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24 Contents INTRO

Head of College 02 Letter from the Editor 03 Ministry 04 SPOSA President 05 A ROUND THE SCHOOL

Cover Sarah Wang (Year 2) practises her bicycle riding skills at St Peters’ annual Bike On Day. Image courtesy of Kathleen Barker. Plus Ultra October 2018 incorporating SPOSA Bulletin Published by St Peters Lutheran College Editors/Writers: Kathleen Barker and Kelsey Bricknell Layout&Design: Kathleen Barker Advertising Enquiries Publications Office Telephone: 07 3377 6262 publications@stpeters.qld.edu.au St Peters Lutheran College CRICOS Provider: 00516E 66 Harts Road, Indooroopilly Qld 4068 Telephone: 07 3377 6222 reception@stpeters.qld.edu.au www.stpeters.qld.edu.au www.facebook.com/stpeterslutherancollege © 2018 St Peters Lutheran College SPOSA Office 66 Harts Road, Indooroopilly Qld 4068 Telephone: 07 3377 6592 sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au www.stpeters.qld.edu.au www.facebook.com/sposa45

Bike On Day 06 St Peters You’ve Got Talent 08 Writing the Future 12 School Social Graces 14 Short Story Competition 15 Geckoes Wildlife Incursion 20 Our Sister Across the Sea 24 Golden Opportunity 26 Netball 27 VAPAR 30 Ella Read: ILF Ambassador 32 Aiming for the Sky 40 One-on-one with Greta 42 Interest Spikes for Volleyball 44 St Peters Sports Lunch 46 Boarding Family Groups 48 Performer of the Year 50 St Peters Symposium #3 52 Adding up to a Good Day 53 Parade of Nations 54 Community News 58

SPOSA

Mandopop Princess

Digging up the Past

The Urban, Caloundra

The Commission Tradition

45: A Milestone Year

Painting the Town

SPOSA STAFF

Principal Craig Schmidt

Reunions 60 Vale 62

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St Peters Old Scholars BY TIM KOTZUR, HEA D OF COLLEGE

It has become a tradition to hold the St Peters Old Scholars Reunions on the first weekend of the September Student Vacation. Over the course of the Reunion Weekend, Old Scholars, from recent graduates through to our Diamond graduates celebrating 60 years since graduation, gather at various locations for functions. For some, it is an opportunity to tour the campus and marvel at its physical development since they graduated from St Peters. However, for most of our Old Scholars, the Reunion Weekend is a chance to reconnect with their former classmates and share stories of their journey since St Peters. They reminisce about different teachers, special events, sporting and musical achievements, and amusing things that happened during their time as a St Peters student. Chatting to our Old Scholars and listening to their stories, one could not help but be impressed by what so many of them had done with their lives – and so many of our Old Scholars have done truly remarkable things. Yet it was not what they had done with their lives that impressed me the most. Rather, what impressed me

SO MANY OF OUR OLD SCHOLARS HAVE DONE TRULY REMARKABLE THINGS. YET IT WAS NOT WHAT THEY HAD DONE WITH THEIR LIVES THAT IMPRESSED ME THE MOST. RATHER, IT WAS THE TYPE OF PERSON THEY HAD BECOME. greatly was the type of person they had become. They were genuinely good people, who were committed to their families. They were polite, respectful men and women interested in others. They were engaged and involved in the communities in which they were living, and giving back to and serving those communities to make them even better. The values and beliefs by which they were living their lives were clearly evident. Undoubtedly, their families would have played a significant part in the type of men and women they are.

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from the Editor This year, a television commercial for, of all things, an insurance product, turned my head. In it, the actress turns to the camera and says: “I just really want what I have today.” This line of dialogue resonated with me because, among the many people I’ve interviewed over the years for this publication, I’ve noticed they share one thing in common: they each kick-started their journey by taking advantage of an opportunity they already had in front of them. This issue is no exception. In September, ‘Bike On Day’ allowed Year 2 students to practise their bicycle riding skills. Now in its seventh year, the program was instigated by Sally Hannah, PMP Teacher, who noticed a decline in opportunities for students to ride bicycles and decided to take action (page 6). In Term 3 of 2017, the start of Lief Lundmark-Aitcheson’s journey in Junior High coincided with the annual Performer of the Year competitions. This year was the Year 10 cellists’ first opportunity to enter, and he won the Recital division (page 50). It was also evident though, that St Peters had played a significant part in shaping and moulding the type of person they had become. In reflecting on the Reunion Weekend, and in the incidental meetings with our Old Scholars at other events, it is apparent to me that one of the things that St Peters does well is help to shape and mould people of character with good values – men and women who are caring, compassionate, ethical, moral, and others-centred. A St Peters education enables our graduates to take control of their lives. It empowers them to take hold of their life trajectory, and make use of the gifts and talents that they were encouraged to discover and develop during their time at St Peters. As a result of their St Peters journey, our graduates leave our gates capable of leading and serving the communities in which they live, and in doing so, make difference in the world. To me, who our students become 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60 years after leaving school is the true measure of success, and worthy of a St Peters education.

Year 12 student, Nicole Spencer-Scarr, is a third generation pilot in the making. Upon the recommendation of her Pastoral Care teacher, she participated in USQ’s Aviation Two Day Experience in July, and says her course is now cemented (page 40). And, Old Scholar and Mandopop artist, Wendy Chen, has come a long way from singing cover songs and publishing them to YouTube. In June, she released her single ‘Peace’ – a commercial theme song for Japanese soft drink brand, ‘Calpis’ (page 10). So, for this final issue of Plus Ultra for 2018, I ask you: What’s an opportunity you have in front of you right now? I urge you take it with both hands – you never know where it may lead you. Until the next issue, I wish you every blessing.

Kathleen Barker, on behalf of the

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Ministry BY K IRSTIN MUNCHENBERG, ST PETERS INDOOROOPILLY CH A PLAIN

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Over the last year or two we have embarked on a journey to implement Positive Education at St Peters. This has meant that we have also begun an ongoing dialogue between Positive Psychology principles and our spiritual and theological traditions. It is fascinating to learn how the research and findings from the Positive Psychology movement affirm many activities from Christian traditions. We are also discovering how our Lutheran understandings broaden and provide depth to Positive Psychology principles. While it’s not feasible to undertake a full discussion in one short article, it’s worth outlining just a few areas where Positive Education meets with our Lutheran ethos: character strengths, mindfulness, and the search for meaning. Many students and staff have been focusing on their character strengths – seeking to understand where their strengths lie and what strengths they might try to develop. Linking and developing these strengths and their overarching virtues with teachings on gifts in passages such as Galatians 5:22-26 and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 and 13:1-13 allows for more depth

IT IS FASCINATING Positive Psychology also places emphasis on ‘meaning’ - the belief TO LEARN HOW that one’s life and work is valuable THE RESEARCH and a sense of connection to AND FINDINGS something greater than oneself. FROM THE POSITIVE When our sense of purpose or meaning is lost, our daily work PSYCHOLOGY MOVEMENT AFFIRM can become more of a burden. ethos reminds us MANY ACTIVITIES The Lutheran that God is with us in Christ Jesus. FROM CHRISTIAN Despite our shortcomings, God TRADITIONS. sees us as worthwhile through Jesus’ in our understanding of character strengths and an acceptance of individual differences. It also enriches discussion around how we grow and use our gifts and strengths as we live and work in community. Another key topic of study within Positive Education is that of mindfulness. Stillness, contemplation, and meditation have long been practices in the Christian tradition. Time in our worship service is often given over to stillness and quieting the mind; taking time to listen and to be open to whatever the Lord might wish to impart. Singing during worship services is also a time of simply being in the moment, focusing on the music and the Word imparted in the songs. Worship time can be a time of great inspiration and creativity, or simply time to catch one’s breath in a busy day.

life, death, and resurrection, and he calls us to live this truth. This gospel shapes our vocational thinking, so that as well as preparing students for their future study and careers we also seek to help students to look to the future with a clear sense of who they are and the values that will shape their whole life, not just their working life. As we continue this wellbeing journey at St Peters, we are reminded that Jesus said he came into the world that we might know and experience life abundantly and fully, both here and now, and into the future. And we know he will continue to journey with us, supporting us in our troubles and celebrating with us in our achievements.

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SPOSA President BY JA N HOGA RTH, SPOSA PR ESIDENT

SPOSA holds the living history of our community, in the people we stay in touch with and the objects in our care. We appear to be one tiny part of a large institution. However, as we are coming up to the 75th anniversary, SPOSA’s role is to make our culture apparent in its day-to-day life, so people realise they are connected to a much larger ongoing community across generations. SPOSA stays in touch with people so they can build relationships with each other. Our most valuable resource, the Old Scholars database, has been systematically updated in a ‘data wash’ project. We now have the recent contact details of over 19,000 members. At this year’s Reunion Weekend, approximately 300 Old Scholars in six Reunion groups met, with another three events planned for October. There is nothing like old friends from far and wide to get the memories and laughter flowing. There are countless informal catch-ups. We love to receive photos and stories of these gatherings. In a new program, we are starting to use our database to introduce current students to recent graduates for tutoring in 2019. If this interests you, please contact the SPOSA Office on 3377 6592 or at sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au

SPOSA’S ROLE IS TO MAKE OUR CULTURE APPARENT IN ITS DAY-TO-DAY LIFE, SO PEOPLE REALISE THEY ARE CONNECTED TO A MUCH LARGER ONGOING COMMUNITY ACROSS GENERATIONS.

the school. I raised this with the Head of College and Chaplaincy team, recommending that St Peters should gently acknowledge this dark aspect of College life, and open the door for healing conversations. And I was grateful to hear Tim Kotzur’s mention of this in his speech to Golden and Diamond graduates at the Reunion Weekend. If this is relevant to you, please contact Pastor Thomas Böhmert, Senior Pastor, in the first instance via on 3377 6525 or at t.bohmert@stpeters.qld.edu.au

Being associated with SPOSA is not always light and laughter. Last year, I was honoured to attend a three-day reunion in Minnesota organised by the children of American Lutheran missionaries who were posted in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Being sent away for boarding school and only returning home perhaps once a year, was a formative and diverse experience for these people. I also learned that, for a few, the experience was traumatic. For some, there was sustained physical and emotional bullying. It was not at the level revealed in the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, but nevertheless, it may be the reason that, particularly men in some year groups, have never attended reunions or returned to

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Bike On Day

On Thursday 6 September, Year 2 students at St Peters Indooroopilly took to Stolz Oval to participate in a Bicycle Education program. Run by Bike On, an organisation based at Noosaville that offers bicycle hire, tours, and school and holiday programs, students learned: how to fit a helmet; check a bicycle’s tyres, brakes, and chain; react to road signs; and balance while signalling and navigating turns. Bike On Day, as it is known, is the brainchild of Sally Hannah, Teacher of St Peters’ Perceptual Motor Program (PMP), which develops the gross motor skills of Prep to Year 3 students. Sally recalls her observations of Year 2 students in 2012, which inspired the initiative: “It originally started when I noticed how poor some of the children’s balance was. Some of the children couldn’t walk along a balance beam,” Sally explains. “That’s an indication that their proprioception [their ability to sense stimuli arising within their bodies regarding position, motion, and equilibrium], balance, and audio-balance (because balance comes from the inner ear) are underdeveloped.” But Sally also noticed something else: “I noticed there seemed to be a decline in opportunities for children to ride bicycles,” Sally reveals.

“In many families, both parents are working: they don’t have a lot of free time and, as many people are moving into units and residences are becoming smaller, they don’t have the space. Many children weren’t getting the opportunity to even get on a bicycle, let alone learn to ride one.” “So, it was decided that, if the children weren’t getting the opportunity, we’d have one day [each year] for Year 2 students when they could practise bicycle riding.”

have never ridden enjoy the benefits of one-of-one coaching and, if necessary, training wheels. When the program started, Sally estimates approximately 70 percent of students couldn’t ride a bicycle. But, thanks to renewed interest in the sport in recent years, she says the number of children who can ride is steadily increasing. “Now we’re starting to see more children ride to school,” Sally tells. “Many of the mums and dads are very involved in cycling themselves, so if they can get their children involved in an activity that they love doing, it becomes a family event.” Sally says she hopes Bike On Day will continue to champion the sport and, more importantly, give joy to students.

From the outset, the team at Bike On “Bike On Day is an important part of has administered the program, our PMP program because balance providing bicycles and helmets for is one of the most fundamental students who don’t have them, and movements,” Sally explains. teaching students everything they “Not only that, it’s a fun day for need to know to ride safely: from the children!” fitting a helmet and checking their “It’s been a great success. bicycle is in good working order; to The children love it. The change in understanding the laws of riding in their confidence is lovely to see.” parks, on footpaths, and on roads; to obeying signs and using hand signals. To find out more about Bike On, visit Students who have ridden or can www.bikeon.com.au ride hone existing skills on an obstacle course, while those who

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*Pictured: “The good thing about having it on the oval is that it’s actually harder [than riding on bitumen] and the children have to pedal harder to maintain their balance. So, right from the word go, they’re developing leg strength.” – Sally Hannah, PMP Teacher and Founder of Bike On Day.

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St Peters You’ve Got Talent

On Friday 27 July, families converged on the Performing Arts Centre at St Peters Indooroopilly for the 2018 Final of St Peters You’ve Got Talent (SPYGT). This year’s competition was dominated by Junior High performers. Year 9 student, Maddie Rushmore, won the competition with her stirring vocal rendition of Alessia Cara’s, ‘Scars To Your Beautiful’. Her Year 9 classmate, Rueben Dzajkovski, was awarded first runner-up for his wildly entertaining Napoleon Dynamite-inspired dance routine. Meanwhile, Year 8 student, Matilda Bishop, was named second runner-up for her stellar vocal and piano performance. The line-up was completed by finalists: Jess Killen (Year 12), a vocal artist; and Nathan, Robert (Year 11), and Tristan (Year 12), of Rock outfit, ‘The G-Strings’. Guest performances included: a superhero-inspired dance routine by Year 12 Captains, Fletcher Hood Withey and Elli Harford, and Vice Captains, Caitlyn Marks and Nathan Teale; a duet by Springfield students, Nicole Spencer-Scarr and Aiswarya Abraham (Year 12); a comical song-and-dance routine by senior boarder boys; and an appearance by an anonymous outfit of teachers, who donned glow-sticks and braved a pitch black stage to perform a colourful dance. Comic duo, Christopher Gilmore and

Nifemi Olasheni-Akib (Year 12) emceed the evening. Winner, Maddie, is no stranger to the SPYGT audition panel. After auditioning as a Year 7 student in 2016, and missing out on a finalist spot, she reapplied this year at the insistence of friends. “I love singing and performing,” Maddie explains. “I was at Ironbark when the call for auditionees went out, and my friends encouraged me to apply. I was in the mood for trying new things, so I signed up.” She says she chose to perform Alessia Cara’s song, ‘Scars To Your Beautiful’, because its message resonated with her. “It’s about how everybody is different and beautiful in their own ways,” Maddie explains, “And if people don’t like others for that, then the world needs to change, rather than the individuals changing.” The humble songstress, who has limited formal vocal training, says she never expected to place, let alone win, the event, which has been dominated by performers from the Senior School in previous years. “I was so excited just to get into the Finals,” Maddie tells. “So, when I won, I was shocked, but so excited and happy.” She has pledged her winnings – $1,700 of the funds raised by ticket sales – to the Stroke Foundation, a national charity that partners with the community to prevent, treat and beat stroke.

“I WAS AT IRONBARK WHEN THE CALL FOR AUDITIONEES WENT OUT, AND MY FRIENDS ENCOURAGED ME TO APPLY. I WAS IN THE MOOD FOR TRYING NEW THINGS, SO I SIGNED UP.” – Maddie Rushmore (Year 9), winner of SPYGT 2018 “I was so happy I could donate that money to the Stroke Foundation because, earlier this year, my mum had a stroke,” Maddie reveals. “I want to support the Stroke Foundation so that it can find out what causes strokes, and how we can prevent them.” Looking ahead, Maddie says she hopes to continue to indulge her passion for music by re-starting singing lessons, which she dabbled in briefly earlier this year. She offers this advice to students who are considering auditioning for SPYGT in future years: “Just do it,” Maddie urges. “Don’t overthink it. No matter how good or bad the act is, the audience at SPYGT is always super supportive. You’ll have so much fun on stage. It’s a really awesome experience.”

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Mandopop Princess

Looking at the academic record of Old Scholar, Wendy Chen (2010), one would never guess at her secret passion for music. In her senior years of school at St Peters Indooroopilly, Wendy studied English, Chinese, Mathematics A, Economics, Multi-Strand Science, and Film, Television & New Media. But in 2009, despite lacking formal music training, the Year 11 student took her first step on the path to becoming a Mandopop artist, entering a singing competition hosted by Hong Kong television network, Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), and forging a valuable network of musician friends from around the world. Since then, Wendy has continued to put one foot in front of the other on her journey to becoming a professional singer. In June, she reached the pinnacle of her career 10

to date, releasing her single, ‘Peace’ – the 2018 theme song for Japanese soft drink, ‘Calpis’ – on iTunes. Born in Taiwan, Wendy and her family moved to Brisbane in 2002, when Wendy was eight years old. “My parents really appreciated Australia’s culture, environment, and education. They wanted me to have more freedom and choice growing up,” Wendy explains. “At the time, my parents’ occupations were eligible for skilled immigration. When a relatives’ next-door neighbour put their house up for

sale, they bought it and we moved to Brisbane.” Wendy says she’s always been interested in her Taiwanese heritage. “Growing up in Australia, I’ve always been curious about the culture of the country in which my parents grew up,” Wendy explains. “We used to visit my grandparents and friends in Taiwan every summer, and that kept me interested and in touch with Taiwan’s popular culture.” In 2006, Wendy joined St Peters as a Year 8 student. She says, thanks to the schools’ multicultural community, which put her in touch with a network of Mandarinspeaking peers, her interest in Asian popular culture grew.

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“During my time at St Peters, I met many students who were from Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia and Singapore. For the first time [since moving to Australia], I was able to speak Mandarin with people my own age. I started finding out more about Mandarin music, movies, and [television] dramas.” As a Year 11 student in 2009, Wendy was a finalist in Hong Kong’s ‘TVB International Chinese New Talent Singing Competition’. When she returned to Brisbane, she began performing publicly at local venues. However, it wasn’t until university that she caught the attention of music producers in Taiwan, when the first song cover she uploaded to YouTube went viral. Upon completion of her course – a Bachelor of Film & Screen Media Production at Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art, she returned to Taiwan to meet with local music producers. “I went for a few recording sessions,” Wendy recounts. “After two months of exploring options, I went back to Brisbane, packed up my room, bought a one-way ticket, rented a place in Taipei, and signed with my current label.” In July, Wendy released her EP, titled ‘Peace’ in homage to the theme song she wrote, recorded, and released in June to promote Japanese soft drink, Calpis. She says being approached by Calpis Co Ltd to write and produce the jingle was a great privilege.

In spite of the success of her single, which reached Number 7 on radio charts, and her EP, which reached Number 4 on the charts of Taipei’s biggest music retailer, Wendy remains humble: “A couple of days ago, my friend sent me a photo from Taipei’s biggest CD store, where my EP was Number 4 on the Charts. I asked her if she had placed it there, or if it was for real?!” Wendy says she’s grateful for the opportunity she has to do what she loves every day, and to enjoy a flexible lifestyle. “I work from cafes, my bathroom or kitchen floor, rooftops, dance studios, hotel rooms, or in the car,” Wendy tells. “I get to decide where and how I work, as long as I’m pushing myself and producing work.” She says she also loves meeting new people, and discovering new places. “In 2017, my label organised for me to start performing at concerts and TV shows, and to shoot music videos in Malaysia, China, and Thailand,” Wendy explains. “In March, we visited 14 cities and performed in theatres around China. I like that I get to work with people from all sectors – writers, producers, musicians, hosts, and dancers.” While professional singing has its upsides, Wendy is frank about its challenges. She says the realities of financial instability, media scrutiny, and the transient nature of the industry, demand a lot of patience.

“It’s fresh, energetic, positive, and sweet,” Wendy says of the single. She’s also quick to point out that “The lyrics are about celebrating there are no ‘right’ answers – a varsity. The message is that every reality that can be both empowering person is special in their own way. and disorienting. It encourages people to set no limits – to explore and discover what they are “Being an Arts career, what is ‘right’ is subjective,” Wendy explains. capable of.” “There is no end destination, and you never know how far you are from your goal.”

She says there is also pressure to uphold widely accepted aesthetic ‘norms’. “In Asia, there is a standard to be lean. During a promotional period, I eat two meals a day: a salad and soup for lunch, and boiled vegetables for dinner – no desserts,” Wendy says. “I never used to care about skincare, but now I save up and have facials regularly. It sounds a little superficial, but it’s all part of the industry, especially for female artists.” By and large though, Wendy says the positives outweigh the negatives. She says she’s grateful for her St Peters education, which gave her the confidence to express her ideas, and says she was happy she could give back to the school throughout university, when she worked as a casual after-hours Mac Lab Supervisor. “I think the variety of extra-curricular opportunities and the multicultural environment at St Peters has helped me to be open-minded, adaptable, and able to work in teams,” Wendy explains. “I find myself able to mingle and work with people from all kinds of backgrounds, which is really important for my job.” She has this advice for students who want to pursue a career in the music industry: “Keep building your craft, and stay true to who you are,” Wendy urges. “Be proactive and get your work out there. Try to find people who click with you. And always appreciate your team, because it takes a whole team to build an artist.” To follow Wendy’s journey, visit her Instagram: www.instagram.com/chendywen/

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Writing the Future

On Friday 27 July, as I photographed Year 6 students for this story, I couldn’t resist pausing to peer over their shoulders as they worked on iPads. Onscreen, narratives were being typed; graphics were being created; and audio was being manipulated, in a variety of apps. The collateral was for a unit called ‘Museum of Migration’, which requires students to research, document, and present, the experiences of a post-federation migrant to Australia. In past years, students have presented their findings for the unit (formerly known as ‘Stories of Migration’) as an essay, however, this year, thanks to a new Primary English Teachers Association Australia (PETAA) grant called, ‘Writing the Future’, students were tasked with presenting their projects as virtual museums in St Peters’ Learning Management Software (LMS), Firefly. Christina Wheeler, Primary Years Teacher Librarian, loves to share her passion for writing with students. She found out about the Writing the Future grant through a PETAA newsletter forwarded to her by friend and colleague, Renata Rankin, an Exceptional Learners Teacher. The initiative challenged participating schools to develop a unit that helped teach the ‘art and craft of writing’. The only proviso was that students document their work on a digital platform.

“I dug into the Year 6 Curriculum,” Christina explains. “We research Stories of Migration in Year 6, so I thought: Could we develop the unit to encompass research and writing in a more creative and engaging way?”

“IN THE FUTURE, OUR CHILDREN WILL BE COMMUNICATING IN A BROADER RANGE OF MODES, HOWEVER, THEY WILL STILL NEED TO MASTER THE ‘NUTS AND BOLTS’ OF WRITING.”

Christina’s proposal, to transform the existing Stories of Migration unit by swapping out essay-writing for fact-based storytelling in the form of: graphic postcards and letters; photos and captions; audio narration; and video clips, and presented in an – Christina Wheeler, Primary Years interactive online showcase, was Teacher Librarian accepted by PETAA. Christina says, while the Thanks to Christina’s successful opportunity for students to work proposal, St Peters Indooroopilly with a published author was one was one of only four schools across of the things that motivated her Australia that received the grant, to apply for the grant, its digital which paired students with an author criterion has proven her favourite for three days of mentoring, and part of the project. She enlisted the provided $500 for materials and help of Rachael Yates and Jonathan resources. Furthermore, the PETAA Nalder, Digital Learning Coach, to selected St Peters Indooroopilly help students master apps as varied as a showcase school, and will fly as: design editor, ‘Canva’; photo Christina, alongside one of her editor, ‘Photofox’; video editor, collaborators, Rachael Yates, P-6 ‘iMovie’; and in-image interaction E-Learning Facilitator, to Canberra tool, ‘Thinglink’, to create diverse for its Professional Learning interactive collateral, which they Intensive and Showcase in October assembled in Firefly, to tell the story to share student outcomes. of a migrant. The day of my visit to Year 6 “Personally, I’ve found the project classrooms was one of three really engaging,” Christina says. “It’s opportunities students had to fostered professional collaboration consult with visiting author, between like-minded people with Deborah Abela. Her book, ‘Teresa: different areas of expertise. It’s been A New Australian’, is part of a series extremely rewarding to have such a of books about children who migrate substantial project to get my teeth to Australia, making Deborah into with my colleagues. We’ve a perfect fit for the Museum of gotten as much out of the project as Migration unit. the students.”

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*Pictured: In Term 3, Year 6 students had the opportunity to get feedback from author, Deborah Abela, for their story about a migrant. They used a variety of apps to translate their story into digital collateral, which they curated in a virtual museum.

But the unit hasn’t just promoted collaboration between staff and across departments. In an effort to provide one-on-one app and Firefly training to as many students as possible, Rachael and Jonathan recruited Year 6 students who, after receiving training in digital applications and coaching techniques, trained their peers in turn. “What I like most about it is that the students have been really involved,” Jonathan explains. “Alongside Rachael Yates, I helped coordinate a group of students as IT helpers. The students had to present their project in Firefly, and while they already know their way around Firefly, I wanted to equip them with skills so that when they built their virtual museum, they could produce something really good.” Year 6 student, James Logan, interviewed his British migrant father, Peter, for the unit. James says,

while he enjoyed exploring new apps, like Thinglink and Photofox, which he used to create interactive graphics to complement audio clips, he most appreciated the opportunity to find out more about his family history. “There were many things I already knew about my dad, but the most interesting thing was learning about the reasons he came to Australia, other than that his wife wanted to come back because that’s where her parents were,” explains James. Classmate, Lily Johnston, agrees that the highlight of the unit was learning about migrant stories. She found the story of Frederick Mayer, an Australian migrant from Budapest in Hungary, online. “I learned a lot about people’s stories: what it took for them to get to safety, and what they’ve done to survive or try to live a happy life,” Lily explains. Christina says, above all, she hopes the unit has fostered curiosity in students, and equipped them

with the knowledge and skills to share their ideas in an increasingly digital age. “In the future, our children will be communicating in a broader range of modes, however, they will still need to master the ‘nuts and bolts’ of writing, regardless of how they end up communicating,” Christina explains. “We’ve tried to merge transferable communication skills with futuristic platforms.” “I hope our students enjoy that process of curiosity – of wondering and wanting to know more – and enjoy sharing their understanding with other people in creative ways.” Christina and Rachael will share student outcomes from the Museum of Migration unit at the PETAA’s Professional Learning Intensive and Showcase at the University of Canberra from 19-20 October.

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School Social Graces ST PETERS SPR INGFIELD STUDENTS PA RTICIPATE IN ETIQUETTE PROGR A M

On Friday 7 September, Year 12 students at St Peters Springfield participated in an Etiquette program to prepare them for their Senior Formal.

parents, and teachers with aplomb; the art of a flattering portrait; good table manners; respectful use of mobile phones; and sincere expressions of gratitude to event organisers at the end of the evening.

Administered by Elizabeth Wilson from the School of Deportment and Grooming, students learned about the importance of: accepting or declining partner invitations graciously; selecting comfortable formal attire; introducing partners,

Years 11 and 12 students at St Peters Springfield have benefitted from etiquette instruction since 2016, when Founding Principal, Jill Lange-Mohr, recognised the increasing pressure on young people to present themselves in public forums.

Dr Michelle Thygesen, a Year 11 Pastoral Care Teacher at St Peters Springfield, says she hopes the school-facilitated Etiquette sessions will continue to equip students with the confidence to meet any social challenge. “We hope that our students will be able to conduct themselves with confidence into the future,” Michelle says, “no matter what social context they encounter.”

TOP TIPS FOR THE RED CARPET, FRONT DOOR, AND DINNER TABLE

Take the Lead to Introduce Partners, Parents, and Teachers Elizabeth says it’s customary for the person who knows both parties to take care of the introductions and, as a rule, an older person should be introduced to a younger person. For example, “Person X, I would like to introduce Person Y.”

Send the Right Signals with Your Cutlery Elizabeth warns students to avoid crossing their cutlery on their dinner plates at all costs. This is a signal that you have not enjoyed the meal. Instead, if you are still eating your meal, allow your cutlery to remain turned into the plate without crossing over and, if you are finished your meal, bring your cutlery together and rest in the centre of the plate.

Practise your Hollywood Pose Elizabeth encourages students to practise the Hollywood Pose on their School Formal’s rep carpet. The pose relies on good posture and a one-foot-forward approach. Complete the look by placing a hand on one hip.

Winners Announced!

Congratulations to the winners of the Plus Ultra Short Story Competition! Years 5-8 Category

Stevie Chiu Year 8

and

Years 9-12 Category

Ellie Dorloff & Hailey Graham Year 10

The short stories written by Stevie, Ellie and Hailey were judged most creative and satisfied the competition criteria to include ‘The whistle blew’ as the first sentence. Read their stories on the following pages.

Don’t forget – no one else sees the world the way you do, so no one else can tell the stories that you have to tell. – Charles de Lint, Canadian author

Our Judges We thank our judging panel: Kathleen Barker and Kelsey Bricknell, Plus Ultra writers. They loved reading our applicants’ stories!

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Rescue BY STEV IE CHIU, YEA R 8

The whistle blew. And blew, and blew… The bittersweet sound of rescuers graced my ears for the first time in days. Tim and I were so close to safety! But before I could rejoice, blackness engulfed me… It was my lone scientific expedition to an island off the coast of Tahiti. My assignment: find traces of an apparently extinct Swallowtail butterfly. As head scientist, I was in charge of getting either chrysalis samples, or if I was lucky enough, the butterfly itself, back to my crew of field scientists on mainland Tahiti. I was three days into the gruelling hike of Mont Orohena and the humidity of the island was unbearable during November, with incredibly heavy rainfall to top it off. Finally, I reached a promising camp site for my fieldwork. After the laborious journey, I stumbled into my tent and flopped onto the straw mat. After just minutes, rain drops began to dance on the roof and I was hypnotized by its mesmerising rhythm – I soon fell into a deep sleep. The next morning, I awoke to find myself immersed in shallow water. I clambered out of the tent. The monsoon rains from the night had washed away most of the dirt path leading down to the base of the mountain, leaving protruding tree roots and sizeable potholes – my surroundings had completely changed. My walkie-talkie was submerged in the rainwater; totally damaged. That was my only connection to my crew! Now, I had to find my own way back to the mountain’s base and to my boat. Sweat prickled my forehead and my clothes clung to my body. Aimlessly wandering through the dense vegetation, I eyed a crouching figure. “Hello?” I called out. The figure arose. “Hello!” The silhouette waved. I trudged towards the figure. “Are you lost, Miss?” The broad-shouldered man introduced himself as Tim.

“I’m afraid so. So relieved to meet you, Tim. I’m Val.”

I was quickly ushered to my boat, but I was still convinced that Tim was real!

“Me too. I’ve been trying to navigate my way out of this place for ages now.”

“Val, you’ve been trapped here for days and are seriously dehydrated. This can cause vivid hallucinations. There was no one else on this island, but you.” The local doctor patiently explained. As I slowly sipped the water that they brought to me, I began to understand what the doctor had said. Now everything was making sense.

“Well, shall we walk together?” He agreed and off we went. We meandered for what seemed like hours and stopped between two aito trees with an intricate spider’s web. I’d seen this before and this meant we were wandering in circles! I shuddered as it occurred to me that we might never make it out alive. But Tim and I persisted to traipse through the heavy foliage. As I scuffed my boots against a tree trunk, I noticed a crystallised ovoid no larger than my index finger. I recognised it at once – it was the chrysalis of the Swallowtail butterfly! I felt a glimmer of hope. If I was lucky enough to find something apparently extinct, then maybe – just maybe – we’d be able to find our way back to my boat. I tenderly placed the chrysalis into a Petri dish and we journeyed on. Night fell abruptly upon us and we trembled with tiredness. I gazed at the blinding darkness of the night and spotted the constellation Centaurus – a half man and half horse. Although we were not any closer to locating my boat, Tim’s presence was comforting. With that thought, I succumbed to sleep, wishing that we’d soon discover our way out. ◆◆◆ The whistle blew. And blew, and blew… The bittersweet sound of rescuers graced my ears for the first time in days. Tim and I were so close to safety! But before I could rejoice, blackness engulfed me… “Val, Val!” The calls were distorted. The ground gripped my shoulders; I jerked upright, panting heavily. Familiar faces stared back at me – my crew and the local doctor. I was in safe hands. Then I remembered: Tim! I looked around frantically. “Wait, where’s Tim?” “Who? We found you unconscious on the ground here – nobody else was around. We need to leave now otherwise we’ll be trapped. More monsoon rain is predicted.”

As we moved further and further away from the shore, I glanced back at the island. I froze. I didn’t even dare to blink as I saw a shadowy figure lurking in the trees. It seemed to be waving at us – at me. Was it – could it have been Tim? My blood chilled. I blinked. And when I open my eyes, I am right back in the middle of the island. Alone. Afraid. Lost…

The Follower BY ELLIE DOR LOFF A ND H AILEY GR A H A M, YEA R 10

The whistle blew. The Follower labelled N9M’s eyes flew open. The whistle blew again and N9M stood up from his pallet, as did every other Follower in Room 9. The third whistle resonated around the room, and the Followers all turned towards the whistle-blowers, figures in dark green cloaks. As N9M heard the whistle again, he saluted to the Cloaks, then proceeded to march behind M9M out of the room. ◆◆◆ The clicking of sewing machines resounded throughout the Sewing Room as N9M directed his own needlepoint down the hem of a cloak. The coarse material was a dark, brooding green against the dull grey iron table. Suddenly the machine jerked sideways. “No!” N9M hissed. The stitch was now lopsided; N9M had to fix it before the Cloaks realised. He tore the thread out in frustration. The Cloak’s whistle shrieked in his ears. Drat! N9M flinched as a leathergloved hand gripped his shoulder. The whistle pierced his ear – a warning not to step out of line again. N9M felt the iron grip loosen as the whistle blew again, signalling the end of the sewing

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shift. As N9M joined the Followers filing out of the Sewing Room for the midday-meal, heart pounding, he could feel the cold eyes of the Cloaks boring into him from behind. N9M took his tray of gruel to the back of the courtyard, right to the bench against the wall – the wall that surrounded all of the factory, a reminder of the Cloaks’ power. Most Followers avoided the wall, huddling in small groups in the centre of the dirt-grey courtyard, but N9M approached it. Every midday-meal, he would spread his fingers across the rough brick until he felt a smooth plane, pressing his ear against it. Today he was rewarded with the faintest melodic sound – a bird-cry? Maybe the chitter of laughter? N9M pressed his ear harder, trying to hear more of the delightful noise, but it was suddenly gone. Perhaps he had imagined it? Suddenly, a tap on his shoulder disturbed him from his reverie. He turned to see another Follower with a perplexed expression. “Why do you put your head against the wall? The Cloaks haven’t told you to, have they?” she asked. “Maybe I’m leaning against it in the hope that I can push it over and escape”, N9M answered, half irritably. He kept his hand on the smooth plane. But she looked at him with awe and horror. “You’d leave? If you could?” “Wouldn’t you?” She shrugged, puzzling over his words. “The Cloaks give us food, shelter. I’d stay here.” Where it’s safe. It wasn’t said, but implied; where it’s familiar. He suddenly noticed her gruel tray was empty. “You’ve eaten it already,” he said. “I get hungry.” N9M examined her, realising just how young she was. He silently picked up his untouched gruel-tray and scraped his ration onto her plate. She stared at N9M for a few seconds, as if trying to discern an ulterior motive behind the act, but then nodded as she began to eat. “Thank you…” She paused as she read the ‘N9M’ tattooed on his arm, “NYM”. Before she could realise she’d read it

incorrectly, he answered her, reading her identification tattoo. “You’re welcome, P11F.” He smiled to himself as she wolfed down his ration. NYM. Almost like a name. The whistle sounded; although N9M had been about to speak, his mouth was forced shut as the whistle compelled him back to the factory. Back to work. ◆◆◆ N9M was awoken by the pain. Firm fingers clenched on his arm – fingers clad in leather. Fear clung to N9M as he squinted in the darkness; he realised it was one of the Cloaks, dragging him up and towards the door. “Um... excuse… excuse me. No! Stop! Where are you taking me?” No response. Just the rhythmic beat of the Cloak’s footsteps along the floor. N9M did not struggle. The grip never released from his arm, holding so firmly N9M could feel bruises forming. “Help! Please someone HELP!” But not one of the sleeping Followers faltered in their rhythmic breathing as N9M passed them. Not until they were out through the door did rows of heads begin to stir as N9M’s yells filled the room. N9M stumbled, forced to follow the Cloak’s path. As it dragged N9M through the corridors and out into the courtyard, the Cloak cleared its throat, its voice rusty from never being used. “Male N of Room 9. Failure to complete sewing task. Disregard of food given by Cloaks. Conspiring of escape plan. You will be punished.” Terror and outrage clashed through N9M’s body, powering him with adrenaline. “Punished? How?” The Cloak kept moving. Suddenly N9M made a decision. For the first time in his existence, he defied a Cloak. He struggled, twisting somehow out of its iron grip.

to some sort of climbable surface. As he scraped his hands along it, oblivious to the cuts developing, he felt the smooth plane he’d found before by touch – and realised – it was a door. N9M pushed as hard as he could against it and was sucked into darkness until he made his way into the cool light of the silver moon above. It’s… NYM thought to himself … beautiful? But that didn’t even begin to describe it. Fields of lush grass lathered the ground. Rivers licked the soil so that it was rich and healthy. The early dew simmered under the moon’s light. NYM fell to the ground in amazement – even the ground felt like a pillow. He could stay here… could he stay here? Maybe NYM could find a way to live outside of the factory. NYM closed his eyes, at peace. ◆◆◆ The whistle blew. NYM’s eyes flew open as the sound like a steaming kettle crept into his psyche. The whistle. Another shrill note floated onto the plains; so faint, NYM thought he might have imagined it, but NYM stood up from the ground, unable to restrain himself. No! No longer would it be his leader. He would not be a Follower of the whistle. He did not hear the third whistle, but he knew it had sung out, ordering him back. Looking around him, the view sung to his soul – but he heard the whistle blow once more; it beckoned, cajoled him back. The whistle! It compelled him, consuming him. NYM snapped to attention, facing the direction of the commanding whistle. NYM placed one foot towards the whistle. Already he felt steadier. Faster. He placed one foot in front of the other. Quickly… He turned around to glance one final time at the beauty before him. NYM tried to turn back, but his feet could only move towards the whistle’s sound. NYM should have turned back. All he could think about, all he could hear was the whistle. The whistle would guide N9M home. Home, where he would be punished. Home where the Cloaks were. But it was home.

You’d leave? If you could? N9M sprinted to the wall, laying his hands on its surface once more. He ran along it, hoping desperately he’d come

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Digging up the Past

When Old Scholars, Sarah Stimpson and Ivie Vallance, graduated from St Peters in 2015, they both set off down two different paths. Sarah enrolled in a Bachelor of Journalism/Bachelor of Laws degree, while Ivie enrolled in a Bachelor of Psychology/Bachelor of Justice and returned to the College to coach QGSSSA Touch part time. Despite their differences and, perhaps, enabled by the fact they both studied at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), the girls stayed in contact. This year, they came across an organisation called Projects Abroad — a discovery which would, ultimately, strengthen their friendship ties!

“WE WERE BOTH INTERESTED IN ARCHAEOLOGY. WE THOROUGHLY ENJOYED HISTORY AT SCHOOL WITH MR ROBERT MCROBERTS.”

Projects Abroad is the world’s leading international volunteering organisation. With their headquarters in the UK, they have offices and projects in more than 50 countries, worldwide, and offer the widest range of volunteer projects and locations around. Sarah and Ivie found Projects Abroad online. Each keen to embark on

Over the mid-year semester break, they set off to join four other volunteers and three archaeologists on two separate sites. They worked hard and it all paid off. Plus Ultra caught up with them afterwards to find out just what they uncovered when digging up the past.

a unique travel experience, they scrolled through the projects and found the perfect fit. “We were both interested in archaeology, even though we don’t study it a university,” Sarah told Plus Ultra. “We thoroughly enjoyed history at school with Mr Robert McRoberts.” Sarah and Ivie signed up to assist on an archaeological dig in Romania.

– Sarah Stimpson (2015), Projects Abroad volunteer

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visit to Romania to take part in an archaeological dig isn’t your typical mid-semester holiday — tell us a bit about your trip and why you decided to go.

graves — one house on the same block of land actually had 14 human remains pre-construction!

o, what did you find?

Right at the beginning of the In Romania, before any construction dig, we found a piece of painted is undertaken on land (both private pottery which was obviously not as and public), archaeologists are old as the other shards that had been required to dig to ensure that found. We showed it to one of the there are no artefacts or important archaeologists and she said it was historical landmarks underfoot. a piece of modern pottery. She told The number of archaeologists in the us to throw it away because it was country is limited and they often rely probably only from the 17th Century. on volunteers to complete the work. We weren’t really sure what to expect, There was a pipe running through and we definitely didn’t expect the our site, so the archaeologists had work to be as physically challenging told us it was unlikely that we would as it was, but it was definitely a lot of find anything. This was because fun and very rewarding. the soil would have already been disturbed. Despite that, we found “WE FOUND A a tooth and a human skull! It was TOOTH AND A pretty amazing and made all of HUMAN SKULL! our efforts worth it. Just before IT WAS PRETTY we left, we thought we’d found a second human skull, but when the AMAZING AND anthropologist examined it, we MADE ALL OF found out it was just a cow skull. OUR EFFORTS Still, the first skull and the tooth WORTH IT.” were really exciting!

hat did you hope to find over there?

We were both hoping to find human remains, but we had heard that other volunteers had worked on the same project as us and not found anything. Still, many excavations had been undertaken along the same road and they had uncovered multiple mass

“WE’RE BOTH INTERESTED IN DOING MORE VOLUNTEERING. THERE IS ANOTHER ARCHAEOLOGY PROJECT IN PERU WHICH WE MAY UNDERTAKE IN THE FUTURE.”

hat’s next for the two of you… any more digs in the future?

We’re both interested in doing more volunteering. There is another archaeology project in Peru which we may undertake in the future. We really enjoyed working with the group of archaeologists from Projects Abroad during our time in Romania. There is so much more of the country that we would love to see, so we’re keen to go back there too.

here will your findings be stored?

They’ll be stored at the University of Alba Iulia until they can be examined properly by the anthropologist. This may take several years as she’s the only anthropologist in the area and is only now examining remains from 2011. 19

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Geckoes Wildlife Incursion BY YEA R 5 TEACHERS

During the unit, ‘Sharing the Planet’, Year 5 students at St Peters Indooroopilly participated in a variety of activities that developed and deepened their understanding of the central idea that: ‘organisms adapt to their environment to survive.’ On Friday 10 August, the team at Geckoes Wildlife, who provide tactile wildlife experiences for children at schools and birthday parties, visited Year 5 classrooms to share their expert knowledge about how Australian animals have adapted to survive and thrive. Students were able to touch the animals to see how they behaved and moved. A wide variety of animals were available for students to observe, including: a stick insect; a green tree frog; a pig-nosed turtle; several species of lizard; a python; a squirrel glider; a tawny frogmouth bird; and even a baby crocodile named ‘Stumpy’! To find out more about Geckoes Wildlife, visit www.geckoeswildlife.com.au

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Craig Schmidt Appointed Principal of St Peters Springfield

In September, Tim Kotzur, Head of College, announced the appointment of Craig Schmidt as Principal of St Peters Springfield.

“Here, students and staff from Prep to Year 12 know each other, and can enjoy that total interaction across the whole school community.”

“EVERYONE CAN SAY THEY HAVE A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AT THEIR SCHOOL, BUT THERE IS SOMETHING SPECIAL HERE THAT SETS OUR COMMUNITY APART.”

“Just this morning, I was sitting with our Prep students at their Chapel Craig is well known to the St Peters Springfield community. For six years, service, and moments before I was shaking hands with our Year 12 he has served as Deputy Principal students as they walked past, and Head of Secondary School, and arriving for the day for their exams. has served as Acting Principal since Everyone can say they have a sense of the departure of Founding Principal, – Craig Schmidt, Principal of St Peters community at their school, but there Jill Lange-Mohr, in July. Springfield. is something special here that sets Prior to joining St Peters Springfield our community apart.” and staff to not only strive for in 2012, Craig enjoyed a number of excellence in all that they do in their Craig says, while it’s the students leadership roles in independent and physical life (ever higher), but to who get him out of bed every state schools alike, including: Head also endeavour to understand and morning to come to school, he of Campus and Head of Secondary at develop their spiritual identity and also enjoys working alongside an Calvary Christian College; Deputy purpose (more beyond). exceptional St Peters Springfield Principal at Mabel Park State High staff, and he looks forward to closer School; and Deputy Principal at “From my point of view, I’d like to collaboration as they work towards a Blackwater State High School. focus on: What’s the more beyond shared vision for the future. St Peters for our students? What Craig’s passion for the St Peters “I love the team I’m working with and does life look like when they finish Springfield community, and his school? And how are we preparing I love what we’re trying to achieve,” excitement about his appointment them to be well equipped to Craig says. “As Principal, I have the as Principal, is apparent. He says understand their identity; to develop capacity to lead that team wherever journeying with students, parents, the gifts and talents they have; to we want to go and towards whatever and staff throughout their St Peters serve in community; and to live we want to achieve. I really enjoy Springfield experience has and fulfilled lives as extraordinary young the opportunity and the privilege to continues to be a privilege and a men and women?” do that.” great joy. “St Peters Springfield is a very special community,” Craig explains.

Craig says his leadership philosophy takes inspiration from St Peters’ school motto, ‘Plus Ultra’ (ever higher or more beyond). He urges students

Plus Ultra / Staff

“Academics are important, but what sort of people they are going to be is fundamental,” Craig explains. “The formation of our young people is very important to me.” With qualifications as diverse as: a Bachelor of Human Movement Studies (Education) with a Mathematics major from the University of Queensland (UQ ); a Graduate Certificate in Theology from Australian Lutheran College (ALC); and a Master of Education from Morling College, Craig’s commitment to personal excellence is clear. However, he’s quick to point out that there is always more to learn. This year, Craig graduated with Distinction from the University of Southern Queensland with a Master of Business Administration (MBA). “As a Principal in a Lutheran school, there are three key interacting

elements of leadership: education, theology, and business. The gap for me was the business side of things”, Craig tells. He says, while juggling the accelerated 18-month course with the responsibilities of his former roles and the pressures of his pending job application was challenging, he hopes it will stand him in good stead to lead St Peters Springfield into a bright future. He says he’s grateful to those responsible for appointing him to the role, and to the greater St Peters community that has supported him. “I’m very grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to be Acting Principal and for the tremendous and generous support of the St Peters community,” Craig says. “It’s exciting now to be able to move forward with certainty and confidence.”

*Pictured: In September, Craig Schmidt, former Deputy Principal and Head of Secondary School, was appointed to the role of Principal at St Peters Springfield.

“I’M VERY GRATEFUL FOR THE TREMENDOUS AND GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE ST PETERS COMMUNITY. IT’S EXCITING NOW TO BE ABLE TO MOVE FORWARD WITH CERTAINTY AND CONFIDENCE.” To find out more about Craig, refer to the article, ‘Meet Craig Schmidt’, on page 18 of the October 2017 issue of Plus Ultra magazine.

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Our Sister Across the Sea ST PETERS SPR INGFIELD A ND SH A RON LUTHER A N SCHOOL

In 2014, Jill Lange-Mohr, Founding Principal of St Peters Springfield, arrived on the doorstep of Sharon Lutheran School in Hong Kong. She was struck by the ironic architectural similarities between Sharon Lutheran School and St Peters Springfield – both multiple stories high with colour-coded levels and a single cross fixed to external rendered walls. Jill had travelled to Hong Kong at the behest of the Australian Curriculum (AC), for which ‘Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia’ is a major cross-cultural priority. The AC website reads: By knowing something of Asian societies, cultures, beliefs and environments, [students] will deepen their intercultural understanding, enrich their own lives, and increase the likelihood of successful participation in the ‘Asian century’. To this end, Jill had been determined to find a sister school for St Peters Springfield in Asia, and, arriving on the threshold of the rainbowcoloured Sharon Lutheran School building in Kowloon – Hong Kong’s shopping, arts, and entertainment district – she knew she had found it. The relationship between the two schools has been consolidated through regular engagement between Year 5 students who, since 2015, have swapped information about their countries, cultures, traditions, celebrations, games, toys, and foods, via Skype. However, this year, students at St Peters Springfield came face to face with their brothers and sisters from across the sea for the very first time, thanks to the commencement of

the St Peters Springfield and Sharon Lutheran School Exchange Program. Susan Levitt, Year 5 Teacher at St Peters Springfield, helped plan the seven-day itinerary for students and two teachers of Sharon Lutheran School, who travelled to Brisbane in Term 2. They had the opportunity to spend time in classrooms at St Peters Springfield and Indooroopilly, and to engage in tourist activities, including: tours of Brisbane via bus and ferry; a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; and a night at the Gold Coast. Susan says, for many of the visiting students, participating in the Years 4-12 Interhouse Sports Carnival at St Peters Springfield was a highlight. “It was fantastic that they were able to join in the Interhouse Sports Carnival, because they don’t have sports events like that at their school,” Susan explains. “For a lot of these students, it was the first time that they ran in running races, or did high jump or long jump. It was wonderful.”

“They went to national parks, had picnics, went into Brisbane city, and saw the Brisbane river.” Noticing how fascinated visiting students were by Australian cuisine, billet families even organised blind taste-testing of classic Australian foods, such as lamingtons and Vegemite, for their guests. “Vegemite was totally unpopular,” Susan smiles. Year 4 student, Ariya Ghodsi, says his family jumped at the opportunity to host Sharon Lutheran School student, Vincent, in their home. Ariya, an avid crafter, says when he enlisted Vincent’s help to build an air-powered toy car, which Ariya had received for his birthday, their friendship was cemented. “It was getting a bit difficult,” he says of his birthday project. “Then I asked Vincent if he could help me and, from then, we started talking a lot.” He says, while they shared many things in common, he also noticed differences between them. “We both like being active and building things,” Ariya explains. “But other things were different, like I prefer to spend a lot of time outside, while Vincent seems more interested in reading.”

Year 5 student, Annaleise Beahan, also had the opportunity to host Susan says spending time with billet a visiting student, Vicki, in her home. She says Vicki loved playing families from St Peters Springfield also rated highly for visiting students. outdoors on Annaleise’s trampoline and with her two border collie dogs, “The experiences families gave Banjo and Matilda – opportunities them were wonderful,” Susan tells.

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that are few and far between in the urban jungle of Hong Kong. She says a trip to Springloaded, a gymnastics centre in Ipswich, highlighted the differences between their lives in Australia and Hong Kong. “We took her there so she could see what we do in Australia,” Annaleise explains. “In Hong Kong, they don’t have those kinds of places – they have Disneyland instead.” She says, while she enjoyed learning about Hong Kong culture, especially practising simple Cantonese words and trying to use chopsticks, she’s most grateful for the opportunity to make a new friend. “She’s really good at art,” Annaleise explains of Vicki. “We did some drawings together. She drew one of our family and we kept it for the memories. It’s good to know more about another country and make new friends.”

Susan says she hopes the reciprocal exchange program, which will operate on a two-year rotation, will provide an opportunity for students of St Peters Springfield to travel to Hong Kong in 2019. It’s an opportunity Annaleise, who would love to visit Disneyland and explore Sharon Lutheran School, is keen to take up.

*Pictured: (L–R) Annaleise Beahan (Year 5) and Ariya Ghodsi (Year 4) enjoyed hosting students from Sharon Lutheran School in their homes.

Susan says she hopes the relationship between St Peters Springfield and Sharon Lutheran School will continue to enrich students’ lives well into the future.

“I want to see how their school is “I hope it broadens their different to ours,” Annaleise explains. understanding of the world; that “Their school is more colourful – they learn about life in other there is nearly every single colour countries and about other cultural from the rainbow there.” experiences; and that they are able to share their culture with others as As for Ariya, he looks forward well,” Susan says. to entering Year 5 next year and having the opportunity to make new connections via the regular Skype sessions, although he says he still keeps in touch with Vincent via instant messaging apps. “My favourite thing is that I got to talk to someone from another country who I hadn’t met before, experience what it’s like, and make a new friend,” Ariya tells.

In Term 3, the families of eligible St Peters Springfield students were sent a letter regarding expressions of interest in the 2019 Exchange to Hong Kong. For more information, contact Debbie West-McInnes, Head of Primary, in the first instance: d.west-mcinnes@stpeters.qld.edu.au

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Golden Opportunity YEA R 10 STUDENTS R ETUR N TO IRONBA R K

The often quoted American writer of inspirational maxims, William Arthur Ward, wrote: ‘Opportunities are like sunrises. If you wait too long, you miss them.’ In the March/April school holidays, a group of Year 10 students wasted no time in taking up an opportunity to return to Ironbark, just 12 months shy of their inaugural 5-week experience in Year 9. Julia Baird, Tess Mollah, Derryn Nel, Zoe Perkovic, Felicity Powrie, Olive Spears, Molly Staley, Lara Stimpson, Lara Thompson, and Danielle Watt, spent five days reliving their favourite moments: from the adventure of early morning runs; twice-daily farm chores; and hikes to Cronins; to the routine of domestic life in the kitchen and dorm. The girls credit the adventure to the genius of Molly Staley, who negotiated the visit with Matt Sullivan, Director of Ironbark. Julia Baird says it’s an experience she spent the whole of Term 1, 2018 looking forward to. “My Ironbark experience is something I’ll probably still be talking about in 20 years,” Julia explains of her first visit to Ironbark as a Year 9 student in 2017. “I had super high expectations for Ironbark. It was nothing like I had thought, yet was somehow better. Activities like Hike, Survival, and Solo, enabled me to complete things I never thought I could, and become

friends with people I never thought I would.” Julia and Molly, alongside friend, Tess Mollah, all remembered Hike and Solo as their favourite activities in Year 9, and said they enjoyed reliving the physical challenges of Ironbark for a second time around.

“IT WAS AWESOME TO GO BACK AND SEE HOW WE’D GROWN FROM OUR LAST STAY; TO SEE HOW IRONBARK AND THE FOLLOWING YEAR HAD CHANGED US.”

“We were able to do so many amazing things, get out of our comfort zone, – Julia Baird, Year 10 student and test our boundaries,” Molly recalls of her original 5-week stay in The group hopes they can return to 2017. “The experience taught me so Ironbark regularly in the future. much about myself and the people “Ironbark was such a great experience around me.” for all of us,” Tess tells. “It’s so While Molly says she enjoyed new important not to forget it, and to experiences afforded by visiting keep the friendships and memories Ironbark in a different season, we made alive.” such as swimming in the pond Molly says she’s grateful, not only and witnessing the birth of piglets, for the opportunity to return to she is frank about new challenges, Ironbark, but for the privilege of her describing planning and cooking first experience in Year 9, where she their own meals as an ‘interesting’ forged friendships she hopes will experience that they mastered over be lifelong. the days. “Prior to travelling to Ironbark, we had to go to the grocery store and plan our meals for the week without the help of our parents,” Molly explains. “This meant we took a lot of lollies and cookies with us!” For Julia, returning to Ironbark gave her an opportunity to notice just how much she’s changed over the past 12 months. “We were so much more confident and capable to do the farm jobs and cook our own meals,” Julia tells. “It was awesome to go back and see how we’d grown from our last stay; to see how Ironbark and the following year had changed us.”

“Returning to Ironbark reminded me of what a special experience it was,” Molly explains. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. It taught me that people are what make an experience so special.” Opportunities to visit Ironbark are limited. To enquire about availability, contact Matt Sullivan, Director of Ironbark: m.sullivan@stpeters.qld.edu.au

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Netball GIV ING YEA RS 3-12 GIR LS THE FUEL TO FLY

The St Peters Netball program is full of surprises. It’s a windy Thursday afternoon in August when I meet girls in the Open team and their coach, Tracey Bruce, at Harts Road Courts for one of two weekly training sessions. Contrary to my expectations, they take to the court, not with netballs, but with rubber bouncy balls, which they dribble several times on the centre lines before bursting across the thirds and repeating the exercise. Anne-Marie Champion, St Peters Netball Coordinator for Years 7-12 girls, who play in the Queensland Girls Secondary School Sports Association (QGSSSA) competition, credits quality coaches, like Tracey, for reinvigorating the program. She says, while the sport has always enjoyed high participation, the introduction this year of new coaching models that keep training sessions fresh and fun are helping the sport to go from strength to strength.

Open Coach, Tracey, may be a fresh face to students, but she is no stranger to St Peters. The Old Scholar (1986, Foran) made her state debut as a Year 7 student in the 1981 Queensland Primary School Netball team. She went on to enjoy an illustrious school Netball career, and in her honour, St Peters named its Netball trophy the ‘Tracey Bruce Cup’. Since then, she has enjoyed appointments as: Development

Officer, then State Coaching Director, for Netball Queensland; Coach at the Queensland Academy of Sport; and Coach for the Queensland Firebabes. Alongside coaching the St Peters Open Netball team, she coaches the Tier 1 Tigers team for Netball Queensland (QNSL), and is a selector for Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball (QISSN). Year 12 students, Zoe Nano and Jess Jeffrey, are Captains of the 2018 Netball program. They say Tracey, with her penchant for having fun and playing games; comprehensive tactical knowledge; and direct communication style, has helped them to play the most rewarding netball of their lives.

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*Pictured: Senior girls in St Peters’ Open Netball team train twice weekly.

“I really like Tracey’s coaching,” Zoe, a speedy Centre for the Open team, explains. “She changes it up a lot; she’s really hands-on; and she’s very specific to what each player needs, and what each part of the court needs. I really enjoy that.” “I think she knows what we’re all capable of and really pushes us to play our best every week,” teammate Jess, a tall Goal Defence and Keeper, adds. “Her training style is really scenario-based, which benefits us so much, as we often come across times during games when we’ve practised exactly that situation at training.” For Zoe, Jess, and their Open teammates, this fresh approach to training is paying dividends. In July, the team won the Met West region preliminary rounds of the Vicki Wilson Cup, the Years 10-12 division of the Vicki Wilson Championships*, a premier competition for high school girls in Queensland. They are joined by the Year 9 team, who also won the Met West region preliminary rounds of the Years 7-9 division of the competition, called the Vicki Wilson Shield. Their performances have 28

given both teams the opportunity to compete in the finals series weekend in mid-October and be crowned state champions. But Senior players aren’t the only ones benefiting from new and improved coaching initiatives. The St Peters Netball program for Years 3-6 girls is overseen by Peter Dawson, Primary Sport Coordinator. He says, while the program has continued to grow organically since St Peters Primary Years joined the Western Districts Netball Association (WDNA) competition in 2015 (throughout which time participation has increased by 240 percent), the Fuel2Fly Netball Clinic, which St Peters hosted for the first time in the June/July school holidays, has enhanced Junior players’ skills; increased their confidence; and fostered in them an unbridled passion for the sport.

“Laura Geitz, who is a figurehead for the clinic, was a wonderful knowledge-base for the girls to learn from, and not just Netball skills but other life skills too, such as confidence and self-esteem, which result from playing sport.” This year, the rising confidence of Primary players was clear. While the 8, 9, and 10 years age groups enjoyed non-competitive play, St Peters’ competitive 11 and 12 years players enjoyed their best season in the competition yet. Of six 11 and 12 years teams that qualified for semifinals, three 11 years teams qualified for finals, and went on to win premiership titles.

“I see girls who gain so much confidence in the four years that they play Netball,” Peter tells, “and it indirectly prepares them for a number of other sports. The skills that they learn in Netball: the team play; the positional play; “The girls had wonderful exposure to and the passing and catching; the Queensland Firebirds players,” Peter explains of the Fuel2Fly Clinic, directly correlate with Basketball and Touch Football, which they which was developed by Laura Geitz go on to play in the [Years 7-12] and Clare McMeniman, and is QGSSSA competition.” sponsored by Suncorp.

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She says, like any other sport, As Netball Captains, Zoe and Jess Netball is first and foremost a have been doing everything they can wonderful avenue for meeting new to support Junior QGSSSA players girls and forging new friendships. and foster an even stronger Netball community at St Peters: from rallying “I’ve made so many good friends support for Junior and Senior games through Netball,” Zoe explains. from the Boys Basketball program; to “Two years ago on a Netball tour in taking advantage of Feature Rounds Melbourne, I was the only Year 10 (also known as Focus Rounds). The student. Even though the other latter is a new initiative introduced girls are two years older than I am, across all boys and girls sports in I made some of my best friends from Semester 2, and showcases a different that team.” sport to home crowds each weekend. Jess agrees: “I love how supportive “This year, we’re trying hard to the Netball community is. Everyone build more of a community within seems to know everyone else, and are St Peters Netball by watching the always supportive and encouraging younger girls’ games and warming on and off the court. I have made up with them,” Jess explains. “We some of my best friendships through are also partially responsible for Netball, and it makes me enjoy organising things like the end of playing it so much more.” season Breakup; the Focus Round; and a boys versus girls Netball game.” They encourage girls who haven’t played the sport before to give it a try. Zoe says, above all, she just wants the girls around her to continue to enjoy “It’s a scary sport, I’ll give you the sport. that. There are so many rules,” Zoe empathises. “But just have a go. “I just really want the girls to have Don’t worry about the rules – people fun, get involved, and enjoy Netball,” will forgive you.” Zoe explains.

*Pictured: Primary girls at the Fuel2Fly Netball Clinic in the June/July school holidays.

“I would definitely tell anyone who wanted to play Netball that it’s worth a try,” Jess says. “It incorporates skills from so many other sports, like speed; agility; and hand-eye coordination.” “It is so rewarding as a sport, because you can make major improvements so quickly. It’s also really good at a social level because, while it may seem difficult because it has so many rules, it’s actually so easy to pick up.” *At the time of writing, results from the preliminary rounds of the Vicki Wilson Championships, which were finalised in mid-October, were unavailable. For results, refer to the Girls Sport bulletins in St Peters’ online weekly newsletter, ‘The Rock’. To find out more about the St Peters Netball program, contact Shaun Nodwell, Director of Sport, in the first instance: s.nodwell@stpeters.qld.edu.au

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VAPAR

On Saturday 18 August, St Peters Indooroopilly students of Visual Art, Drama, Film & Media, Fashion, and Music, presented the 2018 Visual Art and Performing Arts Review (VAPAR) at the Performing Arts Centre. Spectators enjoyed music performed by Rock bands and Jazz ensembles; admired the artistry of Visual Art, Film & Media, and Fashion students; participated in People’s Choice voting for the Capture Photography Competition; and took in a dramatic performance of Japanese folktale, ‘The Crane Wife’. The fable tells the story of a crane who returns a favour to an impoverished man. Disguising herself as a woman, whom he falls in love with and marries, the crane sacrifices her feathers to create beautiful tapestries for her husband to sell at market. However, when her husband’s curiosity and greed lead him to betray her, she flies away. Year 12 Drama student, Kylie Wilkins, drew on her training in Classical Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz dance, and her knowledge of Physical Theatre, to choreograph routines for the production, in which she also performed. She took inspiration from prescribed music, such as Coldplay’s, ‘Birds’, to craft simple choreography for the cast. “One of the scenes I helped to choreograph, ‘The Bird Dance’, introduced the cranes onstage,” Kylie explains. “So, I helped choreograph bird-like movements. Because I have done traditional ballets, like ‘Swan Lake’, I could incorporate that.” 30

“MY TIME AT ST PETERS, ESPECIALLY STUDYING DRAMA, HAS HELPED WITH MY CONFIDENCE SO MUCH.”

“However, not everyone who participated in VAPAR is a ballerina,” Kylie adds. “So I had to make sure the movements were something that – Kylie Wilkins (Year 12), everyone could do.” performer and choreographer for ‘The Crane Wife’ She says the tragic nature of the folktale’s narrative also posed challenges for the cast and crew, and so they decided to adapt its grim ending. “We didn’t want to leave the audience in darkness,” Kylie explains. “So we changed the ending so that the man meets another woman, and has a second chance at love.” Despite its more hopeful story treatment, Kylie credits the success of ‘The Crane Wife’ to its high production values, and use of Physical Theatre, which favours movement over dialogue. “I had two dancer friends who came and watched it, and they really enjoyed it,” Kylie tells. “They liked the mix of dance and Japanese elements. For instance, another dance I helped choreograph used Japanese fans. The girls wore gorgeous kimonos and the boys wore yukatas, which are traditional Japanese vests. The costumes looked great onstage.” Kylie made her VAPAR debut in last year’s comic production, ‘Big Hair in America’. She says opportunities

for Drama students, such as VAPAR, have helped her meet many new friends and grow in confidence. “My time at St Peters, especially studying Drama, has helped with my confidence so much,” Kylie says. “In Year 8, I barely talked. I’ve done Drama for five years now, and I can apply that confidence to everyday life.” She encourages future Years 9-12 Drama students to take up opportunities to participate in VAPAR with both hands. “Definitely get involved,” Kylie urges. “There is always something you can do. This year, people who didn’t want to be on stage did things like write scenes or dialogue, or produce choreography.” “It’s so much fun and you will make so many new friends,” Kylie insists. “It’s a really great experience.” Photography courtesy of F45 Photography.

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Ella Read: 2018 Indigenous Literacy Foundation Student Ambassador

When Year 11 student, Ella Read, first heard about the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) from her teacher, Ingrid Rucinski, she knew it was something she had to get involved in. “Ever since the Red Centre Indigenous Immersion trip last year, I’ve wanted to do something related to that,” she said. Ella was in the group of students who visited Cave Hill, Yulara, and Docker River as part of the 2017 Red Centre Indigenous Immersion. She said that the experience was life-changing and really paved the way for her future. That’s why it was with tears that she greeted the news she’d been named as one of the 2018 ILF Student Ambassadors. “I just started crying instantly,” she told Plus Ultra, “So many tears!” Ella received an email telling her the good news in the June/July school holidays. After earlier submitting a four-minute face-to-video application in which she addressed ‘why she believes in ILF and changing the literacy gap’, she endured a nerve-wracking waiting period.

“The opening line of the email actually sounded like an easy let down,” Ella recalled of the statement which indicated that the number of applications had been overwhelming. Lucky, though, that was not the case. Ella was one of just 15 successful applicants, Australia-wide, and she’s been actively raising funds and awareness for ILF ever since. “As a Student Ambassador,” Ella explained, “I have to drive registrations for Book Swaps.” She has also promoted ILF by visiting local businesses and football clubs; has organised two Book Swaps at Kenmore Village; held a fundraising dinner at Siam Sunset restaurant; held a bake sale for staff at St Peters; and she was a guest speaker at the Upper Primary Book Week High Tea, joining forces with Year 8 ILF Ambassador, Sam Giles. From all her efforts, Ella said that she’s learnt a lot about humanity. “While I’ve discovered that not a lot of people carry cash anymore,” she laughed, “I’ve discovered that people are still really generous.” Ella told Plus Ultra of a memorable moment from one of her Book Swaps — an instance where a man did not want to swap a book, but still wanted to donate money to her cause.

“MS RUCINSKI TOLD ME, AT THE START OF THE PROGRAM, THAT I WOULD BE SURPRISED BY HOW GENEROUS PEOPLE ARE!” – Ella Read, Year 11 student and Indigenous Literacy Foundation Student Ambassador “Ms Rucinski told me, at the start of the program, that I would be surprised by how generous people are!” In late August, Ella’s duties as an ILF Student Ambassador switched from being local, to inter-state ventures. As part of the program, she went down to Melbourne for a two-day Student Ambassador event. The first day saw her sharing an Indigenous inspired lunch with acclaimed Australian author, Andy Griffiths and, on the second day she joined with other Student Ambassadors to help run a communal Book Swap in Federation Square. The Book Swap involved 300 students from Melbourne schools. Ella was particularly excited by the scale and potential of that!

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*Pictured: Ella Read (pictured right) joined forces with fellow Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) Ambassador, Sam Giles (pictured left) and Year 6 students at the Upper Primary Book Week High Tea to fundraise for the ILF.

When asked about her goals after her time as an ILF Student Ambassador, Ella said she’d like to continue working for them. “It’s a cause that I’m passionate about. The reason I went on the immersion last year was because I think a lot of people are concerned with what’s going on overseas, and that’s important, but we actually don’t always know what’s going on in our own backyard. I mean, I certainly didn’t.” Ella’s long-term plan is to become a Speech Pathologist. This, she says, will not only combine

her dreams of becoming either a Nurse or a Primary School Teacher, but will also allow her to work in remote communities in Indigenous Australia. “I don’t think I’ll ever not do something that involves [Indigenous issues],” she said. “I love it.” Ella’s Book Swaps and Fundraising Dinner brought in $1,500 worth of donations for ILF. The St Peters Bake Sale added another $180 and, at Christmas, she’s planning to hold another Book Swap in the Langer Library. Ella’s end goal is $2,000. This, combined with the efforts of

“IT’S A CAUSE THAT I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT. I DON’T THINK I’LL EVER NOT DO SOMETHING THAT INVOLVES INDIGENOUS ISSUES.” our Upper Primary students, who raised $1,260 from their Book Week High Tea, Book Swap and Choc Toss game, will see an incredible donation to ILF from the St Peters Community!

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The Urban, Caloundra

With a string of five-star reviews and an Instagram feed to send your tastebuds into a frenzy, you could be forgiven for thinking that The Urban, Caloundra was amongst the longest established cafés in the bustling Bulcock Street area. Surprisingly, though, this little hub of caffeine and flavour is just nearing its third birthday. A combination of hard work, passion, and foresight has gone into making the venue such a success. Recently, Plus Ultra caught up with owner, Old Scholar, Alex Rutherford (2006), to find out all about it. Alex first opened the doors of The Urban, Caloundra just before Christmas in 2015. A Bachelor of 34

Health (Health Promotion) graduate and long-time Head of Department for Food & Beverage at Pelican Waters Golf Club, he said the idea of having his own place had been on his mind for a while. “Whilst completing my degree, I realised that a typical office job wasn’t for me,” Alex said. “I worked at the Golf Club for five years to build up my managerial skills and then decided to go out on my own.” Alex told Plus Ultra that the biggest barrier to opening the doors of his shop wasn’t a lack of experience or knowledge — at St Peters, he’d completed a school-based apprenticeship as part of the Hospitality Program and his time at the Golf Club had taught him

all about running a small business. Instead, what did put the brakes on his plans was his location. “The biggest barrier I had was the availability of appropriate spaces to lease,” he said. Still, inspired by a tiny espresso bar he’d seen near the beach, Alex bided his time. Eventually, an opportunity arose. “An acquaintance of mine had a place in town, operating as a donut shop,” he recounted. “I purchased the shop from her and put my own brand on it. From start to finish, the process took about a month!” Alex told us that, while he is proud of the café as it is today, it is not exactly as he’d originally envisaged.

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“MY CUSTOMERS APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT WHAT I SELL IS MADE IN-HOUSE, USING REAL INGREDIENTS, FROM SCRATCH.” – Alex Rutherford (2006), Owner of The Urban, Caloundra

“My plan was to sell coffee and small pastries only — mimicking the style of an espresso bar you might find in a Melbourne laneway. It didn’t take me long to realise that the customers here were not into that sort of thing.”

“I am very lucky because Caloundra is a very ‘local’ community — everyone knows everyone. There are great suppliers and business owners here and we all help each other out whenever we need to.”

Luckily, Alex has never been one to crumble under pressure. Keen to give the people what they wanted, he adapted. “I built a small commercial kitchen out the back and started to make my own cakes and sweets on site. My customers appreciate the fact that what I sell is made in-house, using real ingredients, from scratch.”

“FOSTERING CONNECTIONS WITH LOCAL SUPPLIERS AND OTHER BUSINESS OWNERS IS VITAL IF YOU WANT YOUR BUSINESS TO BE SUCCESSFUL.”

Reading his market well is definitely one of Alex’s strengths and, it seems, he’s been able to do this in all aspects of his business.

Alex counts some of these business owners as his personal friends. In fact, some are even family.

“Fostering connections with local suppliers and other business owners is vital if you want your business to be successful,” Alex told us.

“My sister, Dimity Corbin (Rutherford, 2008) is my coffee rep, so I work closely with her,” he said. “She is one of the best business

relationships I have and working together has definitely strengthened our relationship.” Alex also showcases his mother’s art in the café and he stocks his friend’s BRKFST (@brkfst_) products. This, he sees, is a way of adding to the chain of support that’s so important in Caloundra. When asked what’s next on the agender for him, he says only time will tell. “I am toying with the idea of another venue somewhere, maybe branching out into other types of operations. You never know what opportunities might pop up!” For now, though, it’s coffee and baked goods galore as he prepares for the approaching tourist season. To find him when you’re next up the coast, look for Shop 5: 51-55 Bulcock St, Caloundra or follow him on Instagram: @theurbancaloundra. 35

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The Commission Tradition

On Friday 17 August, the portrait of St Peters’ sixth Head of College, Adrian Wiles (2012-2016), was unveiled before special guests in the boardroom of St Peters’ historic Ross Roy House at Indooroopilly. The portrait, painted by Australian artist, Sally Ryan, in the classical realist style, is an austere depiction of the sitter, whose direct gaze is softened by the vibrant folds of a crimson academic gown with cerulean sash. St Peters Old Scholars Association (SPOSA) has upheld a long tradition of immortalising Heads of College in paint however, for SPOSA Alumni Officer, Yolanda Robinson, commissioning the portrait of Adrian was a novel experience. She used the Portrait Painters of Australia website to prepare a shortlist of artists, and says Sally Ryan was the unanimous choice amongst herself; former Head of College, Sally Chandler (1995-2002); and Adrian himself, for her ability to replicate the classical realist style of the other portraits of Heads of College, and her aptitude for painting hands – a specialised skill.

“For me, it was fun because I’ve never done anything like this before,” Yolanda explains of the process, which involved an initial sitting between subject and artist, and the use of reference photographs thereafter. Yolanda says, seeing the evolution of the painting, which Sally photographed and stakeholders approved in stages, was thrilling. “To see it from conception through to completion is very satisfying,” Yolanda says. “It’s a beautiful painting – I love it.” For Adrian, his portrait serves as a wonderful reminder of his time at St Peters, and of the faith the community invested in him over the years. “It was a wonderful privilege to have my portrait painted by such a talented artist,” Adrian says. “Sally Ryan captured every feature in the finished painting, and I am both very flattered and grateful to the St Peters Old Scholars Association, St Peters College Council, and the wider school community, for their recognition of my time spent at the helm of the College.” With the departure of Founding Principal of St Peters Springfield, Jill Lange-Mohr, in July, Yolanda reveals that planning is underway to

begin a tradition that honours past principals at St Peters Springfield. However, for the sake of practicality, their legacy will be in print rather than paint. She confirms that a photographic portrait of Jill has already been taken and, once framed and furnished with a plaque, will be hung in a meaningful location on campus. “It’s important to SPOSA that we continue with the traditions of St Peters,” Yolanda explains, “and we’d love to start a tradition at Springfield too.” The significance of continuing traditions that honour the history of our College is perhaps best summed up by Adrian himself: “In future years, the portrait will be a prompt for those who write the history of this great school, and it will hopefully take that narrative beyond my leadership role and into a space that recognises the efforts of colleagues, students, parents and Old Scholars, all of whom contributed to the achievements and growth that occurred during this era.” To find out more about Sally Ryan and her work, visit www.sallyryanartist.com

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45: A Milestone Year

When Old Scholar, Belinda Scott (Finger), graduated from St Peters in 1990, she set her sights on becoming a graphic, interior, or fashion designer. Little did she know that she would go on to make waves in all three industries: working as a magazine designer for two decades, the greater part of which at the helm of her own boutique design studio in Brisbane, before dedicating herself to developing a fashion-focused digital platform, while building and selling property with her husband, Chris (1990). This year, Belinda added yet another string to her bow, exhibiting 45 paintings spanning abstract, still life, and pop styles, at her first solo art exhibition, titled ‘45’, at Percolator Gallery in June. Belinda is a long-time artist, and recalls indulging her passion for painting as a Visual Art student at St Peters Indooroopilly in the late 80s. In 2016, she decided to recommit to the practice as a way to reengage her creativity and put some distance between herself and her computer. “I had a big urge to get more creative and arty,” Belinda explains, “and thought it would be a great way to relax and get away from my computer screen.” Under the tutelage of Beverley Tainton, an abstract expressionist painter and Somerville House alumnus who studied painting 38

under Archibald Prize finalist, Betty Quelhurst, Belinda’s output has been prolific. “I ended up having quite a few pieces of work,” Belinda explains, “so I mulled over the idea of having an exhibition.”

All that was left to do was set the date. “I decided that if I was to choose a week to hold my exhibition then I should do it in my birthday week, and this year I turned 45,” Belinda recounts. “So, to give it a theme, I decided to show 45 pieces of work during my 45th birthday week.” Belinda says she was overwhelmed at the number of family, friends, and acquaintances, who attended the Birthday Drinks with the Artist event on the evening of Thursday 25 June. Even her Visual Art teacher from her time at St Peters, Ruth Elvery, came along to support her. Belinda reports, of the 45 acrylic, mixed media, and digital works on canvas exhibited, she made 20 sales.

“TO GIVE IT A THEME, I DECIDED TO SHOW 45 PIECES OF WORK DURING MY 45TH BIRTHDAY WEEK.”

However, she admits she was relieved not to be parted from several works, including a self-portrait she entered into this years’ Archibald Prize, a renown competition that has celebrated Australian portraiture since 1921.

– Belinda Scott (1990), Artist

“I wanted to tick that box,” Belinda explains of her entry – a self-portrait of the artist, wearing a crown and skirt of vibrant iris blue, and seated in a spotty armchair. “I didn’t think anything would come of it, but I also thought: Why not?”

Belinda says that Percolator Gallery, situated in a weatherboard cottage along trendy Latrobe Terrace in Paddington, was an easy choice for her first exhibition. The gallery showcases contemporary works by emerging and established artists alike, and Belinda’s mentor, Beverley, had previously exhibited there.

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“I love great architecture and I’m in awe of this place, Thank God you’re heritage listed – we must all embrace! I smile when I see you, at different times you change colour. Oh, Walter, Graceville Uniting ... nothing’s more diviner” Belinda Scott

Canoe View 122x122cm mixed media o 09.17

Oh, Walter 122x122cm acrylic on canvas 10.17 8

pop

Kitschy, digital pop culture, mixed with appliqué.

e to paint what’s on the face, he face, or what’s behind it?” Pablo Picasso

Belinda Scott

Pictured: (Left) ‘You’ve Changed’, acrylic on canvas self-portrait that Belinda entered into this years’ Archibald Prize; (top right) ‘Oh, Walter’, acrylic on canvas; and (bottom right) ‘Bolt’, digital with hand-sewn appliqué. Belinda Scott

How I look 50x40cm acrylic on canvas 02.18

“Puctto, Puctto, what is that? It’s my fashion-tech startup, that’s where it’s at. Yes, yes sounds so crazy, but it’s been nearly five long years in the making. I’m beyond excited to launch this year. So when you see it – please give it a cheer! These creations are for the launch – bright and bold and fearlessly staunch.“

“You’ve changed. ‘I’d hope so’, I said with a smile. With courage to the Archibalds she went for a while. I know it’s a tad crazy, but what the heck, It’s just a big chook raffle so I have no regret.”

Bolt 90x90cm digital (with 04.18

or without handsewn appliqué)

45 | ABSTrACT • STILL LIfe • pop

You’ve Changed 76.2 x 76.2cm acrylic on canvas 03.18 45 | ABSTrACT • still life • POP

She says she is also happy to hold on to four digital works in a pop aesthetic, which feature painstakingly hand-sewn appliqué. The works are destined for the office walls of Belinda’s fashion-based tech start-up, ‘Puctto’. “It uses the latest technology to provide an immersive virtual shopping experience, complete with its own fashion-centred social network,” Belinda, who is Founding Director of Puctto, describes of the venture.

“YOU DON’T WANT TO LOOK BACK IN TEN YEARS AND THINK: I WISH I’D DONE THAT. KEEP TO IT UNTIL YOU’VE DONE IT.” Content on Puctto is generated by influencers, retailers and individual users.” With two prototypes under her belt, Belinda says she and her business partner are heading into beta-testing phase, before seeking seed investment to launch and scale the platform.

She goes on to explain, “For online shoppers the platform provides the ability to visualise clothes on themselves, create a complete ‘look’ “It’s been a real learning curve,” to get validation before buying, and search for specific items across stores. Belinda admits of the product’s

“I love the reflection the rowers, the tree I love living here – let’s please never le Belinda Scott

challenging five-year development phase, “but I believe in the product so much that I can’t walk away from it.” As for her journey as a painter, Belinda plans to continue on. She has this advice for students who want to tackle their bucket list, as she has done. “Just do it, because what does it matter?” Belinda urges. “You don’t want to look back in ten years and think: I wish I’d done that. Keep to it until you’ve done it.” To find out more about Belinda’s art work, visit belindascott.art. To find out more about Puctto, visit puctto.com 39

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Aiming for the Sky

As the year draws to a close for our Year 12 students, there’s always a lot of talk about career options. For St Peters Springfield student, Nicole Spencer-Scarr, however, that all started long ago. Nicole has her sights set high. At school, she’s been working hard and, outside of school, she’s been putting in the time. Nicole has ambitions to take to the sky — ambitions her teachers know well and have been supporting her to achieve. In July, on the recommendation of “I’VE ALWAYS HAD her Pastoral Care teacher, Nicole AN INTEREST IN attended the University of Southern AVIATION. IT’S IN Queensland’s (USQ’s) Aviation Two Day Experience. Along with 22 other MY FAMILY.” students from surrounding areas, she – Nicole Spencer-Scarr, Year 12 student at St Peters Springfield took part in workshops, listened to keynote speakers, and even got to fly a Boeing 737 Flight Simulator. It was Nicole told Plus Ultra that both her an incredible experience for this grandfather and father are pilots and, budding young pilot and one that just recently, they found out that certainly cemented her career goals. her great grandfather flew in the war too. Her dream is to take part in the “I’ve always had an interest in family tradition and she’s making all aviation,” she said. “It’s in my family.” the right moves to get there.

USQ’s Aviation Two Day Experience showed Nicole exactly what it’s like in the world she wants to join. She met the university’s Head of Aviation and Logistics, Professor Paul Bates; Senior Lecturer and Simulator Instructor, Mr Paul Lee; QantasLink Chief Pilot, Captain Adrian Young; Alliance Airlines Chief Pilot, Captain Rick Heaton; and female pilot, Tamara Vessi. The students who attended all had interesting stories to tell, but Nicole was surprised to learn that she was the only one who had started her flight training. “Most of the people there were kind of like: ‘I don’t really know what I want to do, but flying sounds cool!’ whereas I’m currently training over at Archerfield and typically fly once or twice a month.”

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Pictured: Nicole Spencer-Scarr, Year 12 student at St Peters Springfield, flew a Boeing 737 Flight Simulator at the University of Southern Queensland’s (USQ’s) Aviation Two Day Experience in July. Photo courtesy of USQ Photography.

Nicole told us she is just weeks away from getting her Light Aircraft Pilot Licence. She confessed too, that she flew a plane solo before she’d sat her Drivers Licence test! “The kind of licence I’m getting will allow me to fly in a two-seater plane within a certain distance of where I take off, and not in a controlled airspace. I have one more flight on my own to just practice everything and then my test will be a week after that.” So, with a Light Aircraft License almost tucked under her belt, where does she plan to go next? “I’m actually in the middle of working through my preferences. I’ve talked to the Careers Counsellor and am getting ready to do my online applications.”

“I WANT TO DO WHATEVER I NEED TO DO TO GET INTO THE AIRLINES. THAT’S MY ULTIMATE GOAL.” On graduating from Year 12, Nicole wants to enrol in USQ’s three-year Bachelor of Aviation. The degree incorporates two years of theory and a year of training. The third year, Nicole told us, will see her going to a certified training organisation to bill up her hours and work toward a Commercial Pilot Licence. From there, she hopes to go through QantasLink and become a Captain.

That’s my ultimate goal,” she said, confirming that, while she’s aiming for the sky, her head is far from in the clouds. Nicole knows that, to get into her career of choice, she needs to put in the effort and get a good OP. With her passion, commitment and the backing of her teachers, we think she’s in with a pretty good chance! Watch this (air)space.

“I want to do whatever I need to do to get into the airlines.

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One-On-One with Greta GR ETA BR A DM A N SIGNATUR E SER IES CONCERT A ND WOR KSHOP

The calibre of the St Peters choral program is one that stretches far and wide. From Primary Years to the Senior School, students can audition to sing in a range of ensembles, training their voices and learning to perform. St Peters students sing across the state, they tour the nation and around the world. They learn from the best and have access to state-of-the-art facilities, but that isn’t even the best part of it all! Throughout the year, St Peters choral students are granted exclusive access to leading artists and performers. The most recent of these was none other than Greta Bradman — one of Australasia’s most celebrated operatic voices and granddaughter of legendary ‘The Don’ (Sir Donald Bradman). Greta came to St Peters as part of the 2018 Signature Series Concerts. On Friday 10 August, she took to the stage in the Dron Auditorium and performed alongside Bella Voce, Forte Voce, the Junior High Songmakers and the St Peters Chorale. Before the performance, Greta set time aside to rehearse with our choral ensembles. Students were given the opportunity to sign up for lessons with her and a lucky trio of students were even invited to work with her one-on-one. Plus Ultra caught up with Lewis Scott (Year 12) — one of the lucky three. Lewis has been involved in the St Peters choral program since 2015 and is a member of the Chorale and Saints & Singers.

hat was working with Greta like?

It was awesome. Getting to work with someone with that much experience was pretty mind blowing. Only a few of us got to actually go and workshop with her — me and two others (Hailey Graham and Zoe Catchpoole, both Year 10). The workshop was like an open lesson, where she worked on individual technique with us. I am a bass and [Greta] is a soprano, so we’re sort of complete opposites, but there were still a lot of technical things that she was able to work on with me.

ave you done anything like that through the school before?

I’ve done a few little workshops, but nothing on this scale. It was a really great experience.

o you want to pursue music when you leave school?

I want to study Classical Voices at the Conservatorium next year, so this showed me exactly where I want to be.

ow do you think experiences like this workshop will impact your life? Learning things from such an acclaimed singer was amazing. If I can take just one thing away from it and keep that going, I’ll be all the better for it!

hat would that one thing be?

She spoke to me a lot about emotion — just making sure I’m really putting a lot of emotion into the pieces that I perform.

ow have you gone putting that into practice?

ow would you summarise the St Peters choral program?

It’s quite hard — I struggle with that kind of thing. So, it was really great advice, because it’ll be something I can improve on.

It’s amazing. I’ve been given so many opportunities from being here at St Peters. In 2016, I toured Europe with Chorale. We went to England, Wales, France, Germany and Austria and sang in huge cathedrals at each place. The most outstanding was the Salzburg Dom — you sing one note there and it lasts for over seven seconds! It was so good. Photography courtesy of F45 Photography.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Interest Spikes for Volleyball

Volleyball, at St Peters, is one of the few sports that transcends the gender divide. Offered to boys in Term 1 and girls in Term 3, it’s a sport that unites the College. This year, interest has spiked for the Volleyball program — an impressive 180 boys played the AIC season and 125 girls played the QGSSSA one. So why the sudden rise? AIC Volleyball Coordinator, Matt Bradforde, and QGSSSA Volleyball Coordinator, Josh Singh, both say it’s due to the standard of coaching and an incredible student mindset. “We have a group of coaches at the moment who have made Volleyball their priority,” Josh told Plus Ultra. Matt added that, thanks to a consistency in coaching, the program is starting to see a change. This, it seems, is something that the players themselves have started to pick up on. 2018 Girls Volleyball Co-Captain and Captain of the Opens team, Heidi West (Year 12),

told us that her coach, Boris Georgieff (President of Volleyball Queensland) is the reason she started to take the game seriously. “It took me a few years to actually improve [but] I’ve been lucky enough to have Boris as my coach for two years now. He’s amazing. He has so much experience because he works with national teams.” Like Matt and Josh, Heidi added that mindset has a lot to do with the spike too.

“Mr Singh has been creating a culture for the sport,” she said. “We have more responsibility [and it] teaches you to respect the game. We turn up to our home games in formal uniform… and it just seems more team-orientated. In Volleyball, you have to be a really good teammate on the court to do well. When we take that attitude off the court, it creates a good culture. It’s a really supportive environment.” When asked about his motivations behind this, Josh told us that he wanted the younger girls to feel like there was a pathway of progression available to them. This is an approach that’s consistent across the whole Volleyball program, as evidenced by Matt.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

“IN VOLLEYBALL, YOU HAVE TO BE A REALLY GOOD TEAMMATE ON THE COURT TO DO WELL. WHEN WE TAKE THAT ATTITUDE OFF THE COURT, IT CREATES A GOOD CULTURE.” – Heidi West (Year 12), 2018 Girls Volleyball Co-Captain Pictured: A high standard of coaching and a positive culture are attracting more and more students to St Peters’ Volleyball program.

In addition to their in-season games and training, Matt told us that St Peters Volleyball players compete in the Queensland Senior Schools Cup (QSSC) in the middle of the year, the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup (AVSC) at the end of the year and, just recently, the Junior Volleyball Schools Cup (JVSC) in Term 4. Selection for these competitions is based on the preceding season’s performance and this is where the path of progression comes in. “Our AIC 7As won a premiership last season,” he said. “That’s the first time that a Year 7 Boys Volleyball team has won a premiership here. Unfortunately, those boys are too young to go down to AVSC, so, along with the premiership-winning

QGSSSA 7As, we’re sending them to the JVSC instead.” Matt said that this kind of incentive process began last year. Students who had done well in the season before, but were too young to go to AVSC, competed in JVSC and won. Experience breeds success, it seems, and that’s exactly what the Volleyball program is attempting to do. One of the main drivers behind this is the Sunday Spikes round-robin program. Started in 2010 by Volleyball Coach Mentor, Mike Rickerby, Sunday Spikes was designed to get students more touches on the ball. The program runs year-round as an addition to AIC and QGSSSA games and training and, as 2018 Girls Volleyball Vice-Captain, Ella Farlow (Year 11), told Plus Ultra, “all are welcome”.

With so many opportunities presented to them, it’s no wonder that the talents of our St Peters Volleyballers have, this year, been shining through. In Term 1, the boys recorded their most successful season of the last four years — they placed second in the overall AIC Volleyball aggregate results, the First VI came in third and premierships were awarded to the 7As and the Second VI. Our girls followed this up in Term 3. They came in first in the QGSSSA Volleyball aggregate results and the 7A, 8A, Senior A and Opens all won premierships. With results like these, the St Peters Volleyball spike seems to be heading ever higher. Bring on 2019!

Plus Ultra / Around the School

St Peters Inaugural Sports Lunch

On Friday 17 August, St Peters hosted the inaugural Sports Lunch at Hillstone St Lucia. The lunch, designed to raise funds for St Peters Sport programs, featured a stellar line-up of guests. These included the ever-entertaining AFL legend, Richard Champion, as MC; St Peters Western head swim coach, Dean Boxall; a SPOSA Q&A Panel made up of Olympic and Commonwealth Games Race Walker, Dane BirdSmith (2009), World Champion Triathlete, Maxine Seear (2001) and Olympic Rower, Jess Hall (2009); and the very special guest speaker, Wayne Bennett AM. More than 200 guests attended the lunch and Wayne kept them all captivated for over 45-minutes. He talked about his experiences as a coach and working with young men. His address was witty, perceptive and, while it drew on examples of elite-level coaching, could be easily applied to child-rearing at any stage. Aside from guest speakers, the Sports Lunch proceedings included canapes on the terrace, a two-course meal, a raffle, and an auction. At the conclusion of the day, a group of very lucky attendees went home with prizes such as a Queensland Maroon’s jumper, a football signed and delivered by Old Scholar and Queensland Reds player, Moses

Sorovi (2013), family photography vouchers, and more. Total funds raised came in at over $6,500, which exceeded all expectations! The success of the inaugural Sports Lunch was completely unprecedented and would not have been possible without the support of everyone who attended. To our guest speakers — we are sincerely grateful for your time and insights, and to our event sponsor, All Clear Print & Signs — the support you continue to show for St Peters is truly astounding. Finally, thank you to Hillstone for hosting us, and to all the staff who assisted on the day. We look forward to an even bigger St Peters Sports Lunch in 2019.

THE SUCCESS OF THE INAUGURAL SPORTS LUNCH WAS COMPLETELY UNPRECEDENTED AND WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF EVERYONE WHO ATTENDED. If you wish to get involved or become a sponsor of next year’s lunch, please contact Director of Community Engagement, Ross Thomson: (07) 3377 6580 or r.thomson@stpeters.qld.edu.au

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Boarding Family Groups

They say that blood is thicker than water, but is it thicker than the bond between boarders? After talking to Year 12 student, Leandra Peiris, about her Boarding Family Group, Plus Ultra suspects that nothing is thicker than that! Boarding Family Groups are a unique concept introduced by the Boarding Coordinators to break down the year level divide. “I think, from the [Coordinators’] point of view,” Leandra told us, “the whole idea behind the Family Groups was to interconnect the students and to make sure that the Year 12s don’t look so scary and detached from the younger years.” At the start of each year, all boarding students are assigned a Family Group. Usually consisting of around five students, with a Year 12 student as the head, these groups meet at least once a term to just hang out. Leandra has been a part of three Family Groups since she started boarding in Year 10. She says

that each of them has definitely enhanced her boarding experience. “By being in a Family, I think I’ve learnt how to raise my own. When I came here, I had the Head Boarder Girl as my Family Mum…she was just so supportive of me when I was new.”

“WE GET TO SHARE OUR PAST, OUR CULTURE AND OUR BELIEFS.” – Leandra Peiris, Year 12 Boarder and Mum to a Boarding Group Family Leandra has successfully taken her Family to another level. Not only does she organise more than one outing per term, she continuously puts her Family needs before her own. She’s created an atmosphere that just seems to draw people in.

And that’s exactly the point. Complete with a grandparent (a Junior Boarding Resident), a parent (a Year 12 boarder) and, of course, children (all the other students in the group), Boarding Family Groups act as support systems. “I started with just five kids assigned to me,” Leandra said. “But it’s grown “Boarding is a whole different type to about 12 now!” of living,” Leandra said. “There’s so much going on, so many things to do. And there’s always someone to talk to!”

All are welcome in Leandra’s Family Group because she sees the girls as her legacy.

This year, Leandra became a proud Family Group Mum — a Mum that has quite the reputation of going above and beyond.

“For me,” she said, “it’s not like I want to get my name on some board at the end, you know. It’s these kids. I’ve tried to be the best role model I can and hopefully they grow up to be great people — that’s all I can hope for.”

“Just the attention to detail that this one puts in… it makes everyone feel so included,” said Jen Horn (Junior Boarding Resident and ‘Granny’ to Leandra’s Family).

Plus Ultra / Around the School

*Pictured: Three generations of a Boarding Family Group (L-R): Leandra Peiris (Year 12), Jen Horn (Junior Boarding Resident), and Venice Tan (Year 10).

Leandra told us that her Family’s biggest strength lies in its multiculturalism.

“We have a Family Group Snapchat and we sit together at dinner, even when we don’t have to,” Leandra said.

“We always joke that Granny Horn is the only Australian,” she mused. “Everyone else is from somewhere else. We get to share our past, our culture and our beliefs — the deep and meaningful stuff. We’ve integrated our cultures quite a bit.”

When asked what will happen to her Family when she graduates at the end of the year, she’s confident they’ll stay close.

But, aside from integration, what is it that these Family Groups actually do? The answer is simple — exactly what a regular family would do! From movie nights, to cinema trips; dinners at restaurants, to end-of-exam celebrations, Boarding Family Groups are there for it all.

“I THINK THEY’LL BE MY LIFE-LONG FRIENDS. EXCEPT I WON’T EVER CALL THEM MY FRIENDS, BECAUSE THEY’RE MY KIDS.”

“I’m really excited for Term 4 because, “I think they’ll be my life-long even though I’ll be leaving, it’s new friends. Except I won’t ever call them beginnings for everyone else. I’m my friends, because they’re my kids. pretty sure that all the [current] They’ll never not be my kids!” Year 11s in my Family are going to take the younger members and Now, we don’t know about you, do combined outings [next year]. but that sounds like one pretty So, while they won’t be in the same thick bond. family anymore, they don’t have to lose that closeness we’ve formed.” And her? She says she’ll always keep in touch with this year’s Family.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Performer of the Year Performer of the Year has long been a major calendar event for the St Peters Music Department. Since its conception in 2005, it has offered the chance to recognise and celebrate the talents of our gifted music students and is split into two categories: Recital and Concerto. Finals for each are held throughout Term 3. Recital finalists take to the stage at the start of the term, while Concerto finalists take the lead toward the end of the term, with the backing of a full orchestra. The title of ‘Performer of the Year’ is one that warrants great esteem. This year, an impressive 25 students entered for the chance to win, each submitting a recording of themselves playing two contrasting pieces on instruments of their choice. The recordings were adjudicated by Wayne Brennan (Queensland Symphony Orchestra), who then selected the finalists for each category. Nine students were selected for the Recital finals: • Yangyang Li (Year 10 – violin); • Heather Deacon (Year 12 – violin); • Lauren Saunders (Year 12 – alto saxophone); • Grace Sun (Year 9 – piano); • Mark Lubke (Year 9 – violin); • Zoe Catchpoole (Year 10 – voice); • Victor Huang (Year 7 – piano); • Aden Gao (Year 8 – piano); and • Lief Lundmark-Aitcheson (Year 10 – cello).

was also invited back to perform as a guest-artist at the Concerto final.

hat did you play in the Recital final?

I played the Elgar Cello Concerto in E Minor, Opus 85 First Movement and the Bloch Prayer from Jewish Life.

ow long did it take for you to learn your pieces?

Both pieces were part of my exam repertoire so they’ve been a major focus for me. I’ve been learning them for at least a year.

o you have plans to continue music after High School?

I want to join the Queensland Symphony Orchestra or the Queensland Pops Orchestra and possibly study music at university, although I’ll probably study medicine.

Four students were selected for the Concerto finals: • Angelina Kim (Year 10 – viola); • Leon Ly (Year 10 – harp); • Nic Wallace (Year 10 – piano); and • Erna Lai (Year 12 – cello).

Recently, Plus Ultra sat down with the winner of the 2018 Recital finals, Lief Lundmark-Aitcheson. Lief plays the piano and cello, though cello is his main instrument of choice. He’s been playing since the age of seven and, not only did he win the final for his category this year, he

hat was it like performing as a guest artist at the Concerto Final?

hat ensembles do you currently play in?

I currently play in St Peters Soloists and Chamber Soloists, and also a quartet.

It was an honour. I came to St Peters a few weeks before last year’s finals. When I watched them, I thought, “Wow, that is so amazing!” None of the schools I’ve been to have

anything like [the St Peters Music Program] and the calibre of musician isn’t nearly as high. So, to actually get to perform a solo this year was really cool.

s the winner of the Recital Final, you got to choose a charity to donate the proceeds of the night to. Who did you choose and why?

I donated my winnings to Amnesty International. I think that there’s a lot of charities out there that focus on specific things, and that’s great, but Amnesty focus on everything. They know exactly where the money can go the furthest.

ould you recommend entering Performer of the Year to other students?

If you love performing, then definitely. I think it’s a great opportunity and, you may not get in, but just keep trying. Lief ’s Performer of the Year success saw a sum of $800 donated to Amnesty International. His Concerto Final counterpart, Year 12 student Erna Lai, chose Hungry for Music as her charity. When asked why, she said, “I believe that children from all around the world should have the chance to play an instrument, especially in remote places where resources are insufficient. Music is a wonderful thing that should be brought into everyone’s lives.” Erna has been playing cello since she was four and performed the Shostakovich Cello Concerto No. 1 exquisitely. Her success saw $1,400 donated to Hungry for Music. Photography courtesy of F45 Photography.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Positive Education ST PETERS LIFE SYMPOSIUM #3

On Tuesday 11 September, St Peters hosted its third and final Life Series Symposium for 2018 in the St Peters Performing Arts Centre’s Dron Auditorium. Dan Haesler, Director of Cut Through Coaching & Consulting, presented, ‘Positive Education,’ to help parents, staff, and friends, find out how we can help our children and young people experience greater wellbeing. Using Dr Martin Seligman’s PERMA model, Dan shared his tips for helping youth experience greater Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments. Plus Ultra reporter, Kathleen Barker, shares her favourite lessons from Dan’s presentation: WHAT WENT WELL? In order to achieve greater Positive Emotion, Dan suggests we open conversations with our children, spouses, colleagues, and friends with: ‘What went well?’ This question is intentionally leading and, if answered honestly, has the power to redirect our thinking towards the positive. However, Dan warns not to expect this practice to come naturally or easily – all new practices take concerted effort and repetition before they become habit.

THE CONTINUUM OF ENGAGEMENT Dan defines Engagement as: ‘the sense of living a life high on interest, curiosity, and absorption,’ and says ‘engaged individuals pursue goals with determination and vitality.’ Dan says we need to decide in which areas of our lives we want to sit at the highest level on the Continuum of Engagement, as being totally engaged in all things is impossible. He suggests looking to our greatest passions or highest values for the answers.

AIM TO BE A LITTLE LESS BAD Dan emphasises that the most effective way to encourage our children and young people to reach greater levels of achievement is to lead by example. Show them that you’re committed to improving something or learning something new by aiming not to ‘be really good’ but by aiming to be ‘a little less bad.’ After all, nobody has ever achieved anything worth achieving overnight.

To find out more about Dan Haesler, visit danhaesler.com

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Adding up to a Good Day

In a world full of emerging technologies, it’s easy to forget our foundation subjects — that is, unless you’re in Junior High!

*Pictured: (left) Sam Phillip (Year 8); and Victor Huang (Year 7).

Last year, Maths teacher, Wolf Stuetzel, introduced a ‘Maths Challenge Day’ to his Year 8 enrichment classes. Wolf wanted to change things up — to give his students an opportunity to hone their problem-solving skills while having some fun. The day was broken up into individual and team rounds. It was so successful that, this year, both the Years 7 and 8 Maths classes took it onboard. “We wanted to provide the students with an opportunity to be extended,” Maths and Psychology teacher, Danielle Appleton said. And that, they did. Winner of the Year 8 Individual Round, Sam Phillip, told Plus Ultra that the questions they were given really related to real-life situations and that there was a big emphasis on time. “I learnt that it’s important to be able to do the problems… but that you need to be able to work quickly through them as well,” he said.

“WE WANTED TO PROVIDE THE STUDENTS WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE EXTENDED.” – Danielle Appleton, Maths Teacher Victor Huang (Year 7) told us that the Challenge helped him with his teamwork. His team, who placed first, were able to cooperate and use common sense to figure things out on the spot. Victor also placed third in the Individual Round — an invaluable experience.

“It showed exactly where I got the questions right and where I could improve,” he said. Maths Challenge Day, on all accounts, was received well by the students this year. It will be extended to include Year 9s in 2019.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Parade of Nations On Tuesday 31 July, Multicultural Week celebrations kicked off at St Peters Indooroopilly with the annual whole-of-school, ‘Parade of Nations’. The parade showcased the flags and national costumes of the more than 60 countries in which our students and their parents were born, and featured recitations of the Lord’s Prayer by native speakers across 15 different languages. In her Ministry column in St Peters’ weekly newsletters, Chaplain Kirstin Munchenberg likened our calling to live in a multicultural community to the Trinity: “The Trinity is not about assimilation,” Chaplain Munchenberg wrote. “It is about uniqueness and unity held together by the heart of God.” “It is about journeying between our own and other cultures, and showing understanding and respect.” Throughout the week, students and staff continued the celebrations with community dancing; an International Food Fair; and an evening Gala, which raised money for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Guests enjoyed cultural music, dance, and martial arts performances.

Plus Ultra / Around the School

Plus Ultra / SPOSA

Pictured: It took Old Scholar, Kirsten Baade, three weeks to paint a mural at the Pacific Highway underpass in Woolloongabba.

Painting the Town

If you’ve had your eyes open while making your way around Brisbane over the last few years, you may have noticed a bright splash of colour starting to take over the otherwise dull city landscape. From giant koala statues to vibrant electricity boxes; underpass murals to large-scale neon installations — the street art scene in Brisbane has really started to make a change for the better. These days new artworks seem to be popping up around us overnight, but is that really the case? Who is responsible for this wonderful shift, and how long is it really taking to create them? Enter Old Scholar, Kirsten Baade (2006).

Kirsten is one of those people we all strive to be: she has multiple interests, in a range of different fields, and has found a way to bring them all together. At St Peters, she excelled at STEM subjects but also took a keen interest in art and music. She played electric double bass in the Symphonic Winds, double bass in the Orchestra, bass guitar in the Stage Band, and sang in the Chorale. She was also one of the pioneering members of the now booming St Peters Robotics program, taking part in RoboCup Junior not long after the competition first began. When she left school, Kirsten completed a Bachelor of

Engineering, majoring in Mechatronic Engineering. She kept up her music by studying Music Production part time and she started playing double bass and bass guitar in a number of jazz, pop and stage-production bands. To top it all off, Kirsten made time to try new hobbies. She started with cake decorating, moved on to model making and kept upgrading her skills until she found herself working on professional visual art projects. When Plus Ultra caught up with her recently, she was not only working on these projects, but making a name for herself as a street artist to watch. We asked her a few questions to find out more…

Plus Ultra / SPOSA

put a current through it. It took me “THE MOST CHALLENGE PART about three months to complete. IS NAVIGATING hat is the most challenging part of working on THE LOGISTICS these projects? OF CREATING LARGE-SCALE The most challenge part, for me, is PUBLIC ARTWORKS.” navigating the logistics of creating

– Kirsten Baade (2006)

id you always want to pursue a creative career?

When I finished school, I thought about studying music but I ended up going with Mechatronic Engineering. I thought it would be great to do something creative with it, like Animatronics. o you paint and create full-time now?

No, but I do it as much as I can. This year I’ve been very busy with projects, but I also do other work to pay the bills!

ell us a bit about your projects to date.

I make a lot of electronic art. I made a robotic sculpture for SWELL Sculpture Festival [on the Gold Coast] two years ago and this year I’ve made two illuminated electronic artworks for Vivid Festival in Sydney and BIGSOUND Festival in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley.

I also do street art projects. My favourite one of these was a traffic box that I painted in Mt Ommaney. My friend, Hannah Chen (2006), lives nearby, so I painted a giant colourful portrait of her.

ou did a mural on the Pacific Highway underpass in Woolloongabba — was that the biggest project you’ve done? The underpass took me about three weeks to complete, but the biggest project I’ve done was the one I did last May for Vivid Festival. I made a giant cross-stitch out of EL wire — a coloured wire that glows when you

large-scale public artworks. Things like sourcing materials, getting the right certifications, and waterproofing electronics can be tough.

o you have any advice for young creatives wanting to follow in your footsteps? Apply for everything and don’t be scared to try new things!

After meeting with Plus Ultra, Kirsten’s artwork featured at this year’s SWELL Sculpture Festival (13-22 September 2018). To view it, and to keep tabs on her upcoming projects, follow her on Instagram: @kirstenbaade.

Plus Ultra / Community News

Community News FACES, PLACES, SPACES

On Saturday 1 September, invited guests gathered at St Peters Performing Arts Centre for the dedication of the Dron Auditorium, named in honour of third and longest-serving Head of College, Dr Carson Dron (1970 – 1994).

// Naming of the Dron Auditorium

Throughout his tenure, Dr Dron influenced the introduction of: computers and Computer Education; Social Education, such as St Peters’ renowned

Ironbark program; Business Studies and Learning Support into the Vocational Education program; Pastoral Houses in the Boarding program; and the Junior and Middle School sub-schools. He also influenced the evolution of St Peters’ internationally acclaimed Chorale program. The St Peters community thank Dr and Mrs Dron for their legacy.

In Term 3, the Schoolwise Blog was launched. Located on the St Peters website, this wonderful resource features tips and advice from all the different departments within the College. These have been designed to assist students and parents as they journey through their schooling years.

New articles are added to the blog regularly. To read them, visit: stpeters.qld.edu.au/blog

After rising to fame as ‘The Bachelor, Matty J’ in 2017, Old Scholar, Matthew Johnson (2004) was again in the headlines this year. Recognised for his work as a first-time presenter on Network 10’s The Living Room, Matthew was nominated for the Graham Kennedy Award

for Most Popular New Talent at the TV WEEK Logies. The Logies took place on 1 July and Matthew was one in just five people nominated — an outstanding achievement.

// Introducing St Peters Blog

// Old Scholar at the Logies

Plus Ultra / Community News

In Term 3, Year 6 students had the opportunity to build solar lights for children living in energy poverty.

// SolarBuddy Visits Year 6 Students

Representatives from SolarBuddy, a charity that equips children in the South Pacific, South East Asia, and Africa with solar lights so that they can continue to study after dusk, visited Year 6 students to

On 19 July, St Peters staff members, Ross Thomson, Stuart Delaney, Kim Holman and Darren Grose, set off for a week in Papua New Guinea.

// St Peters Visits PNG

We thank Rotary at Kenmore who partnered with St Peters to sponsor this initiative.

community has long been a very important group to the College, so it was great to have the opportunity to touch base. Thank you to all who attended.

The week was spent catching up with current parents and Old Scholars in Port Moresby and Lae. The Papua New Guinea portion of our St Peters

On Sunday 9 September, the P&F Committee hosted the StÂ Peters Community Fun Day on Mayer Oval.

// St Peters Community Fun Day

teach them about the challenges faced by children living in energy poverty and help them to assemble solar lights for children in Papua New Guinea. Students then had the opportunity to write a letter to the child who will receive the solar light they built.

The theme of the day was Superheros and both attendance and costumes blew everyone away! The day included a fun run, jumping castles, food trucks, games,

prizes, and a special appearance by the school mascot. Thank you to everyone who came along to take part and to all of our incredible supporters, sponsors and volunteers â€” you made the day one to remember.

Plus Ultra / SPOSA

Reunion Weekend 2018 BY YOLA NDA ROBINSON, A LUMNI & A RCHIV E OFFICER

On 22 and 23 September, St Peters held its annual Reunion Weekend. The Diamond Graduates (1958) celebrated their 60-year anniversary, and the Golden Graduates (1968) celebrated their 50-year anniversary. A group of 85 Old Scholars who graduated between 1949 and 1968 met at the Diamond and Golden Graduates Luncheon, where they shared stories of their lives at St Peters and in the years that followed. Many tales of derring-do were shared – Helen Stolz (Heck 1958) laughed about the time girls had a water fight in the Ross Roy girls’ dorms above the Headmaster’s office. The water fight got out of hand, and water dripped down into the Headmaster’s office! The following day, these girls were called out to stand up at assembly! This is something that Helen will never forget. The festivities continued as groups of Old Scholars were taken on a tour of the College to see how things have changed in the many years since they last visited. We were pleased to showcase the Performing Arts Centre to a group of 2008 Graduates, who joined the tour prior to attending their own evening reunion event off-site. After the tour, the group met for canapés with Head of College, Mr Tim Kotzur, at the Parents and Friends Centre. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this years’ celebrations.

Pictured: Golden Graduates (1968) Front Row: Marianne Steinhardt (Schroder); Ruth Lohe (Fehlberg); Ann Merson (Grimshaw); Lana Lung; Carol Hoey (Sellars); Lois Kuip (Chambers); Susan Dewitt (Krause); and Back Row: Judy Hembrow (Biar); John Hembrow; Esther Wiegand (Schulte); Esmae Taylor (Albrand); Robert Dumke; and Cheryl Hill (Brown). Diamond Graduates (1958) Front Row: Lorraine Quinn (Latza); Rajendra Deoki; Joy Baltzer (Hansen); Norma Forrest (Learmont); Joan Strophair; Helen Stolz (Heck); and Back Row: Jan Bradford (MacKenzie); Colin Kleinschmidt; Barry Tierney; Noel Radke; Bob Haack; Noel Haug; Ken Von Pein; and Terence Elliott. 55 Year reunion (1963) Front Row: Sandra Connolly (Seeto); Dianne Richter (Martin); Marilyn Shrapnel (Scott); Lavinia Perkins (Hopf); and Back Row: Warren Venz; Margaret Ebert (Strohmeyer); Ian Rehbein; Jill Natalier (Mayhew); and Robyn O’Brien (Martin). 65 Year Reunion (1953) L–R: Robert Krause; Joyce Damm (Badke); Keith Radke; Ailsa Herbert (Lockyer); and Reini Mayer.

Plus Ultra / SPOSA

Off-Campus Reunions 10-YEAR REUNION More than 70 Old Scholars attended the 10-Year Reunion on Saturday 22 September at Newstead Brewing Co, Milton. Some travelled from Melbourne, Sydney, Hong Kong, and even New York to attend. It was as if no time had passed, and we were back at St Peters in the locker area – sharing stories from the past 10 years and reminiscing about our school days. Everyone enjoyed themselves, and many went on to a bar in Fortitude Valley, socialising ‘til the early hours of Sunday morning. Thank you to organisers: James Rose, Alex Peisker, Sidne Yeo, and Sam Kyriakidis. 30-YEAR REUNION After a last minute change of venue, Jordan Millar got the Class of 1988 together for their 30 th Reunion on Saturday 22 September at the Tuk Tuk Bar, Milton. Approximately 42 classmates attended, travelling from across the country and the world! With plenty to eat and drink, school friends from decades ago excitedly chatted, sharing the experiences of three decades of life after St Peters. 45-YEAR REUNION On Sunday 23 September, the Class of 1973 met at the Indooroopilly Golf Club for lunch. Old Scholars, Gwen Lewerissa and Tony Prince, hosted an intimate gathering for those who were able to attend. Some of the graduates travelled from places like Darwin and Mexico. Thank you to all of our Reunion organisers. For information about future reunions, keep your details up-to-date with SPOSA via email: sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au and keep informed via SPOSA’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/sposa45

Plus Ultra / SPOSA

Vale

B Galina Blake (Kisselman 1962) 21 June 1941 – 5 Aug 2018 Galina was a day scholar at St Peters for four years. Warren Edgar Berndt (1958) 15 Sept 1941 – 29 May 2018 Warren attended St Peters for his Sub Junior and Junior years.

F Darryl Fleischfresser (1962) 21 Dec 1943 – 25 Aug 2018 Darryl was born in Kingaroy. He completed his Junior schooling at St Peters. Darryl loved sport and was a keen competitor. He especially enjoyed participating in Swimming, Rugby Union, and Tennis, throughout his time at college. In 1968, he married Gweneth Hansen. They had three children: Kerryn, Treena, and Brett. An innovator, Darryl, with the assistance of his brothers, Barry and Glenn, designed and built drying bins and storage silos for the farm that was uniquely built into the side of a hill of their property. This was a first for the peanut industry, and technology well ahead of its time. During Darryl’s youth years, he was involved with Lutheran Youth of Queensland (LYQ ). When his children approached early youth years, he felt the calling to start a youth group with Gwen to give and share God’s love to all 62

denominations of children and youth in the community. He had a kind and caring nature, and always showed compassion and empathy towards others. Darryl adored his family, and especially his nine grandchildren.

H Robin Heitmann (1961) 15 Aug 1942 – 25 Jan 2018 Robin attended St Peters for his Scholarship to Junior years. He had retired to Hervey Bay and was living at the Baycrest Retirement Living village when he passed away.

K John Konga (1991) 23 Aug 1971 – 2013 Sadly, John’s life was taken in 2013. From Port Moresby, he had been a student at St Peters for Years 11 and 12. Owen Korowi (1970) 18 Apr 1978 – 6 Sept 2018 From Port Moresby, Owen was a boarder for Years 11 and 12. His peer group remembers him as a man with a great spirit.

Peter Keddie (1965) 29 Apr 1948 – 26 Aug 2018

Maki Nishio (1985) 2 Sept 1967 – 6 Dec 2017

Peter was a student at St Peters for Years 9 and 10. He had a solid career in insurance and remained with the same firm for forty years. However, his focus was his family – his three sons, and his true career was in cricket as a player, then an umpire. He encouraged his three children to play sports and to enjoy the game. Peter’s other great passion was for music. His knowledge of songs, especially from the 50s and 60s, was exceptional.

Maki attended St Peters for Years 9 to 12. Tak Ogawa, Maki’s husband, said:

He is sorely missed by his partner of twenty-five years, Helen, and his sons, their wives, and his grandchildren.

“Maki loved the College so much, and often told me about her great experiences in her school days there. I am so grateful to all of you and her friends there.” Maki and Tak had a son and daughter.

P Margaret Peltz (Mutze 1955) 28 Aug 1937 – 25 Apr 2018 Margaret spent from Sub Junior to Senior at St Peters. She was made a Prefect. A wonderful athlete, she was: Captain of Mitchell House;

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Vale

Captain of Interschool Girls’ Athletics; winner of the Senior Cup; and Captain of A Basketball. On leaving college, Margaret worked for several years in the shoe department of MacDonnell and East. She spent some time in Tasmania and worked as a nanny at Glenmorgan. Back in the Dalby area, Margaret married Merv Peltz and became a farmer’s wife. They had four children. A born giver, Margaret took a keen interest in the local sheltered workshop. Margaret’s daughter Jody attended St Peters.

S Dr David Stolz (1958) 15 Aug 1939 – 24 Aug 2018 David had a strong link with St Peters from the day of his enrolment in 1954. His father, Pastor Joe, was a member of the College Council. A superb athlete, David was Captain of Mitchell House; was awarded Sporting Blues for Cricket and Athletics; and was a Prefect. He met his wife June (Drew 1957) at an Old Scholars reunion. His two sons, David (1982) and Mark (1984), attended St Peters, as did his sister Annette (1961). On retirement from the ministry, David served as a part-time chaplain at St Peters. David was ordained in 1963, and served for over 40 years in the parishes of Wynnum, Redlands, Crows Nest, and Haden. He spent four years at Eight Miles Plains/ Mt Gravatt, then a further nine years at Mt Gravatt, before accepting a call

to Box Hill in Melbourne. During his time at Mt Gravatt, he was instrumental in the establishment of Redeemer Lutheran College in Rochedale and had the D G Stolz Sportsfields named in his honour. A man of great capacity to serve, David also gave his time freely, frequently taking up leadership roles in both State and National church organisations and initiatives. During his time at Box Hill, David was in a leadership role within the Victorian District from March 1993 onwards – firstly as vice-President and, in March 1998, as President. He had gained his Doctorate from Trinity Lutheran Seminary, in Columbus, Ohio and in 2006 was awarded the Lutheran Education of Australia service award. David retired in early 2004 and he, June, and their daughter, Paula, moved back to Queensland to a home in Clayfield. He and June moved into Zion Lutheran Home in late 2015, and June passed away in 2017. David Stolz – a true servant of Rev Max Stollznow (1963) 24 Mar 1942 – 19 Sept 2018 Max was enrolled at St Peters in his Junior year. He graduated from the Lutheran Seminary in 1971. He worked in Aboriginal missions in Central Australia as Parish Pastor and Chaplain, and in New Zealand as Parish Pastor.

Vice-President of the Lutheran Church in New Zealand. He served as Chairman Board of Aboriginal Ministry, Board of Lutheran Church Archive and, outside of the church, he was a Consumer Consultant for Healthscope, and a member of Rotary in Australia and New Zealand. During his time in South Australia, Max was a torchbearer in Tanunda for the 2000 Olympic games. Max and Rosemary were married for 53 years. They had three children and seven grandchildren.

T Ailsa Thomason (Kleinschmidt 1958) 13 Nov 1939 – 23 Jan 2018 Ailsa attended St Peters for her Scholarship to Junior years. She was a fine athlete and played in the A Basketball team in both years. She participated in House and Inter-school Athletics, and was runner-up in the Junior Cup in Sub Junior, and runner-up in the Senior Cup in Junior.

Full eulogies will be published in SPOSA Bulletin online

Max served the church as Vice-President of South Australia and Northern Territory, and was