The Elephant - Semester 2, 2015

Semester 2, 2015

Innovation

Global Thinking

Beyond Boundaries

The DIGI Zone

Sister School exchange

The Peak Experience

Semester 2, 2015

CONTENTS 12. Innovation The DIGI Zone

22. Sports Taking it to the next level

13. Middle Years Developing creative thinking

23. House News House reflection

14. Senior School Global thinking

24. Beyond Boundaries

2. Chairman’s report 3. From the Principal Empowering women 4. Thank you and good-bye 5. 2015 VCE results

16. Food Technology Food, glorious food!

6. Principal announcement 7. It takes 2 8. 2016 Leaders

17. Music News Semester 2 musical highlights

9. Early Learning Centre Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary

18. Performing Arts Dirk Smirk – Secret Agent

10. Early Years Leading self and others

20. Visual Arts VCE Art and Design Exhibition

The DAISY CHAIN

26. Parents and Friends News 28. Student Highlights 30. TRAK Chat 34. Boarding House News Joan Ansett Hall 35. Events Calendar

The Daisy Chain, the Principal’s monthly blog has been an exciting development and a great way way for our families and Collegians to stay connected with all of the current activity around the school. We encourage you all to view the latest edition which can be found on our home page www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au

Acknowledgements Editor: Community Office Editorial contributors: Staff, students and community members Photography: Community Office, Mark Chew, Cliff Elliott, Michael Moynihan, staff and students Design: Sierra Delta – www.sierradelta.com.au Print: Southern Colour – www.southerncolour.com.au

Toorak College Old Mornington Road, Mount Eliza, VIC, 3930 PO Box 150, Mount Eliza, VIC, 3930 Senior School: (03) 9788 7200 | Wardle House: (03) 9788 7258 www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au www.facebook.com/toorakcollegemteliza www.youtube.com/user/ToorakCollege1 CRICOS provider code: 00349D CRICOS course code: 005454G

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TC

SNIPPETS

So You Think You Can Dance showcased some amazing talent.

Year 2 students get to tinker in the DIGI Zone which was launched in July.

Wardle House students celebrated with some friendly rivalry on Footy Day.

Toorak College shone at the VEIS Showjumping competition.

Product Design and Technology students paraded their garments in the Cloisters.

Chairman’s report We have never been better positioned to achieve enduring and long lasting success.

At Toorak College, we have reclaimed our position as consistently the top performing school on the Mornington Peninsula and we have grown our enrolment numbers to secure a sustainable future.

The first of our major building projects commenced in Term 4 with the construction of our new competition standard athletic track, hockey and sports field complimenting our existing excellent facilities for sport. Our new oval would be a stand out school facility for any school but will also provide a muchneeded resource for our local community.

When students return in Term 1, 2016 they will be able to enjoy a new Year 7 and 8 outdoor space, including; seating, games areas, a kitchen garden and places to play and socialise. New decking will join these areas with the Norman Carson Library.

Students are making full use of our brand new makerspace and to assist with innovation and engineering projects, we are expanding the DIGI Zone into the courtyard between the Marjorie Williams Centre and the Music Centre. This area will be further enhanced by the addition of an outdoor leisure space complete with a vertical garden, seating, and a sculpture.

The Toorak College Parents and Friends have kick-started this redevelopment by making a generous gift of $25,000 through fundraising efforts of the past year.

The success of our Middle Years program has seen an unprecedented demand for enrolments resulting in the need to build an additional Year 6 classroom in Wardle House. This new classroom will be ready for Term 1 2016 and will integrate with the existing Wardle House architecture to provide a high quality, well resourced learning space accommodating three Year 5 classes and three Year 6 classes.

Toorak College has had another very successful year. There is no longer a sense of what we need to do but rather a passion for what we want to achieve.

Peter Wickenden Chairman of the Board of Directors 2 Chairman’s report

Empowering women Toorak girls pursue happiness, not as an end in itself but the result of engagement and achievement.

Our innovative programs including specialised girls education in the Middle Years, the inclusion of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and the exposure of girls to business and commerce through authentic real world partnerships gives our graduates a head start in life beyond school.

Toorak College remains the only school on the Mornington Peninsula offering specialised sporting programs and elite sporting pathways for girls, but more than that our challenge and service programs including The Hillary Challenge, Great Vic Bike Ride, Beyond Boundaries, World Challenge and Active for Life programs ensure that our girls integrate physical activity into their lives for future health and wellbeing.

We are assured in our identity as a leading girls’ school preparing young women for a future that we can only imagine.

Our girls emerge world ready, prepared to take advantage of all opportunities. We know that forty percent of today’s jobs will no longer exist in the not too distant future. Automation will replace many existing occupations. Our graduates will succeed by being agile problem solvers and innovators who are capable of working together to approach challenge with critical and creative thinking skills. Trial and error will become the new normal as they embrace failure with resilience.

The Toorak ‘can do’ spirit along with the networks and friendships forged at Toorak College set our graduates up to thrive in complex and challenging times. I wish the graduating Class of 2015 every success for the future.

At Speech Night this year we celebrated the theme of ‘Empowering Women’ through a video and musical adaptation of Helen Reddy and Ray Burton’s famous anthem of the 1970’s ‘I am Woman’. The lyrics of this song remain as relevant as ever and resonate with the tradition of Toorak College graduates who demonstrate the indefatigable spirit of giving one hundred percent, each day.

I know I leave Toorak College well positioned for future success under new leadership. I thank the whole Toorak College community for the way I have been welcomed and the support, friendship and confidence you have shown me. I will take with me only fond memories when I leave Toorak College at the end of 2015. It is has been an enormous privilege to serve this community.

Over our 140 year history, our Collegians have triumphed through difficulties and succeeded not only in their own personal and professional lives but also in the service of others. This is not accidental but is a product of a school where every girl matters.

Where programs, curriculum, resources and facilities are designed to meet the needs of young women. Our graduates thrive because they embrace struggle as challenge. They pursue happiness, not as an end in itself but the result of engagement and achievement.

Helen Carmody Principal

3 Principal’s report

Thank you and good-bye We acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Mrs Helen Carmody as Principal of Toorak College from 2012–2015 and Mrs Lois Dwyer as Duty Principal and Head of Senior School from 2010–2015.

FAREWELL HELEN CARMODY

FAREWELL LOIS DWYER

Since joining Toorak College in Term 2, 2012, Helen has worked enthusiastically and successfully to enhance our reputation, improve student, staff and parent satisfaction and grow enrolments which has ensured our financial future. This has allowed the School to begin major capital projects such as the redevelopment of the Jean Robinson Oval due to be opened in April 2016. Importantly, Toorak College has taken its place again as an exemplar of academic excellence within Victoria and the whole of Australia. We have reclaimed our position as the leading school on the Mornington Peninsula.

Lois was appointed as Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School at Toorak College in 2010, she also held the role of Acting Principal from July 2011 to March 2012. A role she filled with dedication and distinction.

Lois has been responsible for all aspects of the day to day operations of Senior School but also a critical member of the Executive team. She along with the Board and Executive, was instrumental in the development of the strategic vision that has directed current actions and the widespread school improvement and success that Toorak College now enjoys.

Her inspirational leadership and strong personal and professional commitment to Toorak College will be remembered as a hallmark of her time at the school. Helen leaves Toorak College in a very strong position in terms of academics, enrolments, morale and community reputation. Whilst we are sad to be losing an outstanding leader, the School is in great shape for future success in 2016.

Lois has shown great resilience in the face of some serious health challenges, only to emerge stronger and more determined to improve the quality of her life. She has shown amazing courage in completing the Great Vic Bike Ride with our girls on three occasions. She recently climbed and jumped off the ‘leap of faith’ at the Year 12 camp and at the start of this year embarked on a serious fitness regime that now sees her running 10kms most weekends and she has committed to run her first Half Marathon in Melbourne in October 2016!

We thank Helen for her leadership of Toorak College and wish her all the best for the future.

We thank Lois for all she has contributed to Toorak College and wish her all the best in retirement and the next chapter of her life.

4 Thank you and good-bye

2015 VCE results We congratulate each of our 2015 graduates and join with them in celebrating all they have achieved.

2015 VCE RESULTS % of students

ATAR

National Results

2%

99+

Top 1% of Australia

21%

95+

Top 5% of Australia

40%

90+

Top 10% of Australia

55%

80+

Top 20% of Australia

91%

50+

Top 50% of Australia

DUX OF 2015

PERFECT STUDY SCORES OF 50

Congratulations to our DUX of 2015, Jessica Wu, who achieved an ATAR of 99.35.

• Jessica Wu

• Business Management

• Brianna Blake

• Physical Education

• Meggan Banks

• Studio Arts

Jessica studied Accounting, Business Management - Perfect Study Score, English, Maths Methods (CAS), Chinese and Music Performance.

Jessica hopes to continue her studies by undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce at Melbourne University and would also like to complete a Diploma of Music.

2015 HIGH ACHIEVERS Congratulations to the 2015 High Achievers who scored an ATAR of 95 or above:

INTERNATIONAL DUX OF 2015

• Jessica Wu

• Ruby Stocker

• Wea Gwee (Joven)

• Sinead Waterson

Joven studied Biology, Chemistry, EAL, Maths Methods (CAS) and Specialist Maths. She also studied Bio Medical Science as an extension program at Monash University.

• Kate Cosman

• Yichen Zhou (Kassie)

• Emma Wiggins

• Erin Price

Joven hopes to enter into Medical School and pursue a career as a doctor.

• Margaux Delaney

• Jordan Lee

• Rebecca Cameron

• Julia Carbery

Well done to the DUX of international students Wea Gwee (Joven) who achieved an ATAR of 98.9.

5 2015 VCE results

Principal announcement The Chairman and Directors are delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Kristy Kendall as the new Principal of Toorak College.

Prior to heading up the Berwick campus, Kristy was Head of Senior Girls having led the establishment of Haileybury Girls College in 2007. She has a strong understanding of the importance of single gender education in the Middle and Senior School levels. From 2005 to 2012 Kristy was the Associate Dean of Social Education where she developed a whole school program that addressed the social, emotional and academic development pathways for students. In 2011, Kristy completed her School Principal’s Training at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.

Kristy’s teaching passion is Psychology, and she was head of this high-performing faculty at Haileybury from 2004 until taking over her leadership role at Edrington. Kristy has taught VCE Psychology, authored eight VCE titles in this subject and maintains an ongoing involvement in publishing in this area.

Kristy completed her Masters of Education in 2013 with her thesis focused on the development of an adolescent’s abilities to understand another individual’s perspective. Kristy’s expertise in VCE Psychology and curriculum development more broadly is demonstrated by her Advisory Board role with Edrolo, and international business focused on the advanced online delivery of educational content relating to VCE, HSC and SAT. We know that Kristy will be an excellent role model for current and future Toorak College students, having demonstrated a tremendous ability to set and achieve aspirational objectives in her career and personal education. She is a proud mother of two boys, and is active in the performing arts. Consistent with her tremendous energy and her desire to maintain continuous self-development, Kristy is also currently studying Mandarin.

Mrs Kristy Kendall will take up the Principal position at Toorak College at the beginning of 2016. Kristy’s previous role was as Head of Edrington, Haileybury’s Berwick Campus. Kristy has been at Haileybury for 15 years, and assumed responsibility for the development of Edrington in 2013. Under her management, the campus has exceeded enrolment growth targets and has delivered key improvements in the educational outcomes achieved by students across the school.

Kristy is indeed an exciting appointment for Toorak College.

She is looking forward to meeting with all of the Toorak College community in the very near future and embracing the special spirit of our school.

Peter Wickenden Chairman of the Board of Directors

6 Principal announcement

It takes 2 2016 Head Girl, Phoebe Blakey and Deputy Head Girl, Jaymie Moynihan reflect on their time together at Toorak College and what their leadership roles mean to them.

2016 is an extremely exciting year for us, being given the opportunity not only as prefects, but as a year level, to give back to the school that has given so much to us in the past. I know I speak for both of us, and the entire Prefect Team, when I say we will dedicate ourselves to our roles with enthusiasm and passion.

This role means so much to me and I am extremely proud to be representing the wonderful group of girls that make up the Toorak student body. There are so many exciting times ahead, and I couldn’t be happier to have my wonderfully determined, hard-working and closest friend standing by my side.

Phoebe Blakey 2016 Head Girl Phoebe and I were in the same class in Year 7, as well as both being avid members of Tripp. Almost by default, we became friends. There aren’t a lot of people I can rely on to always be there for me and help me out regardless of the time of day, or the situation. Phoebe Blakey is certainly one of them. This is what makes the prospect of next year so exciting. The role of Deputy Head Girl is more than I personally ever believed I could achieve. Earning such a position has put in perspective just how much one can achieve when it means a lot to them, just as this role does. It really goes to show just how much we can do next year if we work together. With countless people willing to help at every curve such as the SRC and the rest of the Prefect Team, 2016 is going to be a big year, but from where I stand, no challenge will be too great. I would love to see the bonds through this school strengthen through the work Phoebe and I do next year. The perfect thing about Toorak is its size. It’s large enough to offer the facilities of a big school, but small enough that people are capable of maintaining strong friendships across other year levels than just their own. Through fundraising and other activities involving multiple year levels, I don’t think this will be a task too large by any means. With Phoebe by my side and I by hers, I look forward to what next year can bring.

During our first term of Year 7, Jaymie and I happened to be elected tutorial leaders together. We knew extremely little of each other, and it was our first experience of any form of leadership position at Toorak College (in Senior School, at least). That was when we first became good friends, bonding over the planning of our very first ‘tute lunch’. We didn’t know back then how close we would become over the years to follow.

Together, we have been part of so many amazing programs and opportunities that this school has offered us, including the Student Council, being representatives of Tripp House and being in the same crew for the intermediate rowing season. Safe to say, Jaymie and I have become quite the pair when it comes to organising, planning, working together and just generally having fun.

Jaymie Moynihan 2016 Deputy Head Girl

7 It takes 2

2016 Leaders PREFECTS AND DEPUTY HOUSE LEADERS

2016 SPORT CAPTAINS

Head Girl

Phoebe Blakey

AFL Football

Isabella Cuming

Deputy Head Girl

Jaymie Moynihan

Athletics (Field)

Isabella Cuming

Head Of Joan Ansett Hall Can (Camilla) Yang

Athletics (Track)

Saasha Whitworth

Head Of Bardon House

Sarah Meldrum

Badminton

Jaihui Bai

Music Prefect

Margaret Dick

Basketball

Isabella Cuming

Dance Prefect

Chelsea Luke

Cross Country

Saasha Whitworth

Literary Prefect

Francesca Aarons

Diving

Meggan Banks

Visual Arts Prefect

Francesca Oswald-Jacobs

Duke of Edinburgh

Sport Prefect

Saasha Whitworth

Imavi Wanasinghe (2016 Year 11)

Drama Prefect

Courtney Hales

Equestrian

Francesca Oswald-Jacobs

Debating & Public Speaking Prefect

Sophie Malignaggi

Hockey

Phoebe Blakey

Human Powered Vehicle

Jemima Stocker (2016 Year 11)

Community Liaison Prefect

Candace Hewitt-Thomas

Indoor Cricket

Abbie Westley

Netball

Isabella Cuming

Cerutty Prefect

Whitney Elliott

Rowing

Abbie Westley

Cerutty Deputies

Natalie Cocks & Sarah Rogers

Sailing

Sophie Peasley

Douglas Prefect

Beth Dahlsen

Snowsports

Saasha Whitworth

Douglas Deputies

Meggan Banks & Callie Beuermann

Soccer

Alexandra Wake

Hamilton Prefect

Isabella Cuming

Softball

Madeline Gill

Hamilton Deputies

Gabrielle Thomas & Abbie Westley

Surfing

Alexandra Wake

Swimming

Erin Colliver

Mayfield Prefect

Ashley Fairfield

Tennis

Dominique Mirabella

Mayfield Deputies

Stephanie Farag & Teghan Rookes

Volleyball

Beth Dahlsen

Pye Prefect

Alexandra Wake

Water Polo

Lily Orton

Pye Deputies

Erin Colliver & Georgia Frampton

Tripp Prefect

Josephine Dalstead

Tripp Deputies

Lily Orton & Alyssa Rendall 8 2016 Leaders ‌

Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary During Semester 2 the Early Learning Centre children, families and teachers have investigated and travelled along many extraordinary learning paths.

Semester 2 in the Early Learning Centre (ELC) saw celebrations for Grandparent’s Day in August, a Mad Hatter’s Morning Tea for Book Week and fathers and special visitors joined us for some Footy Day activities to celebrate Father’s Day.

ELC SPECIALIST CLASSES Throughout the year the children attended specialist classes including Perceptual Motor Program (PMP), Art, Music and Library. Specialist teachers work alongside our educators and children on various projects, Units of Inquiry or current interests. During art classes with Petra Glaser this semester, the 4 year old children created a unique clay fish to ‘swim’ in the river bed of the ‘Space for Playing and Learning’ garden. Our music teacher, Angela Hansen helped the 3 year old children extend their music skills by experiences such as, creating their own action songs, learning ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ in Chinese, and creating their own version of ‘Tiddilick’.

EXCURSIONS AND INCURSIONS This semester the children enjoyed a visit to the local beach where they explored the environment, a visit to Balnarring Beach where the Balnarring Preschool children shared their knowledge of the land with our 4 year olds. Monty Pryor, an Indigenous storyteller visited and enchanted the 3 year old children with stories, music and ochre painting. Drama Tool Box Entertainers worked with the children to create amazing scenes of movement and laughter. The Butterfly Adventures incursion provided a close up view of the life cycle of a butterfly.

Wild Action animal zoo delighted the children with close encounters with our native fauna. Other local outings have included exploring The Briars and visiting Mount Eliza village.

As early childhood educators we celebrate the extraordinary discoveries and achievements that children make every day in the ordinary events that take place. For example, the child who is now able to put on their own shoes, the child who learnt to share or the child who has discovered that they can turn on the tap all by themselves.

Pat Barbieri Head of the Early Learning Centre 9

Early Learning Centre

Leading self and others ‘Our lives, hopes, and dreams depend on our ability to be heard.’

James Bernard

Throughout 2015 we have been working through Component 2 of the KidsMatter framework focusing on social and emotional learning. In particular:

When a student’s time at school is enjoyable and worthwhile, research tells us that it supports their mental health and wellbeing. Part of this process involves supporting students to be active contributors to their own learning. When students are active contributors in their school community research indicates that this is a significant protective factor to support mental health and wellbeing now and in the future.

• Self-awareness • Self-management • Social awareness

The most profound learning occurs when there is a healthy relationship between teachers, students and parents. Children accustomed to loving support and guidance are much more likely to become healthy and productive adults.

• Relationship skills • Responsible decision making.

Following the successful 2014 launch of the overarching framework, KidsMatter and the implementation of the BounceBack resilience program we continue to focus on authentic opportunities for students to have a voice across Wardle House.

10 Wardle House

They decided an additional flag pole was needed and started raising the funds late in 2014. In Term 4 their goal was achieved with a new flag pole being purchased to start 2016.

Implementation of the BounceBack program assists children with the skills and attitudes to help them become more resilient. It uses literature as a starting point for discussions and follow-up activities and is certainly embraced by teachers and students. Teachers incorporate elements of the program into their weekly planners. If you are resilient you are able to cope reasonably well with difficult situations and things that go wrong, and then ‘bounce back’. Throughout life children will need skills and attitudes to help them to bounce back. They will encounter everyday challenges such as making mistakes, falling out with a friend, moving house or school and losing in a sports competition.

Cooperation actually activates the reward system in the brain and increases the release of dopamine so that we feel good. We strengthened our buddy system by including senior students as mentors and leaders in various programs across Wardle House.

Year 10 students supported our Year 6 students as Exhibition mentors. Year 8 students, through the Food and Technology program worked closely with Year 1 students as teachers in our cooking program. Students learn from people at different stages of readiness and capability, and when working together this can complement and enhance one another’s learning.

Consistent use of restorative practices has enabled our students to self regulate behaviour and ultimately assists our students to be heard and supported. Restorative practices are predicated on the positive relationships that students and adults have with one another. When relationships become damaged the parties are encouraged to engage in reflective conversations facilitated by their teachers. Our students now ask for a restorative conversation when they are faced with relationship difficulties.

Brains have to be safe in order to fully engage. Students need to feel that they have unconditional regard and are respected and that teachers and their peers support them. Predictable routines and conditions help provide that safety. A brain friendly school has conditions that students can count on to meet their needs and we focus on achieving this for Wardle House students.

The Junior School Council (JSC) has representation from Years 3 to 6 and meet each week to discuss initiatives and action our students deem important. This year the JSC erected external chalkboards to elicit student messages of affirmation which are regularly shared at assembly. An interest in Indigenous culture saw our students keen to raise the Aboriginal flag each week.

Mandy Whitworth Head of Wardle House

11 Wardle House

The DIGI Zone Quality teaching supporting STEM thinking.

Our Years 3 and 4 DIGIxplorers are immersed in discovery of digital learning within rich creative platforms such as Minecraft where they can explore and design in association with their inquiry unit learning outcomes. Students are introduced to the design process while using simple coding software to support problem finding and solving.

The DIGIneers of Years 5-8 are considering real life problems and potential solutions as they engage in engineering pursuits in their classrooms and within programs such as Cre8 and Future Thinking. The co-curricular Human Powered Vehicle (HPV) program also hones engineering skills. Robotics (Lego robotics and Spheroballs), coding, gaming, 3D printing, CAD, Python, Sketchup, electronics are just some of tools available for use. Exposure to outside designers develops the creativity and problem finding and solving skills central to design.

Our students will need to be savvy with digital tools, STEM thinking and the ability to create solutions for real life problems, but will also need to familiarise themselves with the skill of promoting and selling innovation in a global context hence the focus on entrepreneurship particularly in Years 9 and 10 for our DIGIpreneurs. The 21st Century will see students linked to industry as they pursue their own design briefs.

The launch of our DIGI Zone makerspace at the start of Term 3, to support student Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) thinking and digital skills, heralded a crucial time to consider a targeted approach for skills development. The acronym DIGI encapsulates some of the key approaches or skills our students will need to take into the world of work: Design, Innovate, Gamify and Inspire. Careful analysis of research and the Digital Technologies Australian curriculum provided the impetus to create a range of ‘DIGI identities’ aligned with each age range which pinpoint the key focus of development and potential tools to support this development.

The VCE years begin to see many students specialising in a range of subjects related to STEM fields. As our students begin to consider their next steps for their future, exposure to possible career pathways and opportunities provide input to decision making.

Known as the DIGIbots, the ELC to Year 2 students are at a crucial stage of awareness as they develop the mindset for construction, design and engineering. Using an array of digital tools and programs such as Junior Scratch, Beebots, arduinos, littlebits electronics and construction games such as Goldiblox they will experience the first steps in problem solving and basic coding.

Liana Gooch Director of Learning, Teaching and Innovation Phil Carew Head of eLearning

12 Innovation

Developing creative thinking Middle Years students stretch their imaginations with a Stephen Mushin workshop.

‘I’m interested in the power of imagination and the allure of wild new inventions as panaceas for big global problems.

More specifically I’m interested in how we can use humour, satire and outlandish future narratives as positive devices which open our minds to radical and very serious ideas for change.’ Stephen Mushin During a workshop with Stephen Mushin in Term 3, students from Years 5 and 6 learned to tap into their creative thinking processes. Ecological designer, sustainability planner, industrial designer, hack engineer, artist, shadow puppeteer – Stephen had the students transfixed as he discussed and demonstrated his fanciful inventions. As Mushin explained to the students, his work is an exercise in ‘logical absurdity’ and his task was to encourage our young adolescents to look at a variety of scenarios that could be implemented in the school to promote innovation and creative thinking.

STUDENT REFLECTIONS

Stephen helped students understand that thinking creatively demands generating lots of possible answers or ideas. According to Gregory and Kaufeldt (2015, p.109) thinking creatively can be highly motivating. Dopamine surges through one’s brain as the ideas are flowing. Creativity means you have to do something with your imaginative thoughts. It is ‘the process of having original ideas that have value’ (Robinson, 2009, p.67).

‘Stephen looked at the world and looked outside the box.

The power of imagination not only inspired Stephen but inspired us too.’ Lucy (Year 6) ‘Stephen taught me to “think big and not listen to people who tell you it can’t be done, life’s too short to think small”.’

Sophie P (Year 6)

Stephen encouraged students to think about solving problems using a ‘Now, If, What, Then’ framework. He then set the students the challenge of designing an innovative educational environment. It really got them thinking about creative possibilities - Waterslides? Walkways? Virtual Reality? Our young engineers worked collaboratively to tackle the problem, pitch ideas, attempt to explain how their ideas could be built, and then explore what on earth would happen if the plans went ahead. During this workshop, engagement in the process fueled the students to create possibilities beyond their wildest dreams.

‘Stephen Mushin gave everyone in Year 6 a new set of eyes – a way of looking at things with a different perspective - a lens that makes you travel into a world of possibility, where nothing is impossible. Our brains were turned upside down and stretched as wide as the universe. He inspired us to be open-minded and to believe that there is no end to creativity.’

Charlotte K (Year 6) ‘During the incursion, Stephen showed us the different roles in researching, presenting and puzzling over questions and barriers for our projects.’ Jessica W (Year 6)

Kim Wheeler Deputy Head of Wardle House

13 Middle Years

Global thinking Enjoying the benefits of long standing relationships with sister schools in Japan.

Toorak College has a long tradition of being internationally minded. International students have always had a place at Toorak and in particular were welcomed into Joan Ansett Hall in increasing numbers from the 1980s. This continues today and the benefits for both local and international students are significant. Local students are able to make friends with girls who have a different perspective on the world and with different life experiences and cultural understandings. International students are able to improve their English and gain an appreciation of the Australian way of life, family and education.

We also have a long tradition of fostering relationships with other schools in Asia and Europe and in welcoming Exchange students and Study Tours to Toorak. During this year we have had students from Toyo Eiwa in Japan join the boarders in Joan Ansett Hall for Term 1, two girls from France joined us on exchange in Term 1, as did two German students in Term 3.

They joined our exchange student from Kobe Ryukoku, who is at Toorak College for the whole year.

We also hosted a three week Study Tour from SKS Tsang Shiu Tim High School in the Senior School in Term 3. These 25 girls and boys from Hong Kong had intensive English lessons every morning and joined Year 9 classes each afternoon for ‘immersion’ English experiences in the classroom! The confidence of the students in speaking in English improved markedly over the course of the Study Tour and Year 9 enjoyed having international buddies in their classes.

Toorak College girls are also taking up the challenges of living internationally, with Zoey D (Year 10) studying for five months in the USA, Kate D (Year 10) going to Germany for five months, Dominique M (Year 11) and Mim N (Year 10) studying in Germany for two months over Christmas and Phoebe B (Year 11), Kimberley N (Year 10), Jennifer G (Year 10) and Winnie D (Year 11) all spending seven weeks in Japan at Kobe Ryukoku at the end of the year.

Lois Dwyer Deputy Principal, Head of Senior School

For many years students have travelled between Kobe in Japan and Toorak College and last year saw the ten year anniversary of this relationship. 2015, however, saw the beginning of an additional sister school relationship with Hikarigaoka Girls High School and we were delighted to welcome 11 girls and their teachers to Toorak. Their Principal also visited and is looking forward to Toorak College girls attending Hikarigaoka in the future.

14 Senior School

I encourage anyone considering to host a student to do so, as it widens your understanding, knowledge and relations to Japanese culture and heritage.

‘During the Hong Kong students’ visit to Toorak, I was buddied up with Davina. Like all the students from Hong Kong, her education means very long school days and demanding extra curricular requirements. This meant their English was amazing and their ability to fit into our busy schedules without faltering was very impressive. Our communication was challenging to begin with, as many Australian phrases were lost in translation, but over the course of their stay we learnt a lot from each other. They showed us a focus, discipline and bravery in their approach to our foreign environment and made us think about how we would feel if we were put in their situation. I hope that they took away from their time with us a greater confidence in their language skills and an insight into a slightly more relaxed school and lifestyle in Australia.’ Camryn (Year 9)

‘Earlier this year my family hosted Neo Nomoto, a Japanese student from Hikarigaoka High School. Neo was a wonderful addition to our family, and showed us the cultural differences and similarities between herself and us. The relationship our family created with Neo over her time with us is one that I am sure will remain for many years to come. I encourage anyone considering to host a student to do so, as it widens your understanding, knowledge and relations to Japanese culture and heritage.’ Lily (Year 9) ‘Early in Term 3 a group of Year 9 students had the opportunity to host a Hong Kong student for a week, I was lucky enough to host a girl called Coco. Coco was so friendly and really wanted to experience life as a Toorak College student.

She participated in my classes and even helped me with some Maths! Coco knew some English before she came to Australia but after the week she spent with me and other girls she ended up learning even more. At times it was hard to understand each other but with the help of her other friends she eventually understood what I was telling her. For me it was great to host Coco, she told me about her life and what her school is like. I remember her telling me that she spends almost 12 hours at school a day and sometimes it can be more.

It was also interesting to learn about Hong Kong in general for example most people live in apartments where we live on big blocks of land. Hosting Coco for a week was amazing and I really enjoyed getting to know not only her but all her friends that came with her, I hope that the school will do this next year as I would love to do something like this again.’ Billie (Year 9)

‘Hosting Hong Kong buddies for a week was a joyful and enlightening experience. It’s so great meeting new people and especially those who come from a different cultural background as you have so much to learn from one another. Us Toorak girls take pride in our school so the chance to have a buddy from another country coming with us to and from different classes was a great way to show off the school we love and appreciate.

It took a bit of warming up but after a couple of days we were able to have many laughs and great conversations with our foreign buddies. It was really enjoyable showing them around and helping them out with the things we were learning.

The Hong Kong students really immersed themselves into our classes and even joined in activities such as our drama performances which were hilarious! I hope the students gained as much from the experience as we did and perhaps brought some Toorak traditions back home with them!’ Mae (Year 9)

15 Senior School

Food, glorious food!

VCE Food and Technology students have been working on some innovative and delicious recipes for Units 3 and 4.

This year has been a fabulous year for VCE Food and Technology students. At the end of Term 2 they started their major assessment task which requires students to write their own design brief allowing them to develop between four to six food items. The students successfully developed a variety of creative and innovative design briefs that have given rise to a broad selection of ideas, from High Tea to celebrate the 110th birthday of the Plaza Hotel in New York, to a series of desserts made to reflect to scents and essences present in various designer perfumes for a food and fashion magazine called SweetSCENTsations. I am so proud of each student as they produced highly creative, innovative and inspirational dishes.

Congratulations to Rebecca C who has been shortlisted for Top Designs for her Food and Technology Folio. The Top Designs exhibition is a very prestigious event that showcases the exemplary work of design students in the state of Victoria.

Students submit their work to VCAA selection committee, thousands of students enter their work, and a few are shortlisted and then the folios are submitted for the final selection.

The finalists then have their work displayed at the Melbourne Museum as part of the Top Designs exhibition in late March.

We are happy to announce that Rebecca has been selected.

Below is the blurb that Rebecca wrote to accompany her folio at the Artfest at the beginning of Term 4.

Agatha Panetta-Zarro Food and Technology Teacher

‘A TASTE OF AUSTRALIA’ ‘The influence behind my folio came from my trip around Australia in 2001. I travelled for three months up the middle of Australia and back down to Victoria. Throughout the trip I saw some amazing landscapes which inspired the concept of my folio. I sought inspiration from various landscapes from each state of Australia and recreated them in a food dish through the use of similar colours and textures. For example, for the Northern Territory, the landscape which inspired my food dish was Uluru at sunset. To recreate this landscape in a food dish I created Arancini Balls served with beetroot puree. The crispy, rough texture and golden, orange colour of the arancinis were reflective of the colour and landscape of Uluru.’

16 Food Technology

Semester 2 musical highlights The Cabaret Evening, Biennial Concert, Soirees and Speech Night provide students with the opportunity to practice the art of performing.

Term 3 of 2015 was dominated by two major musical events: our new Toorak Cabaret and the Biennial Concert.

The Cabaret was an opportunity for our senior girls to perform contemporary music in a Jazz club setting, and they amazed their audience. Stunning solos and ensembles filled the program, with everything from Michael Bublé, to The Beatles, Radiohead, Adele, Etta James, Birdy and Duke Ellington to name a few. Guest artist, professional Bass player Tamara Murphy entertained and inspired students and audience alike, with her marvelous performance.

The Biennial Concert was a large undertaking. Enjoying the facilities of the Frankston Arts Centre, all our ensembles performed to a theme of World Music. We heard Spanish, Turkish, Irish, Japanese and so much more. A performance which particularly captivated the audience was that of Camilla Y (Year 11) on the traditional Chinese Instrument, the Guzheng. A stunning night was capped with a finale of Adiemus from Songs of Sanctuary by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins by the Symphony Orchestra and massed choirs of Wardle House and Senior School. The stage was filled with over 180 performers.

Speech Night is a great night for everyone involved, and this year’s lead up was as big as any year, with every girl dedicating herself to work hard and pull everything together, making the night a rewarding success. This night is always one that showcases the diversity of talent in our school, and with the Rachmaninoff concerto with soloist Jessica Wu (Year 12), to the empowering energy of the ‘I Am Woman’ video, this year was definitely no exception.

Our Soirees continue to be popular with families who enjoy each students’ solo moment. It is so important for students to have a performance goal to work towards and our Soirees at the end of each term provide that in a relaxed and supportive setting. As well, young students from Wardle House play or sing alongside senior students, so that they get to hear the work of our seniors and have something to aspire to. Soirees are where practice comes to fruition, nerves are conquered, and families get to hear the results of all the hard work.

Margaret Dick Music Prefect – 2016

Jayne Turner Director of Music

17 Music News

Dirk Smirk – Secret Agent Year 7 and 8 students reflect on the benefits of Performance Art

In early September the Year 7 and 8 production of Dirk Smirk – Secret Agent was successfully performed over two nights to the school community. Being part of a school production will produce many wonderful memories for the girls. Not only of experiencing the thrill of performance but the camaraderie and friendships that are formed during these productions.

‘Being part of the 2015 production of ‘Dirk Smirk’ was one of the most fun things I did all year. It was amazing watching bits and pieces of the performance coming together and then being able to perform the final piece. I made lots of new connections because of the production and that’s what I got most from the experience. I remember the first time we made the audience properly laugh, everyone was so happy after that! Everyone made so many great memories that none of us will forget.’ Eve H (Year 7)

I asked some of the performers to reflect on their experience of being involved in this year’s production and here are their thoughts.

Emma Jensen Head of Drama

18 Performing Arts

Being part of the 2015 production of Dirk Smirk was one of the most fun things I did all year.

‘Funnily enough, the hardest part of this production for me was the first thing I had to do. The auditions. I was terrified!

The rehearsals were long and hard, but my overall memories of ‘Dirk Smirk’ are full of laughter and successes. My favourite thing from ‘Dirk Smirk’ happened after the show, when Ms Jensen brought her two daughters to meet me after, and they told me that they wanted to do ‘Dirk Smirk’ too, because I had inspired them. This is the beautiful thing about acting and performances, that it arouses emotion from all audience members, and that you can encourage others to perform simply by having fun.’ Georgia D (Year 7)

‘I was lucky enough to be part of the Year 7 and 8 production this year. The rehearsals and production catch-ups were great but nothing could top that feeling once we completed a performance. When it comes to public speaking I can get quite nervous, so being in the production has given me more confidence. The memories I made with my friends will stay close for a very long time but my favourite of them all was getting ready backstage for each performance.’ Tara M (Year 8) ‘Meetings, costume preparations, auditions, rehearsals, lighting and sound checks is just a taste of what goes on backstage before a production. ‘Dirk Smirk’ was without doubt an experience I will never forget. I remember the opening night, nervous performers were everywhere, repeating lines to themselves, afraid they would forget. The audience was bustling, excited to see what we had spent months preparing.

If I had to tell you one of the many things I learnt that night it would be this: Be confident with yourself and what you do.’

Maddy M (Year 8)

19 Performing Arts

VCE Art and Design Exhibition 2016 Visual Arts Prefect, Francesca Oswald-Jacobs, takes some time to reflect on her experiences during the exhibition.

Ever since I was a tiny little tot in Year 7, I had a goal, an aspiration to be like the big, grown up VCE girls and have my work showcased in the VCE Art, Design and Technology Exhibition. Five years later my dream was realized and there I was standing in front of my final Visual Communication Designs, and oh what a wonderful feeling that was.

Although in the creation of mine, and everyone else’s finals, are hours and hours of work and dedication that not a lot of parents or spectators understand or see. Our class started working on our folios at the end of Term 2, having only a term to complete our SAT folio and our finals. It was a very, very hectic and tiring term, with a lot of late nights, half a dozen trips to Officeworks to get more ink for the printer, paint all over my clothes, square eyes from staring at my screen for so long and countless hours of annotating the many pages in my folio, let’s say it was quite a relief to finally get those finals completed.

To top off our exciting final submission, we all then had the Exhibition to look forward to. The night was a roaring success, filled with parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, filing in and out, amazed by the fabulous works of the VCE Art, Design and Technology students. It was a blur of emotions; excitement, contentment, pride and happiness. Seeing our designs up there on the wall and observing all those who stopped and had a look was inspiring. I could feel the enthusiasm coming from those who showed their parents around, and how proud everyone was to be a part of the Art community at Toorak College. I for one, am incredibly proud and look forward to the Exhibition next year in my role as Visual Arts Prefect for 2016.

Francesca Oswald-Jacobs 2016 Visual Arts Prefect

20 Visual Arts

WARDLE HOUSE ART During Semester 2 in Art, Year 6 students were instrumental in the planning and creation of ceramic plaques to be installed in the area for playing and learning in Wardle House. Each plaque became part of a collaborative project marking the legacy of the Year 6 students’ time at Wardle House. Initially all Wardle House students including the ELC children planned the play area complete with water pump, bridges, garden, sound pipes and respite areas.

In keeping with the natural appearance and colours and of the playground, the students planned an organic composition with rhythm and flow. The goldene glaze complements Bunjil and its surrounds, and also highlights the designs in relief on the clay’s surface. These stunning ceramic plaques will adorn the vertical posts on the bridge and will be installed in the near future.

Another major project that occurred in the Art studio this semester was the ELC children’s contribution to the playground.

It was decided that ceramic fish would be inlaid along the water channel, so after looking at many types of fish the children drew their own. Templates were made from these drawings so that the clay fish became the children’s individual designs. They imprinted patterns into the clay surface with specialised tools and the surface was decorated with the same goldene glaze as that of the plaques.

2016 will see the transformation of the playground with some awe-inspiring personalised artwork which will serve to heighten the children’s appreciation of their special place for playing and learning.

Petra Glaser Wardle House Art Specialist

21 Visual Arts

Taking it to the next level Both Wardle House and Senior School students have enjoyed getting involved in different sports in Semester 2.

WARDLE HOUSE

GIRLS SPORT VICTORIA (GSV)

We started the year with House Swimming - Red, Gold and Blue all participating. We had students reaching the SSV regional swimming championships, which is an amazing achievement.

In Term 2, we had House Athletics and House Cross Country.

In our representative athletics and cross country events Toorak students progressing to District, Division, Regional and even State level. We also had Teeball, Soccer and Netball teams win the Mount Eliza Sport District Lightning Premierships!! Our teams also progressed to Division finals, with our Teeball team reaching the grand final at regional level.

GSV is a wonderful opportunity for all the girls at Toorak College to be able to partake in. Not only does it help build skill, physical fitness and good sportsmanship, but it provides an amazing chance to be able to build new friendships across and within agegroups. The sense of being part of a team and working hard to take sport to the next level is immensely enjoyable and allows girls to find out their interests or talents that they otherwise might not look into. Some of my favourite memories across my time at Toorak are participating in GSV sports - from hockey, to athletics, to soccer, football and rowing. Trainings and games are exciting to be a part of and the memories and friendships we build can remain with us for the rest of our lives.

Term 4 is filled with map reading (orienteering!) and running, swimming and cycling in triathlon. All students participating in all these fun events have done a great job and we congratulate them!

We all have had fun and experienced team spirit, cooperation, teamwork and making the best of these marvellous experiences.

Phoebe B Year 11

EQUESTRIAN

Jessica W & Lauren B Year 6

Toorak College has had an outstanding year in Interschool Showjumping, winning both the VEIS Showjumping Championships and ISJ Championships. This is an outstanding effort from the team, which consists of strong riders in both showjumping and dressage from Year 2-Year 12.

22 Sports

House reflection The House competition has always been a major part of the vibrant culture at Toorak College, and 2015 has been another year packed with House activities and all the energy and excitement that they bring.

The overall aggregate result for 2015 was: 1st

Pye

2nd

Hamilton

3rd

Tripp

4th

Mayfield

5th

Cerutty

6th

Douglas

The individual events were won by: Swimming

Pye

House events offer students the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities from a variety of sporting events that include Athletics, Swimming, Soccer and Volleyball, to Music, Drama, Debating and Public speaking. These events are always conducted in a fantastic spirit of friendly competition, with a strong emphasis on participation, fun, energy and enthusiasm.

Beyond this, House events also offer an opportunity for the girls to develop teamwork and leadership skills and it is great to see the number of students who rise to the occasion and really grow in confidence as members of a team and as leaders in the challenging environment that House events can be.

Diving

Pye

Athletics

Pye

Cross Country

Pye

Music

Tripp

Drama

Cerutty

Variety

Mayfield

Joan Ansett Hall

Mayfield

This year the captains and deputies have excelled both individually and as a leadership group that have been incredibly supportive of each other, highlighting the great spirit these events are conducted in. The ability of these girls to organise and prepare their Houses for competitions, especially for events such as House Music, has been extremely impressive. I would like to thank Aynsley, Julia, Lydia, Marlya, Tess and Tori, and all their deputies, for their amazing efforts this year, and also to congratulate the 2016 House Captains on their election to the position and wish them all the best for next year.

Soccer

Hamilton

Volleyball

Douglas

Snowsports

Tripp

Debating

Tripp

Pubilc Speaking

Pye

Drew Gardener Head of Houses 23 Sports

Beyond Boundaries Beyond Boundaries at Year 9 is the peak experience of the Outdoor Education program at Toorak College. It is much more than a traditional ‘camp’ and builds on the skills and attributes developed over the Year 7 and 8 outdoor program.

The service learning projects included working on a sanitation project which involved digging cesspits, mixing cement and casting concrete in Laos; building enclosures to protect endangered sea turtles laying eggs as well as counting eggs and hatchlings in the turtle sanctuary in Malaysia; teaching classes and playing with indigenous children at a school in Kununurra in the Northern Territory; and building thatch rooves for housing and laying bricks for an incinerator in India. These were just a few of the many ways in which the girls contributed to the people and environments in which they travelled. In return of course, they gained much as well. The satisfaction from exercising self-discipline to get up at 2:00am to record turtle hatchings, completing physically demanding tasks in humid and hot conditions, and showing tolerance and respect for others when working with the various communities, were all valuable learning experiences for our girls.

The recreational and cultural understanding activities included visiting villages, sites of significant environmental interest, temples and mosques as well as sight-seeing and, of course, the obligatory shopping.

Through Beyond Boundaries, students are able to pursue their interests, talents, and particular sense of adventure to extend them beyond their boundaries outside of the school’s boundaries.

I thank the Toorak staff who accompanied each group; Ms Kirsten Thomson, Ms Natasha Vinod, Ms Sisi Chen, Mrs Lisa Hamilton-Smith, Mrs Julie Idzes, Mrs Sara Groves and Mrs Megan Davies. The staff from World Challenge and Rustic Pathways were wonderful and added much to each groups experiences.

The Beyond Boundaries learning journeys at Toorak College offer every Year 9 student the chance to engage in a unique experience not ordinarily found in family holidays, experience how other people live, whether it is in another country or our own, engage in a service learning project where they assist other people or causes to make a tangible difference to the lives of others or the environment, develop a sense of responsibility for themselves and an ability to interact positively with others and reflect on personal achievement through meeting physical and mental challenges.

Toorak College partnered with World Challenge for the international journeys and Rustic Pathways for the Australian journey. All the journeys were an outstanding success with wonderful feedback from staff and students alike. Every journey had three elements; a physical challenge component, a service learning project and a recreational and cultural understanding focus. The physical challenges were usually trekking, with varying degrees of difficulty on the different journeys with India and Laos being the most challenging.

Lois Dwyer Deputy Principal, Head of Senior School ‘In Tasik Chini we learnt about and experienced the local art of rubber tapping. This is where you use a special kind of knife, which resembled a small machete, to tap into rubber trees.

You then let it drip into a bucket and you can make many different items out of the rubber! We all made elastic bands and used them to tie up our hair. We also learnt about all of the other uses of rubber and Malaysia’s biggest exports, it was a great experience.’ Chloe (Malaysia)

24

Beyond Boundaries

‘Laos in a couple of words; amazing, hard, extremely hot, enjoyable, valuable and eye opening.’ Abby (Laos) ‘The morning after finishing our trek, we were picked up by open top jeeps from the national park that took us into the town. From the town we went on a safari through the national park and we saw lots of deer and monkeys, some elephants and our group was lucky enough to see two tigers.’

Camryn (India) ‘The expedition to Laos is a mix of all the other expeditions in one, it has a trekking phase, it has loads and loads of markets, it has beautiful waterfalls that you can swim under and take amazing instagram worthy shots, it also has a community phase where you get to spend time with local children for hours, teaching them English and nursery rhymes, those moments are the ones you will never ever forget.’ Paris (Laos)

25 Beyond Boundaries

Parents and Friends News The Parents and Friends Association (P&F) has worked tirelessly to support and bring the community together during Semester 2.

The Toorak College Parents and Friends Association have enjoyed a fantastic year! Our School community has continued to join in the myriad of P&F social events resulting in unprecedented attendance. We have welcomed many new families into our community, as well as connecting with existing families who have contributed greatly to the ongoing success of our Association.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the family businesses within our school community who have generously supported our P&F endeavours. The success of these events would not be possible without the help of so many. We are committed to supporting and promoting these family businesses while continuing to develop ongoing relationships for our community to flourish.

Over the past 12 months, we have purchased portable shade marquees, subsidised Equestrian event participation, assisted in raising funds for Friends of Groups and facilitated the purchase of home readers for Wardle House students. Our larger financial contribution was a donation of $25,000 towards the redevelopment of the exterior DIGI Zone area for everyone to enjoy.

Our events this year have engaged more student participation.

We have been delighted as our children shared beautiful poems and their musical talents during the Father’s Day and Mother’s Day breakfasts, and Carols by Candlelight. Our VCE students paraded their Jean Paul Gautier inspired designs at the Oaks Day Luncheon while the Art Club students showcased their handmade fascinators.

In 2016, we will focus on further engaging our students to participate in our events whilst providing a platform for them to showcase their talents and further develop their leadership skills.

The Parents and Friends Association look forward to sharing our calendar of events with you and I extend a warm invitation to all the Toorak College community to join us in a fun-filled and memorable 2016.

Mrs Tanya Wilson President, Parents and Friends Association

26 Parents and Friends News

OAKS DAY FASHION PARADE This year the garment was to also include a design feature that reflected Jean Paul Gaultier and his style after their visit to the exhibition at the NGV at the beginning of the year. Another consideration was that the garment was to cost no more than $100.

Students in the Product Design and Technology class designed and manufactured garments which were paraded in the Oaks Day celebrations this year.

For each Unit the Design Brief is set by the teacher giving parameters from which the students have to consider. For this Unit the students began with an original garment that they modified and improved taking into consideration the garment’s aesthetic, consideration to the materials, function, and sustainability.

The girls did an amazing job and it was a wonderful opportunity to show off their hard work during the fashion parade.

‘The part of Unit 1 I enjoyed the most was that whilst exploring and working on our own Jean Paul Gaultier inspired garments, we didn’t have any boundaries. We were able to create and let our garment evolve as we wanted; using a range of techniques, fabrics and trims to achieve the end piece.’ Sarah M 27

Parents and Friends News

Special achievements Semester 2 has been busy and seen many students accomplish special achievements. Just some of these are listed below.

• Jasmine Dennison (Year 10) and Matilda Alexander (Year 11) achieved fantastic results in Equestrian this year at top levels in inter-school and national events. Matilda was named in the Top 10 Showjumping Young Rider Championship. Jasmine is the current Australian Junior Showjumping Champion (2nd year running) and was also one of the top three finalists for Equestrian Victoria Young Athlete of the Year. Both girls travelled to Germany in July to compete at the International Junior Teams’ competition, gaining valuable international experience as well good placings. Jasmine was interviewed on television in Germany and spoke in German.

• Henrietta Lawrence (Year 12) competed in the Australian Cross Country Championships in Melbourne in August and placed 6th overall in the Under 20’s & 3rd in the Under 19’s with a time of 21.20 for 6km • Vanessa Bradbury (Year 11) has been offered a place in the National Science Youth Forum in Canberra.

• Congratulations to the girls who competed in Hillary Challenge and came 5th overall. They were the first all girls team to finish.

• Students participating in the Great Vic Bike Ride completed 540 kilometres over 9 days showing determination and strength.

• Olivia Bourne (Year 11) won 1st place and Bella King (Year 11) won 4th place in the Special Occasion category of the Peninsula Teenage Fashion Parade at Dromana Secondary College in October.

• Congratulations to the students who participated in the 40 hour famine who raised an impressive $9,824.40.

• A team of Toorak College students joined the fight to reopen a historic cliff walk in Mornington, running an online petition and speaking at a council meeting to help secure $50,000 in State Government money to repair it..

• Congratulations to our Year 11 students for winning 1st prize in the Sustainability & Analytics competition in October. The team consisting of Megg Banks, Joanne Lu, and Jo Dalstead confidently developed a well constructed presentation which in combination with their analysis resulted in the team attaining first prize in the competition.

• Jai Bai (Year 11) has been awarded a Melbourne University scholarship – Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars.

• Congratulations to Lauren Barry (Year 7) who is the Mornington Golf Club Ladies Medal of Medalists for 2015.

• Congratulations to Year 8 student Amalia Foy who won the Fast Track singing competition with her own rendition of ‘Say Something’ by A Great Big World. Amalia has won a recording session with Black Pearl Studios Management, a cash prize and an ambassadorship with the Australian Teenage Expo.

• On 5 December, Emma Wiggins attended the Gold Award Gala for Duke of Edinburgh in Victoria where she was among 75 young awardees who were acknowledged for this prestigious award. The program which has been running for 50 years in Victoria, supports young people to realise their potential as they strive to become empowered young leaders and engaged community members.

• Officials from Peninsula Health visited in November to present Dominique Mirabella (Year 11) with an award for winning the Peninsula Health Young Writers Micro Fiction Competition.

28 Student Highlights

I am Woman At this year’s Speech Night we celebrated the theme of ‘Empowering Women’.

Years later I suggested to my friend Helen Reddy that she should write some words down regarding her feelings on the subject of women’s liberation; and I would compose the music and construct the arrangement for the song. The following week Helen called me up to her house and she handed me a piece of A2 paper with some words written on it focusing of course on the awesome achieving power of women once they put their mind to something. Helen said to me, ‘Ray, see if you can do something with this’. The rest is history! ‘I am Woman’ became the number one women’s motivational anthem song around the world.

HOW RELEVANT DO YOU FEEL THAT THE SONG IS TO TEENAGERS TODAY? The soul and the motivational message remain just as relevant today and hopefully well into the future. Young women of today would do well to embrace the motivational energy that this song provides; stand up for themselves; and not let anything or anyone stand in the way of their ambitions and aspirations in life.

Students joined forces with our Music Department to create a video of ‘I am Woman’ for Speech Nigh 2015. It has been 40 years since this was the theme song for 1975 UN Year of the Woman. The School spoke with Ray Burton who co-wrote the song with Helen Reddy after he viewed the video on YouTube.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE A YOUNG WOMAN LISTENING TO YOUR SONG FOR THE FIRST TIME, TAKES AWAY FROM IT?

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOU TO CO-WRITE ‘I AM WOMAN’?

My inspiration originally came from my own mother’s strong work ethic. My mother was an absolute powerhouse of a woman; and apart from working full time in the day, she also had her own big band, managed to find time to write all of their musical arrangements; plus played dance halls and clubs on weekend nights. It’s exhausting just thinking about what my mother did; and how tireless she was in doing it. As an only child, I observed all of this activity in awe; and from an early age, I firmly believed that women were capable of doing just about anything they put their head and heart into.

A strong united belief that the much talked about ‘Glass Ceiling’ effect, which unfortunately is still evident in certain sectors of the work place, is there to be broken through. On the other side of this invisible ‘Glass Ceiling’, are wide open skies full of opportunity for any woman willing to work hard to achieve her goals. If a young woman puts her mind to it, YES she can be strong, YES she can be invincible, YES she will become the Total Woman.

29 Student Highlights

TRAK Chat President of the Toorak Collegians, Cara Pope, was married in the Chapel in August

My report for this edition of The Elephant is an incredibly personal one, so I apologise in advance for the mildly soppy tone! On 8 August 2015, I married my best friend and soul mate, on what was the best day of my life to date.

Everything about our wedding was so special, in a way I can hardly describe. I was particularly thrilled by the fact that ours was the first wedding held in the newly refurbished Chapel.

Ethereal and gloriously light-filled, this special space was the perfect backdrop to begin our happily ever after.

As it turned out, the whole day had an inadvertent ‘TC flavour’.

My three bridesmaids were all Collegians, a number of the guests had past and present connections to the School and the friend who helped coordinate all the suppliers on the morning of the wedding is a current staff member.

When the wedding cars pulled into the Toorak College gates we paused for a few minutes beside that well-known green hedge at the entrance to allow for any stragglers before the bridesmaids and I officially arrived. I remember a feeling of total calm passing over me as I contemplated those familiar branches. It was like coming home.

This sense of comfort and joy seemed to set the tone for the whole day and the months that have followed since. My husband and I have been so touched by all the well wishes we have received from every facet of the School community and we thank everyone for their love and support. It is amazing to have created such a significant memory at the place that has been a true constant in my life since I started at the School in Year 3.

Cara Pope (nee Litterick) President, Toorak Collegians

30 TRAK Chat

LAURA MCINTOSH DELIVERS A POWERFUL MESSAGE AT VALEDICTORY Laura McIntosh (Class of 2004), gave a moving speech to the Class of 2015 at their Valedictory Dinner this year. The following excerpts from her speech outline her message to the girls as they find their way into their futures.

‘DO WHAT YOU LOVE. It sounds deceptively simple, I know.

Do what you love. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not feasible, or it’s too hard, or it’s an impossible dream. It’s your impossible dream, no one else’s. The only person who can pass judgement on that is YOU, once you’re living it and breathing it. Once you’ve given it a red hot go.

‘As young women stepping out into the world. I know the term “young woman” can incite cringing, it certainly did for me when I was 18. I didn’t feel like a woman. But there is a power in the word, WOMAN, an age-old strength and wisdom. And as women here and now, we have this enormous luxury to take the reigns in our own lives, to steer them, to be in the driver’s seat – where many women before us did not and still to this day around the world, cannot for whatever reason.

And if you find that it’s not for you, whatever it is you’ve chosen, YOU can change it. You may have many lives, or many different chapters, doing many different things, that in some way come together to fill in your story. The notion of a singular, linear career path is not as fixed as it used to be. There is no shame in admitting to yourself that this wasn’t for you, but at least you tried. At least you had the confidence to actuate that dream.’

So I dare you, I urge you, to take up that power. Create the lives you want, do what you love, follow your instincts, act on your dream. Because if you don’t, that’s all it will remain a dream.’

CLOISTERS CLUB Collegians from the 1960s, 1950s, 1940s and 1930s were joined by special guests to celebrate the 40 year Anniversary of the Chapel with a special service on Sunday 19 July, 2015.

The service was followed by a luncheon in the Dining Room which providing a wonderful opportunity for Toorak Collegians to catch up with old friends in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

TOORAK COMES TO TOWN (TC2T) The annual TC2T was held on Tuesday 11 August at Mr Mason on Collins St, Melbourne. It provided a great networking opportunity for Collegians from various years. An intimate event that gave everyone an opportunity to connect and share experience in work, life and school. Christine Richards (Class of 1975) was the guest speaker, she spoke of her fond memories at Toorak College, her interesting career journey and the importance of women in the workplace.

The 2016 event will be held on Tuesday 9 August, if you would like to assist with coordinating your Alumni year for the event then please contact community@toorakc.vic.edu.au.

31 TRAK Chat

Free To Shine Shared values for international development, human rights, and leadership through service, have found three Toorak Collegians once again connected, in a united fight for education empowerment.

program each Free To Shine girl is given a book, bag, stationary, bike and uniform. Ongoing support is provided by Khmer Education Outreach Officers working from Shine Central in Siem Reap.

As former Toorak College students Lauren and Yvonne found their Year 9 Thailand camp a particularly influential experience.

‘Watching the Thai school kids run after our bus and waving on the last day of volunteering, was when I knew I was committed to education empowerment.’

For Georgia, Free To Shine has given her the opportunity to apply branding and marketing skills to a cause she knows will have a ripple effect through developing communities. ‘I was struck by the goals and transparency of Free To Shine. I immediately knew that Free To Shine was something I wanted to be a part of, as I believe that educating girls is the key to positive change.’

You can assist Yvonne, Georgia and Lauren in their quest for education empowerment by visiting the Free To Shine website at www.freetoshine.org.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Nicky Mih joined Toorak College to celebrate International Women’s Day this year as our special guest, recommended by a close colleague Georgia Morrison (Class of 2008) who described Nicky as inspirational.

Yvonne Clarnette (Class of 2010), Lauren Allnutt (Class of 2010) and Georgia Morrison (Class of 2008) volunteer diverse skills to assist charity, Free To Shine, to ensure Cambodian girls are in schools, not brothels. Free to Shine is a not-forprofit operating out of Mornington, giving Cambodian girls the resources necessary to attend school, thus protecting them from being trafficked into the sex industry. Led by Nicky Mih, the organisation is in its fifth year of operation and has recently enrolled its 550th student.

Nicky’s background is in child protection, teaching, psychology, personal development and coaching and she combines adventure, education and making a difference. It is her unique blend of studies and life experiences that inspired Nicky to spend a month with more than 200 girls rescued from sex slavery in Cambodia, and it was this experience that led to the creation of Free To Shine and organisation empowering girls through education to prevent sex trafficking.

Nicky began Free To Shine after meeting survivors of the Cambodian sex trafficking industry. Moved by their horrific stories of human rights abuse, she asked the survivors how she could help. Their answer was simple – ‘if we were in school this never would have happened to us’. When enrolled in the

Lauren Allnutt Toorak Collegian 32

TRAK Chat

Artistic influence Collegian Debbie Mackenzie (class of 1986) reflects on her time at Toorak College.

I studied Graphic Design at Monash University and worked for 15 years in the advertising industry with multinational agencies, George Patterson Bates, M&C Saatchi, Y&R Mattingly, MOJO to name a few. I then worked at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as Assistant to the State Director and then Project Manager for ABC International Projects. During this time I lived in Elwood, St Kilda area, married Adam Mackenzie, did a few European trips and then had two children before returning eight years ago to Mount Eliza with my young family.

At this time I completely absorbed myself in full time painting and set myself some long and short term goals of which (touch wood) I have been able to achieve thus far. I have been painting full time for almost six years now and selling work consistently for three years and feel extremely fortunate to earn a living from something I dearly love doing. I had two exhibitions this year, most recently at The Manyung Gallery Group, which I am thrilled to say was a sell out.

I have extremely fond memories of my time at Toorak College and would very much love my daughter to have the same experience. When I was at school, the creative department was an amazing facility, way ahead of its time. I felt very fortunate to have those facilities available to me. However excelling creatively was not rewarded or really acknowledged. I am very encouraged that this has changed! I have wonderful memories of House sports and assemblies with talented musicians and singers. A school with so much creative talent in drama and singing. I forged wonderful life long friendships and a good sense of values and discipline. It was a beautiful and influential part of my life that I reflect on very fondly.

Debbie Mackenzie (nee Haugh) Toorak Collegian (Class of 1986)

33 TRAK Chat

Joan Ansett Hall With Boarding House numbers growing, new activities and experiences are being enjoyed.

Term 4 has again certainly proved to be the busiest and seemingly fastest term of the year. The Boarding House, however, has seen a constant stream of activity from the start of the year to the finish. With twice the number of students and a huge increase in the amount of weekend activities, students and staff at the Boarding House have kept moving at a healthy pace.

Through the course of this year, students from Joan Ansett Hall have had the opportunity to participate in over 25 activities, and counting. This, in addition to the many school-related activities and challenges they also take part in, such as year level camps and excursions, Speech Night, Valedictory nights and musical concerts, has seen many of our girls push through their comfort zones and have some fantastic new experiences.

The Lion King at the Regent Theatre, Tree Surfing, Melbourne Colour Run challenge and several more activities were experienced this semester. The students are eager for 2016 with many amazing activities and experiences in mind.

Shelly-Ann du Plooy Head of Joan Ansett Hall

34 Boarding News

Events Calendar We extend a warm welcome to all members of the Toorak College community to attend these special events.

WARDLE HOUSE ART EXHIBITION

COLLEGIANS AGM*

Event Date: Friday 19 February, 2016, 5:30pm–6:30pm Venue Location: Wardle House, Toorak College

Event date: Sunday 29 May, 2016, 2:00pm Venue location: Toorak College

LANTERN FESTIVAL

TOORAK COMES TO TOWN (TC2T)*

Event Date: Friday 19 February, 2016, 6:30pm–8:30pm Venue Location: Cloisters, Toorak College

Event Date: Tuesday 9 August 2016, 6:30pm–8:30pm Venue Location: City location TBC

All welcome to a the Lantern Festival to be held in the Cloisters, featuring Asian food, performances and fireworks to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Designed for Collegians who are now living and working in and around Melbourne. TC2T provides a great networking opportunity for Collegians.

OPEN DAY

2017 HEAD GIRL SPEECHES

Event Date: Saturday 20 February, 2016, 10:00am–1:00pm Venue Location: Wardle House, Toorak College

Event Date: Tuesday 30 August 2016, 11:15am refreshments for 12.10pm start Venue Location: Mary Herring Hall

WILDERNESS SHIELD*

FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

Event Date: Friday 4 March, 2016, 5:00pm Venue Location: Toorak College

Event Date: Friday 2 September 2016, 7:00am Venue Location: Mary Herring Hall

The Wilderness Shield is a friendly competition between the Year 12’s and the Collegians and includes swimming races, tennis matches, bocce, badminton and netball games.

WINE BLUFF Event Date: Saturday 10 September 2016, 7:00pm Venue Location: Dining Room

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY* Event Date: Tuesday 8 March 2016, 11:00am Venue Location: Toorak College

SPEECH NIGHT Event Date: Friday 14 October 2016 Venue Location: Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University

The girls and women of Toorak will come together on this special global day to celebrate the economic, political and social achievements of women. Guests will be inspired by the stories from Collegians who are making a positive difference.

OAKS DAY LUNCHEON Event Date: Thursday 3 November 2016 Venue Location: The Royal Hotel, Mornington

MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

Event Date: Friday 6 May 2016, 7:00am Venue Location: Mary Herring Hall

Event Date: Friday 25 November 2016 Venue Location: Mary Herring Hall

A morning to share and celebrate the special women of Toorak College while enjoying a special breakfast served by the Dad’s of Toorak College

Please note – events marked with an * are Collegian specific events

2016 REUNIONS* Event Date: Saturday 21 May 2016, 11:30am Venue Location: Toorak College A special luncheon combining the Classes of 1976, 1986, 1996 and 2006 is planned including a school tour and photo in the Cloisters followed by a luncheon in Mary Herring Hall. Guests from other year groups and past staff are encouraged to attend.

35 Events Calendar

Toorak College Lantern Festival 2016 Friday 19 February, 2016

Street food, market stalls, henna, stilt walkers and entertainment, martial art demonstrations, facepainting, reptile farm and fireworks.

6:30pm to 8:30pm Cloisters Toorak College

Follows the Wardle House Art Show.

Bring a blanket, chairs and your friends for an evening of fun!

For further information please call the Community Office 9788 7279 36 Joan Ansett Hall

✂

TC

SNIPPETS

The refurbished Chapel was opened in July with a celebratory service and lunch.

Competition during House Drama and Variety was fierce with some impressive performances.

Japanese exchange students visit Wardle House.

The Human Powered Vehicle (HPV) team participated in the RACV Energy Breakthrough in Maryborough in November.

The Toorak team taking on the Hillary Challenge.

Old Mornington Road, Mount Eliza, Vic, 3930 Phone: 9788 7200 | www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au CRICOS provider code: 00349D CRICOS course code: 005454G