Plus Ultra | November 2021

Plus Ultra

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November 2021 | St Peters Lutheran College Magazine

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CONTENTS

Cover: Celebrating 75 years of SPOSA. For individual details on cover appearances, see page 46.

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Plus Ultra November 2021 incorporating SPOSA Bulletin Published by St Peters Lutheran College Editor / Designer Cassie Twemlow c.twemlow@stpeters.qld.edu.au Writers Cassie Twemlow, Kelsey Bricknell Photography Anthony Cox Advertising Enquiries Publications Office Telephone: 07 3377 6262 publications@stpeters.qld.edu.au St Peters Lutheran College CRICOS Provider: 00516E 66 Harts Road, Indooroopilly Qld 4068 Telephone: 07 3377 6222 reception@stpeters.qld.edu.au stpeters.qld.edu.au facebook.com/stpeterslutherancollege instagram.com/splc.official © 2021 St Peters Lutheran College SPOSA Office 66 Harts Road, Indooroopilly Qld 4068 Telephone: 07 3377 6592 sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au stpeters.qld.edu.au www.facebook.com/sposa45

Plus Ultra | November 2021

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS REGUL ARS

04 06 07

Head of College Ministry Letter from the Editor

AC ADEMIC

08 10 12 13

The future is in safe hands Introducing St Peters' Techgirls STEM collaboration - Years 4 and 7 Primary Years Programme Exhibition

AROUND C AMPUS

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15 16 18 20 22 24 26

It's always a good time to give back College life vs reality Staff Profile: Josh Bjelke-Petersen Goodbye Mr Schmidt Letters from Ironbark What do you value?

Springfield says farewell

THE ARTS

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St Peters You've Got Talent Performer of the Year In the spotlight

SPORT

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The Olympics and beyond Gymnasts defy gravity Diving deep with SPW Olympians The boy from Boonah

BOARDING

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NAIDOC Week 2021

SPOSA

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SPOSA President 75 Year Timeline Plus Ultra cover Reunion Weekend Leading the way in PNG: Dr Pamela Toliman Coming full circle Births, Deaths and Marriages

COMMUNIT Y AND EVENTS

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Mother Son Breakfast St Peters Sports Lunch 75 + 1 Anniversary Gala Ball SPOSA and P&F Trivia Night

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HEAD OF COLLEGE

INNOVATION AT ST PETERS TIM KOT ZUR

head of college

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nnovation is a key Strategic Pillar of the College’s new Strategic Intent 'Plus Ultra 2025'. The intent of this Pillar is to ‘foster a culture of Innovation that aligns with our Mission’.

of our culture. In the short term, we look to build a climate that supports managed risk-taking with appropriate structures, leadership, and rewards, and encourage sharing lessons learned from failures.

Innovation is part of the DNA of St Peters.

The decision to start a co-educational school in 1945 was, at the time, a bold, daring and innovative decision, and was the first of many innovative approaches and programs that have characterised a St Peters education. Computer Education, Middle Schooling, Human Relationship Education, Physical Education and Ironbark are all examples of innovations where St Peters led the State, and some cases the nation in terms of educational developments.

There is another side to this Strategic Pillar of Innovation – the explicit teaching of it.

One of our key Strategic Initiatives here is to ‘implement design thinking, innovation and enterprise skills and entrepreneurial learning within the curriculum’. The development of these skills and mindsets in our students is important because of the disruption we have seen, and will continue to see, in relation to the world of work. In order to thrive and flourish in today’s environment our students will require enterprise skills and entrepreneurial mindsets. We have already made good progress on this Strategic Initiative. In Year 10, instead of studying a traditional Business Studies course our students have the opportunity to take an Entrepreneur Class where, as a culmination of their learning, they get to pitch their ideas, products and prototypes to the community through market stalls at lunchtime. In Year 7, all our students undertake a unit known as ‘EthiCool’ where, in small groups, they have to develop a product or service that utilises technology in order to solve a health problem. As part of developing the product, the students have to develop a Marketing and Communications Plan in order to take it to market. To create an element of authenticity each group has to pitch their idea to an external panel ‘Shark Tank’ style.

Innovation is part of St Peters DNA because of our identity of being a Lutheran institution.

When we think of Martin Luther and the Reformation we tend to think that it was something that happened 500 years ago.

But that is not necessarily accurate. Luther always intended for the Reformation to be something that was ongoing. St Peters is part of a tradition that sees itself as always in a process of becoming, that is ever reforming or semper reformanda, as it would be expressed in Latin. Practicing being semper reformanda keeps St Peters flexible and nimble. It allows us to be a responsive institution, where form follows function, and to be bold in editing out structures and programs that have become stagnant and no longer pulse with mission.

Innovation is critical to the future of St Peters. In order for St Peters to be sustainable and remain at the forefront of education and flourish we must continue to embrace innovation. Those organisations that don’t innovate, that rest on their laurels, go the way of the dinosaur – think Kodak, think Nokia.

As part of this Strategic Pillar, in the long term we seek to create an environment where an innovative mindset becomes part

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More and more of our students are expressing a desire to become entrepreneurs upon graduation. They are also demonstrating a keen interest in social entrepreneurship—the practice of using entrepreneurial skills to solve social problems. We must respond to these calls by expanding our offerings in the field of entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship

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Pictured (clockwise from left): Year 7 'EthiCool' student presentations; 'EthiCool' panelists, teachers and Senior students; Year 10 Entrepreneur class lunchtime presentations; Students presenting to Mr Hurwood and Mrs Walker.

education isn't just about teaching our students how to make money or turn a profit. It's about empowering them to become agents of change and equipping them to solve problems; empathise with people who might not look like them; and pick themselves up after adversity.

It is important to note that creativity and innovation has a social component and requires adaptability, leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. Increasingly, today, the capacity to create and innovate is linked to the ability to connect with others and with a facility for communication and collaboration.

In pursuing this Strategic Intent the College is endeavouring to prepare our students for their future. To quote renowned author about human behaviour, Daniel Pink, ‘The future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind—creators and empathisers, pattern recognisers and meaning makers. These people …. will now reap society’s richest rewards and share its greatest joys’.

An outcome of our Strategic Intent 'Plus Ultra 2025' is that innovation should truly be a hallmark of St Peters and a St Peters education.

RYAN HARVIE McENERY CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

   

Individual Returns, Tax and Financial Accounting, Auditors, and Business Valuations

Phone us: 07 3870 2622 Email us: admin@rhmc.com.au

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REGULARS

O TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD The focus and invitation for establishing a 'new school' in Wartime.

PAUL SMITH

pastor

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ome years ago, I was travelling in England when I had the opportunity to explore the Imperial War Museum in London.

This is a museum that introduces people to the experience of the people of the United Kingdom during various wars and, of course, the Museum is careful not to glorify war.

A particular display that was in the middle of the Museum put my soul unexpectedly in an odd space. Within the Museum was a fully rebuilt two-storey London terraced cottage from the Second World War years (1940s).

The house was complete and showed all the signs of hardship from that era: basic items of furniture; an old valve radio that was playing war-time broadcasts; simple pots and pans; no fridge that we would recognise; and the windows taped shut in case of bombing. Looking at this rebuilt cottage was somewhat an emotional moment for me, because I realised that this house was exactly the kind of home that my mum had described from her childhood years.

My mum is an English migrant who came to Australia with her family from London after WWII. With her family she had endured the struggles and uncertainties of war-time.

My mum remembers how most day-today necessities were rationed: material for clothes, petrol, milk, eggs, cheese, tobacco, sugar – you name it. You had to line up for things and get your ration book 'stamped' according to how much you were allowed to have.

These images of war-time hardships are important to keep in mind when we consider the significance of the establishment of St Peters Lutheran College.

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Pictured: 1945 whole school photo.

The opening service for St Peters was Sunday 25 February, 1945. That date is very significant for those in attendance. Since 1939 the world had been at war. When St Peters was opened the war in Europe had no end in sight and the war in the Pacific was raging. When St Peters was established, rations still were the norm and people were living with daily uncertainty.

So, what do you tell the young people and their families establishing a new school in the middle of war time? At the Opening Service, on that February day in 1945, the celebration began with Psalm 34, as a word to guide us and inspire us with the promises of God’s gracious hand at work in our world, even during uncertain times. Psalm 34 was something of the 'charter' for our school, to begin and continue in God’s care.

At the heart of Psalm 34 is an invitation and promise: “O Taste and See that the Lord is Good.”

The words 'taste and see' are the call of the founders of St Peters for students to come and to learn at this school, of the gracious hand of God at work. We are invited to put your hand to the wheel and to be involved in seeking peace for the world in the name of God.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR C A SSIE T WEMLOW

editor

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fter a tumultuous 2020, the United Nations declared 2021 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. With COVID still a major topic of conversation, and contention, for some, and with states within Australia being in lockdown for nearly three-quarters of the year, it should be a relief to Queenslanders to have an element of freedom. That’s not to say that St Peters families haven’t suffered and struggled themselves. With borders closed, many families and friends haven’t seen loved ones for over a year – just ask some of the boarders!

In saying that, we need to count ourselves lucky. Lucky that we had only one short lockdown. Lucky that Queensland has had nowhere near the number of COVID cases as New South Wales and Victoria. Lucky that we have managed to get on with our College-life relatively unscathed.

What motivated this bold conviction and the establishment of this College, was the story of Jesus Christ that is revealed to us in the Old and New Testaments. God’s heart is fully revealed in the cross and resurrection. God’s loving purpose is to deal with sin and evil, to make us people of hope. The message declared at the foundation of St Peters was 'in Christ, God is for you'. This same message has been passed on to each generation of the St Peters community.

Back on that Sunday in 1945, the students were invited to consider how the Lord God was providing for them and would provide good things for them even during war time and uncertainty. Our founding student cohort had a similar experience of uncertainties as we are having in these times of COVID-19 and the invitation of Psalm 34 is just as relevant for us: “O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him.” Psalm 34:8 God bless you and your family.

Proof of this was yet more events going ahead this Semester. We were finally able to celebrate the postponed 2020 Anniversary Gala Ball plus regular Semester 2 occasions like Golf Day and new ones like the SPOSA and P&F Trivia Night. Not only internal events were celebrated. At long last our community got the opportunity to cheer on, albeit from the sidelines (or the PAC Auditorium), current and Old Scholars who represented Australia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Congratulations to Olympic representatives Ariarne Titmus, Abbey Harkin, Madison Wilson, Mollie O’Callaghan, Eve Thomas and Pita Taufatofua. We’re all incredibly proud of you.

Stay safe and healthy over the summer holidays and we look forward to seeing you in the new year. Seniors of 2021, I wish you all the best with your exam results and in the future. Peace (and trust) out.

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ACADEMIC

THE FUTURE IS IN SAFE HANDS From Future Problem Solving to Ethics Olympiads and the da Vinci Decathlon, Mrs Anni Gold has been busy guiding teams of Junior High and Senior School students thorough the hurdles and, sometimes baffling, questions asked of them at various competitions over the year.

ANNI GOLD

Gifted & Talented Coordinator

Future Problem Solving

Ethics Olympiad

hroughout this year, seven teams of students from Years 7 – 12 have been involved in working with Mrs Gold to train for the Future Problem Solving Competition.

The Ethics Olympiad is an opportunity for our Senior School and Junior High students to engage in interesting ethical discussions with students from schools across Australia.

Students read interesting and relevant ethical cases and practice using their skills in engaging in careful and critical ethical discourse (similar to the deep discussions that might occur around the family dinner table or in the car). They become familiar with the cases and the ethical dilemmas that they pose. On Training Days students interact and learn from professional philosophers and ethicists from universities across the US, Canada, UK, India, New Zealand, and Australia (a positive result of the flexibility required in recent times). In May, four Year 11 students, Felicia Lim, Melinda Herman, Lachie Bretherton-Scobie, and Brekken Meznarich (pictured facing page, middle and lower left) participated in the Senior School Ethics Olympiad Competition Day. They collaborated to prepare their ethical arguments well and impressed the judges with their knowledge of ethics, skills in ethical discussions, and fantastic teamwork, achieving fifth in the state and a Special Commendation.

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Future Problem Solving (FPS) is an international program encouraging high academic achieving students to solve global issues using critical and creative thinking skills. This year, we had seven teams across Junior High and Senior School and each Term the teams worked collaboratively to research, brainstorm, and analyse scenarios on the topics of Youth in Competitive Sport, Wearable Technologies, and Human Environmental Impact. It has been fascinating to listen as the students discussed how current and previous FPS issues, such as the spread of infectious diseases, have actually transpired and impacted us globally.

All teams worked incredibly hard this year to complete their team booklets and to implement feedback received from evaluators. Two of our teams were successful in qualifying for the National Finals held over to 15 and 16 October. Big thanks must go to Mrs Aishford for accompanying Mrs Gold to Ironbark for the day so that the Year 9 team of Jess Macowan, Ella Young, Abbey Capper, and Josie Bird (pictured facing page, top right) could compete. These girls clearly impressed because they WON! They achieved first place in the National Finals and are now off to Internationals in Massachusetts in June next year. Whether this will be contested remotely, hybrid, or in person remains to be seen.

Special congratulations to our Year 11 team of Melinda Herman, Sophie Mauracher and Charlie Hoare (pictured facing page, top left) who have consistently made it to Nationals for the past five years. This year, they managed to place sixth in Australia. An outstanding effort.

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Scenarios considered included: • How much nuance or complexity should communication about important scientific issues e.g. COVID contain, especially if it decreases the message’s persuasive value?

• Does wealth allow a person to make more ethical purchasing choices than if they were poor?

• What are the central values at stake in attempting to regulate speech on social media platforms?

• How do we judge whether a show’s depiction and show’s creators of an ethnic or religious minority is ethical? What role do the motives of a show's creators play in evaluating this ethical conflict?

ACADEMIC

Our Junior High group of Ava Robinson (Year 7), Lucia Blums, Elizabeth Wilson, Georgie Porter, Ting Jiang, Mulan Ma, Ava Bishop, Sophie Crampton, Elim Mahadeo, Liam Tighe, Aliana Tan (Year 8), and Lara Bellamywells (Year 9) are busily preparing for their competition day in November.

Scenarios being considered include: • It’s just a joke! Does the morality of a joke depend on context?

• How much influence should peers or parents have on a teenager’s life choices (Thirteen)?

• Is it a lie if you believe that it is true (Seinfeld)?

• Under what circumstances does the right to be forgotten on the internet (European Union) outweigh other basic rights, especially freedom of speech, and freedom of the press? And once you’ve

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done your time, should your sins be forgotten?

• Climate vs economy • Gender roles in bullying (Billy Elliot)

da Vinci Decathlon A team of Years 5 & 6 students worked together to develop their teamwork skills whilst developing their knowledge of the ten academic disciplines making up the da Vinci Decathlon. Weekly sessions with Miss Lyn Shaw focused on developing skills in English, Cartography, Engineering, Ideation, Mathematics, Science, Creative Producers, Art and Poetry, Code Breaking and General Knowledge. The students journeyed to Nudgee College in June, displaying exceptional skills in collaboration and thoroughly enjoying their experience.

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ACADEMIC

INTRODUCING ST PETERS' TECHGIRLS Eight years ago, the Techgirls Movement Foundation ran its first Techgirls Competition—a program designed to change the way girls perceive and engage in STEM. Since its inception, more than 11,000 girls have signed up to be part of the hands-on competition and, this year, a group of St Peters students joined their ranks.

KEL SEY BRICKNELL

communications officer

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hen you think about what an App Creator looks like, your first thought may not be of a nine-year-old girl, but perhaps it should be. This year, St Peters entered three teams into the Techgirls Competition—two made up of Year 4 students and one with a mix of Years 5-7 students. Challenged to find a technology-driven solution to a social, business or technical issue, the teams met once a week for three months. Together, they chose a topic, identified each other’s strengths and developed a range of STEM skills. With a Lockdown thrown into the mix, the girls adapted to meeting on Teams instead of face-to-face just weeks before the competition deadline, and rose above to produce high-quality business plans, pitch videos and working app prototypes.

So, what solutions did they come up with?

The subject areas our students chose varied—from game-based apps designed to encourage users to rethink their actions in the real world, to service-based apps hoping to improve mental health. Each idea indicated a deep concern for social issues and a desire to give back to the wider community.

'Envirofriend', the app created by Year 4 team, the Dragonets, was an educational, game-based app intended to encourage all ages to help the environment in the real world. 'Pet Matcher', created by the other Year 4 team, StarDragon, looked to improve mental wellbeing for people with disabilities by helping them find a pet to cuddle. The final app, created by two Year 5, one Year 6 and two Year 7 students, was an mHealth solution—one which used mobile and wireless technologies to support the achievement of health objectives. Their 'Sign-age App' was created to teach Auslan to children from 9 – 14 years old, enabling them to better

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communicate with their Deaf or hearingimpaired peers.

To create their apps and develop their business plans and pitches, each team worked with a St Peters eLearning coach and an industry-based mentor (assigned

by Techgirls). The Dragonets worked with Mrs Rachael Yates and Danielle Emerson— Innovation Lead, Asia & Australia at Herbert Smith Freehills; StarDragon worked with Mrs Amanda Rablin and Angela Luu—Legal Operations Manager at Herbert Smith Freehills; and our Sign-age Appers worked with Miss Meg Foley and Dr Urooj R. Khan— Senior Lecturer in Digital Health at La Trobe University. Our girls got a lot out of their coaches and mentors and it was wonderful to learn how much their mentors enjoyed the experience too.

“This amazing program is changing the way the girls perceive STEM, combining critical thinking and creative problem-solving to prototype a solution,” Dr Khan shared.

“Congratulations and well done [to my girls]! Always remember it is more about your learning along the journey than just winning or losing. No matter what results come out, [I am] so proud of you all!”

St Peters’ eLearning staff reiterated the pride Dr Khan had for the girls.

“They were really enthusiastic,” Amanda said. “We had a good mix of skills in each team too—we had people that really wanted to do the pitch; some with a high level of planning and organisation skills; expert coders; design people…it was really good to have them all come together.”

While they each loved using their different skills and strengths throughout the competition, there was one unanimous highlight for the girls—coding. Most of the students had some experience using

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Pictured (top to bottom): Techgirls Group 1 (L-R): Madelyn, Tharushi, Eloise, Georgia, Maxine and Floria (not pictured) were Queensland Finalists with their Sign-Age app. They received the Award for Excellence and were named State Runners Up at the Techgirls Online Showcase in October; in action with Ms Meg Foley; Techgirls break-up party; with their Superhero backpacks.

code before but said that, during the competition, it was different.

“I’ve coded Micromelons and EV3s in the Robotics room,” Year 7 student, Eloise, told us. “But you have to adapt what you know to use new software. They’re all different.”

The teams used Thunkable to code their apps—a platform that, Year 4 student, Adele, said inspired her to keep creating beyond the competition.

“When I worked out how good Thunkable was, I started going on there to make my own apps,” she shared. Adele’s desire to keep learning seems to be one the rest of the St Peters Techgirls experienced too.

Everyone involved in the 2021 Techgirls Competition has expressed an interest to take part again next year. In the meantime, they’re busy investigating ways to get involved in other tech-based fields, like Game Development and Digital Design.

After just one competition, these girls have caught the tech-bug. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for them!

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ACADEMIC

STEM COLLABORATION YEARS 4 AND 7

SUSAN LIC A STRO

years 7-10 stem coordinator

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n Term 3 an exciting opportunity for Inter-Year Level collaboration of classes 7A, 7C and 7J Science with 4A, 4B and 4C was implemented. Year 4 students were presented with two challenges to complete over the course of the Term to demonstrate their understanding of forces and motion.

The role of the Year 7 students was to enhance the competency and maximise the outcome of their allocated Year 4 group, by guiding and negotiating the group to the best possible solution to the challenge.

Challenge 1 involved a real-world engineering challenge by building a prototype of a device that could manually pump water during an emergency. Year 7 students were required to ‘think like entrepreneurs’ and come up with a business plan for how the device could be produced, sold and used in the real world.

Challenge 2 involved Year 4 students designing a Rube Goldberg Machine

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that, through a series of chain reactions, performed a specific task. Year 7 students were responsible for the design and implementation of a component for the machine using a 3D printer.

On completion, Year 4 students showcased their work with teachers and parents by demonstrating how their machine worked and explaining the forces involved.

This process not only engages students but provides them with the opportunity to develop critical thinking, problem solving, creative and collaborative skills. These are all essential STEM skills that students require for the future.

Many thanks to Ms Rebecca Lewin, Ms Sunny Kim and Mrs Susan Perera for their enthusiasm and commitment to ensure this project was successful and rewarding for all participants. Our vision is to continue this process with new projects for 2022.

ACADEMIC

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PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME EXHIBITION C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

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owards the conclusion of each year in Upper Primary, Year 6 students host a Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition.

The Exhibition is the culmination of our students’ International Baccalaureate PYP Journey through the Primary Years. After months of study, the depth of knowledge acquired, the eloquence of the students and their passion for applying their learning is fully realised and demonstrated at this event.

This year the theme for their Exhibition was ‘Sharing the Planet’ where students investigated themes including, but not limited to, nuclear power, the impact of war on mental health, recycling, access to water, gender discrimination ... the list goes on.

Thank you to the Year 6 Teachers and the many staff from across the College who acted as mentors for the students throughout the process. You should be very proud of our student's efforts.

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It never hurts to get a second opinion on your printing.

the answer is

Ph: 07 3392 7999 allclear.net.au

AROUND THE SCHOOL

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IT'S ALWAYS A GOOD TIME TO GIVE BACK At St Peters Springfield we have a strong commitment to community, and we instil this value of social responsibility in our students. In the past few months, the Springfield campus has been involved in various initiatives and activities to give back to both the local and greater community.

MAI THATCHER

springfield marketing & events officer

W

ith the ever-constant changes the community has been through since the pandemic began, the importance of being able to give back and build a strong sense of ‘community’ has never been more prevalent at the College.

When given an opportunity to give back, our Year 10 students Pari Ravula and Neerja Raniga volunteered. Both students gave up their own time to participate in a collaborative project in partnership with Lendlease and the Street Library program, to help design and paint a Community Library Box for the residents of Springfield Rise.

The students considered the diversity of the local community and its people when developing their designs and included mandalas and native florals as representations of stories about our community. They also included the motherboard circuit on the box to symbolise innovation and technology.

The Street Library Box is currently open for use and is located next to the Cottonwood Café at Springfield Rise, giving residents access to free books for all ages.

At Springfield we work to support the development of students to serve their community. Throughout the year the College hosts various activities to help raise money for different causes. These activities teach the students the benefits of service and the importance of being grateful, humble and connected.

One of our annual activities is our Coin Trail, where we encourage students bring along

Pictured (clockwise from top): Nerrja and Pari with their Street Library box; Years 5 & 6 Jump Rope students; annual Coin Trail.

coins to donate to a worthy cause. This year it was to raise awareness and funds for dyslexia.

The entire school competed to see who could make the longest trail with their coins. Our Prep and Year 7 students had the longest trails this year.

The students were able to raise just over $2,600 and the money was used to provide decodable readers to three Queensland remote schools Eromanga State School, Thargomindah State School and Cunnamulla State School. The decodable readers are designed specifically to assist in the development of phonics skills.

Another initiative the Springfield College held this year was Jump Rope for Heart. Our Years 5 and 6 students got involved in a ‘Jump off’ to help raise funds to fight heart disease. The students trained for a few weeks to see who could skip the most in three minutes.

Jump Rope for Heart teaches school children how to keep fit and healthy. Conducted by teachers, children learn physical activities to improve their strength, gain confidence and stamina. They were able to raise over $1,200 for heart disease research.

The activities that the College hosts throughout the year are not just to raise funds and give back, it is to also teach students valuable lessons and the importance of teamwork and community which transcends into life after school. We give thanks to all the students for their spirit, generosity and commitment to giving back to others.

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AROUND THE SCHOOL

COLLEGE LIFE VS REALITY In Term 1 we asked the 2021 College Captains about their vision for the year. Newly elected and excited to get the ball rolling, they had grand plans. Unfortunately, the year had a few hiccups to throw at them, so, this Term, we touched base to find out how it all played out.

KEL SEY BRICKNELL

communications officer

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W

e all know that life doesn’t always go attendance at Music and Art events, their year according to plan—that’s more obvious has been a busy one, but one that’s received a now than it ever has been. Still, for students lot of positive feedback. trying to get on with life and complete their “The ‘Fridays in the Forecourt’ were awesome high school journey, all this COVID business because they brought together kids from must be starting to feel like a bad joke. When Years 7 – 12 and added a bit of fun to the we interviewed the 2021 College Captains, week,” Maddie said.

Maddie, Josiah, Rachel and Jake, at the start of the year, their hopes were high for a year of “And there were lots of different people that came to those ‘Focus Rounds’ too,” Rachel new starts. shared. “Like, more than I was expecting.”

“We’re going into a new phase [with our The ‘Focus Rounds’ encouraged attendance at leadership],” Josiah told us. “Going into life weekly AIC and QGSSSA fixtures, with a new after COVID: ‘Twenty-twenty one-der’ – a code selected for each round. Students from year that focusses on oneness [as a College all Year Levels came along to cheer on their community].” peers at various Home and Away games— “Our vision is to have everyone excited to they created tunnels for the players to run come to school every day,” Maddie added. through, did war cries from the sidelines and “We’re so lucky to go to such an amazing ensured that College spirit was well and truly school and we have so many opportunities on display. available to us. We just really want to “I think this year was probably the first year encourage people to make the most of them where we’ve actually had supporters at all of and give things a go.” the QGSSSA games,” Josiah told us. “We had So, in a year where students didn’t come huge crowds at the Netball, Volleyball and to school every day, and where quite a few Football…that was pretty cool.” events were either postponed, cancelled or Jake and Rachel added that the four of them moved online, we were curious to find out had also managed to encourage a similar just how our Captains were feeling. level of support for the College’s Music and “We had a few COVID hiccups, which were Art students. unfortunate, but obviously that’s something “We had Prefects going along to all of the Arts you can’t control,” Maddie said. “I think, events throughout the year,” Jake said. overall, we did everything we could to overcome that, and I would say we were “And Music had they biggest crowds they’ve pretty successful!” ever had too,” Rachel added, citing the record numbers at Soundscape and the fact that College Vice Captain, Rachel, agreed, Concerto was fully booked out. “It was just reflecting on the initiatives they started— really nice to see people enjoying Music and from ‘Fridays in the Forecourt’, to ‘Focus coming to concerts!”

Rounds’ for Sport, and even drumming up

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Pictured (clockwise from top left): School Captains (Jake, Josiah, Maddie and Rachel) this term; School Captains and Swimming Captains lead the school war cry after the girls won their eighth QG title this year; SPYGT promo; Josiah leading the war cry at the Netball Focus Round; Prefects visiting Year 7 students on camp.

With so many highs, it’s hard to imagine there would’ve been anything our Captains didn’t achieve this year. There were, however, things they missed out on.

“We were planning on sending a group of Prefects up to the Year 8 camp, like we did for the Year 7s, but COVID impacted that,” Josiah shared.

“And we missed out on spectating at the QG and AIC Swimming Championships,” Rachel said.

Maddie added that, while some of their inter-Year Level relationship building plans had been thwarted there were still no thoughts of giving up.

“At the start of the year we were sending Year 12s down every single week to the Preppies and the Years 5, 6 and 7s at lunch times. It was such a positive thing to look forward to and something where you could see that you were making an impact. Some of the newer kids hadn’t quite settled in and made friends, so we got to play a part in allowing that to happen—that was really nice,” she said. “Depending on restrictions, we’d like to start doing that again in our last few weeks of school.”

The pandemic has clearly taught the Captains the real meaning of resilience—yes, they’ve learnt how to draw on each other’s strengths, and on those around them but, more than anything, they’ve learnt to keep moving forward, no matter what.

“We’ve become able to pivot,” Rachel said. “Any planning we do now always involves a backup plan…and a back up to the backup plan!”

“It’s a little bit nerve-wracking,” Maddie confessed, “but it’s something we’ve got pretty good at. We’re flexible—if COVID knocks us back, we get disappointed, but we know we can’t control it. We can control how we respond and so we’re always looking for a way around things—trying to see the positive side.”

Jake added that they’ve found enjoyment in some of the ‘weirdest and most stressful of situations’.

“That’s what’s kept us getting through,” he said. “That and the support we’ve had. Everyone always told us, ‘We’re going to be here for you the whole year,’ but it wasn’t until we actually got here that we realised how important that would be.”

“Yeah, something I didn’t appreciate before becoming a Captain was just how hard the Events team works, and how much Mr Rushmore, Mrs Huxham and Mrs Burton do behind the scenes. Especially Mrs Burton—she’s unbelievable. We’re very, very thankful.”

Of the year on a whole, the 2021 College Captains say it’s been a good one, and we couldn’t agree more. As they prepare to trade College life for the outside world, they unanimously said it’s going to be the people they will miss.

“I’ve been here for eight years and it’s been my whole life,” Rachel said. “It’s going to be weird to not see everyone every day, but we also know that we’re welcome back at any time. It’s nice to know that there’s the support there, even in the future.”

Good luck, Captains, and thank you for your year of ‘twenty-twenty one-der’!

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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AROUND THE SCHOOL

STAFF PROFILE: JOSH BJELKE-PETERSEN The travel bug bit Indooroopilly Year 5 teacher, Josh Bjelke-Petersen, hard and up until the first wave of COVID lockdown, you’d be hard pressed to find him in Australia. Now, he has settled locally and we welcomed him to the St Peters family earlier this year. I caught up with Josh to talk about his famous surname, travelling and his love of photography.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

CASSIE TWEMLOW: Hi Josh. Tell me a bit about your heritage. Can I assume you are of the renowned Bjelke-Petersen family?

JOSH BJELKE-PETERSEN: Yes. Sir Joh and Flo were Granddad and Grandma. I grew up on Bethany, which is the Kingaroy farm. It was an awesome childhood growing up on a farm.

I have three brothers and a younger sister, so there's plenty of space to run around and burn some energy. I can't imagine my parents would have survived with four boys all under the one roof if there was only a small backyard. My parents are still up there and it’s always nice to go back. I attended St John's Lutheran School Kingaroy - which is now a P-9 school - for my primary years and then I went to the local high school. I enjoyed my time especially because a good group of friends made life pretty easy.

CT: And what made you want to become a teacher?

JBP: My mum was a teacher. Admittedly, she started teaching preschool and that was never for me but, I always enjoy having fun with the kids. And I enjoy seeing them grow especially from the start of Year 5 where they are somewhat small and they slowly mature.

Then they start to really appreciate all the different things they're learning and take pride in their work as well, which is always such a nice progression for people to see.

I did an HPE major and came here as a Prac Student in 2011 - I was actually with Cam Glass down in Lower Primary. That was a great time I really enjoyed the school; I really enjoyed working with Cam and just the atmosphere was very supportive. It was nice coming back for my interview and seeing some of the staff members that were here when I was on prac still here. Obviously, it speaks to the culture in school they hang around for a number of years.

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My first school was up in north Queensland. I did four days in the classroom and then I was the PE teacher for a day, and that was a great opportunity. The school was a tiny (40 kids) and across the road was the local town pool.

I had the keys to the pool so every Friday in Terms 1 and 4 we'd go swimming and that was always a lot of fun.

This year I coached the Year 8B girls Volleyball team here. I played Volleyball throughout high school and then socially with some friends. I quite enjoy the sport and the Year 8 girls are great and it was nice working with a different age group. The last time I had anything to do with Year 8 girls when I was in Year 8! It was a great group and we went undefeated this season, which was an awesome result.

CT: I follow your Instagram account and the places you have been are amazing – not to mention the photos you have taken.

JBP: I have a nice camera that I probably don’t do justice to but in the last couple of years I started getting into film (35mm and 120mm) photography. I have all the stuff at home to develop the film and that's a fun process. It can be long, but it is a rewarding process finally developing the film and seeing all the photos. I've got two cameras at the moment and I can't remember half the photos that I took on those cameras so it's always nice to develop the film and then remind you of all the fun times and all the things you did. It's always nice to have physical photos - I think it just attaches a little bit more meaning insofar as, you can't just go and take 1,000 photos of one thing, you need to be a bit more mindful of what you're snapping or you’ll end up going broke pretty quick.

CT: What's your favourite place you've visited?

JBP: I was very lucky to travel to a lot of very awesome places. I did three years up in

AROUND THE SCHOOL

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Pictured (clockwise from top left): The night sky from Bethany, Kingaroy; The Catlins, New Zealand; Josh in Norway; Kjeragbolten, Norway; the Canadian Rocky Mountains; Milford Sound, New Zealand; Josh on Trolltunga, Norway. All photos courtesy of Josh Bjelke-Petersen. You can view more by scanning the QR code below.

north Queensland and had a bit of money saved so I did a bit of travelling. I’ve been to some spectacular places and I really like Norway. I was traveling with my brother and we went up to Svalbard, which is like this tiny island way, way up north, and got to do some cool things up there like seeing the Northern Lights which was pretty spectacular. Trolltunga (The Troll Tongue) [on the mainland] was a 30km round hike so that was big day. And then I went to Kjeragbolten and you can stand on that rock as well, but it’s a hundreds of meters down. And although my selfie game is strong, there was no way I was taking a selfie on this rock perched 800m above the fjord below.

CT: So, when the world opens back up again where are you heading off to?

JBP: Probably, Denmark. I was an exchange student in Denmark out of high school so, obviously, my

host family is still over there. It’s especially beautiful around Christmas time - they do really cold cozy Christmases. Normally a bit of snow around. The other place would probably be Canada. Get back to do some hikes. Who knows - there's too many places.

CT: You seem to enjoy hiking. Have you done much locally?

JBP: Yes, I did Tibrogargan a number of years ago and it's pretty sketchy in parts. The back face of it is pretty exposed and steep. I didn't feel unsafe, but you definitely weren't like throwing caution to the wind. I haven't done Mount Beerwah, which is apparently a bit similar. And then there are a couple of nice ones like Mount Ngungun. I did Mount Maroon down near Mount Barney with some mates from uni.

CT: Thanks Josh. I look forward to seeing more of your photos when we all get to travel again.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

2020

AROUND THE SCHOOL

GOODBYE MR SCHMIDT The Springfield community farewell incumbent Principal Craig Schmidt at the end of 2021. During his tenure as Principal at the College the school has continued to grow and flourish under his leadership, and through some extreme challenges. In this article, we would like to acknowledge all that Mr Schmidt has accomplished.

MAI THATCHER

springfield marketing & events officer

J

oining the Springfield College in May 2012, Craig Schmidt's initial appointment was as Deputy Principal. In this role, he worked to demonstrate his core faith and belief in the benefits of co-education in a Christian centred context. Leading by example, Mr Schmidt worked to instil clear expectations to the students around conduct and behaviour, motivating them to embody the motto of Plus Ultra in all they do.

But we should also not forget that prior to this appointment he had spent many years committed to the art of teaching. Qualifying as a PE teacher, his analytical mind gave him an aptitude to teach the most complex of subjects through Specialist Maths classes.

He is a highly respected and engaging teacher and many students were saddened when growth at the College meant his time had to become solely focused on his management role.

For the past three years Mr Schmidt has faithfully served as Principal at Springfield.

During this time Mr Schmidt has led with distinction, strengthening the College’s Christian ethos, developing a vibrant staff

Plus Ultra | November 2021

and student culture, enhancing our sense of community, and overseeing significant facility development. Strong enrolment demand has seen the student population increase by 18%. This growth has been carefully managed making thorough use of existing facilities and with future development planning. The College continues to have a healthy school culture based upon our core values, and the motto Plus Ultra providing a ‘first class’ teaching and learning program creating good learning outcomes as evidenced by our student results.

Principal Craig Schmidt managed, as part of a wider team, the construction of new facilities within the College, including the innovative Junior High Precinct which opened in September 2020. This building was designed to give students an inspiring and creative space to learn and collaborate. The precinct is a standing legacy to the St Peters community and future families of Mr Schmidt’s commitment and dedication to provide high quality facilities that support the ethos that ‘every student learns every day’.

AROUND THE SCHOOL

In response to the growth, the College also saw a community demand for places in the St Peters Lutheran College Springfield Kindergarten who opened a second classroom in March 2021. The additional classroom allowed more opportunities for parents looking to give their children a K-12 education journey. Mr Schmidt believes that, 'the kindergarten is the first opportunity we have to demonstrate to families the authentic and holistic way we support students at St Peters. We are trusted with that which they hold most dear, and this is an undertaking that the team takes very seriously. The reward of watching a child grow in confidence and skill and develop in character is a gift to us'.

Part of Mr Schmidt’s legacy will be the organic development and the visual representation of the St Peters Graduate Tree. The tree was developed in collaboration with the teaching staff and represents key qualities and characteristics of a Springfield graduate. It embodies the deep commitment of staff, under Mr Schmidt’s leadership, to the formation of students into adult life, equipping them

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with skills and knowledge to use their gifts and talents in service to the world.

Mr Schmidt also led with great fortitude and provided great leadership through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The College had to quickly adapt to be capable of delivering quality education through At Home Learning and despite several lockdowns. Multiple changes in learning programs, timetables, events, student and teacher interaction; and much more were necessary for students to continue their education with minimal disruption.

Committed in his genuine care and concern for all staff, students and families, Mr Schmidt provided necessary support and assistance at every level to maintain our strong sense of community and embody the values of Care, Dignity and Respect.

It's now time to congratulate Mr Schmidt on his new appointment and wish him every success as he navigates this new chapter.

You will be remembered for your passion, knowledge, insight and humble appreciation of God’s gifts. Thank you, Mr Schmidt you will be missed by us all.

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AROUND CAMPUS

LETTERS FROM IRONBARK Community, commitment and connection. That is the Ironbark ethos.

Correspondence is another element of difference, mainly because it is done with out the use of technology.

Over 600 letters are handwritten and delivered to and from Ironbark each year and some of our students have shared their experiences with us here.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

I

ronbark is a St Peters rite of passage for current Year 9 students that has been running for 47 years. The first groups of students to embark on the journey were Year 10 students who attended the outdoor education centre for an entire term. Due to College growth, including the expansion to Springfield, the Ironbark experience is now a five-week program.

Aside from the standard outdoor skills that students learn – horsemanship, orienteering, hiking, camping, and general farm skills – students are encouraged to embrace traditional (non-technological) activities. As students don’t have access to telephones or computers, they are expected to write letters home to friends and family once a week via ‘snail mail’. This tradition has stood for over 40 years and parents look forward to hearing from their child whilst away from home for a significant period of time. Likewise, camp students are always watchful of the postal delivery to Ironbark just to get that taste of the outside world.

From learning how to cook, to complaining about the cold early morning runs, the letters are often full of excitement, pride and, sometimes, sadness at missing their families and regular routines. 'Not coping with the pig poo. YUK!', and how much they miss music are common themes. More often than not, students explain how they have surprised themselves in fulfilling an activity or chore they didn’t know they were capable of.

Here we have a handful of letters from current students and Old Scholars spanning the last 30 years. They make for amusing reading!

Plus Ultra | November 2021

Pictured: Letters from students at Ironbark from 1981 through until this year.

Directly above is a photo of correspondence to and from a 1996 Ironbark student.

AROUND CAMPUS

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AROUND CAMPUS

WHAT DO YOU VALUE? “In God we trust, all others bring data.”

— W Edwards Deming

LISA DEL ANEY

deputy head of college

S

ince 2018, the College has prioritized the collection of meaningful data to assist in the future strategic and operational planning as well as tracking changes in our performance. For our 2021 survey, MMG have been commissioned to gather data from our College parents (Prep-12), staff and students (Years 5-12) as part of our commitment to continually monitor and improve the quality of education we provide to our students.

This year a total of 240 parents from Springfield and 843 parents from Indooroopilly completed the survey. The surveys were extensive and covered more than 300 aspects of education and life at the College. The following tables list the top five results where parents expectations had been met or exceeded across key areas, ranked in order of importance they placed in these same areas when choosing a College for their children.

2021 St Peters Lutheran College Springfield Parents Expectations Met/ Exceeded Top 5

2021 St Peters Springfield Parents - What do you value most about your association with the College?

Top 5 Safe, caring and supportive environment Quality of teachers and staff The College culture and values Balanced, well-rounded education The College community 2021 St Peters Indooroopilly Parents - What do you value most about your association with the College?

Top 5 Safe, caring and supportive environment Quality of teachers and staff The College community

The College’s Reputation

Academic curriculum and standards

The College’s Values

Child's happiness attending school

Balanced Education Cocurricular Program Academic Standards 2021 St Peters Lutheran College Indooroopilly Parents Expectations Met/ Exceeded Top 5 The College’s Reputation Balanced Education The range of subject choices Facilities & Resources The College’s Values

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Parents also provided valuable 'open ended’ comments on a number of areas. These responses added greatly to the value of the review. In response to the question about what parents valued most about St Peters Lutheran College Indooroopilly, the top five areas noted by parents are detailed below.

A sincere thank you to all parents who participated for their feedback and for the extent of information and quality of views expressed.

Overall, we are very pleased with the results. However, there are areas identified where further attention will be given.

These include aspects of our Pastoral Care programs and our ongoing pursuit for academic excellence. These will form an integral part of our strategic and operational planning for the future.

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Below is a small sample of some of the 'open ended' comments from parents in relation to what they valued about their experience with the College.

St Peters provides my children with a holistic program of development. Academic focus is rigorous but is not the sole focus.

I appreciate the variety of cocurricular opportunities available for the students to experience; the vocational courses offered; and the Christian ethos that underpins the Pastoral Care & personal development programs.

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The community spirit; the heart and quality of its leaders; caring and honest teachers; a good balance of sports activities with academic abilities; quality of education; the ambience and positive atmosphere; that our children are very happy and proud to be associated with the College; instilling confidence in students.

The teachers are very helpful and cater to the individual student needs.

St Peters is an excellent school that provides quality education and produces ready-forlife graduates.

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AROUND CAMPUS

SPRINGFIELD SAYS FAREWELL One of St Peters Springfield’s first families, the Arriagada-Malone, will be finishing up at the end of the year, with their youngest son Themys graduating Year 12. We would like to acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments the Arriagada-Malone family have made to the College in the past fourteen years.

C AROLYN JACOBS

springfield enrolments registrar

T

he Arriagada-Malone’s family have been part of the St Peters Springfield community since it opened its doors in 2008.

The family have three sons with their eldest, Alexis, being the first student enrolled at St Peters Springfield. Alexis’ younger brother Marcelo also enrolled at the same time with the youngest son Themys, enrolling in 2009.

During their time at the College, the brothers have personified the two expectations of all Springfield students—to strive for Plus Ultra – ever higher, more beyond—and to treat everybody with Care, Dignity and Respect. They set the standard for future students embodying what is expected when it comes to conduct and behaviour, and a commitment to personal growth and lifelong learning.

Alexis started in Year 5 and, after graduating, pursued his interest in Robotics and Technology, enrolling in a Bachelor of Mechatronics - Engineering at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). He has since established and operates his own 3D printing business, being able to turn his passion into the start of a career.

Marcelo, a very talented Track & Field athlete, graduated in 2017. Marcelo made a

Plus Ultra | November 2021

lasting impression on his peers and teachers at the College through his humble gratitude, kindness to others and due to his strong contribution to our community. Marcelo served in a variety of leadership roles including School Vice Captain (2017), Sports Captain (2017) and Cunningham House Vice Captain/Captain (2016/2017). He was an exemplary student who was dedicated to demonstrating the College’s values.

In keeping with the College’s Plus Ultra mindset, Marcelo returned to the College in 2021 to complete his internship at St Peters Springfield, as part of a Bachelor of Creative Industries at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Marcelo saw the internship as an opportunity for personal growth and development but also giving him the chance to contribute back to the St Peters community that offered him so much. Marcelo also works as a current staff member of the OSHC team (Outside School Hours Care) at Springfield.

With the youngest brother Themys about to finish Year 12, our partnership with their family in the brother’s education journey will now draw to a conclusion. The last child in the family to graduate at St Peters

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Pictured (opposite page, L-R): MARCELO Year 3, 2008; with the USQ radio crew in 2017; now, as a member of the Springfield OSHC team; (this page, clockwise from top left): ALEXIS - Year 5, 2008; with Neville Stallman in 2015; giving a speech on Springfield's 10th anniversary with Neville Stallman in 2018; THEMYS - Prep, 2009; as a Senior in 2021; Cross Country in 2019.

Springfield, like his brothers, Themys, has embraced every opportunity given to him at school and is currently Cunningham House Captain and looking to turn his passion and talent for both Sports and Science into a future career.

Now that their youngest child is graduating this year, their mother, Suzanne sees it as the end of an era.

“I still remember the first day of school at St Peters Springfield. My father helped build the original St Peters Springfield campus, before it was moved to its current site.

There were less than 100 students, and I

knew this was a community I wanted to be part of. We have absolutely loved being at St Peters Springfield and all our three sons have flourished in their own way. Thank you, St Peters Springfield, for everything. It has been a great journey and we will miss being part of the community. All of us, including my sons, have made lifelong friends here.”

The College is honoured to have shared in the growth and development of these young men. We wish the Arriagada-Malone family all the best for the future, confident that they will all continue to make a positive contribution to the world – Saints for life!

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Plus Ultra | November 2021

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THE ARTS

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ST PETERS YOU'VE GOT TALENT The talent on display at the 2021 SPYGT Finale was incredible.

It was touch-and-go whether a live performance would go ahead and thanks to the College Captains and SPOSA, for supporting the event, there were no broken legs in sight.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

View: Chloe and Gauri

O

n Friday 30 July, the St Peters You’ve Got Talent final took place in the Dron Auditorium in front of a socially distanced audience. We were so lucky to even have an audience there, this year, and they, as well as the performers, were very appreciative.

The five finalists – Zero Gravity (Years 7-11), Chloe and Gauri (Year 10, top left), Gabbie & Botoa (Years 10 &12, top centre), Sophia Maddock (Year 8, top right) and Fraser Stott (Year 9) – captured the audience with their various musical talents. We also had annual performances from the teachers (bottom left) and boarding boys, who both entertained with their amusing dancing acts. Finally, The Pulse, with special guests Maddie and Ella Rushmore, delighted us

with their rendition of ‘Here comes the Sun’ and ‘Sweet Child o’ Mine’.

Thank you to all the performers and backstage helpers for making this event possible. Our Captains and Perfects (bottom right)did a fabulous job pulling it all together on the night and producing a very entertaining evening for everyone.

Congratulations to the 2021 SPYGT winners, Chloe and Gauri, who wowed us with their acoustic version of Adele’s, ‘Someone Like You’.

If you missed the live performances you can check them out by scanning the QR codes.

View: Combined acts

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THE ARTS

PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

DAVID DEACON

head of strings and music co-Director

T

he Performer of the Year not only showcases the astounding level of achievement attained by the College's finest young musicians, but also provides concert performance opportunities at the highest level. Despite COVID-19 restrictions, both concerts were able to go ahead with the Recital Final available via Livestream only and the Concerto Final with the orchestra performing in face masks.

Recital Final – Saturday 21 August - Finalists • Chloe Baird – Saxophone • Panelo Hsieh – Piano • Victor Huang – Piano

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• • • • • •

Rebecca Kim – Cello Mark Lubke – Violin Lana Ly – Harp Mulan Ma – Piano George Thomas – Cello Brooke Wallace – Violin

All delighted, enthralled and impressed the Livestream audience. The performers, ranging from Years 7–12, exhibited poise, maturity and composure beyond their years, astounding technical prowess and rich musicality. Pianist Mulan Ma (top left) was awarded the title of 2021 Performer of the Year - Recitalist, for her accomplished

THE ARTS

and musical rendition of works by Haydn and Granados.

Concerto Final - Saturday 28 August The 14th Annual Performer of the Year Concerto Competition included performances by: • Alyssa Deacon - Bottesini Double Bass Concerto No. 2 (1st and 2nd mvts) • Kaden Kuo - Elgar Cello Concerto (4th mvt) • Aden Gao - Saint Saens Piano Concerto No. 2 (1st mvt) • Grace Sun - Mendelssohn Piano Concerto No. 1 (1st mvt) • Yuro Lee - Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto (3rd mvt)

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Each performer had been preparing for the event for many months and countless hours of practice. Their incredible talent and dedication to music is what drives the sense of community and support seen each year at the Concerto Final.

Students, Old Scholars and current teaching staff all join together to form the Concerto Symphony Orchestra. Adjudicators Catherine Lynagh and Brendan Joyce were extremely impressed with all performances and congratulated St Peters on its commitment to music by providing such high-level opportunities for our young musicians. The winner of the 2021 Performer of the Year Concerto Final was Year 12 double bassist – Alyssa Deacon (above, centre row, right).

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THE ARTS

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MAI THATCHER

springfield marketing & events officer

T

eaching people to get over their stage fright is not an easy task. However, Speech and Drama Tutor, Mrs Kathy Wilson, at St Peters Springfield is always up for the challenge. There is a perception that Drama is an easy class but, like any other Performing Arts subject it requires dedication, plenty of practice and skill.

Recently, 28 of the Speech and Drama students at St Peters Springfield participated in the Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod, with great success. The Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod began 75 years ago to give young people the opportunity to perform in a competition in front of the general public through Music, Dance and Speech and Drama.

Many of the students who took part had never performed in front of a large audience before. With the tutoring and support of Mrs Wilson they were able to overcome their fears and step into the spotlight.

Competing across a variety of categories such as poetry, prose, character monologues and duologues; the students stepped out of their comfort zone to stand in front of strangers and an adjudicator. Some even chose to take on the challenges of short -prep impromptu reading and speaking.

They all successfully performed their pieces without forgetting a line or stumbling, which was a massive achievement, attributed to their determination and courage alongside the support Kathy Wilson provided.

“They showed tenacity, passion and pushed themselves. Performing on a stage with lights can be a daunting experience and they

Plus Ultra | November 2021

all handled themselves with poise. Being able to perform their pieces without tears or having to be prompted is the true success of this whole experience,” explained Kathy.

Through competing, the students were able to discover more about their own potential and how to deal with a variety of obstacles.

Each student received a report after their performance and expert advice on ways to improve their skills and public speaking.

Since the Eisteddfod, Kathy Wilson has seen the positive changes in her students. Many of them are excited to perform again.

“Life is full of struggles and children can draw on these achievements as they tackle the next struggle life throws at them. Being part of the Eisteddfod also helped them process emotions better,” said Kathy.

A big congratulations to all the students who participated. Eighteen students received awards in various categories while competing against over 200 competitors. It was a massive achievement for everyone in involved.

We’d also like to put a spotlight on Speech and Drama Tutor, Mrs Kathy Wilson, for achieving such remarkable success with her students. She is not only a supportive teacher for the Speech and Drama section of the Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod, but is also the co-convenor of this eisteddfod, and devotes many volunteer hours to bringing this event to fruition.

Thank you, Mrs Wilson, for all you do at St Peters, and the many opportunities you provide for your students.

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Plus Ultra | November 2021

SPORT

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THE OLYMPICS AND BEYOND St Peters Springfield recently welcomed back Mollie O’Callaghan from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She was enthusiastically received by staff and students from Prep—Year 12 with a Guard of Honour and a visual display of the Aussie ‘Green and Gold’! Mollie then participated in a Q & A session with secondary students, sharing her recent experience with the College.

MAI THATCHER

springfield marketing & events officer

A

t just 17 years old, Mollie was the It was after this first race and through youngest member of the Australian extensive support from her parents and Olympic Team. All her hard work, dedication, commitment by Mollie that her inherent perseverance, and countless hours spent talent has been able to develop in a sport that training culminated in her outstanding she loves. performance at the Olympics. Mollie “Anything is possible if you just put the work returned as an Olympian, able to use the into it. I train hard and am always constantly letters ‘OLY’ post-nominally and as a member trying to improve so I can see how far I can go of the most successful Australian Olympic in Swimming for the future.”

Swim Team ever. A winner of two Gold medals and a Bronze medal, the third fastest The training is no easy feat. Mollie attends up to nine training sessions per week, with each Australian female Freestyle swimmer over session ranging from two to three hours.

200m ever and, the Junior World Record Her commitment to training is not the only holder in the 200m Freestyle. attribute to her success in the pool but it is For the team at St Peters Springfield, we are also her mindset. Mollie’s mindset means not only proud of Mollie’s many achievements that when she’s on the block and about to in the pool, but also how she has represented start a race her primary focus is to beat her herself outside the pool despite the immense own Personal Best. pressure and expectations of competing on an international stage. Mollie remains humble Mollie is an inspiration to all in our College community. While we may not all be bound and shows gratitude and appreciation for the for the Olympics, we can nonetheless wider network of family, friends, coaches aspire to have the strength of character, a and teachers that have helped her to live her quality she possesses, to make most of the dreams. This is all while studying to achieve opportunities before us and pursue the goals her QCE and an ATAR qualification. and dreams we have and hold.

Her competitive Swimming career started We would like to also acknowledge the at the age of seven. Mollie had watched her older sister compete but had no real interest guidance and professional support of Mollie’s in Swimming herself until she was presented St Peters Western Swim Club coaches, Dean Boxall and Maxine Sear, in addition to Jeremy with the opportunity to participate in a 25m Lohe (St Peters Springfield, Head of Sport) race. During her first competitive swim her and the wider teaching team at Springfield for father walked alongside her down the edge supporting Mollie on her journey to date. of the pool, not knowing if she could swim the distance. Mollie recalls, “At the start, I With so many achievements under her belt did not like Swimming. But once I competed already and with the Plus Ultra mindset, my first race, I fell in love. It’s the racing we’re sure Mollie will have many more aspect I enjoy the most.” accomplishments in the future. The College is behind you and cheering you on!

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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SPORT

GYMNASTS DEFY GRAVITY Rhythmic Gymnastics equals sparkly sequins on leotards, graceful movement of ribbons as they float through the air and routines executed to perfection. Not to mention a lot of hard work.

NICOLE MAYNARD

rhythmic gymnastics coordinator

W

ay back in the late 80’s, so long ago, I have fond memories of watching the Olympic Games and being mesmerised by the Rhythmic Gymnastics routines. The gymnasts were so beautiful and so captivating.

Watching a routine was like nothing I had seen before – it was truly magical. Of course, these days I now know Rhythmic Gymnastics is so much more than wearing pretty leotards and twirling ribbons. Gymnasts need to be strong, graceful, flexible and agile. Girls must possess a level of coordination but have the ability to perform a routine to music with their chosen apparatus. The sport is certainly not for the faint hearted.

Cut to 2021, and after a year’s reprieve— thank you Global Pandemic—it was wonderful to see so many St Peters students returning to a sport they truly love.

Rhythmic Gymnastics was of course no exception. The girls were super excited to be returning and I, on the other hand, was thrilled to be taking on the role of Coordinator for the sport. We also welcomed back our talented Head Coach, Phoebe Anderson, and her amazing team of Assistant Coaches, all of whom are so experienced and dedicated to student development and improvement. Their passion and knowledge for all things Rhythmic Gymnastics is second to none.

For this season, the main focus for our girls was Hoop and Ball. Both apparatuses, naturally, presented a level of difficulty and at times, proved to be hard to master. The Hoop incorporated such movements as rolling, throwing, catching and rotations around the hand and body. Whilst the Ball, roughly the size of a small netball, relied on elements of throwing, bouncing and rolling. All Rhythmic Gymnastics groups were formed according to age and experience. Apart from the ‘Opens’, each group consisted of four girls and their chosen apparatus.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

The girls worked tirelessly at training and throughout the season. Time and time again they proved how quickly they could adapt to the many changes due to the COVID-19 restrictions and when it came to the QGSSSA Competition Day, although it was tough, it was without a doubt a tremendous effort from each and every one of our girls. The standard of their performances was exceptional. We are so proud of their efforts and of their St Peters spirit—Plus Ultra all the way!

With the season now fully behind us, I am excited for what lies ahead in 2022. I look forward to seeing some new faces and hopefully some old faces as well but ultimately, I look forward to another successful season of Rhythmic Gymnastics!

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Special Acknowledgements I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the following people: • A BIG thank you to all the girls and their families, for their commitment, hard work and determination. Without your continued support, none of this would be possible.

• Thank you to the 2021 Rhythmic Gymnastics Captains, Michelle Wei (Captain, Year 12) and Jessica Logan (Vice-Captain, Year 11) for lending their time and offering their assistance to the Coaches and to the whole RG team throughout the season.

• A special thank you to Phoebe Anderson (Head Coach) and her team of Assistant Coaches. Phoebe’s knowledge and passion for the sport is truly outstanding. The girls are so blessed to have Phoebe as their coach!

• And finally, a BIG BIG thank you to Mrs Anne-Marie Champion.

Your continued support and guidance throughout the entire season, not only for Rhythmic Gymnastics but for all Girls Sport – is so greatly appreciated. You are the epitome of hard working, care, compassion and cool!

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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DIVING DEEP WITH SPW OLYMPIANS Some days you come to school and learn Maths. Other days, you turn up and get the chance to speak one-on-one with a group of Olympic superstars, or, at least, you do if you’re a St Peters student!

KEL SEY BRICKNELL

communications officer

I

f you missed the Olympics in July (we’re not “My head was pretty calm,” Ariarne said, sure how!), you might not have heard about surprising everyone. “I was actually just all the Old Scholars and current St Peters enjoying watching the racing on the TV students competing in Japan. From Pita screen in there. But I was also just trying Taufatofua (2000), who represented Tonga to stay relaxed and not worry too much.” in Taekwondo, to our nine St Peters Western Ariarne confessed that, before a race, she (SPW) representatives—Madi Wilson (2011), tries not to think too much, especially about Abbey Harkin (2016), Eve Thomas (2018), her race. For her, it’s all about conserving Ariarne Titmus (2018), Mollie O’Callaghan energy and keeping her nerves in check.

(2021), Mitch Larkin (SPW), Meg Harris Similarly, for Mollie, pre-race distraction is a (SPW), Elijah Winnington (SPW) and St Peters big thing.

Swimming Head Coach, Dean Boxall, the “I like to talk a lot, especially in Marshalling” College really did have a lot to cheer for! But while we were cheering, we were also mindful Mollie shared with Year 5 student, Chelsea.

“Different people have different ways of of all the questions our Olympians were coping, but leading up to it, I like to distract fielding. Rather than asking them to repeat myself with random things, like talking and themselves upon their return, we decided to fidgeting.” change things up a bit.

At the start of Term 4, we asked four Years 5 and 6 students to interview a group of our St Peters Swimming Olympians. Chelsea George, Zahra Olowoniyi, Isabella Lau and Luke Aldridge, all budding swimmers themselves, jumped at the chance to talk to their heroes. They spoke to Abbey, Eve, Ariarne, Mollie and Dean, and conducted an incredible interview. So, how did it start?

With Isabella asking Ariarne what’s the most important thing to do when you race.

“I think it is to worry about yourself,” Arnie shared. “So, when you’re racing, really stick to your plan…don’t worry about what other people are doing, just worry about yourself.”

Watch: Upper Primary students interview SPW Olympians/Old Scholars.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

On the other end of the scale, quite obviously, is the famous energy of Dean Boxall and our students didn’t shy away from asking him all about it either!

“Do you get as excited for other people swimming as you did at the Olympics?” Zahra asked him.

“Absolutely,” Dean said. “Have you seen me at QGSSSA?” Dean told Zahra to keep an eye out for him when she starts competing at the annual QGSSSA Swimming Championships in Year 7. There, he said, she’ll be able to spot him running up and down the side of the pool for every race.

Eve continued with similar advice when asked “We got fourth in a race when we thought we

by Luke how she measures success. might’ve got eighth,” Dean said, reflecting “I think, in the pool, you can only compare on his last QGSSSA Championships. “I think I yourself to yourself,” she said. “So, in terms jumped up and down as much as I did when of success, it’s about bettering yourself. For Arnie won her Gold!” me, I measure my PBs and that kind of thing, Dean’s level of excitement for his sport is no rather than going off someone else’s.” surprise when you consider the sacrifices he’s The students then sought advice on race made throughout his career. When Chelsea preparation, with Zahra asking Ariarne asked what one of the toughest decisions what was going through her head in the he’s made as a coach has been, he confessed Marshalling Room before her 400m Freestyle that it was letting go of his family a little bit. against Katie Ledecky.

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Pictured right (back row, L-R): Ariarne Titmus, Dean Boxall, Eve Thomas, Mollie O'Callaghan and Abbey Harkin (front row, L-R): Luke Aldridge, Chelsea George, Isabella Lau and Zahra Olowoniyi.

“I have two boys and I’m not home to take them to Football or to Swimming. Sometimes I’m not home for dinner” he said. “But that’s a decision we made in the pursuit of Olympic glory.” – Glory that, he said, hasn’t come without hard work and overcoming adversity.

“It takes a lot of work [to get to the Olympics],” Dean said.

“You have to be a good person and have a really good work ethic. You need to be able to come back every day and be that same person you were when you started. Not changing or being upset when things aren’t going well, and not thinking you’re better than what you are. Coming back and being the same consistent person. Every session, every day.”

And that, his swimmers are. As they spoke to the students, it was clear how much passion they had for their sport, and, similarly, how much they enjoyed sharing that passion with the next generation. When asked about how she perfects her stroke technique by young 200m Breaststroker, Isabella, Abbey was extremely humble.

“I wouldn’t say I’m perfect at it,” the Olympian said, “but I’ve worked alongside Nick, who’s our Biomechanist, and he’s helped me a lot…I think [the secret to perfection is] finding where your strengths are.”

And that’s what she’s working on now. Along with Ariarne,

Eve and Mollie, Abbey is already back in the pool training, with new goals in mind. The unanimous opinion is that the Olympics felt like a dream—one they’re extremely grateful that it went ahead after a year of wondering and stop-starts.

“It was very special,” Abbey said. “I used to look at all the Olympians in past years and think, ‘it would be an absolute dream to be on the team’. For me to achieve that, was something really special.”

“It’s a bit of a different feeling, knowing that you’re an Olympian now and you’ve made it,” Mollie added, continuing with a teaser, “but there’s still more to come!”

“I believe everybody here can be faster,” Dean said. “I don’t think they’ve reached their peak, but where that peak is going to be, we don’t know.”

So, keep an eye out for our SPW Olympians. They may have already reached the pinnacle of their sport, but you better believe it’s not the last time we’ll be hearing their names and cheering them on.

For more behind the scenes footage, watch the full interview Chelsea, Zahra, Isabella and Luke conducted by scanning the QR Code (left). Well done students—some great insights there!

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THE BOY FROM BOONAH Resident Photographer, Anthony Cox, interviewed St Peters HPE stalwart, Russell Haug, on the cusp of his retirement later this year. From funny anecdotes to lasting memories, Russell shares stories from 60+ years associated with St Peters.

Pictured: Russell Haug (back row, right) with 1986 PE staff.

ANTHONY COX

photograher, graphic and web designer

Anthony Cox Russell, you have a long history with St Peters. Tell us how your journey began.

mention a feast with prawns, oysters and everything else. It was unbelievable.

Russell Haug I remember coming here as a three-year-old in 1954 to see my older brother start boarding. I came back in the 70s to referee Rugby Union games but, due to a drought on the land, I unfortunately didn’t go to school at St Peters, instead attending the local High School in Boonah.

My brother, Noel Haug (1958), was School Captain and Head Boarder Boy and my children Becky (1992), Christian (2011) and Sebastien (2014) all attended St Peters.

AC I’m sure you have taught a few sport stars along the journey. Who are some of the ones that come to mind, and what did they go onto do?

AC Where did you work prior to St Peters?

RH I taught at Ironside Primary for two years in the early 70s then spent 13 years at Camp Hill High School, from 1973- 1985. I had applied for positions at Grammar and St Peters and got the call up from Carson Dron to join St Peters in 1986, which is when I officially started.

AC What is the reason you have remained at St Peters for such a long time?

RH The students and staff at the College are a pleasure to teach and teach with. When students thank you at the end of a lesson or coaching session, why leave?

AC You have seen a few Heads of College in your time. Can you tell us some of the memories you have with them?

RH All of them have been very professional and advanced the College in their own way.

A stand-out moment that I particularly remember was Carlson Dron when he performed a ‘Blues Brothers’ rendition in front of a pack crowd of students and teachers in the gym.

Watch: Cunningham House farewell to Russell Haug.

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During Sally Chandler's tenure we had a Christmas party that had fairy lights and fireworks over the Chapel Forecourt. Not to

RH I taught Angela Russell (1984) to swim.

Angela then went onto compete at three Swimming events at the 1984 Olympics.

Yolane Kukla (2013) competed at 2010 Commonwealth Games and the 2012 Olympics in Swimming.

I've loved time keeping at QGSSSA and AIC swim meets because I've been able to see how far my 'learn to swim' students have come.

I've also coached Jacob Deeb (2022), who was ranked fourth in Australia in 2020 for U16’s shot put.

AC Have you always been involved with HPE and what other responsibilities have you performed around the College?

RH I've held numerous roles at the College - Director of Swimming for seven years; First XI Cricket Coach for seven years (Premiership in 1991, the only one in TAS/AIC event history). I have also coached Athletics, Swimming, Cricket and Softball.

AC I am sure the education system has changed over the years, what are the underlying key elements for helping our students get the best from themselves?

RH Just giving students time and being a listening ear. Knowing a little about their background can really assist in student/ teacher relationships.

AC We are fortunate to have so many great coaches that have played sport at the highest level and now offer their time to our students. Has this always been the case?

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RH We have always had high performance coaches at the College, especially in Swimming. Some of the stand out coaches in my time include, Michael Bohl & Dean Boxall (Olympic), Cliff Millet, Luke Donatini & Mick Palfrey.

AC What campus changes have you seen in your time?

RH When I started in 1986, the College roads were just dirt.

The College Gym was recently completed and boasted to be the best in Queensland. Junior High (Harts Road) Oval was just a dirt patch. The pools have not changed or dated.

Praise for Russ...

From Kerri Schreiber: Percentage of children taught 'How to Swim' by Russell in Brisbane from 1972 to present – 75% by Russell, 15 % by others in Brisbane, 10% by interstate. If you were to survey one in 10 people from Brisbane, they would say that they learnt to swim from Russell.

An unbelievably hard-working man who has remained engaged in the cocurricular life of St Peters above and beyond anyone in its history – what sport has he not helped to coach or coordinate?

This gentle viking's service to his profession and to dedicating his life to making children safe in the water would far out weigh anyone. Russell has been a humble friend and an incredibly dedicated and loving husband and father and I find this inspirational.

From Natalie Benfield: Since joining the HPE crew in 2007 I have always known Russell Haug to be a knowledgeable, compassionate, loyal colleague and friend. It has been such an honour to work with Russ.

‘Big Russ’ (as he's known by the little kids in Primary) has made a significant difference to those keen to swim. Both my children learnt to swim with ‘Big Russ’, with one being extremely challenged when putting his head under water.

Russ’ kind, patient and affirming words eventually lead to greater swimming confidence and a future in which he represented AIC swimming.

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AC What are you going to miss when you put the clipboard down for the last time?

RH I will miss the camaraderie of work mates; the laughter in the staff room. But probably the students you start seeing in Year 7 (sometimes Prep) and then see them graduating as young adults.

Russell it’s been great to speak with you and St Peters has been lucky to have you and your professional experience for so long. Thanks for being part of this Plus Ultra edition in your 51st year of teaching. We wish you all the best.

Please don't be a stranger.

students from the 80s as if it was yesterday. He regularly comes into contact with people he taught as students, and loves a great chat. Some previous students now share the privilege of having Russ teach their own children and, more recently, their grandchildren.

Russell Haug is an amazing guy who thoroughly deserves recognition for his contributions to the College.

From Philippa Guppy: With 36 years of service to St Peters, it is without a doubt that Russ, 'Rusty', has made countless positive connections with students, families and staff and has had such a positive influence on the lives of so many young men and women that have passed through our gates.

Russell has, for many years, taken on the role of 'historian' in our HPE department. He has been so sharp with details of our history here at St Peters; we will really miss having his insight.

Over the years Russell took great joy in sharing so many wonderful memories about past students that he had taught or coached - what their special talents were and the subsequent joy in now teaching their children.

Russ will be thoroughly missed here at St Peters, he is the ultimate human, who always showed the most genuine care and concern for people. In particular, I will personally miss the best and most genuine big bear hugs, laughs and banter that goes on in our staffroom.

From Ben Innes:

Russ does not shy away from any topic or unit of work and inspires others with his commitment to educate and support young people. In particular, he was a key stakeholder in the development of the Year 10 HPE Relationship Unit and, after two decades, this unit is still relevant and thoroughly enjoyable for both staff and students. He takes great pride every year in announcing the couples who have gone on to be married after being introduced during Dance.

Russ, • 100% reliable in all that he does.

• Very caring for the kids, well beyond HPE content. He gets to know his students and their families (most of which he has taught their parents) and he genuinely cares about their wellbeing beyond the classroom.

• Wealth of physical and technical knowledge. Is also our office go too, for anything that needs spell check or punctuation.

His stories of St Peters past, and his connections with both past and present students, are amazing. Russ can remember

These are the things that I think instantly when I think of Russell.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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BOARDING

NAIDOC WEEK 2021 National NAIDOC Week fell during the school holidays this year (411 July), but that didn’t stop the College’s Indigenous boarders from hosting an incredible celebration when classes resumed. We spoke to Year 12 Boarding House Captain, Kianga Bennet, to find out all about it.

KEL SEY BRICKNELL

communications officer

N

AIDOC Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Each year, St Peters students jump at the chance to get involved, but never on the scale we witnessed in Term 3. Complete with performances, facepainting, story-telling and music workshops, the St Peters 2021 NAIDOC Week Celebration was one for the record books. Held in Lower Primary on Monday 26 July, the event captivated our Prep-Year 4 students—groups stayed on well past the end-of-lunch bell, all keen to learn more from our Indigenous Boarding students.

“I didn’t actually expect them to [get so involved],” Kianga told us. “When I was dancing, I saw a couple of them doing the dances with us. That was really cool—they really enjoyed it!”

In the past, NAIDOC Week at the College has been marked by our Boys Boarding students performing for the younger students. This

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year, however, the girls got involved. When asked why they chose this year to come together as a large group, Kianga said it was an idea she and the other Senior boarders hatched in Term 2.

“We did it mainly for the girls,” she said. “We don’t really get to do much—it’s always the boys dancing, so we wanted everyone to be involved this year. For the Indigenous girls in Boarding, it means a lot to them – their culture and everything. We all just wanted to get together and do something special.”

And that, they did! Starting with two dance performances (one for Prep – Year 2, and one for Years 3 – 4), the group of 28 Indigenous boarders shared the message behind this year’s NAIDOC theme, ‘Heal Country’. With just two 30 minute rehearsals under their belts, they performed Gari Gynda Narmi, the German Dance from Badu Island, and the Christine Anu & The Wiggles version of Taba Naba (a crowd-pleaser for the younger students!). Following the

BOARDING

dances, Year 10 student, Kuwanon Dickman, played the didgeridoo, before everyone headed over to Stolz Oval for activities.

The lines of students wanting their facepainted were enormous; the crowds that gathered around the older girls reading Dreamtime stories grew by the minute; a wide-eyed group of students flocked to Kuwanon as he taught them more about the didgeridoo; and all around the activity stations older students could be heard sharing stories about their culture—where they were from and the importance of NAIDOC celebrations.

Acting Deputy Head of Lower Primary, Mr Cameron Glass, was just as surprised by the success of the event as Kianga and the other Indigenous students were.

“The engagement was remarkable and it was moving to see the connections between the older and younger students,” he said. “I have never seen so many of our Indigenous

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students wanting to be involved—I believe the standard was set by the Senior leaders within the group, who encouraged all Indigenous students to participate.”

When asked what this means for the future of NAIDOC celebrations at the College, Kianga said that her fellow boarders were definitely inspired.

“They’re all pretty excited,” she said, “and keen to do it next year, but bigger and better, working their way up to Junior High.”

What a great thing to look forward to!

Thank you to Kianga, Kuwanon and all our Indigenous boarders for gifting us with this event. Thanks also to Girls Boarding Coordinator, Kim Holman; Pastor Silke; and Cameron Glass for assisting the students in their organising efforts. To see what the celebration looked like for yourself, click on the QR Code.

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SPOSA

SPOSA PRESIDENT LLEWELLYN JONES

sposa president and old scholar (1983)

I

n spite of COVID, and maybe in some cases because of it, many in our Old Scholar community have taken the time to reach out to their old school and classmates over the past year.

There have been plenty of opportunities in recent months for doing just that and it has been an honour and a blessing to reconnect with and meet many of our Old Scholars from all generations. We may come from different eras, and identify with different versions of the school uniform, but we have all breathed the same air, received the same message of divine acceptance and the encouragement to be the best we can be for ourselves and to each other.

In respect of being the best, there is no greater public stage for that than the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and it was amazing to see so many St Peters alumni representing our country in Tokyo just three months ago. I certainly felt the St Peters vibe again when I saw (on TV) the College assembly going wild with joy when Ariarne Titmus (2018) won the 400m Freestyle. What a moment! Well done to all our Old Scholars who have gone on to do great things in all fields of endeavour.

Also in July, we held an inaugural SPOSA Service at the College Chapel – presided over by Bishop Paul Smith (1979) who managed to creatively find a purpose for bringing out his old school uniform and weaving it into the sermon.

Recent SPOSA Events: The 75th Anniversary Cocktail function in the Chapel Forecourt (aka The Quadrangle), on Friday 17 September, was a tremendous success as evidenced by the challenge of encouraging people that it was time to go home, even after the bar closed! It was wonderful to hear from Kathie Newton (1993), David Radke (1978) and Rupert Hoare (2019).

On the following Sunday we sang a rousing 'Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer', celebrated the Confirmation of Pastor Metzner’s grandchildren and paused to remember the long list of Old Scholars who are no longer with us.

Guided tours of the College campus were particularly enjoyed by an Old Scholar from

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Singapore who had worked alongside the fabled architect of the College Chapel, Dr Karl Langer.

The Reunion lunch provided an opportunity for the Head of College to thank his mum for coming back to her old school and was well attended by Old Scholars celebrating significant milestone anniversaries. We were honoured to have at least one Old Scholar from 1945 in attendance.

Saturday 9 October was a big hit in Café 45 (aka The Refectory). Over 130 guests came in fancy dress to the SPOSA/P&F Trivia Evening and charity fund-raiser. Attended mostly by parents of current students, approximately half of these were Old Scholars.

Much fun was had by all thanks to our host Kat Feeney, from ABC Radio (also a St Peters mum), and featured video questions posed by teachers and Old Scholars – including some from Old Scholars working at Melbourne hospitals in full COVID PPE! This event deserves to be repeated as a great collaboration between SPOSA and the P&F. Full credit goes to Rob Barber (1990) President of the P&F for conceiving and championing it to the hilt.

Final Weeks of 2021 As we close in on the last few weeks of 2021, we thank the SPOSA Committee, most of whom have signed on for another year.

Our special thanks also to our wonderful Alumni Officers, Rowena Lester and Virginia Cordingley. Virginia has certainly 'hit the ground running' since she started with us earlier this year!

We are particularly grateful for the service of Nicky Bricknell who retires from the SPOSA committee this year after many years of dedication to the SPOSA organisation - a former President, Organiser, Fundraiser, Historian, Editor and Knower of a Great Many Things! Nicky, has been at the core of SPOSA for so long – and will forever be an indelible part of our fabric.

We wish the current Seniors well with their exams and look forward to welcoming a new cohort of Old Scholars.

Best wishes to you all, hope to see you at Carols Under the Stars on Sunday 28 Nov.

SPOSA 75 YEAR

TIMELINE 1940s

75 YEARS OF MEMORIES

20 FEBRUARY, 1945 On this day, St Peters Lutheran College was officially opened and welcomed its first 56 students and eight staff (above). Up un�l 1950, the school cohort was almost en�rely made up of Lutheran Boarding students. If people beyond the church heard of St Peters, > First Headmaster: most assumed it was a ‘German’ school.

Mr WC Schneider

CURRICULUM The broadening of the curriculum started in 1982 with the introduc�on of Graphics, French, Shop A (Manual Arts), Accoun�ng, Agriculture, Animal Produc�on and Social Maths.

POCKET MONEY Boarders were not allowed to keep money in the dormitories. Instead a ‘pocket money’ fund had to be kept with the College. Each stuent was allocated £2 (later raised to £3) per term to cover fares and other necessary expenses...like haircuts!

1948

1961

CHAPEL OPENING

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Bill Lohe installed as the second Headmaster of St Peters. Bill oversaw a great deal of growth during his years as Headmaster, including the ini�al research on the outdoor educa�on concept.

St Peters had grown to a total of 400 students by 1961, with the majority of these s�ll being boarders. The emphasis on family and community was a priority of the Headmaster at the �me, Bill Lohe, as it is today.

The Chapel opening took place on Sunday 18 February, 1968. Around 2,000 people gathered for this momentous occasion which was a�ended by the builder, Mr W Groom, and the architect, Dr Karl Langer, as well as Pastor Mayer, the President-General of the Lutheran Church of Australia, Dr M Lohe, and the College Council Chairman, Pastor Dohler. The 80 foot tower at the side of the Chapel to this day remains a prominent feature in the skyline of surrounding suburbs.

Due to increasing demand, a Lower Primary school was established in 1973 and the Upper Primary school then followed in 1978, under the expert guidance of Wendy Roehrs. The Junior School started with just 42 students and now educates over 450 students each year.

1950s

Standing two-stories, 106 feet by 28 feet, Luther House was errected and aptly named. Here she would stand for the next 72 years, un�l her demoli�on in 2020, making room for The Centre for Learning and Innova�on currently being built.

1960s

FIRST FEMALE HOC

The Gymnasium was completed in 1982. In addi�on, Oval 1 (now Mayer Oval) and the grandstand were completed in 1983, and the 50m Pool was ready for use in 1985.

Sally Chandler was installed as Ac�ng Head of College in 1994, taking over from Dr Carson Dron, un�l permanently instated in 1995.

1997 St Peters now had over 1,500 students enrolled, with 76% of these being ‘day bugs’.

1990s

CHAPEL DRAMA

UNIFORMS

1995

Teacher, Chris Chapman, took up the reins as Coach/Director of Chapel Drama - a celebra�on of faith - in 1983 through un�l its culmina�on in the late 2000s.

The school uniform changed significantly in 1990. The long standing maroon dress and blue shirts were both replaced with a white material with fine maroon stripe. Hats were re-introduced and became compulsory.

A�er over 20 years of huge input and generosity from the Fielke family, 1995 was the final year that students a�ended the Mt Binga property for various school camps. Mt Binga was phased out a�er the purchase of 254 hectares at Ironbark.

1970s

1958

EXPANSION

CARSON DRON

IRONBARK

The school’s third Chaplain, Pastor Reinhard Mayer, was inducted.

Reini is an Old Scholar, much loved past Staff Member of St Peters, and s�ll very ac�ve in the College community today.

The 1960’s was a decade of major development within the College campus.

The 25m Pool opened in 1965, the Refectory (now Café 45) was constructed, with sea�ng capacity for 400 people, new Girls Dormitories and a Science Block were built, and the Chapel was completed in 1968.

Carson Dron, St Peters’ third and longest serving Headmaster, was installed on 25 October, 1970. Dr Dron served as Headmaster for 24 years, re�ring in 1994 a�er bringing extensive innova�on to St Peters, including the introduc�on of Ironbark and the Middle School, as well as construc�on of numerous facili�es including the 50m pool.

Now synonymous with St Peters, Ironbark was established a�er the ini�al pilot program in 1974. The property, located just outside of Crows Nest in Qld, started off as a full Term program in Year 10, and has evolved over the years to now provide a five week program to Year 9 students.

> Pastor Mayer (bottom left) with other new staff in 1958.

MORE EXPANSION

1980s

1955

HERBSFEST

2008

PAC OPENING

SWIMMING SUCCESS

The much loved and long running annual Autumn fair, Herbs�est, came to an end in 2002. Herbs�est helped to foster a strong community spirit. The fair had everthing from Trash & Treasure to rides, spor�ng matches and musical performances.

Enrolments for the Indooroopilly campus reached a new record of 2,000 students on 1 May. Numbers fluctuated between 2008 – 2018, however since then have not dropped under this 2,000 student milestone.

The state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre opened on 1 September, 2013. Equipped with an Auditorium, Theatre�e, Amphitheatre, and servery, it was a welcome and long awaited addi�on to the campus, suppor�ng the College’s excep�onal Music and Drama programs.

In 2021, St Peters girls won their eighth consecu�ve QGSSSA Swimming Championship, while the boys won their fi�h consecu�ve AIC Championship, se�ng new records in the process.

2000s

2010s

2020s

2007

SPRINGFIELD CAMPUS

75th ANNIVERSARY

ENROLMENTS

The purpose-built Prep Centre was opened at the Indooroopilly campus. The Centre con�nues to impress both exis�ng and new parents to the school.

The Springfield College campus was offically opened with their own Founders Day on 20 February 2008.

Le�, St Peters Indooroopilly Founding Scholar, Neville Stallman, meets one of Springfield’s first future Old Scholars, David Wells (2012).

Due to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, most of the College celebra�ons were cancelled or postponed. For the first �me, the Senior Valedictory Service was held on Harts Road oval on 30 November and students and staff were required to wear masks to stop the spread.

What a difference 76 years makes. From a total of 56 students in 1945, St Peters Indooroopilly’s enrolments now total 2,213 including 124 boarders, while Springfield has 662 students enrolled.

TIMELINE CONTINUED PLUS ULTRA COVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Pictured (top row L-R): The Gymnasium, 1983; Middle School, 1980; Chapel Opening, 1968; Ironbark, 1976; (middle row L-R): Stage II of Junior School, 1978; Langer Library, 1972; (bo�om row, L-R): Lohe House, 1973; Performing Arts Centre opening, 2013; Architect’s impression of what the future Centre for Learning and Innova�on will look like, 2022.

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17 SHORT ST SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 AUSTRALI A PO BOX 930 SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 AUSTRALI A P +61 7 5532 2044 / ABN 35 071 453 257

DAT E : 19/ 2/ 20

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_ PRE L I MI NARY I S S UE NOT F OR CONS T RUCT I ON

ST PETERS LUTHERAN COLLEGE

INNOVATION CENTRE & CAMPUS HEART

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Felicity Volk (1981) Australian Ambassador to Nepal Mark Roehrs (1979) Leader in Educa�on and Science Architecture Anna (Srathy) John (2010) Bi-Ligngual Lawyer in Amsterdam James Sco� (1985) Trapped in Himalayas for 43 days without food or company Stephanie Brantz (1988) Television Sports Presenter Peter Prove (1979) Director, Interna�onal Affairs, World Council of Churches (WCC) Liz Cantor (2000) Television Presenter Guy Edmonds (2000) Actor/Writer/Director Dr Pamela Toliman (1998) Post-Doctorate Scien�st in Papua New Guinea Ben Heim (2011) Musician Sally Chandler (2002) First Female Head of College Dr Pranavan Palamuthusingam (2002) Youngest Fellow admi�ed to General Surgery of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons Hon Jus�ce Shan Tennent (1968) Tasmania’s first female Judge Peter Roennfeldt (1974) Music Professor Ariarne Titmus (2018) 2020 Olympic Swimmer Conrad Lohe Esq. (1963) Crown Solicitor Shane Gould AM MBE (1973) 1972 Olympic Swimmer Pita Taufatofua (2000) Olympic Athlete - Taekwondo (2016 & 2020) and Cross-Country Skiing (2018) Nicky Hughes (1984) Rower and SPOSA Alumni Chris No�e (2005) High-jumper and Model Georgia Bohl (2014) 2016 Olympic Swimmer Nkosana Mafico (2011) Founded Council for the Young Africans Living Abroad (CYALA) Pam Carden (1976) One of Ironbark pilot students; Previous Head of Primary Years Brody Warren (2007) A�aché to the Secretary General at Hague Conference on Private Ins�tu�onal Law Maxine Seear (2001) 2004 Olympic Triathlete Mal Michael (1994) AFL Player Lisa Gasteen (1975) Opera Singer Hon Steven Ciobo (1991) Former Member of Parliament Heidi Middleton (1988) Co-Founder of sass & bide Adam Spackman (2006) AFL Player Sue Hopper Lewis (1972) 1972 Olympic Swimmer Dr Ken Koh (1989) General Prac��oner Rebecca Sparrow (1989) Author Bart Philemon (1965) PNG Poli�cian Madison Wilson OAM (2011) 2016 & 2020 Olympic Swimmer Moses Sorovi (2013) Rugby Player

ISSUE

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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37 Oriel Morrison (1991) CNBC Business Presenter based in Singapore 38 Craig Horner (2000) Actor/Producer 39 Dr Monique Beedles (1991) Thought Leader in Asset Management 40 Rod Bligh (1979) Founding Director Structure at Bligh Tanner 41 Renee Blackman (1989) CEO of Gidgee Healing 42 Andrew Schultz (1977) Composer 43 Ingrid Richards (1991) Architect 44 Carson Dron (1994) Longest serving Head of College 45 Ka�e Greenwood (1998) Head of Delega�on, Interna�onal Federa�on of Red Cross and Red Crescent Socie�es 46 Tom Iggulden (1990) Walkley Award Winning Journalist 47 Bree Tomasel (2006) Radio DJ in New Zealand 48 Jason Plummer (1986) 1988 Olympic Swimmer 49 Brooke Stockham (1999) 2000 Paralympic Swimmer 50 Paul Smith (1979) Lutheran Bishop-elect of Australia and New Zealand 51 Mikhara Ramsing (2008) Social Entrepreneur and Ac�vist 52 Mark Harris (1967) NRL Great 53 Gail Burke (1953) Teacher 54 Michael Henao (1998) Current Chef de Mission of Team PNG to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games (as well as Chairman, Digicel PNG Founda�on) 55 Greta Bodey (2012) AFLW Player 56 Sam Atwell (1996) Actor/Producer/Writer/Director 57 Dr Anna High (2000) Author and Academic 58 Neville Stallman (1949) St Peters’ first student and Microbiologist 59 Sigrid Thornton (1975) Actress 60 Jake Sim (2020) Member of K-Pop band, Enhypen 61 Dr Sarah Whitelaw (1991) Doctor and Vice President of AMA (Victoria) 62 Yana Apo MBE (1957) Pastor in Papua New Guinea 63 Lydia Hayward (2006) PhD in Social Psychology 64 Noel Pearson (1982) Lawyer and Land Rights Ac�vist 65 Helene Ma�ers (1979) Life Member of Kodály 66 Chris Bligh (1982) Architect 67 Dr Janet Jukes OAM (1983) CEO of Rela�onship Ma�ers 68 Tim Munro (1995) Grammy Award Winning Musician 69 Alec Knight (2013) NYC Ballet dancer 70 Dane Bird-Smith (2009) 2016 Olympic Walker

SPOSA

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REUNION WEEKEND

VIRGINIA CORDINGLEY

alumni and archives officer

A

fter much uncertainty, we were grateful to be able to run this year's Reunion Weekend, albeit on a more condensed schedule than in the past.

The weekend began with a wonderful cocktail party to celebrate 75 years of the St Peters Old Scholars Association. Attendees ranged from Old Scholars from the 1950s cohort to our newest members from 2020.

There were stories from our guest speakers Rupert Hoare (2019), Kathie Newton (1994) and David Radke (1978) who reminisced about their fond memories of St Peters.

Drinks were flowing, stories enhanced as the memories came flooding back and classmates who hadn’t seen each other for years rekindled friendships.

Tim Kotzur welcomed the crowd and told of his own personal connections to the school.

The Chapel bell rang to signal the beginning of a memorable video display which showed many achievements and highlights of what has made our College what it is today. It was the start of what was going to be a reunion weekend to remember.

Sunday morning we returned to continue the festivities and honour our College in the form of a Chapel service. The service included confirmation and we paid our respects to those classmates we have said farewell to. This was followed by a morning tea of freshly made scones with jam and Chantilly cream to be shared with the

Sunday congregation. Three of our Prefects - Isabella Barber, Carter Lui and Jake Harford - gave up their holiday time to escort some of our Old Scholars through the campus, including the hallways of Ross Roy where some of our guests used to live when they were boarders. As you can imagine they were suitably impressed by the state of the art PAC and insight of the new Centre for Learning and Innovation, currently under construction. A special mention needs to be made to Mrs Gloria Curtis (1948) who was our oldest Old Scholar in attendance at the Reunion Weekend. Mrs Curtis was one of the first students at St Peters in 1946 and used to sleep in the verandahs of Ross Roy. Her son Alan drove her down from the Sunshine Coast for the day so she could revisit the school she holds so fondly in her heart.

Lunch was next on the agenda and a celebration of our golden, diamond and platinum graduates. Tim Kotzur launched Nicky Bricknell's book, Early Days Part One, which is the story of the first five years of St Peters. Plenty of stories and smiles over a meal in the old refectory and Reunion Weekend was well and truly back.

It was a weekend to cherish and appreciate as we learn to live for today. One thing we know is that friendships born at St Peters Lutheran College are life long no matter the distance or time passed. For this we are eternally grateful.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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SPOSA

LEADING THE WAY IN PNG: DR. PAMELA TOLIMAN The World Bank interviewed medical researcher and Old Scholar, Dr. Pamela Toliman (1998), for International Women's Day earlier this year. With permission, we have reproduced the interview below.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

D

r Pamela Toliman, a recipient of the Allison Sudradjat Prize for her outstanding scholarship, has completed a PhD researching innovative approaches for cervical cancer screening in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women.

Now, the mother of two, and self-confessed foodie, is using the prize for post-doctoral research into COVID-19 population trends in PNG while supporting the country’s diagnostic response to the pandemic.

How did you end up working in medical research?

I'm from Rabaul in East New Britain Province, but I spent a lot of time in Australia for my education. I went to high school at St Peters Lutheran College in Brisbane, which has a long history of connection to PNG. Then I attended The University of Queensland, where I did a Bachelor of Science, majoring in molecular genetics and microbiology, and a Bachelor of Arts, with a double major in sociology and gender studies.

At the end of my studies, I had a really strong conviction to move back to PNG. I had a strong sense of wanting to contribute to development in my country. I hadn't worked out how exactly, but I spoke with a few scientists at the PNG Institute of Medical Research and they shared the sort of work they were doing, and it just spoke to me. I got a job there and I've been working at the Institute in Goroka for close to 20 years.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

What inspires you about medical research work?

The Institute is small, but we do real evidence-based research, and in a country like PNG, with such a small health budget, you need to be able to use the money that you have well. I earnestly believe in the mission and mandate of this place. I've been able to be involved in research that has a direct and tangible impact on the lives of the people in this country, particularly women and girls.

"

I've been able to be involved in research that has a direct and tangible impact on the lives of the people in this country, particularly women and girls.

I specialise in the space of sexually-transmitted infections and reproductive health, and seven years ago I began working in the cervical cancer screening space and decided to base my PhD on it. I have always had a burden on my heart to do more for women and girls in PNG, and cervical cancer exemplifies how women are often forgotten in society.

SPOSA

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Pictured (left-right): Pamela Toliman, 2021; Sam Chenoweth and Pamela - School Captains in 1998; Pamela was a boarder and a keen member of the Basketball and Hockey teams as well as the PNG Choir (above; top row, second from left).

Why is researching cervical cancer screening in PNG so important?

Visit Pamela's Instagram page, For the Love of Loaves, where she shares food from her kitchen and garden.

Cervical cancer is a preventable cancer and the fact that women and young girls are being affected by this disease is just inexcusable.

That's the case throughout the world, but anecdotal evidence suggests that between 1500 and 2000 women die every year in PNG from cervical cancer. That is just what we can count; there are many, many cases in rural PNG that are not counted. Half of our population is [at risk of being] affected by this disease, but we have yet to establish a prevention program, a screening program or a treatment program for cervical cancer in PNG. You need to be outraged. You absolutely need to be outraged by what you see and be moved to do something about it. We need to have a mechanism for screening women and detecting cervical changes early and have ways of treating women before it advances to cancer. I'm so blessed to be part of a team that believes in the goal, which is to establish a national screening program for this country.

What advice would you give Pacific women in 2021?

My biggest lesson coming out of 2020 is balancing self-care with being a mother and work. It’s something that I really struggle with. Just making sure that you're okay – physically, mentally, emotionally is really, really important.

As women in the Pacific, we're just natural givers to our family, to our communities and sometimes that happens at the expense of our own health and well-being. If you were to fall over; imagine what would happen to your family.

The great thing about the test we have been researching and trialing is that women can come to the health center and take a selfcollected swab, and then have a result within an hour. We've basically tried to create a test that doesn't cost women time because time is money. For PNG women it's time away from family and time that they could be at the market selling produce, for example.

I think that would be my message to myself, as well to my sisters, to my mothers, to my daughters: just for a moment, go take care of yourself.

Finally, what do you miss most about PNG when you are away from home?

When I was in Australia, I always missed PNG food. I actually have a little food blog called For the Love of Loaves, where I share recipes of how to make things from what you can grow and source in the highlands of PNG, because most of the time you can't get all the ingredients. I revamp recipes that you can do without needing all the ingredients like making ricotta from scratch or making your own buttermilk. I actually started making jam, bringing it into work and selling it, and it just ended up being this whole thing.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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SPOSA

COMING FULL CIRCLE From X-Factor hopeful to Youth Pastor at Riverlife Baptist Church and Red Frog Crew Member throughout, Scott McKinnon has been busy since graduating St Peters in 2012.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

A

fter Scott finished his Senior year in 2012, he commenced an Applied Science degree at UQ thinking it might lead him into a career as a Physiotherapist.

However, towards the end of 2013, Scott knew this wasn’t the path he wanted to take.

“It was good fun while it lasted, but it wasn’t quite right,” Scott explains.

With nothing specifically in mind of what he did want to pursue, Scott and two other friends (fellow St Peters Old Scholars, Daniel Tucker and Charlie Yeates) took a few months off their studies. During this time, they did a bit of travelling and decided to audition for The X Factor. They were reasonably successful. Landing in the top 50 after their original audition and a subsequent performance, Atlas, the name of their vocal group, was very popular with the crowd, but it wasn’t meant to be.

After the ‘bit of fun’ he had on The X Factor, Scott was keen to jump into something else.

The self-confessed jack-of-all-trades ended up at a university Bible College Open Night.

“I was like, yes. This is me,” Scott says.

Having travelled to parts of Asia for churchrelated community mission trips in the past, Scott thought that continuing this kind of work would be perfect. Then, half way through his Ministry degree, he felt like the pull was aimed more locally.

“My wife, Annie (Annelise Peck, 2011), and I were going to help in third world nations but then I thought, ‘how can I change the world over there when there is so much need in my own town?’,” – so, in Brisbane they remained.

Eventually there was an opening at Riverlife Baptist Church (previously known as Kenmore Baptist Church), the same church Scott has been attending for 22 years. After five years on staff, he is now a Youth Pastor.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

“I long to see individuals find freedom in Christ, but more than that, to see them step into their calling,” Scott is quoted as saying on the Riverlife website.

"

... how can I change the world over there when there is so much need in my own town?"

Scott was St Peters' Faith Captain in 2012, so it’s not such a far step from the past that he has wandered. And he also still sings. Most lately with his wife, Annie. With strong ties to the community, it is no wonder Scott also loves his voluntary work with Red Frogs.

Red Frogs is a not-for-profit foundation that provides relief, safety and support to young people during Schoolies week.

“We visit high schools and give education talks specific to Red Frogs and Party Safe.

Things like how to be safe, how to survive, what to look out for and, you know, how not to come back with too many unwanted situations,” Scott explains.

Up to 45% of high schools are offering these talks prior to the annual Schoolies Week and Riverlife endorses Scott volunteering and attending the week-long event on the Gold Coast to lead his own team. Being a father of two himself, Scott firmly believes in this safeguarding and protection of our youth.

“These guys are our next CEOs, Prime Ministers, doctors and tradies and we really just believe that if we can set them up well, then our whole society, and whole nation will be better off.”

Scott goes on to say that the Red Frogs are not there to parent the students, just

SPOSA

Pictured (clockwise from top left):Scott, in his role as a Red Frog Crew Member, talking to last year's St Peters Seniors about their upcoming Schoolies Week; In his role as Youth Pastor; QR code - Click to listen; 2012 Year 12 portrait photo; Scott and his wife, Annie.

Listen to Scott and Annie's debut recording, Fulfilled

to help them out in tricky situations and support them – with pancake breakfasts, room clean-ups, walking home safely – where they can before their ‘next big step into freedom’.

Check out the Old Scholars of Atlas performing on The X Factor in 2014

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This newly found freedom that school-leavers experience after graduation prompted Riverlife and Scott to create Crossover – a course that helps with the transition between school and life as a young adult.

“A lot of ex-students just get a bit lost in those months between high school finishing and uni starting,” Scott explains, adding that some people can’t find jobs and don’t find ‘their’ group of people. “They graduate

and all the cohort just dissipates and all of a sudden no one is next to them every lunchtime anymore.”

Crossover is a ten-week life skills video course that discusses probing questions newly graduated students might ask about life ahead and how to manage their new commitments…with no teachers chasing them to draft assignments anymore. It also encourages the participants into maintain connections outside of school and within their faith.

You can find Scott at Riverlife Baptist Church, 47 Jennifer St, Seventeen Mile Rocks or riverlifechurch.org.au.

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SPOSA

BIRTHS, DEATHS AND MARRIAGES Births Old Scholar, Aaron Dickson-Delaney (2006), and his wife recently had a son, Archer, who will be baptised in the St Peters Chapel. We send our congratulations to Aaron and his family.

Indooroopilly Year 6 Teacher, Orhan Memedovski and wife, ShannonMarie, welcomed the arrival of their baby girl, Amaya (Ah my ah) – Marie Memedovski born on 10 October at 4:07am, weighing 3.2 kilos. Everyone is doing well and enjoying the very early stages of being a new family.

We are pleased to introduce you all to Eve Izatt, born Tuesday 12 October at 10.13am after a quick three hour labour. Eve weighed in at 2.8kgs.

Elvie’s father decided to send her to St Peters to be confirmed because the petrol rationing during the war, meant it was difficult for her to get to Kingaroy for confirmation lessons. Her uncle from Yarraman was able to attend the confirmation service to represent the family. At 12 years of age, Elvie had to travel home to Kingaroy by train, alone. This meant a walk to the station at Indooroopilly to catch a train filled with soldiers and usually nowhere to sit. Elvie remembers the day peace was declared and the ringing of the bells all over Brisbane to celebrate.

Elvie worked as a dental nurse for a practice in Kingaroy.

There was no formal training then and she learnt on the job. Elvie married Howard Archbold and they had two sons, Cameron and Rowan. They moved to Wynnum where they lived for the rest of their lives. Elvie is remembered by her family as a quiet, caring person.

Ted Prenzler (1949) 26/08/31 – 12/05/21

Congratulations to Kym, Doug and big sister Olive on her safe arrival.

Beryl Smith (Briese, 1953) 20/12/35 – 12/06/21

We remember

Flo Lau (1961) 09/12/42 – 21/02/20

Elvie Archbold (Harch, 1949) 05/03/32 – 30/04/21 Elvie was born in Kingaroy and attended Booie State School for most of her Primary School education. Elvie was a Foundation student, attending St Peters for her Scholarship year in 1945. In the latter part of the 1940’s, when the polio epidemic was raging, Elvie contracted polio. She was treated at Sister Kenny’s polio clinic and recovered reasonably well although she wore a brace on her leg for some time.

William Ratcliffe (1969) 29/02/52 – 05/06/21 Sean Wilson (2016) 27/06/99 – 04/06/21 Rosalie Zahnow passed away recently. Rosalie was one of the first women to work in Ross Roy in 1945 and lived in the sub attic off the kitchen with Ann Radke.

Fuller eulogies will appear in the SPOSA Bulletin.

Your Brain in Mind Clinic (opening late November 2021): - Dementia prevention, assessment and management - Suite 309, Westside Private Hospital, 32 Morrow Street, Taringa, QLD, 4068 - Ph: 07 3130 2800 - Email: reception@yourbraininmind.com.au - Website: yourbraininmind.com.au Book: - Mind Your Brain, The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia, UQ Press, 2021 (available at all good bookstores and online) App: - BrainScan (available on iOS app store)

Plus Ultra | November 2021

ST PETERS LUTHERAN COLLEGE PRESENTS 53

Carols

UNDER THE STARS SUNDAY 28 NOVEMBER HOSTED AND PERFORMED BY

JASON BARRY-SMITH & KATIE STENZEL ACCOMPANIED BY ST PETERS CAROLS ORCHESTRA & CHOIR

FOOD TRUCKS 4:00-8:00PM RIDES & GAMES 4:00-6:00PM CAROLS 6:45-8:00PM

FREE

EVENT !

SANTA | CHRISTMAS LIGHTS | CRAFT AND LOTS MORE!

BYO BLANKET OR CHAIRS

STOLZ OVAL, ST PETERS INDOOROOPILLY Plus Ultra | November 2021 (ENTRY VIA LAMBERT ROAD)

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COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

MOTHER SON BREAKFAST C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

O

n Tuesday 20 July, we welcomed over 220 mothers and their sons to Cafe 45 for the Mother Son Breakfast.

This year's guest speaker was Paralympic Rugby player, Chris Bond, who regaled us with his sporting experiences and the story of how he lost his legs and fingers. Before Chris was an international wheelchair rugby star, he was a 19-year-old battling acute promyelocytic leukaemia. He survived, but lost his left hand, right fingers and legs below the knees to a bacterial infection.

Now, Chris is a successful wheelchair rugby player - most recently playing at the Tokyo Paralympics -public speaker and, husband and father.

Thank you to all who attended the breakfast. We look forward to seeing you again next year.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

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ST PETERS SPORTS LUNCH

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

W

ith a legendary line-up of guest speakers - Hayley Lewis, Laura Geitz, Alastair Lynch, Dan Herbert and Dave Donaghy - and special guest attendees Ariarne Titmus, Dean Boxall, Maxine Seear, Tracey Bruce, Patti Farrell, Chris 'Buddha' Handy and Sam Cordingley - the annual

Sports Lunch was a huge success, raising more than $20,000 for Sport at St Peters.

Thanks to all our sponsors and donors without whom the day would not have been such a huge hit.

We look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

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COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

75 + 1 YEARS ANNIVERSARY GALA BALL Two years in the making clearly promoted a build-up of excitement and expectation and the St Peters Gala Ball delivered a cracking night of great entertainment, food, company and a wonderful donation to Youngcare.

C A SSIE T WEMLOW

publications officer

A

s Frankie Valli sang, 'Oh what a night!'

On Saturday 23 October over 400 of our St Peters community gathered at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in their finest gowns and suits to celebrate the, postponed (from 2020), 75 year Anniversary Gala Ball.

The evening's entertainment kept everyone guessing and engaged with shows from magician, Jason Gray, and the Baker Boys Band who played classic covers well into the night. Most importantly, we had great success in terms of raising almost $50,000 for nominated charity, Youngcare.

A huge thank you to the incredible Kat Feeney who took on the role as Master of Ceremonies for the night. Her funny, engaging personality kept the evening moving —thank you, Kat! A huge thank you to Ray White Springfield, Hurom, Your Brain in Mind, the Tziolis family and Steele Wrobel for sponsoring the event—without your assistance, the night would not have come together as well as it did. A final thank you to all our prize donors and supporters. The prizes you donated to our raffles and auctions were incredible and we know there are a lot of happy people in our community, keen to make good use of their electric scooter and Gabba Corporate box tickets.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

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COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

SPOSA AND P&F TRIVIA NIGHT Sean Connery’s first job was a coffin polisher – True or false? Name the animal which is born but cannot reproduce? Just, two of the many thought-provoking questions from the inaugural P&F and SPOSA Trivia night on Saturday 9 October.

ROBERT BARBER

p&f president indooroopilly

T

he night was a true celebration of the College community with 15 teams coming dressed as their chosen decade.

1340’s team, the 'St Plaguers' brought up the chronological rear, with teams from 20s-90’s all being well represented. 'Pac Man Posse' won the prize for best dressed table with 'Love, Peace & Mungbeans' coming a close second.

It was great to see members of the St Peters Leadership Team at Trivia Night - Mr Kotzur, Mr and Mrs Delaney and, Mrs Aishford - who were hosted by Llewellyn Jones (SPOSA President) on the SPOSA table. After a challenging year it was great to see them all relaxing and having some fun.

Plus Ultra | November 2021

Competition was fierce with 1970s group 'Let’s Get Quizzical' taking out the prize of trivia champions with $1,000 going to their chosen charity – Elorac Place Community Centre.

Kat Feeney did a sensational job as MC – funny, entertaining, and full of energy. The perfect host for such an event.

Thank you to the St Peters teachers and staff who took the time to record trivia questions.

Thank you also to Councillor James McKay for his support.

This is the first time the P&F and SPOSA have collaborated in putting together an event, and we look forward to working together in the future.

PRESENTS

THANK

YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS OF THE 2021 ST PETERS-HIGGINS GOLF DAY

We’d like to say thank you to the wonderful St Peters’ community for their generous support & congratulations to the winners of the live auction items!

R AY W H I T E S P R I N G F I E L D.C O M

SPRINGFIELD