LionAndThistle-Dec2015_WR

LION &
THISTLE
DECEMBER 2015
LION &
THISTLE
DECEMBER 2015
THE COLLEGE
Chairman of Council: Mr Doug Cosh
Principal: Mr Simon Shepherd
Head of Senior School: Mr David Proudlove
Business Manager: Mr Andrew Millard
Director of Learning & Innovation: Mr Nigel Grant
Head of Junior & Middle Schools: Mrs Michelle Brown
AUXILIARY GROUPS
Parents & Friends’ Association President: Mr Rob Lang
Parents & Friends’ Association Vice President: Mrs Angela Moody
Parents & Friends’ Association Secretary: Mrs Nicole Kane
Parents & Friends’ Association Treasurer: Mrs Jane Pollard
Past Students’ Association President: Mr Peter Campbell
Past Students’ Association Secretary: Mr Jim Muir
Past Students’ Association Treasurer: Mr Adrian Estwick
DECEMBER 2015 #99
Community Newsletter of SCOTS PGC College 60 Oxenham Street Warwick QLD 4370
T. 07 4666 9811 E. [email protected] www.scotspgc.com.au
News items welcome. All contributed material subject to editing.
Design & Print: PCGA Design Studio – www.pcga.com.au
Images: Greg Gardner Photography, Naturalite Studios, Simon Shepherd, Judi Haidley and other contributors.
QUT Marketing and Communication/Erika Fish and Roslyn Hart.
Cover: Holly Wickham and Amelia Meek supporting their Clans during the Interclan Cross Country Carnival.
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LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
PRINCIPAL
As you read this Lion and Thistle, I hope you see just how much is
happening at the College. Schools are a dynamic environment, i.e.
they are constantly changing. SCOTS PGC is no exception and as
we move forward we must ensure that our changes are progressive;
that enable our students to be all that they can.
Studies into teaching have clearly indicated that the quality of
teaching and learning that is taking place within a classroom will
have the biggest impact on student learning and outcomes. At
SCOTS PGC these research findings are being put into practice
and in 2015 we have started pedagogy coaching at the College.
All staff at the College are encouraged to observe their peers at
work and our teachers now have the opportunity to make use of a
pedagogy coach. This form of observation and feedback provides
our teachers with the information that they can use to ensure that
they are being the most effective teachers that they can. Having the
ability to provide our teachers with dedicated pedagogy coaching is
very exciting for the College and something that will help both our
teachers and our students as we strive to fulfil our potential.
Another exciting development at the College is the renewal of
outdoor education. As you will read later in this edition our Year
11s have enjoyed Outward Bound this year. The benefits of outdoor
education in a curriculum are significant and the College is examining
ways in which we can instigate an outdoor education programme
that provides every student with the opportunity to learn more
about themselves and their peers. I hope that by the time you read
your next Lion and Thistle there will be some very exciting news to
share about outdoor education at SCOTS PGC.
As these two new developments evolve it is important that we
recognise both of these changes are being done with student
learning and outcomes at the centre of the decision making process.
Changes such as these are progressive, they take us forward as a
College and ensure that all of the students who have an education
at SCOTS PGC have every opportunity the College can avail them.
Mr Simon Shepherd
Principal
Where country values inspire excellence
3
L-R: Ellen Bourke, Ebony Wickham and Nikki Crowther play tall, medium and small Alice
Summer Wickham plays the ‘White Rabbit’
MUSICAL
From the Director
The College’s Performing Arts Department has been exceptionally
busy this year leaping through the rabbit hole and tumbling
into Wonderland for what was another very successful Musical
production. We were very fortunate to have a wealth of talented
staff and students from a diverse range of strengths to collaborate
with and create an exceptional performance to present to the
Warwick community over three very well attended performances.
Lewis Carol’s “Through the Looking Glass” and Disney played an
immensely influential role in my childhood and I feel so blessed
to be able to inspire a new generation with such a treasured
children’s classic.
Amelia Starasts
‘Queen of Hearts‘ and
Joshua Crow ‘King of Hearts’
The five ‘Flowers’ performing during one of the scenes
A live musical theatre show requires many long hours behind the
scenes rehearsing, costuming, choreographing, building sets and
props, and most valuable of all, enthusiasm. In return, students
gained an insight and valuable experience in the performing arts
industry building communication skills, confidence and friendship.
Theatre is a collaborative industry. None of this would have been
possible without the talents of my co-director Wendy Whittaker;
choreographer Julia Ryan; Set Designer Lou Keevers; Costume
Designer Heather Goonan; Events Manager Judi Haidley, as well as
the care and support of countless parents and students.
Kaitlin Robbs
Musical Director and Head of Drama Department
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LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
Students performing at the Warwick Town Hall
Kate Sprott as the ‘Mad Hatter’
JUNIOR & MIDDLE SCHOOL
SEMESTER TWO
Semester Two in any school setting is always busy, but the array of
activities happening across Junior and Middle campuses this term
left everyone trying to catch their breath. Each week academic,
social, cultural and sporting events occurred as we tried to cater for
the interests and needs of every student.
The highlight of the semester was undoubtedly the very successful
Grandparents Day at the end of term three. The cold and blustery day
started with the traditional concert where a wide range of talented
students entertained their guests. The Grandparents watched with
pride as groups sang, danced, played bagpipes and drums, recited
poetry, performed skits, played a variety of musical instruments and
sang as part of the JAM choir. Everyone then migrated to the Junior
and Middle Schools for a welcome cuppa and a look through the
classrooms. The students showed their guests around with pride
and pointed out their work on display. As I looked around to see the
old and the young interacting and enjoying each other’s company,
I realised just how special such days are as they form wonderful
memories for all concerned.
The learning that occurred in each and every classroom throughout
the term, was diverse, creative and of a high level. The embedding
of basic skills and knowledge is at the core of what we do and
such learning is greatly enhanced by the use of various forms
of technology. All classrooms are equipped with interactive
whiteboards and students have daily access to laptops and
iPads. Students competed in various competitions and always
represented the College with pride. This included a group of Year 7
students who won the local Readers Challenge Competition from a
wide field of participants.
As part of the Year 7 Civics programme, the Year 7 students visited
the seat of federal government when they visited Canberra in
the first week of Term Four. Here they immersed themselves in
democracy as they visited the old and new Parliament House, The
War Memorial, The Electoral Education Centre, The National Capital
Exhibition Centre and many other important sites around Canberra.
Many of the students had a very successful sporting term, both
within the College and as part of Southern Downs and Darling Downs
teams. Athletics carnivals were run and all students competed
well and to the best of their ability. Several teams of enthusiastic
students competed in the local ballgames carnival and the Junior
Girls team took out the ‘A’ division on the day. The Junior School
students competed in their own carnival and the ageless games
helped forge teamwork skills amongst the children.
During the semester, two initiatives for the junior students got off the
ground and were widely taken up by the students. Each Wednesday
afternoon after school, more than fifty students participated in
dance classes and about sixty also were involved in the Arranmore
sport programme on a Thursday afternoon.
Students spend up to seven hours a day, five days a week in the
wonderful environs here at the College. They are being ‘educated’
in a wide spectrum of life skills as they take advantage of all that
is on offer – academically, sporting and culturally. They also learn
to become well balanced socially and to emerge as independent
learners with the confidence to ‘have a go’ at all that life will throw
at them.
Michelle Brown
Head of Junior & Middle School
‘FROZEN’ JUNIOR SCHOOL SOCIAL
Tom Littleproud enjoying the
Frozen Junior School Social
PREP STUDENTS BAKING UP AN ARREST
The Damperman
visits the Science Lab
Students from the Prep class at The SCOTS PGC College put out a
call for help capturing a slippery customer.
College teacher Mrs Lou Keevers read a story to the Prep students
called ‘The Runaway Damperman’.
The students made Damperman, who escaped and ran away on
an adventure around the College grounds, and the students leapt
into action.
College Teacher Mrs Wendy Whittaker
dancing up a storm
Trish our Lovely Lollypop Lady
showing the Damperman how to
cross the road safely!
Mr Shepherd almost
ate the Damperman
thinking he was a
cookie!
They made wanted posters, conducted searches and, needing
expert help, called in Sergeant Shane Reid, of the Warwick Police.
After some excellent police work, Sgt Reid located and arrested
Damperman and brought him back to the class.
The students were relieved to have the fugitive back in custody and
were grateful the search and capture didn’t cost a lot of dough.
Mrs Andrews showing him around
the Resource Centre!
Senior Sergeant Mr Shane Reid helped
the Preps locate the Damperman
Where country values inspire excellence
5
MIDDLE SCHOOL
CANBERRA TRIP
During the Year 7s annual visit to the nation’s capital, many
wonderful experiences were had! The students learnt the true
understanding of the various aspects of a democracy and had a
brief look at the many faces of war and the personal impact that
such wars have on ordinary Australians. They also had a chance to
really explore paintings and installations with passionate experts
in the field (this included a deconstruction of the painting ‘Blue
Poles’ and a look at the world famous artist – Monet). They looked
at the history of film and television and the impact it had on the
Australian culture of the time. A lesson in how to dress and conduct
oneself for a formal dinner was also covered as well as many other
learning opportunities including living in such close quarters as a
community. The students rose to every occasion and represented
the College very well. This made for a harmonious bus trip and the
highest level of enjoyment for the students and staff to remember
for years to come.
JUMPERS AND JAZZ
The members of the JAM group had a busy weekend of
performances as part of the local Jumpers and Jazz Festival
in July. They sang well on the Friday night as part of the
Winter Sings Concert in the College Chapel. On Saturday the
group performed twice in the main street and were a hit with
their audience.
Mrs Keevers and Autumn Taylor spent many hours preparing the
students for these performances and the JAM group was a credit
to the College.
Well done everyone.
The Junior and Middle School Choir performing during the Jumpers
and Jazz Festival
Ebony Wickham
and Music Teacher
Mrs Gabi Laws
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LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
SCOTS PGC Winter Sings Concert Choir
DEBATING
During Semester One, three Year Seven debating teams participated
in four separate debates organised by the Queensland Debating
Union (QDU). Some of the topics included:
• That school camps are a waste of time.
•
That we should ban television shows that criticise people’s
appearance.
• That children should not be given mobile phones.
Year 7 Debating: Leila Wilson, Joshua Crow, Aidan Ryan, Kira Holmes, Joseph Byrne,
Tom Keable, Alice Cook and Toby Rozynksi. Absent for photo Patrick Swift
Throughout the debates, our students worked hard to prepare
their arguments and were praised by the adjudicators who judged
the debates. One team made it through to the final elimination
rounds. However, all the students who participated are to be highly
commended for the time and effort they invested in debating. Some
spent many hours, outside class time, preparing and rehearsing their
speeches. Others established on-line forums to discuss their points.
Team Three, Debating Finalists: Left to right: Connor Merton, Andrew Wu,
Abby Dalziel and Katie Somerset. Absent for photo Christopher McCosker
ROBOGALS
In Term 3 Dan and Eilish from Robogals spent a day at the College
working with the Year 5 and 6 students in the WALEC. Robogals is
an organisation that was originally started by a female engineering
student from Melbourne who felt really outnumbered whilst
studying and wanted to do something to promote engineering to
other ‘gals’. The organisation has grown rapidly, and in the eight
years since its inception has grown to over 15 chapters nationally
and 30 chapters internationally.
Engineering is promoted through Lego robotics, where students
learn, not only about design, construction and programming,
but also learn about mathematics, physics, problem solving,
and perseverance. These are all key areas for the new National –
Technologies Curriculum due to be released next year, so the Year
5 and 6 students will be well prepared for the new curriculum.
Erin Keogh and Sahna Bramich
Samantha McKechnie and Omeno Mek
Chloe Wainwright and Niamh Fender
Max Keable and Andrew Willett
Where country values inspire excellence
7
SENIOR SCHOOL
THE GREAT OUTDOORS?
Whoever first coined that particular phrase would have been
thrilled to witness how 61 of our Year 11 students fared in the recent,
inaugural SCOTS College Outward Bound experience. As one of the
4 teacher-leaders of a group of 16 students, mixed intentionally
to be a fair representation of the overall mix of gender, boarder/
day student, vocational and academic stream across the entire
cohort, it was an absolute privilege to accompany this group. Those
5 days in the Upper Clarence River Valley (and we were actually in
the Clarence River on a regular basis!) created many marvellous
memories and, for me, was a reminder, not that one was needed,
why working with young people of diverse origins offers rewards
like few other professions.
Within the first 6 hours, and despite a huge, spectacular electric
storm and pelting rain, timed perfectly to add 2 cm of cold rain water
to our campfire-cooked evening meals as we huddled in our tents
with lightning sending brilliant flashes of white and flame-orange
under the flapping flysheets, the first enquiry, ‘will we be able to
do this again in Year 12?’ was ventured. All the more remarkable
that such a question came from a young woman who had needed
persistent persuasion to join the rest of her Year group for this trip,
already immersed in experiences far beyond her comfort zone.
And so unfolded beautiful, sun-kissed early spring days canoeing
along the calm, and then rather animated and rapid-strewn waters
of the Clarence; misty-dawned days of drizzle that cloaked the
forested hills in silvery cloud and added what seemed like many kilos
to overloaded backpacks; and moonlit nights around the campfire
8
with endless hours of yarning and reminiscing, as enormous al
fresco banquets were slowly and satisfyingly digested. It is perhaps
those flickering, heart and hand-warming fires that witnessed the
most special moments.
One young man, when questioned by our Outward Bound leader,
confessed that the brief time spent with our little group revealed
to him that he was indeed cared for and valued by his peers,
something he hadn’t realised was possible. Another remarked that
she loved the sense of being reunited with those whom she had
been close friends with in Year 10, before the ‘split’ into a vocational
and academic stream meant less time was spent together around
the College than previously.
And ironically, as our little, increasingly close-knit team shared everdeeper confidences, the aspect of life, ‘back home’, that was most
missed was not Facebook, but family.
However many more such experiences I am fortunate enough to
be part of in my career, I am certain I will never forget the young
woman who wandered between all our tents as torches were finally
extinguished and sleeping bags zipped up, wishing that we should
all, ‘Sleep with the angels’. How could anyone not feel profound
optimism for our future?
David Proudlove
Head of Senior School
ELLIKA WHELAN – GEOGRAPHY COMPETITION
GOLD FOR SCOTS VET STUDENT
SCOTS PGC College has excelled in the
Australian Geography Competition for
2015. Head of the College Humanities
Faculty Mr Michael Keevers, said he
was delighted when he received the
students’ results as the school’s overall
performance was excellent.
Congratulations to Year 11 student,
Cooper Rafton, who was awarded a
Gold Medal in the Primary Industries
VET in Schools category at the state
WorldSkills Regional finals held at South
West TAFE’s Toowoomba Campus.
Ellika with the College’s
Head of Humanities
Michael Keevers
This year as part of the competition
students were required to demonstrate their knowledge about
global and local issues, with questions on mapping skills, population
issues, climate change and natural hazards.
Cooper’s excellent rural skills were put Cooper Rafton with his
Gold Medal
to the test throughout the competition
as he, along with the other competitors, were asked to complete
a Pre-Start check on a Tractor, construct an electric fence, stack
hay onto a pallet and set up a pump and repair poly pipe.
Year 11 student Ellika Whelan was awarded a position to the
2015 Geography’s Big Week Out on North Stradbroke Island, as a
result of her outstanding results in the National Competition. This
six day training and selection course will provide four students
the opportunity to represent Australia at the 2016 International
Geography Olympiad in Beijing, China.
Cooper who is currently undertaking the VET Stream pathway of
study at the College as well as a Certificate III in Agriculture was
excited to have the opportunity to compete in the competition.
Cooper and his peers who also attended were able to use the
skills they have developed on their home properties to compete
in the state finals with students from other schools in the district.
Ellika received her award at the Queensland Geography Teachers
Conference from Dr Iraphne Childs, School of Geography, Planning
and Environmental Management.
Cooper, as the Queensland representative in Primary Industries
VET in Schools category, will have the opportunity to compete in
the National Finals of WorldSkills Australia in 2016.
LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
SHEEP CLUB
SCOTS PGC SUPREME
AT THE EKKA
The SCOTS PGC College Sheep
Club returned from the 2015
Ekka with a swag of ribbons.
The College exhibited thirteen
of their stud Texel sheep – seven
in Open classes and six in Interschool classes – and returned
with their best-ever results. In
the Open classes, SCOTS sheep Keeley Fagg and Kate-Elizabeth Worth
took out Champion ram, ewe displaying the ribbons won by the
SCOTS PGC Sheep Club
and breeders’ groups, while in
the Inter-school classes they had to settle for Reserve Champions
(behind Warwick SHS). However, when the Texel champions went
out to contest the inter-breed, it was a SCOTS ram lamb (11 months,
81 kg) that was awarded the ribbon for Supreme Champion Ram of
Show. The Texel breeders’ group was also highly commended in a
competition that was eventually taken out by Suffolks exhibited by
Dakabin SHS.
Meat Sheep Young Judges and Junior Handler
classes were also hotly-contested at the
Royal Queensland Show, with more than
a hundred students from seven different
schools competing. Again, the SCOTS students
excelled, with 11 year-old Keeley Fagg placed
second in the U15 section of Young Judges,
and 15 year-old Kate-Elizabeth Worth placed
second in the 15 years and over sections of
both the Young Judges and Junior Handlers.
ART
EXCELLENCE IN VISUAL ARTS
Two of our Year 12 Visual Arts students, Abbey McNamara and Hin
Lee, represented the school at the Creative Generation Awards at
the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery. The Creative Generation
Excellence Awards showcased outstanding visual artworks by senior
high school students from 19 schools across the Darling Downs and
South West region.
Jessica Welsh a Year 8 student, was the youngest entrant in the Art
@ St Mark’s Competition this year and entered 4 artworks. The work
shown below is called ‘Moon Rise’ and was made using only spray
paint. Jessica is self-taught in the skill of spray painting and simply
watched YouTube videos to perfect her technique, a true talent!
Since her work has been exhibited she has sold many of her works.
Congratulations Jess!
10 LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
SHEEP MUSTER
38 students and four teachers from six schools spent the last
weekend of their Term 2 school holidays at a Sheep Education
Muster, hosted by SCOTS PGC College. Students from Warwick
SHS, Corinda SHS, Dakabin SHS, Rochedale SHS and Calvary
Christian College, as well as SCOTS PGC, participated in a range of
theory and practical sessions over the two days, culminating in a
Junior Judging competition.
A range of well-known sheep industry identities came to the muster
and shared their cumulative knowledge and experience. Chris
Rubie (Sovereign Poll Dorsets), Josh Milton (Milton Park Suffolk &
White Suffolk), Lyndon Frey (Silverdale Dorset Horn, Poll Dorset &
Southdowns), as well as Maurice & Noelene Byrne, Andrew Herron
and Erin Lee, all contributed to sessions about sheep selection,
preparation for showing and the features of different breeds.
Warwick vet Ian Olsen spoke about sheep disease prevention, and
on-farm butcher Rob McKechnie marked up a young ewe to help
students understand where the various cuts of meat come from.
The Junior Judging competition was introduced by Craig Turner
(previous president of the Australian Corriedale Association) and
the over-judge for the competition was a pioneer of the Texel breed
in Australia, Duncan McMaster. Winner of the senior class in the
judging competition, Molly Taylor from Rochedale SHS, qualified
for the 2016 Queensland final for Meat Sheep Junior Judging on the
basis of her win in this extremely hotly contested event.
Event organiser, Nigel Grant, credited the late Samantha McConnellGreen for the idea of the Sheep Muster – “Sam ran events like this
at the Toowoomba Show Grounds for several years, and it was too
good an idea to let go.”
EQUESTRIAN
During the June holidays members of the SCOTS Equestrian
Team competed at this year’s Interschool State Championships
at Maryborough for dressage, showjumping, showman and show
horse. We had some very good performances across the whole
team, with our primary showjumpers once again doing well at this
year’s championships and taking out Reserve Champion team. The
team consisting of Max Keable, Felicity Sellick and James King.
The individual standout performance of these championships was
Samantha Robertson’s 3rd place overall in the secondary 110cm
showjumping championships riding her horse Hoity Toity, which
gained Sam a place on the Queensland State Team to compete at
the Interschool National Championships in Sydney in October.
Also performing well at the State Championships was Kate
Johnstone riding Olney Park Flash placing 2nd overall in the
secondary 60 cm showman class and 4th in Secondary intermediate
preliminary championships. Adrienne Geary finished 6th in the
secondary showman 85 cm class riding her ESB Irish Medal. Nikki
Crowther riding Corvan Park Latte placed 5th in the secondary 70 cm
championship. Max Keable riding Riverdaire Warregah placed 6th in
the primary 70 cm championships and primary 60 cm championships
Felicity Sellick riding Coco placed 4th and James King riding Gidgee
placed 5th.
On return to school our Equestrian Team members turned their
attention to the Interschool State one-day event and combined
training championships, which this year were held at Morgan Park
Warwick. Once again this turns out to be a good competition for our
team members. Kate Sexton riding her horse Ivy Bank Billionaire
was placed 3rd in this year’s EvA 105 class Championship class
and gained qualification for Kate to the Queensland Team. Also,
qualifying for the Queensland Team at these championships was
Isabel Pyne riding Mighty Titan. Having finished 5th in the EvA 80
class Isabel also joins Kate and Sam on the Queensland Interschool
Team to compete at this year’s National championships.
Other good performances at this year’s eventing Championships
came from James King riding his pony Gidgee in the EvA 60 primary
Secondary Eventing team Isabel Pyne,
Kate Sexton, Nikki Crowther
and Jedd Johnstone
Izzy Pyne
Kate Johnstone
Kate Sexton
Adrienne Geary
James King
Primary Showjumping Team:
Felicity Sellick, Max Keable
and James King
Felicity Sellick
Nikki Crowther
Samantha Robertson
class when he finished 3rd, in the secondary EvA 60 Nikki Crowther
riding Corvan Park Latte finished 5th and Kate Johnstone riding Olney
Park Flash finished 6th in the 60 cm secondary combined training
championship. Our Secondary eventing team finished Reserve
Champions at this year’s championships. Team members were Kate
Johnstone, Nikki Crowther, Isabel Pyne and Jedd Johnstone.
Our 3 equestrian members who competed at this year’s National
Interschool Championships over the September holidays performed
extremely well, with Sam Robertson finishing 3rd in the 110 cm
secondary showjumping championship competition and Kate Sexton
placing 5th in the 105 EVA eventing championships and Isabel Pyne,
at her first national championships competed extremely well and
was competitive throughout the whole competition.
CEILIDH
PIPES & DRUMS MINI-BAND AND SOLO COMPETITION AND CEILIDH
With College approval and support the Pipes and Drums were
fortunate to be given the opportunity to organise a Pipes and Drums
Mini-Band and solo competition on 5 September this year followed
by an evening Ceilidh (Scottish social evening).
The Pipes and Drums Competition attracted in excess of 100 solo
performances with visitors coming from Brisbane and regional
Queensland to compete. There were 12 enthusiastic mini-band
performances also. This event also had food and retail stalls as
well as sporting activities. The Competition finished with a rousing
Massed Band display and presentations. Some highlights included
an Under 12s and Veteran’s solo competition, the St Andrews Pipe
Dominic
Andersen-Strudwick
and Aidan Ryan
Liz Simmers, Judi Haidley,
Leisa McGahan, Jenny Ryan
and Christine Peterson
Band recently returned from the World Championships in Scotland
and the Drum Salute and Drum Major Displays.
With no time for relaxation the Scottish experience moved on to
the evening Ceilidh. The College Choir sang some beautiful Robert
Burns songs, there was an energetic Address to the Haggis and
“Scotch and the Rocks” accordion band and singer led the lively
Scottish music in what was a busy evening of Scottish Country
Dancing. A highly successful and enjoyable day concluded with Auld
Lang Syne with the College, local and Caledonian community rising
to link arms, to remember “old long friendship” boding each other
well and good health until next year.
Elaine Dalziel being piped in
with the Haggis she prepared
for the Scottish evening
Where country values inspire excellence
11
SPORTS
RUGBY
The 1st XV have had a hugely successful year in 2015. They won
the TAS competition with an undefeated season. They also won
the Tartan Shield for the first time in 15 years and other significant
achievements included a win against the Nudgee 3rd XV (31-5),
which at that point in time was the only loss any Nudgee team had
all year.
U10 & U12
U14 & U15
In the junior competition the U10 & U12 teams were again
battling against much stronger opposition, however recognition
should go to Will Gilmore for his selection in both the Schoolboys
and Regional representative sides. Tom Winter should be
acknowledged for his continuing selection in representative
squads at the U15 level, including his selection in the Gold
Squad. Toby Gilmore, Matt Fatnowna, Mitch Bourke and Arnie
Briel were also selected in Darling Downs representative squads
throughout the year.
The U14 & U15 teams battled manfully throughout the Darling
Downs Club Competition despite being quite out numbered by
the other clubs.
U16 & U17
The U16/17 team made the semi finals of the Darling Downs
Competition; a momentous achievement underpinned by the
selection of nine boys in the Darling Downs Schoolboys side.
12 LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
NETBALL
U13
The Open girls netball team participated in the Open Warwick Ladies
competition on Monday evenings at WIRAC. Despite the loss of a
substantial number of representative players from 2014, the team
gained invaluable experience and look set to be a highly competitive
team in 2016. Significant thanks should go to Rebecca Horne and
Estie Wiid for their guidance of this programme in 2015.
The Under 15 and Under 13 teams had very successful seasons
reaching the grand finals of their respective divisions within the
Toowoomba Netball Association, with the under 15 girls winning
their grand final.
The under 10/12 were also successful in this competition despite
narrowly missing out on the finals. Congratulation to Giorgia
Brennan for her selection in the Darling Downs representative
team. The intention in 2016 is that with the exception of inter school
fixtures, all netball participation will occur within Warwick.
U10 & U12
U15
HOCKEY
The re-invigoration of the hockey programme occurred in 2015.
A mixed Opens Team was entered from the College. The team
competed in the Warwick mixed competition on Tuesday nights.
And while the team didn’t make the final, its presence in the
competition was enthusiastically welcomed by the Warwick
community. Significant representatives from the College included
Taniesha Southeron, Renee Judd and Kate Sprott. The College
looks forward to a strengthening of the hockey programme in
2016 including the addition of a junior mixed team in the Saturday
morning competition.
Where country values inspire excellence
13
ATHLETICS RESULTS
Senior School
Age Champions
Age Champions, Runner Up and Individual Prizes
P.F.A. Cup
Girls 13 yrs Champion: Amelia Meek
Runner up: Kira Holmes
Phil Doyle Trophy
Open Boys 1500m Fastest Time:
Matthew Whittaker
Douglas Trophy
Boys 13 yrs Champion: Nick Cave
Runner up: Samuel Proudlove
Godfrey Watson Memorial Trophy
Senior Boys Long Distance Aggregate
(800m, 1500m, 3000m)
Darcy Meek
P.F.A.
Girls 14 yrs Champion: Tshinta Kendall
Runner up: Renee Judd
R.C. Esther Cup
Boys 14 yrs Champion: Toby Gilmore
Runner Up: Mitchell Bourke
H.M. Green Cup
Girls 15 Yrs Champion:
Jasmine Alexanderson
Runner up: Kathleen Keogh
Dorothy Hamilton Trophy
Senior Girls Sprint Champion:
Emily Bass
Crombie Trophy
Senior Boys Sprint Champion:
Matthew Whittaker
Gail Imhoff Trophy
Senior Girls Field Events Champion:
Eloise Wiles
Harold Marlton Cup
Boys 15 yrs Champion: Jacob Stiles
Runner up: Samuel Maiore
Bruce Pyke Trophy
Senior Boys Field Events Champion:
Arnie Briel
Phillipa Filmer Trophy
Girls 16 yrs Champion: Eloise Wiles
Runner up: Grace Fender
Kay Reardon Trophy
Interclan Relay Champions: Leslie
Pacholke Cup
Boys 16 Yrs Champion: Arnie Briel
Runner up: Darcy Meek
Fletcher Trophy
Girls 17 Yrs & Over Champion: Emily Bass
Runner up: Eden Black
Dr. Blackburn Cup
Boys 17 Yrs & Over Champion:
Matthew Whittaker
Runner up: Dominic Casey-Lee
Cruikshank Trophy
Open Girls 1500m Fastest Time:
Emily Bass
Rosemary Grieve Cup
Interclan Field Events: Mackay
Mutch Trophy
Girls Interclan Champions: Mackay
Scott Rundle Cup
Boys Interclan Champions: Macinnes
Staff Shield
Aggregate for Interclan Athletics
(boys & girls)
Mackay Champion Clan: 1841
Macinnes: 1658
Leslie: 1597
Cameron: 1230.50
Middle School
Junior School
Mackay: 556
Leslie: 550
Cameron: 512
Macinnes: 452
Cameron: 259
Macinnes: 173
Leslie: 170
Mackay: 170
14 LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
9 years girls Olivia Macdonald and runner up: Clancy Armitage-Kenway
9 years boys Sam Wainwright and runner up: Percy Kruger
10 years girls Lucy Bourke and runner up: Erin Keogh
10 years boys Daniel Shepherd and runner up: Max Henningsen
11 years girls Niamh Fender and runner up: Chloe Wainwright and Sahna Bramich
11 years boys Max Keable and runner up: Mac Mayall
12 years girls Ruby King and runner up: Alix Weatherstone
12 years boys Will Gilmore and runner up: Patrick Swift
Records
9 Years
Girls 80m
Boys 80m Girls 200m
Boys 200m
Boys High Jump
Girls High Jump
Boys Long Jump
Girls Long Jump
15.01 sec 12.58sec
38.60sec
35.41 sec
1.02m
1.02m
3.20m
2.81m
Clancey Armitage-Kenway
Samuel Wainwright
Olivia Macdonald
Samuel Wainwright
Bryce Zerner
Olivia Macdonald
Samuel Wainwright
Olivia Macdonald
10 Years
Girls 100m Girls 200m
High Jump
Girls Shot Put
Girls Long Jump
Girls Discus
15.16sec
31.24sec
1.10m
8.34m
3.12m
18.44m
Lucy Bourke
Lucy Bourke
Lucy Bourke
Lucy Bourke
Lucy Bourke
Lucy Bourke
Age 11
Girls 100m Girls Long Jump
16.10sec
3.45m Chloe Wainwright
Sahna Bramich
Age 12
Girls 100m Boys Shot Put
Boys Discus
15.08sec
9.8m
35.71
Ruby King
Will Gilmore
Will Gilmore
14 years
Girls Javelin High Jump Shot put
20.09m
1.50m 7.3m
Tshinta Kendall
Tshinta Kendall
Tshinta Kendall
15 Years
Girls Shot Put Boys 100m 7.85m 12.05sec Jasmine Alexanderson
Samuel Maiore
17/18 years
Girls 100m 13.19 sec Emily Bass
PAST STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
In 2015 the
College
Past
S t u d e n t
weekend
saw
a very positive
roll up to the
end of year PSA
activities. The
day began with
over 120 people
attending
the
BBQ on Pipers Knoll for lunch and 230
seated for dinner on the Saturday night.
I must comment that it was fantastic
to see such a strong attendance at the
Church service at the Chapel on Sunday;
this year was the strongest crowd in
the time I have been attending in some
9 years. This service is growing each
year with much thanks to Mary Lowe
(nee Warren).
Two of our board members were greatly
missed this year and sadly it was due
to ill health in both cases, Jane Skelton
(nee Miller) and Bonnie Locke (nee
Batterham). To Bonnie and Jane please
get well soon.
In 2016 we will be attempting to have a
number of events for the PSA through
the year, starting in Brisbane early in
the University year and hopefully later
in the year in Toowoomba as well as a
Gala Ball in Brisbane mid Winter. We will
keep you posted.
I would like to congratulate Bill Stuart
who joined the PSA Board this year as
a new Director.
We are still struggling to get new
directors on the Board of the PSA.
Remember this is your alma mater.
This association only exists because of
you, so please come along and join, it’s
amazing how much fun you can have.
If you have any interest at all please
don’t hesitate to give me a call on 0400
602 777 and come along to our next
meeting on 28th February 2016 to get a
feel for what goes on.
Again I acknowledge the great support
we enjoy from our College Principal, Mr
Simon Shepherd as well as the great
help from Judi Haidley. Without their
support and eternal enthusiasm, none
of the above would happen.
Peter Campbell
PSA President
REUNION DINNER 2016
SCOTS PGC College invites all past students
and staff to attend the annual reunion
weekend on Saturday October 22 and
Sunday October 23, 2016.
Saturday 22nd October 2016
Each year the College holds the Past
Student Dinner in the Des Davey Dining
Hall. It is always an enjoyable night with
Past Students from other years holding
their get togethers at the same time.
12:30pm BBQ Lunch Pipers’ Knoll (charge applies)
Our organising committee is keen for you,
your partner, and any other past students
you know, to return to the College and
renew old friendships.
RSVP: Friday 30th September 2016
Tickets can be purchased by booking
through www.trybooking.com/172502
If you require assistance please do not
hesitate to contact Judi Haidley 4666 9816
or email [email protected]
60 years on
30 years on
55 years on
25 years on
50 years on
20 years on
45 years on
10 years on
1956 1986
1961 1991
1966 1996
1971 2006
40 years on
5 years on
1976 2011
10:00amAGM Past Students’ Association
(Resource Centre)
2:00pm Conducted tours of Oxenham and
Locke Street Campuses
6:00pmReunion Dinner, Des Davey
Dining Hall Oxenham St Campus.
$60 (pre-pay by 30th September).
Sunday 23rd October 2016
9:30am Past Students’ Chapel Service
and Morning Tea, College Chapel.
PSA Life Memberships
Year Left College
1918 – 1949
1950 – 1959
1960 – 1969
1970 – 1979
1980 – 1989
1990 – 1999
2000 – 2009
2010 – 2019
Fee Payable
Nil
$ 50
$ 70
$100
$110
$130
$140
$150
The above sliding scale provides a good
opportunity for past students to take out
Life Membership. All payments to PSA
Secretary Mr Jim Muir please.
If you are unable to attend the dinner (and you
have pre-paid) your payment will be gratefully
received as a donation.
HISTORY OF COLLEGE
MARRIAGES – HELP NEEDED
PGC will celebrate its centenary in 2018 and
SCOTS in 2019 so it is time to start collating
details of marriages which have occurred
between past students. It is important
to record the maiden name of ladies, full
details of marriage, respective dates of
attendance at Colleges and any deceased
details, if applicable.
The celebrations will soon arrive so please
send details as soon as possible to:
Tom Edmistone PO Box 261
Yeppoon Qld 4703
Email: [email protected]
Searching for information on who was
DeConlay House Captains for the years
of 1943, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1979, 1982.
Please contact Judi on 07 4666 9816 or
email [email protected]
Where country values inspire excellence
15
PAST STUDENT REUNION 2015
30 Years on – Class of 1985
Harry Douglas, Helen Stumm, Kevin Teys and Alec Peden
Ian Pidgeon
5 Years on – Class of 2010
Mary Lowe and Joan Betts
Mark and Desiree Walker
Brian Elder
60 Years On – SCOTS Class of 1955
John and Marion Backhouse
40 Years On – Class of 1975
16 LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
Greg and Margaret Sprott
Elizabeth and John Sloss
Dorinda and
Ennis Schwennesen
50 Years on – PGC Class of 1965
20 Years on – Class of 1995
50 Years on – SCOTS Class of 1965
55 Years on – SCOTS Class of 1960
45 Years On – Class of 1970
55 Years On – PGC Class of 1960
Where country values inspire excellence
17
ELYSIA ROACH (2009-2012) was born in
Hong Kong, and moved to Australia in
2009 to finish high school at SCOTS PGC
College. This year she graduates with a
Bachelor of Photography from Griffith
University, Queensland College of Art.
Her multicultural experience, having
lived in Asia and Australia, has enhanced
her appreciation for the diversity in the
world, which is reflected through her
passion for photography.
Elysia’s
photography
encompasses fashion,
portraits, weddings
families, maternity,
babies and events.
Her work is available
to view on her website
www.elysiaroach.com
CENTRAL QUEENSLAND REUNION
ROCKHAMPTON – 9TH May, 2015
College Principal Mr Simon Shepherd was
welcomed as special guest and spoke
of plans for the College. Guest Speaker
JOHN MUIR (LM 1948-54) who has been
associated with the College for most of his
life including 20 years as Chairman of the
College Council gave a detailed history of
the College from its founding in 1919. Long-standing PSA Life Members included Rob
ARMSTRONG (49-52), Peter COOPER (61-65) and wife Nerida (Markey) COOPER (62-66),
Ailsa (McKenzie) KELLY (39-42), the oldest present at 89 years young. Others attending
(all LMs) were Patricia (Gall) CRAIG (64-66), Tom EDMISTONE (46-51), David ELLIOT (4349), Darryl HUTTON (49-52), Alistair KENNEDY (47-52), Jack KING (44-50), Len LESTER
(63-66), Kellie (Turnbull) McGOWRAN (87-88), Heather (Drake) McLEAN, (51-52), Rod
PERRETT (59-63), Mary (Pedersen) SEIERUP (47-48), Tony TAIT (48-52) and Carolyn
(Crust) TURNBULL (62-64). Thanks to spouses who attended and to Rob Armstrong and
Nev Seierup for OWN poetry presentations.
DONALD GEORGE ALBERT PFINGST (LM 1943 – 48)
TAHLIA FATNOWNA (2011-2013) is a
first year QUT student from the remote
island of Groote Eylandt in the Gulf
of Carpentaria. Helping Tahlia attend
university is the QUT annual Tim Fairfax
AC Learning Potential Fund Scholarship
awarded to financially disadvantaged
students from rural and regional
Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Tahlia was one of 24 aspiring young
students to be awarded the $5,000
scholarship by Mr Fairfax. Tahlia is
undertaking a double degree in Creative
Industries and Human Services and
hopes to return one day to her Northern
Territory roots and practise art therapy.
Tahlia says “Art therapy is about using
visual art and music to express yourself.
Research has shown that art therapy
is really effective when working with
Indigenous communities and youth”.
Tahlia said the financial support the
Scholarship provided took a lot of worry
out of relocating to Brisbane.
18 LION & THISTLE DECEMBER 2015
Don was born in Warwick on 12th June, 1933 and grew up on
the river at Westcourt near Talwood catching yellow belly
and learning to ride a horse. Don attended SCOTS from
1943 to 1948 and was a member of the swimming team
in his last year. He also participated in cricket, athletics
and boxing. On leaving SCOTS, Don attended Gatton
College before undertaking National Service as was the
requirement in those days. At age 19, Don went to manage
“Goondulla” north of Weengallon, a large undeveloped
property and lived in a small cottage. During this time
Don met Pamela McCasker who was to become his life’s
partner, marrying in 1957. He continued to develop
“Goondulla” turning it into a Merino Stud. When things were tough, Don shot kangaroos to
skin and sell hides. Two sons, Ian and Richard added to the family. Following the death of
Pam’s parents in 1966, the family moved to “Yarrawonga”. Don introduced buffel grass to
the area and with innovative thinking introduced Brahman bulls and Hereford crosses which
later crossed with Charolais to produce heavy boned, short haired beasts.
In 1979 Don purchased “Woondulla”near Talwood hoping the rich river flats would be a
great base for his Merino stud. Floods caused chaos so he began developing an irrigation
farm which thrived into a successful cotton operation. He also developed residential
property in Goondiwindi. In 1994, Don lost Pam after a short battle with cancer. He sold
the family property and bought a smaller property near Texas. He was fortunate to rekindle
a friendship with Fay Kingston from St George and they married in 1997. They settled in
Goondiwindi and Don enjoyed bowls, travel and happy times with friends and family. Don
will be sadly missed but leaves a legacy in his sons and his grandchildren of hard work,
innovation and integrity. Don passed away on 4th May, 2015.
WITH SYMPATHY
The PSA extends sincere condolences to families
and friends of the following past students
BELLIGOI Margaret (nee COSTELLO) (1939–43)
BUTLER Robert (1967–72)
CLARKE Delyse (nee KING) (1952–57)
ELSEY Catherine (nee FREY) (1942–48)
GIBSON Donald Roy (1942–1946)
HALL Isabell (MAYNARD nee REID) (1939-43)
HAMILTON Thomas (1943–46)
HUNGERFORD Gayle (nee CUNNINGTON) (1950)
MARSDEN Shirley (nee GILMOUR) (1940–44)
PETFIELD Bruce (1954–57)
GAMBLE Aveline (nee WATSON) (1931)
WHITE Raymond (1945–47)
PAST STAFF MEMBER
Mrs Maureen Shearing worked at
SCOTS PGC College for 16 years in
the Finance Department and then
in 1988 joined the College Cadet
unit before being promoted to
Officer Commanding in 1996.
JOTTINGS
Laura Gilbride (nee GEITZ 2001-2005) is
the Official Ambassador for the Wellcamp
Airport Corporation and ‘face of the
Brisbane Ekka’ whilst she maintains her
busy schedule as Captain of the Australian
Diamonds Netballers.
Jocelyn Gedge (nee WISE 48-49) displayed
some of her watercolour works at the
Logan Artists Association’s Able Gallery in
June. Her subjects included shadows on
the pavement, family portraits, dogs and
several pieces using dyes on silk.
Florence Slattery was recently honoured by
the Warwick Rose City Probus Club at age
99 following many years of membership.
Florence first moved to Warwick in 1941
and is also fondly remembered as a former
SCOTS PGC teacher.
Sloss Brothers
A 139-year old family property near
Goondiwindi has cut its first fleece in two
decades thanks to the efforts of three
brothers – George, Bob (LM55-56) and
Ron (60-63). It was a family affair when
property owner George enlisted the help
of his two older siblings, Ron and Bob –
an experienced shearer and wool classer,
respectively, as they shore 200 weaners on
the family property, Allanbank. It came after
George reintroduced sheep to diversify
from beef. George is the sixth generation to
own and work on Allanbank.
Greg Finlay (LM81-85) leads a busy life
including his role as President of the Texas
Show Society.
John Finlay (1987-91) was Piper at the
Bonshaw Public School Anzac Day Service
for students with RAAF personnel also in
attendance.
Tony Tait (LM1948-52) was one of the
singers at Sing Australia Choir on hand
to lend their voices to the ANZAC Dawn
Service at Texas and the morning service at
Yelarbon.
Graham Strang (1989-94) is a member of
Darling Downs Riders, a large group sharing
their love of bike riding and raising money
for charity.
Cr.Bill Cahill (1979-80) was one of the
participants in the Philippines Independence
Day Festivities celebrated in Toowoomba
Town Hall.
Unlike his brothers who’ve been in the wool
industry their entire working lives, George
always worked off-farm to support the
operation, running a successful real estate
business in Goondiwindi. Wool-classer Bob,
74, didn’t have far to travel for the historic
event as his block adjoins Allanbank.
Shearer Ron, 70, travelled from his property
at Yelarbon to put some long-awaited runs
on the board at the family farm. Despite all
three brothers reaching the retirement age,
they all love working in their desired fields,
keeping happy and healthy.
PAST STUDENTS DESCEND ON WORLD PIPE
BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS
Amelia Holmes (1999-2010), Rylie Douglas
(2002-2014), Will Schultz (2006-2011), Nicholas
Tomkins (2005-2010) and Matthew Chalk (19972009) all performed at the World Pipe Band
Championships in Glasgow. Some 230 bands
from 16 nations such as Canada, the US, Oman,
New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, took
part in The World Pipe Band Championships with
over 8000 pipers and drummers competing.
Rylie (Piper), Nick (Piper), Amelia (snare
Drummer) and Will (snare Drummer) played
for St Andrew’s Brisbane and Matthew Chalk
(Tenor Drummer) played for Pipeband Club
(based in Sydney). They were able to catch up
and all had a wonderful time.
Ellen Goulter (1997-2006) married Daniel
Moloney on 28th March 2015 at the
Stanthorpe Uniting Church. A reception was
held at Varias Restaurant – The Queensland
College of Wine and Tourism, Stanthorpe.
Ellen was attended by her sister Megan
Mauch (nee Goulter 1996-2000) and piped
down the aisle by brother Scott Goulter
(1997-2002). Her father, Ian Goulter (19651968) gave the bride away. Good friend
Alyssa Smith (2002-2005) was guest.
Barbara and Alexander
Gwynne (1945-47)
visited the College in
September
Geoffrey Lang (1983-1986)
past student and current
parent met up with past
staff member, Leith
Hackwood at Dalby
Linda Auwi (1987-1992) and Bertha Auwi (1990-94)
with current student and brother Mellich Au
BIRTHS
Mark and Megan Mauch (nee Goulter 19962000) welcomed their son William Stewart
Mauch into the world on 21st August 2015. A brother for
Caitlin and Annabelle; nephew for Scott Goulter (1997-2002)
and Ellen Moloney (nee Goulter 1997-2006); third grandchild
for Jill and Ian Goulter (1965-1968); and eighth grandchild
for Lloyd and Desley Mauch (nee Cran 1965-1968).
Mitchell and Samantha Farley
(nee
Kemsley
2011-2013)
welcome the arrival of their
first child, daughter, Riley-Rose
Abigail Farley Born October 6th,
2015. Niece for Stuart Kemsley
(2009-2012).
Stephen
and
Skye
Ripphausen (2003-2005
nee Glasser) welcome
their second daughter,
Amelia Cate, born October
28, 2015 weighing 4kgs.
Sister for Charlotte.
Callum and Natasha Skinner (2001-2005 nee Glasser) welcome their third son,
Archie Patrick James Skinner born October 26, 2015 weighing in 10lb 4oz. Brother
to Mackenzie (5) and Harrison (2).
INFORMATION CONCERNING PAST STUDENTS
PLEASE SEND TO THE CONTACTS BELOW:
Change of Address, Deaths
Jim Muir (Secretary)
33 Disraeli Street, Indooroopilly, Qld 4068
T. 07 3378 2490
E. [email protected]
Births, Marriages, Articles and Jottings
for Lion and Thistle
Tom Edmistone
PO Box 261, Yeppoon 4703
E. [email protected]
For more Past Students information
and to view all obituaries in full visit
the Past Students website
www.scotspgcpsa.com.au
Where country values inspire excellence
19
Co Educational Day & Boarding, Prep to Year 12
www.scotspgc.com.au