-based teaching and learning was tested again throughout 2021. The unique challenges faced by schools, children, and families continued, where we rapidly adjusted to modes of learning that went from the physical to the virtual and back again. Almost a year and a half later, we appreciate our work, social and school lives have been forever changed, yet so much has been achieved despite the ongoing challenges, and it is important to focus on the many positives that have emerged.

In 2021, there has been a requirement for us to be creative and agile as we supported our children to learn in different ways. While learning from their teachers, families were also involved in the lessons. Teachers became experts in all modes of communication, parents developed a deeper understanding of the curriculum, and students became more independent and autonomous learners.

For all learners, the capacity to be curious, resilient, persistent, self-regulating, motivated, empathetic, and tenacious has become as important as being able to navigate an iPad or an MS Teams meeting or conducting a Google search. The pandemic has highlighted what educators have long known, and that is the holistic development of a person, their habits of minds and dispositions are formed alongside and through the acquisition of knowledge and skills. These dispositions are critical, as we prepare our children for a very different and ever changing world.

Being a lead school in Respectful Relationships and having an embedded program in Positive Psychology, our children were well equipped throughout the year to tap into their strengths, as they demonstrated their capacity to be resilient and tenacious over a sustained period. Children had to manage hardship, disappointment, online fatigue, and frustration, and emerged with a sense of accomplishment having overcome their challenges.

Our Navigator Program across the school allowed staff to connect with families, and class teachers were able to assess 2 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

a child’s engagement, personal wellbeing, challenges, and triumphs. A survey of our Junior School children, conducted

by Mr Tim Roberts, Head of Positive Learning, reported high levels of feeling supported and nurtured. Additionally, they felt they were respected and that they were achieving their learning goals throughout the online learning period.

After meeting with some of members of the Student Representative Council (SRC), it was clear that the extended periods of online learning could be reviewed to allow for more learning time off a screen. In response, we implemented asynchronous learning time, so children could learn, at their own pace, and only engage online with the teacher if required.

Parents and students reported that this shift facilitated increased engagement, ownership and independence, and alleviated some screen fatigue. Always learning, our staff listen and respond to the needs of our students.

In 2021, our staff in the Junior School each nominated to be a part of a Professional Learning Team. Each team engaged in practitioner research to enrich our student experience and learning programs.

In Literacy, we undertook an audit of our reading and spelling programs. Consequently, we will be refining our approaches, initially in our lower primary years, and introducing basic Literacy concepts in Margaret Thomas House to complement existing programs. In Numeracy, we have analysed standardised data of children Prep-6 and conducted more research into mathematical mindsets. Based on this research, we will be engaging Educational Consultant, Rob Vingerhoets, to work with our staff and build on our existing programs.

Our ‘Inquiry’ Professional Learning Team is exploring our pedagogical approaches, student agency and community connections. We have engaged Kath Murdoch, a prominent writer, consultant and university lecturer who has worked extensively, throughout Australia and overseas, in inquirybased learning. Staff probed further into our Learner Profile, researching student agency and those critical dispositions

mentioned previously. Furthermore, our collaborative research with The University of Melbourne’s ‘New Metrics For Success’ project complements our in-school research, where we are examining, generating and trialling new assessment tools.

Finally, the Assessment and Reporting Team has piloted our online, continuous reporting program. This pilot was undertaken in Years 2, 4, 5 and 6. In 2022, all students will receive continuous, meaningful feedback in real time at certain points over the term, and all reports will be published online. Research has shown that timely and targeted feedback improves student learning and supports informed learning goals, which in turn improves overall learning outcomes.

Our Year 4 children engaged in the award winning, ‘Tomorrow’s Leaders for Sustainability Program.’ The program guides students through a sustainability project and leadership activities in their local environment. We will continue to evolve our environmental science, humanities and citizenship programs in the middle primary years, with local organisations and the Eco Centre at St Kilda Botanical Gardens.

Through The Wade Institute, at The University of Melbourne, we also had key staff attend the UpSchool Teacher Workshops, to research entrepreneurship programs for our upper primary students. This work is in its infancy, but we are excited about its potential to inform real-world learning for our students in upper primary.

In Semester Two, Mrs Belinda Klose joined the leadership team, as Director (P-3), and she has already made a significant contribution to our early primary years’ programs. Ms Emma Phillips continued in her role as Director (4-6), leading the critical work with the online reporting pilot program.

Mr Daniel Zito has been appointed as Director of Curriculum (K-6), commencing 2022, and his work will focus on taking carriage of the Teaching, Learning and Caring Programs. This is a new and pivotal leadership role in the Junior School, focused on ensuring we continue to evolve our high-quality programs.

We have streamlined the staffing model in MTH, and our Holiday Program has expanded significantly. Mrs Jill Garcia, Director of OHSC Programs, delivers high quality, engaging and fun programs and I thank her for her tireless work during a challenging year.

All staff members across K-6 have managed the demands of this year with grace and an unwavering commitment to our children. Their teacher leadership, support and tireless work allows us to evolve and strive for continuous improvement.

Finally, I wish to thank the Parent Community Association.

They dedicated their time and provided valuable feedback during a tough year. It has been a great pleasure to witness their commitment.

Our aim is to create a climate of curiosity and achievement, a culture of respect and to nurture our children to be caring, thoughtful and ethical lifelong learners. I thank the community for allowing me to serve you and I look forward to a fulfilling 2022.

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Year 5 students showed off their impressive hand painting skills.

Year 1 students at the St Kilda Botanical Gardens.

Students gathered for the mid-year House Picnic.

Margaret Thomas House Kindergarten students dressed up for their annual Children's Dinner Party.

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100 Days to Success: motivating our Year 12 students The St Michael’s Year 12 cohort returned to school at the start of Term 3 energised and inspired after attending our 100 Days to Success event at the State Library of Victoria.

The event is an annual feature of the Year 12 program and takes place on the first day of Term 3 each year. The name 100 Days to Success reflects the countdown to the students’ VCE examinations, and the event is designed to refocus and motivate students as they head into their final semester of secondary education.

“Opportunities for Year 12 students to pause, reflect and refine their goals are rare during the VCE year, so it was terrific to create this opportunity with our 100 Days to Success event to start Term 3.”

– Mr Ben Jeacocke, Director (10-12) The day commenced with a presentation from the State Library of Victoria about how students can utilise libraries as a resource for their academic study, this year and beyond.

Then, students were greeted virtually by the highly regarded presenter Nathan Strempel. Nathan spoke about overcoming the fear of failure, the importance of perseverance, and making each moment count in the months ahead.

“Nathan has been such a key part of the event for some time now, so it was terrific that he was able to share his message with students, despite it not being possible to have him join us in person this year. His message to students about having the courage to give the remaining months their best and to be open to opportunities that present themselves as they move on to life beyond school really resonated with the students,” said Mr Ben Jeacocke, Director (10-12).

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“I thought it was very interesting to learn about different, open and positive mindsets for not only school, but life in general.”

– Matthew, Year 12 student As part of the day, students participated in the Elevate Education ‘Finishing Line’ Study Skills Seminar, which examined different approaches to study in the lead-up to the final exams, discussed how to use the SWOTVAC period effectively, and addressed the issues of managing time and energy during the final, often stressful months of Year 12.

The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring the familiar faces of recent St Michael’s graduates, who shared their experience of completing the VCE, the stories of their diverse pathways since finishing Year 12, and their tips for VCE success.

“The day was eye-opening. It gave us all an opportunity to reflect on the year and look forward to what challenges may arise during the rest of the year and in our time after Year 12.”

– Daniel, Year 12 student The event was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 12 2021 students to come together as a cohort, especially since the event fell just before another period of lockdown and online learning. Students finished the day prepared to head confidently into their final exams and life beyond St Michael’s.

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Class of 2021: Quindecennial students At the conclusion of each year, we bid farewell to our Year 12s, some of who have made the long and rewarding journey from Kindergarten to Year 12 at St Michael's.

The Quindecennial Prize is presented to each Year 12 student who attends St Michael’s from 3 Year Old Kindergarten at Margaret Thomas House, and graduates from Year 12, completing 15 years at the School without interruption. The

students provide authentic evidence of the continuity and community that is at the core of our values at St Michael’s.

This annual award was established by Mr and Mrs Gray, and Mr and Mrs Hornsey, whose children attended St Michael’s.

Congratulations to Avalon (12H), Benjamin (12S), Daniel (12K) and Will (12B) on your 15-year journey with St Michael's.

1. Avalon 2. Benjamin 3. Daniel 4. Will

A special boost for Year 12 students In September, it was wonderful to see our Year 12 students face-to-face as they collected care packages from the School. The packages contained everything from chocolate and tea, to well wishes from their younger peers, helpful VCE study resources, a special gift from their Heads of House and their much-anticipated Year 12 hoodies!

In the midst of a long lockdown in Melbourne, it was fantastic to be able to wish our VCE students all the best for the weeks ahead.

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John (12M) and Lucy (12M) collecting their gift bags.

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Farewelling the Class of 2021 On Friday 26 November 2021, we celebrated our Year 12 students completing their journey at St Michael’s Grammar School with a traditional Valedictory Day Service.

Valedictory Day is a significant milestone for our Year 12 students and marks their final day of school and the culmination of all their hard work.

As is tradition, the graduating Class Of 2021 started their day by gathering outside St George’s Church to enjoy a breakfast hosted by the School. Not even the drizzling rain could dampen the spirits of the indomitable graduating class. As always, the creatively re-imagined uniforms were a wonder to see.

Our Year 12s then entered the School gates for the final time, where students from all year levels lined the Coleman Walk, forming a guard of honour to farewell the Year 12 cohort. The Year 12s then joined their House assemblies, where they were individually farewelled by their teachers.

The formal Valedictory Eucharist was held in St George's Church. Mia and Zac, Co-Captains of the School (7-12), addressed the congregation, offering humble words of thanks and wisdom, and fondly farewelling their classmates, teachers, and members of the St Michael’s community.

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At the conclusion of the service, each student took a candle bearing the School Crest, lit it from the St Michael’s candle, and took their light out into the world to embark on their adult lives.

That evening, students dined with their parents, guardians and staff at the MCC Members Dining Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the Valedictory Dinner celebration.

We are extremely proud of this year’s graduating Class.

We enjoyed witnessing their successes, growth, tenacity and support of one another during their entire St Michael’s journey. We wish them a fond farewell with gratitude for their leadership and courage.

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Mrs Terrie Jones watches on as Elijah (12K) lights his Valedictory Candle.

Isabel (12H) sits in the Hughes House party room, listening to an inspiring speech.

Students congregated outside St George's Church for a breakfast hosted by the School.

Year 12 students entered the School gates for the final time The front lawn of Hewison House.

Gwendolen (12H) leaves Valedictory Day with a gift box arranged by the School.

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Artistic works on display at the Virtual 12 Exhibition The annual 12 Exhibition is an opportunity for our talented VCE Visual Communication Design, Studio Arts, Media, and Art students to showcase their impressive final works in a commercial gallery setting.

In the past, the Exhibition has been staged in the Brightspace Gallery in St Kilda. In 2020 and 2021, the exhibition was reimagined for the virtual setting. Brightspace 2021 recreates the gallery and allows viewers to explore students’ artwork on the virtual walls of the gallery, and their films in the virtual Astor Theatre.

For most students, this is the first time that their artwork will be displayed by a commercial gallery. The 12 Exhibition allows students to experience a transition from creating art as a student at St Michael’s, to leaving school and making art in a world beyond the School gates.

Students, staff, family, friends and community members are encouraged to visit the 12 Exhibition to help us celebrate the incredible artistic talents of our Year 12 students. The gallery can be viewed by scanning the QR code here.

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Tilda Lynch VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN The Frank Gallery is a purpose-built exhibition space (pictured above) drawing on the minimalist nature of Japanese architecture. On display is an assortment of works originating from the provinces of France to the islands of Japan. Visitors may enjoy the refreshing nature of the indoor gardens after an engaging glimpse of the collection, or perhaps the tranquility of the koi pond outside. Situated on a bed of sand, the gallery forecourt inspires meditation - rakes providing visitors an opportunity to create their own unique zen patterns in the sand. Featuring dark timber cladding and lightly tinted glass, the gallery is an ode to traditional Japanese culture. An architectural figure - providing an abundance of light-filled spaces, interior gardens and an open and flexible floorplan, the Frank Gallery is more than just a beautiful and functional space. It is a walk through culture and time.

— Tilda (12S)

Isabelle Willis MIXED MEDIA “If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos."

— E. O. Wilson I explored the idea of environments with a focus on humans differing relationship to them. I chose this theme because I feel passionately about issues that impact the natural environment and want to be a catalyst for positive change. My aim was to create thought-provoking works that encourages people to look at their impact on the environment and ideally start the process living greener/helping the world. I analysed the connection between humans and the different environments, natural and man-made to show the possibility that these two don’t need to be separate but are entwined.

— Isabel (12H)

Avi Morrison ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY At the beginning of 2021, I had several ideas to drive my photographic process and folio for the duration of the year. One idea really stood out: take my passion for the starry night sky, as a way to develop and challenge my photography skills.

The night sky is a way to escape the real world; to be mesmerised and lost within the galaxy.

Astrophotography involves reproducing what the naked human eye can see and what it cannot see.

By making this my subject matter for the year, I explored the concept of creating abstract and beautiful images of the night sky. My aim was to develop images that would make a connection with viewers, so they would take time to stop, wonder and question our universe. For them to have an image in which to get lost.

This image has been duplicated and manipulated into a four-way mirrored image; mirrored vertically and horizontally. Producing abstract art with the night sky as my canvas. The milky way is a straight line across the image, creating a juxtaposition with the horizon, as the bushes build up towards the right for the whole length of the frame.

— Avi (12H)

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St Michael’s launches first Reconciliation Action Plan In August, St Michael’s Grammar School formally launched the first iteration of its Reconciliation Action Plan, as endorsed

by Narragunnawali - Reconciliation Australia.

St Michael’s is committed to strategically and practically building a culture which acknowledges, affirms and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and traditions through respectful learning, experiences and connections. The launch of our first Reconciliation Action Plan represents this commitment.

principles From, With and For. These pillars will enable us to create a learning ecosystem that will nourish, sustain and grow our efforts and contributions towards reconciliation.

Our vision is for students to learn From Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, With their peers, staff and the wider community, For the enduring purpose and benefits of a just, equitable and reconciled Australia.

“The RAP provides a vision of developing a culture of respect in our school community and maps the initiatives we currently have embedded in our curriculum, celebrations and ceremonies as well as Our Way of Being.

It helps us to understand the value of Indigenous culture and how we can honour and learn more.”

– Mr Tim Roberts, Head of Positive Learning

In the RAP, the School has committed to achieving 24 new targets which span across Narragunnawali’s three categories: Relationships, Respect and Opportunities.

Staff, parents and students from across the school have been involved in creating the RAP. A key component of the RAP is to build cultural competency and cultural safety at St Michael’s, and to assist with this, we are excited to share with Staff a new suite of optional online learning modules. All staff members have the opportunity to undertake one of three Cultural Awareness courses, based on their prior experience with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture. Details of the courses will be shared with Staff through our learning platform, SchoL. St Michael’s first RAP is closely tied to our Strategic Direction: Towards 2030, which is centred around the organising 10 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

Through the steps made in our first Reconciliation Action Plan, and the RAPs to follow, the St Michael’s community will gain the wisdom to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, committed to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

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Fraser's (Year 1) Acknowledgement of Country Students begin learning about Boon Wurrung culture in Kindergarten The importance of reconciliation is taught from the beginning Lani (Year 1) created this Acknowledgement of Country

A new era of Performing Arts – St George’s Church redevelopment St Michael’s acclaimed Performing Arts program is about to enter a new era with plans in place for an exciting new immersive theatrical space to be available to students by early 2023.

When the refurbishment is completed, the Church will provide much needed, enhanced facilities including:

The School is justifiably proud of its Performing Arts program which both nurtures students of outstanding talent and encourages all students to discover the joy of creativity. In recent years the Performing Arts program has been based in the heritage-listed St George’s Church. This much-loved building has a rich history as a vibrant hub for the community.

However, over time the building has degraded making it increasingly unfit for the School’s purpose and putting at risk its distinctive heritage features.

• A performance space that can respond to the diverse performance requirements across a range of art forms including dance, drama and solo and group musical performances.

We are therefore delighted that, in 2022, St George’s will be redeveloped to house state-of-the-art performance facilities, including a 400 seat auditorium. The design will leave intact the original fabric of the building and preserve the many heritage features, so that on completion, the Church will be a striking blend of tradition and innovation.

The refurbishment will benefit our students by providing high quality dedicated facilities for Music, Drama and the Performing Arts as well as much-needed space for general School use.

BENEFITS TO OUR STUDENTS The former St George’s Presbyterian Church has been a part of the St Michael’s campus since it was originally leased in 1987. In 1991 it was first used as a Music School and the precinct has subsequently become the home of the Performing Arts program at St Michael’s. The School purchased the Church and surrounding buildings in 2013.

• A flexible auditorium which can be adapted for multiple uses and which can be modified to accommodate future needs.

• A high-quality sound system that supports a range of performance opportunities.

• Sympathetic and effective lighting solutions which not only enhance performances and productions, but which highlight and celebrate existing and new architectural features.

• A sprung floor suitable for dance performance and aerobics.

• A new and inviting foyer providing an accessible and attractive entrance to the Church, professional box office facilities and additional classroom space.

Not only will the new facilities provide an enhanced student experience they will result in considerable savings on venue hire, reduce disruption to student learning and reduce risk as students will no longer need to travel to as many external venues. Additional functional venue space will be available for the School, an important factor on a campus where space is at a premium.

The project is integral in facilitating our Strategic Direction: Towards 2030 which includes developing engaging and contemporary spaces for learning and providing enhanced opportunities for us to develop strategic partnerships with key cultural, business and community organisations.

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Teaching, Learning and Caring As 2021 draws to a close, we are excited to launch our Teaching, Learning and Caring Framework for 2022. Its publication is the culmination of a two-year project and partnership with our critical friend, Dr Lyn Sharratt, to distil the essence of the approaches to Teaching, Learning and Caring at St Michael’s and align research, pedagogy and practice in, and beyond, the classrooms across the School.

The framework honours the progressive, creative and inclusive approach to teaching and learning that have long served the School well; but brings clarity to, and integrates all elements of our programs, to leverage a culture of continuous improvement in the service of student learning and wellbeing outcomes.

The framework has its anchors in our past, and provides a foundation from which we can take flight into new possibilities for educational excellence. St Michael’s has always been a place where the whole child has been at the centre of the educational mission. The Community of the Sisters of the Church were one of the first orders to formally educate its members in teaching methods. The Sisters first embraced the principles of pedagogue Friedrich Froebel in the 19th Century with the Kindergarten practices of play and imagination, inspiring a child-centred approach from the earliest days of their educational enterprise in Kilburn in England.

By 1929, the Australian branch of the Order had moved its headquarters, the Noviciate, from Hobart to St Kilda and 12 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

St Michael’s became the ‘practice school’ for the teaching Sisters who were undertaking degrees at the University of Melbourne. The Sisters held that intellectual endeavour, cultural pursuits and values formation were crucial to graduating well-rounded young people. That holistic approach has shaped the St Michael’s journey ever since and is one of the School’s most enduring ‘golden threads’.

The TLC Framework encapsulates those threads and weaves a narrative to align and account for our approaches in the wake of the development of our Strategic Direction: Towards 2030. As an outcome of that process, the School recommitted to its holistic approach using the metaphor of the School as a learning ecosystem. It positions our learners as agents of their schooling, proudly acknowledging their capacity to learn and develop the skills and dispositions that will enable them to direct their knowledge acquisition not only for their own benefit, but also for the good of the world.

The St Michael’s Grammar School Framework for Teaching, Learning and Caring (TLC) is anchored by the School’s values and our commitment to professional and personal accountability. Dignity, Respect, Care and Compassion encompass, and shape, the daily interactions between all members of the St Michael's Community.

Within our explicit values-driven community, wellbeing and deep learning are inextricably linked, informed by the research of Professors Michael Fullan, Jean Clinton and Stephen De Groot. Throughout their journey students at St Michael’s

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The TLC Framework encodes the principles and practices to inform the design of learning experiences so each individual child and young person has opportunities to identify and hone their unique talents and use their 'head, heart, and hands' to develop as:

• Collaborative, efficacious and contributing citizens

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are supported and empowered to chart a course to thrive by developing the learning dispositions, competencies and networks of relationships that will equip them to make a positive difference in their own lives and to the lives of others.

• Leaders in their fields of endeavour

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• Independent, ethical thinkers

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• Creative and flexible problem-solvers

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To realise this ‘graduate aim’ we have encoded an image of the learner that teachers carry into their conversations about curriculum and learning design along with a set of outcomes for wellbeing, learning dispositions and global competencies that interact in the teaching and learning program to move students towards being effective life-long learners with a perspective larger and more encompassing with every passing year.

The framework keeps a clear line of sight to the individual student and its companion implementation document assists the collaborative and professional conversations and learning design process that brings our learning experiences to life.

More information about the TLC Framework will be available on our website in 2022.

With the appointment of Dr Luke Mandouit to the newly created Executive role of Head of Research, Innovation and Professional Practice, the School’s faculty is poised to continue this transformative work in 2022. Equipping, inspiring and supporting our children and young people with an education worth having, and one that ensures they can navigate this increasingly volatile and uncertain world with poise, a resilient sense of self, and the confidence to make a difference.

Terrie Jones Head of the School The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 13

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Yuma wins fifth consecutive Apple Student Challenge For the fifth year in a row, Year 9 student Yuma was selected

by Apple as a Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) Swift Student Challenge winner.

Thousands of students from around the world enter the competition each year to showcase their passion for coding and create an interactive scene to impress the judges at Apple, the world’s largest technology company.

In 2017, Yuma was the youngest winner of the challenge. He was invited to meet Apple CEO Tim Cook and even received a special mention in Tim’s keynote speech.

Yuma’s successes at the WWDC conferences have created many opportunities for him. ““I've met some highly inspirational people such as Tim Cook and Michelle Obama. Since my first WWDC, I've started doing public speaking and even went to Egypt twice, where I was given an award by the President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi.”

Yuma sees a career in technology as a lifelong journey of learning and creativity.

“Technology has many branches and paths to go down, and discovering new paths to take is probably the most exciting thing about coding and tech. You also get the chance to make whatever you like. What you make is only limited by your creativity.”

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Yuma enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for coding with others. He manages a YouTube channel called Anyone Can Code!, a name which encapsulates his belief in the power of coding and technology.

“One of the best pieces of advice I've ever been given would be to follow your passions and simply do what you enjoy, which is something I tell others to do too.”

Yuma has many remarkable goals for the future. He would like to specialise in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence or Augmented Reality, or another new technology with potential for future growth.

“I hope I can create an app or something that can help to make people's lives better.”

“I also have plans to update my website and some of my apps, as well as make some tutorials on my YouTube channel, Anyone Can Code! I want to grow my YouTube channel and inspire more people and kids to code.”

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Yuma speaks to the team at Sunrise Letter of Congratulations from Apple Yuma speaks at WWDC event

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The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 15

S TA F F S P OT L I G H T

Chris Mills Before realising his aspirations to teach, Chris studied a Bachelor of Commerce and was employed as a Branch Manager at the Commonwealth Bank for a number of years. It wasn’t until he decided to take up a training role at the Bank that he discovered his passion for coaching, training and watching people learn. He then returned to university to study teaching, a decision that Chris is extremely glad he made. Chris has now been working in schools for 14 years in various roles including VCE Coordinator, Director of Studies – Senior School, Humanities Faculty Leader and Head of House.

their families, staff, and the broader community of St Michael’s have systems and programs to develop stronger connections and opportunities for further growth”.

Next year, Chris will take on the important role of Acting Director of Operations and is excited for the challenge. “I am looking forward to working in a team environment that aims to ensure our students,

When he’s not in the classroom, Chris enjoys the outdoors and keeping fit.

His beautiful and energetic English Staffordshire, Chloe, ensures that he is up early every morning during the week for a good hour-long walk.

Belinda Klose Belinda Klose started her journey at St Michael’s in Term 3, 2021 in the role of Director of Prep to Year 3. Belinda has over 20 years teaching experience and has completed a Master of Education at Melbourne University with a core focus on leadership, curriculum, assessment and student needs. These experiences have allowed her to inquire deeper into her own personal teaching pedagogy and understand the nature of the many changes evolving in Education today.

where they can develop a sustained enthusiasm for learning, supported by a tailored explicit curriculum which provides the challenges and encouragement for all to thrive and develop at their own individual pace.

Building relationships with all families is fundamental as this allows parents and teachers to work in collaboration and create the best outcomes for each child. Belinda also enjoys working with teachers and building a collaborative learning culture.

During Belinda’s time at St Michael’s, she has come to value the strong community connections and the energy and passion from all the children and teaching staff. Belinda believes that the culture embedded at St Michael’s enables all children to feel connected, valued and known.

Outside of school Belinda enjoys spending time with her two daughters and husband. They love visiting new places, the beach and watching AFL. Belinda has a keen interest in running, with her morning routine consisting of a daily run along the beach with her very loyal border collie ‘Blondie.’

As a teacher, Belinda loves having the ability to promote an environment that values every child’s contribution,

Belinda has thoroughly enjoyed the many smiles and bright eyes across the School.

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The relationships between students, parents and staff at St Michael’s is what Chris values the most. “The rapport is grounded in deep care and compassion, mutual respect, the lively exchange of ideas, and an appreciation for the unique talents of everyone in our St Michael’s community. I also appreciate that we, as a school, encourage diversity, creativity and citizenship.

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Merry Month of May St Michael’s has a long and rich history of volunteering in the community. Our community action program runs throughout a student’s time at the School, informing, educating and empowering them to consciously choose to make a positive contribution to society.

number of staff members and the PCA, more than met the goal to promote, re-connect and re-energise the Merry Month of May in 2021. Our School community managed to raise an impressive $50,352 over the course of the month, which exceeded the amount raised in previous years.

The highlight every year is the Merry Month of May, a dedicated month of raising funds and awareness for a series of causes chosen by the students. Generosity, kindness, and a steadfast commitment to making a difference were at the heart of our collective efforts during the Merry Month of May.

“We are extremely proud of our Year 12 students for leading the Merry Month of May and are grateful to the entire St Michael’s community for all their support. It was heartening to witness the generosity and care of our wonderful school community,” said Murray, Head of Community Service (K-12).

Each week, the School community supported a different charity through a series of fundraising activities. In Term 1 when the Student Leaders began to plan the month, they chose to focus on four charities aligned to their commitment to inclusion, care, blood cancer research and climate change.

The students researched and selected these areas of focus as they wanted to address current, relevant and purposeful concerns of the twenty-first century.

The Lighthouse Foundation, Leukaemia Foundation, Minus18 and Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network were all extremely well promoted over the month and we learned a great deal about their work and the communities they support.

Thankfully, all of the wonderful activities and awarenessraising events were successfully completed prior to the lockdown. The Student Leaders, supported by the Head of Community Service (K-12) Mr Murray Phyland, an astonishing

We are grateful to everyone involved and all who donated their time, in-kind items or funds.

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Junior School students dressed up as superheroes for MMOM. Our amazing students participating in The World's Greatest Shave.

The Netball 1sts Girls team ready for their match against the Football 1sts Boys team.

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Community Action Day Term 4 Friday 12 November was St Michael’s last Community Action Day for 2021. It was an action-packed day, where we celebrated World Kindness Day, International Men’s Day, participated in games and raffles, and most importantly, raised money for our chosen charities Movember and The Danny Frawley Centre for Health & Wellbeing (DFC). A wonderful team of students and staff from our Community Action Group worked together to ensure the day ran smoothly.

The drizzly weather didn’t dampen the spirits of our School community as they rolled up their sleeves for a good cause.

In the Senior School, various games such as ‘Guess It’, ‘Slide It’, and ‘Lob A Choc’ were relocated inside Dolly’s café, with participants using their gold coin donations to try and land a prize. In the Junior School, students participated in an indoor carnival, with various games and activities occurring on the second floor of the Allan Pizzey Building.

The attention on mental health was a major focus for the proceedings of the day, following a challenging year filled with uncertainty, lockdowns, and online learning. Students identified the DFC as providing useful mental health and wellness programs to the community. The DFC will build upon and extend St Kilda’s existing RSEA Park Stage 2 development plans by ultimately incorporating a 25m lap pool, hydrotherapy pool and rehabilitation gym, as well as a multi-purpose movement space capable of delivering wellbeing programs to schools and community groups.

Dedicated mental health facilities will include consulting suites for service providers, shared work areas for program development and research, a community education room for prevention and training programs as well as casual meeting spaces for facility users.

“Messages like these help spread awareness about mental health, while also helping people in the School community to realise that you aren’t alone and there’s always someone you can talk to.”

– Abby Fletcher, 10H

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For a gold coin donation, students wore casual clothes and enjoyed a sausage sizzle outside The Gipson Commons.

Students volunteered to take on duties such as cooking the barbecue, operating the cash register and collecting money for the various charities.

Speaking about the association with International Men’s Day and the charity Movember, Head of Kilburn House (10-12) and Community Action Leader, Miss Chloe Hancock, said there has been a major shift of attention onto mental health, specifically men’s mental health, and how we can approach talking about the subject.

“Statistically, men are more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health illness but are also less likely to seek help. It’s important that our community is armed with awareness and knowledge about the avenues we can go down to either seek help, or ask someone if they’re doing OK, both inside and outside of School.”

– Miss Chloe Hancock, Head of Kilburn House (10-12) Students in both the Junior and Senior School were also encouraged to leave messages of support for each other on the ‘Kindness Clothesline’ for World Kindness Day. Whether it was simply compassionate message, a positive inspirational quote or a thoughtful note to lift spirits, students hung up their messages in a step towards making kindness the norm.

“It’s really great to have such a good cause on board for our Community Action Day. It’s something really important, and mental health isn’t always widely talked about.” – Will, 8B Thank you to our all our students and staff for making our last Community Action Day for 2021 so memorable.

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Oscar (9M), Sam (12K) and Mr Murray Phyland take control of the Sausage Sizzle Junior School students leaving caring messages on the 'Kindness Clothesline'

Remembrance Day 2021 Remembrance Day on 11 November was a time for us to take a pause from our busy lives, reflect on the tragedy of war, and to think about those who lost their lives as a result of war, and those who were left behind.

Many members of the St Michael’s community wore Legacy Australia poppies—a sign that we respect and honour those who have fought in war. We also reinstalled our ‘Field of Poppies’, which was created in collaboration with Mrs Raelene Harper and Ms Lyn Berry, daughters of late members of the 14/32 Battalion.

Teacher and ex-serviceman, Mr Bruce Sampson, attended the Shrine of Remembrance to lay a wreath for the 14/32 Australian Infantry Battalion.

St Michael’s formalised its relationship with the 14/32 Australian Infantry Battalion AIF Association in 2004 and became the custodian of the Battalion’s regimental banner.

We honour those who lost their lives as a result of war, and those who were left behind.

Lest We Forget.

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Hewison House dressed with poppies The Field of Poppies St Michael's wreath for 14/32 Battalion The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 19

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On Wednesday 19 May, Margaret Thomas House students joined one million children across Australia for the National Simultaneous Storytime. This year's book, Give Me Some Space by Philip Bunting, was read via live stream by NASA Astronaut Dr Shannon Walker in the zero-gravity environment of the Japanese Experiment Module (Kibo) at the International Space Station.

1. Dr Shannon Walker reads for Simultaneous Storytime 2&3. National Simultaneous Storytime Event 20 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

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Book Week At the end of August, the Junior School students enjoyed a fabulous Book Week, including some very special author visits. Nat Amoore had us laughing in Years 4, 5 and 6 with her high energy storytelling about life as an author. Nat encouraged us to collect experiences and details from our real lives and put them into our written stories to make the stories feel real. We thought about the power of storytelling to make us feel things, send us to new worlds, think about the world, and to question what is right or wrong.

Author Nicki Greenberg inspired the Arbor, Silvae, Prep, Year 1, Year 2, and Year 3 children as she shared her creative processes. She talked about practising drawing by following her curiosity and researching her subjects. Nicki also showed us her thick stack of drafts before publishing a story. We went on a wonderful journey to the Great Barrier Reef through Nicki’s picture book I’m Fabulous Crab!

Prep to 3 children were delighted by surprise visits from some favourite real-life characters who popped in to read their stories.

And perhaps the most anticipated part of Book Week, Dress Up Day! Well done to our Junior School students for their creative costumes inspired by their favourite books and characters!

Congratulations to the award winners: Best Group Costume – All the Margaret Thomas House children Best Homemade costume – Woody (PA) as Mr Twit Best Original costume – Sidney (5S) as Dragon Best Staff costume – Ms Mountford as Harry the Dirty Dog

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Author Nicki Greenberg shares her creative process.

Best Original costume – Sidney as Dragon.

Best Staff costume – Ms Mountford as Harry the Dirty Dog. Author, Nat Amoore.

Best Homemade costume – Woody as Mr Twit.

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Junior School Athletics Carnival After its initial postponement due to lockdowns, the K-2 Athletics Carnival finally took place on Tuesday 30 November.

Students participated in the event with great enthusiasm, celebrating a return to organised Sport, the beautiful spring weather, and all the athletic skills they had been learning over the year.

The fundamentals of athletics - run, jump and throw - were all on display as the students spent the morning moving from event to event in their Year Level group. For students in Prep to Year 2, they had the opportunity to compete with their House members and it was great to see a splash of House colour added to their sport uniform.

At the Years 3 to 6 House Athletics Carnival in August, our students impressed us with their competitive spirit, positive attitude, and the care and compassion they showed toward each other.

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With all track and field results tallied, the results of the Years 3-6 House Athletics Shield were: 1st

Moss

944

2nd

Cintra

921

3rd

Marlton

819

4th

Woods

736

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Sack races on Frances Newson Oval.

K-2 Athletics celebrating the fundamentals of 'run, jump and throw'.

Zadie (6I) soared in the High Jump event Students raced down the track in the relay Mackenzie (3D) lines up her throw

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2021 ACS Athletics Carnival results St Michael’s is a member of the Association of Co-educational Schools (ACS), a premier interschool sports association, committed to the wellbeing of all students through sport.

trained our students so they were ready to perform on the day.

Their dedication to prepare our team is greatly appreciated by all of our athletes.

This year, the ACS Athletics Carnival was held on Monday 24 May. In a first, the carnival was held in the afternoon with the final event concluding under lights at 5.45pm.

Whilst we didn’t win overall, finishing 4th in both the Boys and Girls Aggregate and 4th in the combined Overall Aggregate, the day did produce some outstanding individual and relay results.

In a shortened schedule of training due to the timing of the House Carnival, our students remained committed, taking part in a 4 week training schedule including Saturday morning sessions and our Friday relay clinic.

Mrs Emma Cowan, ACS Athletics Coordinator, worked tirelessly putting the team together, and Mr Steve Cain, Head Coach, organised our specialist coaches who prepared and

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Grace (12S) races down the track.

Isaac (11B) charges ahead.

Lucy (8M) speeds ahead in the group relay Charli (9K) reaches new heights in high jump The Year 11 Winners of the 4x100m event The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 23

Double victory at the Geoffrey Ryan Cup We are very proud of our footballers for their double victory at the Geoffrey Ryan Cup in May. St Michael’s 1st Girls were victorious in their inaugural event, defeating Westbourne Grammar School 4.6.30 to 3.3.21. The 1st Boys team then brought the Cup home for St Michael’s with a win of 11.11.77 over Westbourne with 9.10.64.

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Netball Night Match

Dimitri trains with tennis greats

Our First VII Netball team put on a thrilling performance in the annual Night Match against Westbourne Grammar School in August.

Congratulations to Westbourne for the win in 2021 and well done to all involved - players, coaches, and the team who brought it to us live online!

Year 8 student Dimitri (8H) joined two of Australia’s greatest tennis heroes, Sam Stosur and Todd Woodbridge, for a Roland Garros preview session with Tennis Australia. Along with being the number 1 ranked player for St Michael’s Year 8 Boys Tennis Team, Dimitri is part of Tennis Australia’s National Development Squad.

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Online Performing Arts Evening Congratulations to the 2021 Performing Arts Captains, who persevered through the lockdown restrictions to collate the acts and re-imagine their student-run Performing Arts Night which premiered on Wednesday 1 September. We were delighted that so many could join them and support their terrific endeavours.

The night included special performances by Ruby (12M), Darcey (7B), Jasmin (11M), Jack (11S), Poppy (7S), Sophia (7H), Iris (7S), Madelyn (7S), Dominic (11B), Charlie (10B), 26 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

Holly (8S), Graciella (8M), Alex (10M), Isaac (11B), Scout (10B), Ned (12H).

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Alex, host of the night Darcey performs a contemporary solo dance piece Charlie provides comic relief during intermission Scout sings She Used to Be Mine from Waitress Dominic performs the Clair De Lune Holly performs a solo song

2021 Song Writing Competition We were delighted to have received 21 song submissions from 18 different composers or teams as part of the 2021 House Song Writing Competition. As was the case last year, this competition was staged as an alternative to a live House Music performance competition as a result of the extended period of remote learning.

Songs were ranked in order of the points they received from the Music Faculty judges and ranking points were then awarded to the composer's House. An additional point was also awarded to each House for each entry submitted. The final results were as follows:

1st

KILBURN

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HUGHES

(17.5 points)

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MITRE

(16.5 points)

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BREEN

(8 points)

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SARUM

(6 points)

Congratulations to all students who entered, particularly to Kilburn House for taking out this year's Song Writing Competition!

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Celebrating National eSmart Week Over the past two years, the COVID-powered shift to online learning has meant that our digital relationships and behaviour are more significant than ever before.

In September, St Michael’s participated in the Alannah & Madeline Foundation’s National eSmart Week, an opportunity to share knowledge and celebrate being smart, safe and responsible when using digital technology. It was a time to raise awareness and elevate education on the issues of cyber safety, cyber bullying and wellbeing.

For National eSmart Week, St Michael’s teachers had the opportunity to join online events, such as live storytime sessions for Junior School students, interactive and thoughtprovoking discussion topics, and topical quizzes for Junior and Senior students.

Staff also utilised the Virtual Staff Room SchoL page, to share images of the things that are helping them through life in lockdown and reconnect with each other in a positive online environment.

St Michael’s has been a registered eSmart School with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation since 2019. This association ensures that we continue to re-evaluate our approaches to cyber education, ICT policies, that we strive to promote positive and respectful digital relationships, encourage appropriate selfrepresentation online, and provide students and staff with the latest educational resources around technology.

St Michael’s accreditation with the Foundation could not have come at a more opportune moment. In 2020, as the School was plunged into long periods of online learning, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation framework helped to ensure the safety of students and professionalism for staff. Staff 28 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

were supported in learning new skills in relation to curriculum delivery and assisted in the management of issues that may arise in the digital space.

“The situation allowed many staff to become proficient in various modes of delivery, which not only enhanced their teaching repertoire but also created a varied and interesting way for students to receive and complete work.”

– Mr Tim Roberts, Head of Positive Learning Now, the eSmart curriculum takes a meaningful place in learning across the school, such as in our newly designed Personal Wellbeing subject. Students learn about cyber bullying and cyber safety, are provided with a toolkit of strategies to use when confronted with difficult situations online, and learn best practice behaviours in the use of all devices. Students also learn about their digital footprint, online reputation and how this affects their long-term social image.

The framework also ensures that we regularly communicate with parents regarding technology, cyber safety and wellbeing through newsletters, SchoL posts and specific events and webinars relevant to cyber safety and technology.

By continuing to build an eSmart population, we can reduce online harm to children and increase wellbeing in our community. Thanks to the Alannah & Madeline Foundation for helping us to create a smart, safe and responsible digital environment for all.

R U OK Day Thursday 9 September saw R U OK Day? taking place during the middle of Melbourne’s sixth lockdown, adding an extra layer of importance to the national day of action.

In preparation, our Student Leaders developed a Resource Hub to provide members of the St Michael’s community with tips and practical examples of how to reach out and ask a friend if they're OK. We are proud of our students for leading the conversation around mental health, and looking out for each other during the course of 2021.

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Josh (12B) Lists 4 Steps for asking R U OK?

Letters to Benetas Aged Care St Michael’s students maintained their community connection with Benetas Lovell House Aged Care residents during lockdown. The relationship with Benetas Lovell House was established over 2 years ago and was this year commandeered by the Years 7-9 Community Action Group.

Residents received a newspaper prepared by the students called The Benetas Connect with jokes and interesting

information, as well as letters, small booklets and handmade cards.

The Year 10 Immersion Project for Community Service also empowered students to produce care packs for Benetas which were gratefully received.

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National Science Week The school theme for National Science Week 2021 was Food: Different by Design. It honoured the United Nations International Year of Fruits and Vegetables and the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development.

Students were taught how to combine certain ingredients, and were encouraged to take a hands-on approach to getting creative in the kitchen.

From homemade water filters, to commercial kitchen demonstrations, students explored different experiments and workshops.

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Mad About Science Our Year 1 students thoroughly enjoyed an incursion with Mad About Science, where they investigated the science behind light and sound. Students learned how light and sound travel in waves, how we can feel sound vibrations, that light can be reflected and refracted, and more about how our amazing brains work.

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Year 1 students listened carefully whilst wearing blindfolds Jack (1R) made music through improvisation

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The Lighthouse In July, our Year 5 students travelled to the Arts Centre Melbourne to attend The Lighthouse – an interactive light and sound wonderland. An intersection of science and art, the performance and installation sparked curiosity in our students and enabled them to learn more about light.

Asynchronous afternoons During the extended lockdowns of 2021, we recognised that the challenges of everyday life were increasingly complex as we juggled the demands of the ‘online’ and ‘real’ worlds.

In response, and inspired by our founding Sisters’ practice, the school community looked for ways to harness the power of pausing.

For our students, the benefits of pausing and being present are numerous. The act of pausing has the potential to improve wellbeing, sleep, emotional regulation, resilience and productivity, while also reducing anxiety.

In the spirit of this, we asked our students to follow the ABC of Asynchronous Afternoons - 'Away from Screens', 'Be Active", 'Catch Up" - every Friday afternoon of remote learning and in place of on-site sport lessons. Students could also participate in various interest group chats, covering topics such as cooking, video games, art, exercise, music, books, sport, world politics, and movies.

Throughout the online learning period, it was important for our students to make time for a ‘brain break’, away from screens so that they could reset, restore and rejuvenate.

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Public Speaking success

On Monday 16 August, St Michael’s hosted the ACS Public Speaking Competition online. Alex (12K) won the Senior Competition with his intelligent take on gender norms and their contribution to ‘toxic masculinity’. Darcey (7B) placed second in the Junior Competition with her articulate and impassioned stance on the perils of fast fashion.

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Congratulations to St Michael's Chess Team for another sensational effort at the Gippsland Zone online interschool chess event. The team dominated the top ten places and finished first overall. A special mention to Alec (10S) who won all seven of his games and was the highest-ranked player of the tournament.

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Alex (12K) Darcey (12B)

The Chess Team with their winning medals.

Competitors put in many hours of practice to take out the win.

Kobe’s composition praised In August, Kobe (12K) was selected by the Victorian branch of the Australian Society for Music Education (ASME) as the state representative in the 2021 Australian Society for Music Education Young Composers Project.

In acknowledging Kobe’s composition, the Society representative, Dr Leon De Bruin, said that Kobe’s composition, Voyage of the Beagle “captured the imagination of the Victorian Chapter adjudication committee, and [the] portrayal of Darwin’s discoveries and the interpretation of this text, as a vivid travel memoir was full of wonder, imagination, emotion, and a considered degree of expression.”

Kobe has been invited back to conduct his composition at the annual Music At The Centre event in 2022.

Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program We are thrilled to announce that Breen House Athletics and House Chess Co-Captain, Laura (10B), and Mitre House Chess Co-Captain, Asher (10M) have been accepted into the University of Melbourne Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program – Class of 2023!

They were selected from 1,500 applicants, with their academic achievement and community involvement being the main contributing factors selection.

We are very proud of Laura and Asher on their amazing achievement, and can't wait to follow them on their journey.

Sport successes There have been a multitude of success stories in the Sports program over the past year. Considering a large portion of the year was spent indoors, we are very proud of our students for participating in and showing great triumph in the sporting arena. Some highlights from this year include: • Boys Winning 1st Football Geoffrey Ryan Cup • Girls winning inaugural Geoffrey Ryan Cup • 1st Boys Tennis winning our first ever 1st tennis premiership • Live stream of the night netball match • Moving ACS Swimming and Athletics to a twilight meet, huge success for students and parents.

Both finishing 3rd overall • Greatest participation rate ever at our House Cross Country The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 33

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Fun during the holidays St Michael’s Grammar School’s Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) has provided an engaging program for our students in the Junior School for many years.

The program offers a child-centred, interdisciplinary approach based on the Reggio Emilia philosophy. We have a warm and experienced team of educators and support staff, committed to delivering the best possible experience. The creative, engaging and varied activities are carefully planned to suit a broad range of interests.

In recent years, our Holiday Program has been reimagined and includes many exciting activities, focusing on creativity, movement, STEM, sport, music and sustainability projects.

Students also have the opportunity to participate in excursions including visits to the zoo or movie theatre.

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While many schools choose to outsource their OSHC program, St Michael’s recognises the value, and strength of the relationships between educators and children, so has opted to keep the program in-house.

If you would like to find out more about our program, visit stmichaels.vic.edu.au/out-of-school-care

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Lionel (2P) and Albert (1B) sorted cars into different colours.

Harry (PH) plays with a brain teaser.

Amelia (1B) and her colourful butterfly drawing.

Students preparing for the Movie Excursion Woody (PA) enjoying playtime.

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Year 4 and 5 Exodus In May and November respectively, our enthusiastic Year 4 and Year 5 students departed on their 3-day Exodus adventures. Students enjoyed many exciting activities including canoeing, lighthouse tours, estuary exploration, archery, orienteering, ropes courses and much more.

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Students teamed up for rafting activities.

A classic game of tug-o-war.

Students learn about different types of sea kelp.

Fun on the high ropes course.

Students camped out under the stars The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 35

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Developing deeper connections at Year 8 Exodus On Monday 10 May to Friday 14 May, our intrepid Year 8 students set off for an exciting Exodus, guided by the theme ‘Action and Reflection’.

St Michael’s Exodus programs are aimed at developing respect and responsibility for oneself, others, and the natural world. With this focus in mind, students travelled to the Murray River to undertake a journey based in canoeing and bushwalking. Each day, the students would walk or canoe from one campsite to their next destination.

Our Year 8 Exodus focused on skill-building, group problem solving, leadership and environmental action. During the program, students extended their skills in camping and bush craft, challenged their comfort zones through cycling and bushwalking, developed an appreciation of collaborative problem solving, utilised navigation skills, and prepared all the food for their meals.

Students were encouraged to reflect on the environments they encountered, discuss and explore their differences and 36 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

similarities, and reflect on how connected they felt to each location. In exploring and understanding their experiences, and practising ‘Leave No Trace’ principles, students were enabled to develop deeper connections with the natural environment.

After the fascinating week away, students participated in a range of activities once back at school, such as writing reflective Haiku poetry in their English classes.

Our Year 8 cohort can now look forward to the next step in our Outdoor Education sequence, our Year 9 Exodus, themed ‘Real Responsibility’.

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Students hiked between camp sites.

Activities were based along the Murray River.

Students were taught how to make a basic campfire.

Tents were set-up along the sand banks of the Murray River.

Students take some respite from the physical activities.

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Col Pearse wins Bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games Year 12 student, Cole Pearse, competed in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, in August of this year. Representing Australia on the men’s swimming team, Col was triumphant in the water, snapping up a Bronze Medal in the S10 Men's 100m butterfly event.

Col grew up on a dairy farm in Bamawm, near the town of Echuca approximately 200km north of Melbourne. After taking up competitive swimming in 2012, Col’s career has moved from strength to strength.

In 2016, Col was selected as a member of the Australian Paralympic Development Squad. In 2017, he recorded five new S10 national age records. In 2019, Col won four gold medals at the Hancock Prospecting Australian Age Swimming Championships and for the first time was selected for the Australian swim team. Col then competed at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships in London, where the then-16year-old won the bronze medal and broke the Oceania Record in the S10 men’s 100m butterfly. Col also achieved sixth place in the S10 men’s 100m backstroke and SM10 men’s 200m individual medley.

When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Victoria in March 2020, Col faced uncertainty in his training schedule, future swim meets, and whether the Tokyo Games would go ahead at all. However, Col met the challenges of the pandemic with creativity and passion.

Returning home to his family’s dairy farm, Col did what was necessary to keep training. With the help of his family and friends, Col turned the home carport into a gym, and their

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dam into a makeshift 50m pool. “We used steel fence posts on some wooden crates as the wall and created lane ropes by connecting some milk bottles together with hay string.” Col told the Victorian Institute of Sport.

With the creation of his new home gym and pool, Col worked virtually with his coaches in Melbourne to continue his training schedule, with his mum Teena picking up coaching duties at home.

Col showed incredible resilience and determination to get to the Tokyo Games, especially as he also completed his VCE in 2021.

“I’m spending over 20 hours a week with swimming commitments, and over 40 hours with school commitments,” Col told the VIS earlier this year. But with the support of his teachers, coaches, friends and family, Col was able to stay on top of his schoolwork and training and secured his wellearned Bronze Medal.

Photo credit: Delly Carr (AAP), Steve Huntley, Cameron Spencer (Getty Images).

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Col Pearse wins a Bronze medal in the Men's 100m Butterfly at the Tokyo Paralympics.

Col at his parents property in Bamawm Preparing for the Paralympics in the family dam.

Col's family cheering him on from their home.

Speedo Tokyo Swim Launch.

Col in his home gym.

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The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 39

Old Michaelian Olympians St Michael’s has a long history of Old Michaelians going on to achieve greatness on the world sporting stage.

This year, we had Year 12 student Col competing at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics in various swimming events and Tess Coady (OM 2018) has her eyes set firmly on the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

To celebrate the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, we pay tribute to those Old Michaelians who have competed in the Games.

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Marjorie McQuade SWIMMING | OLD MICHAELIAN 1950 | HUGHES Thirteen-year-old student Marjorie McQuade did not take long to rise to Olympic fame, quickly becoming dubbed as “Australia’s Olympic Baby” in the lead up to the 1948 Olympic Games. However, Marjorie was more than a swimmer to her St Michael’s peers – she was a long-standing member of the athletics, basketball and softball teams. Prior to her departure for London, Head Prefect Nance Meldrum presented Marjorie with a special gift on behalf of the School, including a leather writing case with her name stamped on it, a small gold cross, and a “prayer for Athletics”, written and illustrated by fellow student Anne Jolliffe; as well as a photograph album presented by staff.

In London, Marjorie swam in the 100 metres freestyle producing solid times, however, did not progress beyond the semi-final. Marjorie recounted her Olympic experience as 40 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

thrilling with the Opening Ceremony a particular highlight, describing a phrase that was displayed on the scoreboard, reading “The important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning, but taking part, for the essential thing in life is not so much conquering as fighting well.”

Marjorie went on to secure three gold medals at the 1950 British Empire Games (now known as the Commonwealth Games) in the freestyle, freestyle relay and medley relay. She followed this up with another stellar performance at the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki, again narrowly missing a place in the final of the 100-metre freestyle.

Marjorie’s accomplishments are honoured by the naming of two senior Speech Night Prizes: the Marjorie McQuade Prize for Unobtrusive and Unselfish Service; and the Marjorie McQuade Memorial Trophy for the Best All Round Year 10 Girl at Sport.

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Marjorie McQuade in her formal 1948 Olympic uniform Pictorial article of Marjorie’s life, in The Australasian Post, 15 July 1948

Faith Leech SWIMMING | OLD MICHAELIAN 1958 | KILBURN Not only is Faith our most decorated Old Michaelian with two Olympic medals to her name, her journey to becoming a swimmer was one of many challenges and adversity. As a child, she suffered from digestive and nutritional issues, as well as a double curvature of the back, which led her parents to try her in swimming. By 12 years old her parents were convinced of her potential, renting an apartment in Melbourne so that she could train more often with her coach, and so began her journey at St Michael’s.

In her intermediate year, she was selected for the 1956 Olympics and dubbed the ‘flying fish’ due to her 180cm high stature and slim build. Her spinal problems forced her to touch turn rather than flip turn, however this style did not impede her qualifying for the Games faster than Dawn Fraser or Lorraine Crapp. Ongoing digestive illness prevented her from training with the squad in Townsville, and she joined the team when they travelled to Melbourne preceding the Games.

Faith was also selected to model the ‘walking-out’ outfit for the Opening Ceremony. Faith made her debut in the 100-metre freestyle event, and her bronze medal rounded out the

Australian trifecta with Dawn Fraser and Lorraine Crapp, only separated by 0.8 of a second for gold and silver respectively.

Faith’s selection in the following 100-metre freestyle relay was not a given – as the youngest swimmer in the team, many believed it a controversial choice. And while Australia made a poor start, they managed to claw back the lead and secured gold over the USA in a world record time.

Faith’s retirement after the 1956 Games did not mean the end of her involvement with swimming or the Olympics – once she completed her schooling in 1957, she returned to her hometown of Bendigo, working in the family business, as well as teaching disabled and paraplegic children to swim and other volunteer work with the Olympic movement. In her honour, Bendigo named its aquatic facility the “Faith Leech Aquatic Centre”, and her Olympic medals reside there today.

In 1989, she turned the first sod for the construction of the School’s gymnasium and swimming pool. In 2006, the Trophy for the Best All Round Year 11 Girl at Sport was renamed as the Faith Leech Trophy for the Best All Round Year 11 Girl at Sport, in recognition for her life achievements in swimming.

Pictured: Faith Leech in her walking-out outfit for the Opening Ceremony at the 1956 Olympics, pictured with Sports Mistress Frances Newson who herself played Hockey at an international level, for Australia.

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Sean Wroe

Elena Galiabovitch

ATHLETICS | OLD MICHAELIAN 2003 | BREEN

SHOOTING | OLD MICHAELIAN 2007 | HUGHES

Sean’s athletic and leadership ability was demonstrated from at the outset during his schooling years – he was awarded Colours for Athletics and Soccer, and in his final year was Co-Vice Captain of Breen House and Co-Captain of Athletics.

He led the St Michael's Athletics Team to victory in the Association of Co-educational Schools Athletics Carnival, when the St Michael's Team won the overall boys, girls and combined trophies for the first time. An outstanding 400m track and field sprinter, Sean gained 6th place in the final of the 2004 World Junior Championships. He went on to compete in the 2006 Commonwealth Games, where he was a semi-finalist in the 400m Individual and a Gold Medallist in the 4 x 400m Relay. He qualified for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, placing 21st in the 400m and 6th in the 4 x 400m relay.

Sean went onto to compete in multiple Championships and Commonwealth Games, setting a Commonwealth Record in 2010 in the 400 metre.

Prior to Elena starting at St Michael’s, her family made the harrowing journey around the world, migrating from Russia to Australia in 1994. Elena started at St Michael’s in Grade 6, and almost immediately was recognised as having a brilliant mind.

She was a stellar team member in the St Michael’s Grade 6 Mathematical Olympiad for Primary Schools team, achieving a top 10% result. She was also a team member of the Grade 6 Future Problem Solving team, and the only Grade 6 student to receive a High Distinction in the Australian Mathematics Competition. In her senior years, she continued to achieve annual recognition across a variety of subjects, culminating in leadership roles such as Co-Captain of Hughes, Captain of Chess and Prefect.

Despite no longer competing at an elite level, Sean’s singlemindedness developed as an athlete has continued to serve him as he pursues a successful career following a Double Degree in Business/Arts (Japanese) at Swinburne University, managing his own finance broking business. Sean commented in a recent interview with Athletics Australia, “When I wake up, going to work doesn’t feel like work for me – it just feels like being an athlete and doing whatever I need to get done to succeed that day. My obsession and my focus that I had as an elite athlete has transferred directly into my life now.”

Photo credit: Getty Images.

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Elena claimed her first international title in 2015 when she won the women’s 25m Pistol event at the Oceania Championships. Elena also found success at the Commonwealth Games in 2018 where she claimed a silver medal in the women’s 25m Pistol and a bronze in the women’s 10m Air Pistol.

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, Elena competed in the women’s 10m Air Pistol and the 25m Pistol events. In the women’s 10m Air Pistol, Elena finished 27th with 569 points – just eight points off qualifying for the final.

Aside from representing Australia in shooting, Elena is a doctor who has been working in a Melbourne hospital and conducting COVID tests at clinics, all while completing her master’s degree to become a urological surgeon.

Photo credit: Dan Peled (Shutterstock).

Brodie Summers MOGUL SKIING | OLD MICHAELIAN 2011 | MITRE During Brodie’s senior years at St Michael’s, he was a consistent team member across many sports including basketball, inter-house sport competition and of course, the St Michael’s Interschools Snowsports team. As a member of Team Buller Riders throughout his teenage years, his strong results in the 2013/2014 season secured him a place at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. He narrowly missed a place in the Final by 0.1 of a point.

The following years were disrupted with injury, and while he made the Australian team for the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, a ruptured ACL forced him out of the event.

However, he made a full comeback in the 2018/2019 season achieving two World Cup finals performances.

Brodie has continued to go from strength to strength, finishing the 2020/2021 season ranked fifth in the world.

With the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic team selection fast approaching, Brodie has never been better placed to secure a position on the Australian Olympic Team, for a third Olympic campaign.

Photo credit: OWIA/Chris Hocking

Boarding school in the fifties Grouped and fenced and gated at the school – we found our way, with caution, soon immersed in sport and competition, where one rule bewildered us: the last shall be the first.¹ The Sisters, in their habits dip and glide – kindly women, robed with warm intent.

Concessions and exemptions were denied.

We lived the rules and learned what austere meant.

Freedom lost, lights out! but hidden deep – a future, shining bright far, far away.

A book beneath the blankets, helped us keep our dreams, that morphed as scope with each new day.

The rights we had as dreamers, to explore another world, with literature our guide.

We thrived and grew, the simple truths we wore, bore faint resemblance to the truths outside.

Now aged, reflection makes the memories feel that friendships lined our days with fields of green; how rich, how unexpected the appeal: now first, now last, now everything between.

Matthew 20:16 Helene Castles nee Nelson

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

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Ongoing connections with the Old Michaelian community Our vibrant community of Old Michaelians provides support to students in their endeavours, participates in events, and nurtures a sense of belonging across the entire school.

We thank Lucy Grant (OM 2020) Co-Captain of the School and a high-scoring Theatre Studies student in Year 12, for returning to the school to run a performance analysis workshop for our VCE Theatre Studies students as part of the written examination preparation period.

Along with the several Old Michaelians who returned to assist with the Performing Arts in 2021 in Semester 2, we thank both Tristan Buesst and Harry Nguyen who performed in the Orchestra accompanying the Virtuoso Concert at Deakin Edge. Both Harry and Tristan also participated in the Shrek Orchestra and despite the performances never quite coming to fruition, a significant live performance of a speciallyscripted Shrek medley is planned to conclude the Speech Night broadcast on Thursday 9 December.

Several Old Michaelians have worked as coaches for our St Michael’s sporting teams and we thank them for keeping our teams motivated in such a challenging time: Mima Golias (OM 2019)

Charlotte Ritman (OM 2019)

Evie Craig (OM 2019)

Cleo Tuckfield-Smith (OM 2020)

Georgia Byrne (OM 2020)

Juliette Bruni (OM 2020)

Tara Flynn (OM 2020)

Luke Bennett (OM 2016)

Tom Hill (OM 2020)

Winnie Laing (OM 2020)

James Pearce (OM 2020)

Joshua Young (OM 2019)

Monty Kristovskis (OM 2018)

Ben Djiba (OM 2018)

Nicholas Hoare (OM 2019)

Flynn Whitebrook (OM 2020)

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Every year, the Old Michaelian Association Committee offers support to the entire Year 12 cohort. The OMAC provides treats for Year 12 students to give them a boost them as they progress through their studies and head into exams. In what has been a particularly challenging year, the Old Michaelian Association Committee contributed House themed iced cookies for inclusion in the Year 12 care packages with the message “Good Luck Year 12” stamped into the icing and packaged with a sticker with the message “All the best from the Old Michaelian Association”.

In lieu of placing study sweets in the Year 12 room at the beginning of their SWOTVAC period, the OMAC also contributed individual bags of lollies which were handed out to all Year 12 students at the conclusion of each of the English exams.

It is fantastic to see our Old Michaelian community having such a strong presence at the School and we are looking forward to welcoming many more Old Michaelians back to the St Michael’s campus after the postponement and cancellation of so many events in 2021.

If you are interested in learning more about the OMAC please contact oldmichaeliancommittee@stmichaels.vic.edu.au

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Winnie Laing (OM 2020) and Mima Golias (OM 2019) with the 1st XVI Girls Football team

Breaking Up wins at Sydney Web Fest Congratulations to Jessica Sofarnos and Claudia Nankervis (both OM 2012), whose film Breaking Up won Best Short Film at the Sydney Web Fest in October!

The Sydney Web Fest is an international web series festival dedicated to the celebration of online content and the talents of those who make it happen.

“Off the back of this film, Claudia and I have recently launched our Production Company, SUZY, which is exciting, and we are in development with other series, films, and content as we speak,” Jessica said.

All the best to Jessica and Claudia with SUZY! Old Michaelians involved in Breaking Up: Jessica Sofarnos, Writer, Director and Actor (2012) Claudia Nankervis, Producer and Director (2012) Max Walter, Director of Photography (2012) Zelman Cressey-Gladwin, Actor (2013) Lola Nankervis, Unit Manager (2016) Louis Walter, First Assistant Camera (2016) Hannah Campbell, Sound Mix (2012) Alex Walton, Editor (2011) Owen Grieve, Composer (2013)

Jessica and Claudia’s film Breaking Up looks at the final complex, emotional minutes of a young couple’s imminent demise.

During their time at St Michael’s, Jessica and Claudia were closely involved in the Performing Arts and made valuable connections with their peers in this space.

“We are proud to say that we had roughly 90% St Michael’s alumni as a part of our crew,” Jessica said. “The School played a very pivotal role in our development as creatives, so a big thank you to St Michael’s for always nurturing this part of us and allowing us to explore and grow through the abundance of opportunities while we were students.”

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B E Y O N D T H E S C H O O L G AT E S

From International Relations to Intensive Care – Sam Orton (OM 2006) Sam Orton (OM 2006) looks back on his experience at St Michael’s with very fond memories. During his time at School, Sam had many Co-curricular highlights, including being involved with many different Sports teams, participating in School Productions, and leading his peers as Prefect and Co-Captain of the School.

“I really enjoyed school. I felt really lucky to be supported by the School community and to have made lifelong friends with a group of diverse students who went on to do a whole range of things.”

After School, Sam wasn’t entirely sure where his university studies would take him. “I enjoyed Biology and Chemistry in school, but I thought I’d end up in International Relations, so I did an Arts and Science double degree at Melbourne University”. It wasn’t until Sam picked up an Anatomy subject as an Elective that he found his true passion for medicine, going on to complete a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).

Sam now works in the Intensive Care Ward at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney, where he lives with his partner and two children. Speaking about what he loves most about his specialisation, Sam says “I love the physiology–the nuts and bolts of how the body works. As I get older, I become more interested in the bigger picture and getting to know people and their families. Each healthcare system exists only in the community that it serves, and it’s a privilege to be a part of an experience with other people that is so unique to every individual who passes through those doors.”

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When reflecting on his experience at St Michael's, Sam is grateful to the School for preparing him and his peers to enter further study and the workforce by allowing students to experience and appreciate a variety of different subjects and Co-curricular activities. “I believe that any potential career path or life goal is accessible from St Michael's. My friends are all over the world doing so many different things.

Whether it’s sport, drama, outdoor activities; the School gives you so many different opportunities to figure out what it is that you want to do when you leave. It was because of this environment that I was happy to take a punt on medicine as I could see that the world was bigger than just one subject.”

To the current cohort of students at St Michael’s, Sam offers some great advice. “You don’t need to know what you want to do by the end of Year 12. For me, it was really daunting, and I worried a lot about what I was going to do when I left. I found that all the doors opened up once I stopped worrying. One thing that I would say though, is that the current cohort will be a lot more resilient than I was when I was at school. I have a lot of respect for students who have been going through school over the last 2 years.”

We thank Sam for his kind and encouraging words, and congratulate him on his fantastic work in the field of Intensive Care Medicine.

Forging a path between space and law – Thomas Graham (OM 2014) After graduating from St Michael's, Thomas Graham (OM 2014) completed a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Physics. From there, he was accepted into a Master of Science program within the university's astrophysics group but decided to pursue a Juris Doctor instead. It was this change of course that enabled Thomas to couple his passion for science and law.

After studying Physics and gaining some insights into the workings of academic departments, Thomas identified that there was a need for more funding and organisational support, from both government and corporations. Thomas realised that he could make a real impact by combining his passion for science with law, to become an advocate for the scientific community.

“I applied to complete a Juris Doctor at the University of Melbourne, and by framing it as a way to contribute to the scientific community, it became a very attractive choice.”

During Thomas’s first Semester of his law studies, he came across an expression of interest to join the legal and regulatory team at the Melbourne Space Program. “It seemed too good to be true as it perfectly combined my interest in space and in law.”

Thomas joined the Melbourne Space Program in 2018 as a Regulatory Officer. He then moved into the role of Company Secretary, and finally, Thomas transitioned into the role of Business Sustainability Manager, where he managed the Melbourne Space Program’s legal team.

During his time with the Program, Thomas’s achievements included contributing significantly to the launch of ACRUX-1 (Melbourne Space Program's first student-built nanosatellite), designing link budgets, ensuring that the Program met all legal and compliance obligations, and organising a successful

virtual panel about Space Law in conjunction with the Science and Technology Law Association.

Now, Thomas is a PhD student at Swinburne University of Technology, where he focuses on creating a framework that allows for the responsible and ethical implementation of artificial intelligence in outer space.

The research project that Thomas is undertaking called ‘Responsible AI in Space’, is a collaboration between space scientists, law and policy experts, government, the space industry and those involved in the field of artificial intelligence.

“The work that we are doing will enable industry to develop and deploy artificial intelligence in space in a responsible manner that will maximise the benefits of these systems whilst minimising any unintended negative consequences.”

With data becoming more sophisticated, this also presents ethical and legal dilemmas that need to be addressed.

“Earth observation imagery from satellites has improved dramatically with high resolution images offering superior detail. The opportunity for an individual’s privacy to be violated by incredibly high resolution, AI processed, earth observation data, looking into their backyard or through a skylight, is just one example of how technological advancements in space may have ethical implications.”

For St Michael’s students interested in pursuing a career in the space industry, Thomas recommends finding opportunities and making connections in the field.

Thomas believes in the importance of young people having their voices heard in the space sector, and he recommends organisations like the Melbourne Space Program which champion the ideas of young people in a collaborative and engaging space.

We wish Thomas all the best for an exciting career ahead in the rapidly developing field of space.

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Elena Galiabovitch (OM 2007) honoured at Tokyo Olympics Australian pistol shooter and Old Michaelian Elena Galiabovitch (OM 2007) was one of just six athletes chosen by the International Olympic Committee to carry the Olympic flag at the Games’ opening ceremony in Tokyo.

Along with being some of the world’s best athletes, there was something else Elena had in common with the other flagbearers selected for this honour. Since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in early 2020, each of these individuals had been working on the medical frontline, fighting for their communities.

Aside from representing Australia in shooting, Elena is a doctor who has been working night shifts in a Melbourne hospital and conducting swab tests at drive-through testing clinics, all while completing her master’s degree to become a urological surgeon.

"Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I would ever help carry the Olympic flag at an Opening Ceremony.

I'm humbled and honoured," Galiabovitch told the Australian Olympic Team.

"I am privileged to be representing the Australian Olympic Team, the 15-member Australian Shooting team, and all frontline medical workers who have done such a magnificent job under very difficult circumstances over the past 18 months," Galiabovitch told the Australian Olympic Team.

bearer at the Opening Ceremony,” Ian said to the Australian Olympic Team.

The moment was particularly poignant for Elena’s family, especially her father Vladimir, who as the Australian Pistol coach, has proudly trained Elena through many accomplishments including the Rio Olympics in 2016 and the Tokyo Games.

Elena claimed her first international title in 2015 when she won the 25m Pistol event at the Oceania Championships.

Elena also found success at the Commonwealth Games in 2018 where she claimed a silver medal in the 25m Pistol and a bronze in the 10m Air Pistol.

In Tokyo, Elena competed in the 10m Air Pistol and the 25m Pistol events. In the 10m air pistol event, Elena finished 27th with 569 points - just eight points off qualifying for the final.

“I came unstuck a bit in the last series, maybe overthinking a few things. But overall, I am pleased with my efforts and how I conducted myself well and I was true to my values. I really enjoyed the experience, the atmosphere and the environment and being part of that competition,” Elena told the Australian Olympic Team.

Ian Chesterman, Australian Chef de Mission of the Games, could not think of a better candidate for this honour.

In the 25m pistol, Elena demonstrated some fantastic shooting, climbing from 31st position after the precision event to 11th place after the rapid-fire event, only narrowly missing out on the final.

"Elena has contributed to the health and welfare of Australians and Australian communities through the pandemic while training for the Tokyo Olympics. We are proud to have her in this Olympic team and applaud her recognition in being a flag

Congratulations to Elena for her career accomplishments, sporting achievements, and for living her values. We wish Elena all the best in her new chapter as a urological surgeon, which will commence in February 2022.

Photo credit: The Australian Olympic Committee

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Reunions Reunions have long represented a significant opportunity for our Old Michaelians to reconnect and strengthen friendships as adults. This has never been more important, during a time when in-person contact has been so limited.

In July, our Class of 2020 reunited for an event that combined the best parts of the cancelled Year 12 Formal and a Reunion, allowing the newest Old Michaelians the chance to celebrate an important rite of passage to culminate their secondary schooling. Held at Leonda by the Yarra, the committee made up of Old Michaelians 2020, helped produce a ‘luxe-vibe’ galastyle event that was attended by 156 Old Michaelians and their guests. Many of the guests too were past students of the School, reinforcing the close connection amongst the cohort beyond the school gates. Staff were also invited to attend the first part of the event, and many commented that the relaxed format worked well. Special contributions to the event included a photobooth and light up “SMGS” letters provided by the Old Michaelian Association, and an incredible amount of event décor provided by past parent Maria Pannozzo, transforming the ballroom into a glamourous event.

“As the Class of 2020, we were all beyond appreciative of being able to finally come together to celebrate and reunite 6 months after the year’s end. Nothing was spared in our enthusiasm, and we were so thankful to have squeezed in this much anticipated event, only hours before lockdown. It was meant to be!”

– Tara Flynn and Tom Hill, Old Michaelians 2020 With the easing of restrictions, the Old Michaelian Association was able to reschedule two reunions – the Class of 2016 5 Year Reunion and the Class of 2011 10 Year Reunion. It was wonderful to see so many Old Michaelians reconnect and reminisce about their journeys beyond St Michael's.

CONNECT The Old Michaelians Facebook page is a lively group where past staff, students and parents can keep in touch and stay up to date with Old Michaelian news and events. Additionally, SMGS Generation is a networking platform exclusively for the St Michael’s community – this allows Old Michaelians to connect with each other professionally, for mentoring, and for opportunities to hear about upcoming School activities such as careers nights. Links to download PDFs of The Michaelian are also found on SMGS Generation.

St Michael’s Old Michaelians SMGS Generation

UPCOMING REUNIONS In 2022, we are holding a number of rescheduled and combined reunions to catch up on postponements. We invite Old Michaelians from the following peer years to join us as we renew old friendships, develop community networks, discover changes that have taken place at St Michael’s and share in life experiences. Old Michaelians will be sent an invitation by email and post, and are encouraged to update their details to ensure they receive these: stmichaels.vic.edu.au/update-your-details/ Classes of 2005 & 2006 15 Year Reunion Classes of 2000 & 2001 20 Year Reunion Classes of 1995 & 1996 25 Year Reunion Class of 1991

30 Year Reunion

Class of 2017

5 Year Reunion

Class of 2012

10 Year Reunion

Class of 2007

15 Year Reunion

Class of 1986

35 Year Reunion

Class of 2002

20 Year Reunion

Class of 1997

25 Year Reunion

Class of 1992

30 Year Reunion

Class of 1987

35 Year Reunion The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 49

The PCA – Fostering connections The Parent Community Association (PCA) continued with its mission to build a constructive and positive relationship between families and the School by fostering a vibrant St Michael’s community, despite the ongoing challenges that were faced. This was evidenced by the activities that continued throughout Semester 2, and the many end of year events organised by the Year Level Representatives to re-connect families as we emerged from a lengthy period of lockdown.

The PCA Virtual ‘Chill and Chat’ sessions held on 15 October, provided a wonderful opportunity for new and current parents to connect during Melbourne’s lockdown utilising the successful format of virtual chat rooms held online. Five simultaneous virtual chat rooms were arranged (Kindergarten, Prep-2, Years 3-6, Years 7-9 and Years 10-12) for a Friday afternoon 30-minute timeslot. Many parents joined each of the rooms and there was a real buzz and genuine connection felt by all.

Whilst events such as the Father’s Day lunch and the Trivia Night were unable to go ahead despite the many efforts to reschedule, The PCA proceeded with its annual ‘Staff and Teachers Thank You’ morning tea held in gratitude for all staff 50 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

and their tireless dedication, creativity and enthusiasm shown throughout the year. Although the event was held to mark World Teachers’ Day (scheduled in Australia for 29 October), it was held over until 8 November to celebrate the return of all staff and teachers back to on campus learning. The theme for the event was “Thank you for giving us the zest of learning” with citrus themed decorations and morning tea picnic boxes gifted to the staff. Over 1000 lemons were squeezed by the PCA volunteer team to make lemon cordial which was also gifted in individual bottles along with a voucher for a hot drink at Dolly’s Cafe. The Kitchen Garden Working Bee was also unable to go ahead, instead a mini newsletter for garden enthusiasts was launched. Please contact Mary Wood on pcavpevents@stmichaels.vic.edu.au if you would like to be included on the distribution list.

The PCA has continued throughout the year with its Grant process and was very pleased to announce the approval of two grants. A major grant for an outdoor chess set for the Junior School was approved as well as an ad hoc grant for matched funding by the PCA for the next Giving Day to be held in 2022. This grant will help to build the Scholarship fund to

provide opportunities for students who otherwise may not be able to start, or continue, their St Michael’s journey.

Anouk Hulme and her team of volunteers worked tirelessly to re-establish the Second-Hand Uniform service with the first sale post-lockdown, being held outdoors to minimise the spread of COVID-19. Many new families were assisted to fulfill their uniform requirements prior to starting on campus and old uniforms were donated to the Year 12s for the creation of their Valedictory Day celebration costumes. The Second-Hand Uniform Service continues to provide high quality uniforms at a price much lower than retail and supports the School’s commitment to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Senior students were also able to make purchases on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons at the new SHU Pod located behind Hewison House. We farewell Anouk Hulme with immense gratitude for the years of tireless effort and passion she has put into her role as the PCA Leader of Second-Hand Uniforms. Anouk is handing the reins over to Amy Rose and we thank Amy for taking on this very important role to serve the School Community. If you are interested in volunteering with the dedicated SHU team to assist during the week with the processing of uniforms to prepare them for sale, please email secondhanduniforms@stmichaels.vic.edu.au.

To show support for the challenging two years that the Class of 2021 Valedictorians have faced, the School assembled a gift box for each graduating student, as it did in 2020. This gift box comprised many elements from the School, the Old Michaelian Association, a design from a Year 12 student (printed onto a tote bag), and a gift from the student body. The PCA contributed a delicious Hot Chocolate Bomb for every student.

at 31 October and also reported on the outcome of the grant process. Terrie Jones, Head of the School provided a School update and warmly thanked all of the PCA volunteers for their service to the School Community. Farai Mufuka, Director of Business provided an update on the Japanese Garden which is to be partly funded by a PCA grant and Ros Casey, Director of Enrolments, Engagement, Communications & Advancement provided an engaging update on Philanthropy at St Michael’s including the St George's redevelopment project, Giving Day and the Seven Sisters Society.

The PCA concluded the year by hosting a Q&A room at the Parent Information Evening held online. The evening was specifically designed for the benefit of parents of Prep, Year 7, and all new students (K-12), commencing in 2022. The PCA hosts were very pleased to have the opportunity to meet with many new parents and provide information relating to PCA events and the role the PCA plays in supporting home-school partnerships.

Planning is underway for 2022 and the PCA is looking forward to a wonderful year of Community Events and Activities. It is with great excitement that the PCA looks forward to the biennial Community Festival, which was unable to go ahead in 2020. There are many opportunities to get involved and volunteer with the PCA as a Year Level Representative, a PCA Committee member or just for a particular event. Parents are encouraged to explore all opportunities on SchoL and to register interest by emailing Tamsin Jowett, PCA President pcapresident@stmichaels.vic.edu.au.

At the PCA Annual General Meeting (AGM), the PCA Executive Team members all provided an annual summary of their areas of responsibility and expressed their gratitude to all PCA Volunteers and School staff who had supported the efforts of the PCA throughout 2021. PCA Committee members Liz Chandler, Jacquie Astill, Bindya Bedi and PCA Executive Team member Kate Kloss were farewelled with gratitude expressed for their unwavering support, passion and time devoted to the PCA. The PCA Treasurer reported a net profit of $22.5K as The Crest Issue 6 2021 | 51

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R V O L U N T E E R S

Amy Rose New to the PCA, Amy Rose recently put her hand up to take over the role of Second-Hand Uniform (SHU) Leader from 2022. Amy’s association with the School has been ongoing for many years, with her stepchildren, Madeline (OM 2010) and Ben (OM 2012), both attending St Michael’s. Amy has fond memories and a strong connection to the School community.

For Amy, the most appealing part of volunteering is the relationships that are made. “It connects me to other likeminded parents who enjoy giving back to their community.

Volunteering at SHU also excites me because it is such a fantastic resource for parents to purchase good quality preloved items at reduced prices, and support environmental sustainability initiatives.”

Amy believes that the PCA is the mortar holding all the bricks in place, quietly going about getting small jobs done that enable big differences to be made that benefit the entire St Michael's community.

“Children need to see that it takes a diverse set of people, and ideas, to bring about change. Any amount of input big or small is welcome and beneficial. The network of Year Level Reps enables the PCA to reach every family so that everyone

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feels them to feel part of the St Michael's community. “The friendly, nurturing and inclusive spirit that filters down from the top and permeates every small part of the St Michael's community, makes you feel part of something special!”

Amy recognises the value that she too gets from giving her time and giving back to something bigger than herself.

“I see myself volunteering for a long time. I started young, helping neighbours with their babies and delivering Christmas presents to Nursing Homes, and then in my teenage years, I volunteered at the local hospital delivering flowers to patients.

While studying at university, I volunteered with the Multiple Births Association, which was really rewarding too.

Outside of St Michael's, Amy keeps busy as a part-time nurse in the Special Care Nursery and also enjoys knitting and crocheting blankets and hats for premature babies.”

We're thrilled to have Amy as part of our parent community and look forward to having her lead the SHU service in 2022.

Helen Tzatzakis Helen Tzatzakis has been involved with the PCA for the better part of the last 6 years. She is currently a Year Level Rep for Year 7 but has also volunteered her time across multiple year levels during her time at St Michael's.

An important role within the PCA, Year Level Reps are often the first point of contact for new parents to the School.

“I really enjoy the role of Year Level Rep. I love making sure that new parents get all the right information. Starting at a new school can be very daunting, and we know exactly how to navigate our way through all the information, so passing on this knowledge is certainly of value to newcomers."

Helen believes that the PCA is one of the most important support networks at the School and a great way to stay connected. “The PCA brings all the parents and the wider community together. It’s great to collaborate as part of a team and have different opinions put forward. Everyone’s ideas are welcome and this helps the community evolve and makes the School better in the long-term."

Beyond providing a service to the School, it's also a great way to meet people and make new friends. "I met one of my best friends at a 4-Year-Old Kindergarten PCA welcome party, so I love that sense of the community.”

Helen is an Old Michaelian and is thrilled that her children now attend St Michael’s to continue the tradition and experience the unique community that exists within the School. “It’s lovely to walk through the front gates and feel like you genuinely know the School inside out.

Helen believes that volunteering is an important way of contributing to society, and it’s something that she is passionate about. “I had so many great opportunities growing up, so it’s my way of saying thank you and helping to give someone else those same opportunities. My father volunteered for a whole range of Greek regional committees, and I hope that volunteering is something that my children continue to do too."

Outside of volunteering as a Year Level Rep, Helen has a keen interest in outdoor activities and has also volunteered on previous School excursions. Helen also has a passion for sport and has been on the committee for the South Melbourne Women’s Soccer Club for the past 5 years as the Treasurer and also volunteers in the canteen.

We are grateful to Helen for her ongoing support and commitment to the St Michael's community.

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Vale – Dr Janette Gordon-Clark (26 April 1936 – 27 October 2021) ‘ … There is no one in the St Michael’s story who has given so unstintingly of their life over such a lengthy period…’

The St Michael’s community is deeply saddened by the loss of Old Michaelian, Dr Janette (Jan) Gordon-Clark, one of the heroes of St Michael’s Grammar School. Jan embodied a zest for life and learning that was an inspiration to many generations of staff, students, parents and Old Michaelians.

Jan began her astonishing 81-year connection with the School when she joined St Michael’s as a student in 1940 at the age of three. In her final year, 1952, Jan was a School Prefect, Editor of The Michaelian, Captain of her House Debating Team, and Dux of the School. She then went on to study at the University of Melbourne.

In 1973, Jan was a foundation member of the School Council (now the Board of Directors) and served on the School’s governing body for an unbroken 40 years. During that time, she guided St Michael’s through a remarkable transformation from a small single-sex girls’ school to a much larger coeducational school.

She was a very worthy recipient of the St Michael and All Angels Medal in 2014. The medal is bestowed on members of the St Michael’s community who have left a legacy of their connection with the School. The citation accompanying the medal presented to Jan at Speech Night reads, ‘There is no one in the St Michael’s story who has given so unstintingly of their life over such a lengthy period to ensure that we continue to prosper as a learning community. We who enjoy St Michael’s

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today owe much to Jan’s generosity, energy, foresight and commitment.’

While she gave so much to St Michael’s, raising her family was the main the focus of Jan’s life. Her long and happy marriage to Dr Henry Gordon-Clark (deceased 2014) produced four children, Helen (OM 1979), Matthew (OM 1984), Hugh (OM 1985) and Sophie (OM 1987), each of whom, in the words of Hugh, did their best to make their parents’ lives difficult. Jan and Henry, however, were a constant and loving presence who supported their children in all their different interests.

Having raised her family Jan returned to study, first completing a Master of Arts at Monash University and then a Doctorate, the subject of which was early Melbourne Theatre.

Jan was farewelled at a service at St. Peter’s Eastern Hill, where she had been a member of the parish for more than 50 years. Bishop David Farrer, a long-time friend of Jan’s, in delivering the Homily, quoted Robert Louis Stevenson ‘… A person is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent people and the love of children; who has filled their niche and accomplished their task; who leaves the world better than they found it…’

There is no doubt that Jan left the world, and this School, a better place.

Vale – Mr Allan Pizzey (19 October 1939 – 28 November 2021) 'His experience and expertise in school governance, knowledge of the construction industry, and almost inexhaustible energy were all gifts he generously shared in the service of the School' Mr Alan Pizzey AM, LFAIB, FAIM, FAICD was a member of the Board of Directors at St Michael’s Grammar School for 16 years from 1995 to 2010, spending a decade of his tenure as Chairman. A former Chairman of the Board of Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School, Mr Pizzey joined the St Michael’s Board, at the invitation of then Headmaster, Mr ARC Hewison.

As Chairman, Mr Pizzey oversaw the restructure of Board governance at the School. He also guided the School through a decade of growth and innovation, especially in the physical redevelopment of the campus. The Community of the Sisters of the Church Learning Centre and the Allan Pizzey Building are two landmark structures on the School site which he played a major role in developing from conception to completion. The Chapel of St Michael and All Angels, the refurbishment of the Frances Newson Oval, and the beautification of the centre of the campus with the construction of the Coleman Walk, are further examples of his impact on the campus. The Allan Pizzey Building – the Junior School Centre, is a wonderful expression of both Allan, and his wife, Ann’s commitment to education and, in particular, to that of younger children.

Mr Pizzey also had oversight of the School’s considerable ongoing investment in enhancing quality and excellence in the St Michael’s staff. During his chairmanship, St Michael’s financial position was also strengthened.

When Mr Pizzey was retiring from his role as Chairman in 2010 he reflected on some of the strengths of the School, and

one of these was, ‘the overlay of the School’s founders, the Community of the Sisters of the Church. Over all my years at St Michael’s I’ve striven to increase the presence of the Sisters in the life of the School. I see our unique connection with the Sisters as a great strength; they impact upon our values and they are great role models for our students – strong women, who are dedicated to their role and to their philosophy.’

Educated at Ivanhoe Grammar School, where he was School Captain in 1957, Mr Pizzey joined the national building company E.A. Watts after leaving school. He remained with the company through several changes of ownership and became a Director of Fletcher Watts Group in 1980. In 1983 he formed his own company, Pizzey Noble Pty Ltd, a project management company specialising in the construction and building industry.

A Fellow and Past President of the Australian Institute of Building, Mr Pizzey was also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Directors.

St Michael’s owes much to Mr Pizzey and his unswerving commitment to, and passion for, the School during his time on the Board. His experience and expertise in school governance, knowledge of the construction industry, and almost inexhaustible energy were all gifts he generously shared in the service of the School.

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Building our community One of the many aspects of St Michael’s history that became clear during 2020, our 125th anniversary year, was the School’s proud tradition of philanthropy. The School has greatly benefitted from philanthropic gifts since its very first days. The initial purchase of Marlton House was funded through a philanthropic gift. In later years, The Quad was the subject of a blockbuster fundraising campaign enthusiastically led by Sister Scholastica, and the Gymnasium was funded through a campaign conducted by parents. It was therefore fitting that in our Anniversary year, the School continued the tradition, and we conducted our first ever Giving Day to support an expansion of the Scholarship program.

Scholarship program so that we can continue to help as many students as possible have the same opportunities.

It is the intention to grow the philanthropy program in the coming years to support key projects of the School and a philanthropy strategy has been developed with two main aims:

In recent years the Performing Arts program has been based in the heritage-listed St George’s Church. This much-loved building has a rich history as a vibrant hub for the community.

However, over time the building has degraded making it increasingly unfit for the School’s purpose and putting at risk its distinctive heritage features.

• to establish a sustainable scholarships program through planned growth of the St Michael’s Scholarship Fund, and • to assist the School to maintain, and continually improve, the facilities and infrastructure expected of a leading independent school to provide the best learning environment for our students.

For more than 100 years the St Michael’s Scholarship program has helped provide students with the benefit of a high-quality education that has enabled them to explore their talents, unlock their potential and given them the skills and knowledge to change the world. Our ambition is to expand our 56 | The Crest Issue 6 2021

In 2022, our next Giving Day will encourage our extended community to help us achieve our goal of expanding the number of Scholarships we offer each year.

The redevelopment of St George’s Church is the second major philanthropy project for which we will be seeking support in 2022.

The School is justifiably proud of its Performing Arts program which both nurtures students of outstanding talent and encourages all students to discover the joy of creativity.

We are therefore delighted that, in 2022, St George’s will be redeveloped to house state-of-the-art performance facilities, including a 400-seat auditorium. The design will leave intact the original fabric of the building and preserve the many heritage features, so that on completion the Church will be a striking blend of tradition and innovation. Read more about this exciting project on page 11.

In the coming months we look forward to telling you more about these important projects and how you can be involved.

St Michael’s Grammar School 25 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182 Australia Telephone: +61 3 8530 3200 community@stmichaels.vic.edu.au stmichaels.vic.edu.au CRICOS Provider 00345G

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