achievement - Kilvington Grammar...
Transcript of achievement - Kilvington Grammar...
Winter 2011
achievement the Kilvington way
editor’s notes
contents
2 Leila Road, Ormond Victoria 3204Telephone (03) 9578 6231Facsimile (03) 9578 3378Email [email protected] kilvington.vic.edu.au
CONTRIBUTIONS:
We would like to thank all the members of the community who
have contributed articles and information for this edition of K News,
including Grant Dawson, Jon Charlton, Teresa Deshon, Jacqui
Goldenberg, Caitlin O’Leary, Celia Gall, Dr Andrea Douglas, Karen
Bryce, Kristy Mortimer, Matt Brinson, Sarah Holper, Angela Ngo,
Kate Clinnick, Monique Collins, Bianca Mohan, Julianna Dubinsky,
Stephanie Moorhouse, Sololia Tesema, Tim Roberts, Annie Opray,
Lisa Carroll, Ellie Payne, Carissa Roussety, Alison Stroud, Emily
Donnelly, Revata Ilanko, Martine Walls and Michele Moorhouse.
DRIVEN TO SUCCEED Academic excellence at Kilvington 03
fROm ThE pRINCIpal Kilvington’s mission 07
ChaIRmaN’S REpORT Coeducational Kilvington 08
SChOOl CampS An integral part of Kilvington’s curriculum 09
RENOVaTION RECIpE Launching the ‘Eat, learn & play’ Appeal 10
aChIEVEmENTS Lunch at the Press Club, Top Designs and more… 12
ThE aRTS Fame: the Musical 14
STaff pROfIlES Introducing…Kristy Mortimer and Matt Brinson 16
kIlVINgTON CaRNIVal An outstanding success 18
paRENTS’ & fRIENDS’ aSSOCIaTION Mother’s Day, new Committee and more 19
OlD kIlVONIaNS Keeping in touch with Old Kilvonians 20
REUNIONS Reliving the memories 22
kEy DaTES fOR yOUR DIaRy Important 2011 dates to keep in mind 23
It’s often said that happiness lies in one’s ability
to understand one’s aspirations, and having the
courage to pursue one’s dreams and achieve personal
ambitions – whatever they might be.
In 1944, Emmeline Snively, director of the Blue Book
Modelling Agency, told modelling hopeful Norma Jean
Baker: ’You’d better learn secretarial work or else get
married.’ Had Norma accepted that advice and gave up
her dream of becoming an actress...she would have
never become Marilyn Monroe.
In 1962, four young musicians from a group called
‘The Beatles’ played their first record audition for the
executives of the Decca recording Company. The
executives were unimpressed, turning down the group
because they ’didn’t like their sound.’ ‘Groups of guitars
were on the way out‘, the Record Executives said. How
wrong they turned out to be!
The journey toward achievement can be full of
excitement, creative effort and the joy of the final
victory. Yet more than is often thought, success can
only be achieved through trials, tribulations and hard
work. The confidence and courage to go on, regardless
of major setbacks, are paramount in this journey. It also
helps to be surrounded by people who share your vision
and attitude toward life – this makes a huge difference
to our ability to gain inner strength, build up confidence,
avoid fear and continue tirelessly pursuing our dreams.
Kilvington has a strong, resilient community that supports all its members
and encourages them to exceed their own expectations. Following the
philosophy that personal achievement is largely the product of steadily
raising one’s levels of aspiration, expectation...and perspiration, our
students and staff are always encouraged to ’explore, dream and discover’.
This inspirational School spirit is evident on every page of the
current edition of K News. It can be expressed by individual success in
pursuing a career goal, such as the story of Old Kilvonian Andrea Douglas
in ’Under the Microscope‘ (see page 20); or the remarkable golfing
success for 11-year-old Shanaiah Fernando (story on page 13); or our
2010 students’ experience of getting into their dream university courses
(feature story on page 5); or Year 9 students’ experience of overcoming
their fear of scaling a formidable wall (read about this on page 9).
Personal success stories inevitably make a big contribution to every team
victory. The accomplishments of each of the sixty students performing
in Fame: the Musical (see the story on pages 14–15) produced an electrifying performance that was greatly
appreciated by audiences over three nights earlier this year.
The March School Carnival represented a proud achievement for a group of committed parents who organised
this year’s event in a very short space of time. The event’s success was largely due to their incredible dedication,
based on a desire to create a truly enjoyable community day and display Kilvington’s many strengths to the
public. The willingness of many students, staff and other community members to help with this event made
the Carnival a day to remember for all. (Read about the event on page 18).
The many inspirational stories of Kilvington students in this issue of K News are testament to our School’s focus
on achievement and excellence. I look forward to bringing you many more success stories in future editions.
Mrs Bo Rutecki
EDITOR
‘Sail away from the Safe harbor.
CatCh the trade windS in your SailS.
explore. dream. diSCover.’ – mark twain
02 | kilvington news
driven to succeed…
academic excellence at kilvingtonSarah holper – fulfilling her deStiny
Sarah hoper is kilvington’s 2010 School Dux, awarded
for achieving a perfect 99.95 ENTER score.
Sarah understood the importance of VCE for her future,
and had been always careful to remain ahead of the
game. although she found year 12 intense, she ‘never
felt overwhelmed.’ To current VCE students, she
advises: ‘If you keep on top of homework, you don’t
need to cram.’
Sarah has always known where she’s headed and how
to get there. Choosing her VCE subjects was easy,
‘because I had pretty defined interests. I was mainly
interested in Science, but also languages – and was
particularly keen on keeping up my french so that
I could travel overseas.’ Throughout VCE, she kept
her major goal in view. ‘Ever since I’ve been at
kilvington, I’ve wanted to do med’, Sarah says.
Now enrolled in monash University’s Bachelor of
medicine and Surgery, Sarah is quickly learning how
to handle university. The atmosphere is completely
different from school. She enjoys the increased
freedom. ‘I love it’, she exclaims. ‘It’s more suited to
the way that I learn, especially when you’ve worked
for thirteen years in order to do a particular course.’
Sarah fondly remembers her time at kilvington.
‘The small classes were great – firstly, because you
got individual attention, but also because they
were so close-knit…it wasn’t embarrassing to ask a
question.’ help was always at hand, as ‘the teachers
were passionate and dedicated.’
Sarah’s transition to university has been
surprisingly smooth: in the first week, her entire
class attended ‘a compulsory orientation camp,
during which we got to know everyone.’ and,
dispelling the myth that university life involves
constant nose-to-the-grindstone labour, Sarah
found the workload a pleasant surprise. ‘I have much
more spare time in uni than I did in year 12 to do
the things I want – such as meet friends, go to the
movies, or see comedy festival shows’, she says.
When asked whom she admires, Sarah is
straightforward. ‘all those who have some sort of
drive and follow through with it – people who want
to do something, and take steps to achieve it.’
That description sounds an awful lot like
Sarah herself.
In may, Sarah attended the 2010 VCE premier’s
awards ceremony, during which she was presented
with two awards: a french award and a Top all
Rounder VCE award. It was a very proud moment for
Sarah, her family and, of course, the School.
approximately 50,000 students across the State sat
VCE exams last year, with only 20 receiving the
highest aTaR.
‘I admire all those who have some sort of drive and
follow through with it.’ Sarah Holper, OK 2010
| 03
foCuS on aCademiC exCellenCe
Kilvington Grammar School has a strong focus on
academia and our students and staff work very hard
throughout the secondary schooling years to achieve
success at VCE level. VCE success does not just come
from one year of hard work: excellent teaching as well
as solid study and work habits are developed over time
starting from Year 7. Knowledge and skills are refined
over a number of years, so that when students reach
Year 12 they are intellectually and emotionally ready
for the demands and challenges of the VCE.
Kilvington‘s educational philosophy begins and ends
with each student’s uniqueness within the School
community. Deputy Principal Teresa Deshon says,
‘We celebrate all students’ individuality, and the
value they bring to our learning community.
Kilvington teachers always take into account whom
they are teaching, not just what they are teaching:
our aim is to help each student move smoothly
along the learning continuum.’
Supporting individual learning
Kilvington teachers understand their students.
They are experts in their specific disciplines, and are
able to match teaching styles to student needs. Every
classroom provides students with meaningful access
to course content: teachers frequently use visual/
graphical organisers, group work, role plays, oral
presentations, textual, visual and auditory class
materials, and Information Communication
Technology (ICT). Students are frequently offered a
personalised choice of tasks and activities.
Students, in Year 11 and 12 in particular, are exposed to
a more adult style of teaching and learning where
classroom environments, both in operation and tone,
balance the seriousness about schoolwork with
flexibility, engagement and celebration of success.
The operation of our VCE classrooms enables students
and teachers to share responsibility so that the
environment maximises learning for each member.
learning partnerShipS
To ensure effective student-teacher partnerships,
Kilvington features a number of programs designed
to maximise VCE students’ learning opportunities.
A two-week VCE ’Transition‘ program, which operates
at the end of Term 4, gives Year 10 and 11 students a
head start by outlining the work to be undertaken.
As a result, Kilvington VCE students return more
focused after the summer holidays.
During Transition, VCE students attend a series
of seminars and workshops related to Study Skills,
Goal Setting and Time Management. The School uses
experts to further equip students with skills and
strategies to achieve their personal best whilst
coping with the challenges of VCE.
The Supervised Study Room is a successful initiative
which allows VCE students with ’free‘ sessions to study
in a peaceful, supervised environment. This facility
helps students study, revise and seek assistance during
‘free’ sessions, reduce the amount of home study time
required and balance school and home life.
Kilvington’s cocurricular Academic Clubs provide
Senior students with opportunities for one-to-one
Mathematics and English tutoring. Of particular value
to VCE English students is the Term 2 and 3 Essay
Club, in which they develop essay writing skills in
preparation for the English Exam.
This year’s VCE English classes will benefit greatly
from the services of Alice Pung, acclaimed writer
and lawyer, who is working with Kilvington in an
author-in-residence capacity. Ms Pung edited and
contributed to Growing Up Asian in Australia, which
is currently being studied by Year 12s. This May,
Ms Pung conducted a series of writing workshops
and lectures that helped students prepare for
their written assessments.
praCtiSe, praCtiSe, praCtiSe!
Two formal practice examination periods for Year 12
students occur during Kilvington’s academic year.
Teachers conduct and mark trial exams under official
conditions, giving students the chance to review
course content and exam techniques.
The three-hour practice General Achievement Test
(GAT), administered in both Year 11 and 12, provides
students with independent feedback from an
accredited external marker and gives them valuable
experience with VCAA exam format. These VCE Exam
Success programs comprehensively prepare Year 11
and 12 students for examinations.
ConCluSion
Whilst Kilvington recognises the importance of
achieving an excellent VCE score, the School equally
emphasises each student’s personal and intellectual
growth. The knowledge and skills gained through
a Kilvington education help students become
successful lifelong learners.
Teresa Deshon
DEpuTy pRIncIpal
For many students, the years of primary and secondary education culminate in VCE.
The work done during these two years is vital for their future careers, and sustained
focus is paramount.
The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) provides diverse pathways to tertiary study,
training or employment. The VCE is awarded to most Victorian students on satisfactory
completion of secondary education. There are over 90 VCE subjects, all of which can
be studied from Year 10 to Year 12. This range encompasses Unit 1 & 2 and Unit 3 & 4 subjects,
which are assessed both internally by schools and externally by Victorian Curriculum
and Assessment Authority (VCAA) examinations. Unit 3 & 4 students receive a study score
out of 50, from which the Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre (VTAC) calculates each
student’s Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
vCethe crucial years
04 | kilvington news
angela ngo
– a fine balanCe
Angela Ngo thrives on
challenge, and her dedication
was rewarded with
outstanding results. So, what’s
her secret? ‘My own timetable
included time to relax and
time to study’, she says.
‘After Miss Cleghorn told me to “let your brain relax”,
I found things much easier.’ Work still takes priority,
however: ‘If you’re chilling too much, you’re
not doing your best.’
Angela urges VCE students to ‘use your resources’.
At Kilvington, ‘the teachers are willing to stay after
school, during lunchtimes and holidays to help
you…so don’t feel stupid asking for help.’ Above all,
she appreciated Kilvington’s ‘smaller classes, which
gave the teachers more opportunity to provide
one-on-one assistance.’
Accepting a university place was a big decision for
Angela, who turned down an Accounting Cadetship
because she was ‘not ready to work five days a week
and study as well.’ She’s currently enrolled in
Commerce at Monash, while doing a Biomed
subject ‘to keep my options open.’
Angela found university’s increased freedom ‘quite
a shock to the system’, and initially struggled ‘to find
the motivation to get everything done.’ Yet her
determination is paying off: although she finds
Biomed challenging, for example, she’s determined
‘to stick with it until the end of the year.’
This hardworking personality is coupled
with a social conscience: she feels strongly about
society’s unhealthy obsession with ‘slim, toned
and beautiful women’, which is ‘causing girls
to have low self-esteem.’ As a result, she
observes, ‘many teenage girls look up to the
wrong role models.’
Angela sees teachers as far better examples.
She strongly believes that ‘educators don’t get
enough credit for how much they help society’,
and greatly admires their efforts ‘to form a safe and
pleasant environment for students.’ Whatever
path Angela takes, she’s certain to change things
for the better.
Kate ClinniCK
– defying expeCtationS
Kate’s always taken the road less
travelled. This year, she decided
to defer her place in an Arts and
Science Degree at the University
of Sydney to take a gap year.
But Kate isn’t planning to
visit picturesque locations.
‘In August, I’m leaving to go to Romania’, she says.
‘My first month there is a journalism placement with
an English-language magazine called The Village.
If I’m lucky, one of my pieces will get in.’ Her plans don’t
end there. ‘Two months after that, I’m doing a Care
placement. I’ve requested to work with children – but
at this stage I’m not sure how old they are, or exactly
where it will be.’
Kate used innovative study techniques during her final
year. ‘I bought cue cards with a ring binder and made
really detailed notes of everything – my mum quizzed
me on them every other day’, she recalls. Practical
experience came in handy, too, because ‘If you’re doing
a language, it helps having someone you can talk over
the phone with.’ Parents aren’t always the answer,
though ‘Sometimes their pronunciation just makes
you laugh!’, she says.
During exams, Kate did everything possible to maintain
focus. ‘I avoided the Common Room and listened to my
iPod to block everything else out,’ she remembers. And
contrary to popular belief, Kate advises current students
’not to cram too hard the night before – if you’re too
tired, you’ll do badly.’ No matter how hard you study,
she notes that ‘if you don’t enjoy it, you’re not going
to get a good score.’
Kilvington’s study initiatives helped Kate immensely
during VCE. ‘They started a study room just for Year
Twelves,’ she says. ‘It helped that you had to go there
during free periods, as it forced you to study.’ Kate found
Kilvington’s teachers extremely helpful. ‘A lot of us had
mentors, and my Literature teacher would take us out to
lunch to see how we were doing. During holidays,
teachers would often come in for extra time. My Maths
teacher, Ms Cole, was really good at this – but I felt really
bad when I saw that she had her foot in a cast!’
Kate’s now busy working as a Receptionist for the
Brighton Yacht Club, and is about to take on another
part-time job. Although her gap year’s just getting
started, Kate’s already well on her way.
angela harriSon
– graCe under preSSure
Angela has always maintained a
packed schedule, and VCE didn’t
slow her down one bit. ‘I’m a big
advocate for balance’, she says.
‘I wouldn’t have done as well if
I’d stopped all my other interests
– I had an amazing year with friends
and activities, so was always in a positive frame of mind.’
Angela remembers the challenge to stay cool, calm and
collected. ‘I’m a stresser, but I think it’s important to be
able to sit back and look at the bigger picture. Obviously
everything was very important, but on a larger scale it
wasn’t the be all and end all’, she recalls. And when the
pressure started to rise, Angela had some sure-fire
remedies to keep the jitters at bay. ‘I played sport a lot,
and took part in debating and productions – that was
a great release of stress.’
Now enrolled in a Science Scholars’ Degree at Monash
University, Angela acknowledges that her new life has
required significant changes. ‘It’s a lot more independent,
with lots of people that you don’t know and probably
won’t see again.’ The contrast with Kilvington’s caring
environment couldn’t be clearer. ‘School is more about
you, as everyone is working to help you achieve your
best. At uni, they can’t focus on the individual.’
Although it’s a challenge keeping track of old friends,
Angela believes it’s worth the effort. ‘I do keep in touch
with quite a few of them. I miss them a lot, but we see
each other quite regularly – a few are at Monash, so
we can have lunch.’ And although meeting people was
difficult initially, ‘once I established some friends it was
all good’, she says. Yet Angela acknowledges the
uniqueness of the friendships she made at Kilvington:
‘You take for granted the connections you’ve made…
it’s hard to develop such a deep connection again.’
Though an optimist, Angela is also aware of the
difficulties facing today’s youth. ‘I think there is a lot
of pressure put on young people today. The world is
getting more fast-paced, and it’s easy to lose sight of
what’s important, what it all means in the end, and
why you’re doing it.’
Angela has already made tentative plans. ‘I’m pretty
confident that I’ll go on to do an Honours degree and
a PhD – although I’m not sure yet whether I want to
stay in a lab for my whole life’, she says. Angela may
not have mapped out her future, but she’s heading
there with confidence.
our 2010 high achieverslast year, we had a very impressive student cohort. The following students
performed exceptionally well at vCe level, and are now moving on to
make their marks in their areas of interest – further proof that a kilvington
education is the ideal preparation for life!
| 05
The outstanding 2010 VCE results exemplify Kilvington’s commitment to academic excellence. We also
acknowledge the efforts of our dedicated teachers, who have guided these students’ fruitful learning journeys.
Three Kilvington students received ATAR scores over 99 this year – a superb result. Special congratulations go to
Sarah Holper, who achieved a perfect VCE score of 99.95, including the maximum score of 50 in English, French
and Further Mathematics.
Kilvington’s 2010 VCE results are:
•ThehighestATAR(AustralianTertiaryAdmissionRank)was99.95
•6%ofstudentswereinthetop1%ofthestate
•24%ofstudentswereinthetop5%ofthestate
•41%ofstudentswereinthetop10%ofthestate
•27%ofstudyscoreswereover40
Kilvington is one of Victoria’s highest-achieving schools, demonstrating the dedication and commitment
of Kilvington’s students and teachers.
Universities
Courses
excellent 2010 VCE class results
The thorough preparation received by Kilvington students
leaves them particularly well-equipped to deal with the
unique challenges they will encounter in a tertiary
education environment. Many tertiary destinations in
2010 continue the previous trend of Kilvington students
choosing a wide variety of courses and places to study.
2010 tertiary destinations
Agriculture
Architecture
Arts
Arts/Science
Arts/Commerce
Arts /Law
Beauty Therapy
Biomedical Science/Commerce
Biomedicine
Commerce
Commerce/Law
Commerce/Science
Commercial Cookery
Media
Psychology
Health Science
Physiotherapy
Medicine
Osteopathy
Nursing
Paramedicine
Photography
Science
Soclal Science
Real Estate
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06 | kilvington news
A new mission statement was
created for Kilvington last year, in
order to commemorate the move
to coeducation and explain the
School’s educational philosophy.
As each concept in this mission statement is integral
to the whole, I would like to elaborate on the individual
elements that form a Kilvington education.
aCademiC exCellenCe
Kilvington is renowned for its impressive record of
academic excellence, with last year’s exceptional Year
12 VCE results strongly continuing in this tradition.
Our graduate VCE Class of 2010 performed
superbly,with41%ofstudentsachievingascoreof
over 90 on the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank
(ATAR),24%ofstudentsachievingascoreofover95,
and27%ofallstudyscoresover40.Wecongratulate
our VCE Class of 2010, and thank our dedicated
teaching staff for supporting these outstanding
academic achievements.
The School continues to offer engaging and
creative learning programs. We have recently
introduced new and innovative projects entitled
Writing In and For the Community, LEGO Mindstorms
and Our Sustainable World. The latter aims
to help students understand the importance of
sustainability through environmental management
and conservation, ecosystem services, eco-buildings/
cities, ethical consumerism, green technologies and
renewable energy.
a Caring family Community
Kilvington fosters a uniquely caring, family-oriented
community, with teachers and students providing a
warm welcome to all those attending or visiting the
School. Boys attending Kilvington’s Junior School for the
first time have benefited immensely from Kilvington’s
open and friendly attitude to new arrivals. We are proud
of our students’ efforts to look out for one another.
The Kilvington Carnival, and Open Day, in March
was a genuine family affair and an outstanding
success, with hundreds of people visiting the School.
It was fantastic to see so many students and parents
participating in activities and enjoying themselves
on the day. I can’t remember ever having seen so many
people camping on the Green or strolling around the
School. It was most encouraging to have over 100
families register for a tour, confirming the high level of
public interest in coeducational Kilvington. I would like
to thank all parents and students for attending the
Carnival or for volunteering on one of our Open Days.
Particularly warm thanks go to all members of the PFA
Organising Committee for their hard work – and to the
weather for smiling on us!
Strength of CharaCter
Kilvington students are known for their respect,
compassion and kindness toward others. We strive to
cultivate young people of depth, strength, integrity and
character, and it is immensely rewarding to see these
valuable personal qualities emerging in our students.
Kilvington’s educational program provides students with
the opportunities to develop the diverse skills and
personal qualities needed for lifelong success. The
School’s innovative curriculum provides a wide selection
of activities and a variety of cocurricular programs,
Performing Arts and sport. Students are given many
opportunities to develop their creative and analytical
thinking abilities, as well as their communication and
collaborative skills. Our recent camps provided good
examples of Kilvington giving students the chance to
experience different environments, learn outside the
classroom, and build their self-confidence and leadership
capacity. Kilvington’s ambitious educational scope
reflects our holistic approach to teaching young
people, based on a firm belief in the importance of
a well-rounded character.
Coeducational Kilvington is off to a wonderful start.
Our emphasis is on academic excellence within a
strong, caring and family-friendly community culture.
Our belief in instilling excellence of character in young
people has struck a chord, both with current community
members and many parents who are new to the School.
Our mission statement genuinely reflects who we are in
the present, and the School we aspire to be in the future.
Jon charlton
pRIncIpal
missionKilvington’s
’our mission is to inspire students to strive for academic excellence, and to nurture their aspirations in a caring, family-oriented community to become people of depth, strength, integrity and character.’
| 07
2011 iS proving to be another buSy and exCiting year.
The Board has been delighted with the reception that the reintroduction
of boys has been met with. During the Kilvington Carnival alone, we conducted
over one hundred tours for prospective students. The many positive comments
and messages of support we received during this time have been extremely
heartening. As we had anticipated, many parents are indeed looking for a
mid-sized coeducational private school, in which their children can strive for
academic excellence and grow into people of depth, strength, integrity and
character within a family-oriented community. By responding to the increased
level of opportunity and choice demanded by today’s parents, Kilvington
Grammar School perfectly fills this need.
The Board has identified six key goals to achieve over the next four years. They focus
on providing a creative teaching and learning environment at Kilvington, which
continues to foster academic and personal excellence. These goals are dependent
on Kilvington’s continuing ability to attract and retain quality teachers, as teaching
excellence is the single most powerful influence on student achievement outside
each student’s ability.
These goals also include a plan for future facilities development. To cater for rising
enrolment levels and modern learning styles, the Board is constantly seeking
opportunities to improve Kilvington’s facilities. The latest project is the
refurbishment of the Food Technology Centre. Funded by the Victorian Independent
Schools Block Grant Authority (BGA), in conjunction with bank borrowings,
the project will completely rejuvenate the facility and greatly benefit our Food
Technology students. The School is now seeking financial support for this project
from the School community. Throughout 2011, the Board will be overseeing
preparation of the next ‘School Masterplan’, which will form the blueprint for
building work over the next 10–15 years.
On your behalf, we offer our thanks to three Board members who have left the
Kilvington Board after its latest Annual General Meeting in April after contributing
many years of hard work and commitment: Paul Holper, John Allin and David Dean.
Their admirable dedication to our School, along with their unflagging loyalty and
hard work – particularly during the past months of major change – have been
greatly appreciated. David Collier also recently left the Board after one year of
service, and we thank him for his contributions over that year.
Finally, I would like to offer my personal thanks and congratulations to all
those who have helped make the first part of Kilvington’s coeducational journey
so successful. I am very much looking forward to accompanying you on the
next stage of the adventure.
Grant Dawson
chaIR Of ThE BOaRD
Kilvington
Coeducational kilvington has
received an overwhelmingly positive
public response: media coverage
has been extensive, enquiries
have tripled in the past six months,
and open Morning attendance
has tripled.
coeducational
08 | kilvington news
schoolcamps
School camp has been an integral part of Kilvington’s
curriculum for many years. Much thought and
preparation goes into the development of the camp
program to ensure the location and activities are
appropriate for each age level. It is vital that each camp
contains a balance of challenging physical activities,
group sessions and relaxation time.
Mrs Martine Walls, the Academic Dean of Physical
Education and Health and Fysh House Dean, attended
the Year 9 camp at the Cathedral Ranges, where the
girls went hiking and rock climbing. ‘Many students
initially feel out of their comfort zone, but they face
the challenges with courage and often achieve more
than they thought possible’, she said. Mrs Walls
commented that individuals gain confidence from
the group as they see each other attain success.
Students also develop a level of tolerance of people’s
differences and bond as a team. Martine went on to
say, ’The resilience shown on camps is just fantastic,
and it improves our students’ ability to bounce
back when things get tough.’
This year’s destinations included Canberra, Lorne,
Sorrento, the Grampians, Anglesea, Waratah Bay and
the Cathedral Ranges. Some students sleep in tents,
others in bungalows, and a lucky few in the relative
comfort of a guesthouse. Several tried to master the
art of surfing or African tribal dancing; others learnt to relax with tai chi and yoga.
Some sat in the hallowed chambers of Federal Parliament; others crouched in a
kayak trying to stay upright. Special friendships and memories are formed at camp
each year. Our Year 12 students spent a sentimental afternoon reminiscing about the
camping experiences they have had since they started at Kilvington. Students from
Year 3 to VCE rate their camp experiences very highly, saying:
‘It was too short.’
’I got to know other kids in the class, not just my close friends.’
’I learned it’s about respect.’
’It was awesome; I don’t get to fly interstate every day.’
’Seeing all the poppies at the War Memorial made me sad.’
’Finally I stood up and surfed, only for a couple of seconds, but it still counts.’
’The food was pretty good, especially the chocolate pudding.’
’Walking, walking, walking, so much walking.’
’I wasn’t sure I could do the flying fox, I was really happy when I did.’
’I didn’t have a pillow so I made one myself.’
’Camp Idol with two Justin Biebers was cool.’
At Kilvington, we do everything we can to help our students to become people of
depth, strength, integrity and character. The School Camp Program is an integral
part of achieving this aim.
From afar it resembles a military operation, with bus after bus lining up at the School ready to be loaded
with luggage, sleeping bags and students from all year levels. They depart for different destinations across
Australia, but one thing is for sure: those on board are in for a week they’ll never forget.
| 09
launching the
Renovation RecipeTake a well-worn 26-year-old food Technology centre
with ageing facilities. Stir through a healthy dollop
of school, community and government funding,
and add a big splash of a renowned
architect’s inspired cutting-edge
design. carefully fold in a new
state-of-the-art kitchen to
the mixture, ice with a tasty
outdoor cafe, and garnish with
a picturesque kitchen garden.
for best results, leave to
cool until february
2012…when it can
finally be enjoyed
by Kilvington’s
budding star
chefs!
10 | kilvington news
In Term 4, renovations of the Food Technology Centre
will begin to transform the Centre into a first-class
cooking facility for students. There has never been a
better time to do it. Interest in cooking is at an all-time
high, thanks to popular TV shows such as MasterChef
and My Kitchen Rules. The School’s wide-ranging
curriculum allows students to pursue their individual
passion and interests to the fullest, and this ultra-
modern, superbly-equipped kitchen facility will
allow them to maximise their learning opportunities.
Kilvington’s Food Technology program caters for
all levels: some students will forge careers in the
demanding restaurant and hospitality industries, while
others will enjoy learning the invaluable lifelong skill of
healthy and delicious cooking – it’s all about choice!
Karen Bryce, Kilvington’s Human Development and
Food Technology teacher, is very excited about the
renovation. The uptake of her course has increased
significantly over the years, and she expects the new
facilities will attract even more students. Ms Bryce said,
‘The renovation will provide a wonderful environment
to teach all students the skill of cooking, so they can
prepare nutritious meals both now and in the future.’
Kilvington’s Food Technology program begins in
Year 8, when students learn about food, nutrition,
teamwork in the kitchen, time management and
kitchen safety. International Cuisine is taught in Year 9,
and the emphasis shifts to meal planning in Year 10.
In VCE, the course’s scope expands to incorporate
aspects of food science and composition, product
development, regulations and food industry marketing.
Kilvington’s VCE results for the subject have been
exceptional: recent past students have received the
Premier’s Award for the achievement of a perfect VCE
score, and were invited to display their folios in the
prestigious Top Design exhibition at the Melbourne
Museum. Karen focuses on encouraging maximum
participation, and fostering the attitude that cooking
is a pleasure, not a chore. She chooses guest speakers
who will inspire her students to pursue the unique
challenges and possibilities of hospitality.
One student who has been motivated to pursue a
career as a chef is Monique Collins, who credits her
grandmother with inspiring her to cook. Currently
completing her VCE, Monique’s dream is to become
a pastry chef. This all started in Monique’s early
childhood, when she would make delicious meals
with her grandmother. Interestingly, Monique’s
vegetarianism doesn’t preclude her from preparing
meat-based dishes. She prefers making desserts, though,
as these let her express her creative side. (Her notoriously
sweet tooth might also have something to do with this).
As she says, ’A duck is a duck, but with a dessert you
can create anything!‘ Monique recently met Andriano
Zumbo, the renowned pastry chef, and hopes to gain
a placement with him next year. She’s already working
at a restaurant in Highett and cooking for Homesglen
TAFE’s college restaurant. Monique has excellent
things to say about Kilvington’s Food Technology
Program, and high praise for her teacher.
She credits Ms Bryce for allowing her to ‘not
only explore her culinary ambitions, but also
for helping when a stubborn sugar-coated pan
refused to cooperate.’ Even though the Food
Technology Centre renovation won’t be finished
before she graduates, Monique is chuffed that it
will allow future Kilvington students to scale even
more spectacular culinary heights!
we would liKe to aCKnowledge
and thanK all donorS for their Kind
donationS (deCember 2010 – april 2011).
Mr & Mrs H Ahn
Mr & Mrs P Argyriou
Mrs N Bais & Mr A Bais
Mr & Mrs S Bandla
Mr & Mrs A Barnes
Mr & Mrs A Basu
Mr & Mrs M Boschetti
Mr & Mrs J Broadbent
Mr R Broomfield & Ms L Sanders
Mr & Mrs D Burgoine
Mr & Mrs R Burns
Mr & Mrs F Cetrola
Mr & Mrs D Clarke
Mr & Mrs J Clarke
Mr & Mrs P Coburn
Mr & Mrs D Conser
Mr & Mrs N Corke
Mr J Crossingham & Ms A Mora
Mr J Curwen & Dr E Psihogios
Mrs & Mrs S Dayaratna
Mr & Mrs R De Nardis
Mr A Deng & Ms L Zhou
Mr & Mrs M Deng
Mr & Mrs J Dixon
Mr & Mrs M Doyle
Mr & Mrs D Durand
Mr & Mrs B Finnin
Mr & Mrs M Gamble
Mr A Glassel & Ms M Pascoe
Mr Y Gong & Mrs J Wang
Mr X Guo & Ms X Fu
Mr & Mrs J Hedger
Mr & Mrs R Hendy
Mr & Mrs K G Hill
Mr B Hu & Ms Y Zhao
Mr P Ingoldby
Mr & Mrs W James
Mr S Katpadi & Ms S Shenoy
Mr & Mrs P King
Mr & Mrs K Kinoshita
Mr & Mrs N Koh
Mr T Kok & Ms Y Lee
Mr & Mrs J Landwehr
Mr & Mrs J Mackie
Mr & Mrs T Maruno
Mr F Mattea
Ms L Matthews & Mr A Nicholls
Mr & Mrs S Mitrik
Ms B Mohan & Mr R Kurup
Mr & Mrs P Moorhouse
Mr & Mrs M Morris
Mr D Nguyen & Ms A Tran
Ms H Tran & Mr T Nguyen
Mr & Mrs V Nguyen
Mr J Norman & Ms R Whitfield
Mr & Mrs J O’Connor
Mr & Mrs R Odgers
Mr & Mrs P Owen
Mr & Mrs N Palaskas
Mr & Mrs I Palihakkara
Mr & Mrs A Parsamanesh
Mr & Mrs T Percy
Mr & Mrs A Petsis
Mr & Mrs R Pickthall
Mr & Mrs W Pietrzak
Mr & Mrs J Plesar
Mr & Mrs P Rechtman
Mr D Ren & Dr S Wang
Mr & Mrs S Robertson
Mr Z Romanis & Ms G Nadenbousch
Mrs R Salathiel
Mr F Salfate & Ms S Marasco
Mr P Santavanond & Ms S Phromma
Mr B Saville & Ms M McDonald
Mr A Shanks & Ms S Russell
Mr & Mrs T Sioukas
Mr & Mrs D Smith
Mr & Mrs S Smith
Mr & Mrs G Stone
Mr & Mrs S Sullivan
Mr & Mrs A Tabakman
Mr & Mrs W Talbot
Dr & Ms S Thomas
Mr W Tinker & Ms G Volkova
Mr & Mrs G Tsagournos
Mr & Mrs S Tucker
Dr & Mrs D Turner
Ms A Umanskaya & Mr V Volpert
Mr & Mrs J Vouros
Mr & Mrs G Wada
Ms J Wade & Mr T Mankey
Mr & Mrs D Winfield
Mr M Wong & Ms Y Torii
Mr & Mrs J Woods
Mr & Mrs S Wotherspoon
Mr & Dr W Wynter
Mr T Yin & Ms J Lam
Mr & Mrs K Yokota
Mr & Mrs Y Yoshizawa
Mr C Zhang & Ms F Luo
Mr Q Zhang & Ms T Shen
Ms S Zhao
Mr M Zikic & Ms D Johnson
If you would like to help launch Kilvington’s next
generation of superchefs on their way to stardom,
please support the ‘Eat, learn & play’ appeal.
To donate, please fill out the pledge form and use
the reply paid envelope enclosed.
for a confidential conversation about your
contribution, please call Bo Rutecki on 9578 6231
or email [email protected]
On behalf of the current and future ‘Masterchefs’
at Kilvington, we thank you very much!
| 11
exCellenCe in SCienCe
On the evening of Wednesday 9 March, Year 11
students Amelia Barrow, Cher Chen and Loreena Hem
were invited to attend the 2011 Graeme Clark Oration
and Dinner. The Oration was given by Professor Terry
Sejnowski (Professor of Biology and Neuroscience,
University of California, San Diego). His topics were the
workings of the brain, whether we are any closer to
building artificial brains, how our understanding of the
brain is transforming ideas about learning, the role of
social robots and the bionic eye.
Amelia, Cher and Loreena were invited, along with
four students from other schools as guests of VESKI
(Victorian Endowment for Science, Knowledge and
Innovation) having been recognised as science
students of excellence from their entries in the BHP
Billiton 2010 Science Awards. The evening gave the
students a chance to talk one-on-one over dinner, with
eminent science professionals such as the Dean of the
Faculty of Science at the University of Melbourne and
the CEO of St Vincent’s Hospital, as well as current
medicine and science university students. A rewarding
and enjoyable night was had by all.
‘art about town’ finaliStS
Late last year, a number of Kilvington students created
artworks to illustrate their local community in the hope
that theirs might be chosen for the front cover of the
Bayside Yellow Pages.
We were lucky enough to have two students reach the
finals and have their artworks on display in an
exhibition at the Gasworks Art Park. Giulia Oppedisano
from Year 11 and our Art Captain Gemma Mattea both
missed out on the cover, but are to be congratulated on
making it to the finals.
achievements
Press Club lunch with Mike QuigleyRecently, Kilvington students taking the Business Management Course were
lucky enough to join Mr Charlton in attending a Melbourne Press Club
luncheon. On this particular occasion, they heard Mr Mike Quigley, the
Executive Chairman of the National Broadband Network, present a speech.
Mr Quigley recently developed a new plan to utilise $36 billion to improve
the current internet across Australia, making it faster, capable of downloading
more megabytes in shorter time, and more efficient in general. The plan
sparked a mixed reaction and much debate in government circles and from
the general public. During his presentation Mr. Quigley addressed some of the
common concerns in an enthusiastic and engaging way, and also clarified
some widespread misconceptions. It was a most interesting and enjoyable
lunch and presentation.
12 | kilvington news
Cultural diverSity weeK in prep
Recently it was Cultural Diversity Week in Victoria.
Many Victorians came together to share aspects of
their culture, faith and language. They also celebrated
the benefits that multiculturalism brings to our State.
During Show and Tell, the Preps shared information
about the cultures within their families. We learnt that
there is a wide variety of cultures within the Prep class,
including Greek, Indian, Welsh, Irish, English and
many more. The Preps finished the week with a
dress-up day to showcase the variety of different outfits
worn by different cultures. During the day we made
fried rice and tried to use chopsticks to eat it. Thank
you to Otto and Kaho from Year 2 who came to give the
Preps a lesson on how to use chopsticks. Learning
about others cultures was part of the Term 1 enquiry
unit titled ‘Who Are We?’
ahoy, me heartieS!
Magenta Kindergarten children have been on a pirate
adventure. Working collaboratively in small groups,
all the students contributed their ideas and skills to
create a wonderful pirate ship – making the bottom of
the boat, a mermaid statue for the front of the boat to
bring the sailors good luck, stripy sails, the Jolly Roger
pirate flag and even a parrot!
Miles, a Year 2 student, was awarded Artist of the Week
for a pirate ship he made in Art Class. Miles explained
to the Magenta students how he created his pirate ship.
This inspired Magenta children to make their own
pirate ships. The pirate adventure continues as
Magenta children make some treasure maps, complete
with the ‘X’ that marks ‘the spot’. Lots of learning is
taking place through this experience including
creative expression, perseverance and the satisfaction
of achievement.
golfing SuCCeSS
Golf can be a game of patience, but Kilvington student
Shanaiah Fernando hasn’t had to wait long for success.
Shanaiah is just 11 years old and she recently won the
Under 18 Victorian State Girls’ Golf Championship.
Shanaiah played some outstanding shots to put
together the winning round against a talented field.
She also competed in the 2011 Stuart Appleby Rookie
Series and was declared the winner of the Under 14
section. Shanaiah will go on to play in the National
titles later in the year and we wish her all the best.
top Designs 2011 One of our 2010 graduates will be represented in
Top Designs 2011. Top Designs is part of the VCE Season
of Excellence presented at the Melbourne Museum,
and will show works by 114 students who were selected
from thousands of applicants.
Rebecca Ponniah’s Unit 3 folio for her Visual
Communication & Design studies was selected to
be part of this Exhibition, which runs at the Melbourne
Museum from 26 March to 26 June.
Top Designs showcases works created by students
undertaking Media, VET Interactive Digital Media,
Design and Technology, Food and Technology, Systems
Engineering and Visual Communication & Design.
| 13
Fame:the Musical
a highlight of this year’s musical
calendar was the senior production
of Fame: the Musical. more than
90 students combined with staff
to produce the sensational
musical, which kept the audiences
spellbound during the three
evening performances. Soli Tesema
Rachelle Rechtman, Sarah Bannon, Ann Nguyen and Joanna HillStephanie Moorhouse Juliana Dubinsky Surina Butler
Bianca Mohan
14 | kilvington news
‘Congratulations. fame: the Musical was certainly up to Kilvington’s high standards – we thoroughly enjoyed it. The leads were real standouts and the whole company worked really well together.’ Michele Moorhouse, Mother of Stephanie from Year 11, who played Iris Kelly.
Kilvington’s smashing
Senior production
of fame: the Musical.
Celia Gall, Academic Dean of Performing Arts and Director, called the
show ’spectacular, with wonderful songs, dynamic dances and heart-stopping
chorus numbers.‘ The School also enlisted the valuable help of talented
choreographer Karen Young, who previously appeared in Fame on London’s
West End, as a dancer.
Year 12 student Bianca Mohan, who played fiery Spanish dancer Carmen Diaz,
called performing on stage exhilarating, exciting and nerve-wracking at the
same time. Fame at Kilvington certainly lived up its reputation as a fun,
fast-paced and uplifting show. Year 10 student Julianna Dubinsky was
surprised when she was given a lead role in Fame, as they usually go to Senior
students. She played Nicholas Piazza – a talented actor who falls in love with
Sarina, another student at the prestigious school. Julianna researched her role
as a boy by studying her male friends, including they way they spoke, stood,
walked and talked. This helped her feel at ease on stage, and she had no
problem staying in character during the show. Her biggest challenge was
mastering the lower keys and registers when singing in her role as Nicholas.
Julianna, who has studied music since she was young, now plays piano,
trumpet and guitar. She hopes to combine music with education or law studies
at university, so she can continue to follow her passion after school.
Stephanie Moorhouse from Year 11 played Iris Kelly, a gifted yet insecure ballet
dancer who is worried about being liked by her classmates. She slowly makes
friends, however – especially with Tyrone Jackson, played by Sololia Tesema.
Tyrone is an actor aspiring to big things, but he worries because he finds it very
difficult to study. Both Stephanie and Sololia loved performing in their
respective roles: Stephanie has been studying ballet for many years, and Sololia
has a similar passion for singing. They both rate Fame: the Musical as the best
Kilvington production they have ever seen, and look forward to making time in
their busy VCE schedules for next year’s Senior production.
The backstage crew was instrumental in Fame’s success. Senior students spent
many hours planning the logistics for the production, including the movement
of props on stage. The rehearsal process helped them ensure all went smoothly
during each performance, and they appreciated the audience’s applause just
as much as the stars on the stage did.
Kilvington’s Performing Arts department has produced another triumph for
2011, of which everyone involved can be proud.
Surina Butler Samantha Skerry
| 15
Kristy Mortimer appreciates many of the good
things in life including literature, history, fashion,
architecture, family, and (most importantly!) her
students. After gaining her teaching experience
at some of Victoria’s finest Schools – including MLC,
Melbourne Grammar and St Michael’s Grammar –
Kristy made the decision to become a Year 6
teacher at Kilvington.
As a focused and dedicated student, Kristy was always
drawn to a career in teaching or architecture. She
found growing up in country Victoria to be a
wonderful experience – but she’s equally happy to be
a city-dweller now, and enjoys all that Melbourne has
to offer. As for most of us, Kristy’s day-to-day life
flashes past at a hectic pace: with a full-time job, her
five-year-old daughter Lara, and the renovations for
her Art Deco home currently on the boil, there is not
much spare time left in her day. Even so, Kristy still
tries to make room for pursuits such as reading,
which she has always greatly enjoyed.
Kilvington’s kind and respectful culture suits Kristy
down to the ground. Her own quiet, graceful manner
reflects the School’s core values of depth, strength,
integrity and character. Over the years, Kristy’s travels
have provided her with great insight into human
nature and compassion – especially her time in Israel,
during which she undertook an intense Holocaust
study program.
Kristy sets an extremely high benchmark for her
students in terms of their academic progress, because
she knows that advanced study skills will be absolutely
vital as they enter secondary school. A particularly
good example of Kristy’s innovative and exciting
teaching methods is her ‘Artful Writing Workshop’.
In each of these interactive weekly sessions, Kristy
projects an artwork onto the whiteboard for the whole
class to examine and discuss. Students then follow a
‘thinking routine’, so that they can imagine themselves
transported back to the same point in time as the
painting’s specific setting. Not only do the students get
the chance to exercise their imaginations with this
activity, they also learn exciting lessons about art and
history while they’re enjoying themselves. One Year 6
boy was overheard calling Kristy’s workshop ‘my
favourite – the best class of the week!’
Kristy is thrilled that her daughter Lara loves being in
Prep at Kilvington. Having witnessed the kindness,
courtesy and respect with which the older Kilvington
students treat their younger schoolmates, Kristy is glad
that her child is learning to treat others in the same
way. Now that‘s something to celebrate!
kristy Mortimeryear 6 Teacher
creativityencouraging
‘Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.’ – voltaire, French Philosopher and Author
16 | kilvington news
igniting the spark
When he was younger, Matt Brinson greatly enjoyed
going on camping trips to the beach with his family.
Today, he credits these childhood trips with igniting
his passion for the outdoors and the environment, as
well as for the biological and geographical sciences.
By the time he was in Year 9, Matt had narrowed
down his career choice to being either a veterinarian
or a teacher. His decision was made for him when he
carefully weighed up these two possibilities and
realised he couldn’t handle the thought of having to
put animals down. Many years later, Matt regards
his initial decision to go into teaching as a wise
and fulfilling choice.
Matt is now the Academic Dean of Science at
Kilvington, a title which he can proudly add to his
long and impressive list of qualifications. He is keen
on sparking younger students’ interest in science,
and to further encourage this focus as they mature.
Last year, Matt spent some time working in the
tertiary sector in order to see how well secondary
students were being prepared for university life.
The valuable lessons he learnt during this time have
influenced the way in which he prepares students
for the major transition to tertiary education.
For Matt, teaching is definitely ‘it’ – he gets an
indescribable buzz by inspiring students to love and
appreciate science as much as he does. He hopes that his
infectious passion about the subject will be passed on to
all of his students in some way. Matt keeps a busy
schedule: weekly Science Club meetings, robotics
projects, guest speakers and innovative Science Talent
Search entries are just some of the projects he is working
on with his talented colleagues in Kilvington’s Science
Faculty. There’s plenty of variety, too: Matt recently took
some of his Kilvington students to a presentation where
they were able to meet and chat with the Dean of
Science Faculty at the University of Melbourne. They
also met one of Matt’s old students, who is now busy
working on the Bionic Eye – a life-changing project!
Matt lives near the beach, and enjoys walking his
two Jack Russell terriers. He likes to keep fit by
snowboarding and playing beach volleyball, and he’s
also involved in netball: last year, he coached his niece
all the way to the Premiership! Matt is graded as a
‘B Badge’ umpire, and officiates every Tuesday night in
the Waverley Premier League. A keen Vixens follower,
Matt has put his hand up to coach Kilvington’s GSV
team next Term. Because travelling to foreign
countries ranks high on his ‘to do’ list, Matt would love
to be a Getaway presenter if he wasn’t teaching. No
doubt about it: his passion for the subject, inspiring
style and sense of fun would be as much of a hit with
viewers as it is with his students!
Matt Brinsonacademic Dean Of Science
| 17
Carnival
Many people enjoyed the rides and activities,
delicious food and entertaining music. Special thanks
go to David Collier for an outstanding job as the head of
the Organising Committee. He was well supported by a
very capable team including Natasha Boschetti, Chris
McCall, Christine Hassett, Angela Kitney, Caitlin
O’Leary and Jan Pietrzak. This group worked tirelessly
in their areas of responsibility to make the Carnival
such a wonderful and memorable day.
The level of all parents’ and students’ participation
at the Carnival was fantastic. Thanks to the many
parents who helped their own children with a stall,
signed on for sausage sizzle duty, helped with setting
up or sold tickets to rides and all the other activities.
Many students took the initiative to run special stalls
and donate the proceeds to worthy causes; others
performed beautifully on stage; older students
organised fun activities for younger ones or were
involved in taking School Tours or running House
activities, and even found time to help others with
their organising efforts.
Kilvington staff were involved with the Carnival in
many ways, and they deserve thanks for their many
contributions such as organising School Tours,
preparing the grounds and gardens, presenting their
classrooms so well, encouraging their students and
helping with the myriad of details such a day presents.
We warmely thank the Bendigo Bank who provided
a significant donation to the Carnival and the Flight
Centre for their generous Gold Coast Flight giveaway.
Other donations were kindly provided by the
Boschetti Family, Joan Charbonnier, Rita Nachar
and Janice Durand.
Kilvington
The Kilvington Carnival and Open Day was an outstanding success,
with hundreds of people visiting the School.
18 | kilvington news
Mother’s DayWhat better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than with a little pampering. Families gathered in Dalton Hall
on Saturday 7 May to spoil their Mums with flowers, massages, beautiful photographs and delicious
treats. The students who helped the PFA organisers on the day did a fantastic job of making the Mums
feel very special. There was also a Mother’s Day Stall held the day before for students to choose from
a great selection of gifts to give to their Mum to say ‘thanks for everything.’
Kilvington has enjoyed a momentous beginning to 2011. Boys have
joined the Junior School, and the buzz and excitement is evident throughout
the whole School.
I have recently assumed the role of President of the Kilvington PFA; my daughter began in Year 7 at the School
this year. I look forward to working with the many volunteers throughout the year to organise some wonderful
events and activities. It would be remiss of me not to thank the Committee for all their efforts so far, especially
in relation to the Kilvington Carnival.
memberS of the pfa Committee for 2011 are:
president Caitlin O’Leary
Vice-president Kylie Owen
Treasurer Chris McCall
Secretaries Natasha Boschetti, Leah Lemke
Committee members: Christine Hassett, Kylie & Don Brown, Kay Conser, Catherine Birmingham, Marina Polaskas,
Gabrielle Dutton and Alan Shanks. I would like to thank the above people for volunteering their time and
energy to assist the endeavours of Kilvington and all its students.
The PFA has been busy organising events such as the Mother’s Day celebrations, including a Mother’s Day Stall
and a special Saturday Morning Tea to pamper all Kilvington mothers. We are also working on a social evening
for parents to develop and strengthen friendships within the Kilvington community. Other possible events are
a golf day, as well as the traditional Father’s Day Stall and School Book Stall.
Associations like the PFA thrive when they have a good number of committed people involved. Everyone has
differing demands on their time, but whatever you have to give will help us to achieve great things for the
School and its students. As author Elizabeth Andrew said, ‘Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they
just have the heart.’ I invite you to get involved at the next PFA meeting dates and times are listed on the
website and in the newsletter. I look forward to seeing you there.
caitlin O’leary
pfa pRESIDEnT
Parents’ and Friends’ Association report
New parents welcome morning tea
| 19
keeping in touchwith Old Kilvonians
dr andrea douglaS alwayS enjoyed Studying SCienCe at SChool. She feelS very
Comfortable dealing with numberS and faCtual data, whiCh iSn’t SurpriSing: her dad
waS a Career eConomiSt.
Andrea looks back on her days at Kilvington with fondness, and treasures the close friendships she made at the
School which still endure today. She sees the move to coeducation at Kilvington as a positive, because ’it mirrors
real life, and will teach girls and boys to work well together.’
After graduating, Andrea studied for a Bachelor of Science with First Class Honours and a PhD in Forensic
Medicine from Monash University. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Health Administration, and is a Graduate of
the Institute of Company Directors. Andrea’s roles have included CEO of the Cooperative Research Centre for the
Discovery of Genes for Common Human Diseases, and Senior Researcher at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of
Medical Research, where she studied the molecular biology of breast cancer. She now manages the global
Research and Development product and investment portfolio for CSL, one of Australia’s most successful
companies. Although she sometimes misses spending time in the lab, she calls herself ’fortunate, because I still
get to oversee exciting Australian scientific discoveries, and communicate to global audiences about these
advances.’
Andrea’s prime motivator as a scientist is to help improve people’s quality of life. She lists being involved with the
successful trial of the swine flu vaccine as a career highlight. ’I was so proud to be associated with CSL…the first
company in the world to develop the vaccine to counteract the flu pandemic.‘ Andrea observes that ’from a clinical
and health viewpoint, vaccination is definitely a good thing.’
In her senior management position, Andrea appreciates the positive culture in her workplace and the flexibility
her role offers. Yet as has been reported recently, there is a shortage of students taking up careers in science, as
well as a predominance of males in the field.
Andrea travels regularly for work, both within Australia and overseas. This can pose some challenges,
especially when it comes to making sure all plans are in place for the care of her young son. Her husband,
family and friends are extremely supportive, and her highly organised nature can sometimes provide a source
of amusement: she often creates schedules for her family in readiness for her absence, so that she can travel
knowing all will go smoothly.
Andrea advises current students to base their career on what they enjoy studying at school, especially if they
arenot100%sureofthepaththeywouldliketotake.Andreaadvisesstudentsto‘followwhatenthusesand
ignites your passion, because nine out of ten times if you enjoy something you will do it very well.‘ This is sage
advice, which has served Andrea well over the course of her stellar 25-year science career.
under the microscope
Doctor Andrea Douglas
20 | kilvington news
CongratulationS
Congratulations to the following Old kilvonians
who were recently married:
lisa Carroll (Berkshire, Class of 1987) married Timothy
on January 15 this year. Lisa and Timothy were
married at home in their backyard under brilliant
sunshine. They enjoyed a honeymoon in Singapore
and Malaysia before Lisa returned to work at her own
graphic design consultancy.
Ellie payne (Pietsch, Vice Captain, Class of 1999) was
joined by family and friends when she married AJ
Payne recently. The service was held on the beach at
Torquay and it was followed by a relaxed evening of
barefoot bowls, music and fine food. The couple used
the services of wedding planner Diana Chow (Kang,
Class of 1999) of iheartpaper to make sure their special
day was everything they had hoped.
Carissa Roussety (Logan, Class of 1993) met her new
husband Johnny over two years ago through a mutual
friend. They married in March and Johnny’s niece was
their lovely flower girl. Carissa and Johnny enjoyed a
wonderful honeymoon in Fiji before returning home
to Mulgrave and their dog Keisha.
alison Stroud (Monger, Class of 1997) married
her husband Ben late last year at the Haileybury
Chapel, Keysborough.
new arrivalS
Emily Donnelly (Saunders) recently celebrated the safe
arrival of her fourth son Toby in September last year.
For the last ten years Emily, together with her husband,
has run the caravan park in Yea.
newS
Revati Ilanko graduated from Kilvington in 2005 and
went on to Monash University to complete a Bachelor
of Education Degree. She has also studied the topic of
Early Intervention and trained as an Integration Aide.
Rev returned to Kilvington last year to complete her
fourth year teaching placement. Lifelong learning is
important to Rev, who is just about to complete another
degree majoring in Archaeology, Psychology and
History. Rev’s two major passions are dance and the
Arts. For many years she has been involved in Indian
classical dance, which has provided her with the
opportunity to perform extensively both in Australia
and overseas. Rev also teaches and choreographs
many forms of dance. She recently established
Navaratna Arts, a company dedicated to the Visual and
Performing Arts. Rev sits on a number of Committees,
including the Arts and Cultural Reference Committee
in the City of Casey. She also exhibits her artworks and
conducts community-based art workshops. Rev
believes that art is a universal language that is not
static but constantly evolving, which if practised with
discipline, allows one to explore the depths of kinetics,
emotion and spirituality.
vale
It is with great sadness we advise you of the death
of mrs Sue Boyland (avery) who taught at Kilvington
from 1997 – 2003. Sue was diagnosed with cancer and
bravely faced her battle with dignity. Sue was an
exceptional Mathematics teacher, loved by all she met,
and will long be remembered for her wonderful smile
and positive attitude.
alison Stroud (Monger, class of 1997)
and husband Ben
carissa Roussety (logan, class of 1993)
and husband Johnny
Revati Ilanko
lisa carroll
(Berkshire, class of 1987)
and husband Timothy
| 21
35 Year Reunion
30 Year Reunion
Walsh Club ReunionWalsh Club Reunion
our next reunion dateS are:
Friday 22 July 25 Year Reunion
Friday 19 August 20 Year Reunion
Friday 26 August 15 Year Reunion
Friday 9 September 10 and 5 Year Reunion
Friday 14 September Walsh Club 50+ Year Reunion
The letter arrives, and you instantly recognise the
School Crest. With a sense of trepidation, you open
the envelope to see just what you expected: an
invitation to your past.
So many years; so many changes. You feel guilty
that it has been so long – you promised to keep
in touch with your friends. It’s probably too late
now, but maybe not?
Big hopes, big dreams: some realised, some not.
Although you are happy with most of the choices
made along the way, you recognise there have been
compromises as well. Perhaps it’s best to remember
them as they were, rather than now, with so many
years past. The youthful looks and firm figures have
changed over time – but maybe not for all.
Imagine seeing your school friends again, laughing
together till you cry at some silly joke. There’s not too
much to lose if it doesn’t work out: the past can stay
in the past. But if it does work out, it’s good to spend
time with old friends, reliving great memories,
remembering a time when the job that we had and
how much we earned weren’t on the radar.
George Harrison said, ’As far as I’m concerned, there
won’t be a Beatles Reunion as long as John Lennon
remains dead.’ At least things are not that serious yet.
Maybe my not-so-little black dress will still fit me.
The reunion program at Kilvington is in a full swing
again this year. We have already enjoyed meeting
many OKs during three reunions in February and May,
and invitations are on the way to more events. We will
be delighted to see all of you at the School and very
proud to talk to you about the changes that have taken
place at the School in the past few years and, of course,
to hear the stories from your time at Kilvington.
Kilvington reunions are relaxed, casual get-togethers
with plenty of time to chat, laugh and enjoy each
other’s company. Stay for an hour, or party on
afterwards – it’s up to you. Those ladies who attended
reunions in the past tell us what a great time they had
reconnecting with old friends.
It is easy to register and RSVp for reunions with
the new online booking system. We invite you
to visit the School’s website to make a booking
for all reunions to be held in 2011. Simply go to
the School Community section, click Old kilvonians,
select Reunions 2011 and make your booking.
We look forward to seeing you at your next
kilvington reunion.
to go…or not to go? the school reunion dilemma
22 | kilvington news
July 2011 Friday 22nd 25 Year Reunion
august 2011 Friday 5th Annual Music Concert
Tuesday 16th GSV Preliminary Athletics Carnival
Friday 19th 20 Year Reunion
Friday 26th 15 Year Reunion
September 2011 Thursday 1st GSV Championship Athletics Carnival
Thursday 8th Open Morning
Thursday 8th Music Scholars Concert
Friday 9th 10 and 5 Year Reunion
Friday 14th Walsh Club 50+ Year Reunion
October 2011 Wednesday 19th Art Show opens
Friday 21st Art Show closes
Friday 28th Open Morning
key dates for your diary
contributionsPlease send any interesting stories and information about yourself to [email protected]
for inclusion in the next issue of Kilvington News.
| 23
2 Leila Road, Ormond Victoria 3204
Telephone (03) 9578 6231 | Facsimile (03) 9578 3378
Email [email protected] kilvington.vic.edu.au
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