Issuu

SUM ME R ISSUE 2019

National chess champions | Basketball premiership Prep building campaign | Teaching excellence award ACGS Army Cadets centenary | Outdoor education

Key dates 28 Jan

4 Feb

7 Feb

13 Feb

6 Mar

First day of Term 1

Founder’s Day

Headmaster’s Welcome to Parents

Academic Celebration Assembly

GPS Swimming Championships

14 Mar

21 Mar

2 Apr

25 Apr

6 May

Head of the River

Prep School Cocktail Party

Senior Formal

Anzac Day Ceremony

Open Day

6 May

8 May

9 May

14 May

15 May

Brisbane Jazz Club Performance

'the churchie' Official Opening

Churchie Ball

Senior School Musical

Dubbo Boarding Schools Expo

21 May

27 May

29 May

9 June

18 June

Churchie Choral Concert

GPS Cross Country Championships

Vintage Vikings Lunch

ICPA State Conference, Roma

Prep School Billy Cart Grand Prix

18 June

27 June

17 July

23 July

24 July

Ag-Grow Field Days, Emerald

Rugby Race Day, Roma

Katherine Show

Churchie’s Best Solos

Narrabri Boarding Schools Expo

Anglican Church Grammar School Oaklands Parade, East Brisbane 4169 Queensland Australia Tel +61 3896 2200 www.churchie.com.au Editorial enquiries: eagleswings@churchie.com.au Cover image: Churchie Open Chess team.

Statement of Commitment Anglican Church Grammar School supports the rights of children and young people and is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare and wellbeing of students. Churchie is committed to responding to allegations of student harm resulting from the conduct or actions of any person, including that of employees. This commitment includes the provision of a safe and supportive living and learning environment for all students and requires all employees, volunteers and visitors to model and encourage behaviour that upholds the dignity and protection of students from harm. In support of this commitment, Churchie is dedicated to its Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy, which includes having relevant policies, procedures and training in place to effectively address the safety and wellbeing of students in their care.

Contents

02 04 05 06 HEADMASTER ’S MESSAGE

STAFF NEWS

TEACHING AWARD

NATIONAL CHESS CHAMPIONS

08 10 12 14 BASKETBALL PREMIERSHIP

PREP BUILDING CAMPAIGN

CHURCHIE NEWS

CADETS CENTENARY

18 20 22 24 CHURCHIE NEWS

CHURCHIE BOARDING

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

CHURCHIE NEWS

26 28 29 30 CHURCHIE FOUNDATION

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION

REUNION PHOTOS

IN MEMORIAM

For Eagles’ Wings enquiries or to update your delivery preferences (hard copy or email), please contact eagleswings@churchie.com.au

F R O M T H E H E A D M AS T E R

The tapestry of

old and new

Like as the waves make towards the pebble shore, So do our minutes hasten to their end; Ever changing place with that which goes before, In sequent toil all forwards do contend. William Shakespeare, Sonnet 60

Upon spending years in the education profession, one develops an acute sense of the passing of time, particularly with the lively pace at which young people grow from childhood to young adulthood. In a vibrant and busy school like Churchie, the extraordinary breadth of opportunity and occasion seem to combine to hasten life’s great ‘clock’. Our school observes and acknowledges the passing of time in a compelling range of ways. We have a sense of the contemporary, such as the delivery of twenty-first century curriculum suitable for a modern and dynamic world. We deliver learning experiences and skills that are at the leading edge of world-class education. Concurrently, we observe traditions that were established more than 100 years ago. Our students are educated for an optimistic and unpredictable future while being tutored in the timehonored elements of worship, service and respect that will give their lives a strong foundation. This edition of Eagles’ Wings features many examples of both the contemporary and the long-standing nature of life at Churchie. The old and the new, interwoven into an irresistible tapestry, provides students with myriad opportunities.

Stories of generational loyalty feature with prominent members of staff and our Old Boy community serving our school and sharing their goodwill and gifts for the betterment of the students. Outstanding recent achievements, such as our Open Chess team winning the Australian Schools Teams Championships and young Old Boys matriculating to the world’s leading universities, are also captured in this edition. Whether viewing the School through a contemporary lens or observing tradition through rituals or events, the essential challenge for our students is to ensure they make the most of the time they have now. By embracing the fullness of a Churchie education, they will gain the immeasurable benefits of this unique and multi-faceted place of learning. I do hope you enjoy this edition of Eagles’ Wings. Dr Alan Campbell Headmaster @ChurchieHM

The timeless element of service is expressed through our tri-service cadets programme, which has its origins in the formation of the Army Cadets 100 years ago. In commemorating the centenary, an inaugural Heritage March established a new opportunity to honour tradition. The ACGS Army Cadets marched along Oaklands Parade to School House, which is the area closest to the original parade grounds and also the location of outdoor Headmaster’s Assemblies of a bygone era.

S TA F F N E WS

Prep School Executive Teacher

Dean of Studies Years 7 to 9

At the beginning of Term 3, Churchie welcomed Virginia Male to the Preparatory School to the position of Executive Teacher.

Churchie’s new Dean of Studies Years 7 to 9 Alex Krzensk is well known to our community. He has been Head of Mathematics Faculty Years 7 to 9 since joining Churchie in 2013. Alex has also been involved in a variety of school activities, including football coaching, the Aquila programme and the development of Churchie’s Maths Team Challenge.

Virginia is an experienced primary educator with specialities in mathematics, gifted and talented and the IB Primary Years Programme. She has worked at Somerset College and, more recently, at the International School of Lausanne in Switzerland, which is, like Churchie, an IB World School delivering the PYP. Reflecting on her arrival at Churchie, Virginia recalled, ‘I was immediately impressed by the plenitude of resources, not just in Churchie’s beautiful environment, but also the classrooms, teaching materials and the wealth of knowledge that became apparent in talking with my new colleagues. The boys greeted me so warmly, with handshakes, smiles and even the occasional hat tilt! I could tell they were very proud to be Churchie boys.’ Virginia’s focus in her Executive Teacher role will be to oversee numeracy and literacy programmes in the Prep School. ‘I am looking forward to sharing my passion for learning with teachers and students. I have opportunities to plan with teachers, work with boys, model lessons and ensure that we all work together to maintain and continue to build the outstanding literacy and numeracy learning that occurs at Churchie.’

As Dean of Studies, Alex will be responsible for continued oversight and refinement of the Years 7 to 9 curriculum. Alex brings to this role a wealth of teaching experience and educational research. He is particularly interested in student resilience and self-regulated learning, which was the topic of his doctoral research and a ground-breaking research project with Churchie’s Year 7 Mathematics students.

Teaching excellence Churchie’s Meagan Pearse has been recognised for her research and leadership role in music education. In October, Meagan was selected as a finalist in the Queensland College of Teachers TEACHX Excellence in Teaching Awards, which recognise and celebrate the inspiring work of classroom teachers. Meagan’s music education research and leadership in the industry were the reasons for her selection as a finalist. Having taught in all-boys schools for many years, Meagan has an in-depth knowledge of how best to teach boys, but she is always pushing to learn more. Her PhD study is looking at awareness of how teacher physiology and gender stereotypes may influence the pedagogy of male and female teachers differently, and how they engage boys in music-making.

‘Boys need to know why they are doing it,’ Meagan said. ‘They need to believe that you know what you are doing and you need to respect them and show an interest in their lives. I have found that if boys don’t trust and respect you, they disengage.’ Meagan is part of a team that wrote Queensland’s 2013 Music Syllabus and is now one of the lead writers of the new Music Extension Syllabus. She is also lead endorser and chief confirmer for Music Extension for QCAA.

‘I have travelled the state to present to teachers how to implement the syllabus. I value the opportunity to share my knowledge with colleagues across Queensland,’ Meagan said. We congratulate Meagan on being recognised as one of Queensland’s leading teachers and thank her for the experience and innovation she enthusiastically brings to her music classroom at Churchie.

National chess

champions

Michael Ostapenko, Jason Wang, Henry Slater-Jones, Alexavier Ly-Liu, Max Condon and Dashiell Young

Churchie’s chess prowess has reached new heights of achievement with the team winning the 2019 Australian Schools Teams Championships in Canberra.

Congratulations to the team of Alexavier Ly-Liu (Year 8), Michael Ostapenko (Year 10), Captain Henry Slater-Jones (Year 12), Jason Wang (Year 10) and Dashiell Young (Year 9), who defeated the best school teams from each Australian state and territory. In a tight competition, Churchie outperformed competition favourites, Scotch College, by half a point. Director of Chess Max Condon said, ‘National titles are not easy to come by at any level or in any sport. The boys played a mature and challenging style of chess. The victory went to the team that successfully held its nerve the longest, which was Churchie, by the smallest of margins.’

Churchie is the only Queensland team to win this award, which the School last won in 2002 thanks to a dream team led by David Smerdon (Churchie Old Boy and chess grandmaster). We will have the opportunity to defend this title at home in 2020 as we are hosting this national event at Churchie. ‘I extend my heartfelt thanks to those who have worked tirelessly to provide us with the appreciation, climate, support, coaching and resourcing of our chess programme. We are fortunate to have a community of care for our chess players, the fruit of which is now visible to all,’ Max said.

The Open Chess team with Coach Alek Wohl (left) and Director of Chess Max Condon (right)

Basketball

premiership Churchie Basketball continues to grow with high participation, expert coaches, innovative programmes and strong community support. A GPS premiership caps off another successful year.

Churchie Basketball concluded its 2019 season with an impressive 16 first places across 29 divisions, which included the First V achieving the GPS premiership, shared with Gregory Terrace. This year was yet another successful one thanks to expert coaching staff, innovative programmes and strong community support. Director of Basketball Trent Goodrick said, ‘The ongoing success is the culmination of years of hard work, commitment and dedication from all involved at Churchie Basketball, in particular the amazing coaching staff led by Head Coach CJ Bruton (also Brisbane Bullets Assistant Coach).’ In addition to the First V, 24 of the 29 teams finished their seasons in a top-three position— an achievement that reflects depth and dedication from all 260 boys involved in the programme. Captain of Basketball Aiden Summerfield summed up this year’s success to an ongoing dedication to training and development. 08

‘We all know basketball never stops. We began with trials throughout Term 1, working with head coach CJ Bruton.’

Every player and all teams have the same opportunities,’ Director of Basketball Trent Goodrick said.

‘In Term 2, training and club competitions saw players refine their team skills and player styles in preparation for the GPS season. From then on, it was rubber to the road in Term 3, with all teams working hard at training, preparing and playing with skill and sportsmanship,’ Aiden said.

2019 key stats

With many opportunities for young basketballers to hone their skills, learn from expert coaches and undergo personal growth, the outlook for Churchie Basketball remains exceedingly optimistic. The basketball offerings include Churchie Hoops, Vikings Academy, Vikings Club Basketball, the GPS season and the USA Basketball Tour. ‘We have a vast array of professional, organised programmes, all focused on player development. Churchie Basketball values all players, not just the Firsts or the As.

260

PL AYERS

G PS PRE M I ERSH I P

P R E M I ERS H I P S

172

TEA MS

R EP R ES EN TAT I V E T E A M S EL E C T I O N S

TO P-T H R EE FI N I S H ES

W I N S FRO M 198 GA M ES

Building for

the future An exciting new Prep School building project and fundraising campaign has commenced, heralding a new era for Prep facilities and a continuation of Churchie’s proud history of giving.

The Churchie community has a long and proud history of supporting the provision of the best learning facilities for our students. Recent examples include The Centenary Library and Sir John Pidgeon Sports Complex. Our students have benefited immensely from these facilities, which encapsulate best-practice in learning environments for students today and into the future.

of an enduring legacy for our current and

The School’s current master plan includes a suite of exciting projects for the Prep School. The first is a new building that we introduced in the last issue of Eagles’ Wings, a two-storey building to create a Year 3 precinct and specialist subject learning spaces, such as Visual Art and a maker space.

the significance this building will have on our

Fittingly, it was at the Prep School Art Evening where Head of Preparatory School Michael Dunn and Director of Philanthropy Stuart Fitzpatrick shared the vision, the plan and how the Churchie community can, again, be part

and what they need to inspire their curiosity

future learners. This building will enhance the learning opportunities for our students by fostering inquiring, creative and imaginative thinkers, and the best way to tell this story is through the eyes of the boys. ‘We wanted to find the best way to share boys. This building is all about them and their learning needs. So with the help of Old Boy Scott Nelson and some genuine star talent from the Prep School, we produced a video, Let’s Create, to share this vision with the community,’ Stuart Fitzpatrick said. ‘It’s all about the boys

Make an impact Churchie is seeking to raise $3 million for this exciting project. We’re asking for your contribution so that Churchie students now and in the future can benefit from the best facilities we can provide. There are a range of donation options, such as general donations of any amount, personalised legacy bricks and donor pavers, and naming rights or individual rooms, zones or the building. Visit churchie.com.au/prep-project to find out more or contact Director of Philanthropy Stuart Fitzpatrick on (07) 3896 6445 or Stuart.Fitzpatrick@churchie.com.au

and develop young minds. It conveys the essence of what Churchie is all about and why it is so important we make this investment in the boys.’

Watch Let’s Create at churchie.com.au/letscreate

Prep School specialist and Year 3 building BU I LD COM M EN CIN G 2020

YEAR 3 PRECINCT

I N T ERCO N N EC T ED CL AS SRO O M S

A LE A RN I N G

PL A Z A

W I T H D R AWA L RO OM AND BATHROOM FACILITIES

CREATIVE PRECINCT 2 VISUAL ART CL ASSROOMS AND 1 M AKER SPACE

EXHIBITION AND

D I S PL AY S PAC E OU T DO O R

LEARNIN G COU RT YARD

Inspiring and developing young minds through IM AGINATION

COLL ABOR ATION

CREATIVIT Y

THINKING

INQUIRY

CHURCHIE NEWS

Magnus House Year 11s

Year 9 timetable activity

Sleeping rough

Wellbeing initiative

The Year 11s of Magnus House have experienced firsthand the challenges of being homeless. On a chilly October night, 19 young men embarked on the challenge of spending a night sleeping rough, equipped with a sleeping bag, a pillow, a sheet of cardboard and just $4 for food.

An initiative created by two Churchie teachers is helping boys monitor their physical and mental health while collecting data to assist boys in need.

The activity was part of a social justice unit learning about the issue of homelessness, which grew out of the established association between Magnus House and St Vincent de Paul. The goal was to provide an immersive experience of what is an ongoing reality for many people. On a Thursday evening, the boys visited St Vincent’s, and their youth engagement team provided a variety of activities and presentations to educate and prepare them for the night ahead. They then (without mobile phones) ventured out to find something for dinner, noting their $4 had to stretch to cover breakfast, too. Then, after bedding down in the St Vincent’s undercroft, a night of interrupted sleep commenced, made challenging by noise from overnight bin collections, street and pedestrian traffic and the nearby train line. Magnus Housemaster John Callie said, ‘The boys very quickly became aware that the plight of people who are sleeping rough is not as far from their current comfortable lifestyle as they first thought.’ Making the experience poignant, boys walked back to Churchie early the next day to attend a full day at school. ‘They were tired, hungry and generally uncomfortable, but acutely aware of how different life is for so many less fortunate,’ John said. 12

Head of Year 9 Natassja Dasios and Goodwin Housemaster James Thorpe were initially inspired by a presentation from LIVIN, an association breaking the stigma around mental health issues, and a post-presentation activity in which boys reflected on their daily activities. The boys coloured a timetable sheet according to sleep, physical activity, admin, sport and study. They then answered questions about mood, conflict, attitudes and general happiness. ‘I noted the Year 9 boys enjoyed the colour-in nature of the activity, it provided them with clear visual feedback on the composition of their daily lives and the opportunity to ponder questions about their wellbeing,’ Natassja said. James then sought to implement it in Goodwin House, one of Churchie’s two boarding houses, across all year levels. ‘We saw great benefit for the boys to reflect on how they spend their time and their general wellbeing. It also gave us the opportunity to collect data to analyse trends and develop strategies and interventions,’ James said. The data provided cohort-wide trends to inform the pastoral learning curriculum. It also helped identify students in need and established benchmarks for monitoring the physical and mental wellbeing of boys. With this action research project, Natassja and James have developed the framework to help boys reflect on their wellbeing and established an additional layer of care provided by the School. They will also be presenting at the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference next year.

CHURCHIE NEWS

Zac Coxon and Lachlan Toovey

The Hon Di Farmer MP and Kaiden Ball

New academic excellence awards

Taking action

The first graduating cohort of the IB Diploma Programme has heralded new ways to acknowledge our top academic achievers.

In their final year of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Year 6 completes a PYP Exhibition. This year’s central idea was ‘Inequality is connected to opportunity’, which saw students inquire into challenging topics such as inequality in wealth, gender, disability, welfare and education.

Commencing this year, new academic prizes were introduced to acknowledge the highest- and second-highest performing Year 12 students in the OP and IB. The inaugural recipients of Top in OP and Top in IB were Lachlan Toovey and Zac Coxon. Lachlan Toovey commenced at Churchie in Year 7 as a day student before transitioning to a boarder in Year 8. In addition to excelling in his academic endeavours, Lachlan is a high-performance rower who is looking at securing entry into a US college in 2020 as a scholar athlete. Zac Coxon started at Churchie in Year 8 after moving from Switzerland, where he also attended an IB World School. With a passion and talent for chemistry and physics, Zac is looking at commencing studies in medicine next year. We congratulate Lachlan and Zac for these highest commendations, which acknowledge the effort they have clearly devoted to their studies. Since final results for both courses will not be available until early January, the announcement of the recipients of Proxime Accessit and Dux of School will be at the 2020 Academic Celebration Assembly on 13 February 2020.

After eight weeks of research, teamwork and preparation, the boys share their work with students, staff and parents. One student, Kaiden Ball, took action on his topic of ‘Location affects education’ by securing a meeting with The Hon Di Farmer MP, Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Member for Bulimba.. ‘I wanted to meet with Di Farmer as everyone has the right to a voice in our society, despite their age, and she would be very capable of spreading the word around our community,' Kaiden said. Kaiden was able to share his research about the inequalities between urban and rural education in the areas of teacher experience, school resourcing and technology. ‘The result I am hoping for is that Di Farmer takes into account my findings before she makes a big decision that could affect children’s education, and that she shares her meeting experiences with other members of parliament. I also suggested she attend one of the future PYP Exhibitions to see the in-depth research and learning undertaken by the students,’ Kaiden said. Given that taking action is a key element of the PYP Exhibition, we congratulate Kaiden for taking an additional step to share his learning with a key decision maker in the community.

Army Cadets

centenary

Since its formation in 1919, ACGS Army Cadets has operated continuously for 100 years. To mark the centenary, the inaugural Churchie Heritage March was held, comprising a march along Oaklands Parade and a special assembly on the School House lawn.

The Church of England Grammar School Army Cadets detachment was formed in 1919. Designated No 16 Platoon of D Company, 15th Battalion, Australian Military Forces, it quickly developed a reputation for efficiency and precision. The unit has paraded continuously since 1919 despite government suspension of compulsory cadet training in 1929 and, later, temporary withdrawal of financial support in 1975. Significantly, Churchie is one of just a handful of schools to have conducted cadet corps continuously since their inception. The oldest continuous serving cadet unit is Newington College, Sydney. Alongside 203 Squadron Air Force Cadets, formed in 1941, and TS Magnus Navy Cadets, formed in 1955, the tri-service cadets are a significant part of Churchie today, providing opportunities for personal growth to so many students. With this year marking the centenary of the unit’s formation, a special assembly and march was held on 10 October. Led by the National Servicemen’s Pipes and Drums, the ACGS Army Cadets marched from Magnus Quad along Oaklands Parade to School House, where a special Headmaster’s Assembly was held. Officer Commanding Army Cadets Captain (AAC) Tremayne Cornish addressed the

assembled Senior School and paid tribute to the people whose vision has seen the unit survive and thrive. ‘This remarkable achievement is a great credit to the students who have served in Churchie's tri-service cadets over the years. I also acknowledge the staff members and officers who have supported our cadets and programmes over the years, such as Charles Fisher, who served for 26 years as Officer Commanding of the Army Cadets. ‘The great schools of the world pay homage to their heritage, never allowing their boys to forget their past, whilst at the same time embracing the future and preparing their young men to lead successful and meaningful lives. Today’s Heritage March has been another step in building that heritage. ‘Our founding headmaster, Canon Morris, said, 'Those who have the greatest advantages should be the readiest to serve.' And serve our Old Boys did! Almost 1000 Old Boys fought in World War II; one in ten of them was killed in action or died of their wounds. This is a big part of our Churchie ethos, culture and heritage. Thank you for being part of the honouring of this momentous occasion in Churchie's history,’ Tremayne said.

CHURCHIE NEWS

Churchie Theatresports team CCTV

Nadia Hernandez, winner of ‘the churchie’ 2019

Performing under pressure

Emerging artists

Three Churchie theatresports teams competed in the grand final of the Queensland Youth Theatresports Competition this year.

Congratulations to emerging Australian visual artist Nadia Hernandez, who was announced as the 2019 winner of the churchie national emerging art prize. Established in 1987 ‘the churchie’ is a highly regarded prize dedicated to supporting, encouraging and profiling the work of artists in the early stages of their arts careers.

Theatresports is competitive improvised theatre where teams invent scenes from suggestions they are given. Teams are judged on their ability to follow set rules, deliver a cohesive story and entertain the audience. It is unpredictable, fast-paced, eclectic and humourous. Participants need to think on their feet, and the experience offers enormous opportunity for personal growth and expression. With 136 teams in the 2019 Youth Theatresports Competition, it was a remarkable feat to have three teams make the grand final. While no trophies were brought home by the Churchie teams, their performances were outstanding. One of the senior teams, CCTV, was awarded with a Magic Moment prize for clever or humorous moments of improvisation. Theatresports coordinator Tiarnee Kim noted the achievements of this year illustrates the steady growth in popularity of this co-curricular activity. ‘The boys enjoy the improvisational nature of theatresports and it is an outlet for them to hone their drama practice. They also enjoy the challenge to combine quick thinking, a sense of humour and audience entertainment. It is the embodiment of Churchie’s tenet of personal growth,’ Tiarnee said. Notably, three Churchie Old Boys return to help the boys as coaches of teams, strengthening the programme with the mentorship they provide and experience they bring.

This year, a new venue partnership was established with the Institute of Modern Art and the guest judge was Amy BarrettLennard. The winner, Nadia Hernandez, received the major cash prize of $15,000, sponsored by BSPN Architecture, for her works Remezcla #2 (Remix #2), 2019, and Remezcla #3 (Remix #3), 2019. The works depict a series of vignettes that portray current political tensions, past resistance movements, acts of defiance, celebration, and technology-based connection as a way to speak of the artist’s own diasporic experience. The winner of the Special Commendation Award valued at $5000, sponsored by Fardoulys Constructions, was Ben Soedradjit. Two artists each received Commendation Prizes valued at $1,000 each, sponsored by Rob and Roz Whiteley: Sarah Poulgrain for her work, A Set of New Skills, and Shireen Taweel for her hand-pierced copper installation, Razing Legacy. The People’s Choice Award, a $3000 prize, sponsored by Rob Whiteley of Madison Cleaning Services, will be drawn at the end of the exhibition period, as voted on by gallery visitors.

CHURCHIE NEWS

Scott Revell, Tim O’Brien, Peter Brown, Lachlan Fryer and Scott Hill

Ivan Zelich

Kabul reunion

Master of mathematics

Churchie has a long and proud history of Old Boys, family members and staff serving in the Australian Defence Force.

Old Boy Ivan Zelich (2015) recently headed to the UK to commence a Master of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge after completing a fast-tracked degree in mathematics at The University of Queensland, where he graduated as Valedictorian for the Faculty of Science.

Since World War I, they have served in many theatres, conflicts and peacekeeping missions around the world. Recent deployments include the Middle East Area of Operations, East Timor and South Sudan, to name a few. One mission that Australia currently contributes to is the NATO Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan and Churchie Old Boys have held mission critical roles such as force protection, training, advisory and assisting our Afghan partners, as well as performing essential staff and support positions to ensure the success of the mission. While the deployments are spread across different missions across Afghanistan, four Churchie Old Boys and a Churchie past parent found a rare opportunity to be in the one location at the same time. The result was a short, impromptu (inaugural) Kabul reunion with Brigadier Tim O’Brien (1982) and Majors Scott Revell (1992), Peter Brown (1987), Lachlan Fryer (1992) and Scott Hill (parent of Churchie Old Boys Matthew (2007) and Angus (2012). The group reported, ‘It was great to reminisce about our time at Churchie, talk about those teachers whose careers spanned our times at the school and share interesting anecdotes and memories that we could all relate to. However, the catch-up ended all too soon and we returned to our work locations the following day.’

Notably, Ivan completed his undergraduate degree in two years, instead of three. He received Dean’s Commendations for Academic Excellence every semester, the James Cecil Stevenson Memorial Prize in 2017 and the Giuseppe Sciacca International Award for Mathematics. Being in the spotlight for academic accolades is nothing new for Ivan. While in Year 12, he received international attention and commendations for developing the Liang-Zelich Theorem, which was published in the International Journal of Geometry and led to him being nominated for 2017 Queensland Young Australian of the Year. After his Cambridge course, Ivan plans to undertake a PhD in pure mathematics at Oxford. 'I want to become a professor in mathematics and do some high-quality research,' Ivan said. 'I’ve had interests in other areas of science, such as neuroscience, so I am always on the lookout for potentially applying high-end mathematics to solve problems in other areas of STEM.' While at Churchie, Ivan excelled in music and sports in addition to his academic excellence. He embodies Churchie’s balance across the four tenets and global focus. We congratulate and wish Ivan the very best.

Strength in

community Hunter Macfarlane, Lachlan Toovey, Peter Body, Hunter Wright

Boarding has been an integral part of Churchie since the foundation of the School. At the core of our boarding experience is a sense of community.

Churchie is well known for its commitment to full-time boarding that supports the needs of rural and regional students from Australia and international expat communities. At the heart of Churchie Boarding is its seven-day-a-week boarding philosophy that ensures boys from different backgrounds come together to form a distinctly supportive culture and develop lifelong friendships and connections. The Churchie Boarding community welcomes boys from outback stations, country towns, coastal cities, tropical islands and international metropolises. This diversity strengthens our community in so many ways as the boys join one vibrant community.

A supportive community that values individuals is the basis for the success Churchie’s boarders have achieved in personal growth and academic excellence. ‘Seven-day-a-week boarding at Churchie really strengthens our boarders’ experience. Boys immerse themselves in boarding life, take advantage of the many opportunities, and—most importantly—support each other to pursue their talents and interests,’ Director of Boarding Jason Wynne-Markham said. We asked our Year 12 seniors to tell us what they have enjoyed most about their experience in the Churchie Boarding community.

Goodwin House Captain Hunter Macfarlane said, ‘The best thing about boarding is the tight-knit and inclusive culture. There are so many opportunities to do things together, during the week and on weekends, too. It means that we get to know each other really well and support each other.’ Head Boarder Hunter Wright noted, ‘Given the fact my parents live internationally, and have moved a few times during my time here, Churchie has provided me with a place of consistency and opportunity, which has been incredible. The boarding family I return to at the end of every holiday has helped shape me into the person I have become.’

Lachlan Toovey, Prefect and Top in OP academic achiever, said, ‘I’ve had fantastic support from the teachers, the tutors and the older boys, so that’s what we do now we’re school leaders—we help the younger boys. We’re a family and we’re all in it together, driving each other to succeed in whatever we choose to do.’ Gerald House Captain Peter Body, said, ‘Churchie Boarding instils a sense of mateship and comradery. I really felt Churchie was a place for me right from the start. Everyone was so accepting and welcoming. You couldn’t help but fit in.’ While we bid our Year 12s farewell in November, the bonds they have formed through their time in the community will remain strong as they become Churchie Old Boys.

On the road 2020 Churchie Boarding will be on the road throughout 2020 and are looking forward to catching up with Churchie families and students, past, present and future. For more information visit churchie.com.au/ontheroad

Boarders Jack Meppem (far left) and Lachlan Toovey (far right) in the First VIII Rowing

• Dubbo Boarding Schools Expo 15 to 16 May • Roma ICPA State Conference 9 to 10 June • Emerald Ag-Grow Field Days 18 to 20 June • Roma Rugby Race Day 27 June • Katherine Show 17 to 18 July • Narrabri Boarding Schools Expo 24 to 25 July • Dirranbandi Polocrosse Carnival 25 to 26 July • Gunnedah AgQuip Field Days 18 to 20 August • Barcaldine Westech Field Days 8 to 9 September

Ten boarders were in the First XV Rugby squad in 2019

O U T D O O R E D U C AT I O N

Personal

growth Outdoor Education is a highlight of the year that is both exhilarating and inspiring. It’s a challenge in mind, body and spirit that ultimately leads to personal growth.

Outdoor Education steps boys out of their comfort zones to challenge themselves in situations that require teamwork, physical effort and mental resilience. Head of Outdoor Education Jared Crunkhorn notes that, ultimately, the goal of Outdoor Education is personal growth. ‘Students develop a better understanding of themselves by engaging in reflective activities. While they are undertaking the programme, they find themselves in challenging situations as they participate in the wide variety of activities, including rock climbing, group challenges and hikes. Jared believes this leads to boys developing individual strategies to deal with adversity, which they take with them and can apply to their lives, whether at school, home or in the workforce,’ Jared said.

To facilitate this process, reflection is a key part of Outdoor Education programmes. With our Year 9s, at the conclusion of each day, the groups conduct a de-briefing session that is student directed and facilitated by staff. ‘The boys identify what is positive about being outside their comfort zones and how vulnerable situations lead to an understanding of themselves. Jared reported that the Outdoor Education staff continue to be impressed by the curiosity from the boys and their engagement in reflective practices to extend themselves out of their comfort zones,’ Jared said.

Timely

tribute Penrod Schmidt while at Churchie in the 1960s

An iconic outdoor clock on Young building in honour of a Churchie boy is functioning once again, helping Churchie’s students stay on time and reminding us of a promising life tragically cut short. Old Boy James ‘Penrod’ Thomas Schmidt attended Churchie from 1960 to 1966, during which time he served as an officer in the CEGS Army Cadets. In his senior year he was a Probationer, a member of the First VIII rowing and played rugby in the Seconds.

Penrod’s brother Paul Schmidt (1958) said, ‘The clock faces the oval and tennis courts below so that the boys playing sport on The Flat can easily check the time from a distance.’ However, for several decades, the clock infamously remained motionless.

After Churchie, Penrod worked on his family’s four cattle properties and commenced studies at the Marcus Oldham Agricultural College in Victoria.

This year, Churchie engaged Old Boy Grant Menzies (1988) of Adina Watches to replace the clock, and it once again is serving its intended purpose for all students.

Tragically, his life was cut short in 1969 as the result of a terrible car accident. A clock on the wall of Young was later dedicated to Penrod’s memory, donated by his parents, James ‘Jim’ Schmidt (1930) and Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Schmidt.

Fifty years on from Penrod’s death, it is wonderful to see this iconic school feature serve its intended purpose for our young men and continue as a meaningful tribute to Penrod. This has an extra significance for three of Penrod’s descendants currently at Churchie: Hugo, Stirling and Baxter Schmidt (pictured right). Hugo, Stirling and Baxter Schmidt

CHURCHIE NEWS

Flight Lieutenant Sam Hockin

Dr Gordon Lulham, Suzanne Hood and Meg Macpherson

Super Hornet Sam

Forty years of practice

The Churchie community has an extra reason to enjoy Brisbane’s Riverfire event, which features a spectacular flyover by an RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet.

This time next year, Churchie Old Boy Dr Gordon Lulham (1969) will have served as the ‘Churchie doctor’ for 40 years.

For the past two years, Churchie Old Boy Flight Lieutenant Sam Hockin (2010) has been in the pilot’s seat, travelling between 600 and 900 kilometres per hour, pulling up to seven Gs as he expertly maneuvered his aircraft to make five passes over the Brisbane River and the CBD. Sam has been a member of the RAAF since 2012 and has been flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet as a member of 1 Squadron based at Amberley since 2016. In 2017/2018 he completed a deployed tour of the Middle East. During his years at Churchie, Sam was the Magnus House Vice-Captain Spiritual and participated in rugby and cricket. His housemaster Michael Daley remembers Sam as being a humble gentleman who would drop anything to do something for someone else. ‘He had nothing but compassion for those who were less fortunate. He never shirked his work and achieved good results. His dream was to fly, and I think he has certainly achieved that,’ Michael said. We encourage all Churchie boys to aim for the sky, but Sam is one of a few to achieve this both figuratively and literally.

Gordon’s father Clifford Lulham bought a practice in East Brisbane in 1958 and started visiting and attending the boarders. He continued until around 1980 when he handed over to Gordon, who has since visited the School almost every morning before going to his main practice in New Farm. Gordon was a student at Churchie from Year 5, graduating in 1969. In many ways he has never left. ‘I have seen tremendous changes in the development of the School over the years, from the house at 18 Oaklands to the purpose-built facility that we enjoy today,’ Gordon said. ‘There has always been a happy team committed to the welfare of the boarding community. It is a delight to serve with an exceptionally enthusiastic group of nurses, led by Suzanne Hood, who are committed to the welfare of the boarding community. We now have a group of physiotherapists who visit the centre, as well as other allied health practitioners,’ Gordon said. Gordon has seen a couple of generations of boarders come through Churchie. He notes that, on the whole, they are healthy and resilient, which makes his job relatively easy. ‘I enjoy the personal and professional interactions with the boys and the staff. It is an unusual slice of general practice that I hope someone else will eventually appreciate as much as I have,’ Gordon said.

C H U R C H I E F O U N DAT I O N

The impact

of giving As Founder of the School Canon Morris said, ‘I want you boys to realise that we have a wonderful chance here to make a great school, a blessing to ourselves and a gift to Australia.’ During the year we travelled to Longreach with the Headmaster and held a Foundation meeting at the Qantas Founders Museum with Old Boys, current parents and prospective parents. It was a great night spreading the Churchie story. In November we participated in the launch of the new Prep School specialist and Year 3 building, which will be inspirational for our young boys after it is completed.

This has been a busy year at the Churchie Foundation.

After the School unveiled its ambitious five-year master plan in late 2018, we shaped a new Foundation Strategic Plan and a step-by-step action plan to guide us in playing our role. We have released the first issue of Making an Impact, which articulates the history of giving at Churchie. This explains the role of philanthropy at Churchie. The School has been largely built with the generosity of Churchie Old Boys and parents who wish to do their bit for future generations, and that is why we continue to improve our school today.

$2.5 million

contributed to academic scholarships since 2008

$1.4 million

contributed to bursaries since 2008

129 Old Boys supported through post graduate study in the UK and USA since 1994

12 Yalari scholars currently supported at Churchie

This is the first new building in the Prep School for many years and the first in the School’s new master plan. From our perspective, it has already been a great success with generous donations from the Prep community. Next year will be an energetic one as we continue to work for the good of our sons and future generations of Churchie boys. Russell McCart (1974) Churchie Foundation Chairman and School Council Member

Visit churchie.com.au/foundation to read Making an Impact.

C H U R C H I E F O U N DAT I O N

Why we give The support of our Churchie community results a vast array of generous and committed individuals and families. They each have their own story, of their connection to Churchie and their reasons for giving. What they all share is an enduring desire to help boys, now and in the future, experience the very best education that Churchie can provide. Here are a few examples of ‘we why give’.

Sir John Pidgeon: Churchie gave me a lot, much more than just a good education and a great start to life, but lifelong friendships and lasting memories too. As an Old Boy I’m pleased to be able to give something back.

Nathan and Rebecca Mitchell: We believe Churchie plays a vital role in the growth and development of our young men. Giving back to the Churchie community that has helped mould our boys into the confident young men they are today is a privilege.

Dr Albert and Teresa Ting: When we look at our two sons, we see Churchie in the past. When we look at our four grandsons, we see Churchie in the future. We love our family, and we love our Churchie. Together, let us build up Churchie as we build up our families.

Cliff Ashdown: The first gift was the hardest. After that, it was easier and always rewarding. Knowing that I am helping more boys get a Churchie education is important to me and something of which I am proud.

The Spencer Family: My family holds our relationship with Churchie over three generations with the utmost respect. It is a pleasure to be able to give back to Churchie in some small way, to ensure future generations have the same Churchie experience that my family continues to enjoy today.

The McCart Family: Churchie has been a big part of our family for generations. We believe the world needs more Churchie boys.

O L D B OYS ' AS S O C I AT I O N

From the President of the

Old Boys’ Association The Hon Cameron Dick MP and Christopher Hughes QC for their words on recently departed Old Boys Graham Freudenberg AM (1951) and Lloyd McDermott (1957); and, of course, guest speaker Tim Walsh (1996). Congratulations to Liam Wright (2014) who became Wallaby #928 when he debuted for Australia in the Bledisloe Cup match against New Zealand in Auckland. David Pocock (2005) and Henry Taefu (2010) competed at the 2019 Rugby World Cup playing for the Wallabies and Manu Samoa respectively. It was also fantastic to see Kalyn Ponga (2015) and Brodie Croft (2015) once again teammates in the Junior

This has been a strong year for the OBA during which we have successfully actioned or progressed the objectives of the association for the benefit of Old Boys.

Kangaroos against France in Wollongong. At the 2019 Australian Road Running Championships, Jack Bruce (2012) and Louis McAfee (2013)

Mental health is an issue of growing concern to our community. It is an area in which we think, as an organisation, that we can offer some support. We have been approached by various Old Boys who wish to assist in this area. As we recognise our lack of expertise in relation to this issue, we are currently arranging a forum to bring together experts with a view to providing guidance about the effective measures we can put in place to support members who are struggling with their mental health. I look forward to sharing more details about this initiative as it develops.

finished first and second respectively. Jack also won the 2019 Bridge to Brisbane in the men’s division, completing the iconic 10 kilometre race in a time of 28:41, while Louis won a silver medal at the Australian Half Marathon Championships. Congratulations, also, to Nick Marshall (1994),

Our reunions have been particularly well attended, as was our OBA Annual Dinner, held at Howard Smith Wharves. I received many compliments from attendees noting their enjoyment of the event. This is, of course, what an OBA event is about—a collegiate and enjoyable event! My thanks to the speakers at the dinner who helped to make it a great night: School Captain Jack Butler-Wood for his earnest call to arms during an entertaining speech;

The OBA continued its support of the churchie national emerging art prize, which now extends to 32 years. It was particularly pleasing to see Old Boy Sam Cranstoun (2004) appointed as patron of this year’s event.

who is Queensland’s nomination for the 2020 Australian of the Year in the Local Hero category. Nick has inspired many through his commitment to achieving greater inclusion in sport and his desire to create a better and more engaged community. This is particularly evident through his founding of Albatross Nippers on the Gold Coast, a nipper programme that provides a safe, friendly and inclusive environment for children with special needs.

I sincerely believe that this year we have seen the OBA come back to its main role of supporting the Old Boys community and Churchie. It is important that the committee communicates with all Old Boys and also that they take advantage of the extensive knowledge of the OBA community. Simon Pattison (1984) Old Boys’ Association President

40 Year Reunion

Canberra Reunion

10 Year Reunion

30 Year Reunion

20 Year Reunion

1956 cohort annual lunch

70 Year Reunion

Annual Dinner

50 Year Reunion

Melbourne Reunion

IN MEMORIAM

Graham Freudenberg (1951) Norman Graham Freudenberg AM was an author, journalist and political speechwriter who attended Churchie from 1948 to 1951. A gifted writer, Graham knew long before he left school that he wanted to be a journalist. In 1961 he became press secretary to Arthur Calwell, the leader of the federal opposition party for Labor. During his almost 50-year career, he wrote more than 1000 speeches for leaders of the Australian Labor Party, including Gough Whitlam, Bob Hawke, Neville Wran, Barrie Unsworth, Bob Carr and Simon Crean. He was renowned for his work for Whitlam, including the ‘It’s time’ speech that was presented at the launch of the campaign for the 1972 Australian federal election. In recent years Graham was the subject of the The Scribe, a documentary by writer, director and producer Ruth Cullen, which explores Graham’s professional life as a journalist, press secretary, speechwriter and author. For the past few years, Graham returned to Churchie and generously gave his time to speak to our Year 12 Modern History students about the dismissal of the Whitlam government by Governor-General Sir John Kerr. Graham died on 26 July 2019 aged 85.

Vale We respectfully acknowledge the passing of the following Old Boys. To help ensure Old Boys are recognised appropriately, please send notifications to oba@churchie.com.au 30

Michael Charles Anthon Justin Michael Byrne Thomas Philip Claffey Michael Rowland Cobbold Brian Bromley Cranstoun John Whitehead Crooke Ralph Neville de Voil Robert Edward Taylor Duhig Stuart Nicholas Efstathis Timothy Derwent Campbell Forster Eric Graham Francis

1977 – 1982 1980 – 1987 1973 – 1980 1950 – 1958 1943 – 1944 1951 – 1954 1955 – 1959 1947 – 1948 2002 – 2010 1955 – 1958 1939 – 1940

Tim Forster (1958) Hailing originally from Warwick, Dr Tim Forster was a boarder in Goodwin from 1955 to 1958. After completing a medicine degree at UQ, Tim’s enduring connection to the bush was evident with his medical practices in Rockhampton, St George and Clermont where he was Medical Superintendent for five years. Tim was a foundation shareholder/surgeon of the Queensland Eye Hospital and served on the Medical Advisory Committee for over 20 years. More recently, Tim practiced as an independent ophthalmologist at the Wesley Medical Centre, with branch practices at Oxley and Wynnum. His love of being a doctor meant that he never contemplated retirement. Tim loved Churchie for what it represented: ‘a grounding in principles and values, an understanding of the moral dimensions of life.’ He served on the OBA Committee for 10 years and, while OBA President (1989–1990), commissioned the Canon Morris statue, part of Churchie’s 75th anniversary. With a Forster family link to Canon Morris, Tim was especially proud of this OBA gift to the School. Tim had a great loyalty for family and friends and an enthusiasm for travel. His resilience, wisdom, humour and decency will be missed.

Norman Graham Freudenberg Lawrence Alan Hay Rodney Palmer Henzell Richard Gregory Huybers Philip Eric John Hynd David Reginald Hall Jones Anthony Leslie Nash Kibble John Keith Lemon Garth Harold Robert Lenehan Glenn Edward Mitchell Craig William Moody

1948 – 1951 1952 – 1959 1946 – 1950 1974 – 1979 1952 1953 – 1955 1962 – 1970 1939 – 1942 1944 – 1949 1979 – 1985 1967 – 1971

Kerry Michael Olsen William Neil Peters John Alexander Sharwood John McCord Sheehan David Rolt Shepherdson John Roy Stuart Smiles Philip Albert Taylor Allan Mclaran Thomas Reginald Gordon Woltmann Stephen Andrew Wyer

1961 – 1964 1944 – 1945 1950 – 1956 1968 – 1971 1945 – 1947 1957 – 1960 1941 – 1946 1945 1946 – 1948 1983 – 1987

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R

A message from Churchie’s

platinum sponsors Porsche Centre Brisbane and Brisbane City Jaguar Land Rover have enjoyed another year as Churchie’s platinum sponsors and naming rights sponsor of the rugby and cricket lunches. We have relished being a part of the community throughout 2019 and wish all family and friends of Churchie a successful end to the year.

Supporting Indigenous scholarships Brisbane City Jaguar Land Rover will donate $500 to Churchie’s Indigenous Scholarship Fund for each new Jaguar or Land Rover sold to someone in the Churchie community. Please ensure you mention this initiative at the initial enquiry. Terms and conditions apply.

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