Saints Alive - June 2023

HEAD OF THE RIVER:

MAKING HISTORY!

FROM OUR NEW PRINCIPAL

NOTEWORTHY SUCCESS AT CHORAL NIGHT

SWIMMING CARNIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

3

Saints Alive is a biannual publication for the St Peter’s Girls’ School community.

Submissions are welcome for each edition.

Community Relations Manager Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn 1986) mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

JUNE 8 6 12 10 16

Archivist Anne Daniell (nee Crisp, Kennion 1969) adaniell@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

From Our New Principal

It is an absolute pleasure to be writing to you as the new Principal of this esteemed School. I’d like to begin by acknowledging the outstanding leadership of Ms Julia Shea during the past nine years to position St Peter’s Girls as a world-class provider of girls’ education, a school steeped in tradition yet also equipped with an innovative, adaptive and future-focused approach which harnesses advances in educational knowledge and practice.

I leapt at the opportunity to join Saints Girls as I am drawn to lead schools which have a long history of recognising the value of a sound education and a school community that honours its founders. In 1894, dedicated women from the Community of the Sisters of the Church sailed to a settlement they knew little about on the other side of the world to open a school for girls. It is hard to imagine what life was

like then, but I know how incredibly courageous these women must have been to take on such a challenge. They arrived with very few possessions, but what they brought to our shores was priceless: a vision for quality girls’ education.

The Sisters epitomised the values of courage, creativity and compassion, values that continue to drive our School today. In the programs we deliver, the support we offer and the culture we embody at Saints Girls, we enact and model those compelling values in a way that would make the Sisters proud. Our School’s vision of ‘inspiring women of character and influence, fostering the next generation of leaders’, is so powerful. I am deeply committed to developing character, nurturing students to have inquiring minds and to be agents for change in our increasingly complex world.

The development of authentic relationships is central to my leadership

Another special feature of Saints Girls is our one School on the one campus, ELC to Year 12. I bring experience and expertise to each part of our School and there is a great joy that comes with being involved in a student’s growth from two years of age to 18 and beyond. Saints Girls is a school grounded in Christian ideals, with a committed staff, committed families and a committed community that blends the strengths of almost 130 years of tradition while embracing change to best serve the needs of our girls and their families.

I passionately believe that schools are about the three Rs: Relationships, Relationships, Relationships. Hence, the development of authentic relationships is central to my leadership. As your new Principal of Saints Girls, getting to know our families, staff and members of our wider School community, and enabling you all to get to know me, is a priority. With this in mind, I’d like to share a little about my family. I am married to Mal. He has served as a secondary teacher for many years, having taught in various schools across South Australia and most recently in Melbourne. We have a 19 year old daughter, Georgia, who finished Year 12 last year. She decided to remain in Melbourne, and in somewhat of a role reversal, her parents have moved out of home! And the last member of my family is Beanz, our beloved 11 year old Golden Retriever.

I am extremely grateful that I have now been given the opportunity to extend my circle, as a proud and devoted member of the Saints Girls’ community. I look forward to supporting you with my leadership experience and expertise in a committed school with vision and purpose.

CHERYLYN SKEWES PRINCIPAL

Commissioning of Our New Principal

It was a landmark chapter in our School’s history in March with the Commissioning of our new Principal Cherylyn Skewes. Led by Anglican Archbishop Geoffrey Smith in our School Chapel, the service was a superb celebration featuring rituals, song and prayer. Attendees included James Stevens MP, Jack Batty MP, Burnside Mayor Anne Monceaux (nee Harrington, Kennion 1966), past Principals Douglas Stott and Diane Nicholls OAM, Board members past and present, current and former staff, Old Scholars, heads of Anglican schools, Cherylyn’s family and friends, and of course, our amazing students.

We congratulate Cherylyn and can’t wait to see what she will achieve as Principal of St Peter’s Girls’ School.

LEFT: FLUTE ENSEMBLE; ABOVE: HEAD PREFECT ELLIE HUMPHREY

FROM

CASSANDRA MOORE (NEE JEWELL, PATTESON 1978), CHERYLYN SKEWES AND VICTORIA MOORE (PATTESON 2009); CHERYLYN SKEWES, ARCHBISHOP OF ADELAIDE GEOFFREY SMITH AND OUR BOARD CHAIR JEREMY SCHULTZ; SISTER LINDA MARY AND CHERYLYN SKEWES; TREVOR TEMPLE, KARYN JONES, MAL QUORN-SMITH, CHERYLYN SKEWES AND JAN FISHER

TOP:

HISTORIC HEAD OF THE RIVER SUCCESS

The SA Schools’ Head of the River was contested in March, with our rowers achieving historic results. 2023 saw a return to normal, being the first time since 2019 with no spectator restrictions. As such, it was fantastic to have so many of our staff and students at West Lakes to cheer on our rowers. Head of the River is all about school pride, and every member of our community should be proud of the collegiality and

compassion that was on show as our students – rowers and non-rowers alike – supported one another.

Throughout the day, it was wonderful to watch all of our crews represent the School and achieve success. To my thinking, ‘success’ is highly contextual and is not always synonymous with winning or an outcome. It takes a lot of courage to challenge oneself,

to redefine what you think you are capable of and to truly be your best. Well done to all of our crews for their efforts. Of course, there are times when being your best also means being the best. These moments are special; they're moments to be savoured. Two of our crews made history this year: our Year 7/8 A crew won the Anna Tree Cup and our First IV claimed the Diana Medlin Cup.

This is the first time that Saints Girls has won any senior division at Head of the River. These two cups will live proudly at the School for the next year, a testament to our girls’ hard work, dedication and courage.

7/8 A Crew – Charlotte Catchpole (Cox), Isabella Huf, Baye Reynolds, Zalia Valmorbida and Cleo Connor; coached by Jamie Becker

First IV – Stella Rasheed (Cox), Pearl Richards, Georgina Wakeham, Georgia Mallick, Georgie Owler; coached by Brynley Millward and Charlotte Parker (Kennion 2022)

Thank you again to all those who attended to support our rowers. Our deepest gratitude also goes to the Friends of Rowing for their tireless work in setting up for the day and making the Saints Girls’ marquee a festive environment for our community. Lastly, well done again to our students on their efforts, and on their historic results!

BRYNLEY MILLWARD DIRECTOR OF ROWING

SWIMMING CARNIVAL 2023

Swimming Carnival 2023 exploded off the blocks in February, with girls in Years 4 to 12 going stroke-forstroke across the four Houses at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre.

As always, determination, team spirit and participation featured throughout the day, with impressive performances in the serious races and colourful entertainment in the novelty events including the annual crowd favourite, the Crocodile Relay!

House spirit was in overdrive, the Year 12 costumes lived up to all the hype and it was terrific to see our girls cheering on from the stands. By the end of proceedings with all results tallied, the 2023 overall champions were announced: SELWYN!

McGILL SHIELD

1st Selwyn (3370)

2nd Kilburn (3339)

3rd Kennion (3209)

4th Patteson (2915)

JUNIOR SCHOOL

1st Patteson (1086)

2nd Selwyn (1080)

3rd Kennion (1072)

4th Kilburn (994)

MIDDLE SCHOOL

1st Kilburn (1287)

2nd Selwyn (1190)

3rd Patteson (937)

4th Kennion (917)

SENIOR SCHOOL

1st Kennion (1200)

2nd Selwyn (1100)

3rd Kilburn (1058)

4th Patteson (912)

CHORAL NIGHT 2023

Choral Night 2023 was electric blue yet again as KENNION claimed the coveted shield for the third year running!

Well done to all of our girls who took part across the four Houses in what was a truly epic showcase of song and dance at Influencers Church, Paradise in March.

It was also fantastic to welcome back 2022 Head Prefect and Head Chorister Sophie Norman (Patteson 2022) (pictured left) to hear her powerhouse vocals once more.

Social Media Old Scholar Connects at Stonyfell

To celebrate International Women’s Day in March, our Prefects led a special Assembly with a focus on the representation of women in the media. We were thrilled to welcome Old Scholar Natalie Koutsikas (Kilburn 2009) as our guest speaker who delivered an engaging speech about her experiences in social media marketing as well as providing sound advice for our girls in this space.

Highlights included how Natalie’s career in real estate was where her interest in social media, marketing trends and their ability to influence behaviours firmly took hold. Implementing a content marketing and social media strategy

saw her recognised as Adelaide’s most influential agent on social media for two years running, and in turn triggered a career shift to social media marketing. Having worked for some of Adelaide’s most innovative brands, Sweat and Ryderwear, and leading the way for influencer marketing nationally, Natalie launched Digitale social media and creative in 2019. Working with businesses big and small to grow from the ground up, Digitale utilises a deep understanding of community and connection, backed by strong strategy and data, and Natalie has swiftly cemented Digitale’s position as a leading social media agency in Adelaide.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE ASSEMBLY

It was wonderful to celebrate some of our newest Old Scholars and current students for their outstanding achievements across SACE and IB at our Academic Excellence Assembly which was held in early February.

Dux of the School Rune Chi Zhao (Selwyn 2022) and Dux of IB Xingzi Zhang (Kilburn 2022) shared sage advice, so too our guest speaker, Old Scholar and former Dux Hannah Vine Hall (Kennion 2017).

With a Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering and a Bachelor of Mathematics (double major in Applied Mathematics and Statistics), Hannah currently works as a tutor in Systems Engineering at the University of Adelaide and as a Space Communicator at the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Lot 14. Such an inspiring occasion for all present!

Class of 2022

Tradition of Success

St Peter’s Girls’ School has been delivering excellence in girls’ education for almost 130 years, inspiring women of character and influence for generations.

Our Class of 2022 reinforced our tradition of success across the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, achieving incredible results.

Special mention goes to 2022 Deputy Head Prefect Rune Chi Zhao who recorded the top ATAR, a perfect score of 99.95, with Merits in Chemistry, Specialist Mathematics, Physics and Legal Studies alongside previous Merits in Biology, Mathematical Methods, Modern History and Research Project. She was also among a select group of students to receive the Governor of South Australia Commendation –Excellence Award. Rune Chi accepted a prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship at the Australian National University in Canberra to study a Bachelor of Philosophy – Science (PhB), paving the way for direct entry into ANU’s Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (MChD).

Across our SACE cohort, more than half of our students achieved an ATAR of 90+, placing them in the top 10% of the country. Indeed, the percentage of

Stage 2 grades in the ‘A’ band was a phenomenal 69%, eclipsing the State figure of 31%.

In the IB, the School’s median score was 41 out of 45 (combined rank/ATAR equivalent 98.25+). Close to 60% of our IB cohort earned a Distinction (IB score 40+), led by Xingzi Zhang who received an IB score of 44 (combined rank/ ATAR equivalent 99.75) with Merits in English, Psychology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Theory of Knowledge/ Extended Essay.

IB Merits were also achieved in Spanish, Economics, Global Politics and

Philosophy. Our IB students excelled across all disciplines with ‘A’ grade highlights including English (86%), Languages (64%), Humanities (91%), Sciences (90%) and Arts (100%).

Our SACE students flourished across all subject areas, including:

• 100% ‘A’ grades in Drama, Music Performance - Ensemble, Dance and Visual Arts - Art

• English Literary Studies - 85% ‘A’ grades (State figure: 40%)

• Physical Education - 80% ‘A’ grades (State figure: 28%)

WE CONGRATULATE OUR GRADUATES ON ACHIEVING:

93.80 90.65

TOP ATAR

MEDIAN ATAR

MERIT AWARDS

ACROSS 27 SUBJECTS

38 EARLY OFFERS TO 2023 SACE ART SHOW EXHIBITORS

UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE & FLINDERS UNIVERSITY

99.95 GOVERNOR OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA COMMENDATION EXCELLENCE AWARD 1

• Business Innovation - 76% ‘A’ grades (State figure: 32%)

• Chemistry - 67% ‘A’ grades (State figure: 33%)

• Research Project - 90% ‘A’ grades (State figure: 38%)

38 of our Year 12 students secured early entry to the University of Adelaide and Flinders University after applying for pathway programs based on their Year 11 grades.

In addition to SACE and IB results, so many of our girls are all-rounders, striving for success and growth across

57%

5 OF ALL IB SCORES 40+ (DISTINCTION)

Rune Chi Zhao was among the outstanding Class of 2022 graduates to share her plans and advice:

the board. In 2022, Saints Girls excelled in sport, The Arts, public speaking and speciality academic domains, delivering incredible performances whilst attracting local and national accolades.

These achievements reflect the diligence and dedication of our students, supported by first-class educators and mentors. With an extensive network of professional connections, our bespoke wellbeing, careers and leadership programs, and transformational building works including our custom-built Science Centre, there has never been a better time to be at Saints Girls.

What are your plans for 2023? In 2023, I will be studying a Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) at the Australian National University which is a Science degree with a research focus. While I’m aiming to try a bit of every science, I’d like to focus on medical research as I’m planning to study medicine after my degree. I’ll be staying at Bruce Hall and I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the community and university life. What does being a Saints Girl mean to you now that you’re an Old Scholar? I think no matter where I go and what I do, I’ll always be a Saints Girl. As I look back on my Saints’ experience as a new Old Scholar, I’ve realised just how lucky I was to attend Saints Girls and how special my high school years were. There is such a strong connection between Saints Girls – both current students and Old Scholars – and so, to me, being a Saints Girl is being part of this incredible community, in which we are encouraged and empowered to fulfil our potential.

What advice do you have for our current girls? My piece of advice is to think about the person that you want to be and to have your actions reflect that. Make sure you keep your values close to your heart, remember what’s most important to you and try to do something meaningful with the time that you have.

GIRLS IN TECH IGNITES YOUNG MINDS

Girls in Tech 2023 was bigger and better than ever with 250 students from local schools converging on our campus in March for a day of discoveries led by experts from dozens of STEM organisations.

This event aims to ignite a STEM spark in young girls, shining a light on career paths of the future. It introduces a broad array of digital technologies and STEM-related projects to students, enabling them to explore a range of hands-on innovations and digital applications.

It is vital that students see current issues as opportunities for innovation, and that they are encouraged to develop a creative outlook and a solution-focused mindset. Spending time with the creators and supporters of cutting-edge technologies is a valuable step towards this. Well done to all involved on another tech-tacular expo!

SUMMER INTERHOUSE

Term 1 ended on a high at Stonyfell as our Years 7 to 12 students went head-to-head during our annual Summer Interhouse sports carnival. House pride shone brightly throughout the competition, with KENNION taking out the overall winners' title!

Our Year 3 to 6 students also joined the Interhouse action with contests in Volleyball and Cricket. Teamwork, high energy and sportsmanship prevailed as the girls embraced healthy House competition.

From Our School Chaplain

Our Chapel Services are an important time where students and staff come to reflect in the midst of a busy school schedule. This term, we have been considering the 'I am' statements of Jesus found in John’s Gospel. These rich statements have allowed us to explore many aspects of who Jesus is and what he came to do. One of my personal favourites is, 'I am the bread of life' found in John Chapter 6. This imagery is so rich and teaches us that Jesus is both the giver and sustainer of life.

A highlight of Term 1 was the Commissioning Service of Ms Cherylyn Skewes. It was a delight to welcome Archbishop of Adelaide Geoffrey Smith to our School. The service brought the whole School together to celebrate this new chapter in our School’s rich history.

Alongside our Chapel program, I have the privilege to teach Philosophy and Religion as part of the School’s curriculum. This subject sees our girls engage in a wide variety of beliefs, ask questions and explore many deeper questions in a warm and encouraging environment. This term, our Year 7s have explored Mark’s Gospel with a focus on how different people responded to Jesus in Mark’s account

of Jesus’ life. Our Year 8s have been studying Judaism (one of the five major world religions) with a focus on modern Judaism. Our Year 9s looked at the early church in the book of Acts and compared that to how churches operate today. The students explored ideas such as prayer, meeting together and social justice.

Our Chapel has had various upgrades over the past year. New light fittings have been installed and the celling has been given a fresh paint job. However, the highlight has been the upgrade to the garden beds in front of the Chapel. A lovely stone-walled garden filled with roses provides a stunning setting as you walk down to the Chapel.

HOUSE SHIELDS

Fiona Godfrey OAM

Former Principal Fiona Godfrey was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia 2023 in the Australia Day Honours for service to primary and secondary education.

As I reflect on the term, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness to all his people. I give thanks to God for the many blessings he has given to us here at St Peter’s Girls.

Fiona was Principal at Saints Girls from 2008 to 2013. During that time, she steered the building of the Arts Centre amidst a roll out of federal grants for school infrastructure, oversaw the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) to broaden educational choice and instigated the relaunch of Rowing as a sport at our School. Fiona went on to become Principal of Radford College in Canberra.

We congratulate Fiona on this well-deserved recognition and are pleased that she continues to maintain strong ties with Saints Girls.

THOMAS BASSETT SCHOOL CHAPLAIN

OUR NEW DIRECTOR OF ELC

At the start of the year, we warmly welcomed our new Director of ELC, Liz Schembri. Liz is a highly-skilled teacher, successful leader and advocate for early childhood education. Her career includes teaching appointments at St Andrew’s School, Emmaus Catholic College and Holy Family Catholic School in South Australia, in

Upon her return to Australia, Liz spent two years teaching at St Francis de Sales College at Mount Barker before leading the team as a Professional Pedagogy Coach, mentoring and working alongside staff to implement inquiry learning into classroom practice. She then led the building and development of the new Alive Catholic

addition to spending 10 years at the Beijing City International School where she trained in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) and was involved in the development of the School’s new Early Childhood Centre.

Early Learning Centre and was appointed as the Head of Early Learning, Alive (Mount Barker).

Liz says, ‘It has been an honour to join St Peter’s Girls’ School as Director of ELC.

It’s been wonderful to see the children in their learning spaces excited and eager to investigate, explore and connect

It’s been wonderful to see the children in their learning spaces excited and eager to investigate, explore and connect with those around them. In my new role, I have had the opportunity to experience first-hand the atmosphere of warmth and inclusion that is present through interactions with staff and the careful planning that goes into creating the learning environments.

It is a privilege to be a part of each child’s learning journey. I am thrilled to be working in partnership with families and our amazing staff across the School, and I look forward to nurturing our thriving community.’

Family Fun at ELC Twilight Picnic

It was lovely to spend time with our youngest learners and their families at our ELC Twilight Family Picnic on Chiverton Lawns in March. Connection and belonging are vital to supporting a flourishing community and we look forward to continuing to grow this throughout 2023 and beyond. Thank you to all who joined us and our Friends of the ELC (FOELC) for the work they undertook in preparing for this event.

Community Unity at Drinks on the Lawns

In early Term 1, we were delighted to hold our parent Welcome Drinks on Chiverton Lawns. We were incredibly fortunate to have such beautiful weather for the event, and we couldn’t have asked for a better turnout. The energy and enthusiasm that everyone brought made for a fantastic start to the school year. We were thrilled to see both familiar and new faces, and it was a great opportunity to come together. Our Principal Cherylyn Skewes enjoyed meeting parents and getting to know our community in such a wonderful social setting.

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend. We look forward to more opportunities to connect throughout the year.

JESS GERAGHTY DIRECTOR OF ENROLMENTS, MARKETING AND ADVANCEMENT

DAD’S NIGHT ON THE GREEN

An event that continues to go from strength to strength on the Saints Girls’ social sporting calendar is our Dad’s Night on the Green at Tranmere Bowling Club. In March, more than 60 dads enjoyed a fun-filled evening of bowling, refreshments, BBQ dinner and ‘Lucky Squares’.

This is a great opportunity for dads across the year levels to connect in a social (yet a little competitive!) evening of bowling. Barefoot bowling made a comeback this year, with many dads kicking off their shoes to demonstrate their ability to multitask socialising and bowling. It was fantastic to see so many dads contributing to our ‘Lucky Squares’ fundraiser.

We will continue to offer Dad’s Night on the Green as part of the Friends of Sport calendar, and we look forward to seeing more year level teams out there next year.

KATIE LUCAS FRIENDS OF SPORT

FROM TOP: LEKO NOVAKOVIC, DANIEL RENSBURG-PHILLIPS, JOHN MARSDEN AND JORDAN SINGH; JED RICHARDS, DAVID PENLEY, RICHARD LISLE AND FRASER WARRICK

From the President

Much has been discussed recently about the importance of maintaining the wonderful traditions at Saints Girls and, being a current parent, I was fortunate to attend Choral Night, an event that is truly steeped in tradition. It began in 1935 as an Interhouse singing competition, becoming an annual event from 1944. In 1957, it changed from an afternoon to an evening event and one that could be attended by the wider School community.

Choral Night is always cited as being a favourite amongst our Old Scholars, and with good reason. House spirit was, as usual, on display with each House wanting to take home the coveted shield at the end of the night but, more importantly, there was an amazing camaraderie between the girls, irrespective of their House, as they clapped and cheered the incredible dance moves of the Year 12s and found inspiration in the captivating performance of 2022 Head Prefect and Head Chorister Sophie Norman (Patteson 2022).

It’s this camaraderie and connection upon which the OSA was founded, and as such, we continue to provide opportunities for our Old Scholars to reconnect with one another and the School via Reunions, special events, sporting teams and by assisting current students through mentoring and careers advice.

Once again, we have a full calendar of events on offer for our Old Scholars and I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the year.

BEC FARQUHAR (SELWYN 1988) OSA PRESIDENT

ANNUAL OLD SCHOLARS’

REUNION DINNER & ST PETERSTIDE CELEBRATION

The evening promises to be a special gathering of our Old Scholar community

Friday 30 June 2023

Dinner

7pm at Adelaide Pavilion, Corner of South Terrace and Peacock Road, Adelaide

$65 per person. Includes welcome drinks, canapés and a two-course meal. Drinks available at the bar.

RSVP by Friday 23 June 2023 via trybooking.com/CEQYH

Telephone bookings via 8334 2239

School Tour Meet at Arts Centre Foyer at 10.30am

St Peterstide Eucharist School Chapel at 11.45am

Please direct enquiries to the Community Relations Office via (08) 8334 2239 or mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

OLD SCHOLARS’ WATER POLO

Our Old Scholars’ Water Polo team took to the pool in March to play against the Open A Water Polo girls in the prestigious Lynne Spry Cup held at St Peter’s College.

This was a tough game with the Old Scholars’ team featuring experienced, strong and talented players. Scores were tied 5 - 5 at full-time, triggering

a penalty shootout where the Open As prevailed!

Thank you to our students and Old Scholars for participating in the match and to the spectators who attended. Finally, thanks to Old Scholar and staff member Lynne Spry (Selwyn 1974) who has always been the biggest supporter of our Water Polo players at Saints Girls.

OLD SCHOLARS’

TOUCH FOOTBALL

The Old Scholars’ Touch Football team has had a very enjoyable summer 22/23 season. Games were played on Thursday nights in the City Touch Association on the Greenhill Road parklands. We had 17 Old Scholars play for the team, mostly 2020 and 2021 graduates, and were fortunate to have some current Year 10 and 12 students fill in for us when needed.

Our match play and tactics improved phenomenally from game to game and resulted in plenty of tries scored by a number of players. We very much enjoyed the social side to the season as well, having team

meals at The Feathers after our early games.

We are always looking for new members to join us and we hope to assemble a second team in the future.

OLIVIA GOLDSMITH (KENNION 2020) BELLE BLACK (PATTESON 2020)

BACK : MAGGIE BAILEY (SELWYN 2020), MILLIE WILKIN (KILBURN 2020), STEPHANIE SMALLS (PATTESON 2021), POPPIE GOLDSMITH (KENNION 2021), HOLLY CARDONE (KILBURN 2021)

FRONT: ELLIE ANDERSON (PATTESON 2020), OLIVIA GOLDSMITH (KENNION 2020), BELLE BLACK (PATTESON 2020), PHOEBE BLACK (CURRENT STUDENT)

OPEN A WATER POLO PLAYERS AND OLD SCHOLAR PLAYERS COMPETE FOR THE LYNNE SPRY CUP

SAVE THE DATE

INTERSTATE REUNIONS

Sydney Reunion

Saturday 24 June 2023 at 12pm

Q Dining, Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

61 Macquarie Street, East Circular Quay, Sydney

$70 per person (includes a two-course meal and welcome drink)

RSVP by Friday 16 June via trybooking.com/CEQXL

Canberra Reunion

Saturday 24 June 2023 at 12pm

Hellenic Club

1 Matilda Street, Woden

A la carte menu - pay as you go

RSVP by Friday 16 June via trybooking.com/CEQXL

MELBOURNE OLD SCHOLARS REUNITE

The OSA Melbourne Reunion was held on a Saturday afternoon in February at the Malvern Hotel, providing an opportunity for alumni across various years to catch up. This new event on the OSA Event Program was a fabulous success and it was wonderful to see so many Saints Girls together!

Friends of the Founders

Our annual Friends of the Founders’ Chapel Service and Light Lunch event was held in March with the theme of ‘Women in Sport’. Special guest Old Scholar Jessica Edwards (Patteson 2007) presented an engaging talk, sharing her inspiring journey in sport from school days to the present. Highlights include representing Australia in U23 Softball, playing in the London Cup for Gaelic Football, captaining North Adelaide SANFLW and Collingwood VFLW teams, and playing for Carlton in the AFLW. Jessica, who is still playing SANFLW, also keenly supports the pathways of younger players and was recently appointed as Development Coach of the U16 State team.

JESSICA EDWARDS (PATTESON 2007), CASSANDRA MOORE (NEE JEWELL, PATTESON 1978)

FROM TOP: MELBOURNE OLD SCHOLARS; 1984 ALUMNI

OSA AGM and Year Leaders' Event

The annual Old Scholars’ Association AGM and Year Leaders' Event was held on the evening of Tuesday 7 March in the Arts Centre Foyer where it was terrific to see many familiar faces and to welcome new ones. The official election of Office Bearers and Councillors took place, and we are delighted to share that Bec Farquhar (Selwyn 1988) was re-elected as

President, Tori Moore (Patteson 2009) as Vice President, Charlie Sykes (nee Aykroyd, Kennion 2010) as Treasurer and Anne Daniell (nee Crisp, Kennion 1969) as Secretary. Old Scholars enjoyed refreshments, canapés and the opportunity to meet our new Principal Cherylyn Skewes. All Old Scholars are most welcome to join the Council.

OSA COUNCIL MEMBERS 2023

PRESIDENT

Bec Farquhar (Selwyn 1988)

OFFICE BEARERS

Tori Moore (Patteson 2009) – Vice President

Charlie Sykes (nee Aykroyd, Kennion 2010) – Treasurer

Anne Daniell (nee Crisp, Kennion 1969) – Secretary

MEMBERS

Judith Bruce (nee Yeoman, Patteson 1962)

Jacqui Seppelt (nee Roll, Kilburn 1964)

Helen Cant (nee Geue, Selwyn 1965)

Rebecca Parry (Kilburn 1980)

Stephanie Bates (nee Hart, Kilburn 1994)

Richella-Lea Falland (Kennion 2003)

Tatum Gould (nee Hawley, Selwyn 2004)

Sinead O’Shaughnessy (Kilburn 2008)

Stephanie Hannah (Patteson 2010)

Hannah Butenko (Kilburn 2011)

Danielle Schultz (Selwyn 2011)

Ellen Mitten (Patteson 2013)

Isabella Farina (Kennion 2014)

Saumya Chanana (Patteson 2015)

Georgina Sarah (Kilburn 2016)

Lily Habel (Kennion 2017)

Bella Bernardi (Kennion 2020)

Saskia Jonats (Selwyn 2021)

Lara Wakeham (Patteson 2021)

OSA COUNCIL MEETINGS 2023

All regular OSA meetings are held in the Chiverton Boardroom at 5.45pm:

Tuesday 6 June

Tuesday 5 September

Tuesday 14 November

If you are interested in joining the Old Scholars’ Association Council or require further information, please contact Megan McCormack via mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or 8334 2239

FROM LEFT: CASSANDRA MOORE (NEE JEWELL, PATTESON 1978), REBECCA PARRY (KILBURN 1980), JENNY LAMB (NEE OLSSON, PATTESON 1979); PRINCIPAL CHERYLYN SKEWES, BEC FARQUHAR (SELWYN 1988); CHARLIE AYKROYD (NEE SYKES, KENNION 2010) AND BRIGITTEJANE RYAN (PATTESON 2001)

ABOVE: HELEN MCLEAY (NEE BARTLETT ,PATTESON 1974), ANNE DANIELL (NEE CRISP, KENNION 1969), JACQUI SEPPELT (NEE ROLL, KILBURN 1964) AND CHRISTINE THOMAS (NEE STEWART, SELWYN 1966)

Old Scholar News Online

Keep up to date with Old Scholar news and success stories across our social media platforms:

You can find us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/school/3769474

You can also stay connected with us on Facebook: facebook.com/SaintsGirlsOldScholars

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BELINDA CURYER (NEE BREACH, KENNION 1989), VICTORIA WILKIN (NEE TRELOAR, KILBURN 1990), RACHEL LINDNER (KENNION 1990) AND FIONA BESIR (NEE ZOGOPOULOS, KILBURN 2002); JESSICA BEARE (NEE BEATON, KENNION 2003) AND LUCY SEPPELT (KILBURN 2003); JACQUI SEPPELT (NEE ROLL, KILBURN 1964) AND CAROLINE SELLICK (NEE CRAVEN, PATTESON 1965)

Old Scholars' Morning Tea

In March, we were delighted to welcome our Old Scholar mums and grandmothers of current students for morning tea. It was lovely to see some familiar and new faces and reconnect as Old Scholars on the Food Tech Deck, celebrating family and the spirit of our community.

And we love to post Old Scholar updates on our School’s Instagram account: @stpetersgirlsschool

Vale Phyllis Coulter

If you have any Old Scholar news to share, please contact Megan McCormack via mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

To view our privacy policy, visit stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

We sadly learned that Phyllis Coulter passed away. Phyllis was on our staff from 1979 until 1991 and was a well-organised ‘Jill of all trades’ at Saints Girls. She assisted in various areas, for example in Textiles, in the Library, in the Office and with the Reception class. Our condolences go to Phyllis’s daughters, Debbie Burkin (Kennion 1984) and Gwendolynne Burkin (Kennion 1988).

ABOVE LEFT: KIM CHRISTO (NEE DOOLAND, KENNION 1999) AND SUSAN HUGHES (NEE ROEGER, KILBURN 1969); ABOVE RIGHT: SHARLENE THOMPSON (KENNION 1993), SUELLEN THOMPSON (NEE CARPENTER, KENNION 1970), AMANDA MARSCHALL (NEE HOWARD, KILBURN 1993) AND JOAN HOWARD

OLD SCHOLARS IN THE COMMUNITY

Old Scholar Science Success

Inspirational Old Scholar Dr Laura Eadie (Selwyn 2001) has been named among Australia’s top female scientists who are changing the world. Laura, a biomedical researcher at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), featured in a national News Corp article as a ‘lab-coat legend’:

“Dr Laura Eadie is researching more effective treatments for people with T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (T-ALL) by analysing their genes for any mutations that could be treated with drugs. She said while high-dose chemotherapy treatments were effective for most T-ALL patients, many experienced long term side effects. ‘My research will identify new and repurposed FDAapproved drugs targeted to a patient’s specific leukaemia, providing … hope for patients who have relapsed,’ Dr Eadie said.”

Congratulations Laura on this well-deserved national recognition!

Emma Sings on Sydney Harbour

What a thrill it was to see and hear Old Scholar and former Enchante member Emma Kavanagh (Kilburn 2014) (pictured left) deliver a sublime performance of Lakmé's 'Flower Duet' with soprano star Mirusia outside the Sydney Opera House for the Australia Day Live Concert. The pair also recorded the song as a single which is featured on Mirusia’s Duets album. Emma has collaborated with Mirusia in the past, having performed as the guest vocalist on the soprano's 2018 From the Heart Australian tour. In yet another string to her bow, Emma performed in Verdi's Messa da Requiem as part of the Adelaide Festival in March.

PHOTO SOURCE: NEWS CORP

Olympia Inspires Saints' Rowers

The SA Schools’ Head of the River was contested in March, with our rowers achieving historic results: our Year 7/8

A crew won the Anna Tree Cup and our First IV claimed the Diana Medlin Cup. This is the first time that Saints Girls has won any senior division at Head of the River. These two cups will live proudly at the School for the next year, a testament to our girls’ hard work, dedication and

Our Scholastica Society

A bequest is a gift specified in your Will. Through a bequest, you can make a gift that will contribute to the future of the School whilst still enjoying your assets during your lifetime.

When you become a member of the Scholastica Society, you join a special group of benefactors who have a deep affection for St Peter's Girls, and its future.

By making a bequest to St Peter's Girls, you give a gift that makes a difference beyond your lifetime. To ensure confidentiality, please arrange a time to speak with out Director of Advancement Jesseca Geraghty via 8334 2200 or email foundation@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au

courage. We were delighted to welcome Old Scholar Olympia Aldersey (Kennion 2011) as guest speaker to our Head of the River Dinner to address our guests as well as present the medals and awards to our winning crews. Fittingly, our First IV – Stella Rasheed (Cox), Pearl Richards, Georgina Wakeham, Georgia Mallick and Georgie Owler – made history in the boat named in honour of Olympia.

Old Scholar Orthopaedic Award

Saumya Chanana (Patteson 2015) graduated from Medicine in 2021 before enjoying a career gap year. In 2023, she commenced an internship with the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network and started her role as a junior doctor.

Throughout her years at university, Saumya developed a passion for orthopaedics and had the opportunity to participate in elective rotations at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Gold Coast University Hospital and Robina Hospital. She saw cases ranging from simple fractures and elective joint replacements to multi-trauma patients, and found it rewarding to observe how surgery can result in tangible and functional outcomes for these patients.

In Australia, whilst approximately 50% of medical school graduates are female, roughly only 4% of orthopaedic surgeons are female. The AOA Orthopaedic Women’s Link aims to promote gender diversity and support women to pursue orthopaedics. Saumya was incredibly honoured to be named the winner in 2022 of the AOA OWL Essay and is looking forward to gaining more exposure in the field as she commences her clinical career this year.

GEORGIE OWLER AND OLYMPIA ALDERSEY

Former Staff Profile: Anne Ninnes (Kennion 1966)

When were you a staff member at Saints Girls?

I began teaching at Saints Girls in 1984 and retired in December 2013.

What subjects did you teach?

I initially worked in the Junior School teaching Years 4 and 5. I taught all subjects but always had a passion for English, poetry and public speaking. I engaged many year levels in the Junior Orator Competition and the Poetry Recital Competition, which included students from independent schools across Adelaide. I was also Head of Kennion House in the Junior School, which I enjoyed immensely as I have always been an eager member of Kennion House.

When the Middle School began in 2000, I became a Home Group Teacher for Year 7 and continued in this role until my retirement. I followed my passion for English, teaching Year 7 and 8 classes.

What co-curricular activities were you involved in at Saints?

I was involved in supervising and coaching in most sports, from Minkey to T-Ball, Netball, Basketball, Tennis and Softball, in the Junior School and Middle and Senior Schools. This was a wonderful way to get to know many girls across all year levels.

What have you been doing since leaving Saints Girls?

I have followed my passion for travel and have had some wonderful extended holidays in Europe, Asia and within Australia. I’ve also been happily engaged in dressmaking, for myself, my friends and, most importantly, for the School. I have assisted with costumes for the Senior Drama Production for several years, with various Dance presentations and, more recently, with the Year 5 Production. This has given me great joy, not only because my sewing is

something I enjoy, but also because it allows me to continue to have contact with the School and with the staff and the girls.

Who do you keep in touch with from Saints?

My time at the School was a fabulous time of my life. I made many friends from all areas of the community, many of whom I still have contact with. I continue to see some of the girls as I make and alter clothes for them, and I’ve even met up with some Old Scholars who now live in different states or overseas. Many of my friends are Former Staff members whom I see at School functions and on various lunch dates.

What was one of the key highlights of your time at Saints?

Saints Girls played such a significant role in my life and continues to give me great joy.

BIRTHS

Congratulations to Sasha Morris (nee McLean, Kennion 2006) and Rob Morris on the birth of their son Leo Albert Morris on 8 August 2022.

Congratulations to Tori Steyn (nee Risby, Selwyn 2007) and Louis Steyn on the birth of their son Albert (Albie) Johannes Steyn on 14 October 2022.

WEDDINGS

Belinda Rundell (Kennion 2008) married James Craig on 28 December 2022 at Longview Vineyard, Macclesfield. Lia van der Pennen (Selwyn 2008) was the Matron of Honour.

Charlotte Bew (Kilburn 2010) married Jack Forbes on 14 January 2023 at Mandalay House and Garden. Bridesmaids were (Pictured L to R) Emma Noblet (Patteson 2010), Stephanie Hansen (nee Hannah, Patteson 2010) and Nicola Kelly (nee Godfrey, Kennion 2010)

Aya Shahin (Patteson 2016) married Bassam Safieddine on 7 January 2023 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

ENGAGEMENTS

Rebecca Slimming (Kennion 2013) to Nathan Sexton in November 2022

Danielle Schultz (Selwyn 2011) to Ashwin Thomas in December 2022

A. CHARLOTTE BEW AND BRIDESMAIDS B. BELINDA RUNDELL AND BRIDESMAIDS C. DANIELLE SCHULTZ AND ASHWIN THOMAS D.BABY LEO MORRIS E. BABY ALBIE STEYN

F. CHARLOTTE BEW AND JACK FORBES G. AYA SHAHIN AND BASSAM SAFIEDDINE (PHOTO: LOST IN LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY)

A

DEATHS

Nikki Bowden (nee Reglar, Selwyn 1968)

Marilyn Gregory (nee Paterson, Kennion 1962)

Kennion 1962)

June Heath (nee Stevens, Kennion 1955)

June Heath (nee Stevens, Kennion 1955)

Jean Hudson (Former Staff)

Jean Hudson (Former Staff)

Phyllis Coulter (Former Staff)

Phyllis Coulter (Former Staff)

Barbara Dobie (nee Hartmann, Kennion 1955)

Vesta Williams (Patteson 1939)

Barbara Dobie (nee Hartmann, Kennion 1955)

Holly Beauchamp (nee Giessauf, Kilburn 2000)

Vesta Williams (Patteson 1939)

Holly Beauchamp (nee Giessauf, Kilburn 2000)

BEREAVEMENTS

Vanessa Stillwell (nee Ramsay, Kennion 2004) Mother

BEREAVEMENTS

Ginny Giorgio (nee Reglar, Selwyn 1970) Sister

Jenny Revell (nee Paterson, Kennion 1965) Sister

Vanessa Stillwell (nee Ramsay, Kennion 2004) Mother

Victoria Wilkin (nee Treloar, Kilburn 1990) Mother

Ginny Giorgio (nee Reglar, Selwyn 1970) Sister

Matilda Wilkin (Kilburn 2020) (current student) Grandmother

Alex O’Neill (Kilburn 2006) Mother

Jenny Revell (nee Paterson, Kennion 1965) Sister

Deborah Burkin (Kennion, 1984) Mother

Gwendolynne Burkin (Kennion, 1988) Mother

Victoria Wilkin (nee Treloar, Kilburn 1990) Mother

Millie Wilkin (Kilburn 2020)

Anne Jones (nee Hudson, Kilburn 1995) Mother

Grandmother

Jodie Falco (nee Wemyss, Patteson 1985) Father

Matilda Wilkin (current student)

Grandmother

Alex O’Neill (Kilburn 2006) Mother

Deborah Burkin (Kennion, 1984) Mother

Gwendolynne Burkin (Kennion, 1988) Mother

Anne Jones (nee Hudson, Kilburn 1995) Mother

Jodie Falco (nee Wemyss, Patteson 1985) Father

Can you help?

If you recognise anyone in this photo (1986 alumni), please contact School Archivist Anne Daniell via adaniell@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au (Anne is happy to email a scan of the photo for better viewing)

Historic Photos

Future King Charles III speaking to our students in 1979

We are immensely grateful to all the generous donors who have contributed to our School Foundation by making a tax-deductible donation. These donors made contributions between 1 September 2022 and 15 April 2023. Your support is greatly appreciated and makes a significant difference in the lives of our students.

Mr A Atkinson

Dr J S and Mrs E Badlani

Mr P and Mrs A Baker

Mr N and Dr M R Balogh

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Mr C and Dr A Barnes

Mrs M Barr

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Mr A and Mrs A Bhatt

Mr K R and Mrs K J Bigg

Mr C M H and Mrs C E Birdsey

Mr M Boase and Ms Z Yu

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Mr J and Mrs M Capobianco

Dr R F Casse

Mr C Chan and Mrs S Ng

Mr Y Chan and Ms L Ng

Mr W Chen

Mr B Chen and Miss H Zhou

Mr L and Mrs C Chen

Mr P Chen and Ms J Yang

Mr D Chessell and Dr J Arnold

Mr P Choi and Mrs Y Chan

Mr B. Chong

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Copyworld

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Mr M P and Mrs A L Dillon

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Mr A T and Mrs A T Doan

Mr S Dong and Mrs B Gong

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Dr S J Douglas and Ms E J Warhurst

Dr H J and Mrs C C Eaton

Mr R W W and Mrs S J Forby

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Dr M Kullegowda Kanigere and Dr R Chowdlu Vijaykumar

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Mr J Li and Mrs L Gao

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Mr J Ling and Mrs T Wang

Dr M Ling and Dr C Sam

Mr F Liu and Ms N Li

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Prof X Liu and Mrs B Tang

Dr G R Lowry and Dr C J Marlow

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Mr X Lu and Mrs S Yuan

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Mr B P and Mrs K N May

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Mr M and Mrs A M Mesisca

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Diane Nicholls

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Mr Y Ouyang and Ms M Xu

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Mr C Pan and Ms B Zhang

Dr J Park and Ms M Lee

Mr J Park and Mrs W Liu

Dr G R and Mrs D K Parker

Mr J Patrick and Dr J Chen

Dr S and Mrs H Perera

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Mr R Rezvani and Ms S S Khalili

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Mr T C and Mrs K J Richardson

Mr R R and Mrs A N Ridge

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