Wilderness Times #101

WINTER – SPRING 2025

ISSUE # 101

CONTENTS 5

Principal’s Thoughts

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The Coach House Opening

12 Faculty in Focus — Science 14 Oliphant Science Award 15 Year 12 Art Exhibition 16 Drama Highlights 18 Music Highlights 20 Sport Highlights 22 Parents and Friends Association 23 Old Scholars' Golf Day 24 Outdoor Education at Crawford 25 Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award 26 National Boarding Week 28 Pathways Learning 29 21st Century Challenges with Flinders University 30 Welcome Emma Searle 31 Cross-school Partnerships 32 Wilderness in Nepal 34 Recent Events 36 Strengthening our Future 38 Dr Louise Webster STEM Fellowship 40 Intergenerational Families 42 Reunions and Events 44 Wilderness Women Leading the Way 45 Announcements 46 In Memorium 47 Wilderness Playgroup in 2026

Discover the latest news and connect with our community. facebook.com/WildernessSchool linkedin.com/company/wilderness-school instagram.com/wildernessschool_sa Join the Wilderness Old Scholars’ Association page on Facebook to communicate, network and hear about upcoming alumni events. facebook.com/wildernessoldscholars

ABOUT THE COVER The cover image captures a special moment from the Coach House Opening on the first day of Term 3.

Our Year 11 students met the Reception to Year 2 girls in the Upper Junior School and walked with them through the grounds towards their beautiful new learning spaces in the Coach House.

This symbolic walk marked the beginning of a new chapter for our Lower Junior School. Parents, students and staff gathered along the path, sharing in the excitement as the girls caught their first glimpse of the finished Coach House. Months of preparation by Sarah Constructions and dedicated teachers and staff members had transformed the building into a warm and welcoming environment, ready for the girls to make it their own.

As our senior students guided the youngest members of our community, the path through Wilderness became a reminder that every girl walks her journey supported, connected and part of something greater.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

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PRINCIPAL’S THOUGHTS A Journey Shaped by Continuity At the end of the school year, it is natural to reflect on the progress our girls have made while looking ahead to the opportunities of the year to come. There has been much to celebrate across the School this year. For our Year 12s, recent weeks have marked the close of their secondary education and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. For our younger girls, the end of term brings a welcome pause. I hope the Christmas period brings everyone in our community some time to rest and enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

One of Wilderness School’s greatest strengths is the continuity that comes from an entire educational pathway on one campus, from the Early Learning Centre through to Year 12. This is a rare gift. Our youngest learners share the same grounds as those preparing to graduate.

Their daily experiences may differ, but they move through familiar spaces, interact with girls across year levels and develop a strong sense of stability and confidence through the shared life of the School.

Throughout the year, many moments have shown how this continuity supports each girl on her journey. On the first morning of Term 3, our Reception to Year 2 girls were accompanied by Year 11 students as they walked to the beautiful new Coach House. Hand in hand, girls nearing the end of their school journey supported those just beginning theirs. It was a simple and powerful expression of our culture, with older students guiding younger ones and modelling what it means to care for others.

Relationships across year levels continue to develop in meaningful ways. This year, our Carob Year 12s formed friendships with Reception girls by reading with them most Fridays. The joy these sessions bring reflects the kindness and leadership we hope to nurture in all our girls. Our leadership traditions also reinforce this spirit. The SRC changeover ceremony, where flowers are passed from outgoing to incoming leaders, symbolises stewardship and connection across cohorts. The Walk of Honour, where Year 12s travel through the grounds for the final time, marks the culmination of their school journey.

The handmade gifts and warm embraces they receive remind them of the lasting relationships they have formed throughout their time at Wilderness.

Our staff also play a vital role in sustaining the culture that underpins this continuity.

Many have accompanied generations of girls, ensuring that our values remain strong and consistent. The Staff Leadership Collective, guided by Heather De Blasio, has continued to strengthen leadership capability through thoughtful conversations about culture, change and responsibility. This work supports our staff as they guide the girls each day.

The partnership between the School and our families is another essential part of each girl’s experience. Initiatives such as Pave the Way, the Margaret Brown Artwork campaign and community fundraising reflect a shared commitment to the future of Wilderness. The Parents and Friends Association and the Old Scholars’ Association also provide invaluable support and connection. I am deeply grateful to all families for the encouragement and care they have shown the girls this year, and for the many partnerships that strengthen our community.

At this time of year, we look forward to celebrating our exceptional academic results.

However, these accomplishments sit alongside something even more important.

The true value of a Wilderness education is found not only in what the girls achieve but in who they become.

It is reflected in the relationships they form, the resilience they build, the leadership they show and the confidence with which they move into the world. As you read this edition of Wilderness Times, I hope you see the many ways we are nurturing each girl’s creativity and compassion, so she is equipped to step into the world with confidence and a sense of purpose.

Belinda Arnfield Principal

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

THE COACH HOUSE OPENING The Coach House represents a gentle and joyful beginning to school life at Wilderness.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

When our Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 girls stepped into the Coach House for the first time on the first day of Term 3, it marked the realisation of a vision many years in the making. Thoughtfully conceived, carefully crafted and deeply connected to our Early Learning Centre philosophy, the Coach House represents a gentle, seamless and joyful beginning to school life at Wilderness.

A vision grounded in belonging and purpose From the outset, the vision for the Coach House was clear: to create a space that nurtures a strong sense of belonging and connection while supporting high-quality, focused learning for our youngest girls. We wanted a place that felt like a natural extension of the Early Learning Centre, honouring the belief central to the Reggio Emilia philosophy that environment is the “third teacher”.

In reimagining the ELC and designing the Coach House, our architects, educators and leaders worked collaboratively over several years to ensure these principles were deeply embedded. The process began in 2019 and was reshaped by COVID delays, ultimately strengthening relationships with our architects at Grieve Gillett. This collaborative relationship enabled shared insight, mutual understanding and a design that truly reflects the needs of early learners.

The finished building feels warm, calm and welcoming. Its home-like quality invites children to settle quickly, while its thoughtful layout supports the rhythms of early learning.

A bridge between ELC and Junior School The Coach House sits at the heart of campus both physically and philosophically. For our five-year-old girls, it offers a gentle transition from the play-rich ELC to the more structured routines of the Junior School.

Light-filled classrooms, shared gallery spaces on each floor and flexible breakout areas encourage curiosity, collaboration and creativity. Our girls are encouraged to explore ideas, build relationships and seek support—not only from their teachers but also from co-educators and, when needed, the allied health professionals who form part of our broader learning team. In our dedicated Allied Health space, this support can be seamlessly integrated into a girl’s school day in a familiar and nurturing environment.

Glass walls, open spaces and easy flow between classrooms allow like-minded learners to find one another while still feeling anchored in a strong class community.

Every element has been intentionally designed to foster independence, confidence and connection.

The location of the Coach House adjacent to the newly redeveloped Margaret Brown House is also a wonderful example of the continuity of learning that Wilderness provides. Our youngest girls can look out of the large windows at our senior girls as they prepare for their future in our entrepreneurial and future-focused hub.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

The finished building feels warm, calm and welcoming.

Its home-like quality invites children to settle quickly, while its thoughtful layout supports the rhythms of early learning.

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A home for adventurous learning One of the most anticipated additions to the Coach House is the Maker’s Space, a flexible STEM learning environment tailored specifically for early learners. Here, our girls are invited to imagine, test and refine their ideas by engaging in design thinking, prototype building and introductory technologies including robotics.

The space supports the Design and Digital Technologies curriculum while nurturing critical and creative thinking from the earliest years.

Just beyond the building, the beautifully designed nature play space brings the outdoors into the learning experience. With a sandpit, mud laboratory, cubby house, monkey bars, water pump and climbing equipment, the area encourages unstructured play that engages the senses and strengthens physical development.

Every plant, path and play element has been chosen to support movement, imagination and adventurous learning.

The Coach House blurs the boundary between indoors and outdoors with abundant natural light and windows that draw the landscape into the learning environment. Children move freely between spaces, supported and encouraged in their curiosity by nature.

A community effort The opening of the Coach House was made possible through the dedication of many.

Special thanks go to Paula Jolly, Belinda Arnfield, Liz McCarthy, Rebecca Williamson, our Reception to Year 2 teachers and coeducators, our Maintenance Team, the architects at Grieve Gillett and the team at Sarah Constructions. Their shared commitment, patience and expertise ensured that every detail aligned with our purpose.

A foundation for confident, courageous learners With its warm, home-like feel and thoughtfully designed learning environments, the Coach House provides the perfect foundation for our youngest girls. It is a place where imagination is celebrated, friendships are formed and a lifelong love of learning begins to blossom.

We are proud to offer a place where every girl can begin her Wilderness journey with confidence, curiosity and joy.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

FACULTY IN FOCUS

SCIENCE Young people are innately curious about the world. It is the mission of the Wilderness Science Department to harness and nurture this curiosity. We want every lesson to be an adventure that builds a thirst for learning that lasts a lifetime.

a century. One such example is Louise Webster, who attended Wilderness between 1947 and 1958. A physicist and astronomer, she co-discovered Cygnus X-1 in 1971 while working at the Greenwich Observatory, the first clear candidate for a black hole ever identified.

To be scientifically literate is perhaps as important, if not more important, today than at any other time in history.

We want our students not to see science as a static body of knowledge, but as an expanding field, where each generation extends the forefront of understanding by building on the work of those who have come before.

The late, great Jane Goodall said

STEM associated fields are of great consequence in today’s world, and women remain underrepresented in these areas.

We believe it is imperative that women pursue careers in these fields and have a voice in the directions that new technologies take.

We are inspired every day by our students’ compassion and their aspiration to make a difference. Through science, some of the most profound differences in the world will be achieved.

Science is a global endeavour, conducted across borders and continents. We aim to inspire our graduates to be responsible global citizens who understand their capacity to influence the world for good.

In Middle School, we strive to make science as hands-on and participatory as possible. Practical experimentation allows students to connect new scientific concepts with their own observations.

We encourage our students to think critically, to ask questions, and to value evidence over superstition. With strong scientific literacy, the world becomes a less daunting and mysterious place. For those who go on to pursue scientific careers, we hope they will be courageous in their ambition to conduct research that improves lives and contributes meaningfully to society.

Students are encouraged to design their own creative experiments, think expansively about the variables involved, and use what they have learned to explain their findings.

We draw great inspiration from our Old Scholars, who have made great contributions to science for more than

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

Middle School

We build their understanding of the scientific method, focusing on data generation, followed by careful analysis of results and evaluation of experimental design.

Every answer leads to new questions. We want our students to ask questions that have never been asked before, which is one of the hallmarks of great scientists.

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When Dr Sally Nobbs first stepped into a Wilderness classroom in 1993, she was beginning her PhD in Organic Chemistry and could never have imagined that it would mark the start of a 33-year journey at the School.

Since then, she has inspired generations of girls, teaching everything from Year 7 Science to Year 12 Chemistry and Biology, and even enjoyed a brief spell coordinating the School’s rowing program.

Beyond the classroom, Sally has also been instrumental in founding Wilderness in Nepal, an initiative that began in 1998 to change the lives of young women in the remote Annapurna region of Nepal by giving them the chance to go to school.

Short interview with Dr Sally Nobbs, OAM What do you love most about teaching senior chemistry?

What have been some of the highlights?

Science is so creative, and senior chemistry is so very straightforward. I have been blessed with intelligent, committed and passionate students with a thirst for knowledge and an eagerness to gain an understanding of their world, who have come on a journey of discovery with me. We always have fun, we experiment, we laugh, we cry, and at the base of it all is a curriculum that is real, interesting and holds a crucial body of knowledge.

In terms of teaching, it is when a student achieves more than she thinks she is capable of. In terms of being at Wilderness, it is making a difference in Nepal to the lives of those less fortunate and initiating the Science Weekend at Crawford.

In terms of my professional life, it is working closely, for those 33 years, with magnificent friends and colleagues.

Senior School In Senior School, we continue to design tasks that allow students to apply their scientific knowledge in practical contexts. Our goal is for senior students to use critical thinking with confidence, an essential skill that underpins our outstanding results in all four senior subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology.

Science Week Science Week was a highlight of the year. This year’s theme, 'Decoding the Universe', offered an opportunity to explore the expansion of human knowledge and discuss recent discoveries, including the detection of potentially organic molecules on planets more than one hundred light years from Earth.

Throughout the week, students from the ELC through to Year 12 enjoyed demonstrations and hands-on experiments that showcased the wonder and excitement of scientific discovery.

Oliphant Science Awards A major highlight of the year was our exceptional success in South Australia’s largest science competition, the Oliphant Science Awards.

This year, there were 3,143 entries from 145 schools—61 of them from Wilderness. The creativity, innovation and passion shown in these entries were outstanding. Wilderness was recognised with second place overall in the Defence Science and Technology Secondary School Prize. Year 12 student, Shanza Ismail, received the highest honour in the competition, the Oliphant Trophy. We also received four first places, one second place, five Highly Commended and had four students recognised for Commemorative Science Writing.

Sam Bartram Head of Science

What are you most proud of?

Helping guide the changemakers of tomorrow.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

SHANZA’S CURIOSITY WINS THE OLIPHANT TROPHY At the recent Oliphant Science Awards, Year 12 student Shanza Ismail was awarded the prestigious Oliphant Science Trophy, South Australia’s highest individual honour in school science.

Shanza received the award for her outstanding project exploring the potential of wearable technology to estimate blood pressure and identify individuals through heartbeat data.

Shanza’s project was inspired by a simple question that grew into a remarkable scientific investigation. “I noticed my smartwatch displayed my heart rate in beats per minute and wondered how it was possible for a watch to calculate this and whether it could also estimate blood pressure,” she said.

“I thought I could investigate creating a user-friendly device to continuously measure BP as my Oliphant project for the Science Inquiry category. My Science Inquiry also sought to investigate whether heart pulse information could be used for human identification.”

Her work combined bioinformatics, machine learning and AI, and reflected both creativity and scientific rigour. “I enjoyed the entire process starting from conceptualising the idea through to literature review, identifying the equipment needed, and familiarising myself with AI and ML methods used in health diagnostics,” Shanza explained.

The process was not without its challenges. “I wasn’t aware that Arduino IDE did not support saving data so after purchasing and waiting for the board to arrive, I had to then spend a considerable bit of time resolving this issue,” she said. “These experiences taught me to always be ready to troubleshoot issues when they appear and to never hesitate to ask for help when things get too complicated.”

When she learned she had won, Shanza was both surprised and thrilled. “It was a complete surprise! I had to read the email from the Oliphant Science Awards a couple of times just to make sure it was real,” she said. “It has certainly validated my passion for science and has also helped identify my interest in working towards becoming a neuroscientist.”

In her inspiring Oliphant Trophy acceptance speech, Shanza encouraged others to embrace their curiosity.

“To my fellow students who are as deeply interested in science as I am, trust that passionate curiosity is the greatest tool you possess.

Never stop asking questions.

Never stop looking for answers.”

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YEAR 12 SACE ART EXHIBITION CELEBRATES CREATIVITY AND COURAGE On Wednesday 15 October, the Visual Arts Department proudly hosted the Year 12 SACE Art Exhibition, celebrating the exceptional creativity and commitment of this year’s graduating artists: Sidney Freestone-Giles, Amelie Paul, Abbey Cartwright, Ava Menzies, Annika Hancock, Zara Gilbert and Ella Johnson.

Throughout the day, students, staff, parents and members of the wider community toured the exhibition, which transformed the Chrysalis into a professional gallery environment. Each piece represented the culmination of the Stage 2 Visual Arts Practical, showcasing sophisticated technique, originality and deeply personal ideas.

The artworks reflected thoughtful self-expression, curiosity and a willingness to

take creative risks, qualities that underpinned the students’ growth as both artists and individuals.

Visitors were inspired by the maturity and authenticity of the work. One parent commented, “This feels like an actual gallery space,” while another added, “I would hang so many of these on my walls at home.” Even the youngest audience members responded with enthusiasm, with a Year 1 student exclaiming, “We have to smile for the photo because then they will know we love their work!”

The exhibition was a celebration of connection and artistic courage, honouring not only the creative achievements of the Year 12 Visual Arts students but also the supportive relationships and shared pride that define the Wilderness community.

Ashleigh Kelly Head of Art

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE: TESS BARTHOLOMEW 3 – 14 November In Term 4, girls from ELC to Year 11 had the exciting opportunity to participate in a series of workshops with South Australian artist Tess Bartholomew as part of the Wilderness School Artist in Residence Program. Tess is known for her expressive landscape paintings that blend realism with imaginative colour palettes, capturing both the beauty and emotional resonance of place.

Throughout the program, each class worked closely with Tess to explore her artistic process, from initial sketches and composition planning to colour mixing and expressive mark making. Students learned how Tess draws inspiration from the natural environment and personal experience, using colour, texture and atmosphere to evoke memory and connection.

The workshops encouraged students to experiment with alternate colour palettes within realistic landscapes, developing confidence in their own visual style. Each student created a unique artwork inspired by a place of personal significance, reflecting not only their technical growth but also a deepening sense of creative identity.

'Between Skin and Seeds' — Zara Gilbert

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

DRAMA AT WILDERNESS:

SEMESTER 2 HIGHLIGHTS Semester 2 was an exciting and creative season for Drama at Wilderness School. It was filled with laughter, hard work and deep learning, with exceptional performances across multiple year levels.

Students from Years 6 to 12 took to the stage, demonstrating courage, collaboration and the pursuit of excellence. These values lie at the heart of our school community.

We began the semester with one of the highlights of our theatrical calendar.

Presented on 7 and 8 August, the Year 12 Drama production of 'The Virtuous Burglar' by Dario Fo was a vibrant, fast paced celebration of comedy, collaboration and creativity. Set in 1950s London, the play uses sharp wit, physical humour and exaggerated characterisation to satirise class, gender and social pretension. Staying true to the genre of farce and Fo’s vision of comedy as a tool for truth, the ensemble explored how laughter can expose hypocrisy and human folly. Featuring lively pacing, physical comedy and striking design, the production showcased the students’ precision, timing and teamwork. It was a joyful culmination of their years together and a fitting finale for an exceptional group of girls.

On 26 August, the Year 9 Drama students presented 'Succedere' by Karen Houghton, a contemporary play exploring ambition, achievement and the meaning of success. The production invited audiences to reflect on the pressures young people face and the many paths success can take.

Led by directors Mia Ellis and Lucia Van Sebille, the students focused on ensemble work and physical theatre techniques. Each of the 29 performers brought depth and authenticity to their role, developing their understanding of the page to stage process and their confidence as creative artists.

On 25 September, the Year 11 Drama class performed selected scenes from 'The Good Doctor' by Neil Simon, a witty and heartfelt exploration of human behaviour that blends Simon’s humour with Chekhov’s sharp observation of everyday life. This project extended students’ skills through accent work, vocal expression and physical characterisation. They balanced truthful acting with presentational techniques, narration and direct audience engagement. The result was a lively and imaginative performance that reflected the writer’s style through thoughtful design and interpretation.

The Year 6 production of 'The Little Mermaid' by Art Reach Children’s Theatre was performed for friends and family over two evenings on 28 and 29 October. Matinees were also presented for St Peter’s College Year 5 students and the Wilderness Junior School.

This enchanting show celebrated the joy of teamwork and creativity, with contributions from multidisciplinary PE and Visual Arts units enhancing the dance and prop elements. The underwater world was brought to life through colourful sets, movement and visual storytelling.

The semester concluded with 'Mediocrity' by Anton Krueger, which showcased the absurdist style. The girls’ interpretation of the text-heavy, highly stylised material highlighted their vocal dexterity and control. Their performance was funny, engaging, and energetically delivered, with each student presenting a strong, clear character and contributing to an entertaining ensemble piece.

Each of the productions confirmed that Drama at Wilderness continues to nurture imagination, empathy, and excellence on and off the stage.

Jessica Foster Head of Drama

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

“...music strengthens our ability to think creatively and connect ideas in new ways, skills that extend far beyond the classroom.”

2025: A DEFINING YEAR FOR MUSIC AT WILDERNESS

2025 has been an extraordinary year for Music at Wilderness, with artistry, collaboration, and achievement across every ensemble and age group. Our students have continued to demonstrate the joy and discipline that come from making music together.

Generations in Jazz Held annually in May, ‘Generations in Jazz’ brings together thousands of young musicians from across Australia. This year was our most successful yet, with the Wilderness Jazz Choir winning Division 1 of the Vocal Ensemble Awards for the second consecutive year. Big Band 1 placed second in Division 3 and earned the Most Outstanding Trombone Section, while Big Band 2 also achieved second in Division 4.

Our Jazz Combo placed fourth nationally, an unforgettable weekend of music, teamwork and friendship.

Year 2 Strings and Year 4 Band Programs Our youngest musicians shone in the Year 2 Strings and Year 4 Band programs, each culminating in joyful concerts that showcased new skills and the excitement of first performances. Many students have since chosen to continue lessons, a reflection of their enthusiasm and the positive impact of these programs.

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Ukaria Cultural Centre Chamber Concert

The Value of Music Education

Our string ensembles performed at the Ukaria Cultural Centre in Mount Barker under the direction of Mr Joseph Freer. The concert demonstrated musical sensitivity and ensemble cohesion in one of South Australia’s most celebrated venues, inspiring both players and audience alike.

As Dr Anita Collins notes, music strengthens our ability to think creatively and connect ideas in new ways, skills that extend far beyond the classroom. At Wilderness, these qualities grow daily as students learn teamwork, creativity and confidence through music.

Eisteddfods and Festivals At the Adelaide Eisteddfods and the South Australian Schools Band and Orchestra Festival, Wilderness ensembles achieved outstanding results, including multiple first-place and gold awards across choral and instrumental divisions. These achievements highlight not only musical growth but also the camaraderie and shared commitment that underpin our music program’s success.

Musician in Residence and Annual Showcase of Music In August, acclaimed performer Amy Lehpamer joined us as Musician in Residence, leading workshops that culminated in our Annual Showcase of Music at the Adelaide Town Hall, themed West End to Broadway. The evening celebrated our musicians’ collective achievements and the vibrant arts community at Wilderness. Audiences were inspired by the depth of talent and collaboration on display.

Music at Wilderness continues to thrive not only because of the accolades but because it remains meaningful to so many of our girls. It is a space where they find their voice, their confidence, and their connection to something greater. It stands as a reminder of the transformative power of music education in shaping both hearts and minds.

Anna Lenartowicz Head of Music

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

SPORT HIGHLIGHTS As we come to the end of another year of sport here at Wilderness, it is a terrific opportunity to reflect on what has been an incredibly rewarding Winter Sport season for our girls.

Winter Grand Finals and Premierships At the end of their seasons, Wilderness had seven teams win their way into grand finals: the Premier League, Middle A, Division 1 White and Division 1 Blue soccer teams, the Senior A Football team, the Senior B Hockey team and the 8B Netball team. All fixtures were played in great competitive spirit.

The Senior A Football team captured back-to-back IGSSA Senior A football premierships, defeating Immanuel in the Grand Final. Our Division 1 White Soccer team were victorious over our Division 1 Blue team.

We also competed in IGSSA Semi Finals in Senior A Hockey and Senior A and B1 Badminton.

Winter Intercol

Interhouse Athletics

The Winter Intercol competition with Seymour College featured competitive matches across Debating, Hockey, Soccer, Netball, Football and Badminton. Our students played with determination and skill, proudly securing the Debating, Soccer and Football trophies.

The annual Middle and Senior School Athletics Carnival was held on Friday 6 September at the SA Athletics Stadium.

Congratulations to Antholiza, who won the Selsey Shield for the overall winning House.

The overall result was close, with Seymour finishing ahead by six points.

Regardless of the final outcome, the commitment, resilience and teamwork shown by all competitors was commendable. The support of spectators, including students, staff, families and old scholars, was greatly appreciated and contributed to the strength of the occasion.

The friendly competition with Seymour has developed into a community event that showcases our school values and talents across many sports. The atmosphere and energy in the crowd is what makes Intercol such a highlight on the Sport calendar.

Team Events Trophy Antholiza Centenary Cup – Highest Aggregate Points (shared) Awarded to Bella Browning (Antholiza, Year 12) and Amaraka Nwachuku (Cedar, Year 8), who scored the maximum 300 points.

Jonathon Koutsikas Director of Sport and Recreation

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS:

A YEAR WITH THE WILDERNESS PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION The Wilderness School Parents and Friends Association has focused on strengthening community connections throughout the year.

We have worked with our Year Level Representatives to help them create social gatherings simply and efficiently.

The role of the Year Level Representative is to facilitate casual gatherings for parents in their year level, allowing for out-of-school connections. These connections provide opportunities for friendships to form and an additional line of communication around school events.

We spend many years with our Year Level parent friends, and often long-term friendships are made as we share the journey of our daughters through their school years.

Buddy Families are current school families who nominate to act as a buddy to a new family and daughter

joining their year level. The Buddy Family provides a warm connection to the new family outside formal school communications. Café catchups between daughters and parents prior to the start of term allow for a safe connection and help ease any trepidation about the first day. The Buddy Family is the go-to via text message for simple, yet very important questions such as “What colour ribbon for summer?”, “When do we wear sports uniform?”, “Does a bus take us to afternoon sport?” and “What is Glee?”

Earlier this year, the P&F returned to supporting Grooves on the Green on Memorial Lawn, providing snacks, drinks and treats to the audience throughout the evening while enjoying the sounds of our impressive music students.

Although not a P&F event, we also supported our Boarding parents at the

Boarders’ Fashion Parade, creating tables of friends and calling for donations for the silent auction.

Term Four is a fun and busy term for the P&F, with support of Junior School Sports Day through parent breakfasts, student lunches and event snacks. We also provided canapés and drinks to all Year 12 girls, parents and teachers following Senior School Speech Night in the Wilderness Café, and hosted the Junior School Christmas Concert, where we provided a BBQ dinner, drinks and festive treats across the two performances.

In conjunction with the Wilderness Old Scholars Association, the P&F also runs the Wilderness School Quiz Night. Due to unforeseen circumstances this year, with the Adelaide Crows entering the finals race, we decided to cancel the live event due to a change in expected

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OLD SCHOLARS’ GOLF DAY 2025 The 2025 Old Scholars’ Annual Golf Day was held on Monday 10 November at the Royal Adelaide Golf Club (RAGC).

Twenty Wilderness Old Scholars attended, travelling from Hamilton VIC, Lucindale, Burra, Mt Osmond and Victor Harbor, along with RAGC members. Three of these old scholars were joining the event for the first time. We joined Woodlands, Walford, Seymour and Annesley to compete in individual and team events, as well as for the much-coveted Ingrid Esau Intra School Cup. More than 113 players took to the course by 8.30am to the inspiring sound of bagpipes, played by the granddaughter of an RAGC member.

Play continued across the magnificent 18-hole course with plenty of enjoyment and conversation. Participants were looked after by generous volunteers who served homemade slices, tea and coffee, sweets and cool drinks throughout the day.

A delicious lunch followed, with prizes and trophy presentations held in the dining room. This offered another lovely opportunity for old and new friends to catch up.

This year’s winner of the Ingrid Esau Cup for the best overall school result, for the third consecutive year, was Wilderness!

Our individual winner of the Wilderness School Old Scholars’ Perpetual Trophy was Primrose Langley (Messner, 1989) with an impressive score of 41 Stableford points. Amanda Warden (Wilson, 1975) was the runner-up.

Primrose and Amanda, along with Sophie Gosse (McCurdie, 1988) and newcomer Jane Bungey (Kennedy, 1981), combined beautifully to win the Wilderness Best Team Stableford award. attendance numbers. In just 48 hours, the two committees managed to turn the event into a virtual one, complete with an online silent auction featuring 54 hampers and a grand raffle prize of a signed 2025 Crows guernsey.

Our association expresses its thanks to everyone in our community who attended events in 2025. We look forward to welcoming our new families and friends to the Wilderness community in 2026.

Jen Guest President, Parents and Friends Association

The 2026 Old Scholars’ Golf Day will be held on Monday 9 November 2026. All Wilderness Old Scholars Association members, along with 2025 participants, will be notified by email.

We hope as many as possible will join us for this happy event.

Susie Osborne (Davidson, 1977)

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OUTDOOR EDUCATION Lauren Walker – Head of Outdoor Education

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM:

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF CRAWFORD At Wilderness School, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Our Crawford Campus, nestled near the Kurangk (Coorong) on Ngarrindjeri Country, provides a truly unique environment for students to challenge themselves as learners and as individuals.

Central to this campus is REALISE, an immersive three-week program undertaken by all Year 9 students.

Here, girls live, learn and lead together, cooking their own meals, managing daily life, engaging with

the local community and navigating challenges in the outdoors. Life at Crawford encourages selfreliance and empathy as girls navigate differences, form inclusive communities and create lasting friendships.

From kayak expeditions on the Kurangk to contributing to conservation projects, each experience strengthens resilience, independence and teamwork.

Students gain a deep appreciation for the environment and the cultural significance of the land, while

developing the skills and confidence to thrive beyond school.

Crawford is more than a campus; it is a place of belonging, reflection and transformation. Through authentic, hands-on learning, girls discover their capabilities and the power of collaboration. They return to school not only with memories of adventure, but with a stronger sense of self, a clearer understanding of their role in the world and a lifelong connection to nature.

At Crawford, our students do not just learn about the world, they live it.

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2025 GOLD AWARDEES Amelia Vlahakis (2022) Annecy Cheung (2022)

GOLD DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD

Leah Unerkov (2022) Martha Beasley (2022) Eliza Corbin (2022) Siena Grech (2024) Lily Erbe (2025)

In 2025, we proudly recorded our highest number of Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award recipients to date.

Imogen Hawker (2025) Alexandra Sandow (2025)

These students were recognised at the Adelaide Town Hall, where our talented Saxophone Quartet also performed, showcasing the depth of talent nurtured across our community.

Lauren Fergusson (2025)

The Gold Award is far more than a badge. It challenges every participant to stretch themselves across Volunteering, Physical Recreation, Skills, the Adventurous Journey and the Gold Residential Project.

Diya Anup Kumar (2025)

Guided by our Outdoor Education team, girls build confidence, resilience and leadership while balancing commitments that strengthen wellbeing.

These are attributes that resonate not only on university and job applications, but more importantly, in life.

New in 2025, the Ningaloo Sea Kayaking and Snorkelling Expedition was introduced as a Gold Adventurous Journey. Students paddled sections of the World Heritage listed reef, explored pristine snorkelling sites and, for many, experienced the thrill of swimming alongside a whale shark. It was an unforgettable blend of challenge, connection and reflection in a truly extraordinary environment.

These milestones speak to our mission to empower every girl to be the best she can be, within and beyond the classroom. Congratulations to our 2025 Gold Awardees, and thank you to the staff and families who walk beside them. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort, ready to find purpose, passion and place in the world.

Niya Singhal (2025) Grace Kong (2025) Emily Nguyen (2025) Miaomiao Yu (2025) Ava-Sofia Georgiou (2025) Olivia Cardone (2025) Madeleine Forde (2025) Marissa Tee (2025) Lucy Gu (2025)

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

NATIONAL BOARDING WEEK AT National Boarding Week, coordinated by the Australian Boarding Schools Association, is an Australia-wide celebration held each May to recognise the unique communities that boarding houses create.

Each day of the week highlights a particular group within the boarding community such as students, staff or parents. This year, Wilderness Boarding House marked the occasion with a full program of activities, all designed to celebrate and showcase the boarding experience at our School.

We began on Monday by taking over Assembly, where our House Captains, Ella and Annabel, shared stories and videos from boarding life with the wider school community. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, we opened the doors for Boarding Breakfasts and

house tours. These mornings gave boarders the opportunity to invite a day school friend or teacher to join them for breakfast and to explore the house. The girls were wonderful hosts, proudly sharing their spaces and explaining what boarding means to them.

Wednesday was Boarders’ Day. We started at recess with a Boarders’ Supper station. Supper is a nightly highlight at 8.30pm and a chance to come together after prep, share news from the day and enjoy a hot chocolate and Tim Tam. We recreated this by selling our supper favourites at recess.

With a queue stretching across the gym foyer, the girls served morning tea to their day school friends. At lunchtime, a BBQ and games on Memorial Lawns were a huge hit.

Our week concluded with our Outdoor Moonlight Cinema which, due to the vagaries of autumn weather, was moved indoors. Luckily this in no way diminished the fun. We welcomed girls from Pembroke and Loreto to watch 'Legally Blonde' and enjoyed plenty of sugary treats including fairy floss, lolly bags and popcorn. It was a wonderful way to end the week and to connect with students from other boarding schools.

While National Boarding Week is a special time for us to come together, opportunities to build community in the boarding house continue throughout the year. During the term, our girls enjoy a range of outings including ice skating, flower picking, Fringe shows, trips to the cinema, cheering on the Adelaide Crows and the ever

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WILDERNESS popular YoChi runs. Weekend in-house activities add to the fun. We have very talented boarding staff who are only too happy to run baking sessions, craft activities, quizzes, talent quests and painting sessions. There are also many inter-school boarding events held during the year that the girls look forward to.

This year, we refurbished our boarding house gym after surveying the girls to find out what equipment they would value most. The updated space now includes three Pilates reformers, hip and leg thrust machines, a Stairmaster and access to online yoga programs. The gym is a popular place for maintaining physical fitness and also strong mental wellbeing. We also have groups of girls from different year levels who head out for regular

morning walks to Melbourne Street for coffee. These walks are a simple and meaningful way for the girls to make connections across year levels.

As part of their leadership, House Captains Annabel and Ella introduced new family groups that compete for the Mary Home House Cup. The groups are named after the five streets surrounding the School, and each girl is allocated to a family group for the duration of her time at Wilderness.

One night each week is Family Dinner Night when groups gather to share a meal, and every fortnight they take part in friendly competitions to earn points. Once a term, a whole house family event is held. Annabel and Ella created the family groups with the aim of building community through connection, and they have left a

wonderful legacy for future captains and students.

Coming together, building community and fostering camaraderie are essential in helping boarders feel a sense of belonging and a true home away from home. The activities and traditions we enjoy within the boarding house play an important role in achieving this.

Go Boarders!

Carolyn Matthews Head of Boarding

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

INSPIRING FUTURES:

PATHWAYS LEARNING AT WILDERNESS From professional interviews to university discovery days, 2025 has been a dynamic year for Careers Education at Wilderness. Each experience has helped students build confidence, self awareness and purpose, while developing employability skills that prepare them to thrive beyond school.

Real World Experience In Week 7 of Term 3, Year 10 students participated in mock interviews with professionals from Apprenticeship Support Australia and a range of industry partners. Students arrived prepared with résumés and job advertisements, stepping into realistic interview settings designed to mirror authentic recruitment processes. Interviewers were impressed by the professionalism and curiosity on display, noting how these opportunities nurture the School’s values of courage, integrity and respect.

Workplace Learning Soon after, Year 10 students continued their career immersion by undertaking work experience placements across industries such as law, health, architecture and engineering. These experiences deepened their understanding of how classroom learning connects to the workplace. Community partners, including SA Health, Detmold and Woods Bagot, generously opened their doors, giving students valuable insight into future career pathways.

Tertiary Evening The annual Combined Tertiary Evening, held in Term 2, provided students and families with an invaluable opportunity to connect directly with universities, training providers and industry representatives. The event brought together more than 30 exhibitors, including the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, TAFE SA and several interstate institutions.

Students in Year 12 explored pathway options, entry requirements and future study trends, while parents appreciated the chance to ask questions about admissions and scholarships. The atmosphere was energetic and engaging, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to supporting informed and purposeful career decisions. Many students left inspired to explore new directions and motivated to plan their next steps with confidence.

Samantha Eliades Coordinator of Pathways and Industries

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EXPLORING 21ST CENTURY CHALLENGES WITH FLINDERS UNIVERSITY This year, 15 Wilderness students participated in the Flinders University Extension Studies Program, completing two university-accredited subjects: Identifying Solutions to 21st Century Challenges and Creating Impactful Change.

Together, these courses represent a pioneering partnership between Wilderness School and Flinders University, empowering students to engage with real-world complexity through innovation, ethical leadership and systems thinking.

In Identifying Solutions to 21st Century Challenges, students explored emerging global issues such as AI governance, climate resilience, urban biodiversity, social cohesion and the future of education. They applied futures thinking and scenario planning to envision possible worlds and design pathways toward sustainable change.

Building on this foundation, Creating Impactful Change guided students to refine and implement their ideas through agility, strategic problem solving and evidence based decision making. Students learned to validate, iterate and lead collaboratively, developing the confidence to turn visionary concepts into actionable outcomes.

The learning journey culminated in the Flinders University Student Showcase at the City Campus on 30 July, where students presented their projects to families, staff and university representatives. One student reflected, “I didn’t even know I could think like that,” while another shared, “It showed me that our ideas can make a real difference.”

This partnership embodies our school’s value of Adventurous Learning in action, equipping young women with the insight, resilience and imagination to create meaningful change in the world.

Liana Rossi Acting Head of Artemis

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

WILDERNESS WELCOMES

EMMA SEARLE

Deputy Principal - Student Experience R–12

Wilderness School welcomed Emma Searle to the role of Deputy Principal - Student Experience R–12 in Term 3, following the departure of Ben Manifold.

Ms Searle brings extensive experience in girls’ education, student wellbeing and leadership across a range of school settings in Australia and overseas.

In her own words, she reflects on her journey and what excites her most about being part of the Wilderness community.

How did your career unfold before joining Wilderness?

I have dedicated the best part of my life to education, both as a student and a teacher, witnessing exceptional practice across a range of school settings in Australia and overseas.

In my current role as Deputy Principal Student Experience R–12 at Wilderness School, I help lead the School’s vision to be a world leader in girls’ education, ensuring girls are provided with opportunities to succeed personally and professionally. I am constantly challenging myself as a leader to embrace change, explore best practice and focus on discovery designed curriculum to support girls’ education through every stage of development, from ELC to Year 12.

My career began in co educational schools in northern Adelaide at Trinity College (North Campus) and Xavier College (Gawler Belt), where I taught Science and Maths and developed expertise in senior teaching, careers

and vocational education, supporting students in their transition beyond school. I later held a range of leadership roles before becoming an Education Consultant for the Abu Dhabi Education Council in the United Arab Emirates for two years. Upon returning to Adelaide, I served in key pastoral leadership positions at Seymour College and Loreto College before being appointed Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement (R–12) at Loreto College Marryatville.

I teach across multiple disciplines, including Senior Science, Mathematics and Philosophy, and am a passionate advocate for girls’ education, adolescent wellbeing and post secondary pathways. As an active member of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS), Positive Education Schools Association (PESA) and Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL), I have presented at national conferences in Hobart (2023), Melbourne (2024) and Sydney (2025) on girls’ education.

What excites you about joining Wilderness School?

Community, community and community.

The opportunity to work alongside exceptional teachers from Early Years to Senior School and with high performing students who value excellence, compassion and authenticity. I am deeply inspired by my colleagues at Wilderness and the shared commitment to nurture and empower every student to be the best they can be. I am excited about enhancing our wellbeing programs across the School, explicitly aligning initiatives with the School’s core values.

What are you most passionate about?

The education and empowerment of girls and young women, equipping them with the knowledge, resilience and courage to lead meaningful lives. I encourage girls to challenge stereotypes and social norms.

What future opportunities do you hope to implement?

I hope to implement a whole school framework for Student Experience, tailored from ELC to Year 12, that integrates social and emotional wellbeing learning initiatives across each stage of development.

I aim to continue exploring learning opportunities in the areas of STEM, Outdoor Education, Citizenship, Service, Sport and Recreation and The Arts, as well as extending international experiences. I hope to build a wellbeing curriculum that has been collaboratively developed by a dedicated team of staff to ensure that every Wilderness girl is seen and equipped with the tools to navigate the complex challenges of modern life.

I also hope to work closely with staff, parents and the broader community to promote service learning and student engagement, ensuring Wilderness School’s approach remains informed by current educational research and global trends.

What have you learnt about the Wilderness community so far?

I have experienced a community that is warm, welcoming and deeply connected to its history. The legacy of the Brown sisters lives on in the authenticity and ambition of the girls, young women who are unapologetically striving to be their best. Global citizenship and social justice underpin all learning at Wilderness, shaping confident, courageous and adventurous leaders for the future.

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STRENGTHENING CONNECTIONS THROUGH

CROSS-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS This year, students across Wilderness have enjoyed a range of collaborative events with other independent schools, building confidence, communication skills and friendships beyond their own classrooms.

The Middle School Social, hosted by our SRC, welcomed boys from Prince Alfred College and St Peter’s College for a fun night that also raised funds for Round Square initiatives such as birthing kits. Year 9 students also took part in a Coeducational Day at St Peter’s College, working together in Drama and Science to solve problems, share ideas and create evidence of their learning.

In the Senior School, our Relationships Day program brought together students from St Peter’s College, Walford and St Peter’s Girls to explore Healthy Communication and Healthy Relationships, supported by guest speaker Daniel Principe.

Wilderness also hosted around 50 St Peter’s boys for a friendly BBQ and team games.

Other opportunities included Prefect Netball with PAC, Prefect Showdown team games with Saints, and the Pembroke Senior Symposium, where students connected over shared topics and ideas.

Seventeen Year 11 students also partnered with St Peter’s College at the 2025 Sony Foundation Holiday Camp, caring for children with additional needs. This wonderful initiative offers joy-filled experiences for the children and provides much-needed respite for families.

Connection through learning continued with the Mind Lab Olympics, which welcomed more than 85 visiting students for challenges that tested creativity and critical thinking. Our Year 12s also partnered with Seymour College for a lively Quiz Night full of teamwork and friendly competition. Even our Boarding Fashion Parade this year featured guest models from St Peter’s College!

Across all of these experiences, one thing stands out.

When schools come together, our girls grow through richer learning, new friendships and a strong sense of connection to the wider community.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

WILDERNESS IN NEPAL 2025 OCTOBER MEDICAL CAMP The Wilderness in Nepal initiative began in 1998 as a Wilderness School project to change the lives of young women in Nepal by giving them the opportunity to go to school.

Since then, our community has supported girls’ education through scholarships and school supplies, helped improve infrastructure and teacher support at Bhadaure School in the Annapurna region, and contributed to the establishment of the Kushudebu Public Health Mission near Junbesi, which now provides vital healthcare to thousands of people.

Following the 2015 earthquake, Wilderness in Nepal has also helped rebuild schools and strengthen local services, always working through trusted partnerships and guided by realistic goals, low overheads and deep mutual respect.

This year, the Wilderness in Nepal group travelled again to Nepal, where they ran a medical camp that treated 733 patients over two and a half days, officially opened the new Emeritus Professor Dr Colin Mathews AO Birthing and Health Clinic, and handed over the key to a new ambulance purchased for the Bhadaure community.

Among those who travelled were two Wilderness students, Shakti and Sharanya Reddy. Below, they share their own reflections on this remarkable experience.

The trip started with two long flights from Adelaide to Singapore and then on to Nepal. When we reached Kathmandu we had a two relaxing nights’ stay at the Hotel Tibet, where we got to know the rest of the volunteers that were part of the Wilderness in Nepal (WIN) group.

After these two days, we travelled via helicopter over the mountains to the Wilderness in Nepal medical camp in Junbesi, where doctors from Kathmandu and Australia volunteer to come and help the people living in surrounding villages.

People from all over the valley were waiting for the opening of Wilderness in Nepal 2025. After all the greetings, national anthems, and speeches from the Mayor and Dr Nobbs, the clinic opened to patients.

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WILDERNESS IN NEPAL: REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR 2026 The next WIN Nepal trip will occur in late September and early October 2026.

Please contact Dr Sally Nobbs at snobbs@wilderness.com.au to register your interest.

During the three-day camp we learnt about different medications, taking patient details, and physiotherapy exercises. We also learned more about the culture and the people of the Solukhumbu district.

Along with Eloise and Elena, we even taught some of the visitors how to make loom bands with one of the donations! The official ribbons were then cut by Dr Nobbs, Sue Harvey, Mark Mackintosh and the Mayor.

to Pokhara, where we were going to hand over the ambulance to Bhadaure.

After a short 45-minute flight we got to Pokhara, where we rested and in the evening took a boat ride to a restaurant.

Some volunteers wrote down necessary patient information while others helped to escort patients to the correct room.

The rooms were separated into General Medicine, Gynaecology, Radiology, ENT/Paediatrics, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy, Lab and Pharmacy.

Altogether, during the medical camp, the collection of Nepali and Australian doctors, pharmacists and physiotherapists treated 733 patients.

After lunch we went on a 700m trek up a steep rocky climb to a monastery where we saw some little monks chanting and got to see little statues and the Buddhist flag. The following day there was another walk to an even bigger monastery. The views were beautiful, even though the uphill walks were tiring!

The day of the ambulance handover, we were greeted with celebratory dances and traditional songs. There were piles and piles of flower garlands (especially for Dr Nobbs). After all of the speeches and performances, we handed over the keys to the new ambulance.

On our fourth day in Junbesi, it was the official opening of the new Emeritus Professor Dr Colin Mathews AO Birthing and Health Clinic. We set up all our donations including clothes, raincoats, toys and books to distribute to those attending.

After Junbesi, the group went their separate ways, with some flying back to Kathmandu for two days of rest and sightseeing. Meanwhile, another group in Lukla had just started their trekking journey.

After a restful two days in Kathmandu, we headed back to the airport to go

We concluded our time in Nepal with a big celebration. We were terribly sad to say goodbye, but this trip will not be the end of the journey of WIN. This experience was truly such an amazing and memorable one. Many thanks for the excellent arrangements and management by Ang Tshering Sherpa and the crew from Keep Walking Nepal and Kushudebu Public Health Mission.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

RECENT EVENTS

GLEE We wrapped up Term 2 with our annual Inter-House GLEE Competition, a spectacular celebration of talent and creativity. This year’s theme, Holiday Destinations, inspired performances that transported us from beaches and mountain peaks to bustling cities and outer space. Each house brought clever storytelling, energetic choreography, and fun music remixes to the stage. Congratulations to all students for their incredible efforts, and a special mention to Amaryllis, this year’s winning house, whose country tale of two feuding farmers brought together by a tornado stole the show.

YEAR 6 MARKET DAY Our Year 6 girls hosted the annual Market Day, running their own market stalls in the gymnasium. A cross-curricular experience, the day combined financial literacy, entrepreneurship, creativity and teamwork, all while encouraging students to think critically about profitable business ideas. The funds raised were donated to the Kids’ Cancer Research Project.

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BOOK WEEK We embraced the magic of Book Week 2025 with the theme ‘Book an Adventure,’ and what an adventure it was. In the 80th year of Children’s Book Week, students celebrated their love of stories through reading, crafts, and the much-anticipated Book Week Parade. From our ELC girls to our Year 6s enjoying their final parade, the creativity and costumes on display were absolutely spectacular. Even our teachers joined in the fun, dressing as Peter Pan, pirates, and other beloved characters.

FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST One of the happiest events of the year, our ELC to Year 2 Father’s Day Breakfast was a heartwarming celebration of family and community. Dads and father figures were treated to handmade gifts and cards from their daughters before enjoying a sunny breakfast together.

GRANDFRIENDS’ DAY The Junior School welcomed their special Grandfriends to Wilderness for a beautiful morning that brought together our community and the generations who shape it. Despite the rain, more than 400 guests joined us for the occasion. The day began with a Welcome Assembly before guests were invited to visit classrooms and share in the girls’ learning. Many also enjoyed the Book Fair, selecting a book together to donate to the Junior School library, followed by morning tea.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

STRENGTHENING OUR FUTURE THROUGH CONNECTION AND GENEROSITY Our old scholar community remains an integral part of our history, and we have enjoyed inviting old scholars back to campus for reunions, Founders Day, morning teas, and cocktail evenings to share our campus and listen to their memories and stories.

Wilderness School has a long history of philanthropy and volunteering, beginning with the generosity of the Brown sisters in establishing the school.

Philanthropy plays a significant role in providing scholarships, fellowships, and prizes, and an optimal learning environment for our students. This year, we offer the inaugural Tucker Rowing Prize for determination in Rowing.

Our benefactors continue to provide opportunities for our teaching and learning community, some of which are outlined in this edition.

Next year, we are pleased to offer a new STEM Fellowship generously established by the family of the late old scholar, Dr Louise Webster (class of 1958).

Throughout the year, we opened our campus to include the stunning Coach House and surrounding spaces for Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 students, as well as the renovated Margaret Brown House and the surrounding Piazza, both generously supported by our community.

Advancement support the Student Foundation, who continue to raise funds for a Junior School Prize, which we will offer in 2026.

Making a gift and supporting our school in other ways are extraordinary steps toward our shared goals. We sincerely thank our community for their impact on building our legacy.

Lisa Taplin Head of Advancement

Pave the Way - Donor Reception In 2025, Wilderness School completed its newest building, our magnificent Coach House.

Our community was integral to the fulfilment of this building project, part of our campus Masterplan.

On Wednesday, 24 September 2025, we hosted a donor thank-you reception to acknowledge the generosity that enabled the establishment of our newest learning space.

Welcomed by Foundation Committee member, Mrs Amy Matthews, we were delighted to share our 21st-century learning landscape with those who supported its genesis through a hosted tour of the Coach House and the named paver courtyard.

Thank you to our community, who enabled the realisation of this beautiful, creative space through their generous support.

Roger Masters Fellowship The Roger Masters Fellowship is offered in Term 1 to a current Wilderness School student to be undertaken in Year 10, 11, or 12. The Fellowship offers an opportunity for a student to participate in a short course or workshop in a drama-related field.

The 2025 Roger Masters Fellowship was jointly awarded to Zara Hill and Eden McConnell. Zara will undertake a Holiday Workshop in Immersive Dance, with Eden participating in Accent on Dance's Triple Threat program.

Congratulations, Zara and Eden.

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Student Foundation In 2025, the Student Foundation committee continued to raise funds for the Junior School Foundation Prize.

Throughout the year, there were many opportunities for girls to contribute to our thriving school community, from organising the Discover and Return Drive to reunite lost items with their owners, ushering and serving canapés at Parents and Friends events, writing milestone birthday cards for Old Scholars, and acting as ambassadors during school tours.

Building on the success of its 2023 debut, our first fundraiser revisited a beloved tradition, the Christmas Ornament Drive. The committee redesigned laser-cut ornaments using the state-of-the-art digital technology available at Wilderness, giving families the opportunity to purchase beautiful, personalised ornaments just in time for the festive season.

In Term 1, we launched the immensely popular Chocolate Drive in celebration of “Galentine’s Day”. Students were invited to purchase premium chocolate hearts that our Galentine’s Cupids anonymously delivered to their galfriends, celebrating kindness and friendship across year levels.

To celebrate Founders Day and the legacy of the Brown Sisters, the Student Foundation worked with the SRC Executives on a Junior School collaborative art project inspired by the opening of the new Coach House, a space for Reception to Year 2 girls.

We were also fortunate to welcome Old Scholar and former Principal, Ms Carolyn Grantskalns, on a tour of the school, reflecting on how Wilderness

Mary Ann Matthews Fellowship 2025 has evolved, while staying true to its values. This year, our focus was on highlighting the bridge between Wilderness’s proud history and its bright future in girls’ education.

In Terms 2 and 3, the Student Foundation hosted the annual Mother’s Day Stall and Father’s Day Stall. A broad collection of items such as unique mugs, sugar cookies, scented candles, socks, back massagers and more were available for girls to purchase as small tokens of appreciation for their parents and caregivers. This year, these stalls were an immense success, raising over $2000 and tripling profits from the previous year.

All funds raised go towards the Junior School Foundation Prize, awarded to a student who demonstrates strong philanthropic values. Committee members also earn points towards their service braid, recognising their commitment to supporting the community.

Being part of such a dedicated, generous committee has been a truly rewarding experience. Working alongside the Middle School representatives and the wider team to see our efforts make a real difference is something I will always value, and I look forward to seeing these values continue to be upheld in the following years.

I am very grateful for all the amazing support this year, and I extend my thanks to everyone who has supported and contributed to the Student Foundation.

Madi Chau, SRC Representative

The Mary Ann Matthews Fellowship is offered annually to our Year 11 or 12 students. This scholarship enables a Wilderness girl to travel the globe and undertake a challenging project or placement, broadening her perspective of the world.

Mary Ann Matthews believed in learning through a global perspective, enabling individuals to respect social, cultural, and religious diversity, thereby fostering a sense of global citizenship.

This year, several outstanding applications were received, with the successful candidate being Year 12 student Abbey Cartwright.

Next year, Abbey will travel to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to participate in a community-based project that improves school facilities, provides resources, and offers childcare support.

Congratulations, Abbey. This is sure to be a life-changing and extraordinary experience. We look forward to Abbey sharing her experience with the school community in the future.

We extend our thanks to the Matthews family for providing our school community with an exceptional and meaningful opportunity.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

DR LOUISE WEBSTER STEM FELLOWSHIP Honouring Dr Louise Webster (1941-1990): Old Scholar, Pioneer of Black Hole Astronomy, and Inspiration for Future Scientists Photography credit: Department of Astronomy, University of Wisconsin-Madison

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Dr Betty Louise Webster (Class of 1958), known to astronomers worldwide as a pioneer in the discovery that Cygnus X-1 was one of the first strong candidates for a black hole, began her remarkable scientific journey in the classrooms, laboratories, and library of Wilderness School.

As an Old Scholar, Louise exemplified what young women can achieve when curiosity is encouraged and talent is nurtured.

Today, more than thirty years after her passing, her legacy continues to have a profound influence on global astronomy.

Now, thanks to Louise's family, her legacy will also inspire new generations of girls at Wilderness, where her journey first began.

From Student to Groundbreaking Astronomer Louise commenced her schooling at Wilderness in 1947 and completed her Leaving Honours as Head Prefect in 1958.

Louise was listed in the Headmistress’ report, winning a Leaving Bursary and the Thornber Bursary for the best pass from the Independent Girls’ Schools. In 1958, Louise won the Parents and Friends’ prize for the best academic record and the Head Prefect's prize. Louise also won a Leaving Prize for Good Work and the Berry Prize for French Conversation. She was the President of the Debating Club and the Litmus Club, and was part of the A Softball and A Basketball Teams.

INTRODUCING THE DR LOUISE WEBSTER STEM FELLOWSHIP To honour Louise's achievements and continue her commitment to scientific discovery and education, Louise’s family has generously established an annual STEM Fellowship for students.

The Dr Louise Webster STEM Fellowship is to be awarded in memory of Dr Louise Webster (Class of 1958), a Wilderness Old Scholar and astrophysicist whose scientific legacy includes the discovery of a black hole.

The Fellowship is designed to encourage young science students in their chosen STEM field, extend their learning beyond the classroom, and foster deeper engagement in STEM disciplines through an approved external experience.

From 2026, the Dr Louise Webster STEM Fellowship will be offered annually to one current Wilderness School student to support their participation in an external STEM-related opportunity that enhances their academic growth, practical skills, leadership, or innovation in STEM fields.

After graduating from Wilderness in 1958, Louise studied physics at the University of Adelaide, where she excelled academically and discovered a passion for astrophysics.

Louise went on to earn her PhD at Mount Stromlo Observatory, researching southern planetary nebulae. Her meticulous research and sharp scientific insight soon drew international recognition.

The Fellowship may be used for participation in one or more of the following:

In the early 1970s, while working at the Royal Greenwich Observatory in the UK, Louise and her colleague Paul Murdin made a discovery that would transform modern astrophysics.

Observing the star HDE 226868, they noticed its motion revealed the presence of an unseen, massive companion object. Their findings pointed to something that had only been theorised until then: a stellar-mass black hole.

• STEM-focused competitions, conferences, or hackathons (domestic or international)

• STEM immersion programs or summer schools (e.g., university-led STEM programs, national science forums) • STEM research projects, including materials or travel required for participation

• Technical workshops, coding bootcamps, or specialised short courses • University STEM subject intensives or mentorship programs

This system was also known as Cygnus X-1, a source of X-rays, and Louise’s work helped establish the companion as the first strong black hole candidate ever identified.

Inspiring Future Generations

Later, after returning to Australia, Louise joined the University of New South Wales, where she helped shape astronomy education, established key observational programs, and mentored young scientists, especially women, who were beginning their careers.

Louise once stood where our students stand now: a young woman with talent, passion and possibility stretching out before her. Her life demonstrates that outstanding scientific contributions can begin with a love of learning nurtured at school.

A Legacy of Brilliance, Humility and Service Although her contributions were profound, Louise remained modest about her achievements. Colleagues remember her as a thoughtful and rigorous scientist, as well as a generous collaborator. She served the astronomical community through leadership roles, including on the Council of the Astronomical Society of Australia.

Due to illness, her life was cut short at the age of 49, but her scientific legacy, and the path she carved for women in physics, remains enduring.

The new Fellowship in her name will help ensure that future generations of girls have the encouragement, resources and confidence to pursue ambitious paths in STEM, and perhaps make discoveries every bit as transformative as hers.

We are most grateful to the family of Dr Webster, Anthony Turtle, Michael Turtle and Old Scholar Judy Webster (née Bullock), Class of 1963, for honouring Louise in this way and providing an exceptional opportunity for our future students in STEM. Lisa Taplin Head of Advancement

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

Lesley Gillan (1990)

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INTERGENERATIONAL FAMILIES:

THE WALLMANS AT WILDERNESS Cedar House and Antholiza House

Wilderness has been part of my family’s story since 1986 when my older sister, Lesley, enrolled in Year 8, and it is quite something to now see my daughters, Scarlett (Year 7) and Hannah (Reception), enjoying the same school experience, albeit with far more impressive facilities than I remember.

Hannah has been spoiled by starting her journey in the stunning new Early Learning Centre and now learning in the Coach House. The grounds are almost unrecognisable compared to my time at school, with so much development and growth reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to creating the best possible environment for its students.

I graduated in 1995 as a proud member of Cedar House, a point of ongoing debate at home, given that my husband Marcus’ sister (Gill Miller, class of ’75) and niece (Susie Wallman, class of ’05 and champion school swimmer) were loyal Antholiza supporters. Our friendly rivalry adds a bit of fun to school events, especially around Sports Day. Earlier this year, our Class of ’95 held our 30-year reunion, and it was a great reminder of the friendships, laughter and experiences that defined our time at Wilderness.

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My school days were full of variety and energy, from debating (which Scarlett has embraced and takes great joy in putting the skills she has learned to use every day at home) and the chess club to my favourite, cheerleading in

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Kirsty Wallman (Gillan) (1995)

Scarlett Drew Wallman (Current Year 7)

Marcus Wallman

Gill Miller (Wallman) (1975)

Susie Wallman

Hannah Wallman

(2005)

(Current reception)

the lead up to Sports Day. I have fond memories of picnics at house captains’ homes after swimming carnivals, visits to the Myrtles and its pool and the excitement of school camps. Lesley vividly remembers the Halley’s Comet camp in 1986 when some brave teachers took a bunch of Year 8 girls through central Australia in buses to view the comet.

Those experiences gave us a real sense of belonging and helped shape our confidence and independence.

Marcus’ sister Gill first went to Wilderness in 1963.

She remembers her first day nerves, arriving with the mandatory hard case and straw hat and being greeted by the headmistress, Mrs Priddle. Although she did not realise it then, many of the girls she shyly looked at that first morning would become lifelong friends, and this is perhaps the greatest gift that Wilderness provides to those lucky enough to attend.

Gill’s other memories of those early years include being given wooden counting blocks that had been painted in colours chosen by her parents at her very first assembly, the thrill of being chosen as chalk monitor to escape class for five minutes to bang the chalk dusters together and the dread of receiving an order mark for being naughty.

The fact that she is so looking forward to her 50th reunion is a testament to how lucky she was to have started at Wilderness more than 60 years ago.

Geoff Wallman

Deb Wallman

Wilderness played a huge role in who I have become. It taught me to think critically, lead with integrity and value community.

Teachers like Ms Johnson, Mrs Jennings and Mrs Farrell (who also played a pivotal role in Lesley’s education) made a lasting impression on me, each encouraging curiosity and self belief in their own way.

Now, as I watch my girls move through the same school, I appreciate more than ever the strong sense of community that Wilderness fosters. The way older girls look out for the younger ones and the genuine culture of encouragement make it a unique and supportive environment for young women to flourish.

I am fortunate to stay connected through the Wilderness Old Scholars Committee, giving back to a school that has given my family so much. With our Scottish roots, my parents were drawn to the Brown sisters’ vision when they first chose Wilderness, a school that continues to evolve but whose heart and spirit remain wonderfully the same.

Kirsty Wallman (Gillan) Class of 1995

1. Gill Miller (Wallman – 1975) 2. Kirsty Wallman (Gillan - 1995) and sister, Lesley Young (Gillan – 1990) 3. Kirsty with daughters Scarlett (Year 7) and Hannah (Reception)

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

2025 GRADUATING REUNIONS AND EVENTS 60 YEAR (1965)

40 YEAR (1984)

Saturday 1 November 2025

Saturday 16 November 2024

The ‘girls’ who left Wilderness in 1965 recently had a 60th reunion attended by old scholars who had come a long way, one from Europe, others from New South Wales and Canberra. After a comprehensive tour of the school, we met others for lunch and had a wonderful time catching up. As you can imagine, the noise level was astronomical! We agreed that at our age 10 years is too large a gap and that we should meet again in five years. Thanks to Rebekah and the school for their organisation.

On Saturday 16 November 2024 the graduating class of 1984 celebrated our 40 year reunion. We were a year made up of girls from the north, west, south and east of Adelaide, rural SA and from overseas. We were a diverse year and all the more interesting for it.

Fiona Verco

50 Year (1975) Friday 24 October 2025 The class of 1975 started a happy reunion on 24 October with a wonderful school tour conducted by Lisa Taplin and Beck King.

Everyone was interested to see the positive changes and additions that have occurred over the years, particularly the newly finished ELC. The group were particularly amused at the transformation of Memorial Hall to the Newman Theatre it now is.

It was then on to the Caledonian Hotel where 30 of us had a delicious dinner at beautifully decorated tables by Edwina Nitschke (Hosking) and enjoyed hearty conversations including past school life and current activities being enjoyed.

Jane Harris (Cowell, Head Girl 1975) proposed a toast to school, the cohort and absent friends, and then the evening flowed on with lots of laughter and of course noise.

Vick Thwaites (Bruce)

Our 40th school reunion was a perfect mix of nostalgia, humour and reconnecting with and remembering past school mates. We are proud to have been the Year 12 Class of the Centenary year, and the reunion provided a great opportunity to reflect on our time at Wildy, including that final special year.

The reunion kicked off with a school tour, where we marvelled at the new facilities, air conditioned classrooms, smart boards, seats in the auditorium and Wi Fi. No more chalkboards or sitting cross legged on the Hall floor for assemblies.

The evening shifted to The Maylands pub, where the 1980s music valiantly tried to compete with our non stop chatter and lost. Between bursts of laughter, teary eyed speeches and a fantastic slideshow we swapped stories and updated each other on life since school. Partners, parents, children and grandchildren all made it into the conversation, though some of us are still trying to figure out how we became old enough for grandchildren.

A special and emotional part of the evening was remembering and raising our glasses to our dear friends Alex Macdermid, Weenie Taylor and Jo Brown who are no longer with us.

It was a great turnout with 39 (more than half of our graduating cohort) celebrating, with some of the alumni making the trip from over the border and even overseas.

Promises to keep in touch were exchanged and the next reunion pencilled in.

Annette Grist

CALLING FOR REUNION CONVENORS In 2026, we look forward to welcoming back the following year groups for their milestone reunions: • Class of 2016 – 10 Year Reunion • Class of 2006 – 20 Year Reunion • Class of 1996 – 30 Year Reunion • Class of 1986 – 40 Year Reunion • Class of 1976 – 50 Year Reunion – scheduled for Fri 23 Oct 2026 • Class of 1966 – 60 Year Reunion

The Class of 1976 is already well organised, with a date and venue locked in for their 50 year celebration thanks to Annabel Blanch, Barbie Johns and Trish Moyle. Be like them. We are seeking convenors from each of the other classes to help coordinate plans and reconnect classmates ahead of their reunions.

If you are interested or would like to learn more, please contact our Old Scholars Engagement Coordinator at oldscholars@wilderness.com.au.

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30 YEAR (1995)

10 YEAR (2015)

Saturday 2 August 2025

Saturday 31 May 2025

On Saturday 5 August, around 40 of us gathered to celebrate the Class of ’95. It was hard to believe that 30 years had passed since our graduation, and the day gave us the perfect chance to catch up, reminisce, share our journeys since leaving school and reconnect with long lost friends.

On Saturday 31 May, around 30 students from the class of 2015, some armed with babies, met at the Hawker Street gate to tour our beloved school.

A brave few kicked things off with a Park Run through the parklands in honour of the dreaded cross country. Numbers grew later in the afternoon as we met back at the school for a tour of the grounds. For those who had not visited in years, it was incredible to see how much the school has developed and transformed. Familiar touches remained, the green door and some of the buildings we remembered so well. But many were amazed by the new facilities, particularly around the ELC and the Coach House.

The celebrations continued into the evening at The Gallery on Waymouth Street, where there was no shortage of laughter, storytelling and shared memories as we celebrated the enduring bond of Wilderness friendships.

A big thank you to everyone who came along, and a special thanks to Kerryn and Dani for organising such a wonderful reunion.

Kirsty Wallman (Gillan)

Our afternoon started in the Archives Gallery where we were greeted by a curated collection of photos from our time at Wildy. We reminisced about drama productions, school sports and House competitions, laughing together as we remembered our time at school. We then toured the grounds, exploring the many changes made since our time at the school. We were particularly awed by the views from The Chrysalis.

After a short break, we continued on to The Maid where, over food and drink, we shared life updates with our cohort, discussing our education, careers, travel plans and family updates. It truly was a lovely chance to catch up.

A big thank you to all those who made this reunion possible.

I, as I am sure many others do, look forward to coming back and seeing what everyone is up to in 2035.

Brooke Washusen

SYDNEY REUNION A group of Wilderness Old Scholars based in New South Wales recently gathered for an informal catch up organised

by Booie Michaels. Though not an official reunion, Principal Belinda Arnfield was fortunately able to attend and it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and share news from across the years.

Do you keep in touch with old friends from Wilderness and arrange your own catch ups? We would love to hear about it!

FUTURE EVENTS Young Old Scholars’ Reunion For graduating years 2021 – 2025 Wednesday 18 February, 6-8pm at Wilderness School QLD Reunion – all years welcome Friday 27 February from 12pm – More details to come via email.

Please contact our Old Scholars Engagement Coordinator at oldscholars@wilderness.com.au if you are in Queensland and would like to receive notifications about this reunion.

Class of 1995 during their reunion tour

Southern Fleurieu and surrounding areas catch up – all years welcome Wednesday 18 March 2026.

– More details to come via email.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

WILDERNESS WOMEN

LEADING THE WAY

NATASHA MALANI Class of 1991 CEO of South Australian Leaders and Former Adelaide Deputy Lord Mayor

How did your time at Wilderness influence the path you followed after graduating?

What memory from your school days has stayed with you the most?

My journey since leaving Wilderness has led me to build a wonderful network of people. Wilderness enabled me to open doors, and I have been able to leverage this into a career across business, government and leadership networks, always centred on connecting people and opportunities.

The most special and significant memory I have of my time at Wilderness is the friendships I made, many of which have lasted a lifetime.

What stands out as a defining milestone in your career so far?

My most significant career highlight so far is serving eight years as an elected member for the City of Adelaide, including as Deputy Lord Mayor. I have also had the privilege of working on projects that genuinely changed people’s lives, for example leading the Dream Team Project for the Government during the Cricket World Cup 2015, chairing the Zahra Foundation, and over the past decade building South Australian Leaders into a recognised platform that helps mid-market businesses grow and thrive.

Was there a teacher who made a lasting impression on you during your school years?

My favourite teacher at Wilderness was Jan Farrall. She encouraged me to think independently and back myself.

Which Wilderness value continues to guide you today?

The Wilderness value that has stayed with me is Courage, taking on challenges even when the outcome is not certain.

What do you appreciate most about living in Adelaide?

My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is enjoying the lifestyle.

I am a proud South Australian who enjoys our food, wine, beaches, hills and clean green living.

Who would you choose to share a long lunch with, given the chance?

If I could have a long lunch with anyone, it would be Julia Gillard or Julie Bishop. I admire women in politics who have led with courage and resilience in challenging environments.

What are the essentials you cannot imagine life without?

The three things I cannot live without are my friends and family, English Breakfast Tea or Indian Chai and travel.

What guidance would you offer your 18-year-old self?

The advice I would give to my 18-year-old self is to manage your self-talk. Realise that you can change a thought and that fear exists only in the mind.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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We congratulate the following Old Scholars on their special milestones:

WILDERNESS BABIES 1. Jasmin Newton (2015) and Douglas Pearce welcomed Banksia Bloom Pearce on January 13, 2025.

2. Tiffany Jape (2011) and Justin Orlow welcomed Bowie Kai Long JapeOrlow on May 29, 2025.

3. Claire Hockley (2015) and Mitchell Rogers welcomed Elliot Milo Rogers on July 20, 2025.

4. Kate Olsson (2006) and Andrew McKinnon welcomed Arthur Murray McKinnon on July 23, 2025.

WILDERNESS ENGAGEMENTS 6. Georgia Smithson-Tomas (2014) and Dr Michael Erian were engaged on 5 May 2025.

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WILDERNESS WEDDINGS 7. Imogen Lesicar (2018) married Michael Hanlan on 11 May 2024 at Longview Vineyards. Old Scholars, Emily Yull (2017) and Zara Fenton (2018) were in the bridal party.

8. Rachel Koch (2010) married Richard Dawes on 29 March 2025 at Anvers Wines. The day kicked off with an unexpected helicopter entrance and continued on a high for the rest of the night!

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5. Emma Johnson (2008) and Jake O’Connell welcomed Freddie David O’Connell on July 15, 2025.

STAY CONNECTED AND UPDATE YOUR DETAILS We love hearing from our Old Scholars, to share in your milestones and celebrate your success. If you have something to share, or you would simply like to update your details to stay in touch, please email your news and accompanying photo, or updated details, to oldscholars@wilderness.com.au.

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Wilderness Times | Winter – Spring 2025

IN MEMORIAM We extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of the following Old Scholars: Old Scholars Ina Laver (Carpmail) 1936 Margaret Llewellyn (Peters) 1936 Bettine Price (Redwood) 1941 Margaret Michelmore (Finlayson) 1942 Margaret Forbes (Blackburn) 1945 Annette Argent (Watkie) 1950 Lynette Brokensha 1950 Elizabeth Steven (McEwin) 1950 Betty Tothill (Argent) 1950 Bev Byrne (Rogers) 1950 Natalie Haines (Neill) 1952 Tommie Siekmann 1956 Diane Burnett (Renk) 1958 Elizabeth Fischer (Pope) 1960 Margie Patrick (Verco) 1960 Merdie Clarkson (Irwin) 1961 Primmy Cochrane (Swan) 1962 Deb Hunt (Trembath) 1968 Penny Thring (Black) 1973 Old Boys Toby Forwood – Attended 1941 - 1943 Tom Chapman – Attended 1946 – 1947 Michael Burgess – Attended 1950 – 1951

Staff We are saddened to advise of the passing of Mrs Maureen Williams, on 28 August 2025. Mrs Williams taught at Wilderness School from 1975 to 1979 and was a dedicated teacher of History.

She also served as Carob House Mistress during her time at the School. She is remembered for her kind and thoughtful nature and her commitment to her students and the Wilderness community. We extend our sincere condolences to her family and friends at this sad time.

It is with sadness we also advise of the passing of Mrs Cynthea Kimber, former teacher and Deputy Principal at Wilderness, on 20 June 2025. Mrs Kimber was a highly respected and much-loved educator, remembered for her warmth, wit and dedication to her students. During her time at Wilderness, she taught mathematics and English literature, and in 1983 was appointed Deputy Principal, a role she held for six years. Known for her intellect, humour and deep commitment to supporting young women, she left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is sadly missed by her loved ones, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband, family and friends.

We further share the sad news of the passing of Mr Bernardino (Ben) Porcaro, a valued member of staff at Wilderness School from 1981 to 2009, who passed away on 15 May 2025. During his 28 years of service, Ben worked in the Maintenance Department, later taking on the role of Head of Maintenance.

He was known for his friendly nature, ever-present smile, and willingness to help wherever needed. Ben took great pride in keeping the school grounds safe, tidy, and welcoming for students and staff. He always had a kind word for the girls and was admired for his dedication and warmth. Ben will be fondly remembered by many in the Wilderness community. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.

If you know of an Old Scholar, friend or past staff member who has passed away, please let us know by emailing oldscholars@wildnerness.com.au.

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WILDERNESS PLAYGROUP IN 2026 Wilderness School’s much-loved Playgroup will return in 2026. Led by our experienced and highly qualified early childhood teachers, each session will offer thoughtfully designed play experiences and provocations that spark curiosity, inspire exploration, and nurture early learning and development.

Families will spend time within our Reggio-inspired, homely Early Learning Centre environment, as well as enjoy opportunities to explore other special parts of our school.

It’s a gentle and joyful way to begin your Wilderness journey.

Our playgroup is also a beautiful opportunity to connect with other families, build a sense of belonging, and celebrate this precious stage of early childhood together.

Sessions will run on Friday mornings from 9.30–11.00am at Wilderness School during Term time.

Please note that bookings are for full-term participation only. The cost is $100 per term for one child, with sibling discounts available.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

30 Hawkers Road, Medindie SA 5081 Phone + 61 8 8344 6688 www.wilderness.com.au CRICOS Provider Code: 00375B