Wilderness Times #102

SUMMER – AUTUMN 2026

ISSUE # 102

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

CONTENTS About the Cover

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Principal’s Thoughts

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Chair of the Governing Council - Speech Night Address

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Daisy McGregor - Speech Night Address

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2025 Valedictory Address

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Class of 2025 Outstanding Results

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Meet our SRC Executive

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True to Their Own Path

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Learning Leadership through Action in Year 6

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Recent School Events

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Faculty in Focus - Sport

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A League of Their Own

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Head of the River 2026

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Professional Partnerships

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Learning Through Live Theatre

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Overseas Opportunities

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Recent Parents and Friends Events

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Old Scholars' Jazz Choir

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Wilderness Women Leading the Way

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Reflection from the WOSA President

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Strength in Community

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2026 Taxation Appeal

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At the Edge of the World

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Graduating Reunions and Events

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Announcements

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Upcoming Reunions and Old Scholar Events

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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

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ABOUT THE COVER This edition’s cover captures the energy and teamwork of our Summer Intercol against Seymour.

Across a full program of sport, including rowing, swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball and water polo, our Middle and Senior students represented Wilderness with pride. There were strong performances across the board and standout results in swimming, basketball and touch football.

We look forward to continuing the friendly rivalry in Winter Intercol.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

PRINCIPAL’S THOUGHTS

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2025 SPEECH NIGHT ADDRESS The 2025 Speech Night brought our community together to reflect on a year of shared purpose. In her address, Principal Belinda Arnfield spoke about the strength of community, the role of education and the qualities that will shape our girls’ futures.

A community we create together Tonight we gather as a community to celebrate another year of learning and shared purpose. And when I speak of the Wilderness 'community', I really do refer to something that is active and deliberate. I have been part of Wilderness for over two decades and know that our values and purpose, like any community, are not simply inherited. They are created. Our community is shaped each day by the actions, by the words and the commitment of the people within it.

Our school is as strong and vibrant as it is because we have made it together.

The daily life of Wilderness is filled with moments that reflect our collective strength. Our girls work side by side on their learning, we celebrate each other's success openly and our staff go above and beyond for the girls in their care. These moments do not appear in reports or timetables, but they are the threads that weave our school together. They are the moments that create a community where we feel seen and valued.

The novelist George Eliot captures this spirit of contribution with gentle clarity:

“What do we live for, if not to make life less difficult for each other?”

This is the work of community. Not to remove challenge, but to ensure that no one faces it alone.

Communities grow when their members give their energy and their presence. Research from the

University of Chicago and the London School of Economics shows that acts of generosity consistently elevate the wellbeing of the giver. Giving strengthens connection, increases life satisfaction and improves emotional resilience. The science is clear. We gain when we give.

Education with purpose Our belief in a community built on giving and responsibility has shaped the kind of education we value at Wilderness.

This curriculum has once again enabled our girls to achieve exceptional academic results, placing our school at the top in South Australia. Their achievements in the classroom reflect intellectual engagement and depth of understanding. But academic strength is not isolated from community. It grows from the confidence that comes when a young person feels known and challenged, when she feels encouraged to take intellectual risks and when she trusts that her effort matters.

This commitment to learning and responsibility is not confined to the classroom. Beyond the classroom, our girls excel across a wide array of fields.

Our athletes demonstrate teamwork and resilience, our musicians perform with precision and creativity. Our debaters think critically and speak with insight. These achievements are all expressions of the same underlying qualities of discipline and a commitment to learning.

They also reflect the capabilities that the University of Sydney’s Skills Horizon report identifies as essential to the future of work. Knowledge will

always matter, but the capabilities that differentiate tomorrow’s leaders are profoundly human. Communication and ethical reasoning, adaptability and critical thinking, emotional intelligence and the capacity to collaborate across differences are all essential.

Growing through challenge and change This adaptability is particularly important in the context of the technology that is reshaping the world our girls are entering. Artificial intelligence in particular has prompted much discussion, some anxious, some passionate, almost all of it urgent. But as technology grows more capable, the value of human judgment, empathy, creativity and ethical thinking grows alongside it. These are the qualities that cannot be automated. They are the qualities that shape leaders.

This is one of the great strengths of Wilderness as an ELC to Year 12 school. It cultivates humanity. The entire school becomes an ecosystem of learning and leadership. In this environment, girls grow into young women who understand that their actions matter.

Looking ahead To our girls, thank you for your curiosity, your courage and your spark.

As you prepare to leave school, you carry with you the strengths you have built here. You know that leadership begins with service. And you know, girls, that you are all ready to steer your own ship.

Belinda Arnfield Principal

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

CHAIR OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL 2025 SPEECH NIGHT ADDRESS Tim Binks has served as Chair of the Governing Council since 2024. In his Speech Night address, he reflected on the changing landscape of education, the opportunities and challenges facing young people, and the role Wilderness plays in preparing girls for life beyond school.

Preparing for a changing world Tonight we celebrate the achievements of our senior students and, in particular, farewell the Year 12 class of 2025 as they leave the Wilderness village to take on the wider world.

whole area now captures that village-like feel that we seek, creating a safe environment that encourages the girls to be adventurous, take risks and explore their hidden talents with no fear of judgment or criticism.

Preparing our girls for the adult world becomes more complex all the time. The rise of social media and the more recent surge in the use of artificial intelligence present fresh challenges, in particular for schools.

Our next task is to better connect this lower area of the school with the rest of the campus. We intend to open up the ‘spine’ of the school by redeveloping the gym area, creating a community gathering hub and the beating heart of the school.

Artificial intelligence has been around for some time, but has more recently been weaponised through massive investment into something that touches and influences virtually everything in our lives. It’s the pace at which AI is being developed, embraced and relied upon that has shocked me. The most obvious concern is the impact of AI on the potential jobs and occupations for young people in the future.

Tonight’s guest speaker, Old Scholar Daisy McGregor, is a great example of what we are trying to achieve at Wilderness. Her career has been shaped by the ability to think on her feet and show leadership and resilience, well outside of her comfort zone.

Rest assured that Wilderness is dealing with AI day-to-day as part of educating your daughters and preparing them for a tech-heavy world.

The ability to adapt to these rapidly changing conditions is an endorsement of our DNA at Wilderness. One of our core philosophies is to ‘educate the educators’ to ensure that your daughters get the best teaching possible and the best start in life.

We invest in the ongoing development of our teachers, encouraging them to embrace AI technology in a measured way. We ensure that teachers are proficient enough to help the girls navigate the AI-related challenges coming their way.

A school in motion Wilderness has enjoyed another strong year in 2025. Many of you would have seen the building developments at the southern end of the school which have now largely been completed. Together with extensive landscaping and more open space right through to the Early Learning Centre, the

Another example was demonstrated earlier this year when we introduced our own bespoke university offering in collaboration with Flinders University, alongside Adelaide University’s HeadStart Politics program, providing opportunities for our girls to undertake university subjects within the safe confines of our School.

Looking ahead Thank you to our staff, who are unflinchingly committed to the cause of educating and caring for our girls.

Thank you to our families, and the parents and grandparents that support the girls through this formative period of their lives and, in particular, the tough test that Year 12 is.

And to those girls leaving us today, we are sad to see you go but super-excited about your future.

Please aim high in life, be kind, truthful, resilient and willing to collaborate with others.

Above all, respect everyone, and you will be just fine.

Tim Binks Chair of Governing Council

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

DAISY McGREGOR 2025 SPEECH NIGHT ADDRESS Daisy McGregor (Class of 2003) returned to Wilderness as Speech Night's guest speaker, sharing a powerful message with our outgoing Year 12 students.

From her early interest in economics at school, Daisy has built an impressive international career, from the Reserve Bank of Australia to the Bank of England, advising Mark Carney (now Prime Minister of Canada), working at 10 Downing Street, and now at Anthropic, one of the world’s leading AI companies.

In her address, Daisy spoke candidly about her journey and the challenges she has faced. The theme of her speech was courage, reminding the Class of 2025 to back themselves, embrace uncertainty and step outside their comfort zones.

Hi, I’m Daisy.

I was in the class of 2003 at Wildy, 22 years ago.

It’s an absolute privilege to be back here and able to reflect on what has happened since.

The purpose of these speeches is typically to share some accumulated wisdom from those past 22 years, which I have to say also feels crazy because I still feel like I am figuring it out.

In any given week I will feel excited, happy, grateful and joyful; I will also, in any given week, feel worried, scared, vulnerable, anxious and compare myself to people who seem superhuman.

I’ve chosen courage as the theme of my speech tonight because I think it’s the thing I have done okay. I am not the smartest person in the room. I’m not the most articulate. I rarely dazzle people with my brilliance — but I think I might sometimes be the most courageous. And I’ve never come across a single example of high achievement without it.

I’ve spent the last couple of months reflecting on all this, and I’m going to break that down into four specific pieces of advice.

One: You can do whatever you want. The difficult bit is knowing what you want.

When I chose to study accounting, it was mostly out of fear.

I wanted to be sure I could get a job after university, and accounting seemed like a safe bet.

Right now, you are carrying a lot of others’ expectations.

They may be very well-meaning — but they can’t see inside your soul. You are the only person who can decide what you really want.

And going after what you really want takes a huge amount of courage, especially if what you want to do feels ‘risky’.

But there is no better time to take risks. One of the things I most wish someone told me at 18 is that you have time.

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And there is literally no better use of that time than to try new things, change paths or have a crack at something that feels one in a million.

Also, things feel much riskier than they are. I’ve really learned that whatever I think I’m capable of, I’m actually capable of a lot more.

I have a Winnie the Pooh quote pinned up in my house that says, “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” And it’s true. If someone told you right now the things you’ll do in the future, you wouldn’t believe them. You should be shooting for your wildest dreams — and beyond.

So before we move on, I want to ask the Year 12s a question, and I want you to listen to the first answer that comes into your head.

Four: You will be fine.

This is the advice I most wish I knew when I was 18.

That things are going to be great, and then things are going to be hard, and then you’ll land an amazing job, and then you’ll break up with someone and feel like you’ll never recover, and then you’ll go on an adventure overseas and it will at first be great, but then you’ll realise you’re lonely and homesick, and then another good thing, and then another bad thing…

And you will be fine.

We haven’t actually talked about happiness yet. Careers give your life meaning and are certainly contributors to happiness.

But for most people, their primary source of joy is from the people in their lives.

Imagine for a moment that you can do anything. What would you do?

You’re neither meant to do work nor life on your own. If you are going to do risky things, sometimes they aren’t going to work out. You’ll get kicked in the guts, and you need your friends to pull you out.

Two: Do things that make you scared.

_____

There is no such thing as fearless. If you are going to get what you really want, you need to take some risks — and that means overriding your fears.

To me, it felt risky going back to the University of Adelaide to study economics when all my friends were heading out into the workforce.

So congratulations, you are officially adults, young and free, and in charge of your own destiny.

What are you going to do?

My advice, if it wasn’t already obvious…

It felt risky to ask to lead a project at the Bank of England that would mean I would get to present to Mark Carney and get his attention. What if I messed it up?

Try things. You can’t choose your career from behind a laptop.

The thing you think you like — you might hate — and the thing you love might have never crossed your mind.

And it felt risky when I approached one of the founders of Anthropic and told him he should employ me, without a job even having been advertised. You only get one shot at that pitch.

Do stuff. Don’t just think stuff — do stuff. Thinking doesn’t make things happen.

These examples make me sound like I’m really confident. I’m not. In all these scenarios, I have felt sick.

And when you mess up — or don’t mess up but still get kicked in the guts — don’t panic. Try again. At some point your bet will pay off.

The point is — if you are going to get what you want, you are going to feel scared. You have to ask for things and push for things that seem out of reach. Unfortunately, people don’t just give you opportunities — you have to chase them. As Taylor Swift once said — effortlessness is a myth.

The good news is, when you feel scared, that’s when you know you’re on the right track.

Three: Choose people.

Throw yourself at the risky thing that makes you scared. And again.

Be kind of annoying. Go after things you want, and persist.

Push through that knot of fear in your stomach and the doubt swirling in your head.

And always be nice. Be exceptionally nice. Everyone is doing their best and nice wins in the long run.

Say no to things that don’t feel right, no matter how shiny they are.

No matter what you want to do, you are going to need help. You are not meant to do this by yourself.

And — I feel like I need to say something about AI — learn to use AI properly. I don’t know what the future of jobs looks like, but I know that you and AI together can achieve more than you alone.

Whenever I’ve made jumps that seem unrealistic on paper, it’s because someone helped me.

Because life doesn’t have blue jumpers or pockets or braids or ATARs.

I often think of all of these angels who have pulled me along.

I owe them everything. I let them know whenever I make another move and the role they played. And now, I try to pay it back and help others who are earlier in their careers.

There is no prize, no finish line, no winner and no single definition of success.

Don’t choose jobs, don’t choose companies — choose people.

This is how everyone who has had a measure of success feels.

That’s why when you need advice, work experience, or just a sounding board — you only have to ask.

Other people actually don’t notice what you do most of the time. The only person that has to live your life is you.

Not your parent, not your teacher, not your friend.

Only you know what you want.

So go and get it.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

2025 VALEDICTORY ADDRESS LUCIA ANDRAE

Lucia Andrae delivered the 2025 Valedictory Address, reflecting on the shared experiences, growth and connections that have defined her cohort’s time at Wilderness.

How much we’ve grown together

The moments that mattered

I would like to acknowledge that we gather together tonight on land that was, and will always be, Kaurna land. I pay my respects to the Kaurna elders past and present, and to the elders of other Indigenous nations. In doing so, I acknowledge the role that many Aboriginal women play in advancing the interests and lives of girls and women, generously sharing wisdom and culture across time.

So, as I contribute another entry into our cohort’s story, I would like to talk about our final year as Year 12s. We have shared many special moments this year, including our school formal, the Year 12 retreat, prefect showdown, our Year 12 production, Jazz at the Gov, Intercol, Glee, and much more.

While these moments were unforgettable, it was everything in between that I believe truly mattered to our cohort, from the innocent laughter in the common room to playing cards for ‘five minutes’ in our ‘five-minute’ break, or simply sitting together after a long day. It’s in these small, ordinary moments that our connectedness shone through, reminding us that what made this year so special wasn’t just what we did, but who we did it with.

Throughout our time at Wildy, we have been blessed with some of the best memories. For many of us, school camps often resurface when we reflect on our time. These experiences came to me after a spontaneous revisit to my Outdoor Education journal, which logs all of my school camps dating back to Year 2. From the Zoo Snooze, which entailed a highly anticipated sleepover at the Adelaide Zoo, to the not-so-anticipated Year 6 bike camp, which was made all the more memorable when Miranda managed to fall off her bike into the Torrens River, and most notably, our final camp: REALISE. Now, when I opened the journal to my first entry, I won't lie, I was hoping to have written something wholesome as a highlight I could share with you all tonight. However, I'm sorry to say my highlight was, in fact, a cool tree. Despite this, I read on to learn that the whole appeal of the Zoo Snooze was not the animals, but the innocent fact that for many of us, that night was our very first sleepover away from home.

When I later turned to my Year 9 entries from REALISE, in which we shared a cabin for three weeks away from our families, I couldn’t help but smile at the difference. It was a sweet and slightly intimidating reminder of how fast we have grown up. However, as I stand here tonight, I couldn’t be prouder. Not just of how far we’ve come, but of how much we’ve grown together.

Always true So, while this next chapter might be a little scary as we step beyond the gates of Wildy, I hope we each carry forward what Wilderness has given us: the courage to be ourselves, the curiosity to keep learning, the kindness to help others, and the heart to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.

These are the lessons that guide us in friendships, in challenges, and in every new beginning that lies ahead.

No matter how far we go or how much we change, may we never forget who we are, where we came from, and the memories that shaped us.

Because at its core, that’s what it means to be a Wildy girl.

To be, in every sense, always true.

Lucia Andrae Class of 2025

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

AN OUTSTANDING YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT These are exceptional results.

I am incredibly proud of our Year 12 girls, and the wonderful teachers who challenge, support and inspire our students every day. I congratulate everyone in our community on another extraordinary year.

The Class of 2025 delivered an outstanding set of results that firmly placed Wilderness School as the top-performing school by ATAR in South Australia in 2025.

There were 95 girls who applied for the ATAR. With a median ATAR of 96.7 and first place in every key performance category, including 99+, 95+ and 90+ ATARs, their results reflect academic excellence at the very highest level.

Behind these numbers is a cohort of young women who approached their studies with purpose and determination, learning in an environment shaped by thoughtful teaching, high expectations and genuine care. Together, they demonstrate what is possible when girls are supported to aim high and are believed in at every step.

Belinda Arnfield Principal

MEDIAN ATAR

96.7

99+

95+

90+

21% PLACED IN THE

65% PLACED IN THE

80% PLACED IN THE

ATAR

TOP 1% NATIONALLY

ATAR

TOP 5% NATIONALLY

ATAR

TOP 10% NATIONALLY

THE FOLLOWING STUDENTS ALL ACHIEVED AN ATAR OF 99 OR MORE:

Lucia Andrae, Diya Anup Kumar, Madison Chau, Milly Entwistle, Ava-Sofia Georgiou, Lucy Gu, Sonali Jesudason, Zoe Koerber, Olivia Lai, Lucinda Marks, Emily Nguyen, Tiara Pullinen, Aleira Rastogi, Jemimah Satchell, Sherri Shi, Niya Singhal, Natalie Vu, Layla Woodall, Sindy Yang and Tehreem Zafar.

ATAR OF 99.85

NIYA SINGHAL & SONALI JESUDASON Named joint Dux of School with an ATAR of 99.85

2 GOVERNOR’S AWARDS NIYA SINGHAL & ZARA HART The Governor of South Australia Commendation Excellence Award

42 HIGH DISTINCTIONS AND 28 DISTINCTIONS Achieved in university courses across multiple faculty areas

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SACE STAGE 2 SUBJECT RESULTS % Wilderness

% State

45

41%

OF INDIVIDUAL SUBJECT RESULTS RECEIVED AN

Percentage of Results

40 35

A+ GRADE

30

STATE AVERAGE: 6%

25 20 15 10 5 0

A+

A

A-

B+

B

BC+ Grade

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS These exceptional results matter because of the opportunities they create. They give girls the confidence to follow their passions and open doors to diverse and meaningful futures.

Of the cohort, 81% of students received a university offer to their first-preference degree. They are pursuing studies across more than 30 fields, from architecture and the creative arts to business, law, engineering, education, health, medicine, psychology and science, and have accepted offers from 12 universities across Australia and internationally. The majority (73%) are attending Adelaide University.

CHOSEN DISCIPLINE AREAS OF STUDY 50

49 Number of students

22

10

Health & Medicine

D+

D

81%

Law & Commerce

10

10

Engineering & Technology

Arts & Humanities

3 Science

2 Education

D-

RECEIVED OFFERS TO THEIR FIRST PREFERENCE UNIVERSITY DEGREE

30+ 12

30

0

C-

UNIQUE FIELDS OF STUDY

40

20

C

UNIVERSITIES ACROSS AUSTRALIA & INTERNATIONALLY

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

STUDENTS ACHIEVED

77

MERIT LISTINGS

Lucia Andrae

Diya Anup Kumar

Dua Ashraf

Holly Bahr

Poppy Christensen

Jessica Davey

Emmy Denys

Ariana Dimovic

Maya Fuller

Ava-Sofia Georgiou

Zara Hart

Imogen Hawker

Emily Maddison

Lucinda Marks

Beatrice Marshman

Jade McAskill

Tiara Pullinen

Aleira Rastogi

Athena-Malar Retnaraja

Annabel Sanders

Mackenzie Wilkes

Annabel Williams

Layla Woodall

Felicia Xing

IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES:

• Activating Identities and Futures • Biology • Business Innovation • Chemistry • Digital Communication Solutions • English • English Literary Studies • General Mathematics • Industry and Entrepreneurial Solutions • Mathematical Methods • Physical Education • Psychology

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Anastasia Baran

Annabelle Basham

Holly Bates

Isabella Beaumont

Summer Bishop

Olivia Cardone

Madison Chau

Rhea Dinesh

Tam Do

Milly Entwistle

Jessica Felstead

Lauren Fergusson

Isabel Flowers

Sidney Freestone-Giles

Tianney Hong

Isabel Jackson

Sonali Jesudason

Georgina Karytinos

Zoe Koerber

Olivia Lai

Zara Librandi

Anastasia McMullen

Holly Munro

Portia Newton

Lily Nicholls

Emma Oborn

Emma Portolesi

Greta Pratt

Ella Scholz

Sherri Shi

Niya Singhal

Molly Thomson

Natalie Vu

Miranda Wells

Isabelle Weng

Sindy Yang

Hannah Yeo

Miaomiao Yu

Tehreem Zafar

Cate Zander

Yasmin Zarrabi

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

STUDENT VOICE IN ACTION:

MEET OUR SRC EXECUTIVE

At the beginning of the year, our 2026 Student Representative Council Executive, President Summer Bishop, Vice President Tianney Hong and Secretary Tam Do, travelled to Canberra to attend the Australasian Student Leadership Conference.

Delivered in partnership by yLead and the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, the three-day program is designed to support and develop female student leaders.

Across the conference, the team built their skills in communication, pitching ideas and managing conflict, while connecting with students from across Australia and beyond. The experience offered both perspective and inspiration, helping to shape their approach to leadership as they lead the School this year.

We spoke with Summer, Tianney and Tam about what leadership means to them, what they hope to achieve, and the values guiding their year ahead.

What do you hope to achieve this year in your SRC roles?

Summer: “This year as SRC President, I hope to leave behind a legacy I feel proud of, where I can look back on the year feeling fulfilled by the efforts I made to foster an inclusive and enjoyable school community. I aim to introduce initiatives that will continue beyond our leadership team, creating lasting positive change within the school, while also making our culture more fun and exciting.”

Tianney: “This year, I hope to uplift others and help them recognise their own value. I understand how important it is to feel appreciated, accepted and heard, and how supporting even one person can create ripple effects that benefit an entire community. But above all, I hope to build new connections while strengthening existing ones, and to leave Wildy an even better place than I found it.”

What does the Year 12 theme, 'Bloom', mean to you?

Tam: “It means creating the conditions and environment where every student feels supported enough to take risks, develop their passions, and believe in their true potential. As we eventually leave the roots of the school, we hope to carry that growth with us, spreading what we have learnt into the wider world to help others bloom too.”

Tianney: “Bloom means many things and the concept is constantly changing as I change. It visually represents blossoming into the best version of yourself, but just like flowers, we all grow in different ways, in different seasons and we all require different types of nurturing to grow.”

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What matters most to you about being a leader?

Summer: “What matters most to me about being a leader is making people feel seen and valued within our school community. I believe leadership is about being considerate of others and creating a space where everyone feels confident to share their ideas.”

Tam: “To me, the greatest sense of recognition and reward comes from knowing the positive impact you have made on someone’s experience, as well as the meaningful connections that can grow from even a single interaction. By approaching leadership with a service-driven mindset, I have found the role incredibly enriching, as it has opened my eyes to the capacity we all have to create meaningful change and positively influence others through service."

What would you say to younger students about finding their own leadership voice?

Tianney: “It’s all in the little things! I’d first tell them to acknowledge that their leadership voice shows up in many ways, not just verbally. I’d advise younger students to identify what their core values are, really question what you feel passionate about.”

Summer: “Take every opportunity that is within your reach.

The experiences I have been fortunate enough to be part of including school camps, Sony Camp and Round Square service trips, have pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped shape not only myself as a leader, but as an individual.”

What key messages did you take away from the School Leadership Conference?

Tam: "Meeting and working with so many like-minded individuals from across Australia, New Zealand, and Zimbabwe gave me deep insight into what it means to be not just a leader, but a female leader, and the positive change one can create.”

Tianney: “A key takeaway for me was realising that everyone has a life as vivid, complex and chaotic as my own… it reminded me how important empathy and connection are when working with others.”

What’s something interesting that people might not know about you?

Tianney: “I am super passionate about business, marketing and advertising and I have created a T-shirt business inspired by my grandma. It began as my AIF project, and I’ve continued to work on it ever since.”

Summer: “Something people might not know about me is that I have a strong love for running and fitness. Last year I completed my first half marathon, which was an incredibly rewarding achievement and sparked my motivation to continue challenging myself through future running and fitness events.”

Tam: “Something interesting about me is that I love travelling and expanding my understanding of different cultures. After participating in an independent exchange to Tokyo, Japan in 2024… I developed a passion for global learning and cultural immersion.”

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

TRUE TO THEIR OWN PATH

OLIVIA TALLENT

EMILY PORTER

Class of 2022

Class of 2021

What have you been doing since finishing school, and where has it taken you so far?

What have you been doing since finishing school, and where has it taken you so far?

I studied at the University of Melbourne, completing a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Finance and Economics, during which I attended Ormond (residential) College. This year, I am beginning a job in investment banking in Sydney, working for an Australian firm, ‘Barrenjoey’.

I deferred an offer at Flinders University to take a gap year to work and travel, which led to me joining the Australian Army as an artillery operator. I did three months of basic training in Wagga Wagga, which involved learning weapons systems, navigation, radios and how to be a soldier, followed by more specific training. I was then posted to Darwin, where I spent the rest of my gap year working within the artillery regiment.

Did your pathway after Wilderness unfold as you expected or did it take some unexpected turns?

Whilst I always intended to attend an interstate university after graduation, I did not expect the college I attended to form such a large part of my new life in Melbourne. Ormond College was much more than a place to stay. In my third year, I was elected Chair of the College, where I oversaw the operations of the 500-person student club. I have met some of my closest friends at college, had some of my fondest memories, and cannot recommend it enough.

How has your sense of self evolved since leaving school?

Having moved away from home to a new environment, I have become significantly more independent and open-minded.

Living in shared accommodation has exposed me to new experiences, which in turn has prompted me to evaluate what my passions are and what is important to me.

What would you say to a current Wilderness student thinking about life after school?

I would strongly encourage all students to be uncomfortable in the immediate years after school. It is the ideal time to try new experiences and put yourself out there. It can be tempting to stick to what you know from school, whether that be your passions, friends, location or study. However, there is so much to gain from leaving that safety and throwing yourself into an entirely new experience.

At the end of my gap year, I accepted the original offer in Adelaide to study paramedicine. I realised I missed the challenge and the people from the Army, so I started serving within a reserve unit in Adelaide as a drone operator.

During this time, I realised that a career in paramedics was not suited to me. So, after finishing that degree, I began a Bachelor of Veterinary Bioscience at Adelaide University.

I work at a local veterinary clinic and as a drone operator in the reserves while studying.

Did your pathway after Wilderness unfold as you expected or did it take some unexpected turns?

Definitely not. I thought I would go straight to university, complete a degree and start working. I didn’t see the Army as a career that I would ever be suited to, but after applying impulsively and completing the application process, I found myself with an offer to start straight after Year 12.

I decided to take this opportunity, even though it scared me, and six months later I was living alone and working in Darwin with a group of people I had never met before.

What would you say to a current Wilderness student thinking about life after school?

I would say that there is no right path to take after school and that it’s okay to change your mind as many times as you need to find something that you like doing.

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As the Class of 2025 takes their next steps into the wider world, we look to those who have recently done the same. Our young Old Scholars are forging their own paths beyond Wilderness, each shaped by new experiences, challenges and opportunities. In this series, they reflect on where life has taken them and what they’ve learned along the way.

To read more of our Old Scholar profiles, please visit our website.

HANNAH GOUGH Class of 2020

What have you been doing since finishing school, and where has it taken you so far?

What would you say to a current Wilderness student thinking about life after school?

After graduating from Wilderness in 2020, I moved to the United States to study and play lacrosse at a small liberal arts college in Southern California called Pomona College.

I majored in International Relations and Economics, completing theses in both disciplines.

My biggest takeaway is to keep an open mind, try everything, and say yes even when it feels scary.

I played lacrosse throughout my four years, helping lead my team to four SCIAC conference championships, two Elite Eight appearances, and two Sweet Sixteen appearances in the national championship tournament. In my senior year, I was named an All-American athlete.

During my time at Pomona, I also studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I spent six months exploring Scandinavia and wider Europe. I later interned at a private equity firm in Los Angeles before taking a role at a start-up in San Francisco, where I lived until February 2026.

Recently, I moved back to Adelaide after being named in the Lacrosse Australia National Training Squad as part of preparations for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. I am currently working two part-time jobs while training full-time, and I’m also coaching with the Wilderness Lacrosse Club. I’m really excited to give back to the community that first sparked and nurtured my love for the sport.

Did your pathway after Wilderness unfold as you expected or did it take some unexpected turns?

My pathway after Wilderness has taken many weird and wonderful turns. Although I always knew I wanted to move to the United States to attend college, I approached the experience with an open mind and a 'say yes' attitude.

Where I have ended up now is definitely not what I expected, particularly moving back to Adelaide for the opportunity to trial for the Olympics. I’m not sure how long I’ll stay in Adelaide, but for now it feels like the right place to be.

It can seem risky to try something different or put yourself out there, but what if it works out? Being true to yourself and trusting your instincts is incredibly important, especially when the path ahead feels uncertain.

In what ways did your time at Wilderness help prepare you for life after school?

Wilderness taught me many important skills, including organisation and the ability to manage multiple priorities at once. It also helped me learn how to handle pressure and criticism, what it means to work hard to achieve the results you want, and why it is so important to believe in yourself.

How did Wilderness encourage you to explore your interests?

During my time at Wilderness, I pursued nearly every opportunity available to me. I was involved in music, sport, and debating, while also travelling on a number of school tours to places such as Nepal, China and Europe.

The chance to explore not only different hobbies and interests, but also the world more broadly, helped build my sense of global curiosity and my desire to continue exploring.

How would you describe the impact of Wilderness on your journey so far?

Wilderness instilled in me the confidence to take risks and trust my judgement, which has been pivotal in my willingness to say yes to so many different opportunities.

The ability to explore a wide range of interests, and parts of the world, during my time at school helped shape my curiosity and openness, traits that have defined much of my experience since graduating.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

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LEARNING LEADERSHIP THROUGH ACTION

In the Junior School, our Year 6 girls are stepping into a new chapter of leadership, one grounded not in titles, but in purpose.

This year, Wilderness has introduced a Junior School Student Parliament, an intentional model designed to deepen learning, strengthen student voice and connect classroom learning to real-world experience.

Rather than learning about civics and citizenship in theory alone, the girls are actively engaging with it. Through campaigning, voting, representation and regular cabinet-style meetings, they are not simply learning about democracy, they are practising it.

The structure mirrors elements of the South Australian parliamentary system, with roles including Premier, Deputy Premier and a range of ministerial portfolios such as Minister for Community and Belonging, Minister for Library and Literature and Minister for Reception to Year 2. Each role carries real responsibility within the life of the Junior School.

As Head of Junior School Liz McCarthy explains, the model is designed to ensure leadership is both meaningful and outward-facing.

“Within the Australian Curriculum, Civics and Citizenship is an important area of study. Year 6 Student Parliament allows our girls to experience democratic processes firsthand.”

At its core is a clear understanding of leadership as service.

“From the moment girls nominate themselves, they are learning that true leadership is about contribution, not position.

“Our girls are discovering that they do not need to wait until adulthood to contribute something valuable to their community. They have ideas, perspectives and leadership capacity now.”

Importantly, the model reinforces the power of agency.

When students are given the structure and opportunity to contribute meaningfully, their confidence grows, their sense of responsibility deepens and they begin to see themselves not just as students, but as contributors to a community.

The experience is already shaping how students see leadership in their own lives.

“I believe that the most important aspect of leadership is walking together, not in front or behind...”

SEMESTER 1 PREMIER, LOLA HOFFMANN

Semester 1 Deputy Premier Bou Prowse emphasised the importance of character: “I believe the most important aspect of leadership is being someone to look up to, to be an approachable person and make a positive difference,” Bou said.

The girls have continued to deepen their understanding through visits to the South Australian Parliament and Federal Parliament in Canberra, bringing their learning to life beyond the classroom.

As Principal Belinda Arnfield notes, experiences such as this play an important role in shaping confident and engaged young citizens.

“These experiences deepen students’ understanding of democratic processes and the responsibilities that come with leadership,” Ms Arnfield said.

Grounded in Wilderness values of curiosity, courage, responsibility and kindness, the Student Parliament reflects a simple but powerful idea: leadership is not something to wait for, but something to practise, together.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

RECENT EVENTS

2026 WELCOME ASSEMBLY The 2026 Welcome Assembly marked a joyful return to campus as we officially welcomed students back for the year ahead.

Led with confidence by SRC leaders Summer Bishop, Tam Do and Tianney Hong, the assembly featured inspiring reflections from 2025 Dux recipients Niya Singhal and Sonali Jesudason, along with the presentation of Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

It was a fitting beginning to the school year, celebrating achievement, leadership and community.

YEAR 12 DEDICATION SERVICE The Year 12 Dedication Service recognised the significant role senior students play in the life of the School.

As badges were presented, the service affirmed the values of trust and shared responsibility that underpin the Wilderness community.

It was a chance to acknowledge the leadership of the Year 12 cohort and the example they set for younger students.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL BADGE PRESENTATION Middle School leaders were formally presented with their badges, marking the beginning of their leadership journey for the year.

Head of Middle School, Dr Rhiannon Giles, spoke about the importance of perseverance and dedication, sharing a reflection from Winter Olympian Steven Bradbury on the value of sustained effort over time.

Families joined the celebration, with a morning tea following the assembly, creating a meaningful opportunity to acknowledge leadership within the community.

INTERNATIONAL DAY International Day celebrated the rich cultural diversity of the Wilderness community.

This year’s event coincided with several significant cultural celebrations, including Lunar New Year, Italy’s Carnevale Festival and the beginning of Ramadan. The day offered an opportunity to reflect on traditions of renewal, family and cultural connection.

WELCOME BACK HOUSE BREAKFASTS The annual Welcome Back House Breakfasts once again provided a warm and engaging start to the school year.

Middle and Senior School students gathered in their House groups to share breakfast and conversation, strengthening connections and House spirit. These occasions play an important role in fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring every student feels connected and supported from the outset.

The International Committee curated a special lunchtime event featuring a diverse menu of global cuisines, bringing girls together to share in and appreciate cultures from around the world.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

YEAR 6 LEADERSHIP PRESENTATION CEREMONY At Wilderness, leadership in Year 6 is shared by all students, with each girl contributing to the life of the Junior School through responsibility, kindness and service.

Through the Student Parliament Leadership Model, inspired by the South Australian State Parliament, students engage in a practical and collaborative approach to leadership. By electing representatives, taking on ministerial roles and participating in Cabinet-style meetings, they develop an understanding of leadership as active participation and shared responsibility.

Grounded in the School’s values of curiosity, courage, responsibility and kindness, the program reflects a strong commitment to voice and service.

GROOVES ON THE GREEN Grooves on the Green brought our community together to celebrate music at Wilderness. On a warm, sunny evening, Memorial Lawn came alive with performances from our talented ensembles, bands and choirs, representing students from Junior through to Senior year levels.

The evening provided a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with families and friends gathering to enjoy the performances and support our students. It was a fitting showcase of the depth of talent within our music program and the vibrant culture that continues to flourish across the School.

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOL SWIMMING CARNIVAL The Middle and Senior School Swimming Carnival was a vibrant celebration of House spirit.

While Antholiza secured the overall points victory, the day was defined by the enthusiasm and encouragement displayed by all. Students demonstrated courage, teamwork and pride, with participation and support proving just as meaningful as competitive success.

The event was supported by outstanding leadership from House and Sport Captains, alongside the dedication of Heads of House and the Sport team.

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YEAR 11 AND 12 FORMAL The Golden Age of Glamour Formal, held on Friday 30 January 2026 at the Panorama Ballroom, Adelaide Convention Centre, was a memorable start to the year for our Year 11 and 12 girls.

Students, their partners and teachers came together for a much-anticipated evening. The black, gold and white theme set a tone of understated elegance, with a buffet dinner, DJ and a full dance floor keeping the energy high throughout the night.

Thank you to Year 12 representative, Leila Thirlwell, and the Formal Committee for their organisation.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

FACULTY IN FOCUS

SPORT

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Sport at Wilderness is about participation first.

That is the starting point for everything we do.

Our Sport and Recreation program is designed to give girls choice. There is a wide range of opportunities available, and importantly, girls are not limited to just one option in a season. They can try different activities and find what they enjoy, at their own pace and at their own level.

Opportunities at every stage

We are supported by a team of dedicated teachers and coaches who are passionate about using a student-centred approach to all programs and sessions. This ensures our girls are having all facets of their learning and engagement catered to.

This includes wellbeing, inclusion, education and performance. When girls feel supported and valued, they are more likely to get involved and stay involved. That is reflected in the strong participation we see right across the School from Reception to Year 12.

In Years 3 to 6, the range expands to include cricket, tennis, hockey, soccer, Australian Rules football, netball, basketball, touch football, volleyball and lacrosse.

What makes our program unique

In a position like mine I am so lucky to experience many highlights with our dedicated and passionate girls at Wilderness. We have experienced premierships in IGSSA and Catholic Ed competitions, State Championships in School Sport SA competitions and Head of the River victories with our rowers.

One of the strengths of sport at Wilderness is the breadth of opportunities available. Our girls compete across a number of competitions, including School Sport SA, SAPSASA, IGSSA and Catholic Education. This gives them exposure to different levels of competition and a variety of experiences.

We also offer interstate opportunities, which are incredibly valuable.

Travelling as a team builds confidence in a different environment.

Our Lacrosse program is something quite special. We are one of the only schools in South Australia to enter teams in the Lacrosse SA club competition. It provides a unique pathway for girls and is an important part of our sporting culture.

Our Junior School programs are unique in that we offer optional entrylevel programs for all sports to build confidence before girls move into match competitions. This helps create a positive first experience of sport and encourages long-term involvement.

From the earliest years, girls are introduced to sport through a range of activities designed to build confidence and enjoyment. In Reception to Year 2, this includes multi-sport clinics, gymnastics, Auskick, Net Set Go, Hotshots Tennis and lacrosse.

In Years 7 to 12, girls have access to an even broader program, including rowing, water polo, badminton and bouldering, alongside the core team sports. There are both competitive and recreational options, so every girl can find a way to be involved.

Highlights across the program

The amazing experiences and community feel at our Intercol events and Inter-House Carnivals certainly put our girls' enthusiasm and school values on full display.

The introduction of recreational bouldering has also been a highlight.

It has given girls who are looking for a non-competitive option another way to be active and involved.

For me, the best part of this role is seeing so many girls engaged in different ways, building confidence, trying new things and enjoying being part of something bigger than themselves. That is what sport at Wilderness is all about.

Jonathon Koutsikas Director of Sport and Recreation

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN Wilderness School is home to an exceptional group of Australian Rules footballers, with seven students currently competing at SANFLW level across North Adelaide Football Club and Norwood Football Club.

Several are expected to play League this season, just below AFL Women's standard, and five have been selected in the South Australian Under 18 Girls Football Academy. For a girls’ school, this level of representation is rare and reflects both the talent of the group and the strength of the environment around them.

Among them are Year 12 students Caitlin Hardin, Iris Newman, Maya Fuller, Isabella Beaumont, Annie McMullen and Sharmaine Crosby, alongside Year 9 student Amelia Duncan. With a number of these students in their final year, including three boarders, their journey speaks to discipline, balance and ambition.

For Iris Newman, managing football and school has shaped her understanding of balance.

“Balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly, but about prioritising what matters in the moment.”

Sharmaine Crosby said elite football had taught her the importance of organisation, perspective and strong support networks.

“By focusing on daily habits and asking for help when needed, I aim to pursue my draft ambitions while building a strong foundation for life beyond football.”

Student Wellbeing Coordinator, Years 7–12, Andrew Mittiga said the School is proud to support students striving for excellence in the classroom and sporting arena.

“The relationship and continuity of care between students and their key pastoral contacts are critical to ensure we support girls pursuing elite sporting pathways while balancing their academic loads.”

Senior Head Coach Brad Snell said the students’ achievements were significant for both the girls and the sporting culture of the School.

“They set a strong example for younger students and show what can be achieved through discipline, consistency and commitment.”

Wilderness has also seen recent success beyond school, with Old Scholar Sachi Sym (2022), drafted to Port Adelaide Football Club, offering a strong example for current students as they pursue their own pathways.

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HEAD OF THE RIVER 2026 The 2026 Head of the River was held in warm, sunny conditions, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable day of racing as Wilderness crews closed the rowing season on a high.

A vibrant atmosphere filled West Lakes, with strong support lining the course and a clear sense of camaraderie among crews, coaches and spectators. After months of early mornings, rigorous training and dedicated preparation, our rowers took to the water with determination and pride.

The regatta delivered a series of outstanding results, highlighted by an exceptional performance from the Senior Girls 1st IV, who claimed gold, our first in this event in 27 years. It was a remarkable achievement and a testament to the crew’s commitment and teamwork throughout the season.

Our Year 7/8 crews also enjoyed extraordinary success, demonstrating both depth and strength across the program.

Multiple crews achieved podium finishes, including an impressive series of gold medals: • SG Year 7/8 4x+ A – Gold • SG Year 7/8 4x+ B – Gold • SG Year 7/8 4x+ C – Gold • SG Year 7/8 4x+ E – Gold Further strong performances saw additional crews secure silver medals: • SG Year 7/8 4x+ D – Silver • SG Year 7/8 4x+ F – Silver

A particularly special moment came with the Year 7/8 4x+ C crew winning the prestigious Margaret Brown Cup. Named after one of Wilderness School’s founding sisters and presented by Principal Belinda Arnfield, it was a proud occasion to see this historic trophy return home to Wilderness.

The day was a celebration not only of results, but of the dedication shown by all involved. Each crew demonstrated the values of teamwork, resilience and commitment that underpin the Wilderness rowing program.

Thank you to our rowing coaches and our dedicated Rowing Committee led

by Nic Cox for their support throughout the season.

Andrej Pistotnik Director of Rowing

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS Leading education scholar Linda Darling-Hammond (2010) argues that “the most powerful strategy for improving teaching and learning is developing the knowledge and skills of teachers”.

This belief underpins our approach to professional learning at Wilderness School. Alongside our internal programs, visiting experts and interstate collaborations, we deliberately invest in opportunities that take our educators beyond our campus, connecting them with leading thinking and practice in education.

This commitment ensures our teachers remain part of a global conversation.

They return with fresh insight, new perspectives and renewed energy, enriching both classroom practice and professional conversations. As a School committed to remaining at the forefront of girls’ education, we know that staying connected to contemporary research and practice, locally, nationally and internationally, is essential.

Catherine Ye Fellowship recipients, Kieran Jackson and Andrew Mittiga.

Throughout 2025, Wilderness educators participated in a diverse range of conferences and professional learning experiences. At the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Liana Rossi and I presented on capabilities learning, sharing the innovative work we are leading through our bespoke Artemis curriculum.

Staff also attended The Matter of Translation Conference in Brisbane, engaged with Cultures of Thinking at Bialik College in Victoria, participated in the ACEL Middle Leaders’ Summit in Queensland, and joined the Leading School Excellence Masterclass with Dylan Wiliam in Adelaide. These opportunities, alongside sessions focused on SACE subject renewal, artificial intelligence, and emerging educational technologies, contribute to the high calibre of our teachers, who remain closely connected to evidenceinformed practice and the evolving global conversation about high-quality teaching.

Each year, Wilderness proudly offers the Catherine Ye Fellowship, a scholarship designed to support targeted professional growth for our teachers. In 2026, Andrew Mittiga and Kieran Jackson have been awarded the fellowship. Through this opportunity, they will explore how we can strengthen the transition between Junior and Middle School, drawing on insights from Harvard’s Project Zero to inform and enrich our approach at Wilderness.

In March, a group of six teachers attended the ResearchED conference in Ballarat, Victoria. With its focus on bridging the gap between educational research and classroom practice, ResearchED aligns closely with our school-wide commitment to instructional responsiveness. The knowledge gained from this conference will support these teachers to deepen their understanding of evidenceinformed instruction and enable them to lead professional learning in this area within our School.

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Looking ahead, we are also developing a unique international professional learning opportunity through a partnership with Gateway College Colombo in Sri Lanka. Gateway College is the only school in Sri Lanka delivering the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Creating a meaningful connection between our two educational sites supports our approach to investing in worldwide educational perspectivebuilding. In August 2026, two Gateway College teachers will visit Wilderness, followed by a teaching exchange in January 2027, when Liam Sloan and Angela Sciberras-Xiong will travel to Sri Lanka. These experiences will strengthen professional networks, foster cross-cultural understanding, and bring valuable international insights into our classrooms.

Professional learning at Wilderness is grounded in a deep commitment to excellence. If we aspire to be a world leader in education, our teachers must remain connected to the strongest research, the most effective instructional practices, and the most innovative thinking shaping education globally. As Andy Hargreaves reminds us, “the quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers” (Hargreaves & Fullan, 2012). By investing in our educators and supporting significant external professional learning opportunities, we ensure our students continue to benefit from teaching of the highest calibre.

Brad Snell Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching References Darling-Hammond, L. (2010). The flat world and education: How America’s commitment to equity will determine our future. Teachers College Press.

Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., & Gardner, M. (2017). Effective teacher professional development. Learning Policy Institute.

Hargreaves, A., & Fullan, M. (2012). Professional capital: Transforming teaching in every school.

Teachers College Press.

Timperley, H. (2011). Realising the power of professional learning. Open University Press.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

DRAMA EXCURSIONS AND INCURSIONS:

LEARNING THROUGH LIVE THEATRE

Term 1 has been a vibrant and inspiring start to the year for our Drama students, with every cohort from Years 7–12 experiencing professional live theatre.

These excursions and incursions are an important part of the Drama program at Wilderness School, as they allow students to engage with theatre beyond the classroom, witnessing the craft, discipline and creativity of professional artists while connecting these experiences directly to their own learning.

We began the term by hosting performer and theatre-maker Andrew Crupi, who presented his solo work A Servant for All Masters to our Year 7 and Year 9 Drama students. The performance draws on the lively traditions of Commedia dell’Arte, bringing a range of classic stock characters to life through highly skilled physical comedy, character transformation and playful audience interaction. Students were captivated by Crupi’s ability to move seamlessly between characters while maintaining the exaggerated physical style that defines Commedia. Following the performance, our Year 9 students participated in a Commedia masterclass, where they explored the physicality, timing and character work required to embody these largerthan-life figures.

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Our Year 8 and 12 Drama students attended The Childhood of the World by Slingsby Presents, hosted at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens as part of the Adelaide Festival. This beautifully staged performance blended storytelling, sound and striking visual imagery to explore humanity’s deep relationship with nature. The immersive setting allowed students to experience how space, environment and design can transform the theatrical experience for an audience and shape the way stories are told.

Senior Drama students attended two additional Adelaide Festival productions. POV by re:group performance collective was a bold and contemporary work that experimented with narrative perspective, inviting audiences to reconsider how stories are framed and whose voices are heard. In contrast, The Cherry Orchard, presented by LG Arts Centre, offered a visually rich interpretation of Anton Chekhov’s classic play, exploring themes of social change, memory and loss through nuanced performance and elegant staging.

The benefits of attending live professional theatre are layered. Students share in the experience of being an audience member and take part in the complex processes

involved when we collectively engage with theatre, developing visual literacy, responding kinaesthetically to performance, laughing together and experiencing moments of awe and wonder. These experiences also become powerful learning tools. Students critically analyse the work they see, connecting it to their own study of theatrical style, dramatic elements and the relationship between an audience and a performance.

Through discussion and written responses, students unpacked the productions they viewed. Our Year 12 students will extend this analysis further, developing comparative responses to explore how specific staging, stylistic and narrative choices shape the way audiences process and connect to story. As Year 12 student Sophie Proudman reflected, “It was an enlightening opportunity to be immersed in the world of professional theatre.”

Jessica Foster Head of Drama

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

OVERSEAS OPPORTUNITIES MODEL UNITED NATIONS IN SOUTH KOREA

In January, a group of Wilderness students travelled to South Korea to take part in the Cheongshim International Academy Model United Nations Conference as part of Round Square.

The conference served as an immersive experience in global diplomacy, collaboration and critical thinking.

The week-long program began in Seoul, where students explored the city’s blend of tradition and modernity, visiting Hanok Village and experiencing Korean culture before travelling to Gapyeong for the conference.

Across three days of Model United Nations, students worked as delegates within a range of mock committees, including the World Health Organization, Security Council and Economic and Social Council. Through debate, negotiation and resolution writing, they engaged with complex global issues, developing skills in communication, collaboration and leadership.

Following the conference, the group returned to Seoul to further explore the city, including visits to Seongsu and the Starfield COEX Mall, rounding out a rich cultural and educational experience.

Reflecting on the experience, Jessica Mah shared:

“A highlight for me was collaborating with delegates from different countries and engaging in thoughtful debate, which challenged me to think more critically and confidently. One of my key takeaways from the conference was the importance of diplomacy, adaptability, and clear communication when working to resolve complex global issues.”

Experiences such as these offer students the opportunity to step beyond the classroom, building global awareness and confidence while forming connections that extend far beyond the conference.

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JAPAN SNOW TOUR During the summer holidays, 35 students and six staff set off on the 2026 Wilderness Snow Tour to Japan, a 12-day journey of snow, culture and unforgettable experiences.

From the vibrant streets of Tokyo’s Harajuku district to the immersive art of TeamLabs and the excitement of childhood dreams at DisneySea, the girls approached every new experience with enthusiasm. Whether navigating a bustling city and train systems, trying traditional Japanese foods, or discovering the wonders of the theme park, they embraced all of the experiences with curiosity.

In Hakuba, many students saw snow for the first time.

With the support of skilled instructors, they learned to ski, cheered each other on, and celebrated small victories on the slopes. The opportunity to ski together, improve each day, and enjoy the stunning alpine environment quickly became a highlight of the tour. The laughter and shared effort reflected their growing confidence and resilience, and a genuine appreciation for their peers.

The trip also offered rich cultural experiences, from observing snow monkeys in their natural habitat to exploring the hot spring village of Nozawa Onsen. The girls approached these encounters with openness and respect, building connections with local traditions and people that went beyond sightseeing. Evenings were spent sharing meals together, with students enjoying both traditional Japanese cuisine at local restaurants and a variety of dishes at the hotel. Throughout the trip, they were struck by the warmth shown by people everywhere they travelled, further inspiring gratitude and connection.

Students expressed their gratitude to the teachers who supported the experience, and who worked behind the scenes to make the tour possible. The adventure, challenges and shared experiences created lasting memories and strengthened the sense of community among the group.

Lauren Walker Head of Outdoor Education

“What I enjoyed the most was learning how to ski and building my confidence on the slopes, exploring Tokyo and experiencing a different culture by trying new food, walking around Nozawa Onsen and meeting new people.” – PAIGE BISHOP

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

RECENT EVENTS PARENTS AND FRIENDS

P&F WELCOME EVENING The Parents and Friends Welcome Evening offered a lovely opportunity to come together at the beginning of the 2026 school year.

Parents, staff and friends gathered to reconnect, meet new members of the community and enjoy a relaxed evening of conversation over canapés and refreshments.

It was a pleasure to see both familiar and new faces connecting so easily, reflecting the strong sense of community that defines Wilderness.

We extend our thanks to all who joined us and contributed to such a positive and welcoming start to the year. We also acknowledge the Old Scholars’ Jazz Choir and Choral Director Joanna Tropeano for their performance, along with the Parents and Friends Association, led by President Jen Guest, and all those who supported the evening behind the scenes.

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BOARDER PARENT WEEKEND IN THE RIVERLAND Our boarding community was delighted to come together once again for the annual Boarder Parent Weekend, this year set against the stunning backdrop of South Australia’s Riverland.

A highlight on the boarding calendar, the weekend offers an opportunity for parents and staff to connect, strengthening the sense of partnership that underpins the boarding experience. It is also a chance to pause, share experiences and celebrate the community that supports our students.

We were pleased to welcome a strong group of boarding parents from across year levels, along with Wilderness staff including Belinda Arnfield, Emma Searle, Kate Hanson and myself, all contributing to the relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Festivities began on Friday evening with a casual dinner at the Renmark Club, where conversations flowed easily and connections were quickly formed and renewed. The launch of the River Redgum Challenge set the tone for the weekend, with parents forming teams and embracing a series of light-hearted activities filled with good humour and friendly competition.

Saturday offered a blend of relaxation and shared experience, beginning with a leisurely cruise along the Murray River. The beauty and tranquillity of the river provided the perfect setting to slow the pace and enjoy time together. Lunch followed at Woolshed Brewery, a

character-filled old wool store on the riverbank, with a gourmet BBQ catered by Salt & Pepper.

In the evening, the group gathered at 23rd St Distillery, where a delicious meal and signature cocktails were enjoyed in a vibrant setting. The announcement of the River Redgum Challenge winners brought a celebratory close to the day, with conversation continuing well into the evening.

Weekends such as this play an important role in nurturing strong relationships between families and the boarding house. These connections help create a supportive, cohesive environment in which our students can thrive.

My sincere thanks to all boarding parents who attended and contributed so positively to the spirit of the weekend, and to the staff whose presence and support made the event such a success. Special thanks to Kerrie and James Robertson for organising the weekend and showcasing this remarkable region, and to Boarder Parents Group Chair, Brooke Stockman, for initiating the River Redgum Challenge, which brought great energy and enjoyment across the weekend.

We look forward to continuing this much-loved tradition next year on the Yorke Peninsula.

Carolyn Matthews Head of Boarding

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

OLD SCHOLARS' JAZZ CHOIR The Wilderness Old Scholars' Jazz Choir brings together former members of the School’s premier auditioned ensemble in a multi-generational group united by a shared love of music. Since its formation in 2020, the choir has created opportunities for Old Scholars to reconnect, perform at an exceptional standard and build a strong sense of community beyond the School gates.

Now 23 members strong, the choir rehearses weekly during term, coming together for two-hour sessions that are as much about connection as they are about craft. The ensemble performs regularly at key Wilderness events including the Annual Music Concert, Advent Service at St Peter’s Cathedral and milestone celebrations such as the 140 Year Gala.

In recent years, the choir has extended its reach into the wider community, performing in vibrant public settings such as the Adelaide Central Market and the Adelaide Fringe Festival alongside Gospo Collective. Most recently, they were awarded first place at the 2025 Adelaide Eisteddfod, marking an exciting new chapter for the ensemble.

Across rehearsals and performances, the Old Scholars' Jazz Choir offers something rare: a continuation of shared experience, grounded in music and sustained by connection.

It is a reminder that at Wilderness, learning and belonging do not end at Year 12; they continue, in harmony.

We spoke with Choir Director Joanna Tropeano about what makes this group so special.

What has drawn you to direct the Old Scholars' Jazz Choir, and what keeps you involved?

“The relationships I have been able to build with each Choir cohort over the last 22 years have all been special to me… to be able to reignite that connection with a whole variety of students fills me with so much happiness and a strong sense of accomplishment.

“My continued involvement is solidified when I see that same happiness transfer to the OSJC members themselves… not only in performance, but each week as they grow, learn and create such an exceptional sound.

“Knowing that many are returning to music after a hiatus adds an extra layer of fulfilment and joy as a director.”

How would you describe the culture or spirit of the choir?

“We are foremost a community of women who empower each other. Despite some members being 15 or 16 years apart, there is a true sense of sisterhood. We celebrate each other’s wins, stand by each other when times are tough and ultimately create a ‘family’ through music.”

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In what ways do you see Wilderness values reflected in the group?

“We create a safe space of kindness, respect, acceptance and responsibility to and for each other. For example, one of our members is a new mother with a delightful baby boy. Both attend rehearsals and we welcome them with open arms and a true willingness to support her in this new journey.

“These women are working nine to five jobs, studying incredibly difficult degrees, parenting… and yet they turn up for rehearsal despite their limitations and ‘dig in’ to learn music and collaborate as a team. That they take the time and make the effort to present their work at every event they are invited to be a part of is to be applauded.”

What do you hope the choir continues to be into the future?

“I hope that they continue as they are now — joyous in their learning, resilient in their determination and loyal to our school and its values.

“I hope it remains a place people can return to when life allows, and where graduating members know they will find another family through music."

“For me, this has meant the absolute world to have this connection each week. It has meant building friendships and sharing work and life struggles whilst creating music. I think this is what makes the music so good.”

GEORGIA GOSSE (2015)

“The OSJC allows me to continue my involvement with the music community at Wilderness in a meaningful way beyond graduation.

It enables me to regularly engage with Wilderness culture and continue something I enjoyed as a student.”

OLIVIA KYRIACOU (2022)

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

WILDERNESS WOMEN

LEADING THE WAY JOANNE CYS Class of 1985 Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Adelaide University

What is your most significant career highlight?

The creation of the new Adelaide University is unprecedented globally in terms of scale and vision. It’s been a once in a career — and likely once in a lifetime — opportunity. I am incredibly proud of the work we undertook to create the new university, and now as its Provost and Deputy ViceChancellor, to be a senior leader of a university that has a clear and stated purpose to first and foremost benefit South Australia, and ultimately the nation, and beyond.

Where has your journey since leaving Wilderness led you?

I completed degrees at both The University of Adelaide (Bachelor of Arts) and the University of South Australia (Bachelor of Interior Design) before working in architectural practice, mostly specialising in the design of healthcare, education and corporate interiors.

Did your pathway after Wilderness unfold as you expected, or did it take some unexpected turns?

While I was working in architecture, I decided to go back to university part-time to complete a Master of Architecture degree. Following that, I was invited to apply for a lecturer position at the University of South Australia. I thought it would be a good opportunity to take a break from practice for a while and ‘give something back’ to the university sector that, by that stage, had enabled me to attain three degrees. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed teaching and researching and pleased that I could continue to contribute to the design profession nationally and internationally — including becoming National President of the Design Institute of Australia and executive board member of the Federation of Interior Architects/Designers. So, I never returned to design practice — I started as a lecturer and now I am the Provost — what a journey!

What Wilderness value has stayed with you?

I have been reflecting on this quite a bit recently since our 40-year (!!) class of 1985 reunion a couple of months ago.

Definitely ‘courage in the hour of strife’. As a senior leader I have had to lead teams through complex and demanding situations. Wilderness instilled in me the confidence to not shy away from challenge, and to find the right balance between independence and collaboration. Moreover, the Wildy values of service to others, and respect for others have helped shape me as a people-focused leader.

What is the most special or significant memory you have of your time at Wilderness?

Being elected as Amaryllis House Captain was such a surprise and honour. I can still remember the moment on the running track when the House Captains were announced for the upcoming year and how I felt — humbled, thrilled, and amazed that something like this could happen to me.

What would you say to a current Wilderness student thinking about life after school?

Always consider all options carefully so that you can avail yourself of opportunities that come your way. If opportunities don’t seem to be coming your way, plan and take action to position yourself so that they do.

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WOSA’s vision is to be a thriving, trusted community of Wilderness women, helping each other to live our best personal and professional lives.

REFLECTIONS FROM THE WOSA PRESIDENT As my role as President of WOSA comes to the end of its term, I have been reflecting on the benefits I have experienced leading our Old Scholars’ Association.

I have most enjoyed supporting and witnessing WOSA women connecting across generations through shared experiences, values, wisdom and evolving perspectives.

These intergenerational bonds are especially powerful when cultivated through events and community-building initiatives that celebrate legacy while embracing change.

Events serve as vibrant touchpoints for connection. From formal reunions and panel discussions to casual drinks, sporting teams and events like our quiz night, they create spaces where women of all ages can engage meaningfully.

Younger members gain access to lived wisdom – stories of resilience, career journeys and life lessons – while experienced Old Scholars are invigorated by the energy, innovation and fresh outlooks of our younger Old Scholars.

These exchanges foster mutual respect and a sense of continuity that strengthens the association’s identity. The interactions often lead to lasting friendships, professional collaborations and a stronger sense of belonging.

Importantly, intergenerational engagement helps preserve our WOSA memory while adapting to contemporary needs.

Experienced Old Scholars pass down stories and values, while younger Old Scholars introduce new ideas and technologies that keep the association relevant and dynamic.

By intentionally designing events that encourage crossgenerational participation and by nurturing a culture of inclusivity, WOSA is a thriving community of empowered women. These connections not only enrich individual lives but also ensure that the legacy of the institution continues to evolve with strength, grace and unity.

WOSA’s vision is to be a thriving, trusted community of Wilderness women, helping each other to live our best personal and professional lives. This community provides us all with an amazing network that we can lean into as we build our careers. We encourage you to stay actively engaged — a community only thrives through participation.

The WOSA Committee and the Old Scholars’ Engagement Coordinator at Wilderness work to coordinate events and provide services that aim to build and add value to our community. All Old Scholars are welcome to join the committee at the Annual General Meeting in June each year.

Danielle White President, Wilderness Old Scholars’ Association

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY Our School’s story has always been one of community. Built on the philanthropy of its founders, the Brown sisters, Wilderness has continued to shape generations of girls to be the best they can be throughout their lives.

From the earliest days, Old Scholars, families, and friends have shaped our identity through their generosity, involvement, and belief in the power of education for girls.

Today, our Old Scholars remain an essential part of this legacy. Through reunions, celebrations of achievement, and the many ways they stay connected, our Old Scholars remind us of the lifelong impact of a school built on philanthropy and shared values.

In this edition, we are proud to celebrate the successes of our Old Scholars, women who continue to lead, inspire, and contribute to their communities.

Just as importantly, we are deeply grateful to those who give back to the school through time, talent and support. Whether mentoring students, volunteering at events, or contributing to programs, scholarships and new opportunities, your generosity strengthens the experience of every girl who walks through our doors. Please see our 2024/2025 Impact of Giving Report enclosed with this issue.

As we look ahead, the 2026 Taxation Appeal offers a meaningful opportunity for our wider community to continue shaping the school’s future. Gifts to the Building Fund directly support the development and enhancement of our outstanding learning spaces that encourage curiosity, collaboration and excellence. These facilities are more than buildings; they are environments where girls discover their passions and teachers bring learning to life.

Support for our Scholarship Fund ensures that talented students from all backgrounds can access the full breadth of opportunities our school provides, enriching our community and honouring the belief that potential should never be limited by circumstance.

For those wishing to leave a lasting legacy, the Green Door Society offers the opportunity to make a bequest to the school. Such gifts secure long-term stability and create opportunities for generations to come.

Together, through philanthropy and generosity, we continue the tradition that built our school and ensure its strength well into the future.

Lisa Taplin Head of Advancement

MAKE A DIFFERENCE Transform the School environment Gifts to the Foundation's Building Fund will support the transformation of the campus, ensuring Wilderness continues to provide a learning environment that allows our students to innovate, be inspired and adapt to an everchanging world.

If you are inspired to make a difference, we would be pleased to hear from you.

To give: wilderness.com.au/giving-at-wilderness advadmin@wilderness.com.au (08) 8343 1088

Provide a life-changing gift Gifts to the Scholarship Fund will provide opportunities for students who may not have the opportunity to attend Wilderness, whilst adding to the fabric of our School community.

Gifts in Will A gift in a Will to the Wilderness Foundation is an enduring way to support the School's future. Every bequest, no matter the size, will make a difference. Those who choose to leave a gift are invited to join the Green Door Society.

Giving at Wilderness

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Give to the future

2026 Taxation Appeal

As a community, we share a deep commitment to ensuring that every girl at Wilderness has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

We are grateful for the generosity that continues to shape Wilderness and warmly invite your support.

Our 2026 Taxation Appeal, Give to the Future, supports two key areas of the School: the Building Fund and the Scholarship Fund.

Together, these funds help sustain the environments our girls learn in, and the opportunities that ensure more girls can be part of this community.

Support the Building Fund

Support the Scholarship Fund

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

STORIES FROM THE ARCHIVES

AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD Antarctica, remote and unforgiving, has inspired three Wilderness Old Scholars across generations. For Meredith Hooper, it was a place of history and human endeavour. For Dr Steph McLennan, it is a landscape of scientific discovery and global importance. And for Dr Rebecca Heah, Antarctica became the setting for one of the most physically and mentally demanding chapters in her quest to complete the Seven Summits challenge.

In different ways, their experiences reflect the curiosity and sense of purpose that begin at Wilderness.

Marg Keane School Archivist

MEREDITH HOOPER (ROONEY, 1956) Meredith Hooper recently died, aged 86, at her home in London. After attending Wilderness, she completed her undergraduate degree in History at the University of Adelaide, graduating with First Class Honours. A postgraduate scholarship took her to Oxford in 1961, where she completed a BPhil in Imperial History, first at Lady Margaret Hall and then at Nuffield College, where she was the first female graduate student. She met her husband, Richard Hooper, at Oxford.

They lived in London and had three children: Rachel, who reports on Parliament for the BBC; Tom, an Oscar-winning film director (The King’s Speech); and Ben, first a barrister and now a management consultant specialising in tech. It was Meredith who attended a play reading of The King’s Speech in London and persuaded Tom to make it as a feature film. She worked closely with him on his films.

She became a successful writer, publishing 58 titles, mostly for children but also for adults. Her books have been published around the world and translated into many languages, from Catalan to Korean. She wrote two plays for BBC Radio 4 about Antarctica, Kathleen & Con and Beyond Endurance, starring Dominic West, Sam West and Emilia Fox. In 2015, she curated a major exhibition at the Royal Geographical Society in London, Enduring Eye: the Antarctic legacy of Sir Ernest Shackleton and Frank Hurley. She won many prizes for her writing, including the Nettie Palmer Prize for Non-Fiction, Runner-Up Australian Children’s Book of the Year, and the English 4–11 Awards for Best Children’s Illustrated Books.

In 2000, she was awarded the Antarctica Service Medal by the United States Congress.

In 2014, she was named Australian of the Year in the UK, alongside Boris Johnson, Honorary Australian of the Year, and Steven McRae, Young Australian of the Year in the UK. Central to her life and her books was her love of Antarctica.

She had an affinity for the continent from a young age. In 1991, she wrote the children’s book A for Antarctica. It was then suggested she apply to the Australian Antarctic Division.

This led, in 1994–95, to a three-month stay in Antarctica with the Australians, researching and writing books. She later spent two summers with American scientists in Antarctica, having been selected for the US Antarctic Artists & Writers Program.

This led to her final book, The Ferocious Summer, which described the impact of climate change on the Adélie penguin. “Hooper has written a book that is unique among the wide-ranging literature of recent times. A delight to read… providing the human and scientific contexts of the research efforts and contribution to climate change science in a remarkably intimate manner.” Dr Eric Woehler, The Australian.

Meredith was a Visiting Scholar in Cambridge at Wolfson College and at the Scott Polar Research Institute. She was also a trustee of the Brussels-based International Polar Foundation and the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust.

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DR STEPH McLENNAN (2006) Dr Steph McLennan is currently the Director of Antarctic Geoscience at the national geological survey, Geoscience Australia, in Canberra. She leads a team of scientists advising government on onshore and marine Antarctic issues, including environmental management, seabed mapping for navigation and geopolitical matters. She has worked with the Australian Antarctic Program, conducting remote fieldwork throughout the Vestfold Hills in the Australian Antarctic Territory. Steph is also involved in research programs such as the Australian Research Council-funded Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF), supporting work on human impacts, past ice sheet behaviour and landscape evolution processes.

Steph attended the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) in Year 12 in 2006 and has continued to mentor NYSF students.

She studied at the University of Adelaide, graduating with a triple major in geology, geophysics and environmental geoscience, followed by Honours and a PhD. In 2019–20, she was named a Superstar of STEM, part of a cohort of 60 Australian women working to challenge gender stereotypes in STEM careers and act as visible role models for young girls. In 2021, she was awarded a Young Tall Poppy Science Award from the Australian Institute of Policy and Science.

Steph credits her teachers at Wilderness with instilling a sense of curiosity and high standards that have supported her throughout her career.

“Many of the tools and techniques we use to understand the Australian continent can also be applied to deepen our understanding of Antarctica.”

DR REBECCA HEAH (2006) "Antarctica was, without question, the most surreal and pristine landscape I encountered on my journey to complete the Seven Summits (Bass version), climbing the highest mountain on each continent. That journey ultimately culminated in summiting Mount Everest on 23 May 2023, but one of the most extraordinary chapters unfolded at the very end of the Earth.

Climbing Mount Vinson, in Antarctica, the continent’s highest peak at 4,892 metres, was unlike any other expedition I’d experienced. It felt like stepping onto another planet. After flying from Punta Arenas in Chile on a Russian Ilyushin plane to land on a blue-ice runway in the middle of nowhere, the sheer isolation of the white continent became immediately apparent.

There are no cities, no noise, no life beyond your team — just endless expanses of snow and ice stretching to the horizon.

My team and I spent three weeks on the mountain, moving slowly through a world of extremes. Temperatures plunged below –40°C, where even simple tasks became deliberate and methodical. The sun never set, circling endlessly in the sky and distorting any sense of time. Each day blended into the next as we hauled sleds, navigated crevasses, and inched our way higher towards the summit of Mount Vinson.

Despite its harshness, Antarctica held a rare kind of beauty.

It is so raw, untouched, and deeply humbling. There is something powerful about standing in a place so remote, knowing that very few people will ever experience it. On summit day, surrounded by an infinite white horizon, I felt an overwhelming sense of privilege.

Vinson was more than just another peak on the list. It was a reminder of why I began my journey of the Seven Summits challenge. In the silence of Antarctica, stripped of distractions, the purpose became clear: to push my limits, to embrace discomfort, and to experience the most extraordinary corners of our world."

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

2025-2026 GRADUATING REUNIONS AND EVENTS

YOUNG OLD SCHOLARS COCKTAIL EVENING Wednesday 18 February 2026

It was exciting to host the Young Old Scholars at School for our first 2026 reunion. This is an annual event for Old Scholars who have graduated from Wilderness within the past nine years.

Hosted in the courtyard of Margaret Brown House, our Old Scholar community were delighted to reconnect with the school, their senior teachers and each other on a warm February evening.

Over 50 Old Scholars gathered to enjoy canapés and cocktails provided by the Association while catching up with old friends and making new friends across the cohort. Everyone had a great time, with an impromptu tour of the Lower Junior School also included.

Danielle White (Caruso – 1995) Wilderness Old Scholars' Association President

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40 YEAR REUNION (1985) Saturday 13 December 2025

The women of Wilderness, Class of 1985, were a lovable and lively group who travelled from across Adelaide, Australia and overseas to attend their 40-year reunion on 13 December.

At times, it felt like having a group of schoolgirls back in the yard, with laughter and playful antics bringing moments of joy throughout the School tour.

Memories of their time as art students and boarders, in particular, were shared as they enjoyed seeing how the School has grown and changed since their days at Wildy.

The evening continued at The Lion for dinner, where the reconnections and conversations no doubt carried well into the night.

Thank you, Class of 1985. We had a wonderful time sharing this special occasion with you.

Southern Fleurieu Morning Tea Wednesday 18 March 2026 It was a pleasure to host our annual Southern Fleurieu morning tea in March at Cockles Café in Port Elliot, bringing together a wonderful group of Old Scholars from the region.

With year levels spanning 1961–1978, the gathering was filled with lively conversation, laughter and the sharing of treasured Wilderness memories. It was a special opportunity to reconnect not only with one another, but also with the School and its enduring community. We look forward to continuing this much-loved tradition and warmly invite any Old Scholars in the Southern Fleurieu region to join us at a future gathering.

BRISBANE REUNION (ALL YEARS) Friday 27 February 2026 A select but enthusiastic group met at the Morrison Hotel, Brisbane for the SE Queensland Old Scholars get-together.

It was the first time that we had managed to meet since pre-Covid days.

It was a great lunch, with stories flying from the beginning to the end of the day. One that really rang a chord was a Boarder (who shall remain nameless) sharing the tale of getting hauled over the coals by Matron on the way back from Church on Sunday. Her crime – drinking too much of the altar wine at church!

We were proud to meet Belinda Arnfield, who travelled to Queensland to see us all and proved to be a delightful lunch companion, with many stories of her days teaching at Wildy.

Annie Freeman (1969)

Gentlemen of Wilderness Cocktail Party Wednesday 1 April 2026 In April, we welcomed back our 'Old Boys' for the annual Gentlemen of Wilderness Cocktail Party. The evening offered the chance to catch up and the warm renewal of longstanding friendships.

As always, we were delighted to welcome three former Wilderness teachers, whose familiar faces added an extra layer of nostalgia. Events like this remind us that the spirit of Wilderness extends far beyond the classroom and we are so proud to continue this cherished tradition.

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

ANNOUNCEMENTS We congratulate the following Old Scholars on their special milestones:

BABIES 1.

Madeleine Rosser (McLaren – 2011) and husband Ben welcomed Elodie Isobel Rosser on 24 July 2025.

ENGAGEMENTS Tori Tasker (2012) and Ryan Vice were engaged in November 2025.

WEDDINGS 2.

Ella Moeck (2009) married Stefanie Johnston at Coriole Winery in McLaren Vale on 1 November 2025.

1

2

3

4

3.

Dani Siviour (2006) married Hayden Whitwell in Port Lincoln on 11 March 2025.

4.

Georgia Smithson-Tomas (2014) married Michael Erian on 22 November 2025, at St George Orthodox Church in Thebarton.

Through torrential rain, they made a memorable entrance by horse and carriage, to celebrate at Georgia’s family home.

STAY CONNECTED AND UPDATE YOUR DETAILS We love hearing from our Old Scholars about your milestones and celebrating your successes. If you have something to share, please email your news and accompanying photo to oldscholars@wilderness.com.au.

To update your details, visit wilderness.com.au/old-scholars-connect.

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We extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of the following Wilderness community members:

IN MEMORIAM Old Scholars

Staff

June Howie (Pritchard) 1939

It is with fond remembrance that we acknowledge the passing of Mrs Beth Green, at the age of 90, who dedicated 20 years to Wilderness School, from 1978.

Pat Grayling (Ellis) 1945 Pamela Yule (Hardy) 1948 Winifred Gray (Gray) 1953 Meredith Hooper (Rooney) 1956 Sue Charlton (Woodruff) 1960 Deborah Lillecrapp 1971

Mrs Green served as Head of Music from 1980 (later Director of Music) until 1996 and was also Head of Cedar House from 1989 to 1990.

So many students will remember Mrs Green playing the piano at Assembly in the former Memorial Hall, guiding voices in our school song, and inspiring a love of music that will be remembered for generations.

A beautiful tribute to Mrs Green in the paper reads, “A life of music, a sparkling heart. A passion for teaching and fashionably standing out.

Always composed, gently now she guides the stars in their celestial song.”

Mrs Green's passion for teaching, her warmth, and her distinctive presence leave a lasting mark on the school community.

We extend our condolences to her family and all who knew and loved her.

It is with sadness that we also acknowledge the passing of Old Scholar and former staff member Mary Berry (1950).

Mary was part of a family with a long and meaningful connection to Wilderness. Her mother, Catherine (nee Barker, 1922), attended the School and her father, Dean Berry, served the School as its Architect and Chairman of the School Council for many years. His work helped shape key parts of the campus, including additions to the home of the Brown family for office and classroom areas, and the original Memorial Hall.

Mary herself returned to Wilderness as a teacher in the 1950s, teaching students in their final year of Primary School. Her connection to the School continued in later years through the Berry Prize for French, established in honour of her father and awarded annually to a Senior School student.

Mary’s enduring ties to Wilderness reflect a family legacy woven into the history of the School.

We extend our condolences to her family and all who knew and loved her.

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

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Wilderness Times | Summer – Autumn 2026

2026 REUNIONS AND OLD SCHOLAR EVENTS OLD SCHOLAR EVENTS

GRADUATING REUNIONS

WOSA AGM

Class of 1986 40-year Reunion

Wednesday 10 June 6.30pm The Chrysalis Room, Wilderness School

Saturday 20 June School Tour – 3pm Dinner at Kent Town Hotel - 6pm

Saturday 14 November School Tour – 3pm Dinner – 6pm

Class of 2016 10-year Reunion

Where venues are not listed, we will be in touch via email at a later stage with details.

WOSA Golf Day Monday 9 November 8am Royal Adelaide Golf Club

Saturday 22 August School Tour – 10.30am Lunch – 12.30pm

Class of 1966 60-year Reunion Friday 11 September Dinner at The Caledonian – 6pm Saturday 12 September School Tour – 10.00am

Class of 1976 50-year Reunion Friday 23 October School Tour – 4pm Dinner at The Caledonian – 6pm

Class of 1996 30-year Reunion Saturday 31 October School Tour – 3pm Dinner – 6pm

Class of 2006 20-year Reunion

For more information on each event, and to book, please visit wilderness.com.au/events

Remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram www.facebook.com/ wildernessoldscholars www.instagram.com/ wildernessoldscholars/ Connect with us on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/ wildernessoldscholars

WOSA AGM Wilderness Old Scholars’ Association Incorporated

NOTICE OF 2026 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the members of the Wilderness Old Scholars’ Association will be held at Wilderness School - 30 Hawkers Road, Medindie, South Australia – in The Chrysalis Room on Wednesday 10 June 2026 at 6.30pm.

BUSINESS: 1. President’s Report 2. Treasurer’s report 3. Resignations 4. Nomination and Election of Office Bearers 5. Nomination and Election of Committee Members 6. Special Business

Apologies should be given via email to president@osa.wilderness.com.au or by phone to the Advancement Office on 08 8343 1094 by Friday 29 May 2026.

Sophie Howe Secretary

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JOIN THE WOSA COMMITTEE The Wilderness Old Scholars’ Association relies on the energy and ideas of its Committee to keep our community connected.

From organising events like the Young Old Scholars Reunion and Quiz Night to supporting the Old Scholars Scholarship, Committee members help shape the life of the School community.

New members of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, including interstate residents. For younger Old Scholars in particular, this is a great way to learn how a committee works while contributing your skills.

If you are interested in joining, please contact: Rebekah King Old Scholars Engagement Coordinator oldscholars@wilderness.com.au or 08 8343 1094 for more details.

Fridays during term

WILDERNESS PLAYGROUP IN 2026 Gentle, play-based sessions led by experienced educators for children from birth to three years.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

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