conTenTs | issue 8 suMMer 2018

Issue 8 suMMeR 2018

Building quality relationships through united days

TransiTion class Turns 25

sTudenTs consider The issue of gender equiTy in ausTralia

conTenTs | issue 8 suMMer 2018

PLC Sydney acknowledges the Wangal people, of the Dharug dialect, on whose land the College resides, and pays respect to Elders both past and present.

01 From the Principal

02 Farewell Dr David Lim

02 Coding challenge accepted

03 Music, music, music!

04 Inaugural Florence Art & Design Tour

06 Transition class turns 25

07 Student research presented in Venice at the International Student Science Conference

08 Fuel Conference—Our biggest yet!

09 Students consider the issue of gender equity in Australia

10 Blazers of glory

12 Shibori textile dyeing workshop inspires young textile designers

13 Woven: Fragments and imperfect recollections of PLC Sydney

14 Building quality relationships through United Days

16 On exchange at PLC Sydney

17 60 seconds with… Mrs Jo Lukabyo

18 Debaters hone their skills

19 History making theatresports team

20 PLC Sydney was the school for us— A boarding and transition perspective

22 A ‘mid-spring afternoon’s dream’ at the pop up globe

23 Save the date: 2019 Science Summit

24 From the Archives: The remarkably unremarkable Tart sisters and their father

26 Tennis program goes from strength to strength

27 ex-students’ news

28 ESU announcements

32 Ex-Students and Alumni honour past Principal Miss Freda Whitlam AM

33 Alumni events in 2018

36 Save the date: 2019

37 2018 Jersey Day reunions around the country

40 Where are they now?

This publication includes the Ex-Students' News, a publication representing PLC Sydney's ESU.

EditorMrs Nicole Paull

CoVErThe play Woven brought PLC Sydney recollections to life. See page 13 for more information.

ContributorsDr Paul Burgis, Miss Carmela Garcia, Mr Phil Harper, Mrs Cathee McAllum, Mrs Georgie Moodie, Eliza Martin, Sophie Angus, Mrs Edwina Soh, Mrs Linda Chiba, Ms Jo Herrmann, Mrs Heather Clark, Sophie Montague, Yashica Moodley, Maria Oishi, Chizuru Suzuki, Mrs Jo Lukabyo, Mrs Lynette Hawkey, Miss Alisha Vigna, Louisa Cusumano, Yanna Gralton, Mrs Fiona Webber, Olivia Oh, Rachel Lao, Ms Debby Cramer and Mr Steve Randjelovic.

Ex-students' news: Michele Adair, Jeni Bone, Marina Clark, Suzanne Clubb, Kate Day, Elizabeth Gemmell, Elizabeth Gregory, Petrina Hawkins, Julia Hewson, Lesley Meldrum, Helen Humphries, Sara Keli, Ann McDonald, Robyn McBride, Elizabeth Tugwell and Philippa Zingales. Thank you to all ex-students who contributed.

our MagaZine TeaM

From the principal

Think about the two words ‘accomplishment’ and ‘achievement’.

Thus, a music student might ‘achieve’ the playing of a certain tune, but will only be ‘accomplished’ when she has mastered her instrument.

Our goal at PLC Sydney is small achievements on the way to accomplishments.

‘Achievement’ is positive in that it suggests a goal set and a goal met. A student thinks that they would like to improve in a certain way and they do this. At PLC Sydney we celebrate achievements.

‘Accomplishment’ suggests this, and more. It suggests not just a goal that is outside of the individual, but a personal change, a point of growth, a ‘newness’ to the student.

And it is the growth of the whole person that matters.

In this edition of Camphora you will read about both. Thank you for joining with me in celebrating the growth of girls and young women.

dr Paul burgis Principal

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ISSuE 8 / SuMMER 2018

Elected to College Council in 2009, David is a member of Ashfield Presbyterian Church. He is a parent of two ex-students—each of whom thoroughly enjoyed their time at PLC Sydney. As a Council member in the time Rev. Peter Hastie was Chair, he sat on all College Council committees. He has overseen the governance at PLC Sydney during a time of peace, growth and tremendous educational development.

We thank Dr Lim for his warmth and friendship, his openness, honesty and the ability to build an atmosphere of trust within the Council and wider community. He has always been incredibly approachable and ready to chat to anyone and everyone at PLC Sydney and Armidale. David has been a regular attendee and speaker at PLC Sydney's student assemblies and Staff Development Days.

During his tenure the College has grown from 1175 to 1306 students.

He has been instrumental in key appointments to both PLC Sydney and PLC Armidale, including Principals, Dr Paul Burgis and Mrs Nicole Taylor. He enjoys excellent relationships with both principals. The development of the new Hamilton/Gateway building has occurred during this period.

Dr Burgis said of his time with Dr Lim. ‘Dr Lim and I have enjoyed not only a close professional relationship but a real friendship. It is so enjoyable to plan with him, to talk about everything from a wonderful student performance to the mission and vision of the College. Our families have enjoyed lovely social events together. David is always only a moment away from a good laugh. He is a joyous man. He has been highly respected by the College Council for his astute governance—he knows which responsibilities belong to the College Council and which belong to the School Executive. He is aware both of the rich Christian heritage of the College and of the fact that our student body is drawn

Farewell dr daVid lim

Plc sydney wishes to thank dr lim for nine years of dedicated service and to recognise his considerable achievements.

from many cultural backgrounds. I am very sad to know he is retiring, but I know he has developed a thoughtful and able College Council. It will be a joy to work with Mrs Leah Russell. She is perspicacious and diligent, a generous and thoughtful person.'

PLC Sydney is delighted to welcome Chair elect, Mrs Leah Russell, who will be PLC Sydney's 11th Chair and the first woman elected.

this year students in Years 9 and 10 completing the Cambridge Computing Science course accepted the challenge. Each week they completed a series of

programming questions and received a score for each question.

Year 9 completed the Beginners strand of the NCSS Challenge. This was their first taste of programming—they had never done programming before and had no idea what to expect. They have shown inquiry and discipline by analysing the questions to determine the best way to solve the problem.

They have shown courage and purpose by looking at the problems, discovering their mistakes and persevering until they solved the problem. The girls are learning from each other, helping each other and collaborating, which embodies respect and integrity for themselves and each other.

Year 10 completed the Intermediate strand of the NCSS Challenge and were able to expand their coding skills. They have begun to explore the endless possibilities of what can be achieved through coding. They have enthusiastically embraced the challenge of improving their coding skills by trying to write the most efficient and effective code. The challenge ended with two students receiving a perfect score! They have truly collaborated with each other to achieve their goals and shown themselves to be young women with intelligence and ambition.

Miss Carmela Garcia IT Integrator

coding challenge accepted

sydney university’s national computer science (ncss) Programming challenge has been developed for students across australia and internationally.

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PLC SYDNEY / CAMPHORA

Music features extensively throughout the college calendar each year, with spectacular performances from staff and students.

2018 was a very busy year indeed with performances for the Anzac Day March in the Sydney CBD, the Annual Music Festival, Meitoku Tour to Japan, the Annual Choir Evening ‘Choral Fest — The Idea of North’, Curtain Call, the PLC Tattoo and the Pipe Masterclass.

AnnUAL MUSiC FESTivALThe 2018 Annual Music Festival was a spectacular affair held at Sydney’s iconic State Theatre. The choice of venue was in keeping with the importance of the event, being the 130th Anniversary of PLC Sydney. The Festival featured outstanding performances by a vast range of the College’s musical ensembles and choirs. Amongst these groups was the recently launched Symphony Orchestra performing the world premiere of ‘Sixty Seconds to Armistice’ composed by our Composer-in-Residence, Mr Paul

Jarman. Other ensembles performing on the night included our Senior and Junior Choirs, Hand Bells, Wind Ensemble and Big Band.

ChorAL FEST — ThE idEA oF norThOn 4 September PLC Sydney held its Annual Choir Evening, this time hosting the world class A Cappella group, ‘Idea of North’, as the featured artists of the night. Our Senior and Junior Choirs enjoyed entertaining and informative workshops run by the members of Idea of North prior to the commencement of the concert. The evening consisted of performances from each of our Senior and Junior Choirs as well as combined performances with The Idea of North. To conclude the evening, our guest performers entertained everyone with a myriad of A Capella works encompassing

many genres including folk, baroque, medieval, popular modern and instrumental acapella.

PLC TATTooThe PLC Tattoo is quickly becoming one of the musical highlights of the College calendar, regardless of the inhospitable, but nevertheless very fitting, weather conditions it appears to summon each year! It becomes easy, with the sound of pipes being accompanied by biting winds and freezing temperatures, to imagine and be engulfed by the Scottish Heritage which underpins our great school.

The event includes performances by our PLC Pipes and Drums, Concert Band, Junior Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Big Band, and the new PLC Sydney Dance Troupe. Furthermore we had a large array of guest groups such as the Knox Grammar Pipe Band, Newington Cadet Band, Northern Suburbs Pipe Band, Burwood RSL Pipe Band, Hills District Pipe Band and St Mary’s District Band.

Mr Philip HarperDirector of Performing Arts Coordinator of Bands

music, music, music!

The 2018 Annual Music Festival was a spectacular affair held at Sydney's iconic State Theatre.

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designed by the Visual Arts and technological and Applied studies Faculties to inspire PLC Sydney elective students of Visual Arts, Design & Technology and Textiles & Design and extend and support the classroom curriculum. The tour offered students a once in a lifetime opportunity to attend specialist artisan workshops and visit some of the best art and design museums that Europe has to offer.

Arriving in London for a two-night stay, the group viewed the best examples of British and international romantic and modernist art and design at the iconic Tate Modern, Tate Britain and Victoria and Albert Museums and enjoyed the stunning panorama from the London Eye. Visits to the must see iconic sights of Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, St Paul’s Cathedral and Harrods were also highlights experienced along the way.

On arrival in Italy, the group began their Florence stay in the Fiesole hills north of the city at a family run pensione which was in itself one of the most impressive experiences of the Tour with its rambling gardens, traditional Italian breakfast

buffet and breathtaking vista of Florence and the Duomo in the distance.

Travelling between Fiesole and Florence daily, students participated in a number of hands-on workshops run by local artists and artisans including en plein air painting sessions, a paper marbling workshop at the artisan studio of Giulio Giannini e Figlio who continue a tradition spanning six generations, as well as attending a specialist visit where the girls learnt about the fascinating technical processes of conserving frescoes and paintings at The Institute for Art and Restoration.

A city stay within the historical centre of Florence placed students amidst the stunning architecture of Florence with its Duomo and Pitti Palace, once the residence of the infamous Medici family, patrons of many Renaissance artists and architects. The first-hand experience of viewing Florentine Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi and Accademia galleries such as Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus was unforgettable as were works by Leonardo Da Vinci,

Donatello, Raphael Caravaggio, Artemisia Gentileschi and many more, was overwhelming and inspirational.

Students were treated to informative tours of the Gucci Gardens, Salvatore Ferragamo, Galleria del Costume at Palazzo Pitti and Piaggio (home of Vespa) museums where graphic design, material processes and signature brand development was observed directly. Florence is known for its fine leatherwork design and the group learnt about different types of leather and master craftsmanship involved in producing products at the Scuola del Cuoio workshop located within the monastery of Santa Croce.

A day trip each to Siena and Perugia enabled experiences of medieval hilltop towns with their walled citadels and unique styles of art and architecture held within.

Highlights here included the internationally acclaimed Giotto frescoes representing the life of Christ and Saint Francis of Assisi, Siena’s Palazzo Pubblico and its iconic cathedral with its striking black and white marble architecture and incredible illuminated manuscripts. The group enjoyed creating truffles in a chocolate making class at the Perugina Chocolate Factory, just outside Perugia, known for their Baci ‘kiss’ chocolates.

To close the Tour, students visited MITA (Made in Tuscany Academy) where PLC Sydney students have the opportunity to apply for a gap year experience and be introduced to the world of Italian design. A stop at Gordon Ramsay’s 'Plane Food’ restaurant at Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport en route home allowed for a final celebratory meal together.

inaugural Florence art & design tour

Twenty two talented girls from years 9, 10 and 11 travelled to Tuscany, italy in the Term 3 holidays on the inaugural florence art and design Tour.

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Overall the students across Years 9, 10 and 11 enjoyed the opportunity to share their personal love for art and design and get to know their PLC peers with similar passions.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the students who attended the Tour for their excellent company and memorable experiences together and their parents who entrusted them with us. Thank you to Mr Paxton, Mr Hetherington and Mrs Nastasi who accompanied and mentored the group so thoughtfully and to Dr Burgis and Mrs White for their support.

Students or families interested in future Art & Design Tours are encouraged to make contact with myself or staff at The Croydon.

Ms Jo Knight Head of Visual Arts

‘The architecture in Florence is so well preserved and evident of the Italians love of art during the Renaissance. Being on the streets of Florence takes you back in time, when the world was quieter, and art and literature surrounds you on every corner.’

Hemans Chan Year 11 Design & Technology

‘The highlight of the Tour was being able to experience so much art and culture while getting to know the other girls.’

Heidi osborneYear 9 Visual Arts

‘What I learned on the Tour was that art is something that is all around us, that embodies us and defines us. What I found fascinating, particularly from the Renaissance, artists immortalised themselves through their interpretations of the world, creating the rich history we see today and I hope that we can continue this legacy of art.’

Anais LoweYear 9 Visual Arts

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transition class turns 25

it all began in 1994 with one teacher and nine students in a small room off the corridor behind shubra hall. dina Kremer (née franks) who currently works in the Junior school, was one of the foundation members of the class.

Twenty-five years on and the Transition Class, which now caters for up to 30 students, is located in two adjoining classrooms in the courtyard area. Students also occupy a house nearby, where they develop independent living skills, tend a garden and run a café twice a year.

To celebrate 25 years, two special events were organised. On Sunday 16 September, staff, students, families and friends gathered in the foyer of the Performing Arts Centre to enjoy high tea together. It was so lovely to catch up with so many ex-students and to hear about their wonderful achievements.

On Thursday 18 October, we gathered together again in the gallery and foyer of The Croydon to view a colourful display of art from our current and ex-students. Jessica Raymond (née Hodgkinson), an ex-student of PLC Sydney herself and now the manager of STuDIO ARTES in the Inner West, opened the exhibition. The Charm entertained us with live music and everyone enjoyed finger food as they viewed the colourful art. A special presentation was made to Mr Mark Hetherington, curator of the Adelaide Perry Gallery and the girls’ art teacher for the past eight years.

Mrs Cathee McAllumTransition Program Coordinator

‘You would think that after four years of being part of the PLC community, the wonder and awe would diminish. WRONG! Last night was yet another occasion whereby my mind was whirling with joy and gratitude as I drove home. Apart from the obviously amazing art and great food; the joy and respect the girls have for Mark Hetherington, the leadership, love and sense of family that Cathee engenders and the integral role Dr Burgis plays at steering the fine ship ‘HMAS PLC’ is palpable. Not only am I blessed to be able to have my girls share in the joy of all things PLC, it was an honour to have The Charm be part of the evening. Thank you all for allowing us to perform and share in the amazing Transition celebrations.

Heartfelt congratulations, we loved the authenticity, the enthusiasm and the joy.’

Mrs Georgie Moodie (parent of Hannah and Grace)

From left: Mr Mark Hetherington, Curator Adelaide Perry Gallery, guest speaker Jessica Raymond, students Lauren, Wednesday and Sarah, Dr Burgis and Social Education Officer, Ms Isabel Hayek, at the opening of the Transition Visual Arts Exhibition.

Mrs Cathee McAllum (third from right) enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with ex-students and their families at the High Tea to celebrate the 25 year anniversary of the Transition Class.

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sophie’s project, The Coriander Colander: The Use of Coriander to Remove Lead from Drinking Water, tested the effect of using fresh coriander leaves, stems and dried leaves to remove lead nitrate from artificially contaminated water. By using a home-made filtration system, she tested the subsequent lead concentration using assay test kits and a TXRF spectrometer with the assistance of Macquarie University. Her project was very successful, with fresh coriander leaves removing 74% of lead, showing its potential to help people living in developing countries.

Eliza’s project, Don’t Cry Over Undigested Milk: The Potential Use of Probiotics and Synbiotics for the Long-Term Treatment of Lactose Intolerance, used strains of lactic acid bacteria combined with inulins to form a synbiotic that can be used for treating patients with lactose intolerance. Her project was also very successful, showing that these capsules can remove lactose from the

student research presented in Venice at the international student science conFerence

on 2 september we travelled to Venice, italy for the 14th annual international student science conference (issc) after being awarded the dr Burgis Prize for excellence in scientific research for our year 10 student research Projects that we worked on for nine months.

gut environment, hence alleviating the symptoms of lactose intolerance.

At the conference there were delegations from Tasmania, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Venice. Each school delivered their presentations on their Science projects including glaciers in the Venetian mountains, air pollution in Taiwan, crustacean shells in Hong Kong, sponge cities in China and good fishing spots in Hobart. All of the projects were extremely interesting, thorough and innovative. Most students faced the additional difficulty of presenting and being questioned in their second language.

As a result of the conference, we made friends with like minded people from all over the world who were also enthusiastic about Science and concerned about the environmental issues of our planet.

We also attended lectures about several ecological issues in Venice from Italian

university lecturers and then visited the sites that these lectures were discussing. Some of these sites included the island of Lazzaretto, where victims of the plague were sent to be separated from the healthy, and the island of Torcello which was first settled in the year 452! A highlight was a day trip to the Dolomites Mountains in which we hiked to various viewing spots amongst the mountains.

We learned valuable lessons about science and leadership and look forward to applying this to the 2019 PLC Sydney Science Summit which will be held on Saturday 23 February.

We also hope to encourage and mentor Year 9 students as they begin their SRP journeys very soon.

The success of the trip would not have been possible without the support of Science and scientific research at PLC Sydney by Dr Burgis, and the passion and hard work of the Science teachers. Special thanks to Dr Gutierrez for her mentoring throughout the process from January to September, and Ms Hwang for accompanying us on the trip. We are grateful to Dr Burgis for funding the conference and travel.

Eliza Martin and sophie Angus Year 10

Eliza and Sophie at the Dolomites with Ms Eun-Soo Hwang.

Sophie Angus (left) and Eliza Martin presenting ‘The Coriander Colander’ at the ISSC.

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A total of 40 senior school students from both schools who attend the co-curricular Christian group Fuel, gathered at Port Hacking over the weekend of the 24-26 August. Fourteen ex-students form both PLC Sydney and The Scots College who were active members of the co-curricular group joined us for Sunday Church at the conference.

The conference brings together senior leaders from their respective Christian co-curricular groups, with a focus on equipping and training them in servant leadership. Chris Gillan, Assistant Pastor from Beecroft Presbyterian Church gave three Bible talks on embracing Christian leadership by loving God, loving others and loving the lost. Students also engaged in personal Bible reading, discussion groups and practical workshops such as using social media and technology and Christian character. Students bonded over social activities, playing sport, games and concluded each night around the fire, singing songs, in prayer and reflection.

A strong aim and emphasis for this conference is to model servant leadership skills from staff and ex-students. This included roles such as MC for sessions, playing, singing and leading in the band, leading discussion groups, teaching workshops, fire sides and running activities. Each year ex-students from PLC Sydney and Scots are invited back to help lead and serve, providing invaluable connections and advice for senior students leaving school.

2018 was our biggest yet! Biggest in attendance, biggest in encouragement, biggest in activity and fun!

Fuel is a Christian ministry run by the Chaplaincy team at PLC Sydney.

The goal of Fuel is to encourage Christian students to keep trusting and serving and following Jesus in and through their school life and beyond.

We also encourage investigators to join us, to come and ask the hard and big and small questions they have about God, the Bible and his world.

We seek to create a dynamic, inclusive and safe community for all students to come and join. Fuel meets weekly and is open to all in Years 7 to 12.

Mrs Edwina sohChaplain and Fuel Co-Curricular Leader

Fuel conFerence —our Biggest yet!

2018 saw our biggest group yet attend the annual fuel leadership conference run in partnership between Plc sydney and The scots college.

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students consider the issue oF gender equity in australia

three speakers, Dr Terry Fitzsimmons, Director of the Centre for Research into Gender Equity at the university of Queensland, Ms Julianne Elliott, Lawyer at Legal Aid NSW and Dr Justine Toh, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity, presented perspectives on equity issues including the state of employment and wage equity; consent equity and the Christian view of personhood and its implication for the equality issues.

Dr Fitzsimmons presented some sobering statistics. Women represent 58% of university graduates, yet on graduation, females with the same job and qualification will earn 5.5% less than their male counterparts. On average, nationally, women are paid 17% less than men. This figure is lower in the public sector (12%) and higher in the private sector (21%).

At retirement, women have 58% less superannuation than men. Representation of women as CEOs in the ASX200, has actually dropped from 13 in 2017 to 11 in 2018. In our Federal Parliament, women make up 42% of the upper House representation and only 30% of the Lower House representation. Australia stood at the global forefront of gender equality when women gained suffrage and were the first to allow women to stand for election in 1902. Yet 114 years later Australia ranks 61st in the world in political participation of women.

And the gender gap starts early. Dr Fitzsimmons also pointed out that even in terms of pocket money, there is a pay gap. According to his research, boys on average earn $13 per week pockets money while girls earn only $9.60.

Yet, as Dr Toh points out, we know from Genesis 1 that God intended man and women to be equal. Both men and women are made in the image of God, reflecting his nature. Both man and women were commissioned by God to prosper, reproduce, fill the earth and take charge.

Genesis 1 paints a picture of mutuality, one sex not greater or more important than the other. The current conditions that exits for women is not the biblical view of human flourishing that God designed for us.

As the ‘MeToo’ movement gained in momentum in 2018, the issue of consent is something that the students are concerned about.

Ms Elliott explained the current consent laws and what it means for young people. Our students appreciated the

year 11 and 12 Plc sydney students held their first forum on gender equity issues in august this year, inviting peers from Trinity and newington to participate in a round table dialogue to consider the issues that are preventing gender equity in contemporary australia.

opportunity to discuss their concerns around the lack of clarity for young people about consent, what it means and what it doesn’t mean.

The round table discussion opened up a space for dialogue. It provided an opportunity for the students to talk to their peers about how they can change the current inequalities in the gender paradigm so that both male and female can mutually flourish.

Mrs Linda ChibaDeputy Principal

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in 2018 the College awarded blazers to six girls for their wonderful achievements on the international stage in Public Speaking, Debating, Diving and Polo. Congratulations girls.

ELEAnor LAwTon-wAdE, YEAr 12Eleanor has represented her school and country, with distinction, at both the 2017 and 2018 World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships (WIDPSC). In 2017, Eleanor achieved an incredible 5th place in the World at this event. In 2018, Eleanor improved on this result, being crowned joint 1st and now holds the title of World Public Speaking and Debating Champion. An amazing achievement! Eleanor was also awarded a blazer in 2017 for representing Australia as part of the STANSW Young Scientist Team at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.

LinA Cho, YEAr 12Lina has represented Australia twice now at both the 2017 and 2018 WIDPSC. Lina was awarded her PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazer in 2017 after representing her country in Speech and Debating whilst still in Year 11. Lina ranked 18th in the World across four events at this Championships. Her second international cap was in 2018 when she travelled to South Africa as a member of the Australian Public Speaking and Debating Team to compete at the 2018 World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships.

LAUrEn MCGrATh-wiLd, YEAr 12Lauren represented her school and Australia in the 2018 World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships with distinction. At the age of 17, whilst in Year 11 she was selected for the Australian team to represent in Cape Town,

BlaZers oF glory

When a Plc sydney student reaches the pinnacle of representation in their chosen endeavour—representing australia at an international event —the college recognises this outstanding achievement with the awarding of a Plc sydney australian representative Blazer.

Dr Burgis with Anna Dowling (left) and Lauren Flint.


South Africa 2018. At the national events, Lauren was the Australian event winner of Impromptu Speaking and runner up in both Persuasive Speaking and Debating, earning herself overall 3rd place in 2017. Whilst in Cape Town in April 2018, Lauren was awarded 11th place at the World level, with a dramatic improvement in ranking in Interpretative Reading. She earned the distinction as the second most highly ranked Australian at WIDPSC and was presented with a PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazer.

ShEriE PAn, YEAr 12Sherie represented her school and Australia with pride at the 2018 World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition in Cape Town, South Africa. She improved her overall performances in Impromptu Speaking specifically, and finished one place off qualifying for the Top 12 in Interpretative Reading. From a field of 113 participants, she was placed 23rd in the World. Whilst she did not receive any formal accolades, she demonstrated creativity and flair in each of her international appearances. She finished as the 4th highest ranking Australian student at WIDPSC and was presented with a PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazer.

LAUrEn FLinT, YEAr 9Lauren is a member of the PLC Sydney Diving team, NSW Institute of Sport Diving Squad and the NSW CHS Diving Team. Her outstanding performances throughout the year saw Lauren selected into the Australian Junior Diving Team to compete at the 2018 Junior World Diving Championships. At this event Lauren achieved amazing results. A third place, and bronze medal, for the team 3m platform event and seventh place in the world for her individual 3m platform event. Incredible results for Lauren, who is only 15 years old. We were proud to award Lauren her PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazer.

AnnA dowLinG, YEAr 10Anna was selected to represent Australia in Polo at the World Youth Olympic Games, held in Argentina in September 2018. Anna was one of two Polo players selected by the Australian Polo Federation to represent Australia at this international competition, competing with other top ranked players from around the world. Anna’s selection was based on her being ranked the number one junior female player in Australia. Anna was awarded the PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazer in recognition of this great achievement.

Mrs Lynette Hawkey, Head of Speech, Debating and External Public Speaking, with Year 12 recipients of the 2018 PLC Sydney Australian Representative Blazers: (from left) Lina Cho, Sherie Pan, Lauren McGrath-Wild and Eleanor Lawton-Wade.

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they have consistently worked collaboratively to share ideas and displayed a range of quality textile design and construction techniques.

Our young designers embraced the opportunity to undertake a workshop with Pepa Martin and Karen Davis, the founders of the boutique fabric house Shibori. The workshop aimed to inspire people to explore the ancient Japanese art of shibori. The business also creates contemporary fabric designs for commercial applications and homeware products.

It was inspiring for our students to be able to share their creativity with successful designers who have collaborated on some unique projects including a full scale dip dyed hot air balloon, fabric inlay surfboards, as well as a homewares range with designer Lee Mathews.

The shibori workshop enabled our passionate Textiles Technology students to enjoy the process of creating handmade fabrics whilst expanding their textile knowledge.

Shibori is a Japanese manual resist dyeing technique, which produces patterns on fabric. There are an infinite number of ways to bind, stitch, fold, twist, or compress fabric for shibori, and each way results in very different patterns. Indigo is among the oldest dyes to be used for textile dyeing and printing. The dye is derived from

organic sources. Once harvested, indigo leaves are dried and then fermented. The indigo colour is a result of oxidisation when fabric is dipped into the dye and exposed to air.

The girls enjoyed the experimental nature of this workshop, the result is an amazing array of blue hues on

fabrics. These fabulous fabrics will then be manipulated to create individually inspired textile projects.

Ms Jo HerrmannHead of Technological and Applied Studies

shiBori textile dyeing worKshop inspires young textile designers

our year 10 Textiles Technology students are a committed group of dynamic, engaged young textile designers. Their passion has inspired their teacher Mrs nastasi to find innovative ways to challenge their enthusiasm and desire for creative exploration.

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woVen: Fragments and imperFect recollections oF plc sydney

To celebrate Plc sydney’s 130 years, drama company wove together the stories and memories of the past and present Plc sydney family.

drawing from extensive archival material, the one hour show brought PLC Sydney recollections to life. With live music, film, drama and movement, Woven represented the heart of the school through a montage of creative and imaginative representations.

Verbatim segments were interspersed with conceptual movement pieces. The opening overture, composed by Hemans Chan, was followed by witty stop animations from Olivia Silva. Student Assistant Director, Yashica Moodley and Student Musical Director, Sophie Montague, inspired their fellow students to step into the unknown, performing a play that emerged through workshop, rehearsal and creative risk taking.

The actors, from Years 8 to 11, worked seamlessly and passionately as an ensemble, each performing dialogue and conversation that had been spoken by real ex-PLC Sydney students. In each of the three performances, laughter bubbled up as the audience recognised the well-worn joys and trials of teenage-hood. And when the final acapella verse, sung by Chanel Chamoun was followed by the bagpipe solo of Vanessa Kwa, the audience were left with a deep sense of purpose; to make the world a better place and life a worthier thing.

Mrs Heather ClarkDirector

‘Directing and performing the music for Woven was a truly enlightening and challenging experience.

It was very much a collaboration with myself and my Music teacher Mr Harper—we both worked to arrange the pieces that we were given from our Director Ms Clark, to suit the musical ensemble and the instruments we had available. The songs were very diverse

and gave a very helpful and interesting insight into the history of the school and its experience during pivotal times in Australia's history.

Overall the experience was a lot of fun and working with the cast and crew was an honour and pleasure as we pulled off a sensitive and well executed performance on a topic that not only educated but entertained the audience.’

sophie MontagueStudent Musical Director

‘While in last year’s Inheritance I was part of the cast, this year I was gifted the opportunity to assistant direct Woven. As PLC approached its 130th year, Woven focused on theatrically displaying the ‘imperfect recollections’ given by ex-students and teachers of the College.

Shadowing the talented Ms Clark, I was able to grow my skills as a Director through learning how to run auditions in an efficient yet encouraging way, effectively warm up a company of actors and be critical of my own directorial decisions. I also

gained much more appreciation for the hard work Directors put into each show they produce.

During my internship at Sydney Theatre Company late last year, Artistic Director Kip Williams spoke of every director’s ‘aha’ moment, when they realise why they love producing shows. He told us this happened when he was in his late teens, and I too believe that mine happened during the opening night of Woven. While I was nervous for the actors on stage and knowing the ultimate outcome of the show was out of my control, when I saw the beaming smiles and frowns of concentration of each actor and musician, I sat back and realised that all the effort was well worth it.

In that moment, I felt so proud of the entire company and that I was able to contribute to such a beautiful show.’

Yashica MoodleyStudent Assistant Director

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This year, a new initiative in the well-being program has been the introduction of united days for each year group.

the aim of these days is to give the students an opportunity to grow in their sense of belonging and connection amongst their peers. The program for each United Day is structured around the particular needs of each year group. It is also an opportunity to communicate and identify to the students the key concepts that we believe are important in helping students understand, manage their well-being and flourish during their time at PLC Sydney.

Our well-being program centres on three broad topics: understanding the self, understanding and connecting with others and reaching out to the world.

At the centre of the well-being framework is the importance of quality relationships. Research tells us that it is the quality of our relationships that determine the quality our wellbeing.

Thus, our first focus is building quality relationships and hence the program name United Days.

Over the year we have invited a number of guest presenters to speak to the girls. One of our favourite speakers is Nic Newling from The Champions who spoke to Years 7, 9 and 11. Nic shares great advice to help improve mental health and how to support others who are experiencing mental health issues.

Other speakers included Michele Chevalley Hedge, a nutritionist who presented to Year 12 about healthy eating; Dannielle Miller, from Enlightened Education who spoke to Year 9 about friendship and resilience; Yasmin London from ySafe, who talked to Year 8 about using social media and cyber safety; Young and Confident who talked to Year 10 about the importance of character strengths and resilience; and Kate Fitzsimmons, a young motivational speaker spoke to Year 12 just before they graduated about safe travelling while overseas.

The programs for each year group have been interspersed with group games and bonding activities, challenges and student lead forums and discussions. Teachers have also lead sessions dealing with presentations on conflict resolution, character strengths, self compassion, goals setting and learning virtues. The response of the students has been overwhelmingly positive.

Mrs Linda ChibaDeputy Principal

Building quality relationships through united days

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ThESE ArE SoME oF ThE CoMMEnTS oF ThE STUdEnTS:

‘I think we need to have united days more often and do more activities we've never done before to feel more free to talk about anything. I think open discussions/forums about ideas, struggles, world problems are really important and helpful to discuss. I think we should have United Days once a term.’

‘I liked that students shared with each other hard obstacles that they have overcome in their lives as I think it made us closer and helped us really empathise with each other in a sisterly way.’

‘I think it was an amazing day, one of my favourites of my schooling experience. It was really nice to celebrate the good things about ourselves and the girls around us as we are so often competing and putting each other down. I got to know a lot of the girls more and got to appreciate the girls so much and dang I just love our year group!’

‘I would love to do more United Days especially off campus (and maybe once a term) as it really helped us grow as a year group which is important in developing friendships and

growing into women. It was also helpful as it gave us a reality check as I noticed that I wasn't alone in how I feel sometimes and find ways to deal with things (hearing other girls in the year and our leaders talk about how they deal with it is helpful). I liked having United Day off campus as it removed us from the pressures of school and the distractions that go with it—for example the school bells—we really just got together and listened and we were able to discuss pressing issues without the distractions of people in other year groups and bells.’

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our school in Japan is co-ed and also has a dormitory, but there are many strict rules to follow. PLC Boarding House has rules for things like eating times and ‘lights out’ but it is more relaxed and there is more freedom. Although there is one rule that we don’t like—we are not allowed to go to the shops on our own. We must be with another boarder.

There are some things that are similar to our dormitory at Meitoku, such as having study time everyday, although at Meitoku we must study in our rooms by ourselves. Here, we go to the library as a group and study. This is good because when we have a problem there are lots of people to talk to about it.

The food is good at PLC Sydney and mostly better than our school’s dining hall, which feeds about 800 students. Here at PLC we eat five times a day! At Meitoku we have breakfast lunch and dinner, but no morning or afternoon teas.

During holiday time we really enjoy going on home stay. It’s relaxing and fun.

We have stayed with many PLC families and have done many amazing things.

It is good to be out of school and living with an Australian family. Thank you to everyone who has hosted us.

The biggest difference between our school in Japan and here is the fact that we must move around from classroom to classroom for each lesson. Japanese high schools do the opposite. Students stay in one room and the teachers move around from classroom to classroom. When we first arrived it was very confusing and we did not know where to go. Sometimes there would be room changes. It was hard, but we got used to it and now think it has been a really good experience.

We study many different subjects at PLC. Science and PDHPE are particularly difficult because we can’t always understand the complicated vocabulary that the the teacher uses for these subjects. Maths is easy because in Japan we are about a year ahead of what Year 10 are studying now! PE is fun because we get to try lots of different kinds of sports, where as at Meitoku we stick to the one sport or activity, our club activity.

The other difference is the way the timetable works. In Japan there are one hour lessons with a ten minute break between each one in which we are not allowed to eat snacks. At PLC, there are two 50-minute lessons broken up by recess and lunch, where it’s okay to eat.

Our year at PLC Sydney has been a great experience. We have met lots of nice people and learnt lots in lessons. We have also enjoyed looking around Sydney.

Maria oishi and Chizuru suzuki Year 10

on exchange at plc sydney

We are exchange students, from Meitoku high school in Kochi, Japan and have been living in the Boarding house and going to school at Plc sydney for the past ten months. We are in year 10.

Japanese students Maria Oishi (left) and Chizuru Suzuki at Circular Quay, on an exchange excursion.

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Junior school Teacher

WHErE did You stArt tEACHinG?I started teaching as a casual and temporary teacher in two lovely Inner West Public Schools and at PLC Sydney. I did this for 2.5 years after completing my Master of Teaching. My first full-time role was teaching a fabulous Year 5 class at PLC.

HAVE You ALWAYs bEEn A tEACHEr or HAVE You HAd otHEr CArEErs bEForE tEACHinG?I had a very long and successful corporate career in Accounting and Finance. I worked in the healthcare industry with Johnson and Johnson Medical before moving to FOXTEL at the launch of Pay TV in Australia. Over thirteen years I worked in finance roles in FOXTEL, UKTV and BBC Worldwide.

WHAt LEd You to A CArEEr in EduCAtion?There were some significant structural and ownership changes in the organisation and I decided it was time to take a break from corporate life. I had always thought about teaching and promptly enrolled in a Master of Teaching.

WHAt HAs bEEn Your GrEAtEst CHALLEnGE in tHE CLAssrooM?I think for me personally it is the balance of all the requirements of a classroom teacher with my own well-being. I made a deliberate decision to change careers and therefore I am passionate about all that I can offer and do with the students in my classroom. The other side of the coin is that the list never actually gets completed. I am learning to stop and rest and enjoy!

WHAt do You EnJoY Most About bEinG inVoLVEd in EduCAtion?I love that I can be creative and even dramatic in my role as a classroom teacher. The students are the most wonderful participants in my schemes and activities. They jump right in and we journey together until the end of the year!

WHAt do You Find Most rEWArdinG About tEACHinG?It is definitely the student who makes significant progress in either a particular area or as an all round student. The student who lacks confidence at the beginning of the year and leaves the class as a Year 6 leader for the following year. The student who refuses to write more than a few words in the first week but is independently completing writing tasks in Term 4. It is also the former student who waves from her Senior School line or drops in to say hello.

The ability to influence the growth of a student is a gift and a privilege.

do You HAVE A Most MEMorAbLE CArEEr Point to dAtE?I think it was at the end of my first year at PLC. I felt amazed that I had made it to the end of the year at this extraordinary school. I had been blessed with a fabulous bunch of girls who definitely helped me along the way.

WHo HAs bEEn Your GrEAtEst inFLuEnCE?My husband and my two children.

WHAt is Your Motto in LiFE?Find a solution not a problem.

do You HAVE AnY intErEsts/HobbiEs?I love cooking, walking with my spoodle, holidays in Noosa, listening to podcasts, reading of course and watching British thrillers and dramas.

60 seconds with....mrs Jo luKaByo

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deBaters hone their sKills

Plc sydney's students are offered excellent opportunities to extend their debating prowess.

Apart from the competitive tournaments, ISDA and Archdale Debating, exceptional students are able to participate in university-run events. Six of PLC Sydney’s best debaters completed an intense training and competition day hosted by the uSu Debating Society at the university of Sydney in August.

Year 7 Junior Debating students, Olivia Stavrakis, Selena Read and Billie Ronis finished in the Top 3 Junior teams of the tournament, winning all three debates. Olivia Stavrakis reports:

‘The first round was a prepared topic and the second and third rounds were impromptu, meaning each team had 30 minutes to prepare their case and after that, they debated.This day was a great opportunity to try new things, such as speaking positions, and ask questions of university debaters.’

Year 10 students Nina Power, Audrey Tanama and Gwendalyn Dabaja also participated in the event and won one from three debates.

Such opportunities help hone skills in analysis, critical thinking, listening and oratory.

Year 10 features significantly talented speakers. Our ISDA Year 10 Debating team narrowly missed a berth in this year's Grand Finals in June and more recently, at the Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition, Gwendalyn Dabaja was awarded 4th place in Australia in Debate.

Mrs Lynette HawkeyHead of Speech, Debating and External Public Speaking

Year 7 Junior debaters (from left), Olivia Stavrakis, Selena Read and Billie Ronis finished in the Top 3 teams at the University of Sydney’s tournament.

Year 10 Senior debaters (from left), Nina Power, Audrey Tanama and Gwendalyn Dabaja.

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2018 has been a successful year for Theatresports at Plc sydney, most notably the history making win of the college intermediate team.

Earlier this year Louisa Cusumano, Yanna Gralton, Nina Power and Sophie Rogut became the first all female team to win the Impro Australia Schools Challenge Intermediate Grand Final.

As a team, the girls have gone from strength to strength, culminating in their participation in the Cranston Cup—the adult version of the Impro Australia Schools Challenge. The team made it all the way to the semi-finals, beating out many adult teams for a coveted spot.

Theatresports is a wonderful co-curricular activity and the girls gain so much from their participation.

Miss Alisha VignaDrama Teacher

‘Theatresports is my favourite co-curricular activity. I think that it is the ultimate way to spend one's time as it forces you to be brave, try new things and make discoveries about yourself and the people around you. I love Theatresports also because of the closeness of the girls in the club. We all get along really well and are always happy to see a new face in the room.

My team has been very lucky to do well this year and we have enjoyed ourselves immensely! I would encourage every person to try Theatresports at least once in your life. It truly changed mine.’

Louisa CusumanoYear 10

‘Being a part of Theatresports this year was a truly incredible experience. Not only did I get to compete in multiple competitions with various schools, but got to spend a year with an amazing team of girls and our fantastic coach Ms Vigna.

The key things I learnt this year were to have self-confidence, trust in my teammates and to have a 'go big or go home' approach to every decision.

I can't thank the Drama Department at PLC enough for giving me this opportunity this year—it is one I'll never forget.’

Yanna GraltonYear 10

history maKing theatresports team

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this year Mrs Fiona Webber, mother of Year 12 boarder Lauren, was asked to share her family’s experience of their time with PLC Sydney at the Year 12 Graduation Evening. Fiona has kindly agreed to share this with the wider College community in Camphora.

Good evening Mrs Russell, Dr Burgis, special guests, ladies and gentlemen.

Firstly, may I say what an absolute surprise and honour it is to have been asked by Ms Mellor to speak with you all this evening.

Our daughter Lauren will be graduating tomorrow with your gorgeous daughters after six years at PLC Sydney. Lauren is however slightly unique—she has been a boarder for those six years, and is a member of the Transition Class.

Our PLC journey started in 2011 when I was at a new mothers lunch at the King’s School for Lauren’s brother, Rhys. I was introduced to Libby Tugwell by a mutual friend, and as you do, you talk about each other’s family and children. Libby was at the time a parent of a PLC student. She is also a past PLC student, along with her mother and sister. She asked where Lauren was going to board and I explained about Lauren’s Autism Spectrum and that we weren’t sure about her going away to Boarding School. Libby said, ‘I know the school for you!’ and went on to tell me all about PLC Sydney and the Transition Class and the fabulous staff involved. PLC wasn’t even on our radar.

So Lauren and I came to the School Fete and Open Day that year and as soon as we walked through the gates we felt an immediate warmth and community spirit—not dissimilar to a

country town. We toured the Boarding House and the school and chatted with Cathee McAllum, who was flat out on the Garden Stall. We were both instantly sold on PLC!

So we came home to sell PLC to Lauren’s dad, Ian. We all returned to chat further with Cathee, who was in the midst of rehearsals for the Transition Spectacular. We watched with awe the brilliant singing and dancing the girls were involved in, and the energy, positivity and vibrancy Cathee and her staff have. Ian grilled Cathee in the lunch break—not to medium rare, but to extremely well done! Cathee answered all our questions with confidence backed up with facts and figures, and came through with flying colours!

We returned for another visit, where Lauren spent the day in the Transition Class and Ian and I were able to speak with Pauline Turner, the Head of Boarding. Once again Ian got out his BBQ and started roasting. And once again Pauline put us at ease. We knew PLC and the Transition Class was the right school for Lauren, however we weren’t confident that she would manage the boarding side. We didn’t want Pauline ringing us up after two weeks saying you need to take her home, that it wasn’t working. Lauren was also determined to go to Boarding School and make it a success, just like her older brothers.

So at the end of January 2013, Lauren moved into her new home, the PLC Boarding House, with her new sisters, sharing a room with three other girls. By day she would go to school where she was warmly welcomed each morning.

We thought Lauren, like most boarders, would go through a period of being

homesick, however this didn’t seem to happen at all in the six years. She loved being dropped back after a weekend out, just to find out what the other girls had gotten up to on their weekends.

For each of the past six years, Lauren has had 60 older and younger sisters from all backgrounds and nationalities that she loves being with, along with her Transition family and mainstream family.

Now I’m not going to tell you it was all plain sailing, just like it probably hasn’t been all plain sailing in your homes. Lauren can be very loud, and early on was known to slam doors, talk and walk loudly, and use some colourful ‘farm language’. All boarders need to work through challenges, be very resilient and strong young women. Most Boarders are hours away from a cuddle from their biological family should things not be going well. However we have found that situations have been seamlessly dealt with between the Boarding House staff and the Transition Class staff, and we were rarely notified of any problems.

PLC, the Boarding House, and the Transition Class, have opened up new worlds to Lauren, and our family.We have encouraged our children to get involved with all that the schools have to offer, as often this is not available in rural and regional centres or internationally for that matter.

plc sydney was the school For us—a Boarding and transition perspectiVe

graduating from school is a milestone moment in each girl’s life journey. it is also a milestone for parents having watched their child grow into the accomplished young woman presented with her graduation certificate at the graduation evening.

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Lauren has certainly done this. Lauren has been on Boarders’ Camps, inter-school dances, the Year 10 Formal and weekend boarder activities. Her boarder ‘sisters’ assist with spray tans, makeup and amazing hair braiding creations.

She has represented the school in a whole range of sports, both in mainstream teams on Saturdays and in Multiclass or Para events. She has been involved with the Transition Cafe, Transition Live-in, Transition Spectacular, Photography Club, Pet Show Committee, Social Inc, Speech classes and she is the Transition Liaison Officer. Lauren has had driving lessons through the school. Last year Lauren and a fabulous group of young women and teachers went on the Vietnam Tour, going to the Ba Vi orphanage and raising funds so that physiotherapy and better meals could be provided to the children. None of this would have been possible if Lauren stayed at school in the Upper Hunter. Most importantly, Lauren has a fabulous group of friends, made up of your exceptional daughters, and girls from other year groups.

So what for the future? … Well like your daughters, Lauren has goals and dreams for life after PLC. She would like

to stay in Sydney so she can continue to see her friends regularly, so she can continue to grow, and so she can get better support in accessing employment and training. Like some of you, she doesn’t know exactly what she would like to do career wise, but I’m sure that will figure itself out over time. You all need to stay open to the possibilities and opportunities that present themselves.

PLC Sydney is a wonderful school filled with dedicated educators and support staff, so professionally led by Dr Burgis. The staff have been fantastic—particularly all the amazing Transition and Boarding House staff. PLC has been a school that has provided a supportive and nurturing environment to all our daughters.

It is also a school that encourages the girls to extend themselves not only academically, but in co-curricular and social areas, and gives them the skills to do this.

It is a school that actively involves the Transition girls in all the offerings of the school, helping to break down the misconceptions of people with disabilities. Libby Tugwell was right—PLC was the school for us!

I was once told that ‘normal’ is just a cycle on the washing machine. None of us are really ‘normal’ and we are all unique in our own special way. Please remember to look after yourselves, and others, and don’t prejudge others. The person that you consider ‘different’ might just add the sunshine to your day!

To the Year of 2018, may I wish you every success in your upcoming HSC exams and beyond. You are certainly an amazing cohort of delightful, clever and resourceful young women. And remember, there is life after the HSC!

So… as Dr Seuss so eloquently wrote:

‘You’re off to great places! Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, so... get on your way!’

Mrs Fiona WebberGuest Speaker, Year 12 Graduation Evening

PLC Sydney parent, Mrs Fiona Webber, spoke movingly of her family's time at the College.

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a ‘mid-spring aFternoon’s dream’ at the pop up gloBe

on tuesday 11 september, we travelled to the Pop Up Globe to watch Shakespeare’s renowned play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Standing up as the groundlings would hundreds of years ago, we experienced all the things Shakespeare’s audience would, from a stage filled with hilarious characters and an interesting set, it captivated us all, making us laugh and cringe.

Worlds came alive, opening a window into the lives of these people… well not JUST people. Fairies, Kings… it was all there.

A few terms ago we learnt about a tale of four lovers: how Lysander and Hermia love one another, and Helena loves

year 7 had an experience they would never forget.

Demetrius, who loves Hermia. We all watched, mouths agape as the four wild lovers, desperately chased the ones they love: Helena chasing Demetrius, Demetrius chasing Hermia and Hermia and Lysander running away together. Meanwhile, the fairy queen, Titania and the king, Oberon, fight.

Not getting his way, Oberon gets revenge on his wife by making his servant, Puck, collect a flower that made her love the first thing she saw. This happens to be Nick Bottom a man, (who turned into a donkey) from the acting company, the Mechanicals, who was practicing a play they would perform in front of the Duke and Duchess. This made us cry of laughter. Things get messy when Puck is told to mend the relationships of the lovers, but gets everyone mixed up…

We ended up walking out of the theatre covered in animal blood from the Mechanicals’ play, wanting more, still hyped by the experience. I’m sure all Year 7 would agree, that we experienced a ‘Mid-Spring Afternoon’s Dream’.

olivia oh and rachel Lao Year 7

Covered in animal blood from the Mechanical's play during a performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Pop Up Globe, Year 7 students had an authentic Shakespearean experience.

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The science of making a Kit Kat

Just a cough of your breath: Detecting disease

Mars 3D Simulations

Searching for Alien Molecules

Desert Island Drugs:What would you take and why?

and more...

Saturday 23 February 20191:00pm-5:00pm

Workshops, keynote speaker, sausage sizzle and afternoon tea

For more visit:http://plc.sydney/sciencesummit2019

saVe the date:

From the archiVes: the remarKaBly unremarKaBle tart sisters and their Father

The college’s enrolment records show how often sisters have studied here over the past 130 years.

between 1901, the year of Australian Federation, and 1914, when World War I broke out, four such siblings were students: Vine, Henrietta, Maggie and Florence Tart.

The Tart sisters were all day girls and lived in ‘Gallop House’ in Ashfield. They quite likely travelled by train the one stop to Croydon. The girls were not all students at the same time. The elder two, Vine and Henrietta, enrolled in 1901 when they were 13 and 10 years of age, respectively. Vine left mid-way through 1903 and Henrietta at the end of 1904. At the beginning of 1910 the next sister, Maggie, aged 12, came. She left mid-way through the following year. Florence, the youngest of the quartet, was a student for the year 1914, when she was 15.

Sadly, we have few photos from those early years and none of the Tart sisters. According to the records held in the Archives we conclude that for the most part their school careers were unremarkable. None of them sat the public examinations that equate to today’s Higher School Certificate. Two of them are mentioned in editions of Aurora Australis. Vine is listed on the Roll of Honour for two terms, received a Junior Pass in Trinity College Music and was a Prefect for part of 1902. Maggie is listed on the Roll of Honour for Term 1 in 1910.

Of course so-called unremarkable school careers do not equate to unremarkable people. Most of us probably had ‘unremarkable’ school careers, for a school can have only so many leaders. Yet all PLC Sydney students have the opportunity to embrace the values of the College and therefore can be special or extraordinary—remarkable.

There were many activities during the years the Tart sisters were students at

PLC Sydney that would have shaped their values. Empire Day assemblies, with flags, recitations and singing, encouraged a sense of love of the young country. Raising money for the Dorcas Society and the Ashfield Infants’ Home engendered the practice of helping others. End of term ‘Fun Nights’ and ‘Break-up Nights’ gave opportunities to speak and perform in public with confidence. Even the short-lived ‘Anti-Paper League’ stimulated concerns for looking after the environment long before we coined the term ‘greenies’.

These activities were all in addition to the classroom instruction of ‘the three R’s’ plus Euclid, physiology, music theory and needlework. ‘Extras’ ranged from elocution to drawing to shorthand, bookkeeping and wood carving, plus pianoforte, organ and violin.

What is special—or remarkable—about the Tart sisters is that their father was the well-known Chinese merchant, businessman and philanthropist Mei Guangda, better known as Quong Tart.

Quong Tart and family, 1897. Tart McEvoy Papers, Society of Australian Genealogists [06-000016-003F].

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Their mother was English-born, so the four sisters are likely to have been some of the first PLC students of a mixed racial background. Their father died as a result of a very nasty bashing when the girls were all quite young, so their grieving was very public.

How this all came about is rather fascinating and reminds us that ‘everyone has a story to tell’, and that, indeed, we are all remarkable in some sense.

Quong Tart was born to a prosperous family of ornamental-wares merchants in Guangdong province, China in 1850. He came to the New South Wales goldfields when he was only nine years old, perhaps as a scribe to a party of Chinese gold miners. He acquired shares in gold claims and was wealthy by 18! He learned English (with a Scottish accent), became a Christian, took up cricket and married English-born Margaret Scarlett in 1886. They had six children.

At the turn of the 20th century the name ‘Quong Tart’ was well-known to Sydneysiders. This colourful merchant, known as ‘the Australian Mandarin’, owned a chain of popular tea shops throughout the city, extending from the theatre district around Haymarket to the

fashionable Sydney and Royal arcades, King Street and the Queen Victoria Market. Even visitors to the Moore Park Zoo could enjoy ‘a cuppa’ at one of his tea rooms!

Quong Tart’s ‘Elite Hall’ in the new Queen Victoria Market (today’s ‘QVB’) was opened by the Mayor of Sydney in 1898 and rocketed to the top of the list of ‘must be seen in’ spots in the city. It’s easy to see why. He had shrewdly leased several rooms in a prime position near the centre of the George Street façade. The hall could accommodate groups of up to 500 and became a fashionable venue for balls and parties. The dining saloon was praised for the high quality of its ‘Quontartian’ pastries and scones. As an employer he was progressive for his time: he granted his waitresses a week’s paid sick-leave and a paid weekend once a month.

Apart from the tearooms, Quong Tart imported tea and silk, agitated for the suppression of opium imports, defended fellow Chinese against anti-Chinese sentiment and supported numerous charitable causes, such as the City Night Refuge and Soup Kitchen and the Hospital Saturday Fund.

The Chinese Manchu-Qing Dynasty recognised Quong Tart’s services to the Chinese community in Australia by making him a Mandarin of the fourth rank in 1894. He and his family travelled to China for him to receive the honour. While there, again ahead of his time, he investigated the idea of supplying Australian wool to a Chinese wool-

manufacturing industry. Unfortunately, the plan did not go ahead.

He often mediated in disputes between the Chinese and Australian communities. The Anglo-Australian community recognised him as the representative of the Chinese in New South Wales, a feeling not always upheld by the members of the Chinese community. It is possible that his intervention in a libel case involving a Chinese language newspaper led to his untimely death. Sydneysiders were shocked when, in August 1902, Quong Tart was brutally bashed and robbed in his office in the Queen Victoria Market. He never fully recovered and died of pleurisy in July 1903.

Walking along Hercules Street, Ashfield, today is the Quong Tart Monument, erected in 1998 to a colourful member of Sydney society, a man who worked for the Chinese community in our city and state, and, last but not least, was a PLC Sydney father!

Ms debby CramerArchivist

SoUrCES:

PLC Sydney Archives: Record Books, prospectuses, Aurora Australis 1910-1914.

Other: Australian Dictionary of Biography

No Ordinary Man: Sydney’s Quong Tart, citizen, merchant & philanthropist, Nicola Teffer, Quong Tart Centenary Commemoration Committee, 2004.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/history/QuongTart

Quong Tart and staff outside Loong Shan tea-rooms, 137 King Street, 1889-1903. Tart McEvoy Papers, Society of Australian Genealogists [06-000026-004].

Quong Tart in his home, Gallop House, Ashfield, 1899. Tart McEvoy Papers, Society of Australian Genealogists [06 000016-001F].

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Ashley and Grace played several high level national and international tennis events—both girls did exceptionally well in these tournaments, regularly making it to the semi-finals and finals.

Grace won an international junior event, the Gallipoli Youth Cup. She also made semi-finals in the Australian Schoolgirls Championships and is a member of the Australian Merit Team. Ashley won the NSW 16s State Singles Title. Winning this title gives Ashley direct acceptance to the Australian National Championships in December 2018.

The 2018 IPSHA Tennis season has seen a total of 32 girls compete for PLC Sydney. This is the largest number of IPSHA Tennis girls we have had in recent memory.

PLC Sydney Tennis implemented several changes to our program in late 2017. These changes have enabled the program to be more dynamic, expand and provide high level coaching. The College has several coaches with international experience and knowledge to work from grassroots Tennis all the way to world ranked professional players.

So girls, as the saying goes ‘the ball is your court’ so why not pick up a racquet and be part of the exciting Tennis network at PLC Sydney.

Mr steve randjelovic Director of Tennis

tennis program goes From strength to strength

over the winter months year 11 students ashley allman and grace schumacher had continual success in Tennis tournaments.

PLC sydney held the annual senior school and Junior school tennis Championships. Competition was fierce and the matches were intense. Congratulations to all our girls who competed.

SEnior SChooL TEnniS ChAMPionShiPS 2018Singles Champion: Ashley Allman

Singles Finalist: Ella Athanassiou

doubles Champions: Zoe Jewell and Eliza Ying

doubles Finalists: Luka McKinnon and Olivia Sader

JUnior SChooL TEnniS ChAMPionShiPS 2018Singles Champion: Chauntelle Boustani

Singles Finalist: Jessica Ying

doubles Champions: Angelina Foley and Isabella Varone

doubles Finalists: Amelia Lai and Elizabeth Tran

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president’s report 2018

This year has brought about a few changes for the ex-students’ union (esu) and i, for one, do not usually ‘do’ change.

it has, however, proved to be surprisingly easy to adapt to and embrace the ‘new look’ ESU.

The College has appointed a Director of Alumni Relations to its staff and Philippa Zingales (Harris, 1998) has taken on this newly created role. What a blessing she is! Many of you will have already had the immense pleasure of meeting Philippa or at least being in touch with her through phone calls, emails, mail and social media. The creation of this position has really helped to integrate us more fully into the everyday life of PLC Sydney. The College recently had a special ESU assembly at which Philippa spoke.

Her speech emphasised the ongoing connectivity that we all have to PLC and how through our association we have ties all over the world. Quite simply once you are a part of the PLC family it is always there for you.

This year saw us holding our AGM on Jersey Day as well as having all

the decade reunions on the day. We had one of the best turnouts in my experience for our special day, with over 100 attendees. The grounds looked ever beautiful as did the new Junior School and Gateway Building, with our Coronelli Globe installed in the Reception area. In fact, it was almost overwhelming in its splendour!

Some things, however, remain the same. As we all entered College Hall for the Jersey Day Service and began to sing the School Hymn the years seemed to roll away and we were cast back in time to our various eras at the College. There was, as always, a true sense of unity and collegiality. For me, personally, there is nothing more delightful than being able to share common experiences with ex-students of all ages.

One of the changes, as you can see, has been the incorporation of the Ex-Students’ News into the College’s own publication. The Ex-Students’ News remains largely unchanged in terms of content but now it can be accessed by the entire school community and we, too, have all the latest PLC news at our fingertips.

On 1 September the ESU in conjunction with the College paid tribute to Miss Freda Whitlam AM, who passed away at the end of May, aged almost 98. An afternoon tea was held at the Macindoe Research Centre. Dr Burgis spoke about Miss Whitlam’s legacy to PLC which lives on primarily in Public Speaking and Science but in many other ways as well. In fact that same day Year 9 held the Pet Show, which was started by Miss Whitlam and the students continue to raise money for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. Jane Smyth (Daly, 1961) spoke movingly about Miss

Whitlam, recalling many anecdotes particularly from the early years of Miss Whitlam’s time at PLC Sydney.

During the year I have attended many events—both ex-student orientated and those involving current students. Philippa and I enjoyed morning tea at The Landings Retirement Village, Turramurra, with a group of ex-students living in that area. Once again shared PLC experiences were a perfect launching pad into other areas of commonality. The annual Church Service, led by Year 8 students; the PLC production of Beauty and the Beast; Woven, a play about the 130 years of The College; the concert at the State Theatre commemorating the same; Open Day and Fair; the opening of the Junior School… all of these have been most enjoyable and a chance to stay connected to PLC Sydney and the many people who make it into the magic place that it is.

If you haven’t recently been to the College (or even if you have!), I urge you to come along to one of the many events on offer and you will immediately feel ‘reconnected, rekindled and

ex-students’ news 27


Patron: Gwendoline Bosler (Stuart, 1949)

President: Marina Clark (Lvoff, 1978)

vice President: Catherine Marvell (Davidson, 1975)

Secretary: Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish, 1961)

Treasurer: Rae Gower (Hoore, 1949)

nCw representatives: Helen Humphreys (Neal, 1968) and Mia Joseph (Ilias, 2009)

Committee Members: Ann McDonald (1965) Sara Keli (Thorp, 2001) Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955) Robyn McBride (Hailey, 1976)Johanne Stapelfeldt (1978)Philippa Zingales (Harris, 1998)

esu coMMiTTee and office Bearers 2018

engagements17.02.2018

Jessie Tugwell (2011) to Alex wiles in Sydney

esu announcements

weddingsMegan hor (1998) and Fabio Carrillo

Megan and Fabio tied the knot at Centennial Parklands in May 2018 and were married by close friend and ex-student Amelia Butler (1998). The reception followed at the Three Blue Ducks, Rosebery.

The following ex-students were there to celebrate: sister Stephanie Sibbit (Hor), cousins Mamie McLean (Cheung), Karina Kallio (Cheung) and Larissa Mullan (Cheung), her aunt Elaine Allen-Narker (Hor) and 1998 classmates Amelia Butler, Skye Tyler (Johns) and Philippa Zingales (Harris).

L to R: Mamie McLean (Cheung, 1985), Stephanie Sibbit (Hor, 1991), Megan Carrillo (Hor, 1998), Karina Kallio (Cheung, 1994), Larissa Mullan (Cheung, 1993), Elaine Allen-Narker (Hor, 1968).

Fabio Carrillo, Megan Hor with celebrant Amelia Butler.

reunited.’ A good day to start doing this would be Jersey Day 2019. So please save the date: Saturday 9 March 2019.

As I write this report a survey is being put together to find out more ways in which we can best meet your ex-student needs. Thank you to those who took the time to complete the survey and we will be sharing some of the findings with our ex-student community, in the new year.

I would like to thank Dr Burgis very much for all his warm support of the ESU. He always makes us feel welcome and so willingly encourages us to continue to be a part of PLC Sydney.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my year as President and this is entirely due to the wonderful women on the Committee, who are not just supportive and dedicated but great fun to be with as well. Thank you one and all.

Marina Clark (Lvoff, 1978)

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Prue ward (2009) and Steven Turnell

Prue and Steven were married on 8 September 2018 at the Garrison Church, The Rocks, Sydney.

Mia Joseph (Ilias, 2009) and her Maid of Honour Jennifer Makryllos (2009).

Mia and Phillip Joseph.

03.08.2018

Jennifer Stockbridge (Lim, 2005) and Lachlan Stockbridge are delighted to announce the birth of their first child, Lucas Chenghao Stockbridge.

Births

07.05.2018

Celia Barnett-Chu (Barnett, 2005) welcomed twins Aletta (left) and Imelda.

09.07.2018

Annabelle williams (2006) and Alistair Oakes welcomed Josephine Rose Oakes.

Mia ilias (2009) and Phillip Joseph

Mia and Phillip were married on 1 October 2017 in Mosman Sydney. Jennifer Makryllos (2009) was Maid of Honour.

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nina Funnell (2001) has been included in the 2018 Australian Financial Review 100 Women of Influence and shortlisted for two Walkley journalism awards for her reporting on violence against women and girls, particularly in educational settings.

achieVements

Industrial designer, researcher and design educator dr Phillippa Carnemolla (1990) has been awarded the 2018 National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) International Women’s Day Scholarship. The $20,000 scholarship will fund a research paper analysing high school girls’ perceptions of careers in the construction industry and trade.

Hockeyroo and Olympian Kaitlin nobbs (2015) won a silver medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Janet Cameron (Grant, 1954) was awarded the Order of Australia Medal on Australia Day 2018, for service to the broadcast media.

Amanda Anderson (1998) represented Australia in the 2018 Ironman 70.3 World Championships in South Africa.

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in memorium

deaths

31.05.2017Amy o’neill (Roseby, 1946)

09.08.2017Julie harrison (Waldron, 1948)

September 2017Elizabeth Marshall (Hill, 1943)

28.02.2018Linden ‘Lindy’ Jane richardson (Frew, 1964)

21.04.2018dorothy Anne ‘doranne’ dobbin (Paterson, 1947)

23.04.2018Sandra Swanson (Stuart, 1957)

01.05.2018Joyce walker (Noble, 1957)

28.03.2018Catherine onslow (Pym, 1938)until her passing in March, Catherine was Australia’s oldest living Olympian, having competed in Fencing at the Helsinki 1952 Olympic Games.

Marjorie harley (Thompson, 1942) 8 January 1921 – 27 September 2017

Marjorie was the youngest daughter of Frank and Lily Thompson, whose generation had strong ties to the College. Her mother Lily Thompson (Crawford, 1906), and Lily’s sisters Mary-Maxwell 'Max' and Jessie were students as were Frank’s sisters— Jessie, Jean, Margaret, Kathleen and Grace Thompson.

Marjorie’s father FL Thompson was chairman of the College Council and her husband Alan and cousin Robert Crawford were both members of the College Council. Marjorie’s ‘Thompson aunts’ — Jean, Margaret and Kathleen later converted their home into a school which became the College’s Infants Department, Branxton.

Marjorie and her sister Betty Davis (Thompson, 1938) were both students of the college in the 1930s–40s. During a time of instability in the world, the PLC Sydney environment was one of great stability for them both. Both sisters were Dux of their school year, Marjorie in 1941 and Marjorie stayed another year at school. She then went on to study Science, specifically Botany at Sydney University where she became a tutor.

Marjorie’s daughters Anne Harley (1972) and Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Tugwell

03.05.2018Jeannette York oAM (Davey, 1950)Jeannette was a vibrant member of the PLC Sydney Community. She was a founding member of the PLC Sydney Foundation, served as President of the Ex-Students’ Union and worked with the P&F throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Her daughter Belinda was School Captain in 1976.

15.05.2018Christine Kiss (Hinton, 1970)

25.08.2018Margaret Jean hayne (Alexander, 1949)

15.09.2018 Elaine Gay (1972)

18.10.2018Margaret 'Margie' herbst (Olding, 1938)

(Harley, 1979), and her granddaughter Jessie Tugwell (2011) are all ex-students. Her son Robert and her nephews all attended Branxton.

Marjorie loved her time at PLC as a student. She continued this love as a parent and grandparent. She was involved in a number of activities in the College and she kept in contact with many students from her College days. She regularly attended Jersey Day, Card Day and other school functions.

20.10.2018Elizabeth Gemmell (Wannan, 1971)

L to R: Jessie Tugwell (2011), Elizabeth 'Libby' Tugwell (Harley, 1979), Betty Davis (Thompson, 1938), Anne Harley (1972) and Marjorie Harley (Thompson, 1942).

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on saturday 1 september ex-students, past staff and guests, came together for afternoon tea to honour Miss freda Whitlam aM, Plc sydney Principal for 19 years who passed away on 30 May 2018.

Warmly welcomed by dr burgis, alumni joined together to sing a very moving rendition of the school hymn and guest speaker, Jane Smyth (Daly, 1961) spoke of her time as a student with Miss Whitlam. Jane’s speech is available at: www.plc.nsw.edu.au/microsites/alumni/spotlight-on

Many ex-students had not seen each other or returned to the College in several years, so there was a mood of reflection and re-connection throughout the afternoon.

Past teachers Patricia Ball, Rosalind Rennie, Erna Tan, Lesley Meldrum, Ronne Webb, and Cheryl Judge as well as past principal Dr William McKeith and his wife Sue, attended the event, in addition to special guest Miss Audrey Keown OAM.

Vale Miss Freda Whitlam AM.

ex-students and alumni honour past principal miss Freda whitlam am

L to R: Janine Mottee (Farckens, 1974), Catherine Mottee (1974), Rene Holmes (Mottee, 1973), Heather Nielson (Patrick, 1973).

Dr William McKeith AM (past principal) with Miss Audrey Keown OAM.

PLC Sydney Alumni honour Miss Freda Whitlam AM on Saturday 1 September in the Macindoe Research Centre.

L to R: Julie West (Downes, 1970), Susan Hill (Ellis, 1970), Mary Faith (Paton, 1970), Judy Lawry (Green, 1970), Audrey Keown OAM, Penny Hardwood (Dolphin, 1970).

L to R: Susan Collins (Brown, 1962), Sue Edwards (Stansfield, 1961), Janet Simpson (1961), Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish, 1961), Petra Graham (Loveridge, 1961) and Lorraine Smith (Ray, 1961).

L to R: Anne Hadgraft (1977), Roslyn McClure (Geoghegan, 1976), Kathryn Elliot (Williams, 1977), Patricia Ball (past staff member), Vicki Trillini (Hallinan, 1977), Vicki Kuhl (Bosler, 1977), Gwen Bosler (Stuart, 1949).

Jane Smyth (Daly, 1961)

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it has been an honour to meet with so many ex-students, their families and friends throughout the year at our alumni events. each year the highlight is Jersey day and we are always thrilled to see so many ex-students return to the college, reunite with past friends, reconnect with new friends and rekindle their school day memories.

alumni eVents in 2018

WHY is it CALLEd JErsEY dAY?

Jersey Day is named in honour of the Countess of Jersey, who opened the new College buildings (College Hall, the Dining Room and the Boarding House) on Tuesday 10 March 1891. Jersey Day has been held each year since 1894 and in 2019 will mark 125 years of this special ex-student event.

Jersey dayJersey day commenced with a series of College tours, as many ex-students hadn't returned to the school for more than 30 years, and of course there have been significant changes in this time. The PLC Sydney Orchestra, led by Mr O’Dea and the Pipes and Drums Band, led by Mr Wishart, both performed to great applause. Following a Service of Thanksgiving - a highlight for many ‘PLC girls’ is to sing the school hymn once again – everyone enjoyed Afternoon Tea under the sundrenched Camphor Laurel Tree.

The Archival display in Marden, another highly anticipated part of the annual event, enjoyed a steady stream of guests exploring the College’s history and speaking with Archivist, Debby Cramer.

Planning is well underway for next year – Saturday 9 March 2019.

L to R: Helen Humphreys (Neal, 1968), Lynette Garrick (Harmond, 1968), Helen Schutz (Simpson, 1968).

Classmates from 1998: Zeina Najjar, Vivian Thomas (Lam), Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Paton, Annabelle Cusack (Robinson), with Dr Burgis.

L to R: Georgina Hedge (2019 Year 12), ESU President Marina Clark (Lvoff, 1978), Dr Burgis, Amilia Bonnano (2018 Year 12). Both students are recipients of the ESU Scholarship.

L to R: Nicole ‘Nicci’ McCarroll (Kolomyjec), Kristy Christensen (Player), Kirryn Zerna (Fraser), all from Class of 1998.

Jersey Day Service of Thanksgiving in College Hall

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card dayCard day is one of the longest standing ex-student events in the College calendar and was held at Pymble Golf Club on Monday 19 March. Whilst the card players were quietly bidding at Bridge, others were enjoying catching up with each other on the verandah.

Card Day is not just about cards! You can play Scrabble, Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit and even make a start on 1000 piece puzzles.

The Club is booked again for Monday 18 March 2019, so save the date and come along with your game of choice for a thoroughly enjoyable day.

the croydon circlethis year marked the establishment of a new alumni group: the Croydon Circle. Created to recognise those alumni who have the longest connection to our College's traditions and history, ex-students are invited to The Croydon Circle upon their 75th birthday.

Over a light lunch in College Hall, ex-students in their mid-seventies, eighties, nineties and beyond, came together to remember their days in black watch tartan, catch-up with old friends, meet new friends and speak with current students.

What is always lovely about our alumni events, is that ex-students reconnect with those they haven't seen in several years or perhaps decades.

We had friends reconnecting for the first time since graduation more than 50 years ago and we welcomed three sisters – Barbara, Judy and Janet Logan – who had not been back to the school all together, since the 1940s.

Dr Burgis welcoming ex-students and guests to the 2018 Croydon Circle Luncheon in College Hall.

L to R: 2019 School Captain Ling Ling Lin, Vice-Captain Sarah Sweeting, Janet Snodgrass (Logan, 1957), Judy Lance (Logan, 1949), Barbara Capel (Logan, 1947), Dr Burgis.

L to R: Fiona Maher (Munckton, 1982), Libby Tugwell (Harley, 1979), Yvette Jraij, Gwen Bosler (Stuart, 1949), Philippa Zingales (Harris, 1998), Elizabeth Gregory (Cornish, 1961), Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955) and Rae Gower (Hoore, 1949).

PLC Sydney’s Annual Card Day at Pymble Golf Club.

L to R: Heather Ryan (Walker, 1949), Rae Gower (Hoore,1949), Rosemary Rutherford (Corney, 1950).

L to R: Annette Green (Fagen, 1958), Nan Lewis (Ferguson, 1956), Nan Atkinson (McCredie, 1946).

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archiBald ‘art BeFore hours’ tourone of our most popular events is the Esu’s Private ‘Art before Hours’ tour of the annual Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. We had the opportunity to explore the exhibition with expert commentary from our Guides adding so much to the experience. We learnt interesting snippets of information about both the subject of the painting and the artist. Following the tour, we came together for a lovely morning tea at Chiswick at the Gallery to discuss the artworks and catch-up with friends. We are planning to hold two tours next year – a 'before hours' tour as always and we will be adding an evening 'after hours' tour. 2019 tour dates are shared on page 36.

generations BreaKFastin september, the Esu held its inaugural Generations breakfast in Marden to celebrate all the family connections within our community. Current students from Kindergarten to Year 11 attended, with their mothers, grandmothers and aunts who are ex-students. It was lovely to see multiple-generations of families meeting and reminiscing about their shared time as students at the College. This will be an annual event in the College calendar.

L to R: Michelle Ladkins (Rope, 1996) with her mother Ailsa Rope (Hickey, 1967), Virginia Chotar (Tripolone, 1996) with her daughter Isabella Chotar (Year 5) and ESU President, Marina Clark (Lvoff, 1978).

Karen Kwan (1992) with her daughters Kiera and Skye McCalister (Year 4 and Kindergarten).

L to R: Kaye Browne (Haynes, 1960) with Annie Martin (Leckie, 1988).

Wilma Wakeley (Bates, 1954) with her granddaughter, Chloe Housman (Year 9).

ESU Cookies.

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JErSEY dAY: Saturday 9 March

CArd dAY: Monday 18 March

ESU GEnErATionS BrEAKFAST: Wednesday 28 August

ThE CroYdon CirCLE LUnCh: Tuesday 22 October

ArChiBALd ToUrS:

• Evening Tour Wednesday 15 May, 6.00 pm

• Morning Tour Thursday 29 August, 9.00 am

hEriTAGE wALK And MorninG TEA: Tuesday 30 July

*dates are subject to change

saVe the date: 2019

reunions in 2019The following years are invited to celebrate their decade reunions on Jersey day, 9 March 2019 from 4.00 pm – 6.00 pm:

Class of 2009 – 10 Year Reunion





Classes of 1959 and 1949 will celebrate over lunch from 11.30 am:



For more information contact [email protected] or call 02 9704 5635

inTersTaTe conTacTs

AdELAidE Mary Minchin (Brazier, 1961) (08) 8556 4859 / [email protected]

BriSBAnE Petrina hawkins (Campbell, 1970) [email protected]

CAnBErrA Suzanne Clubb (1957) (02) 6238 1531 / [email protected]

GoLd CoAST Jeni Bone (Payne, 1987) (07) 5526 0092 / 0412 230 002 / [email protected]

MELBoUrnE Leonie Gillett (Cresswell, 1961) (03) 9848 5058 / [email protected]

nEw EnGLAnd/norThErn diSTriCT helen Loveday (Kinross, 1949) (02) 6721 0583

SUnShinE CoASTPhilippa Zingales (Harris, 1998) (02) 9704 5635 / [email protected]

wESTErn AUSTrALiAJulia hewson (Webster, 1968) (08) 9295 2634 / [email protected]

rivErinAJane Crichton (1983) 0417 218 221

If you would like to volunteer to coordinate a reunion or be the key contact for PLC Sydney alumni in your area, please contact the Alumni Office on 02 9704 5635 or [email protected] for more details.

sTay in Touch – uPdaTe your deTails TodayVisit: www.plc.nsw.edu.au/alumni/stay-in-touch

Join our Alumni and ESu Group on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/PLCSydneyAlumni

Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/plcsydneyalumni

Update your LinkedIn profile with PLC Sydney and follow us here: www.linkedin.com/school/plc-sydney

did you know that our alumni are a powerful network of over 10 000 women around the world?

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2018 Jersey day reunions around the country

sydney On Jersey Day, we welcomed the classes 1958, 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998 and 2008 back to the College to celebrate their decade Reunions.

Class of 1958 Reunion.

Class of 1968 Reunion.

Class of 1978 Reunion. Class of 1988 Reunion.

Class of 1998 Reunion.Class of 1998 Boarders.

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western australiaTwelve ladies from Perth and country surrounds attended our annual get together at Tarts Café, Northbridge. We always look forward to getting together, much fun and laughter catching up on the happenings of the last 12 months. Highlight of the day was having Lesley Meldrum join us. She gave us an update about school happenings – her memory is so fantastic!

sunshine coastThe Sunshine Coast lived up to its name on Wednesday 18 July as our small group met at The Boat Shed at Cotton Tree. The restaurant delivers perfect views of the Maroochy River, sand and glimpses of the ocean. Special guest was Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955) who, always regales us with snippets from PLC in the past, and up to date news. As we were all students or staff during Miss Whitlam’s years as Principal we shared memories of her, acknowledging the long and interesting life she led.

1971 BoArdErS EnJoYinG A wEEKEnd AwAY on ThE Mid-norTh CoAST

L to R: Libby Gemmell (Wannan), Sally Lambell (Dummer), Judy Slacksmith (Shorter), Honor Croaker (Broomfield), Pip Goldman (Cameron), Judy Williams (Austin), Libby Cuza (McCarron), Sue Dimock (Fisher), Merren Dargan (Abrahams), Keitha Lomas (McAdam/Cunningham), Yvonne McNamara (Scott), Cheryl Siepen (Dowson), Kerrie Gatt (Jones), Barb Gold (Armour), Cathy Douglas (Campbell).

BrisBaneOur numbers were few this year with just four Brisbane ex-students enjoying lunch. We had a great time talking and catching up at the Hundred Acre Bar at St Lucia Golf Course.

L to R: Alison Bird (Turner, 1953), Anne Lawson (McConnell, 1960), Heather Wilson (Ainsworth, 1950), Kay Ralph (Teasdell, 1970), Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955) (seated), Sylvia Mills (1968), Pene Wood (Longshaw, 1964), Sue Morris (Andison, 1967) (seated), Mary Hookey (Holder, 1974), Julia Hewson (Webster, 1968), Barbara Barton (McMurchie, 1968) and Ros Kruger (Bonnette, 1964).

L to R: Jean Atchison (McKay, 1958), Trina Hawkins (Campbell, 1970), Jenille Ball (Campbell, 1968) and Margaret Johnson (Boswell, 1968).

L to R: Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955), Jenille Ball (Campbell, 1968), Trina Hawkins (Campbell, 1970), Jane O'Hare (Provan, 1970), Libby Gemmell (Wannan, 1971), Rosie Morris (1976).

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alumni in asiaThis year Dr Burgis and Mrs Catherine Marvell, Director of Enrolments, travelled to Hong Kong and China to hold a reception for both prospective parents, current students and their families, and our alumni in each location.

hong Kong: Mrs Catherine Marvell and Dr Burgis with Andrea Fay (Wang, 1997), Maddie Trussell (2004), Claire Brown (Hodgekinson, 2011) and fellow ex-students.

Shanghai: Jiauya Yang, Emily Zhao (Year 10 2008), Yibing Chen (2013), Alice Bao (Year 10, 2018), Yingying ‘Yvonne’ Chen (2012), Wenjia ‘Jessica’ Yu (2012), Luyao Qin, guests, Dr Burgis and Mrs Catherine Marvell.

esu morning tea at the landingsESU President Marina Clark and new Director of Alumni Relations, Philippa Zingales (Harris, 1998) travelled to The Landings in Turramurra for a lovely morning tea with several ex-students who live in the village and surrounding suburbs.

canBerra This year Canberra held their annual luncheon at the Brindabella Hills Winery on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River on the outskirts of Canberra. The large group of ex-students enjoyed an excellent meal in beautiful surroundings.

Those present were Dorothy Fletcher (Roberts, 1949), Margaret Johnson (1958), Janet Campbell (Hotson, 1954), Margaret Dent (Goodacre, 1961), Wendy Gray (Rabone, 1957), Margaret Erickson (Recknell, 1955), Helen Emanuel (French, 1951), Lois Maiden (Gale, 1964), Adeline Wiles (Minter, 1949), Roslyn ‘Roz’ Woods (Mortimore, 1979), Judith Kelly (Fletcher, 1980),

L to R: Nan Atkinson (McCredie, 1946), Patricia Paterson (Hill, 1945), Patricia Sharp (1945), Philippa Zingales (Harris, 1998), Carol Lyons (Schiess, 1956), Lesley Meldrum (Morgan, 1955), Betty Davis (Thompson, 1938), Winsome Menzies (Wood, 1947).

Barbara Palmer (Rooks, 1980), Shirley Rooks, Margaret Sedgwick OAM (Bull, 1955), Elizabeth Bassingthwaighte (Bull, 1959), Jean Caldwell (Carter, 1957), Suzanne Clubb (1956) and Anne

Emerson Elliott an ex-student from PLC Goulburn.

Next year’s luncheon will be held on the last Saturday in May.

hong Kong

Shanghai

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where are they now?

sinCE LEAVinG sCHooL i HAVE… Obtained two degrees in my chosen field of viticulture and winemaking. I have worked making wine in numerous wine regions of Australia, New Zealand, America and France, and had the honour of meeting and working with some exceptional people within my industry from all over the world. I have been lucky to travel the world extensively in my previous role as both a winemaker and commercial director of two wine brands. In 2015 I started my consulting business and am developing my own wine brand to be launched in 2019.

I was married in 2007 and have a fantastic and supportive husband, and two cheeky and very energetic boys who keep me on my toes and very busy in conjunction with the business. Thus why I need a glass of wine at the end of the day!

WHAt roLE HAs Your tiME At PLC sYdnEY PLAYEd in Your LiFE And/or HoW HAs Your EduCAtion At PLC sYdnEY sHAPEd tHE PErson You ArE todAY?I am so grateful for my time, experiences and friendships forged at PLC, and look back at my time there with so much joy and gratitude.

Being at PLC taught me to be a confident, driven, well spoken, meaningful contributor to society and gave me a want and need to continue on my learning journey throughout life.

WHAt AdViCE WouLd You GiVE to our studEnts todAY About tHEir JournEY bEYond PLC sYdnEY?Take the road less travelled. It will open up exciting journeys and adventures and take you where you least expect. I was a ‘shire’ girl from Sydney who found herself at university in Wagga Wagga and then subsequently travelled and worked all over Australia and the world. Meeting exceptional people, eating amazing food and making and trying some of the best wines in the world.

You must be resilient. Not everything will go your way and in some cases seldom does. So be strong, never give up and remember from adversity there is opportunity, even though you may not see it at the time, there will be a silver lining.

And network, network, network!

soME oF MY FAVouritE MEMoriEs FroM sCHooL ArE…That’s a hard one, as there are so many! One that makes me laugh is being dressed up as Posh Spice for the interhouse Gymnastics competition, putting on a fantastic performance with my fellow ‘band mates’ (Baby, Sporty, Ginger and Scary) and then having the most ungraceful fall on the exit in front of the whole school. Of course it was filmed and then played at the start of all my classes for the next week. At least Ferguson won!

CurrEnt oCCuPAtion: Winemaker/Wine consultant

CurrEnt CitY oF rEsidEnCE: Sydney, Australia

KaTe day (Joyce, 1998)

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sinCE LEAVinG sCHooL i HAVE… I left PLC in July 1979 to begin a year as an AFS Exchange Student. I graduated from high school in Illinois and it took a few years to be invited to join the ex-students as I didn’t graduate from PLC.

On returning from the US I started my career in holiday and flight reservations at TAA, now Qantas domestic. I had planned to do nursing but after living overseas I wanted the independence of a wage and didn’t want to study full-time. Within a couple of years I’d finished a marketing course part-time at TAFE and realised that was the career I wanted. I had a number of roles promoting Australia internationally as a travel destination before giving in to my interest in health and taking a role marketing surgical and medical products for 3M Australia. My passion and business skills aligned for the first time.

I owned a café, architectural restoration business, had two children, and taught business subjects before enrolling at university at 29. I was already consulting in strategy and business improvement and that continued for 20 years. As a single parent being self-employed gave me the flexibility and professional satisfaction I needed. I also moved up the career ladder much faster than would have been possible as an employee and I didn’t hit the

glass ceiling. My clients include global corporations, government departments and for-purpose organisations. I never use the terms not-for-profit or charity as they too must make a profit to deliver on their purpose and mission.

Being self-employed became less important as Jason and Kate got older. I decided to go in-house, taking a national executive role at Mission Australia. I was only interested in working in a social justice or for-purpose organisation. A head-heart connection is essential. Since then I’ve had the extraordinary privilege of diverse leadership across the health, community and education sectors.

I’ve stood as a candidate in various government elections in the last 25-30 years. That, combined with my volunteer and paid work, resulted in my inclusion in the Who's Who of Australian Women. Many of us were at PLC during the Freda Whitlam years which says so much about the culture she created and the certainty that girls can, and should, do anything. I look forward to PLC having a woman principal again.

In 2017 I transitioned to the community housing sector. Nothing in life is possible without a safe, affordable roof over your head. I’m proud to call myself a property developer as The Housing Trust provides homes and support services for people on very low to moderate incomes—women and families fleeing domestic violence, people living with mental illness and disabilities, and increasingly working people who simply can’t afford the rents in greater Sydney.

I’ve served on a number of boards and my current roles include an expert appointment to an industry superannuation fund and various community organisations.

WHAt roLE HAs Your tiME At PLC sYdnEY PLAYEd in Your LiFE And/or HoW HAs Your EduCAtion At PLC sYdnEY sHAPEd tHE PErson You ArE todAY?

I vividly remember Miss Whitlam telling us ‘the greatest privilege of attending PLC is the opportunity it gives (you) to serve others’.

That message has had a profound impact on me.

Culture comes from the top and Miss Whitlam’s leadership meant it was perfectly normal for an organisation (PLC) to benefit from the skills and dedication of someone like Audrey Keown. That she was in a wheelchair was irrelevant and we genuinely took no notice. Nor was it noteworthy to have Miss Tan, ethnically Indonesian, in the Languages Faculty. Forty years later and many workplaces still aren’t diverse or inclusive.

Although I tried to avoid them, Miss Keown’s classes prepared me for lifetime of public speaking and media interviews. When I was at school in Illinois I came second in the state public speaking championships. My topic was the inappropriateness of America’s gun laws and the misinterpretation of the ‘right to bear arms’ in the American Constitution. The seeds of my activism and advocacy were planted in Croydon.

I heard about the AFS exchange program from a girl in the year above me. Why wouldn’t I apply? PLC reinforced the message I heard at home—chase your dreams. The cross-cultural experience, maturity and resilience I gained made that the most significant year of my life.

I feel incredibly lucky to have sustained close school friendships over the years. My daughter Kate is also an ex-student. Although her PLC experience was very different from mine, we are different women and the school changed enormously between our enrolments. We have a shared tradition and that’s incredibly special.

WHAt AdViCE WouLd You GiVE to our studEnts todAY About tHEir JournEY bEYond PLC sYdnEY?Never stop learning and don’t think academic qualifications are enough. Take roles that really interest you, both paid and voluntary, and learn from them. Find people who will tell you the truth about your development needs, not just your strengths. Have fun and love unconditionally. Your heart will be broken, life can be terribly unfair and you don’t have rights without responsibilities. Get used to it, and get on with it.

CurrEnt oCCuPAtion: CEO and Company Director

CurrEnt CitY oF rEsidEnCE: Sydney, Australia

Michele adair (richardson, 1979)

41


1 Meta Street Croydon NSW 2132

Phone (+612) 9704 5666 Fax (+612) 9744 0519

[email protected]

www.plc.nsw.edu.au

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MP;PR3231;-2018-07

conTenTs | issue 8 suMMer 2018

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Transcript of conTenTs | issue 8 suMMer 2018