Ut Prosim 2022

UT PROSIM 2022

A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Contents

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

We welcome the experienced Ms Catherine West (1986), as the new Chair of the Wenona Board of Governors.

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Set your own course – “To fly with their own wings, and not the wings of others, is the clarion call for this generation” – Dr Briony Scott.

AWARD WINNING

The recognition kept coming in 2022, including the Australian School Principal of the Year Award (non-government) for Dr Scott.

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LEAVING UKRAINE

A new chapter has begun for Dasha as a student at Wenona, but while her feet walk on Australian soil, her heart is with the people of Ukraine.

ELITE PROSPECTS

Don’t let her age fool you; 14-year-old Lily has already made her mark on the international ice hockey scene.

I UT PROSIM 2022

ON STAGE

Fresh takes on classic and contemporary performance with our Junior and Secondary productions of The Crucible and Annie JR.

BOOK BENEFIT

Junior School Student Representative Council members turn their concern for the flooded Lismore Library into a deluge of book donations.

RISING STAR

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HOLLYWOOD CALLING

Ms Lucy Freyer has made the big time, starring opposite Owen Wilson on the screen and treading the boards in an Off-Broadway play.

REGULATING BIG TECH

Ms Kate Hayes (2002) is working in the fast-paced world of big tech to ensure the safe and ethical use of social platforms in the Metaverse.

MOTHER COURAGE

Going from adoptive parent to published author, Mrs Sarah Salmon is sharing her experiences to help make the journey easier for others.

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CIRCLE OF SERVICE

A tribute to former Foundation Chair Mrs Marie Soghomonian, whose years of giving back to Wenona are helping shape her own future successes.

THREAD BY THREAD

Wenona Archivist Dr Elizabeth Hartnell and volunteer Mrs Jane Howland – weaving the past into the present one thread at a time.

FOUR PEAS IN A POD

The Walsh sisters’ Wenona legacy – passing down a love for the School from one generation to the next.

ALUMNAE SCHOLARSHIPS

Our bright and talented 2022 Alumnae Association Scholarship Winners are getting ready to leave their mark on the world.

SPRING FEVER

The only downside to the WPA’s action-packed 2022 Spring Fair? Leaving at the end of the day.

UT Prosim 2022 | Editor: Christina Barriere | Writers: Christina Barriere, Jude Morahan | Designer: Digital Hero | Photography: Rowena Clarke Photography, Ian Barnes, Mike Bell - Raw Life Studios, Anthony Khoury Photography

Chair’s Message

I am honoured to have been appointed as the Chair of Wenona’s Board of Governors and to have taken up the baton from outgoing Chair, Mr Gary Turner.

Wenona has a very experienced and stable board, and I thank them all for volunteering their time in the service of Wenona and for their continued commitment and support. On behalf of the Board and our whole community, I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Turner for their dedication and impeccable service to the School. Serving 11 years on the board overall, Mr Turner has been an extraordinary Chair, and under his stewardship, Wenona has gone from strength to strength. Mr Turner has served with humility, clarity, and foresight. He has enabled Dr Briony Scott to lead Wenona to its current outstanding position.

We are incredibly privileged to have Dr Scott lead our School. Her strong and courageous influence resonates across Australia and the world, as indicated by her receipt this year, not only of the title of School Principal of the Year (non-government), but a place on the Australian Financial Review’s list of the five most powerful people in education in the country.

One of the key pillars of Wenona’s strategy is to be an employer of choice. It invests in its teachers and their training and development. The School’s incredible response to the difficult circumstances of the past several years is a testament to the quality of the Wenona staff. I commend and thank Dr Scott, her leadership team and all the staff for demonstrating such a strong commitment to the School and for their ability to adapt and thrive. They can also be very proud of their instrumental role in Wenona achieving another strategic objective – that of being a top-performing non-selective school and providing a wealth of opportunities for all our students.

Wenona is performing exceptionally well academically. It has ranked in the top 25 across all schools in NSW and the top 15 among non-selective schools in the state each year, for the last three years, achieving ninth place among non-selective schools in 2021. Over a consistent period, substantially more than 55% of our students have received an ATAR above 90; in 2021 30% of students received an ATAR of 95 or above. In the last three years, the School has achieved at least nine places on the All-round Achievers List (students with the highest Band 6 in at least 10 units of study) and at least six places on the Top Achievers in Course List. In 2021, Wenona’s top placings included first in Drama, third in Textiles and Design and fifth in both Spanish Extension and Textiles and Design. Wenona’s young alumnae attend the best universities in Australia and overseas. The School has a holistic approach and a wellbeing focus, supporting students facing challenges and celebrating all its students for who they are and what they have achieved.

Beyond academic achievements, Wenona is developing true Renaissance women with the ability to reflect on their world. The School excels in so many different fields, from Music to Drama and Visual Arts to Sport, as it seeks to educate and empower young women of spirit to serve and shape their world in whatever way they choose.

One of the most important aspects of Wenona is its community.

As an alumna and current parent, I am fortunate to have been a part of the Wenona community since the 1970s. I am forever indebted to my parents for choosing Wenona as the place to

educate my sister Deborah and me. Wenona and then Principal Ms Barbara Jackson inspired our generation and taught us that we could achieve anything.

When I think about Wenona, I think of a pebble being dropped in a pond with the ripples extending outward in repeating circles. Wenona has a positive impact on so many lives, its influence - those ripples - reverberating for decades and far across the world. The stories in this 2022 Edition of Ut Prosim are a wonderful demonstration of the vibrancy and impact of the Wenona community - across so many generations, continents, and fields.

I would like to thank each member of the Wenona community, in particular our parents, guardians, and grandparents. It is the involvement, energy and passion of each and every one of you, alongside the School, which makes Wenona such an outstanding and special part of all our lives.

The Board and I are very confident in Wenona’s future under the inspirational leadership of Dr Scott and her team as they continue to educate and empower young women in a global learning environment. I hope you enjoy reading Ut Prosim and finding out how the Wenonians of all generations featured in these pages are serving and shaping their world.

Ms Catherine West (1986) Profile

Ms West has been on the Board of Governors of Wenona since 2017 and was appointed Chair in August 2022. She is a non-executive director and strategy advisor whose wide-ranging expertise includes the media, the arts, and the medical and automotive sectors in Australia and Europe.

Ms West is a non-executive director on the boards of three ASX-listed companies: Nine Entertainment, Peter Warren Automotive and Monash IVF. She is also on the board of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), the NIDA Foundation Trust and the Sydney Breast Cancer Foundation Limited. Ms West was a practising solicitor before becoming a full-time non-executive director in 2016. She is a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Ms West is a past student of Wenona (1986). She graduated Dux of her year, was Head of Hooke House, a Prefect, and a member of both the Firsts Hockey team and the Year 12 Debating team.

After leaving Wenona, Ms West completed a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Economics degree from the University of Sydney where she resided at Women’s College.

She has three daughters, Isabelle Fouter, who graduated from Wenona in 2021, Zoe Fouter (Year 11) and Charlotte Fouter (Year 9). Her sister and extended family members also attended Wenona and her niece is currently in Year 5.

Dr Briony Scott Principal, Wenona School

Principal’s Message

She flies with her own wings (alis volat propriis)

At the end of a long and very different 2021, our Celebration Day theme focused on recognising what we can control, in a world where much can feel beyond us. It has, of course, ever been thus - but we learn and relearn this lesson throughout life. It is important that, no matter what happens, our young women know they are strong and capable, kind and courageous. It is important that we remind them of their ability to set the course of their life, to follow their dreams, to be true to who they are called to be. 2022 has been a year where we actively cultivated this sense of independence and grit throughout our community, and this edition of Ut Prosim is a testimony to the lives of Wenonians – young and old – who are walking their own path.

To fly with their own wings, and not the wings of others is the clarion call for this generation. To navigate a way through their life where a young person has done the best they can, to be the best person they can be, in service not to self, but to others.

The 2022 edition of Ut Prosim acknowledges our School community and particularly the women who have graduated and carried with them the character-based traits that are proactively taught while at School and that continue to develop on leaving. We measure success then, not only by consistency of strong and good character but by the diversity of pathways undertaken and richness of lives lived. Ut Prosim, that I may serve, grounds us in all we do, and

the extraordinary diversity of how and where this plays out, reflects the courage and strength of women, to fly with our own wings.

Wenona alumnae are everywhere – they are found in university halls, corporate boardrooms, fashion houses, operating rooms, movie sets, courtrooms, and childhood centres. They work on wards, in classrooms, in consultancies, and in homes. They are trekking the world, serving in urban slums, developing IT solutions to complex problems, leading NFPs, and raising families, all as they live out the School’s vision to ‘serve and shape their world’.

While the paths of our alumnae are diverse, their values are consistent. They live lives that reflect our work to broaden student perspectives and engender a global outlook, as demonstrated by the myriad of international university offers achieved by the Class of 2021 alone.

This diversity is reflected closer to home, with the multitude of languages spoken at Wenona, particularly in our Junior Years, and our ongoing focus on Global Diversity. We seek to encourage young people to speak out about the value and joy found in our differences and the importance of building international understanding and developing the agency to bring change in the world, where needed. As an example, our Global Diversity Club’s work was featured at an international symposium earlier this year as an inspiration for other schools and educators.

Finally, as we conclude this year, I want to acknowledge the extraordinary commitment and dedication of our outgoing Chair of the Wenona Board, Mr Gary Turner. Schools around the world have been under enormous pressure, as a result of the events of the past few years, but here at Wenona, we are fortunate to have a Board characterised by patience, calm, wisdom, and grace.

Mr Turner has been an exceptional Chair. He has proven himself to be a visionary, thoughtful, and measured leader with the ability to reduce even the most complex of situations down to three main points. I have learnt an enormous amount from him and am deeply grateful for his leadership and guidance over my time as Principal.

As his tenure at Wenona comes to an end, and the baton is passed into the hands of the very experienced Ms Catherine West, I would like to thank Mr Turner for his years of service to our community. In my farewell talk to the Board, I quoted the words of Pericles; “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is woven into the lives of others”. He has invested in our lives, in our children’s lives, and in the life of our community, and for that, we are all very grateful.

I commend this edition of Ut Prosim to you and trust it brings you as much joy reading it, as it does to us walking alongside our community over the last year.

SCHOOL LIFE

Award Winning

The awards kept coming for Wenona and its Principal in 2022.

Success rarely comes without the support of many. In response to the news of the numerous awards and nominations received by the School this year, Dr Scott was quick to reference a favourite phrase from Christian African philosopher J.S.Mbiti: ‘I am because we are; and since we are therefore I am’.

The Australian Education Awards (AEA), the leading national independent awards event for the Kindergarten to Year 12 sector, named Dr Scott School Principal of the Year (non government) at a gala dinner in August. Her citation read in part: ‘Dr Scott’s leadership is characterised by exceptional guidance and care, particularly towards those experiencing hardship and challenge. She is unapologetic in creating a School environment that empowers girls and young women, engendering the strength of character, agency and leadership skills required to serve and shape their world. Her leadership approach is driven by a belief in the power of kindness and compassionate action, and built on a practice of deep listening to the narratives of others.’

Wenona educators and programs were nominated in three further categories:

Best STEM Program (non-government): quality STEM programming is a core Wenona focus and the number of our students choosing STEM-related electives has increased four-fold over the last five years. Initiatives include our Stage 6 Engineering class, Biotechnology Unit, integrated Year 12 Biology ‘skills lab’ and partnership with the University of Sydney

and Amgen. The School has also introduced staff mentoring and coaching opportunities and grants and fellowships, further lifting the profile and delivery of STEM learning.

Boarding School of the Year (non-government): Wenona Boarding was named an Awardee not only for its delivery of outstanding residential care for students and their families over many years but for its exceptional stewardship during the pandemic. Wenona boarding staff are renowned for creating a loving, caring culture where every student feels known and valued. This focus was redoubled during the stressful conditions wrought by COVID-19, with online meetings, personal phone calls from the Head of Boarding, and wonderfully engaging student projects to remind boarders of their valued place in a family beyond their own home.

Secondary School Teacher of the Year (non-government)

Natasha Isbel: Wenona’s Middle School Head of Teaching and Learning Ms Natasha Isbel, is a former practising lawyer. She was recognised for her high-quality teaching practice, her students’ impressive results, and her exceptional ability to provide targeted feedback. Ms Isbel’s work to boost literacy in the Middle School through the development and implementation of a Foundation Skills class, was also noted. More acknowledgement came for Dr Scott in late September, when she was named one of the five most powerful people in the Australian education sector, on the Australian Financial Review’s (AFR) Power List.

An extract from the AFR article reads: ‘It’s been said that the way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them. Earlier this year, Scott, who is principal of Wenona School in North Sydney, railed against the baseless attacks and misinformed opinions by politicians about the teaching profession … With so many parents attuned to her deeply personal yet universal message, perhaps it’s time for politicians to sit up and take note.’

A number of Wenona staff received recognition in the form of Fellowships and Seeding Grants at the annual Board of Governors’ Dinner on 12 August:

Head of Visual Arts Ms Michele Brennan was awarded a Wenona Teaching Fellowship to progress Visual Arts instruction through a journey to Florence, Italy.

Kindergarten to Year 2 Coordinator and Year 2 Teacher Ms Kimberley Peck, received a Wenona Teaching Fellowship to experience the celebrated education system of Finland.

Food Technology Assistant Ms Karly Camilleri received a Wenona Teaching Fellowship and will complete a Bachelor of Education at Charles Sturt University.

Junior School Teacher Librarian Ms Tracey Porter, received a Wenona Seeding Grant to examine the librarian’s role within the context of the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Program curriculum framework.

Own Your Story

Wenona challenges and supports students to choose their own path. It is an approach reinforced by our Student Leaders each week in the Principal’s Assembly. They recount personal stories about living with conviction, persevering in the midst of struggle, and finding joy wherever possible ... and urge their peers to do the same. Often funny and wise, their speeches regularly contain insights that serve as a reminder to us all.

2021-2022 School Captain Emily Moulder investigated the role of heroes in our lives and encouraged us to look to find people in our midst whose inspiration can enrich our lives. She quoted her own hero, Ash Barty: “I’ve had my struggles but when I became vulnerable and enjoyed being me, that was the best part. So, for young girls and boys, stay true to yourself and chase your dreams. Then see what happens.”

2022-2023 School Captain Jemima Carmody shared a message about female strength: “We sometimes get pushed into uncomfortable situations, but we don’t have to bend to the will of others. While it is so important to be gracious, it is OK to be upset - to want to change things, to feel passion and anger, to ask for better when treated unjustly. You don’t have to sit down and smile. You don’t have to apologise for existing, for exercising your autonomy. Be honest in what you believe in and confident in voicing it.”

2021-2022 Debating Captain Grace Baric took inspiration from the ‘corrosiveness’ of comparison and inspired us to eschew female competition because: “I’ve learned that when one of us succeeds, the rest of us do too. The spotlight is not beamed on just one of us, but rather we burn bright as stars, creating spotlights for our friends. We all get to share a little bit of each other’s happiness, enthusiasm and triumphs.”

2021-2022 Music Choral Captain Luisa Martin urged us to be kinder to ourselves and focus on controlling the controllable. “To be able to own your story, you must let yourself fail and accept that you can’t control what’s happening around you, but you can control how you respond.”

2022-2023 Prefect Sophie Wright discussed the danger of labels, “This speech is for anyone struggling to escape the constrictions of these prejudices. You are more than what people think you are. I know personally, there is a strange comfort in conforming to others’ prejudices. It’s time to find yourself. I cannot stress enough that you need to do so before your identity is diminished by the misconstrued words of people around you or even your own inner saboteur.”

2022-2023 Prefect Ruby Stammer shared a message about courageously finding your voice. “It is easy for me to stand up here and tell you to speak out for what you believe in, when I myself am not that good at it. The truth is, sometimes it is hard. Sometimes it may feel like people won’t like you because of it. However, I encourage you to speak up. Express what you are passionate about, despite any fear that someone may disagree with you or judge you for your opinion. Challenge your friends and educate your family. We are in a position to instil change, and that starts with the people around us. Use your voice.”

2022-2023 Deputy Head Prefect Kalara Pringgoharjono asked us to consider whether our self-deprecation is really serving us: “We have bought into a culture where self-deprecation is somewhat normalised .... I admit that I too am frequently guilty of comments such as ‘that was stupid of me’ and ‘no, I just got lucky’, whether in humour, frustration or as an uncomfortable response to a compliment. When we say negative things about ourselves, even in so-called humour, they get internalised. It is a constant cycle of self-doubt that can manifest itself as a barrier, inhibiting growth and leaving us stuck in the very habits that we criticise ourselves for.”

Leaving Ukraine

Dariia (Dasha) Kurtseva (Year 10) addressed Wenona’s Principal’s Assembly in October to share her experience as a refugee from the Russo-Ukraine war. She asked us to keep her people’s plight front of mind and raise awareness, political support and funds, “no matter how small”.

Hi, I’m Dasha. I’m in Year 10. I’m Ukrainian, and I moved to Australia in April.

I’d like to tell you a little bit about Ukraine. Its history goes back centuries, but it gained independence only in 1991. Ukraine is a diverse country with lots of things to offer. It has forests and beaches, mountains and deserts, seas and rivers. Ukraine’s cuisine is one of the best in the world, with some dishes called crazy by foreigners, such as borsch, holodets and varenyky. My favourite thing about Ukraine is probably the Ukrainians. I can proudly call us the most united nation, as no matter what, we support each other and stay together despite the hardships we must face.

No one in Ukraine believed in the possibility of a full-scale invasion until 24 February. On that day, I didn’t wake up to the sound of my alarm, but to the sound

of bombs. My mum woke me up, saying: “Wake up, the war started”, and we had to run to the basement, which served as a shelter for the next seven days until we managed to arrive in Germany after fleeing Ukraine. There I could finally continue studying remotely at my school, since my usual education was disrupted by bombing and shelling.

Since I’ve come to Australia, my life has changed completely. So far, I’ve made lots of friends, visited new places, and come to Wenona, which has brought me an endless number of opportunities. The only thing that remains unchanged is the war in Ukraine, which is still going on. A week ago, my school in the centre of my city, the capital, almost got destroyed because of one of the most intense bombings since the start of the war. Sadly, Ukraine still needs help, and as a Ukrainian, it is my mission to bring it.

Me and my family try to help as much as we can. We donate to official Ukrainian funds, such as Come Back Alive and the National Bank of Ukraine. We also attend rallies in an attempt to bring awareness to the ongoing situation in Ukraine and encourage countries (particularly Australia) to continue supporting Ukraine politically and financially.

Anyone can try to contribute to helping Ukraine. Bringing awareness by sharing news and social media posts, donating (no matter big or small), and attending rallies can help my country enormously.

Now, in Australia, the most important thing that I have is safety, and I’m very happy and grateful to be able to support my country as much as I can, even from a distance.

Outback Odyssey

Wenona Years 9 and 10 students crossed the country in the September holidays, working purposefully, gaining life lessons and making friendships in the majesty of the outback.

Separated into five groups, the students experienced locations such as Central Australia, the Kimberley and Kangaroo Island, in a welcome return for the Wenona Service Tours program. Each itinerary featured opportunities to work alongside Indigenous people for a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture and the biodiversity of the Australian landscape.

Bethan Griffiths (Year 9) visited Central Australia, where the key experience was a stay on the property of Indigenous couple John and Lorraine Little. The students spent their days learning to dig trenches, mix and lay cement and make a plant nursery, as well as hunt for witchetty grubs and make Aboriginal-style jewellery from fruit stones. At night, they sat around the campfire, listening to Indigenous stories before sleeping in swags (under the stars when the weather permitted).

Sarah Wiggins (Year 9), was in one of three service groups that journeyed to the East Kimberley region and describes working with the local Indigenous children as transformative. “Our service was centred around the Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) and their work to provide much-needed healthy activities and meals for Aboriginal children in the area. While we worked in the community garden and helped build a path in a nature learning space, most of our work was with the kids, preparing food and eating meals with them, kayaking, playing basketball and spending time at the skate park,” she says. “There was one eight or nine-year-old boy who would jump and wave with excitement every time he saw us. It made a big impact on me to see that it doesn’t matter if you have different lives and come from very different places. You can still make real connections and friendships.”

Each trip incorporated cultural learning activities and experiences in exhilaratingly beautiful outback environments. Sarah visited the deep gorges, ranges and salt flats of El

Questro in the East Kimberley. Bethan’s group discovered the majesty of Stanley Chasm and Kings Canyon. “The giant walls of Stanley Chasm made me feel so small, somehow putting life into perspective, while the area around Kings Canyon was just stunning. Our six-kilometre walk included the Garden of Eden sacred space. We got to walk in individually, 20-30 metres apart, so we could take it all in and connect with it in silence. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to.” A stay on a camel farm where they tried camel burgers was a novel experience: “they had a weird, different texture”, but the biggest impression was left by Uluru. “We were so immersed in the Indigenous culture by this stage that it felt different from what I imagine is the regular tourist experience,” she says.

“Our guide Leroy took us for a walk around the rock, telling us some of the less-heard stories and showing us the significant markings around the rock’s side. We started to build a much deeper connection and could appreciate the real meaning behind it,” Bethan says.

During the tours, the students were tasked with identifying the needs of the communities they visited and planning ways to fundraise for them on their return. Sarah’s group were so concerned by the underfunding of the East Kimberley PCYC’s essential work, that they will be raising money for its current programs. “They achieve so much with so little money and are really changing the lives of the children in the area. We just want to make it easier for them to do what they do.”

‘He who wishes to secure the good of others has already secured his own’ – Confucius

Showcasing Scholarship

Some of the most remarkable examples of student creativity and insight arise from the HSC major works process. These impressive projects are designed to reflect not only a Year 12 student’s mastery of a subject but their capacity to analyse, think originally, and maintain a consistent output. Here, we outline some of their inventive ideas and fascinating research.

Are sports drinks worth it? Zoe Robertson compared the effect of sports drinks and water on electrolyte balance after vigorous exercise. She hypothesised that due to the lack of evidence provided by sports drink manufacturers, it is likely their products fail to replenish lost electrolytes better than plain water. She recruited 10 participants to complete six workouts each, three during which they consumed water and three during which they consumed sports drinks. During their workouts they wore a sponge apparatus to absorb sweat, which Zoe then analysed to test for sodium and potassium levels. Though Zoe’s findings are not scientifically valid due to the ethical

constraints on her process, the sponges worn during the sports drink exercise sessions contained significantly higher levels of sodium and potassium than the sponges worn during the water exercise sessions.

Visual Arts: Seven Visual Arts students were nominated for inclusion in the HSC Showcase ARTEXPRESS including Holly Houssarini and Olivia Kennard. Holly was the recipient of the Wenona Creative Arts Scholarship and a finalist in the 2021 Head on Photo competition. Her HSC Body of Work Domestic Landscapes is a continuation of the imagery she created for that

competition – studies of her family life capturing the layers of meaning “built on decades of Lebanese culture, folklore, and virtue. They are where memories sleep and where memories are born”.

Olivia’s collection Heart Aches in Absentia investigated the universal human experience of missing someone, “whether through distance, loss, heartbreak or change”. She movingly depicted her grandmother, father and sister using dramatic chiaroscuro lighting.

Aliya Ryan used patterned light screens and other unexpected elements for her Body of Work and has received early acceptance to the Whitehouse Institute of Design, where the famed Australian creative Akira Isagowa is a Mentor.

English: In her short-fiction piece, The Merry-Go-Round, Frances Davis, inquired into both the national mythology born from Australia’s colonial past - “the poverty-stricken, soot-covered chimney boy to stripe-clad convict

braving rough seas on little more than crumbs,” and the glorification of Australia’s participation in World War One, particularly at Gallipoli. She says her work “speaks into the literary echo chamber that perpetuates a national identity founded on bloodshed, prided on the erasure of an enemy, the celebration of a male voice, the redaction of the feminine, the different, cyclically.”

Imogen Wells (2021) was recognised in October this year, for her English Extension 2 Major Work In a Split Second, which was selected for inclusion in the prestigious WordXpress Young Writer’s Showcase publication. As the daughter of an army officer and the granddaughter of a Vietnam war veteran, Imogen says the creative nonfiction piece aims to spark new reflections and lines of enquiry around war literature’s relationship with morality. “Every challenge has helped me grow. The journey ignited great enthusiasm for where reading and writing might take me in the future … and left me with more questions than answers.”

Textiles and Design: For her Major Project, Jemima Andreas created a delicate pink-hued dress called Anastasia. It drew inspiration from the Japanese kimono, cherry blossoms, the Moschino 2018 Spring/Summer collection, and the Regency era which featured a bust and waist-emphasising feminine aesthetic. The skirt was made up of hand-dyed and hand-cut ‘petals’ covered with tiny glass beads.

Design and Technology: A portable storage and sleeping solution for homeless people was the concept created by Lucy Robertson for her Major Design Project. It was constructed with plywood and bamboo veneer which she moulded into a curve with a vacuum former.

“My aim was to create a functional and practical design that could assist with alleviating some of the issues associated with homelessness,” Lucy says.

Drama: Emily Hamilton was nominated for the Showcase OnStage for her performance of a monologue from The

Remains of Maisie Duggan. It was a darkly themed dystopian piece that offered plentiful opportunities to demonstrate Emily’s acting range. “It really appealed to me because though her experiences were very far from my own, she was a rich, three-dimensional character who had endured so much,” Emily says. The Wenona Group Performance Ditch the Witch was also nominated for OnStage inclusion.

History: Constance Panos evaluated “national historical consciousness and the use of memory, nostalgia, and trauma in progressing socio-political agendas” in her Major Work The Golden Days. “I examined how nations can distort historical ‘truths’ to amplify a positive image whilst instilling a sentiment of patriotism and belonging amongst disillusioned populations, specifically in eras of global upheaval,” she says.

International Relations

The Global Citizen Student Ambassador Program is an ambitious initiative that recruits young ‘change makers’ at schools across Australia and New Zealand to help develop global competence among young people. In June, its representatives used Wenona’s Global Diversity Club as an example of successful global thinking in action by screening a video made by its Captains at the International Conference for Transformative Education for Global Citizenship. “Ours is a safe and inclusive environment that provides opportunities to build friendships across year groups, leadership skills and a strong student voice,” Ivy Wang, Georgina Hammett, Valentina Holland, and Nashara Jayasuriya told the large audience in their recorded presentation.

Wenona’s Global Diversity Club was established in 2019 and now has around 40 signed-up members from Years 7 to 12. Its efforts have contributed to an increased understanding and celebration of diversity in all its aspects across campus.

As part of the 2022 Global Citizen Student Ambassador

Program, run by Meg Languages, Ivy, Georgie, Valentina and Nashara met with student leaders from a variety of schools via Zoom three or four times a term. They received presentations from people making a difference on global issues around the country, ideas for global-oriented school activities and scaffolds on how to implement them, as well as leadership training. Their work culminated on 24 November with a public presentation on the outcomes of their efforts.

A central activity of the Global Diversity Club was the creation of a video about diversity in all its forms, featuring interviews with Wenona students and staff.

International Classroom Collaborations

Year 12 Science Extension students acted globally through an educational partnership with students at Yashiro High School in Japan. Both sets of young people improved their intercultural and scientific understanding by presenting the findings of their investigations to each other over Zoom. Their relevant and timely topics included the impact of chemical interventions to preserve the freshness of vegetables and a comparison of drug delivery methods in cancer therapy.

Years 9 and 10 Spanish students made friends and improved their language skills through a partnership with the Kipling Campus Irapuato school in Mexico. Every week during the first half of the year, they engaged in dialogue via Padlet to improve every aspect of their Spanish learning. In the latter part of the year, they chatted with peers in Chile, Argentina and Spain. “It has been very motivating to see how this platform for communication has given students a sense of purpose in their Spanish lessons. Access to native speakers inspired their written language development as well,” said teacher Kati Varela. “It was especially interesting because their culture is so different from ours and so distinct. I now know a lot now about Mexican dancing and food as well as improving my Spanish!” said Sophie. “It’s different when you speak to a real person, and you know they are your age – it definitely makes Spanish more enjoyable for me,” said Sarah.

And not to be left out … students studying French in Years 10 and 11 held their own conversation sessions with peers in France and Canada.

“Never tell a young person that anything cannot be done” –G. M. Trevelyan.

“The greatest obstacle to international understanding is the barrier of language” – Christopher Dawson.

Renaissance Women

Since 2013, Wenona’s Renaissance Studies program has been graduating strong, purposeful leaders of the future with the confidence to speak up and share their authentic selves. Like so many Wenonians, our 2022-2023 Deputy Head Prefect Sophie Ingham rates Renaissance Studies as one of her most valuable School experiences:

“From Year 5, it has been an integral part of my schooling at Wenona, both deepening my understanding of the rich social and cultural diversity of humankind and allowing me to better know myself and my place in the world. I believe that it has prepared me to one day leave School as a more aware and empathetic individual, as well as a more valuable global citizen.”

“To me, the power of the Renaissance Studies program lies in its ability to prepare Wenona students for a world where incredible beauty can be found in the different views, experiences, and stories of others. It encourages deep curiosity. As we examine the role of women in the world, this program emboldens Wenona students to be respectful and outward thinking, while inspiring us all to have a positive societal impact.”

“This year, through the Renaissance Studies Program, Year 11 studied religion and politics, and how they intersect. I found it incredibly thought-provoking, particularly when my cohort had the opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of stories from around the world. It was a privilege to be offered insight into such diverse global perspectives, and to be exposed to the issues that these remarkable individuals have navigated.”

In Year 5, the girls begin to tease out answers to ethical questions, reflecting on the importance of integrity and honesty, doing the right thing even when no one is watching, and saying what you mean and doing what you say.

In Year 7, they peek into the teenage brain through a unit on adolescent psychology and social engagement. They are taught to understand that while giving in to peer pressure, misreading emotions and poor self-control might be characteristic of the teen years, they are temporary and can be combated.

In Year 10, Renaissance Studies lessons look at sociology, with a focus on gender and the place of women in society. The students unravel stereotypes about male and female characteristics and roles, expand the definitions of both

and build an understanding of non-binary and transgender identities. They also look at the key social and political issues affecting women around the world and the gender-limiting traps in the workplace and online.

The Year 11 unit examines politics and religion, with a focus on contemporary global issues, helping students identify the long-term impact and interrelatedness of world events. Year 12 students gain lessons in life matters - practical topics and information to prepare them for life beyond school.

The Year 12 unit explores concepts aimed at preparing students for their post-school lives. Following through with the argument offered by ancient Greek philosopher Socrates that, ‘an unexamined life is not worth living’ and wisdom starts when we ‘know thyself’, the students muse over the philosophical question ‘Who am I?’ in a search for personal understanding through self-examination. They also consider in depth the ways that being young women may affect their world view and the assumptions they hold about themselves and others.

“The Renaissance Studies program aims to help the students recognise their worth; to be unstoppable, unshakeable, unsinkable” – Dr Briony Scott

Elite Prospects

Lily Roberts’ obsession with sticks, pucks and blind passes began on the suburban rinks of East Coast America. While most children were happy just to keep practising their figure eights, Lily wouldn’t stop looking over the barrier at the ice hockey players. “I thought ‘no thanks very much!’ because of all the gear and training,” says her mother, Liz. “But Lily really persisted. The decision to play came entirely from her. She loved the thrill and speed; it really captured her.”

Lily played in the States for four years before returning to Australia aged 11. The small pool of players here means she must compete in a mixed team. At the end of July, she was one of only two females on the winning NSW U15 team at the National Ice Hockey Championships. In October, she played for NSW again, this time in the Women’s National Ice Hockey Championship. The team won bronze and Lily was awarded the Most Valuable Player for NSW. She also plays for the Sydney Bears in both the U15 Mixed Team and the Women’s Team and is in the squad for the Sydney Sirens, who play in the Australian competition in summer.

But the real excitement for Lily came back in June when she helped Australia win a bronze medal at the 2022 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 Women’s World Championship Division II tournament in Istanbul.

Nine countries were represented: the Netherlands, Great Britain, Latvia, Kazakhstan, Iceland, Spain, Turkey, Mexico and Australia, with Spain finally taking the gold.

At just 14, Lily was the youngest age eligible to represent her country. She and her teammates surprised the Australian ice hockey community by beating the Netherlands and Latvia on their journey to third place - the first Australian team to do so.

It was an achievement made more significant by the fact that, while all members of the team were Australian citizens, a number live and play overseas. When they met in Turkey, they only had a few warm-up matches to gel as a group before the international competition began.

“Everyone puts in 100%. People who play ice hockey love ice hockey and put their heart and soul into every training and every game,” Lily says. “And we are also really close - not only all the Australian players but the international players as well. At the world competition in Istanbul, we joined the Turkish team for their traditional dance, and when it was over, we went on a boat cruise with the team from the Netherlands. I am still in contact with quite a few of the girls I met.”

The matches were streamed live on YouTube, so Lily’s Wenona friends and their families could watch from wherever they were and make encouraging comments from afar. But her biggest fan is her father. “He learned about ice hockey from watching me play and has driven me for hundreds of hours to matches across NSW and interstate. He now even manages our Under 15 team.”

Ice hockey star Lily Roberts is a professional sportswoman in the making, after significant wins both nationally and overseas.

Life Beyond Wenona

Life beyond school is a significant focus within the Senior College. A signature program for Year 11 students is our Academic Tours, which returned in Term 3 this year with four unique itineraries designed to comprehensively prepare students for the next stage of their educational journey.

The tours comprised: Victoria (University of Melbourne and Monash University), Queensland (University of Queensland and Bond University), Canberra (Australian National University) and Wollongong (University of Wollongong), and finally Newcastle (University of Newcastle) and Armidale (The University of New England).

“While each had a distinctive focus, they all opened the doors to university life, to ease decisions around tertiary institutions and undergraduate courses and make what can be a daunting transition as smooth as possible,” says Director of Student Opportunity and Careers Education Miss Samantha McFetridge.

Waiting at every destination was a group of Wenona alumnae, ready to respond to the students’ questions and academic concerns. Alumna Charlotte Collier (2019) was a volunteer tour guide on the Australian National University (ANU) trip. She took part in the Academic Tours herself as a Wenona Year 11 student, an experience she says shaped her decision to complete a Bachelor of Health Science degree at ANU. Now finishing third year, she has just been accepted into post-graduate Medicine. “It was a privilege to be able to pass

on my advice to the current crop of students as they begin to make their own tertiary choices ... and to offer them ongoing assistance if they end up enrolling at ANU,” she says.

2022-2023 Careers Captain Olivia Jackson (Year 11) participated in the trip to Armidale and Newcastle. “It gave me a better understanding of the numerous pathways you can take towards a medical career,” she says. “These universities have amazing facilities such as practice radiology machines and hospitals for nursing students to train in. Overall, the trip made me feel more comfortable about the idea of what waits for us after school.”

The Victorian tour began at the University of Melbourne, which is notable for the Melbourne Curriculum Model - a broader choice of subjects within each degree, in the style of tertiary education in the United States. This was followed by a visit to Monash University, which has been ranked 10th in Australia for graduate employability. “Going to Melbourne really helped me prioritise my choices,” says Kalara Pringgoharjono (Year 11).

“Now I am pretty sure I want to do either Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the Australian National University or Arts Law at the University of Melbourne. Wherever I go, I want to live on campus for the social opportunities it offers.”

The students who headed north-east visited the University of Queensland (St Lucia Campus) in Brisbane, where they attended mock classes in Psychology, Maths and International Humanitarian Law. At Bond University on the

Gold Coast, they experienced a Finance class, the university’s mock ‘Trading Room’ and a class on Architecture, as well as a detailed tour of the student gym and other amenities. Dinner in local restaurants and the chance to stroll through both cities led to a better understanding of life at university in the Sunshine State. “I would love to one day work for the United Nations or pursue a career as a humanitarian lawyer, and studying at Bond University is an option really worth considering,” says Gretel O’Brien (Year 11).

“We find increasingly that students are considering more diverse discipline areas and actively taking more positive risks with their tertiary destinations,” Miss McFetridge says. “The tours help them determine not only the best undergraduate course but the best cultural fit for their next academic destination. We are particularly grateful for the enthusiastic support of such a large number of young alumnae, whose insights really bring the tours to life.” The tours will return in March 2023.

‘Doors of the future are open to those who know how to push them’ – Coluche

Constructing Careers

Victoria Cross Station will transform transport to Wenona. To coincide with National Skills Week, Year 9 received a sneak peek at its progress and inspiration from the women helping to build it.

Opening in 2024, Sydney Metro’s Victoria Cross Station will be located on Wenona’s doorstep, making travelling to the School a breeze.

A group of Year 9 STEM Elective and Science 1 students went underground in August, for a rare, personal tour of the future station concourse and platforms and to meet the key women involved.

The visit was facilitated by alumna Jessica Paterson (2003), the Development Project Director. They participated in a panel discussion featuring female construction workers from areas such as project management, architecture, finance, legal, engineering, and human resources management. The speakers demystified the industry, by sharing the paths they took from school to their exciting careers.

“I took away inspiration and value, but also respect for the people in charge - it was a lot larger and more complicated than I had expected,” says Sienna Hughes (Year 9).

Women currently hold only 13% of construction roles in Australia, five per cent of which are leadership positions. The National Association of Women in Construction is looking to change that, with a goal of 25% female representation by 2025.

“It is important for young people to see inspiring female role models across a broad range of industries, particularly in areas where females are often under-represented. After all, you cannot be what you cannot see,” says Wenona’s Director of Student Opportunity and Careers Education Miss Samantha McFetridge. The location of this project made the learning experience even more valuable and authentic, due to its proximity to the School.”

Victoria Cross Station is named after what in Sydney’s earlier days was an empty space in front of the North Sydney post office where six roads converged. It is being built by a crew of around 450 people per day in the largest excavated railway cavern in the country, 31 metres below ground level.

“I enjoyed getting to see all the work that is put into building and planning the station. It shocked me how many skills are needed. It was also interesting to see all the trades in action, carrying out all their different responsibilities throughout the site,” says Nikita Plunkett (Year 9).

The station will connect the existing Metro North West Line that runs from Chatswood through North Sydney to the CBD and on to Bankstown. The project also includes a three-storey retail and dining space and a 42-storey commercial office tower.

- You cannot be what you cannot see

Taking a Stand

Out of a field of almost 1,000 competitors, Head Prefect (2022 - 2023) Jemima Carmody (Year 11) reached the national finals of the Rostrum Voice of Youth in July. Her prepared speech ‘War is not the Answer’, posed questions about the global community’s response to what she believes is an overwhelming dysfunction, instability and conflict in the

world, and the media’s tendency to heighten polarisation and division. “Words are the most powerful thing we have and learning to wield them is invaluable and incredible,” she says. Amelie Potts (Year 9) reached the State Finals of the contest, despite never having competed in public speaking before. “I actually didn’t know I was capable of public speaking because I had only ever done debating,” she says. “You have to speak to such a large audience, so I was nervous but I discovered it requires many of the same skills as debating and the topics were very broad, so I could focus on things I had experienced personally.”

The Schools Debating Network competition was a triumph for Wenona in September, with three out of our four teams winning their grand final debates. “Each student competed with outstanding eloquence and showed intelligence and dedication throughout the season,” says Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator Ms Lydia Parker. “We could not be prouder of them.”

In October, 25 Wenona students participated in the Independent Girls’ Schools Association (IGSA) Festival of Speech, sharing their skills in categories such as Debating, Poetry, Current Affairs, and Public Speaking. The School achieved second overall in Junior Poetry and second overall in Senior Public Speaking. “It was an amazing achievement as they were up against so many talented speakers,” Ms Parker says.

A strong, authentic voice is a key Wenonian quality. Our students are taught to speak up, inspire and advocate for the causes they believe in, and they shone in public speaking this year, with successes recorded across a range of competitions.

Fostering Gifted Artists

A Wenona pilot program is targeting artistic exceptionalism.

While school-based gifted and talented programs abound, schemes to develop high-potential artists are considerably rarer.

Through professional mentors and stimulating real-world tasks, Wenona’s new Visual Arts Talent Development program differentiates learning outcomes for artistic students.

The launch session took the students to the rich historical sites of Luna Park and Cockatoo Island to explore the theme ‘Decadence and Decay’. Fifteen

students worked under the guidance of sought-after artist Ms Amber Hearn, a finalist in the Glover Art Prize, Fisher’s Ghost Art Award, and the Blacktown City Art Prize, and Head of Department Visual Arts, Photography and Digital Media Ms Michele Brennan.

Using a list of potential artistic provocations, the students concentrated their gaze on the visual contrast between the art deco lines of Luna Park and the peeling industrial spaces of Cockatoo Island, searching for a “frisson, or a new way to engage with a sense of place”, according to Ms Brennan. The event concluded with

a group brainstorming session to capture everyone’s visual inspirations and artistic perspectives as a result of the experience.

The program continued with weekly three-hour workshops throughout Term 3. The girls’ artistic response to sites remained the focus, as they turned their attention to spaces within the School, engaging with and transforming them in innovative ways. The program concluded with an exhibition of the students’ work at the beginning of Term 4.

Appreciation Through Portraiture

Wenona achieved a prize winner and 11 finalists in the 2022 Mosman Youth Art Prize in June, with the judges making particular mention of our students’ technical skill and sensitivity.

Hundreds of young people aged between 12 and 21 from across Sydney entered the competition. “We were really impressed by Wenona’s strong showing this year. Its entries were really popular with the judges,” says Mosman Art Gallery Senior Curator, Ms Kelly McDonald.

Year 10 student Cassidy Mason won the Friends of the Gallery Prize in the Secondary category, for her beautiful pencil portrait The Tennis Table, of one of her grandmother’s friends. “I met Sherly at a tennis club where my grandma took me for lunch in Melbourne. Sherly used to be an art teacher and always complimented me on my talent. I thought it would be really special to draw her because she reminded me of my purpose and identity as an artist - her words brought me back to myself again. Producing this portrait helped me focus on creating something beautiful in hard times,” Cassidy says.

Year 12 student Olivia Kennard submitted a portrait of her grandmother Lorraine, winning a place in the finals. “I themed my piece Significant because my grandmother is so inspiring,” Olivia says. “Her father came back from WWII with post-traumatic stress and was very difficult to live with when she was young. She took on most of the responsibility for looking after her five younger siblings while her mother worked, did brilliantly at school, received a scholarship to university and worked as a teacher. Later in life, she struggled

with her own mental health but is very strong as a result, expressing gratitude, selflessness and generosity in everything.”

According to Ms McDonald, the intergenerational aspect of works such as those by Cassidy and Olivia, “touched both the judges’ and the visitors’ hearts”.

The 2022 Prize was judged by artist Rosie Deacon, who recently collaborated with Ken Done for a project during Australian Fashion Week. The Wenona students’ work was on display in the Mosman Art Gallery throughout June.

On Stage

Wenona performers lit up the stage in two major productions in Augusta welcome for Wenona Performing Arts after an almost three-year hiatus.

The anticipation inside The Independent Theatre was palpable as our Secondary School cast of The Crucible prepared to tread the boards before the first live Wenona audience in years. “It is wonderful to bring a Drama production back to the stage at Wenona. The most powerful thing about theatre is that it is live - an interaction between audience and actor. When a play is at its best, actors and audience members join in creating the event together. It was exciting to be able to do this again,” says Head of Drama Ms Tiffany Crittle.

For many cast members, it was their acting debut, and they did well to communicate the universal human themes in Arthur Miller’s challenging political text about the 1692 Salem witch hunts. The play was directed by actress Lizzie Schebesta, best known for her roles in Underbelly and Mr Inbetween, and who most recently appeared in A Dolls House at The Ensemble Theatre. “Through the rehearsal process, I challenged the cast to approach their characters with curiosity and without judgement,” Ms Schebesta says. “All were real people who lived once and found themselves caught in the quagmire of this imploding community. Nothing about this complex and widespread series of events was simple, and our greatest task was to humanise each and every one of these characters.”

Though full of the brooding, dark atmosphere of the 1600s, the play could not be more relevant to the digital age, with its themes of mass hysteria, the spreading of false stories, public humiliation and shame. “Theatre provides a unique opportunity for young people to learn about what it is to be human,” says

Ms Crittle. Ms Schebesta says she hopes the lessons of the play will stay with the students for a long time. “In Drama, students have the opportunity to learn through literally stepping into another’s shoes. The rehearsal process also asks young people to stretch into places they have not gone before. We had a wonderful time putting the play together. I learned so much from the passion, commitment and inquisitiveness of the cast and am so proud of what they achieved.”

The audience agreed that the production had been remarkable: “What an incredibly talented cast. We were in awe last night,” commented Ms Amber Morris. “Amazing, confronting and thought-provoking. A must-see! Well done to all the cast and crew on a brilliant production. So much talent!” said Ms Phillipa Friday.

Further north at The Concourse in Chatswood, just under 300 Junior School students brought enormous charm to Wenona’s crowd-pleasing production of the musical Annie JR. Few are unfamiliar with the classic Great Depression tale that follows the exploits of Little Orphan Annie as she journeys to find her parents and learns the true meaning of family.

This is the second time the Wenona Performing Arts Department has attempted to stage the show after the 2020 production came to a grinding halt due to COVID-19 lockdowns. “Most of the students had never participated in a Wenona musical before, which made the production even more exciting for everyone,” says Director of Performing Arts

Ms Kim Lemon. “Our Years 5 and 6 students are due special credit. Despite their lack of experience, they energetically threw themselves into auditioning for lead roles and worked together brilliantly.”

The audience was also full of praise as they poured out of the theatre. Mr Victor Andersson called it, “the highlight of my year,” while Ms Mellie Howell described it as, “absolutely sensational and a credit to the girls and teachers.”

New Moves

challenge is the maintenance of their physical strength and stamina, and a disciplined approach to dealing with any injuries as they arise.”

Did you know senior Academic Dance students are sharpening their mathematical abilities, solving problems, manipulating abstract ideas, and testing and evaluating solutions around time, rhythm, area, and volume each time they choreograph a dance?

Wenona introduced the subject for Years 9 to 11 at the beginning of 2022, with the first cohort of around seven students undertaking their HSC examinations in 2023. The NESA curriculum incorporates three main areas: Performance, Composition and Appreciation, culminating in a Major Work.

At the helm is the Head of Dance Mr Peter Fares, who graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and has performed with companies from across Australia and the world. He says no one should underestimate the challenging curriculum.

“The students also need to learn to collaborate really skilfully and communicate well, because a high-level verbal presentation forms part of the final HSC exam,” he says. “Another

“Academic Dance is an open space to explore abstract movements and create dances and phrases with your own brain,” says Year 11 student Matilda Keegan. “It is this freedom that I love the most, along with the ability to publicly showcase your own work.”

Wenona Academic Dance students from Years 9 to 11 unveiled their progress at their inaugural production UNITE at the Independent Theatre on October 17.

Three of the six performances were student-devised and covered current themes such as refugees, Indigenous experiences, cancel culture and narcissism.

Our new HSC curriculum dance program is building career-ready skills in surprising ways.

Conquering the Mountain

Wenona triumphed at the Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships in September, achieving the ‘Overall Champion School’ title in the Secondary Female category of the national competition.

After a campaign characterised by tough courses and tougher weather, including snow and hail storms, our 22 competitors surpassed the best skiers and snowboarders in the country, with a haul of 10 medals - two gold, three silver and five bronze.

This outstanding achievement reflected the depth of talent and consistency of every team member as well as an impressive level of sportsmanship and mutual support.

The students’ nationals success followed their remarkable results at the State Interschools Snowsports Championships, where Wenona won the Secondary Female Overall Cup, with nine medals and 16 top-six placings.

Strong performances were seen across all disciplines, particularly our Alpine, Cross Country, Ski Cross, Slopestyle and Moguls competitors, who won medals in their events.

Snowsports requires significant commitment and Wenona would like to especially thank the School’s Snowsports parents, so many of whom supported the team, including braving pouring rain, wind and snow to volunteer as course officials.

Steps to Success

It was the team’s breakthrough performance at the 2019 competition that first captured attention, earning Wenona the Most Improved School trophy and fourth place overall (with a score only two points away from third). As a result, the buzz around Cross Country within the School began to build, and participation grew to 30 students from Years 7 to 12, regularly attending early morning training every Tuesday and Friday.

Unsurprisingly, the competition was cancelled due to COVID in 2020 but the team maintained its enthusiasm and by 2021 was performing at an even higher standard, achieving third place overall. Twelve girls were selected for the IGSA representative team to race at the NSWCIS Championships and five gained selection to compete at the NSW All Schools.

“2022 brought more frustration, with wet weather causing the cancellation of the Wenona House Cross Country Carnival, COVID cases impacting the team and a substantial number of training sessions affected by the Sydney deluge,” says Ms Osborne. “But the students and their coaches kept their minds on the goal – to cement our place in the IGSA top three!”

This year, the team not only came third but coincidentally, scored the same points as in 2021. The 14-Years team took out gold, the 12-Years team came fourth, and all other teams

placed in the top nine out of 28 schools. Ten girls went on to compete at the NSWCIS Championships and three qualified to represent NSWCIS at the NSW All Schools.”

“Today we have 50 girls in the squad who train tirelessly throughout the year and the ability to field a full contingent of runners with at least three runners in each age group, has been a big part of our success. The camaraderie, commitment, and consistency of the squad has played a role as well,” Ms Osbourne says.

“Cross Country running can be quite a lonely, individual pursuit but every individual performance is extremely significant. The students have come to understand the importance of teamwork and have grown into a really tight-knit group of girls across Years 7 to 12. They spend so much time together that they have developed a special bond. The support and encouragement and the respect they have for each other is incredibly inspiring to witness.”

“It is near impossible to explain how rewarding and enjoyable it is to coach, manage, support, motivate, encourage and just be in the company of this incredible group of aspiring young athletes over the last four years,” Ms Osborne says. “I am certain there is more to be achieved!”

“‘Success breeds success,’ is a cliché regularly used in the sporting context and it definitely rings true for the Wenona Cross Country team,” says Head of Sport Ms Ann Osborne, as she reflects on its run of top-five results at the IGSA Cross Country Championships over the last four years.

Charting Her Own Course

As 2021/2022 Boarding Captain, Emily Hamilton has long been a source of inspiration for her fellow boarders. Now preparing to set sail in Europe, she’s looking back fondly on her Wenona years.

“I grew up in Narromine west of Dubbo on a family farm called ‘Gundooi,’ which in the Wiradjuri language means ‘solitary emu’. I’ve always felt an extremely strong connection to the land - it is in my blood, my bones, my roots.

I was so jealous when each of my older sisters left home to join the Wenona Boarding House. I wanted to become a boarder so badly myself, that I would attend the School’s Celebration Days of my own free will!

When my turn finally arrived, I was so excited I almost forgot to say goodbye to my parents. Boarding life proved to be exactly as I had hoped. I benefitted from so many co-curricular opportunities, the chance to access academic support, to explore the city on weekend excursions and make lifelong friends. Most importantly, I felt secure and comfortable - like I belonged. Boarding gave me a sense of community just like I have back home, as well as a feeling of self-acceptance and a desire to throw myself in the deep end. It supported me to become a fiercely independent young woman ready to tackle the next stage of life’s adventures.

After graduation, I am taking a gap year to work on superyachts as they travel down the Mediterranean … on my own. I feel a mixture of excitement and trepidation as

the realisation that I will be starting from scratch sinks in.

But I also feel a strong sense of confidence and opportunity. Wenona has taught me to ‘own my story’ and given me the courage and strength to guide what is yet to be written.”

Ut Prosim

The spirit of Ut Prosim has never shone brighter at Wenona than in 2022, as we wound back up after the COVID hiatus, and reintroduced our regular calendar of social justice activities, either in their usual format or as close to it as possible.

With the pandemic and climate change escalating the global hunger emergency, it was the 40 Hr Famine that captured our attention in August. Organised as a competition between Houses, Wenona donations skyrocketed over the course of several weeks, putting us in second place in the country, with a tally of more than $25,800 raised. “This is such an important cause, and the Wenona students’ contribution is nothing short of inspiring,” says 2022-23 Service Learning Prefect Valentina Holland (Year 11). “Almost all our teams met their $1,000 goal, which will go a long way in helping World Vision and its work. I believe service is particularly important for students in independent schools. Otherwise, it would be easy for us to exist in a sort of bubble.” Lucy Mathewson in Year 7 gave up eating for 40 hours and raised one of the highest totals. “My two friends Tilly and Belle came over for the weekend so that we could motivate each other. It wasn’t hard. I am lucky enough to have access to all the food I need, so it was a small thing to give it up for 40 hours to support all the people in the world who do not have enough,” she says. Other students encouraged friends and family to sponsor them to walk 40 kilometres, give up the activities they enjoy for 40 hours or perform 40 acts of kindness. “The Wenona community is

extremely generous. We have participated in the 40-Hour Famine since 2013 and raised tens of thousands of dollars each time. There is enormous enthusiasm for charitable giving at the School,” says Ms Seale.

The homelessness crisis crept deeper into the north shore during 2022, and our efforts for the Amnesty Sleepout for Homelessness in October were a chance to raise funds and awareness. The donations went to Taldumande Youth Services, which provides shelter for tens of homeless young people every night in St Leonards, around the corner from the School. The students camped in the Big Gym using sleeping bags (forgoing sleeping mats), shared a meal and listened to a speaker from Taldumnande Youth Services explain the scope of the problem and how to help.

The list of other charities and causes that garnered the students’ support throughout the year is almost too long to detail. They shone a light on positive mental health with RUOK Day, wore denim for genetic diseases on Jeans for Genes Day, sparred in sumo suits to raise money for the Armenian Children’s Fund, prepared meals for the homeless with Our Big Kitchen, played their instruments to inspire people in aged

care homes and schools for children with disabilities, wore pink for breast cancer research and joined their families for the Mother’s Day Classic (winning the prize for the largest number of participants for the third year in a row). In June, the staff held their own charity event, the Push-up Challenge, performing 3,139 push-ups over a week for the Push for Better Foundation and its efforts to support people with poor mental health.

During the September holidays Years 9 and 10 service learning tours set off for the outback, pouring cement, clearing sheds and building nurseries to support Indigenous people and their communities (see page 16). As is traditional, our 2022 efforts concluded with the Red Stocking Appeal which brings Christmas joy to children and families in need. Each House collected food and groceries for a different organisation, from the Artarmon Family Centre to Mary’s House Women’s Refuge, filling green and red bags to the brim.

External recognition for Wenona’s efforts came in August, when the School was nominated for the NSW Young Volunteer of the Year Award.

Thank you Ms Seale

Wenona’s inaugural Director of Community and Service Learning Ms Kate Seale, is synonymous with giving at Wenona. She began at the School back in 1986 and after a short break, took on the service role in 2013, overseeing House activities and building up a framework for social justice that harnessed the enthusiasm of both Wenona’s Houses and clubs. A strategic thinker, she linked each activity to the students’ interests and over time, drove a philosophy that saw service become increasingly student-led. It was also during Ms Seale’s time that overseas learning trips expanded, including memorable journeys to Cambodia and Vietnam to build houses for the victims of agent orange. A relationship with the Sydney Children’s Hospital was another highlightthe students helped fundraise at its gala events, resulting in a significant uptick in donations for this very worthy cause.

Ms Seale says she is as grateful to the Wenona community as it is to her. “When they get enthusiastic about something, the Wenona community goes absolutely wild,” she says. Ms Seale retired at the end of 2022 to spend more time with her husband.

Head Above Water

The Aquatic Centre was a splashing hub of determination on Saturday 10 September as the pool filled with generations of Wenonians, their families and Wenona staff, swimming for up to 12 hours each to raise more than $8,000 for the Black Dog Institute.

In line with the maxim that a good mood is just a swim away, they carved the water from 7am to 7pm, while the fundraising dollars mounted.

The swimathon was the initiative of the Wenona Aquatic team and designed to highlight the scientifically proven benefits of exercise as an antidote to many common mental health challenges.

There were other mental health-boosting activities too, such as a visit from Wenona alumna and two-time water polo Olympian Hannah Buckling (2009). She led a workshop on mental fitness, including some of the techniques she uses as an athlete, to perform at her best. Yoga classes and meditation sessions provided even more zen, and there were relaxing colouring in activities for the younger visitors.

“Science has shown that exercise has the power to lift your mood and your energy, sharpen your memory, and help you sleep better at night,” says Head Swimming Coach Mr Michael Creighton. “The Aquatics team wanted to remind everyone that swimming is especially good. We also knew we wanted to support the Black Dog Institute, so it was a bonus to discover

that alumna Hannah Buckling is one of their ambassadors.”

The real instigator of the 12-Hr Mental Fitness Swim was swimming teacher Ms Cristina di Traglia, who has personal experience of the mind and body benefits of water. “When I was young, there was never an opportunity to talk or learn about mental fitness”, she says. “Now I have learned that low mental fitness does not discriminate. It’s not a sign of weakness but a problem most of us will face at some point in our lives. Over the past two years, I have developed a strong relationship with my mental health and found ways to keep it steady. Swimming is a big part of that. When we feel good about ourselves, we can better contribute to others and the community. Strong mental fitness is a gift to the world.”

“The only difference between try and triumph is a little umph!”

Curious Minds

It is 14 months since Wenona gained its International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) credentials and our Junior School classrooms are teeming with student-led, inquiry-based, transdisciplinary learning.

But the teachers in Woodstock and Hooke House were already implementing the elements of an inquiry-based, crosscurricular approach - what is so different under the PYP?

It is a question best answered by exploring the kinds of projects undertaken in the Junior School over a year. Worldwide, PYP students learn through a series of Units of Inquiry (UOI) :

• Who we are - the nature of self, our communities and relationships

• Sharing the planet - the environment

• Where we are in place and time - understanding the past, the present and potential futures

• How we express ourselves - the importance of art and the ways we express ourselves culturally

• How the world works - looking at the world scientifically

• How we organise ourselves - examinations of sociology.

But the expression of each UOI at every school is always different - an alchemic blend of the interests and experiences of those students, at that time in their development, and that particular teacher. All UOIs are crafted to produce learning that is more rigorous, more authentic, more memorable, and more exciting.

Take the Sharing the Planet UOI studied by Year 5 during the middle of 2022, which grew from the students’ interst in media

reports about work to revive the health of ailing Sydney Harbour, particularly efforts to bring back animals such as White’s Seahorse, the green turtle, penguins, and seals.

During the six-week study period, they received a visit from one of the ecologists helping construct sea walls in the harbour designed for marine life to cling to and thrive. With a deep understanding of the reasoning and process behind the walls and other rehabilitation efforts, they then took a three-day journey to Chowder Bay and Cockatoo Island to see the sea walls up close, along with the other elements of the state government’s 9 million dollar rehabilitation project.

While there, the students conducted marine life surveys, learned from a PhD researcher about the latest on stormwater nets and marine animal reproduction, and saw the new ‘seahorse hotels’ constructed to protect the newly reintroduced White’s Seahorse population.

Year 5 also participated in a workshop with Take Three for the Sea, learning that 70% of the oxygen we breathe is produced by marine species. They discovered that we each ingest up to a scary 70,000 microplastic particles a year, which motivated them to advocate for better marine stewardship.

Some girls were so invigorated they reorganised their household recycling or advocated for marine stewardship with their family and friends on their return.

Intercultural experience is a key element of IBPYP learning. On Cockatoo Island, the students participated in an official white ochre ceremony led by Aboriginal community representatives, learned Indigenous fire-making techniques and gained an appreciation for Aboriginal practices around sustainability and ancestral law.

IBPYP learning is transdisciplinary and the Year 5 Unit of Inquiry has incorporated subjects such as English, Geography, Science and Mathematics. Their growing passion for the topic has proved contagious as parents, grandparents and other family members connected to the class began following the news on the Sydney Harbour restoration project and sent in any information they found.

“This is definitely an exciting way to teach and learn”, says Year 5 Coordinator Carlie Plummer. “It enables the delivery of a more dynamic and progressive approach as we incorporate the transdisciplinary themes to guide and develop engaging and relevant content. A key aim is to inspire the student’s initiative and that is certainly happening”.

Inspired by a carefully curated display of cultural treasures collected from staff across the School, Year 3 embarked on transdisciplinary learning about the celebrations, rituals and traditions that enrich the human experience.

Year 4 explored Aboriginal life before the European landing, investigating perspectives of 18th-century industrial revolution Britain and the impact of the British arrival on Aboriginal communities. They amassed substantial and sophisticated knowledge in the process of either writing a research book or creating a website.

In the lead-up to the culminating experience of the PYP - the Exhibition, Year 6 investigated the concept that ‘challenges provide opportunities for collaboration in action’. They researched the stories of people around the world who are making transformational change in areas ranging from saving elephants to women’s education. They wrote their own line of inquiry, made a general statement about the issue, researched the data, identified a ‘hope story’ and devised a meaningful way to take action. To conclude they created an artistic piecean interpretation of their issue of choice, through music, dance, or visual art.

Wisdom and Light

The theme for 2022 in the Junior School is Wisdom and Light, and its symbol is the humble wombat. This is because a collection of wombats is known as a ‘wisdom’, and the cuddly marsupials now nestle in many corners of Hooke House and Woodstock. “The information age is giving way to the wisdom age - an era of increasingly complex, layered information when wisdom will become the most desirable asset. Information is at the fingertips of all of us. What is important now is the application of that knowledge. That is why the PYP learning approach is so valuable. The students gain conceptual understanding, skills and personal attributes to enable them to make meaningful action in their community and beyond. They engage critically with significant ideas beyond superficial layers of knowledge and learn to communicate them in compelling and impactful ways, which will better prepare them for the world ahead,” says Head of Junior School Ms Justine Lind.

Book Benefit

The Junior School Student Representative Council (SRC) turned its concern for the flooded Lismore Library into a deluge of book donations, with a passionate, student-only promotional campaign.

It was a stark photo of a mountain of sodden books piled in front of the Lismore Library, that spurred the Junior School SRC into action. Many of the titles lost were from the children’s and young adult fiction sections. “It had been a huge, thriving, buzzing place of learning and reading and here it was with all its contents out on the street,” says Year 6 teacher and SRC facilitator, Mr Dean Pomfrett. SRC Captain Lucinda Vincent says it was a cause they could all feel deeply connected to. “Libraries are such good places. I think we could all understand how devastating it would be for the children who lived there,” she says.

The Captains addressed the Junior School Assembly, the SRC representatives from each class made presentations to their peers, and many more students collaborated on ‘enticing’ posters to display around the School grounds. Donations started pouring in, in response to their fast-acting grassroots campaign. All were new or near new and included beautiful editions of sought-after titles. “It was a stunning bit of student advocacy really,” Mr Pomfrett says. “Why I am most proud of the students is that not one email, note, flyer, or social media message went home to promote the cause - it was purely the result of the students’ own efforts,” he says.

Term 1 Class Captain Fleur Lingard, was the student who had first initiated the campaign. Impressively, she persisted with it, even after her leadership term had ended. “The main problem we had once the donations had arrived was how to get them up to Lismore,” she says. “Australia Post said they had free postage for a box of books, but we didn’t have one box; we had tens and tens of boxes. I talked to my mother (Edwina Gilbert, Executive Chair of the Phil Gilbert Group), and she said she would lend us a van and donate petrol so Mr Pomfrett could make the trip,” Fleur says.

“Another Junior School family, the Kennards, donated the cardboard boxes we needed, and numerous staff helped to organise and load them,” Mr Pomfrett says. “When I needed to stay overnight in Coffs Harbour because the weather was so dire, the Windmill Motel gave me a discount due to the importance of the cause and the children’s efforts - it was a broad community effort.”

“I arrived in late August, so six months after the initial floods,’” Mr Pomfrett says. “There was a damp and rotting smell, and I was shocked to see furniture and shop fittings still out on the street. The librarians of the town had converted a warehouse on higher ground into a temporary donation reception point. They were so grateful to see the quality of our books and

promised any they could not use themselves, would go to the surrounding schools.”

Fellow 2022 SRC Captain Lily Dalziel says the campaign served as a reminder to them all: “I think the whole process taught us there is always somewhere in the world that will need help and sometimes we can forget or not imagine, how much we have to contribute.” “It will be good when the students visit Lismore in the years to come, see its library restored, and know they played a small part,” Mr Pomfrett says.

ALUMNIE PROFILES

Rising Star

Sydney Roosters fullback Ms Jada Taylor (2021) lit the Australian sporting world on fire in June with a 109-metre try that attracted 1.7 million online views across the world.

Rising rugby star Ms Jada Taylor says her father knew she was fast from the get-go. “Dad was my original motivation,” she says. “I was playing league with the Dungowan Cowboys alongside my older brother by the time I was five and getting smashed! Dad played too and is still faster than me today.”

Jada’s explosive speed led to her acceleration into the Sydney Roosters National Rugby League Women’s team in August, and the moniker ‘electric fullback’. The promotion, at just 19 years of age, followed her 109-metre try in the 54th minute of the Under 19’s Women’s State of Origin match against Queensland in June.

Described by sports commentators as ‘absolutely insane’ and a ‘try for the ages,’ it not only sealed the match, but earned Jada the Nat Dwyer Medal, and attracted 1.7 million views online. Jada is characteristically low-key about the fuss, preferring to focus on what is really important to her:

“All my Wenona friends came to the game – they are friends for life. They sat with my family. It was so special,” she says.

Now Jada has star status in her hometown of Tamworth, which she left at the age of 15, to board at Wenona in Year 10. “It was very hard to move away from everything I knew. I had no family in Sydney and had not been to the city many

times. We really leaned on each other in the Boarding House – we became so close and COVID-19 brought us closer. I absolutely loved it.”

With her sights set on a career in sports after finishing School, Jada suffered a major setback in her senior years at Wenona, which required two shoulder reconstructions with an extensive recovery period. “I was so frustrated. Part of the reason I had moved away from home was to play sport. The fact that I may not make it did cross my mind.” Jada credits her resilience and drive to return to rugby to her tightknit family and supportive boarding friends.

Talented and skilful, Jada has made a success of both rugby codes, which is a rarity. Playing Rugby Sevens for Randwick Magic and rugby league for the Sydney Roosters in Year 12, opened the door to exciting opportunities.

She now trains every night of the week, not only for the Roosters but as a member of the NSW Women’s Waratahs squad. “I love everything about playing rugby. The travel, the team bonding, the games. We get fantastic press coverage and a lot of support.”

During the precious time she has off the field, Jada is studying primary education at university and working as

a Student Learning Support Officer at Maroubra Junction Public School. “It is so rewarding to be around the kids and see them do well.”

Jada’s future hopes include debuting for the NRLW and representing Australia in either code. “I am still a developing player and am very happy to be where I am.” Her advice to young aspiring players is to simply give it a go. “Get involved in any way you can. Acquire skills that are transferrable between sports. Get seen. Get picked. If I hadn’t got involved to see where it would take me, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

“We

really leaned on each other in the Boarding House – we became so close and COVID-19 brought us closer.”

“Don’t ever underestimate the desire of others to help - they want to pay it forward - they were once in the very same position you are.”

Hollywood Calling

After graduating from one of the most sought-after acting schools in the world, Ms Lucy Freyer’s hit the big time.

Ms Lucy Freyer (2013) loves drama. Not the over-the-top emotional kind, but rather the theatrical, ‘lights, camera, action’ style. Towards the end of Year 12, she commented to Wenona’s Head of Drama, Ms Tiffany Crittle, that she was going to miss it. Ms Crittle’s response? “Why would you stop?”

Fast-forward nearly a decade and Lucy has just starred in her first independent film, Paint, opposite none other than Hollywood star, Owen Wilson. “I had just graduated from drama school. I got an audition, made a tape and loved the idea of the film. I had decided just to let it go and not obsess about it, when I got a call back from the Director, Brit McAdams. I was so excited when I got the call from my team

School in New York since I was 12 years old. When I was in Year 8, I looked up the audition requirements and put them on my bedroom wall. Drama was everything to me – my world revolved around it.”

After a month of preparation, Lucy travelled to upstate New York where the movie was filmed. “On my very first day on a professional movie set, it was just Owen Wilson … and me. He is the most wonderful man. He knew everyone’s name. He made me feel like I knew more about acting than he did, as I had gone to drama school and he hadn’t. My imposter syndrome disappeared immediately. There were only seven people in the cast as it was an ensemble piece – everyone was very welcoming and kind.”

Bright, happy and infectiously effervescent, Lucy has always had her end goal in sight. “I had wanted to go to the Juilliard

In January 2014, aged just 17, Lucy headed to the bright lights of New York, gaining a place at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. After completing her course in 2016, the unthinkable happened. She was selected to attend the Juilliard School. “It was unbelievable. I had had this goal for so long. It seemed impossible – it is the number one drama school in the world. There are so many talented people who don’t get in.” Lucy’s talent and achievements are not to be underestimated. 3,000 people auditioned for a place. Fifty were called back to spend the weekend at the school. Just nine were then selected for the Bachelor of Fine Arts undergraduate degree and nine for the master’s program.

Amongst the many highlights during Lucy’s four years at Juilliard, one stands out. “Our acting teacher was leaving for three months to perform in a play and told us a replacement teacher would take the class. We walked into the room to find that the teacher was Daniel Day-Lewis. He was such a huge force on-screen, but was so humble and eager to learn from us. He was interested and does everything so fully.”

With Paint now in post-production, Lucy is getting ready to

make her off-Broadway debut with Roundabout theatre in February in a play called The Wanderers. She has also acted in a pilot opposite Aubrey Plaza, Olga Dies Dreaming, based on the novel by Xochitl Gonzalez. As auditions are often called at short notice, Lucy frequently finds herself on the move. “My best friend from Wenona is coming to stay with me next week, but I may have to fly to Atlanta. I might take her with me!”

Lucy describes her dream as “working in anything with a great cast who I can learn from, and one day acting in a play I have written myself.”

In a career where knock backs are common, Lucy has her own strategy for building resilience. “You hear ‘no’ so many times – and often it is for things you can’t control such as your voice is too high or you are not tall enough. You need to have a thick skin to be able to drive yourself forward. I tell myself that I got close, that it is not that I am not good enough, and that the next one might be different.”

Having already navigated many highs and lows to get where she is today, Lucy reflects on the journey and her guidance for up-and-coming students. “Immerse yourself in drama –go and see productions, read plays, learn about the drama schools and their differences. Ask for help and advice. Don’t ever underestimate the desire of others to help – they want to pay it forward – they were once in the very same position you are.”

“Focus on your skills rather than your experience. Go and see what is out there.”

Regulating Big Tech

and human rights and she revels in her dynamic role. “It is amazing that the last two companies I worked for did not exist when I was at university. My job didn’t exist. Technology regulation and the rules that govern the internet are a very nascent but exciting area impacting us all and setting precedents for future generations.”

For Kate, there is no such thing as an average day. “Everything depends on what is happening in the world at that moment. I have worked on political coups through to terror attacks and everything in between. These are the issues people are discussing now on our platforms. There is no precedent for what we deal with – it is all so new and we need to be ahead of the trends.”

Kate Hayes (McLennan, 2002) spends her working week in the global fast lane of the vast and pioneering frontier of technology regulation, where every day is different from the last.

After roles with food security company Syngenta and Twitter, Kate is now with Meta as Policy Communications Manager at Facebook and Instagram, covering more than 40 countries in the Asia Pacific. Her focus is content, safety

With her warm and sunny outlook, confidence and humour, Kate takes it all in her stride, giving the impression that there is nothing she could not conquer. She credits Wenona with opening her eyes to possibilities and opportunities. Pondering advice for students considering a career in this ever-changing technological landscape, Kate says, “Don’t limit yourself by thinking you need a technology background – I knew nothing. This is a brand new sector and people need to go into it open-minded and forward-thinking. Focus on your skills rather than your experience. Go and see what is out there.”

Kate spent her two senior years at School as a Wenona boarder, having moved from the northern NSW town of Wauchope. “My mum Susan (Hutchinson, 1962) used to

threaten me with boarding school if I didn’t clean my room. One day, I said to her, ‘Ok, I will go!’ She and my aunt Anne (Hutchinson, 1953) had talked about Wenona my whole life, so it felt a bit like I was like going home.”

Forming very close friendships with her boarding friends, Kate loved being a part of the Wenona community. “My bridesmaid Brodie Johnson (Murray, 2002) was a boarder whom I met on my very first day of School.”

After completing her Public Relations degree at Charles Sturt University, Kate went into an agency and worked for a diverse range of clients. “One was a medical device company. I stood next to a neurosurgeon performing an operation on a patient with Parkinson’s Disease. After implanting a small wire, her hand ceased shaking immediately. It was incredible.”

In 2010, she accepted a role in Singapore, planning to be there for two years. ‘Thirteen years, a husband and two daughters later, I’m still here! We have travelled the world – Asia, Europe and the USA. Thirteen years ago, I am embarrassed to say I couldn’t have pinned some of the cities I have visited on a map! I have also been lucky to meet up with my boarding family in my travels, such as Zoe Cuthbert (2002) in Hong Kong and Gale Ruttunaphon (2002) in Bangkok. That’s the special thing about boarding, you have a bond that means it doesn’t matter how many years it has been, you catch up where you left off.”

Mother Courage

Mrs Sarah Salmon (1993, Dawkins ) has turned her battle with the adoption bureaucracy in Cambodia, India and Australia into a heartwarming memoir for the sake of her daughters Sophea (Year 9) and Jasmine (Year 7) and other families walking the same path.

“A child born to another woman calls me mommy. The magnitude of that tragedy and the depth of that privilege are not lost on me.” – Joy Landers. So begins The Red Thread, An Adoption Memoir, the very honest book Mrs Sarah Salmon released in July, to tell the story of her and her husband Ben’s quest to adopt two daughters from Cambodia, while living as expats in Bangalore, India.

Sarah’s international-mindedness began as a Year 10 student when she travelled to Germany for two and a half months to live with a host family and develop her language skills. “I wasn’t even that keen on German, but I chose it as an elective because I loved Frau Richardson!” she says.

By age 25, the travel bug was firmly installed, and Sarah seized the chance to follow her then-boyfriend Ben to Seoul, South Korea. What ensued was 15 years of life in Asia, including India, where Ben set up a property development company - a significant adjustment at the best of times. But in Sarah’s case, the challenges were exacerbated by her struggle to conceive. Unwilling to pursue uncertain fertility treatments when there are so many children in need of a safe and loving family, Sarah and Ben decided to adopt.

Sarah describes the arrival of their first daughter Sophea from Cambodia as a fairytale, despite the red tape involved. But by the time they had found a Cambodian sister for Sophea, the rules and issues surrounding international adoption had changed and the thick layers of bureaucracy across Cambodia, India and Australia threatened to halt their plans.

For months, Jasmine was stuck in a shambling, unhygienic orphanage without access to adequate food or medical treatment, while Sarah and Ben refused to give up their battle to have her released into their care. The title of The Red Thread comes from the Buddhist string bracelet Jasmine had around her wrist when she, Sarah and Ben first met. A monk later tied versions of the same bracelet around their own wrists as a symbol of good luck, courage and bravery. The red threads came to represent the hope and unity of the soon-to-be family of four, during the extended fight to bring Jasmine

The Salmons have now been back in Australia for 6 years and Sophea and Jasmine are well-established members

of the Wenona student community, with rich social and extracurricular lives. They return to Cambodia regularly, are learning to speak Khmer, and the Salmons celebrate all the Cambodian holidays and cultural celebrations.

Sarah remains a passionate supporter of all those who seek to provide loving, stable homes for overseas children without safe families of their own. And her heart breaks for those parents and children who never get to become a family, due to the increasingly rigid rules and regulations. “Deborra-Lee Furness, (the founder of Adopt Change and on the Board of Orphans Worldwide Australia) has done a wonderful job in this space, but it remains the case that many children whose lives could be saved by inter-country adoption still languish in orphanages.”

In advocating for inter-racial adoption, Sarah has written opinion pieces for the Nine and Murdoch press, receiving her fair share of criticism online. But she says she will never back away from opportunities to spread understanding about the benefits of international adoption for both children and parents, as she and Ben watch the lives of their beloved Sophea and Jasmine continue to happily unfold.

The Red Thread: An Adoption Memoir is available from most online booksellers in Australia.

“Sarah remains a passionate supporter of all those who seek to provide loving, stable homes for overseas children without safe families of their own.”

“The USA just draws you in – it is such a diverse experience.”

USA With Love

Maddy has been dreaming of studying in the USA since she was a Year 7 student at Wenona. She toured Harvard, Princeton and Yale universities before deciding on a double major in Political and Computer Sciences and a minor in Finance, at Duke University in North Carolina.

Founded in 1838, Duke accepts only six per cent of applicants and is ranked among the top universities in the United States. “There are 700 high school valedictorians in our freshman year,” Maddy says. “They are all very smart and excel in different areas. Doubts did creep in, but I tried not to put too much pressure on myself.”

“One thing that attracted me to Duke is that you are not locked into a degree. As long as you fulfil the requirements of your majors, you can choose the subjects you enjoy, whether that be Chemistry, a language, or a writing class. It also has a one-in-four student-to-faculty ratio, with small classes of just 15 students and a work-hard, play-hard attitude, which suits my personality!”

Although it was hard to leave her family, Maddy is enthusiastic about the next four years at Duke. “The college spirit is absolutely incredible – students are passionate about sport and representing their university. A personalised jersey was part of our welcome pack – we have to wear it to all games. Duke is well known for basketball and you can see the players walking around the campus. They are all over seven feet tall!” Maddy has her own rich sporting experiences ahead – she has already signed up for field hockey, swimming and intercollege soccer.

Embraced as an Australian, she enjoys an advantage in a very USA-centric International Relations class – a different point of view. “I have fit in well here. Everyone is very welcomingalthough, they hadn’t heard the word ‘bubbler’!”

Exhilaration is bubbling in Ms Maddy Ingham’s voice as she describes her early impressions of American university life. “I have just had my first class and I am so excited to be here. The beautiful Gothic sandstone architecture is like something from Hogwarts!”

Graduating from Wenona in 2021, Maddy credits her Economics and Geography classes at School with piquing her interest in political science. “I was given so many opportunities at Wenona – I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. I made some wonderful friends and had amazing teachers, some of whom helped me with my applications to American universities.”

It is still early days, but Maddy is considering postgraduate study in America. “I am interested in cyber security. Looking at current world events, defensive and offensive strategies come down to cyber security. We are progressing from physical violence to attacking computer systems. I have many options to consider. The USA just draws you in – it is such a diverse experience; I have met all sorts of people from different backgrounds. I love it here.”

A passion for American culture and the booming technology field has lured Ms Maddy Ingham (2021) to one of the USA’s finest universities.

“Hopefully, more girls will consider international study.”

A World Away

“I wanted to really push myself, to go where I didn’t know anyone and meet new people and study in an institution rich with academic history,” she says. Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews often ranks first or second on The Times newspaper’s university league table. It attracts a diverse population from more than 130 countries, another source of its appeal for Daisy. “No one knew anyone – they were all in the same situation as me.”

At School, Daisy was an exceptional humanities student, gaining a place on the HSC Honour Roll for four-unit English. Now enrolled in St Andrews’ Master of Arts degree, she is majoring in International Relations and Philosophy, with politics and current affairs as her primary focus.

For Ms Daisy Keeble (2020), the cobblestone streets of the ancient town of St Andrews, echoing centuries of Scottish history, are worlds away from the gates of Wenona.

Always keen to challenge herself, Daisy embarked on the biggest adventure of her life so far when she enrolled at the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world – the University of St Andrews, Scotland.

The application process was rigorous, with much reliance placed on the personal statement in the absence of interviews. “I wrote draft after draft - with much support from my teachers,” she says.

Daisy departed Sydney in 2021 during the lockdown. Now, almost a year and a half later, she is feeling very much at home. “The halls are really beautiful old buildings. The town is small but has everything we need … and of course, St Andrews is where Prince William and Kate Middleton studied and met. There is even a café in town bearing a sign that they went there for coffee!”

The town of St Andrews is also known as the ‘home of golf’ and enthusiasm for the sport has taken hold in Daisy too. She plans to start lessons soon and move off campus and into town.

In August this year, the long northern hemisphere summer holidays provided her with the chance to return home to see family and friends. One highlight of her trip was visiting Wenona. “It was wonderful to be back. I talked to the Year 12s about my course, showed them photos and discussed the application process. Hopefully, more girls will consider international study.”

With respect to her own future, Daisy is considering all options. “I will have the chance to specialise in my final year, which I am contemplating. I would love to go into political consulting of some description. I may even end up in the United States. I plan to take advantage of every opportunity and have absolutely no regrets.”

“Just get in and go. It is so much better to give yourself options to study overseas than wonder what could have been”.

Well-Rounded

do it all the more! I really wanted to try for it and the Wenona Careers Department was so helpful.”

When her brother gave her a tour of Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, she felt an immediate pull. “I loved the beauty of the university and the campus atmosphere – added to the fact that it is a great school in a major city.” Other family members were also living in the USA and her parents were excited to visit, so the decision to apply to SMU was made.

According to Carlyle, the American and Australian university application processes are starkly different. “Applying to university in the USA is intensive, difficult and way more rigorous than at home. Many universities require standard testing – I was very lucky they accepted my ATAR, and I could avoid it.”

Ms Carlyle Bellotti (2021) is taking the broadest of approaches to her subject selection and extracurricular activities, as she learns about herself and the world in the Lone Star State.

With her brother already installed at New York University, Ms Carlyle Bellotti was determined not to let the pandemic impact her long-held plans to follow suit and study in the USA. “COVID-19 did result in some second-guessing,” she says. “But not being allowed to do something makes you want to

Subject selection for degrees differs too. “In the USA they have a well-rounded education system, offering the freedom to try new things – which is why I wanted to come. While I am undecided on my major, I am studying the required subjects for an Economics degree. I am considering focusing on fashion or media – it is nice to experiment with different schools, which is much more difficult to do in Australia. I have taken Introduction to Architecture which I am enjoying, as well as International Relations. There are countless options.”

Immersing herself in the colourful spirit synonymous with American college life, Carlyle is looking forward to her first

football game. “It is an all-day event. There are tents along the boulevard, and everyone gathers to socialise. The teams each have live animal mascots – one has a buffalo and mine brings an actual pony to the games!”

Another appealing feature of life in Texas for Carlyle is its world-renowned ranches, equestrian centres and stables. During her Wenona years, she was a member of the School’s Equestrian Team and competed all over Australia. “Texas is a big horse-riding state, and I would love to compete here –their equestrian facilities are just amazing,” she says.

As for life after university, it is still early days. Carlyle is considering staying in the USA and possibly moving to New York. “SMU provides much assistance in applying for jobs and gaining interviews – they have widespread business connections.”

Carlyle’s advice for Wenonians contemplating international study is to go for it. “Apply everywhere – just get in and go. It is so much better to give yourself options to study overseas than wonder what could have been.”

“I have wanted to do this for so long. It was daunting as it got closer, but I know it will be a wonderful experience.”

Latin America Dreaming

Mexico and really made the subject come alive.” She placed an impressive fifth in NSW for HSC Spanish Extension, which cemented her desire to pursue a languages degree.

“I am studying a Bachelor of Portuguese and Spanish,” says Hannah, “I have loved learning languages from an early age. I love being able to communicate with people, hear their stories and learn about how they live their lives.”

which I much prefer to larger cities such as London.” The University was founded in 1583 and boasts a distinguished list of notable alumni, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who created his famous character Sherlock Holmes whilst studying there. It is home to Britain’s oldest literary awards as well as Dolly the sheep, the first animal to be cloned. “The campus is scattered around the city, with different buildings throughout,” says Hannah.

Ms Hannah Rodrigues (2021) has taken a surprising detour to the sandstone-lined streets of Edinburgh, in her pursuit of an exciting life in Latin America.

The colour and romance of Latin American languages and culture have inspired Ms Hannah Rodrigues’ imagination from a young age. When she began learning Spanish at Wenona, she formed an immediate connection. “My teachers ignited my interest – they were from Venezuela, Colombia and

When applying to universities, a key component of the course for Hannah needed to be immersion. “Domestic universities do not offer the opportunity for immersion in Latin American countries, nor the ability to study Portuguese. In the United Kingdom, there is a specific focus on all arts subjects, and you are able to spend time abroad studying your chosen languages. In my third year, I am hoping to spend six months in Portugal and the remainder of the year in Spain.” Hannah has just started learning Portuguese, appreciating the subtle nuances between the two languages.

She applied to five different universities in the United Kingdom and was accepted to them all. Settling on the University of Edinburgh, she departed Sydney in April to spend time with her English relatives and to travel before her degree commenced in September. “I visited both Spain and Portugal to practise the languages and absorb the cultures of those countries. This is where my passion lies.”

“I had visited Edinburgh previously and fallen in love with the city. It is beautiful - small and with a tight-knit community

Studying a varied selection of Arts subjects such as languages, history, politics, literature, film, society and culture, Hannah will also have the opportunity to study Catalan, which is spoken in Barcelona. “I love the program here at the University of Edinburgh - it is very varied and reflects the university’s academic prestige.”

After completing her four-year degree, Hannah plans to pursue her dream of living in Latin America, considering Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Peru. “I love the idea of sharing people’s stories with the English-speaking world through traditional and modern media, podcasts and social media. The indigenous affairs of Latin America are very similar to the Australian situation in terms of assimilation and the relationships between indigenous and non-indigenous people.”

Even through COVID-19 lockdowns, border closures and doubts about living so far from her family, Hannah is thankful she is able to pursue her dream. “I have wanted to do this for so long. It was daunting as it got closer, but I know it will be a wonderful experience.”

Circle of Service

Mrs Marie Soghomonian’s immense contribution to the School began when she was enrolled as a Year 8 student in 1988. Stepping down from the role of Chair of the Wenona Foundation this year, she wants to highlight the ways Wenona empowered her to make a change in the world and sparked an invigorating career pivot.

A typical day for Mrs Marie Soghomonian involves the wearing of many hats as she juggles demanding executive roles in the diverse areas of the arts, international aid, the empowerment of teenage girls, and crisis support.

An in-demand business and not-for-profit consultant with a double master’s in Management and Not-For-Profit and Social Enterprise Management, Marie says she is thrilled with the direction that life is taking her. “It began for me as a student listening to then Principal Barbara Jackson in Assembly,” Marie says now. “I will never forget the impression she made on me in my graduating year when she told us, ‘Year 12, just know when you leave you can do anything, be anything - don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!’” Marie says. “It was such an important message back in 1992, and it had a huge influence on us all. I was lucky because my own family were equally encouraging, including my father, who was a successful entrepreneur and believed very strongly in the importance of girls’ education.”

After completing a business hospitality degree, Marie began crafting a career in her family business. The enrolment of her first daughter Sarine at Wenona in Year 3, 2008, was the prompt for Marie to throw herself into the School’s rich community life and bring her hospitality and events expertise and flair for nurturing

and connecting people, to bear on roles in the Wenona Alumnae Association and the Wenona Parents’ Association.

“I was driven to enrich my girls’ educational experience and make them feel part of a strong, cohesive community. Georgia (2021) is currently completing a double degree in Law and Communications (Social and Political Science) at the University of Technology Sydney and giving back to the School as a Basketball coach. Sarine (2017) is completing post-graduate study in Public Policy and Governance at the University of New South Wales and working as an advisor to the NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, the Hon. Mark Coure MP. But I also wanted to give back to this amazing School,” Marie says. “Becoming Alumnae Association President represented the chance to provide a Wenona education to girls who otherwise would not have that opportunity. The Alumnae Association Scholarship Fund became a driving passion - I wanted as many girls as possible to experience what my daughters and I have had.”

Marie also initiated the now-famous Women of Spirit Breakfasts, which attract 230 guests to the Luna Park Crystal Ballroom for an impressive line-up of alumnae speakers. “My vision was to connect parents with the alumnae so they could witness the calibre of women the School produces and envision the

potential for their own daughters. I also wanted to give both parents and alumnae the chance to hear Dr Scott’s message of living a life of substance and the empowerment of women, which resonates so strongly. As a concept, it was a no-brainer, and have listened to the most amazing alumnae speakers over the years. I was also proud to have been part of the talented team that established the Alumnae Art Fair, another wonderful avenue to foster and promote alumnae talent.”

Following these achievements, Marie put up her hand to lead the capital appeal for the Wenona Master Plan in the last year of her Alumnae Association Presidency. “With the support of Dr Scott and the Board, I set off with a dedicated committee and discovered a passion for philanthropy and working with people who shared a commitment to supporting young women’s education. I took much pride in utilising my network, meeting new people, and taking them on the journey,” she says. “We were tasked to raise five million dollars, and I am filled with gratitude that my daughters and their own children can now visit the School, see the Athenaeum and know their mother played a role.”

In fact, Marie felt so at home in philanthropy work that she decided to explore making it her life’s focus. Returning to university, she completed two related master’s degrees in three years to professionalise what she had learned. “It was Wenona that nurtured my love of community and the not-for-profit sector, while opening my eyes to further rewarding opportunities.”

Now Marie is a Director on the Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury

Sydney Board and chairs both their Gala and Fundraising, Marketing and Media Committees. She is also the Chair of the Sister2Sister Foundation, an organisation that empowers vulnerable teenage girls and the Executive Director of AusDance NSW - the state’s peak dance body.

But the organisation closest to her heart is the charity she founded herself - the Armenian Children’s Fund Australia, which supports preschool-aged children and their mothers in the village of Noyemberyan, in a volatile region bordering Azerbaijan. “The Fund is self-sustaining now, which is in part due to the wonderful work of the Wenona community and in particular, the members of School House and the amazing Dr Dianne Langan, who raise money every year,” Marie says. “They have enabled us to renovate classrooms and provide beds, educational materials, and stationery. They have also helped ensure the children have three hot meals a day, without which their diets would be very poor. Their 2022 donation is helping to rewire the preschool building so that every room will be heated against the minus 20-degree cold.

It makes me emotional to think about the support so many people have provided over the years and the generational impact that is being achieved,” she says.

“I am incredibly proud of what I have achieved in my 11 years on the Wenona Foundation Board and equally excited to see the next stage of philanthropic growth at the School.”

“I wanted as many girls as possible to to experience what my daughters

OUR COMMUNITY

Thread by Thread

The Archives Department is the keeper of Wenona’s stories, threading together our past, and bringing it to life for the entire school community including past alumnae, present families and future students.

Like most schools, Wenona has experienced periods when records and photos were barely preserved, so filling in the gaps can take some sleuthing. But long-time volunteer Mrs Jane Howland (Ferguson 1963) relishes the painstaking task.

Over the past five years, she has been putting to work her rare love of both history and data entry, researching student cards and trying to figure out the peer years and relationship ties of alumnae who graduated long ago.

The threads of Jane’s own Wenona history are intricate, with her sister and several cousins all having attended the School and a close friendship with Wenona’s former archivist Michele Ginswick, also fuelling her passion to uncover and protect the archive’s secrets.

So far she has worked her way from Z through H, keying in girls’ names, years attending and researching their relations, leaving certificates, and announcements from back issues of The Wenonian magazine.

The project gained speed this year with the arrival of Wenona’s first professionally trained archivist Dr Elizabeth Hartnell. Hailing from the United States, Dr Hartnell has a background

in history, anthropology and archaeology. During her dozen years in Australia, she has built up experience as the curator at the Unley Museum in South Australia, and as a local historian for the Woollahra Council.

Dr Hartnell’s focus is not only to develop the Wenona collection but make it accessible to all, through digital means. But she needs your help. Anyone interested in joining Dr Hartnell and Jane as part of a 2023 team of volunteers to shift the School’s historical data into the 21st century, is asked to email archives@wenona.nsw.edu.au.

The School would also be grateful if you would consider donating any Wenona treasures that you might have at home.

“We know there must be hundreds of items stored in boxes, suitcases, and photo albums across the country and even overseas,” Dr Hartnell says.

Jane concurs: “Don’t throw them away and don’t wait for someone else to do it. Give them to us and we will make sure generations of Wenonians can look back on their days roaming the School halls.”

Four Peas in a Pod

Smart, spirited, and sporty, the first Walsh sisters attended Wenona more than 100 years ago and their legacy endures, with a great-granddaughter now enrolled at the School.

The Wenona archives paint a rich picture of the four Walsh sisters Lorna (1927), Marie (1929), Sheila (1931) and Barbara (1936). Strong in talent and personality, The Wenonian: 1929-1937, describes them as ‘four peas in a pod’ (a moniker coined by then-Principal Miss Edith Ralston), and their exploits feature in a range of letters, reports, and publications.

Lorna and Marie were enrolled at Wenona back in 1919, when the School was housed in the modest environs of St Thomas’ Church Hall. Described as very competitive, all four sisters excelled at sport and academics.

Lorna was best known for captaining the A Tennis Team in 1926 and winning the Sports Cup the same year.

Marie was Sports Captain and received several academic awards including the Physical Culture Prize and the Missionary Society Prize.

Sheila was not only represented Wenona at the Tildesley Shield TennisTournament, but had a poem published in the School magazine, achieved 100% in her Latin exam, and had fun winning the egg and spoon race in 1925.

Barbara was perhaps the most spirited of all, participating in the Tildesley Shield, the All-Schools Swimming

Carnival, and in 1934, winning the Junior Challand Cup. She is particularly remembered for convincing her teachers that her middle names were Una Matilda, making her initials BUM!

The Walsh sisters made lifelong friends at Wenona. According to their descendants, each looked back on their School days with great fondness and expressed love for their Principal Miss Ralston.

More than a century after Lorna commenced at Wenona, her great-granddaughter, Hannah Bayliss, is just finishing Year 7. Four of Barbara’s great-grandchildren are also hoping to attend the School in the coming years … continuing the

From Little Things Big Things Grow

In 1950, record rains turned Walker Street into a river, we triumphed in the doubles at the Tildesley Shield Tennis Tournament, and a young Joan Brown (Axtens, 1952) made an anticipation-filled trip from country Temora to begin life as a Wenona boarder.

“I was the eldest of four children at that time, from a country area where the syllabus was very different, so I didn’t know what to expect. One of my first and starkest memories is of trying on the uniforms,” she says, looking back.

In the 1950s, the boarding students wore four uniforms – a pink uniform for dinner, a white dress worn with gloves, hats and stockings for church, a School uniform and a navy sports uniform with a white stripe. “There were strict rules about how to fold each item, including a special way to fold your socks, and drawer inspections. They must have made an impact because that is how I still fold my clothes today!” she says.

Every meal was eaten with Principal Miss Edith Ralston, who kept Joan and close friends Margaret Birch, Audrey Raymond and Phillipa Dunhill on their toes. “We couldn’t sit down until she arrived and she wouldn’t allow us to ask for condiments to be passed at the table. When sitting, our legs had to be crossed at the ankles and when walking upstairs, our feet were to point slightly sideways.”

While that sounds excessive in a modern context, Joan looks back on Miss Ralston’s firmness with respect. “She ran a tight ship so I feared her, I suppose, but she also had a kindness about her. You knew you could go to her if you were really in trouble. Her goal was to give us British-style manners, and they

have served us. I heard my daughter correcting my grandson’s table manners the other day, something she picked up from me.”

Though there were periods of homesickness, Joan remembers outings to the Independent Theatre, the Spit Bridge baths and dances with the Shore boys. “I cherished the organza dress my mother made me for my first dance - it was white and embroidered - the most beautiful thing.”

Joan was a gifted musician who learned the violin with a private tutor and played in concerts at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and Shore School. “I was never one for sports – while the other girls were playing tennis or netball, I was in the cellar practising my violin!” Later, she would play for the Strathfield Orchestra under the conductorship of the late Richard Gill, who became one of Australia’s pre-eminent conductors.

Few career choices were available to young women of that era. After graduation, Joan settled on nursing, training at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and completing a year of obstetrics before starting her family of four children.

And there was mischief: “I used to have very long plaits and decided to ask one of the day girls to cut them off for me. My mother refused to write to me for weeks!”

Now her Wenona ties have come full circle, with granddaughters Dominique Brown (Year 9) and Bronte Brown (Year 7) both attending the School. Her cousin, Ketha Malcolm, graduated in 1958 and granddaughter Eloise, last year. “Wenona is unrecognisable now – it’s so big! Back in our day, one of the most memorable parts of the School was a locked wooden door accessed only by the caretaker with his wheelbarrow and gardening tools. There was a rumour that it led to a tunnel used by smugglers, and it was said the tunnel went all the way down to the harbour. I was always dying to know if that was true!”

Alumnae Recognise Amelie’s Work for Others

At just 17, Amelie Atkin (Year 11) has a substantial six-page CV. Almost every entry tells a story about her commitment to improve conditions for as many people as she can. It is a spirit of contribution that earned her the Alumnae Spirit Award at the 2022 Foundation Day, for services to the School and the external community. “My only regret is that I did not begin sooner,” Amelie says, with characteristic self-depreciation.

The Pride Alliance Club in Year 9, was her first experience of ‘beyond the classroom’ activities. “It opened my eyes to what I could achieve and the benefits of working towards a cause bigger than myself and snowballed from there. As I uncovered further personal interests and ways to help, I signed myself up to more and more.” Now for Amelie, it seems every waking moment is dedicated to a service activity or academic work, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Some of her contributions take the form of paid roles. She is employed by NSW Health on a three-year contract as a Youth Health Promotion consultant, organising and facilitating workshops and events and providing feedback for audits to healthcare agencies. As a One Girl Ambassador, Amelie coordinates fundraising efforts towards educational scholarships for young women in Uganda and Sierra Leone.

In 2021, Amelie initiated The Admissions Project, to advocate for increased preventative health care within the public system.

This involved researching and advocating against outdated admissions criteria for inpatient eating disorder treatment, which she says resulted in the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital changing its admissions criteria.

For the Butterfly Collective, she raises awareness for the struggles of people with eating disorders. Consulting for the organisation Eating Disorder Media, which is associated with the National Mental Health Commission, she also writes blogs and inspiring quotes based on her personal experiences. In addition, the NSW Ethics Centre Moral Courage Group benefits from Amelie’s ability to share her knowledge and personal experience through discussions surrounding mental health.

Within School, she has tutored girls in preparation for challenging Mathematics and Science competitions. As a member of the Upper School Advisory Team, she collaborated with teaching staff and students on projects to help build more cohesion in the Upper School. She also participated in the Mock Trial and Amnesty’s Write for Rights campaign, as well as being a member of the Wenona Production Crew.

Amelie has supported efforts to fight institutionalised racism, child hunger and climate change by fundraising through World Vision’s Walk the Talkathon and the 40-Hour Famine and helped organise climate marches of up to 10,000 people. Volunteering for Our Big Kitchen Bondi and writing letters to the

elderly in nursing homes, to help “solve inequalities in society with small actions,” are further examples of her service efforts.

But perhaps the cause still dearest to her heart is the Pride Alliance Club, for which Amelie now serves as President. “I love organising engaging workshops on topics relevant to LGBTQ+ and finding ways to cater to and support the needs of students across year groups and social backgrounds,” she says.

Alongside her many academic and co-curricular School awards, Mimi has a new achievement. During the northern hemispere summer, she studied Psychology at Oxford University through their Summer in Oxford Program. It is another highlight on her CV to support her journey towards working in the mental health sphere.

According to Wenona Alumnae President Luisa Horton (Brown, 2005), Amelie’s is definitely a contribution worth celebrating. “She is a very worthy recipient of the 2022 Wenona Alumnae Spirit Award. On behalf of the Wenona Alumnae Association and everyone at Wenona, I’d like to congratulate her on her action to support young people both at Wenona and across Australia and her passion for raising awareness about important issues. Amelie sets a remarkable example to us all for making a positive difference in the world.”

Wenona Alumnae Association Scholarships

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP

Jemima Carmody (Year 11)

I am grateful to the dedicated alumnae who contributed to this scholarship and hope to do justice to those who have gone before me. In addition to my role as 2022-2023 Head Prefect, I am a public speaker and debater, a proud Company Commander in the Shore Cadet Unit, a drama enthusiast, Captain of the Environment and Amnesty Clubs, and leader of ‘W’, Wenona’s student magazine. Following graduation, I hope to combine my passion for writing, public speaking, science, and the environment. I am grateful that Wenona has empowered me to make a positive impact on the world.

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RUNNER-UP

Jessica McDonnell (Year 11)

This scholarship has allowed me to give back to my family after the COVID pandemic created so much uncertainty for their travel industry business. During my 12 years at Wenona, I have been lucky to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, with very fond memories of everything from the Woodstock Christmas play in Kindergarten to Year 2, varying school sports, musicals, Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, and so much more. Wenona has been an enormous part of my life, and I have benefitted from the dedicated support of many, many wonderful teachers.

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP RUNNER-UP

Ivy Wang (Year 11)

I am grateful for the variety of opportunities provided by the School. In particular, for my leadership experience as Community and Service Prefect and Fencing Captain –two great ways to give back and learn transferable and interpersonal skills. I have also been actively involved in Tennis and Basketball and have enjoyed my role as a Co-Captain of the Global Diversity Club. I completed my Service Learning in the Community hours, by helping with Junior School Creative Arts classes. My current interests are architecture and international relations, and I look forward to pursuing them after graduation.

During my nine years at Wenona, I have received extracurricular opportunities such as Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, and sport, which I never thought possible. These experiences enabled me to build my teamwork skills and pursue my dreams and goals under a valuable support structure. Wenona has helped me to grow into the person I am today, and I take great pride in being a Wenonian. I am extremely grateful to the alumnae who have come before me and provided me with this scholarship. It provides welcome support for my family, after everything they have done for me.

Receiving this scholarship has provided me with the opportunity to repay my family for their commitment to my Wenona education. Over the years, I have been involved in activities such as Touch Football, House Drama, Dance, Festival of Speech, Duke of Edinburgh, and the Amnesty International Club. Service activities have been another of my interests and I contributed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation Silver Party, and the Amnesty Sleepout. I am grateful Wenona has allowed me to explore my many varied and eclectic interests in fields as diverse as performing arts, creative writing, communications, and science.

As a proud member of the Wenona community, I strive to involve myself in as many areas of School life as possible. Through my election as a 2022-2023 School House Captain, I have engaged in activities from fundraising to debating. By fostering a sense of community within the House, I have got to know lots of girls from different year groups and incorporated their interests into House activities. As an enthusiastic member of the Environment Club, I have enjoyed collaborating with other students towards the common goal of raising awareness and improving our environment.

BARBARA JACKSON SCHOLARSHIP RUNNER-UP

BARBRA JACKSON SCHOLARSHIP RUNNER-UP

Sophie Grattan (Year 11)

Sophie Newham (Year 11)

BARBARA JACKSON SCHOLARSHIP

Sophie Moore (Year 11)

Alumnae Events

Students from the Class of 1960 met at Northbridge Golf Club for a 60th Reunion lunch which had been postponed twice due to COVID. Two former boarders travelled to Sydney, as well as one day girl from Perth, while others came from Regional NSW to join in the chatter and the compulsory recitation of the class roll. A professional potter among them made each a porcelain name tag in case their memories or eyesight were faulty and they all agreed to catch up again for their 65th anniversary in three years’ time.

The Class of 2002 enjoyed a fabulous turnout at the Firehouse in North Sydney for their 20 Year reunion, with some even flying in from interstate. Those who attended report that the room was filled with laughter, memories and the sound of life-long friends catching up on all that has happened in 20 years.

The Class of 1991 were “blown away by the School’s new buildings and facilities” during their tour, followed by a wonderful evening at The Greens. Some among them had travelled from Brisbane, Nyngan, Coffs Harbour, and Robertson. All enjoyed connecting again: “You would not think it was 31 years since we left School the way everyone just picked up where we left off!” they said.

The Class of 2017 came together at a local bistro near Miller Street to reconnect and reflect after five years out of School and importantly reminisce on their Wenona days. “Seeing the impressive and inspirational young women our classmates have become was rewarding, but certainly not surprising”

In May, around 30 alumnae from the Class of 2011 had a lively 10-year reunion, enjoying the chance to catch up with each other’s news, especially after the impact of COVID. They also explored the School’s newest buildings and facilities and learned about the programs and equipment that make Wenona what it is in 2022.

Also in May, more than 40 of our cherished Alumnae who left the School 40 or more years ago, joined us for lunch in the School Hall to celebrate the 2022 White and Blue Reunion. They listened to Dr Scott (herself an alumna from the Barbara Jackson years) reflect on the enduring qualities that characterise the School and the importance of wise women role models for the young people of today. They also heard from our new Archivist Dr Elizabeth Hartnell, who shared some of Wenona’s archival treasures and stories from Wenona’s past.

More than 100 Wenona mothers and daughters woke bright and early to connect with friends old and new over acai bowls and croissants, at our alumnae Mother-Daughter Breakfast on Wednesday 8 June. Among the crowd were students from Year 3 to Year 12, and a number of second-generation Wenona families.

Principal Dr Briony Scott inspired the group with a message about the enormous and important influence of mothers and grandmothers in the lives of girls and young women and the need for young people to have access to strong and wise female role models.

Wenona Alumnae Association Committee member Lucy Basten (Class of 1990) spoke of the ties that bind the Wenona community, and her joy in being a proud alumna with a daughter in Year 5. The smooth running of the event was in part due to the assistance of our very able Year 10 volunteers, who arrived at 7am to greet and guide guests and serve and clear food. The Breakfast was the first chance for many of the mothers to come on campus since the pandemic began, and they remarked on the beauty of new developments such as the West Commons space, where the Breakfast was held.

Spring Fever

Under clear blue skies, we welcomed one of the most anticipated days on the 2022 School calendar - the Wenona Spring Fair. Having waited three years, the crowds started pouring through the gates well before opening time, filling the grounds to near bursting for much of the day.

All our traditional attractions did a roaring trade, including Sideshow Alley, which was a hub of concentration, as younger patrons tried to outwit the laughing clowns, land their quoit on the spoke, or topple each other in an ‘It’s a Knockout!’ joust.

The fruit stall attracted long queues for its fresh, natural treats (and funny fruit hats), the bookstall featured some surprise literary gems, and visitors were in stitches over at the photo booth stand.

Glamorous prizes were up for grabs in the auction, including stays in tempting beach houses, gym memberships and even an exclusive lunch with Dr Scott and the Deputy Principals. The face painting proved a hit with the younger set and our external stall holders all reported high demand for their elegant artisanal items - hats and scarves, wrapping paper, tea, candles and flowers fresh from the markets. Talented Wenona musicians entertained the crowd throughout the day with polished renditions of popular songs.

Over in West Commons, our Enrolments Team hosted the inaugural Athenaeum Open House, which provided a taste of

Wenona life for future students and their families. The event included Science experiments and other academic displays, hot-out-of-the-oven treats from our Hospitality students and Sport and Performing Arts demonstrations. Many who dropped into The Athenaeum were current families who, due to COVID, had never visited the School before.

The stunning works for sale in the always beautiful Wenona Alumnae Art Show attracted strong crowds to the School Hall, with proceeds contributing to a Wenona bursary fund. Many visitors found them hard to resist, snapping up paintings, photographs, and sculptures to grace their homes.

All the while, our swimming community, staff and parents were downstairs lapping the Aquatic Centre Pool in the 12-Hr Mental Fitness Swim, raising money for the Black Dog Institute (pages 42 to 43).

Our thanks, in particular, to the WPA Spring Fair team and to all Wenona parents who contributed to making it one of the best Spring Fairs ever.

Wenona Parents’ Association

A Bumper Year

The WPA made up for lost time in 2022, with a huge array of gatherings to deepen their already strong bonds. In addition to large-scale events such as the Spring Cocktail Party each year group held vibrant get-togethers at inviting cafes and restaurants or cosy family homes.

Alongside their socialising were some mighty fundraising efforts. In addition to the much-loved Wenona Spring Fair, were events such as the Mother’s Day Classic Walk. It attracted more than 200 Wenona Walkers to don pink and complete a four-kilometre route around St Leonards Park, raising more than $6,000 for breast cancer research and winning the Largest School Team award for the fourth year in a row.

Getting Quizzical

The Wenona Parents’ Association organised two hugely successful trivia nights for the Junior and Secondary schools in Term 2, each attracting well over 200 guests. The amazing quiz master was Mr Garry O’Connor (father to Bronte from Year 9), who did an incredible job structuring questions into categories aligned with NESA subject areas and keeping everyone entertained all evening long. There were spot prizes for ‘Who am I’ challenges, as well as lucky door prizes. We even took a trip down memory lane with archival questions such as ‘How many women have served as Principal of Wenona?’. The winners received useful prizes and chocolates, and the losers got a wooden spoon.

Changing Lives Together

Wenona Parents Association President Ms Marnie Devereaux presented a cheque for $100,000 to Senior Deputy Principal Mr David Cook at the WPA Term 4 General Meeting in October. It was the result of their extensive fundraising over the course of the year, including a stunning Spring Fair. The donation will contribute to bursaries for deserving students who otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience all the benefits of a Wenona education. Mr Cook congratulated the WPA on their hard work in raising such a significant sum and expressed his sincere thanks on behalf of the School community, saying the donation would make a big difference to many families.

VALE

Wenona regrets to announce the passing of the following alumnae:

Mrs Helen Shannon (Lamb 1945) 11 October 2022

Ms Lisa Binney (1976) 14 June 2022

Mrs Janet Garnett (Jamieson 1950) 31 March 2022

Mrs Anne Morgan (Fenwick 1939) 11 January 2022

Mrs Patricia Berry (Dey 1944) 8 January 2022

Mrs Meila Hutchinson (1944) January 2022

Mrs Jennifer Mary Richards (Eldershaw 1953) 23 December 2021

Mrs Peggy May Bannon (Brown 1944) 12 December 2021

Mrs Michele Ell (Davies 1971) 4 November 2021

Ms Rachael Kirby-Faust (2009) 2 November 2021

Mrs Natalie Vogan (Weir 1946) 20 February 2020

Mrs Betty June Finlayson (Brown 1944) 13 August 2017