Blue & White June 2020

Music in Semester One

It’s early May, and I’m writing this article from my home studio, having just finished a Chapel Choir rehearsal using Zoom. Eleven choral scholars logged on to learn new and revise current repertoire, and to trial formats for online performing. Last night, the College’s Chemble (chamber ensemble) also met via Zoom to discuss follow-up projects to the video collage of ‘Moon River’ which they recorded for Mothers’ Day, and earlier in the week the Jazz Band ran Zoom improvisation and percussion workshops. A lot has changed since College came together in February, but the music continues.

The start of the year saw the highest number of music scholars enter College in our history, with outstanding musicians, from the classical to the contemporary, arriving from across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. We welcomed two new Convenors: fresher James Armstrong, running Chemble, and Jim Osborne (Fr 2019), running the Jazz Band. It was clear we were really going to need those new pianos in the four new practice rooms of the Thyne Reid Link! Our first Palladian success came immediately in Solo Instrumental, with cellist Angela Shin (Fr 2020) giving a stand-out performance, alongside pianist Nina Fan (Fr 2020).

On B ard Rev with the

We held a tough round of internal auditions for Palladian Solo Vocal in early March, but the two candidates never competed; COVID-19 saw to that. Artist in Residence Ben Adler continues to make music at College with the few musicians still resident, maximising the opportunity for socially-distanced duets. However, the majority of college music has shifted online, and the students have shown incredible flexibility, commitment and spirit in adapting to the new format.

Apart from the three major ensembles rehearsing online, the four Taylor Scholars have quickly adapted their projects, including Lily Harper’s Big (virtual) Choir, Sam Vail’s performance feedback sessions, Ben Herlihy’s jazz band development, and Nicky Craze’s facilitation of free online music lessons for interested students. Anyone hoping for a quiet night at College once we return may need to think again.

Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith Director of Music

Tough uncertain times – but this is when Andrew's men and women are at their BEST!

Some have put it this way, Tough times are like a grindstone – whether they grind people down or polish them up, depends on the material they are made from.

I like the way Paul puts it in Philippians 4:13 (GNT). He writes, with good reason, “I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.” And whatever happens, WE ARE GOING ON!

Dr Gareth Clayton OAM, Chaplain

St Andrew’s has enjoyed a unique Semester One; our Chair & Bird discuss the College’s progress.

The Thyne Reid Link Building is now completed and students were able to enjoy the new facilities in the first weeks of Semester One.

Despite COVID-19's best efforts to disrupt College life, our staff and students have quickly adapted to working and connecting online.

We talk to two of our younger alumni who are currently living abroad about their experiences with work, life and College. Chair & Bird

From the Chair & Bird

From the Student Leaders

How 2020 Started Thyne-Reid Link Building

Education & Student Life: Moving Online 2020 Taylor Scholars Program 2020 St Andrew's Scholars Pre-Tertiary Studies Program College Community: Rawson Cricket College Community: Palladian Alumni Community: Where are they now?

From the Archives Drew's News Upcoming Events in Semester 2 Awards,

& Obituaries

Blue & White is published twice a year by the College Advancement and Marketing teams for the St Andrew’s College community. We wish to thank all of our student photographers for their contributions.

Front cover image: The newly finished Thyne Reid Link Building's common room. Photo by Aran Anderson Photography.

Hannah Atwell Chester Burns (Fr 2019)

Alana Chambers Clare Armstrong (Fr 2018)

Zina Boikov Aran Anderson Photography

From the Chair & Bird

Each year, the June issue of Blue & White covers both the triumphs and challenges of Semester 1, and this edition is no different. However, as you are aware, the challenges we have all faced in the past few months have been unprecedented. Despite the absence of regular College events –Intercol competitions, celebrations, events and alumni reunions, we have much to share in this issue.

The commencement of the academic year showed a lot of promise. We welcomed the largest fresher cohort in the College’s history, and kicked off with a very successful Welcome Week. Our student mentors went through extensive training in the fortnight prior to the arrival of our freshers and we were extremely proud of their dedication and ability.

The highly anticipated Thyne Reid Link Building finally opened after a long period of construction (see pages 8-11) and we looked ahead to another eventful, exciting year. A recap of ‘How 2020 Began…’ is on page 7.

The COVID-19 pandemic soon emerged and drastically changed College, the country and the world. In March, we made the difficult decision to temporarily encourage all students to move home if possible for the safety of their families and elder relatives, given the uncertainty around

how the coronavirus would impact. Less than 30 students who did not have alternative accommodation remained in College. Students moved back home with their families and we began to adjust to the ‘new normal’ – learning and engaging in ways we could have never imagined. We have also provided a rebate of 55% of semester 2 fees to pass on savings from reducing services, as well as investing some of our retained earnings to support our students.

Our Education and Student Life department, impressively led by Director, alumnus Will Cesta, planned and executed an incredibly in-depth online program for our students, with a very short lead time. Thus, the strength of our community has continued unabated, evidenced daily in our online interactions. Finding ways to stay connected in the absence of physical interaction was a challenge that our Andrew’s men and women rose to with enthusiasm. ‘Moving Online’ (page 12) looks at the myriad ways Androvians have continued to remain connected. College has been able to offer unique opportunities in the digital sphere such as language courses, mentoring, and the launch of Drew’s Forum – a platform dedicated to sharing ideas and information.

Our 2020 Student Executive have contributed a piece on page 6; they have remained a positive influence for the Students’ Club throughout this time. We also introduce our

newest St Andrew’s Scholars on page 18. This diverse and ambitious group are a terrific addition to our College and we look forward to following their achievements.

Our Drew’s News blog continues to publish original pieces each week, penned by current students. A new piece by the student editor, ‘Turning Back the Clock’, is on page 28. These pieces often reflect the present state of the world and we encourage our community to visit the blog regularly.

Despite the challenges, we are working hard to retain a strong presence amongst prospective students looking to apply to St Andrew’s for 2021. Our Admissions Marketing program remains robust, despite the lack of expos and events. Our inaugural Pre-Tertiary Mentoring Program is currently underway – you can learn more about this initiative on page 19. It has brought together Year 12 students with current Androvians acting as mentors and tutors. We look forward to seeing this program grow.

COVID-19 has necessitated a postponement of the planned rerunning of the Broderick survey. Over a two-year period starting in 2018, the College implemented all 23 recommendations contained within the Broderick Review report. We look forward to reviewing the survey in 2021, and sharing the results with our community. Our journey of cultural renewal will always remain an important aspect of life at St Andrew’s.

We are in the midst of planning a carefully staged return to College in the coming weeks, following government guidelines

and recommendations. Students returning to campus will be a highlight of 2020 and we are confident that Semester 2 will see St Andrew’s continue to thrive regardless of the changes we must adapt to and the obstacles that may be ahead.

We realise that for many of our own students, COVID-19 has presented unforeseen and considerable hardship. To combat this, we have established the St Andrew's COVID-19 Relief Fund to ensure students can direct their focus to their studies, their well-being and the welfare of their loved ones; not whether they can afford to come to College. The Principal, the College’s Alumni Society and a number of staff, alumni and parents have already made generous donations to help launch the Fund and we ask you to join with us, if you are in a position to do so, in supporting our students. Please contact our Director of Advancement, Hannah Atwell, for more information about how to make a gift.

Our College has overcome many unforeseen hurdles in the first half of this year. Thank you to our students, Council, staff, parents and broader community for their input throughout the semester; the ongoing support we have received has been greatly appreciated.

Wayne Erickson Charlie Taylor (Fr 1982) Principal Senior Student 1985 Chair of Council

From our Student Leaders

With College’s strong start to 2020, things did seem perhaps, a little too good to be true. Within just two months, we had welcomed the largest-ever fresher intake, experienced an incredible Welcome Week, opened the new ThyneReid Link building and emerged victorious from two of two intercollegiate competitions. With training for Palladian Dance, Rosebowl Netball and Swimming underway, 2020 was certainly shaping up to be a successful year.

But whilst it is easy to feel down about the monotonous routines that we currently find ourselves in, the effect of COVID-19 on the Students’ Club is put into perspective by looking back 100 years. When the Spanish Flu took hold of Drew’s in May 1919, 56 of 81 students became ill and the now Reading Room was converted into a temporary hospital ward, with nurses and doctors employed by the College. Conversely, since March 27th, we seem to be in a much better position, with many Facetimes (and the occasional Face-wine), isolation TikTok challenges, and opportunities for continued professional and personal development through the Drews Forum.

Whilst challenging without doubt, it has been reassuring (particularly so to the senior year students who are soon to move out) to see that friendships live on beyond the walls of St Andrew's – currently through the online space, or the

occasional exercise meet-up. And just as the friendships are enduring, so too are the efforts from Androvians in isolation. From our exchange students returning to England to deliver food to the heroes of the NHS, to continued training for the now Tokyo 2021 Olympics, we are all finding ways to keep busy.

We do love being back with our families all over the world, but nevertheless we certainly have our sights set on returning to the Dining Hall and the Glen and sharing good times with our mates again. We’ll probably embrace College even more so when we’re back, with a newfound appreciation for the connections and memories that it fosters. As we continue to ensure the College spirit burns bright from afar, the House Committee also has one eye set on our return. Plans are well underway to ensure that we make the most of 2020, and that our College experience is as valuable as ever.

But hey, if worst does come to worst, at least we’ll still end up top of the Rawson and Palladian ladders (girls, we know you would’ve brought Netball home too).

Jack Grant Adele Burke Ben Adams Senior Student Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer

How 2020 began...

Most St Andrew’s College journeys begin in the same way: with a student dragging a hefty suitcase across a cobblestone path lined with gumtrees until they finally look up and see an unobstructed vista of a Scottish castle and the smile of a Welcome Week Mentor ready to help them move in.

Even veterans of move-in day (those who have been involved as a nervous Fresher, an enthusiastic Mentor and a proud parent a generation later) are not immune to the excitement that descends upon the College as Freshers become acquainted with their new home.

This year, more than 185 new students (the largest cohort in the College’s history) participated in this Welcome Week ritual, which was marked by hundreds of memorable moments, from the amusing sight of alarmingly sweaty Mentors pretending that the fridge they had just carried up three flights of stairs ‘isn’t as heavy as it looks’ to the broad grins of new students who ‘snagged a pretty big room’. It is difficult to capture the mood more aptly than by quoting the College Chaplain’s welcome address: ‘the vibes are good,’ he observed.

And in the week that followed, the vibes remained good –great, in fact. Freshers were treated to a festival of parties, information sessions, athletic challenges, support sessions, intercollegiate events, meet-and-greets, and so on. Each activity formed part of what the Principal described, in his Welcome Week Address, as Andrew’s fulfilling its ‘responsibility to bring its new residents into the embrace of the College community’. Each interaction strengthened what will no doubt be a lifelong embrace.

Student Mentors, drawing upon the extensive training they had completed prior to the arrival of Freshers (more than 20 training modules, from first aid to mentor training) managed the logistical and other challenges exceptionally.

Though the events that transpired six weeks later were disappointing, the experience of Welcome Week and the following few weeks lingers fondly in the memories of participants, all of whom eagerly await the resumption of life on campus.

Will Cesta Director (Education & Student Life)

The Thyne Reid Link Building is Complete

The Thyne Reid Link Building was officially completed and handed over to the College in early February, just in time for the arrival of students for Semester 1. Despite the delays that the project faced with initial Council approvals, and then later with uncontrollable weather that arrived in March and April, the project was finished on time and also on budget! This is a wonderful achievement for the College, the Council and specifically the Major Works Committee, who have managed this project from beginning to end.

The brand new wing, which links the existing Thyne and Reid buildings, boasts 85 brand new bedrooms, many of which are ensuites, as well as 4 apartment style units that allow groups of 4-5 students to live and cook together. The Link building’s fully-equipped gym and studio space has been very popular with students, whilst a generous new common room space, kitchenette area, three tutorial spaces and four new music rooms (three of which contain pianos) are perfectly suited for study, rehearsals, and social activities. The new laundries and bathrooms next to the gym are both practical additions that enhance the functionality of the entire wing, and for that matter, the entire St Andrew’s campus. To say the College and current students were delighted with the final result when they arrived

back to College in February, would be an understatement. As Senior Student, Jack Grant put it:

The TRL Project has been well worth the wait! Whether it is utilising the new study spaces, music rooms and gym, providing a social hub to connect with mates, or even just avoiding the wet weather when walking from Reid to the Dining Hall, the Link has already unlocked a new world of opportunities for the Students’ Club and the College going forward.

Indeed, there are many benefits to the new facilities contained in the building, as Ben Adams, the Students’ Club Treasurer explained:

The inclusion of self-contained apartments in the new Thyne Reid Link has been one of the most noticeable changes this year. Allowing four or five senior students to live in an apartment style accommodation has been a refreshing change to the residential experience at College. Although there was something special about the old gym across the oval, having a new, modern gym nestled in the basement of the Link has vastly improved the accessibility and practicality of exercising at Drew’s.

Maisie McFadyen, Alumni Secretary, had only good things to say about the new wing as well:

What I have loved most is the new gym found on the bottom floor. Equipped with state of the art equipment, it made fitting exercise into the day very easy and social! I know I also speak for the student body when I say that the new study spaces were very impressive, and made studying easy at the start of the semester. It created plenty of space for either silent study, more communal study sessions, or even musical rehearsals. The Thyne Reid Link has a homely and inclusive atmosphere and I know all students were enjoying the facilities whilst campus was open!

For many students, having such incredible facilities in such close proximity to their homes has had a huge impact on their overall College experience, as fourth-year student Harry Wright commented:

The new wing has enhanced my College experience more than ever before. Using the new study spaces, music rooms and gym which are integrated into the same area as my own room has benefited my own experience but made me feel a greater connection to other students in all other year groups.

Whilst the onset of COVID-19 has meant the College has been closed to visitors for the majority of Semester 1, we are very excited to show the building to the rest of our community when restrictions are lifted in the second half of the year. We invite all St Andrew’s students, alumni, parents, friends and supporters to join us at the Official Opening Ceremony, which will be celebrated when circumstances permit. Details of this special event will be circulated with our community as soon as is possible. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the preview on the following pages.

Hannah Atwell Director of Advancement

If you would like to contribute to the new building, there are a number of areas that require funding support and offer naming opportunities including bedrooms, music rooms, tutorial rooms and a public artwork. Please contact the Director of Advancement, Hannah Atwell via: E:advancement@standrewscollege.edu.au

T: + 1 61 9565 7303

Moving Online: An Update from the Education & Student Life Department

According to Google, use of the search term ‘unprecedented’ increased tenfold between January and March of this year. For Andrew’s, 2020 was expected to present at least one unprecedented challenge: managing the largest student population increase in the College’s history (thanks to the opening of the Thyne Reid Link building). But it was of course a different unprecedented challenge that transformed the College from a vibrant, bustling community of excited adults (some of whom were just starting to penetrate the surface of collegiate life) into an online community longing, like the rest of the world, for things to get back to normal.

When the College campus closed in March, the Education & Student Life Department (which is responsible for running tutorials, competitions, online events, leadership training, music programs, well-being programs, and so on) resolved to adapt – rather than suspend – programs. Fortunately, this approach proved to be the right one. Six weeks after College programs had moved online, the Department’s new Zoom accounts had already recorded more than 200,000 minutes of tutorials, mentoring sessions, professional development

sessions, professional skills workshops, and other online activities involving more than 4,500 participants in 15 countries.

The experience of moving online has highlighted several things. The first is how valuable the connection between students and the broader College community can be. From Councillors to alumni to parents, many friends of College have agreed to ‘pitch in’. Already, many have participated in the Drews Forum, a platform dedicated to sharing interesting, challenging and useful ideas and information with current students; more than a dozen talks have already taken place, traversing topics such as presentation skills, starting your own brewery, working in the construction industry and rowing 5,000km across the Atlantic Ocean.

Meanwhile, others have taken part in the College’s new language courses, which are intended to give students of any faculty the chance to learn a second, third or fourth language. Our most popular language tutor is a current student’s parent (who has been voluntarily running French

tutorials from overseas, a contribution for which the College is especially grateful).

The experience has also highlighted how powerful online platforms can be. These platforms have enabled the College to facilitate meaningful conversations between exceedingly busy people who ordinarily could not travel to College (including those living overseas). Another example of the richness of digital connection has been exhibited through the Pre-Tertiary Mentoring and Tutoring Program, which the Admissions Office and Education & Student Life Department set up this year. Zoom has enabled 140 College students to engage with 200 HSC students across hundreds of mentoring and tutoring sessions. This initiative, which draws together individuals from all around Australia, could not take place without online platforms. Online programs are not a longterm substitute for in-person activities, but there have been so many superb ‘Zoom moments’ that it would be remiss of the Education & Student Life Department not to integrate this technology into future programs.

The decision to move online has also served as a reminder of the value of university colleges. While most University of Sydney and UTS students are winding down for the day, College students are clicking Zoom links to an ‘Industry Insights’ presentation run by an alumnus, tuning into a tutorial taken by a high-achieving senior student, running a mentoring session for HSC students, participating in a writing competition, attending a presentation skills workshop, or seeking the support of staff and student mentors.

A former Vice-Principal of St Andrew’s College used to say that ‘if our buildings burned to the ground, the College would not cease to exist’. If his argument were ever awaiting vindication, it has finally arrived; uninhabitable though the College campus has been, the connection between members of the community has endured. In many ways, what promised to be a fun and successful semester has been just that.

Will Cesta Director (Education & Student Life)

Reflections on the Taylor Scholar Program

Five years ago, St Andrew’s College began challenging the idea that ‘college is a three-year experience’. This idea, like many ‘traditions’, is relatively young; there was a time when most Senior Students did not take office until their fourth or fifth years in residence (which remains the case in many Australian colleges today). So where did the idea come from, and isn’t three years enough?

The idea presumably emerged from the feeling that three years is enough; there are only so many nights one can spend in the Highlander Bar, and even fewer nights one can participate in a Victory Dinner (especially if an honours year is looming). Perhaps another contributing factor was that the privilege of residing at College is expensive; it costs far more to provide and therefore access collegiate education than university accommodation.

Challenging the ‘three years and out’ paradigm therefore entailed two things: expanding the scope of new opportunities available to fourth- and fifth-year students, and ensuring that continued College membership is financially achievable. It is these purposes that have been fulfilled so aptly by the Taylor Scholars Program over the last five years.

The Program, which was personally funded by Chair of Council Charlie Taylor, provides scholarships that make it financially viable for students to stay at College while also supporting them to pursue projects that enrich the community. From fitness classes to academic engagement initiatives, the projects (not to mention presence) of Taylor Scholars have enriched the lives of hundreds of College residents.

This year’s Taylor Scholars have made particularly important contributions to (online) collegiate life. Each scholar was required to adapt their projects – devised at the end of 2019 with the physical world in mind – to the online environment. Their quick thinking and resourcefulness has borne much fruit: an investment club, an expedition society, a new jazz band mentoring project, a new choir ensemble, instrumentlearning workshops, an elite athlete mentoring program, an Indigenous student mentoring program, fitness classes and a lead student representative for the Pre-Tertiary Mentoring & Tutoring Program. All 2020 Taylor Scholar projects are now running online and benefiting hundreds of members of the Andrew’s community.

Given that the Program is responsible for tens of communityenriching projects and financially supported many students to remain at College, it is easy to classify it as a success. But there are even more far-reaching consequences worth noting: a new way of thinking about ‘life after third year’. Before the Program was introduced, you could count the College’s fourth- and fifth-year students on one hand (and some years you would not have needed any fingers to record a precise figure). But almost five years on, there is a substantial community of extraordinarily engaged and well-respected senior students contributing to collegiate life on a daily basis, in part because they know how much the College (from Freshers to the Chair of Council) values their presence.

In 2020, 25 individuals (17 residential and 8 non-residential) decided to remain as College students beyond their third year, including Rawson stars (one of whom scored a particularly impressive century in the cricket earlier this year), virtuoso musicians (who continue to enrich the College ensembles) and some of the College’s finest tutors. There are even two former Taylor Scholars on staff at present.

This paradigm shift and corresponding growth in senior students does not mean that most students will one day reside in College for the entire duration of their degrees (as was once customary); for many students, three years will remain enough. But thankfully, steps taken by the College – Chair of Council Charlie Taylor especially – mean that the option is now on the table; and for many, that option is very attractive.

Will Cesta Director (Education & Student Life)

2020 Taylor Scholar Projects

Investment Club

Zac Whitehead (Fr 2016) & Tom Dowse (Fr 2016)

Zac and Tom, are for the second year now, continuing to run a platform dedicated to exchanging knowledge about investment. The program teaches participants about the risks and potential rewards associated with investing, and receives support from alumni with expertise in the area.

Jazz Band Mentoring

Ben Herlihy (Fr 2017)

Though the College campus is closed, the Jazz Band continues to rehearse and jam online under the leadership of Jim Osborne, who will be mentored by Ben . Band members will run online workshops and tutorials. They will also be making online recordings.

Learn an Instrument

Nicky Craze (Fr 2016)

Nicky is facilitating a program designed to get non-musicians or amateur musicians to learn an instrument during the COVID-19 pandemic. He hopes to unite the community by providing a fun common goal - learning, or perhaps relearning instruments.

Recruitment & Training for the Pre-Tertiary Studies Program

Lachie Barrett (Fr 2017)

The Pre-Tertiary Studies Program is a leadership initiative that involves current St Andrew's College students mentoring and tutoring high school students. Lachie is working to identify and train students interested in participating in this program.

Drews Elite Athlete Program

Wallis Russell (Fr 2018)

As an elite rower and student, Wallis has undertaken a project intended to help elite athletes navigate the challenges of COVID-19 (which entails redeveloping their academic and sporting goals). The program is currently running through Facebook Messenger.

Indigenous Mentoring Program

Rohan Browning (Fr 2016)

St Andrew's College is committed to helping Indigenous scholars reach their potential. Rohan has devised a project that aims to improve awareness around what the College can offer Indigenous students and help Indigenous students procure the financial support they need to come to College.

Drews Fitness

Jack Richards (Fr 2017) & Hugo Mactier (Fr 2017)

Jack and Hugo are running online fitness classes that students can complete at home with minimal equipment. They have already posted numerous workouts via Facebook Live and aim to help everyone stay fit and healthy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Big Choir

Lily Harper (Fr 2017)

Like the Jazz Band, the 'Big Choir' (as distinct from the College Chamber Choir) will continue to rehearse and learn music coordinated by Lily, though this is occurring in an online setting throughout the closure of the St Andrew's College campus.

Expedition Society

Tom Hunt (Fr 2017)

The Expedition Society was formed to provide students with the opportunity to undertake challenging outdoor activities. Though the society is somewhat limited by the present circumstances, Tom and participants have been brainstorming ideas and planning group activities to be executed when restrictions lift.

Performance Workshops

Sam Vail (Fr 2017)

Performance workshops are short performance sessions in which musicians play excerpts for each other and share feedback. Sam is facilitating online performance workshops via Zoom and providing a musical discussion platform designed to help musicians refine their skills.

Academic Report

St Andrew’s College students attend a mix of Sydney’s best universities, including the University of Sydney, the University of New South Wales, and the University of Technology, Sydney. We celebrate and appreciate this diversity of institution, degree and subject area for our students. We believe it’s vital that students receive a wellrounded tertiary education within a collegial environment. A college experience allows for engineers to become best friends with musicians and artists, medical students who learn from historians and sociologists, media professionals who speak with scientists and mathematicians, and vice versa.

It has been five years since we first introduced our academic minimum requirement that all students at St Andrew’s achieve an annual average mark of 65 or higher, with no fails. Accompanying this change was increased funding for the College’s residential life programs in academic support, pastoral care, leadership training, professional development, music and the arts, sport, and community engagement.

Since instituting this policy change and increasing the amount of support we provide for our students, our students have achieved impressive academic results while continuing to perform at a very high level in

extra-curricular activities including the Rosebowl, Rawson and Palladian intercollege competitions. For the fourth semester in a row, our students’ average semester mark was over 70 across all universities. We have also found that every semester the cohort of students achieving Distinction (75-84) or High Distinction (≥85) is increasing in size. For example, in 2013 only 7% of our University of Sydney students’ marks were at a High Distinction level; in 2019 that has now doubled to 15%.

These results are a testament to our students’ determination to do well, ably supported by the College’s extensive academic program which complements a high standard of university teaching. It is a privilege to watch our students succeed and evolve into well-rounded, smart, empathetic adults who care deeply about their community and the world in which we live.

However dark things may seem in current circumstances, the future will be bright with our students leading the way.

Eloise Howse Senior Tutor

High Achievers

We extend our congratulations to the following students who have received an average mark of High Distinction or Distinction during 2019:

High Distinction Average

Dominic Albertson

Adele Burke

Xavier Eales

Kodie Goolagong

Laura Grant

Titus Grenyer

Kiran Gupta

James Haskis

Mohammed Hassan

Jack Hennessy

Jacqueline Henville

Katie Hodder

Alexander Hoskinson

Ragavi Jeyakumar

Juliet Lochrin

Thomas Mackenzie-Wood

Distinction Average

Ben Adams

William Andrews

Clare Armstrong

Clare Askey

Nicholas Baines

Holly Baker

Lachlan Barrett

Emily Bell

Thomas Bell

Harrison Best

Emma Bills

Airlie Blackman

Liam Brandwood

Judith Browne

Emily Brunner

Alexis Bundy

Chester Burns

Thomas Carraro

Clare Carter

Evangeline Cleary

Emelia Coe

Emily Cooke

Callum Cooke

Digby Cooke

Charlie Crawford

Olivia Dominguez

John Downes

Reg Dowse

Elysee Dubois

Charles Dummer

Elijah Eales

Maxwell Eastwood

Mekayla Everingham

Lucy Fenwicke

Nickoletta Flannery

Augustine Flett

Dana Free

Tom Galvin

Alexandra Gerrard

Suzanne Glenday

Jasper Gotterson

Annabel Gray

Julian Guinane

Edmund Haines

Samuel Halsted

Rhiannon Hames

Benjamin Hansen

Elizabeth Harper

Zoe Haseler

Jamie Hepburn

Benjamin Herlihy

Elizabeth Hewish

Charlotte Hines

Andrew Hingston

Ching Ho

Beatrice Hobson

Patrick Holt

Thomas Hunt

Clare Hunt

India Jackson

Rachel Jeffreson

Ingrid Jones

Alice Nason

Poppy Philip

Amey Sonawane

Emma Tanevska

Olivia Taylor

Mia Thomas

Amy White

Lachlan Zhou

Christina Kirkwood

Sabrina Kitson

Andrew Knight

Kristina Lane

Cecily Larsen

Zoe Latham

Alice Litchfield

Clarissa Luk

Anna Mactier

Katherine Marsh

Lachlan Martin

Jemima McCalman

Maisie McFadyen

Harriet Miesegaes

Sofia Milne

Katinka Morris

Mia Mossenson

Max Neville

Kate Nicol

Annie Nikolovski

Claire O'Connor

Caitlin O'Meara

James Osborne

Summer Page

Zara Paleologos

Lily Paterson

C Poulsen

Amy Preston

Jack Richards

Neive Roebuck

Anthony Rositano

Euro Ruangvanish

Cooper Sachr

Madeleine Satterthwaite

Sophie Saunders

Joshua Sechi

George Shannon

Chanel Singh

Michael Sligo

Francesca Spry

Lachlan Stewart

Hamish Taylor

Emily Tyrrell

Samuel Vail

Amy Van Dongen

Theodora Von Arnim

Hogan Wang

Gabriella Warner

Cassidy Watts

Alice Weller

Clare Wheeler

Adrian Whitehall

Violet Williams

Angus Williams

Felix Wood

Aubrey Wood

Thomas Woodcock

Harry Wright

Shivarama Yogakumar

St Andrew's Scholars

Meet our 2020 St Andrew’s Scholars as they look ahead to life in College.

Onor Nottle

(B. Arts/B. Law majoring in Politics at University of Sydney)

I view the St Andrew’s Scholars program as a journey of leadership, academia and co-curricular development which will hopefully allow me to discover and harness tools for future success. I am particularly looking forward to Palladian competitions and hope to represent Andrew’s. I have a keen interest in Oration, Debating, Drama and Vocal categories. As such, I am also keen to get involved in the College Choir. Further, I hold a strong passion for community service and looking forward to engaging in volunteer opportunities.

Kupakwashe Matangira

(B. Law in Int. Relations and Political Economy at Macquarie University)

As soon as I entered College, I was greeted by smiling faces and open arms. I have already formed wonderful friendships and had brilliant debates in such a short space of time; I simply cannot wait for what the future holds. I am especially looking forward to taking part in the intellectual life of the College, in particular debating, mooting and public speaking. I look forward to a rigorous and intense academic life (and) I am keen to engage in both the sporting and cultural life on offer. Prior to coming to Andrew’s, I articulated what my career goals and ambitions were and since then, the College community has encouraged me in all my endeavours.

Finn Ball

(B. Law/B. Economics at University of Sydney)

My time at St Andrew’s will likely mark a significant transition period in my life. Through the friendships I make at Drew’s, I hope to clearly discern my own values and aspirations as I move into adulthood. I look forward to learning more about the Drew’s community and the resources that College provides to help me excel at university. As a student from a regional area, I would love to contribute to programs that enhance the opportunity for other regional students to access university and College. The financial security of the Scholars program has allowed me to consider a range of opportunities that I previously would not have been able to. I feel privileged and look forward to finding ways of contributing back in the future.

Pre-Tertiary Studies Program

St Andrew’s College has always been – and will remain – committed to providing young adults with educational opportunities that will enrich their lives. Almost invariably, this has entailed providing a rich tapestry of programs to our young people, to students of the College.

However, the College’s newly-created Institute of PreTertiary Studies challenged the view that our role is confined to supporting university students. The Institute, which is run jointly by the Admissions Office and Education & Student Life Department, defines its purpose as building a bridge between current St Andrew’s College students and high school students for their mutual betterment.

The Institute’s first program is called the ‘Pre-Tertiary Mentoring and Tutoring Program’. This program involves College students providing advice and guidance to HSC students on a range of topics: How do I study effectively? How do I answer this question? Who can I talk to about this problem?

The first event series of the program involved 60 students visiting – and staying at – St Andrew’s College in February. They were given information sessions, meals, mentoring sessions, and a few other fun activities… a true taste of life at Andrew’s.

But perhaps the most impactful event series has been a more recent one. The College contacted NSW schools to see if their students were interested in all-online mentoring and tutorial sessions run by our students.

The reaction from both our students and HSC students was overwhelming. More than 140 Androvians signed up to be mentors and/or tutors, while more than 200 high school students signed up to gratefully receive their support.

To date, more than 500 tutoring and mentoring sessions have been held online, bringing people together from across the country.

The 2020 Senior Student Jack Grant is delighted by the takeup. ‘I’m thrilled, but not surprised, that so many of my peers have jumped on board,’ he said. ‘And the feedback already has been that they are getting as much out of this as the HSC students. It’s an amazing opportunity to develop your leadership and teaching skills, and the feeling of giving back has been really rewarding.’

Conscious of the financial challenges people are facing, the College has incurred all costs associated with running the program.

You can learn more about the Institute of Pre-Tertiary Studies (in particular the Pre-Tertiary Mentoring and Tutoring Program) here: https://www.standrewscollege.edu.au/st-andrews-collegeannounces-pre-tertiary-studies-program/.

Minami Takahashi Dean of Admissions

Rawson 2020 Cricket

A strong Rawson Cricket Campaign saw St Andrew's make an early move in their bid to retain the Rawson Cup. In a campaign dominated by individual brilliance, St Andrew's reign supreme for the fourth consecutive year.

Round one saw the boys take on Wesley at home. Having lost the toss, we were sent in to field. Early inroads from the opening pair of Charlie Cassell (2/23) and Ryan O’Beirne (2/17) saw St Andrew's make an imposing impression on the competition. Some classy fielding, including a one-handed screamer from debutant Harry Moses, allowing the team to maintain pressure on the Wesley outfit. However, it was fresher Freddy Payne who stole the show with one of the finest Rawson debut performances to date. His scintillating spell of 5 for 5, including a double hattrick, saw the Wesley lower order capitulate and finish on a modest total of 74. The opening pair of Tom Galvin (23) and Nicky Craze (37*) made light work of the chase, with St Andrew's passing the score in the seventh over, with the loss of only one wicket.

Round two saw the Andrew's men come across a strong St Paul's outfit, who were keen to restore some of their damaged pride after their shock defeat to St John's in round one. Having won the toss, St Andrew's elected to bowl on a green wicket which looked to cause plenty of issues for

batsmen. The boys were successful in maintaining their recent dominance over the St Paul's batsmen, bowling them out for 139. The Andrew's batsmen again proved formidable, with Nicky Craze (58) and Charlie Dummer (48*) leading the onslaught that saw St Andrew's reach the target two wickets down in the 11th over.

The final saw St Andrew's take on St John's, in what will go down as one of the most tense matches in recent years. Winning the toss and sending John's in to bat, the boys were faced with some initial resistance from the John's batsmen. Tight spells from Ryan O’Beirne, Tom Galvin and Charlie Cassell saw the scoring restricted, though wickets proved hard to come by. Our fielding efforts remained the benchmark for the competition, and after a long graft we bowled St John's out for 197 in the 50th over. After a shaky start with the bat, Tom Galvin produced a campaign defining innings, belting 110 in an epic display of power hitting. With St Andrew's needing three to win, Jack Hennessey launched a massive six, passing the John’s score and cementing the fourth consecutive campaign victory.

Charlie Dummer (Fr 2018) Rawson Cricket Secretary 2020

Palladian Solo Instrumental; Winners!

The first Palladian event of the year was the Solo Instrumental competition, held on the evening of Tuesday 10th March. This was the first and last event before the country went into lockdown, and we won it! And so we are off to a great start for Palladian in 2020.

Our two competitors were freshers Angela Shin (Cello) and Nina Fan (Piano). Angela placed first with a beautiful rendition of Hungarian Rhapsody by David Popper on the Cello. Her performance was superb and the adjudicators were unanimous in their decision; she was the clear choice because of the professionalism and musicality of her performance. Angela played with emotion, and it was truly special to listen to. When the piece was over, the room burst into a loud and passionate applause, which was very well deserved.

Nina performed Franz Liszt’s Grande Etude de Paganini No. 6 on the Piano. This performance was very impressive, especially given Nina had the difficult task of performing first in the event. Nina displayed tremendous skill as the piece moved between polar intensities in rhythm, volume and mood. It was a rollercoaster. The audience was captivated

by the performance and this was reflected in their applause.

The standard of all of the performers across all colleges was exceptionally high this year. A pianist from the Women's College placed second, and a saxophonist from St Paul's took third. Overall, it was a beautiful night of music.

After the performance, the horde of Drew’s supporters all celebrated by gathering on the oval and singing the Drew’s Song. This was a great start to the year!

Jim Osborne (Fr 2019) 2020 Jazz Band Convenor

Michelle Carr (Fr 2008)

Michelle Carr (Fr 2008) works in Infrastructure Construction Management at Facebook, where her team is responsible for building the global physical infrastructure that brings their apps and services to billions of people around the world. Michelle shared with us what her time at College and university was like, the challenges of moving abroad and what a typical day in her life working at Facebook looks like.

Can you tell us a bit more about your Infrastructure Construction Management role at Facebook? What does your role involve?

Our team is responsible for building Facebook’s global physical infrastructure that brings Facebook apps and services to billions of people around the world. My current role manages our long term strategic planning all the way through preconstruction to handover to the construction team on our global sites. I love working on our strategy, collaborating with a range of different teams and setting our projects up for success.

What are some of the best parts and even the worst parts of your job?

Facebook operates on a truly unprecedented scale. A third of the world’s population rely on Facebook products to keep them connected every single day, and our teams work hard to make that possible. Managing at our scale has unique challenges and requires unconventional thinking, which is what I really enjoy about the job. Another great aspect of my role is the people I work with, Facebook hires extremely talented individuals with diverse backgrounds, I am always learning something new.

What does a day in your life look like?

Due to the nature of my role I don’t really have a typical day as I travel a lot for work and work on many different projects, but this is roughly what it looks like:

5.15am – Wake up

6am – Get the Facebook shuttle to work (many tech companies have shuttles that take people from all around the Bay Area to the office campus). I normally respond to emails or prep for my meetings on the shuttle.

7am – Grab breakfast at one of our cafeterias on campus.

7.30am – 4pm – I am normally in back-to-back meetings all day. They vary from meetings planning our future site strategies; to meeting with our internal teams for design changes or utility commitments; to establishing and reviewing budgets, schedules or contracts.

4pm – Get shuttle home. It normally takes about 2hrs to get home, so I’ll take my afternoon meetings or work on the shuttle.

6pm – Exercise. I either go to the gym; pilates; cycling; or play tennis or basketball.

8pm – Have dinner, and catch up with friends or family.

What has been your biggest accomplishment so far –career or otherwise?

I had travelled a lot before moving overseas, but I underestimated how challenging moving abroad is, even to an English-speaking country. It required me to navigate complex immigration systems, new healthcare and tax systems, and even smaller things like having to re-sit my drivers test. I knew only one person when I moved to San Francisco, so building new friendships and navigating a similar but different culture was tough. Having to reestablish my career and create new work networks pushed me to challenge myself. The experience has given me a different perspective and appreciation for people; the US and Australia; and even myself.

What have you enjoyed most about living in San Francisco?

And what do you miss most about Australia?

San Francisco is an incredibly vibrant city, there is always something going on – concerts, festivals, lectures, shows, comedy, films, and it’s really close to incredible national parks, surfing and snow. It’s amazing the amount of people that are working on cool and innovative things, like AI for health applications and VR for education. I miss my family and friends in Australia, and definitely miss the Australian beaches.

You can read the full interview with Michelle on the College website: www.standrewscollege.edu.au/alumnicommunity/androvians/

Toby Buchanan (Fr 2007)

Project planning software developer nPlan is using machine learning to construct the world’s first system to understand construction planning. Toby Buchanan (Fr 2007) is General Manager at nPlan and has been central to their growth. He shared with us what his time at St Andrew’s College and later the London Business School was like, his experience of moving abroad, what it is like working at nPlan and his words of advice to young Androvians who may be struggling to choose a career path.

Why did you decide to do an MBA? Can you tell us about your experience at London Business School?

My job at Lendlease was very demanding, with long hours and weekend work. It was also very focused on project delivery, and I felt I didn’t have the whole picture of how a successful business works, nor the capacity to explore this due to the demands of the job.

I was already working in London and London Business School is one of the top business schools in the world, so I applied. LBS will go down as one of the most influential periods in my life – it was completely eye-opening. Much like Drew’s, there were a lot of smart, interesting, and driven people which was exciting to be a part of. Postgraduate education, when everyone has consciously decided to attend and is giving up a lot to be there, has a different energy and level of engagement than undergrad. It also sparked an interest in technology and how that will change the construction industry, which I am now pursuing in my work.

What has it been like living in London?

As I write this in May, I think London is wonderful as the sun is out and the days are long. If I wrote it in January, I might feel differently! Jokes aside, our London experience has been fantastic. Uprooting your life and putting yourself out of your comfort zone can be challenging but rewarding. I love Sydney and it is definitely “home”, but it can be difficult to break out of your bubble. Moving to London was like starting college – putting yourself out there, friend “dating”, and exploring new places. Doing all this aged 30 has meant forming great friendships with people I wouldn’t have met at 20. We are also lucky to have several women and men from Drew’s and other colleges living here in London, who have become our de facto family.

Professionally, there are a lot of opportunities in London, especially in the start up and technology space. It has been really exciting to be a part of this community!

What do you miss most about Australia?

I would say the revolving door of political leaders, but there’s plenty of that here too! It’s cliché, but friends and family. I remember on the first day at Drew’s, John Sergeant (then Vice Principal), said to look left and right at the people next to you. Many of you will get married and have families together. John was right – there is a fresher 2007 baby boom happening right now! It’s been hard at times being away for big milestones like weddings and the arrival of babies.

What is it like being General Manager at nPlan? Can you share some of the pros and maybe even cons of your job? I joined nPlan because I was looking for a role where I could have an impact at an organisation and industry level… a modest goal! Our team has doubled in size since I joined, and I have been central to the way we have grown. We have applied groundbreaking applications of machine learning to solving the problem of rampant delays in major construction projects, and this is changing the way our customers make consequential decisions. I have very much enjoyed being at the center of this as we continue to crack this tough problem. The flip side of working on an exciting but challenging problem is that the ride to achieving our ambition is full of ups and downs. This can be difficult endure, but on the balance, I enjoy it.

You can read the full interview with Toby on the College website: www.standrewscollege.edu.au/alumni-community/ androvians/

From the SACAS Society

Whilst the Alumni Society has not been able to host the usual Semester 1 alumni events in 2020 (Rawson Rugby Finals, Young Alumni Drinks), we are currently assisting the College and Students' Club in a number of different ways in dealing with the immediate effects of the pandemic. While we appreciate it is a drop in the bucket, we have brought forward the remaining instalments of our $50,000 pledge towards the new TRL Building to this calendar year and have made a donation of $15,000 towards the Principal's COVID -19 Relief Fund. We like to think the latter donation is made on behalf of those alumni who would have ordinarily contributed to such a fund but now find themselves unable to do so.

We are also separately looking at expanding the number of our annual Society Scholarships over the next year with a particular focus on helping out alumni connections who are financially distressed. Further, we are actively working on strengthening existing informal alumni networks to help current students and young alumni obtain practical experience or a foothold in their chosen profession or occupation in a tighter labour market.

Personally, I would like to thank the Principal and the other officers of the College, Students' Club executive, Councillors and Foundation Board members for their work in responding to the pandemic. It has been a privilege to watch some fine minds spring into action to protect the fabric and essence of the College. From the Society's perspective, we hope that this moment of crisis passes quickly and College life can resume shortly in all its full colour.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the service of a longstanding committee member who has recently retired, Adam Casselden SC, and also thank current Committee members Cameron Ireland, Don Nicol, Jeremy Hoffman Lucas Smith and Andrew Huckel for their work. I would also like to thank new members Simon Carson, Simon Ward, Sasha Kovic, Katherine Suttor and Georgie Quigley for agreeing to join the Society Committee as of late 2019.

Alex Rhydderch (Fr 1994) President, St Andrew's College Alumni Society Senior Student 1997

1954 Fresher Reunion

On Wednesday, 11th March 2020, a luncheon was held at the College to celebrate the 66th anniversary of our 1954 freshers. The following nine 1954 freshers attended: Colin Davidson, Andrew Ferguson, Denis Gordon, Richard Halliday, David Houston, Davidson Mathieson, Angus Munro, Keith Murree-Allen and Herb Sternberg. Apologies were received from Don Jamieson and Kim Ostinga.

After a guided tour of the new Link Building with the Principal, Wayne Erickson, and Advancement staff, the group gathered for a very enjoyable 3-course lunch in the Senior Common Room. The Principal joined them for drinks and provided a summary of the current College position.

'The whole occasion was most worthwhile. There was much reminiscing and sharing of recent experiences since we last met in 2019. We all left in good spirits determined to get together again next year.' - Colin Davidson (Fr 1954)

From the Archives

'Rabid

Sectarianism

and Personal Antipathies': John Dunmore Lang and the Foundation of St Andrew’s College

The Senior Common Room’s portrait of J. D. Lang, 1855. This portrait was made while Lang was serving a four-month prison sentence in Parramatta Gaol for libel. The artist, William Griffiths, a fellow prisoner, made this likeness on speculation and allegedly Lang never paid for the work.

In the College’s Senior Common Room, grim nineteenthcentury portraits of the Reverend Doctors John Dunmore Lang and Robert Steel glare in opposing directions, refusing to meet each other’s eye. These men, both eminent in the mid-nineteenth-century politics of the Presbyterian Church, played prominent roles in the foundation of the College. However, they were bitter rivals in this project: Lang once described Steel as the ‘veritable Pharisee of the Pharisees’. Nevertheless, there is more to the College’s origins and to Lang than his scintillating invective. The fierce conflict over the future of ten acres in the corner of the University’s grounds revealed the larger divisions in New South Wales Presbyterianism in the nineteenth century.

In 1865, the General Assembly of Presbyterian Churches finally achieved a union of the Synod of Australia, the Free

Church (led by Steel), Lang’s Synod of New South Wales, and the United Presbyterians. However, Lang’s 1872 observation that the College Council’s deliberations exhibited ‘the rabid sectarianism and the personal antipathies of the dominant [Free Church]’ shows that the Act of Union failed to heal the divisions of each faction. Suffused by the colonial awareness of creating a new society, the fraught election of the College’s first Principal aggravated these arguments about the doctrinal future of the Church.

Lang’s frustrations, originating in the uneasy 1865 Union, manifested themselves dramatically in his contributions to the College’s Provisional Committee and Council. When in 1862 Lang and his brother Andrew began the legislative process of founding a ‘Presbyterian College’, he felt certain his claim as Principal ‘would not be disputed’. Such a post was important to Lang because the College’s 1867 Enabling Act provided for the establishment of a Theological School; whosoever established the traditions of Presbyterian education would hold a doctrinal influence of generational proportions. However, from 1865 the General Assembly and particularly Steel began to exert their influence on the process. They demanded amendments to the College Bill, changed its name to St Andrew’s College, and altered the theological balance of the Provisional Committee. The significance of Lang’s broad vision for the College as the institutional guarantee of the future of Presbyterian education and theological orthodoxy in the antipodes had been recognised by the other factions of the Church.

As the College’s Provisional Committee continued to raise £10,000 in subscriptions to match the government’s contribution, Steel and his Free Church colleagues grew in influence. In 1870, ahead of the first impending vote for College Council, Steel returned from the New England district with subscriptions of £1170, whereas Lang was only able to produce £108. Outraged, Lang accused Steel of thinly veiled electioneering. He later argued that by this ‘artful but unwarrantable and unjust appropriation of… a field of exclusive agitation’, Steel had ensured a Free Church majority on Council.

The first nominations for the Principalship were fraught and inconclusive. Steel withdrew early leaving the Reverends Adam Thomson and Lang as the main candidates. However, there seems to have been a view that having no college at all was better than a College with Lang as Principal. In 1871,

prominent layman Mathew Whytlaw wrote to the Secretary of Council saying that he could not ‘conscientiously contribute one farthing’ to College if Lang were Principal. Lang was no less forthright in his condemnation of what he perceived to be ‘a secret conclave of Free Church plotters’.

In an attempt to find a neutral resolution, Steel moved that a candidate be selected ‘from home’ by a committee of churchmen in Scotland. However, in a speech delivered to Council on July 18, 1871, Lang vigorously opposed this compromise. He denounced the plan as ‘a gross insult to every Presbyterian minister in this Colony’ and suggested that it may not be compliant with the 1867 Act, Lang's remarks about the rictus of sectarianism afflicting the Church in Scotland are revealing. Under pressure, Council sought the legal opinion of Alexander Gordon who found that such a course would indeed be ‘inconsistent’ with the law. It was Gordon’s opinion which became a major fulcrum of Lang’s indignation in his 1872 pamphlet in which he gave full expression to perceived personal injustice and the peril of the Church.

After this setback, on a motion of lay Councillor and man of industry, John Hay Goodlet, the Reverend John Kinross of Kiama was elected Principal seven votes to two. Lang made a furious protest that this Free Churchman and ally of Steel’s should be made Principal. Lang further alleged that because Kinross was not already on the Council, his election was ‘contrary to law’. Because of these objections, Kinross recused himself as Principal on 13 August 1872. Hoping to instigate crisis in the Council, Lang declined to attend a meeting for the election of a new Principal. He maintained that ‘all the calamities and mismanagement that have hitherto befallen our institution… have resulted exclusively from [the conduct of the election of Council in 1870]’. These tactics, however, came to nothing during a meeting of Council on 24 September, Lang lost a ballot for the Principalship to Steel’s ally and fellow Councillor, Reverend Adam Thomson.

This loss infuriated Lang and he condemned the College as ‘conceived in sin and brought forth in iniquity’. Nevertheless, he remained on Council until his death in 1878 and continued to cost the College hundreds of pounds in legal expenses through his challenges to the Principalship. Contrary to the largely panegyric biographies of Lang, this conflict shows equally his indignant egotism, and genuine concern for the future of his Church and the Colony. Lang’s determination to wrest control of College away from the Free Church illuminates both sides of this complex personality.

Alex Wright (Fr 2014) Dean of Studies

An 1876 letter from Lang to the College Council which sizzles with understated, gentlemanly vitriol: ‘Revd. Dr. Lang presents his compliments’. This letter accompanied a packet of vituperative pamphlets which denounced the College and its Council as being ‘conceived in sin and brought forth in infamy’. Lang’s unique, crabbed hand, made less steady by his 77 hard years, presents a real challenge to an archivist.

The Council’s haughty reply to Lang’s pamphlets. The style of handwriting is only the meanest difference. Though the Treasurer Anderson signed the note ‘Yours respectfully’, the attitude of the Council was bitter. He told Lang, ‘The Council declined to receive the packet on the ground that the Pamphlets contain statements grossly inconsistent with facts.’

Drew's News: Turning back the clock: The Renaissance of 70s and 80s music

When Queen frontman Adam Lambert recently released his new solo album, he turned more than a few heads. Gone were the days of his unashamedly flamboyant pop songs that provoked American television audiences and propelled his postAmerican idol career. Gone were the days of him channelling his inner Lady Gaga on Glee. Instead, this was a very laidback, sultry sound far different from anything we had heard from him before. “I wanted to put something out that would wipe the slate clean. A new beginning and a new era,” he told NME.

Except, it was only really a new era for Lambert. In channelling the funky sound of the 70s, Lambert placed himself in a long line of current artists who are returning to the music of yesteryear for inspiration. Whilst this might be a logical transition for a man who currently fronts one of the biggest 80s rock bands ever, other artists are also doing similar things.

MIKA, most famous for his brash pop hit “Grace Kelly” also returned to the spotlight with an 80s-inspired pop song “Ice Cream” (complete with retro music video). British singer, Sam Smith burst onto the scene with their dulcet tones and soulful approach to modern pop music and now, they have moved into covers of 70s and 80s music which garner tens of millions of views on YouTube. The message is clear: even with young audiences, 70s and 80s music sells. But why?

First, the 70s and 80s are the decades that revolutionised the music industry. As the Western cultural sphere shifted dramatically over these two decades, the music industry arguably evolved even more. For the first time, pop stars were recognised for having “the whole package” rather than just being a singer on a record. The flamboyance of stars like Elton John, George Michael and Freddie Mercury lifted their status from “incredible singer” to “living legend.” As the first period where performers were truly revered, it is only natural that it forms a special place in music culture. As such, this era of music has such an aura and indeed nostalgia associated with it and today’s stars are savvy enough to take advantage of the surrounding hype and use it in their music.

Second, the music of the 70s and 80s coincided with the rise of the digital age. Sure, there were music videos from

before this period and if you look hard enough on YouTube, you can definitely find concert and film recordings of songs dating back to the Golden Era, but this generation of music was the first to be purposefully produced for the small screen. This means that the content is really the first content that has been packaged in a way accessible for modern-day audiences. Take a look at old 80s music videos on YouTube. Many of them have hundreds of millions of views. Even though they were not created with the shareability of social media in mind and do not have the initial wave of promotion that new videos have, they still attract a huge following due to their role in kickstarting a new generation of music and often, their novelty.

Third and most importantly, these eras are commonly associated with rebellion and reaction. Music and society were both overhauled in this period and this is something that people want to associate with. The 70s and 80s provided a diversity of sound and content that just cannot be matched

today and even subconsciously, music lovers want to replicate that. In the modern day, this equates to a rebellion against obviously technologically influenced music and a desire to connect on a primary level. Fundamentally, music is about connection and a key characteristic of 70s and 80s songs is that they showed humanity. Even looking at a number of the songs that top the charts nowadays; “Happy”, “Sign of the Times” even “Shallow”, they say something about humanity and are inextricably linked to personality and emotion. This is something that listeners connect to and is a reason why so many composers are trying to invoke the feeling of the 80s.

On this note, music that invokes the sound of a previous era has a certain degree (or at least, a perception) of authenticity to it. Even though the instruments and vocals may still be electronically produced, by invoking the sound of a previous era, it adds a level of authenticity that cannot be recreated in any other way. Even if it is just some great backing vocals or a clear drum line, people respond to the clarity that this can provide in a song. It’s also very easy for producers to electronically manipulate the sounds of the 70s

and 80s without sounding too produced (thanks to modern technology), which aids with creations in this style.

So, when you put the renaissance of 70s and 80s music in modern day pop into these terms, it actually makes a lot more sense. The artists are looking for a little bit of creative license and, of course, something that sells. The music of yesteryear provides all that, along with a little razzmatazz, flair and pizazz. It would be no surprise to see this renaissance of 70s and 80s music continue long into the future and honestly, that is something to look forward to.

Kiran Gupta (Fr 2018) Drew's News Editor

Read more thought-provoking pieces from our current Androvians at www.drewsnews.org

Alumni Events Upcoming in 2020

Young Alumni Networking Breakfast

The Young Alumni Committee is now working towards hosting this event in September after postponing it in June.

Hear from a panel of your fellow young alumni who are doing great things in both business and life. You'll also have the opportunity to see old friends and meet new associates in your respective fields over a light breakfast.

Event information will be made available as soon as details can be confirmed.

SACAS Annual Golf Day

The St Andrew's College Alumni Society warmly invites you to enjoy a day out on the Green for the Annual Golf Day at Moore Park. Tickets include afternoon tea, 18-holes of golf, electric golf carts and a dinner buffet. Register individually or as a team.

Date: Friday, 20th November 2020

Time: 1:00pm - 7.00pm

Tickets: $115

Venue: Moore Park Golf - Cnr Anzac Parade & Cleveland Street, Moore Park NSW 2021

SACAS Annual Dinner & AGM

The President and Committee of the St Andrew's College Alumni Society (SACAS) request the pleasure of you and your partner's company at the Annual Dinner & AGM.

Date: Saturday, 21st November 2020

Time: 6:00pm - Late

Tickets: $125 - General Admission, $115 - SACAS Members, $90 - Young Alumni (2000-2019 Freshers)

Venue: St Andrew's College - 19 Carillon Avenue, Newtown NSW 2042

Awards & Achievements

The College would like to congratulate the following alumni on their awards and achievements in 2020:

Cam Mostyn (Fr 2005) - Talisker Whisky Challenge

In January 2020, Cameron Mostyn and three of his friends completed the Talisker Whisky Challenge, rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. They came second overall and produced the fastest time ever by an Australian Team. Their team, known as ROWED LESS TRAVELLED, raised over $280,000 for the Black Dog Institute while they were at it.

Jaime Ryan (Fr 2013) - SUSF 2019 Sportswoman of the Year

Jaime Ryan was named Sydney Uni Sports & Fitness Sportswoman of the Year for 2019. Jaime achieved selection for the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2019 through impressive results on the world stage of sailing. In 2019, she placed 11th in the European championships and 35th in the world championships, competing in the 49erFX class in the Hempel World Cup series finishing the year ranked 7th in the world.

Dr Alexander Abrahams (Fr 1977) - University of Sydney Alumni Award

Dr Alexander Abrahams was awarded the University of Sydney Alumni Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in May. Dr Abrahams transformed dental practice in Australia by establishing the largest branded dental network, Pacific Smiles, which has over 95 dental centres across the country and employs more than 600 dentists. A philanthropist and investor in start-ups for the greater good, he has provided: seed funding for Group Homes Australia, an innovative dementia care model where residents live in suburban homes with 24-hour care; the blood testing group, Haemokinesis, which develops products for emergency and transfusion medicine; and established the Rosebrook Foundation to fund the arts and healthcare in Australia. Through the Rosebrook Foundation, Dr Abrahams donated $3.6 million to the University of Sydney’s Chair of Lifespan Oral Health. Together with his wife, Sue, he also funds an Indigenous scholarship at the University.

Obituaries

The College has learned of the following deaths in our community. Our sympathy is extended to their families.

1961 Professor John (Jack) Douglas Pettigrew

1948 Dr Herbert John Solomon

1965 Dr Owen Morgan

1968 Mr John Richard Roy Simpson

If you know of any other recent deaths in our community, please contact: +61 2 9565 7302 or alumni@standrewscollege.edu.au