Spring summer flyer 2015 16

Issue 11 Spring/Summer 2015

flyer

DISCOVER the DIFFERENCE!St Margaret’s

Issue 11 Spring/Summer 2015

Flyer Issue 11, Spring/Summer 2015 Principal: Ros Curtis • Editor and Journalist: Wendy Johnston • Journalists: Jo Stone, Fiona Heyman Contributors: Victoria Nikolova, Bronwyn Perry, Vicki Strid, Luanne Wishart • Graphic Designer: Pam Smiles Photography: Victoria Nikolova, Michael Marston, Jo Stone, Wendy Johnston Printing: Screen Offset Printing

ContentsFrom the Principal 03Research Project 04Mentoring early career teachers 05Academic Flyers Program 06Organic garden 08A day out in Maggies' Garden 09An innovative approach to learning 10Some of the best minds in the state 11Sleek geeks' success 11A look inside a law career 12St Margaret’s College 14Global exchange a family affair 15Canada exchange 2015 15

Ponytail Project 16Philanthropist of the Year 16Home away from homelessness 17Celebrating a century 17Fundraising for Nepal 17Longman opening 18History of boarding house names 18Open your eyes to the world 19School’s rowing history no smooth sailing 20Sports roundup 20Patron connects past and present 22St Margaret's Day Run 22A St Margaret’s Mystery 23

100 year anniversary service 23The Arts 24Meet the Anderson sisters 26Donated art opens minds 27The Mayo collection grows 27Reach for the stars! 27Winter Wonderland Ball 28St Margaret’s Race Day 292015 Reunions 30The Eton Society 31Sister June Ruth SSA 31St Margaret’s Foundation 32St Margaret’s networking events take flight 34

From the Principal

Issue 11 Spring/Summer 2015 St Margaret’s Flyer 03

There are six goals in the St Margaret’s Strategic Plan – Academic Success, Empowering Young Women, Outstanding Staff, Broadening Horizons, Connecting Community and Inspiring Faith. These six goals provide the context for many of the enriching activities undertaken by our school community, some of which are highlighted in this edition of the Flyer.

St Margaret’s is a unique and interesting place. It is more than a school – it is the focus of our community, where a wonderful sense of belonging is promoted through student endeavour. Connections to the past are celebrated and the vision for the future is evident in our programs; we are focused on challenge and the growth of our students. There is a warmth, informed by our Faith, which pervades all we do here.

The school is both traditional and aspirational; this blend ensures that our school values form the foundation of our future thinking. Our aspirations ensure there is innovation and energy in all undertakings. Both add to the certainty and the joy of the St Margaret’s experience.

The school is also the product of philanthropic thinking.

The school began 120 years ago when the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent wanted to improve the health and wellbeing of young women and children, to make their futures better through the power of education. The school has grown through their consistent work and

through the hard work of other men and women – parents and past students who gave of their time, their expertise and their money to help fund the infrastructure at the school and the financial assistance bursaries we offer both our boarding and day students. Legacies have been left – either bestowed through bequests or through the generosity of those parents and students as they pass through the school.

Parents and Old Girls have the opportunity to engage with the school at many points – through their daughters’ activities, support groups, the P&F Association, the Professional Women’s Network series, the Foundation and the Old Girls’ Association. It is hoped their touchpoints have been positive experiences, so much so, that they wish them to endure and to be experienced by future generations, perhaps even by their daughters or granddaughters. This edition of the Flyer provides feedback to our community about the success of the 2015 giving program, to support either the Building Fund or the Scholarship Fund. Thank you to those who contributed this year and for seeing the value of a St Margaret’s education and for your contribution to the future of the school and its students.

Ros Curtis Principal MEd(Leadership&Mgt), MLitSt, BA(Hons), DipEd, ASDA, FACE, FACEL, FAIM, GAICD

04 St Margaret’s Flyer Issue 11 Spring/Summer 2015

Over the past 18 months, the Mathematics Faculty has been engaged in a self-directed action research project, which has been professionally supported by Independent Schools Queensland and funded by the Federal Government. St Margaret’s was one of 23 schools across Queensland selected to participate in this ‘Teachers as Researchers’ (TAR) initiative.

St Margaret’s research focus developed from teachers’ frustrations on two fronts: the perception by some students they could not achieve in maths; and an assessment regime that seemed to perpetuate these negative beliefs. Emerging research in the field of neuroscience is revealing that the brain has the capacity to develop new connections and even grow mass. Thus, the fixed ability paradigm some students uphold that they cannot achieve in maths must be challenged.

This research has also discovered a strong link between learning and emotions. Different emotions generate different chemicals in the brain that either inhibit or enhance learning. Through the course of the TAR project, St Margaret’s researchers also found a close alignment between these emotional dimensions of neuroscience and the work done by Carolyn Dweck on fixed and growth mindsets.

Figure 1 (above) is a graphical representation of the Mathematics Faculty’s approach to teaching and learning based on the research undertaken in these areas. At the centre are four emotions – confidence, hope, curiosity and motivation. While these are not the only emotions involved in learning, they are considered to be the driving emotions. The goal is to cultivate these emotions in students so they can drive, sustain and reflect on their own learning and, through this process, develop a growth mindset and become a powerful learner.

One of the pedagogical initiatives proven to be a successful catalyst in developing a growth mindset is second chance testing, replacing the traditional single test model, which offers limited opportunity for the students to learn from their errors and improve their knowledge and understanding.

“It gives you a chance to fill in any gaps in your learning and then you can try to achieve at a higher level in the second test,” says Year 9 student and aspiring architect Xanthe Lowe-Brown.

Laura Gatenby, also in Year 9, says: “It lifts you. Getting a good mark makes you think ‘I can do this’ and you go to the next lesson ready to learn and prove to yourself you can get it right.

“I love maths but when you get one shot at a test and you get a bad mark you might think ‘This isn’t for me, I’m no good at it’. Getting a chance to improve your mark, even if it is just by ten per cent, gives you more confidence,” Laura said.

A strong emphasis on reflection is a key feature of this two test system. It has long been acknowledged that a necessary component for improvement at any level is the capacity of individuals to reflect effectively on their work and competencies. The system developed by the Mathematics Faculty not only provides time for reflection, but also provides a framework which helps the students learn how to reflect more effectively.

Head of the Mathematics Faculty Ms Vicki Strid said she is really excited where this research is taking the school.

“Students in general appear to have a much more positive approach to maths and are prepared to challenge themselves rather than say ‘I can’t do it’,” she said.

Staff in the Mathematics Faculty have anecdotally noted an increased level of application and focus from the students. Their observations are also supported by a survey of Year 9 students where:

• 70% stated they were working harder at mathematics because of the resit test

• 93% stated the resit test system had helped them become more confident in maths

• 88% stated the resit test had helped them develop a better understanding of maths; half of this group believed it had also helped them master the topics already covered.

“Our ultimate goal is to get students to associate increased effort with improved results, so they can see that they are the drivers of their own success. As students come to this realisation and develop appropriate organisational skills and work efficacy, we believe they will become very powerful learners and this is a good thing for all aspects of their life,” Ms Strid said.

Action research expert Dr Margaret Fletcher (PHD), who has been consulting with the TAR group, believes this is an important and exciting time for the St Margaret’s Mathematics Faculty.

“The evidence suggests that this action research project is making a measurable difference for many students. It is not just improving teaching and learning, but it is also changing the learning culture in the mathematics classroom,” Dr Fletcher said.

Research Project challenges traditional practices and beliefs in mathematics

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SUCCESS THROUGH EFFORT

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Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to success is always to try just one more time. Thomas Edison

Figure 1

Mentoring early career teachers


In 2014, a group of dedicated St Margaret’s teachers designed a comprehensive mentoring program for Early Career Teachers (ECT), which has been successfully implemented at the school this year as a pilot program.

The need for an ECT program was identified after recent studies revealed almost 50% of Australia’s teaching graduates were leaving the field of education within the first five years.

Deputy Principal Kim Cohen said with the exodus of ECT reaching critical levels, preventative measures were urgently needed.

“It’s imperative that schools address the situation by ensuring ECT are receiving the support and encouragement they need, as they embark on their teaching journey,” said Mrs Cohen.

Mentoring new teachers has proven to be a strong factor in retention, which also builds self-confidence and the ability to develop strategies to match students’ needs.

“Schools need to take a long-term approach to building a culture that provides an environment in which all teachers can improve their practice and thus student outcomes,” said Mrs Cohen.

The St Margaret’s ECT mentoring program is just one of the strategies the school has put in place to provide students with outstanding staff, one of the key priorities of the current strategic plan.

Mentors are given the chance to support graduate teachers with their transition into full time work, while reflecting on personal teaching practice.

The Head of Teaching and Learning – Years 5 and 6, Mr Micheal Crowe, said the ECT program focuses on educative mentoring that allows for both members of the relationship to achieve professional growth and was a great initiative to be involved in.

“This form of mentoring allows not only the mentee to reach competency levels, but also facilitates continued growth for the mentor,” said Mr Crowe.

Although the program is still relatively new, both mentors and mentees are starting to see the benefits.

Current mentee Tahlia Butler said the opportunity to engage in the mentoring program was invaluable professional development.

“This process promotes regular reflection and deep conversation, which I believe is already accelerating my understanding of teaching and learning practices,” she said.

The pilot has provided many insights into the potential benefits a program like this will eventually provide. With reflection and feedback, it is expected that the mentoring program can be developed into a sophisticated tool that will allow graduate teachers to expand their knowledge of their profession and hone their practices, fast tracking their effectiveness in the classroom, and, most importantly, keeping their job satisfaction levels high.

As a graduate I have felt so supported and enriched at this school in 2015 and I know that I can attribute a lot of my confidence to the support I have received from my mentor teacher. Being able to strike a balance between supporting an ECT and yet still allowing them to feel recognised and valued professionally is quite difficult. As a teacher within this program I can definitely say that I have felt both supported and encouraged to take risks and to excel in the best possible way. I hope to continue in such a beneficial program in the future.Sarah Flamsteed Primary Teacher

I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in the mentoring program for my own professional growth as well as providing beginning teachers, such as Sarah, a helping hand to success.Tamara Garvey Early Childhood Teacher

Sarah Flamsteed (left) with mentor Tamara Garvey


St Margaret’s Academic Flyers Program creates opportunities to extend high-achieving students in Years 7 to 10 beyond the curriculum in English, humanities, mathematics and science (including STEM - science, technology, engineering and maths). It sits alongside the school’s Performance Flyers Program, as part of the school’s commitment to providing enrichment opportunities across a range of areas.

Students selected for the Academic Flyers Program are withdrawn from school throughout the year to participate in extension activities and embrace intellectual challenges in workshops and advanced projects, both at St Margaret’s and external venues.

Since the implementation of the program last year, students’ interest in STEM subjects in particular has increased with enrolments in physics and maths C on the rise.

Science Selected students were invited to take on the role of scientists to solve problems relating to the natural world in one-day workshops that challenged scientific knowledge and experience.

Year 7s extended their understanding of human movement physiology, while Year 8s were introduced to robotics, and used Littlebits robotics components to design and construct an electronic pet.

In collaboration with the Science Flyers Program, high achieving Year 9 students are also able to study a semester of STEM as an elective, exploring the practical aspects of flight. In Year 10, students move on to further develop skills in chemistry and physics, based on repeated test work and design improvements, which aids their transition into senior years.

Academic Flyers Program

“The challenges started off quite easy to help us learn the basics of robotics, and then we progressed on to harder ones, such as pushing big blocks out of a certain area without the robot going outside the barrier by using a colour sensor. We used the Lego to help in the challenges by building large bumpers or long arms. In the end there were no winners or losers, but we all had fun building and refining our robots.” Year 7 student.

Mathematics St Margaret’s identifies maths as a gateway subject to all STEM-based careers and aims to empower and inspire students to participate in higher levels of mathematical thinking. The Mathematics Flyer Program has a particular focus on the future, and programming is a skill that is predicted to be a must have for not only emerging careers but the transformation of current careers. The top 25 to 30 students in each year level spend a day at QUT participating in workshops that utilise different types of programming.

“The QUT program for the Year 7 Flyers complemented our school's approach to real-world problem solving in mathematics beautifully,” said Year 7 mathematics teacher Mrs Nan Dodd.

“The girls learned to program a Lego vehicle to complete tasks that became progressively more difficult. This required them to take measurements, make calculations, design their program, test the effects and then refine their ideas, persevering until the task was successfully completed,” said Mrs Dodd.

Year 9s focus on programming, while Year 10s are exposed to new technologies for logging data in the QUT labs.


EnglishStudents with a special interest in classic and contemporary literature, writing and literary analysis are chosen by their English teachers to participate in the English Flyers Program. In 2015, students in Years 7 and 8 participated in a creative writing workshop, which focused on the mystery genre. In a series of workshops, the girls explored various writing techniques and then put their newly-found knowledge into practice by writing their own mystery stories.

Year 8 student Natasha Licina said: “Having a day devoted to learning skills about creative writing helped in many aspects of English, as it pushed me to think further about characters and creative writing. I found it interesting to hear the creative perspectives of all the different English teachers and to pick up various things from each of their teaching styles. This day was beneficial not just for creative writing, but to learn many other English skills such as character analysis, writing style analysis and writing styles.”

Year 9 English Flyers partake in a series of workshops with a focus on creative writing and in-depth literary analysis to develop a deeper understanding, while Year 10 students can study a semester of English extension as an elective subject to refine their writing in the lead up to senior English.

Geography Select Year 10 students participated in #spatialrealworld at the State Library, which is a new initiative run by the Queensland Government. The day included CEO of Spatial Industries Business Association Richard Simpson providing students with examples of how geography and spatial industries are influencing daily life. Mr Simpson discussed everything from the designing of heart valves using 3D imaging, and augmented reality software to plan for infrastructure upgrades around the city, to the design of avatars and Oscar-winning applications in the movie industry. It became clear from this presentation that thinking spatially is a key aspect to many jobs in the future.

In another session, Professor Stuart Phinn from The University of Queensland spoke about how digital tools in geography are changing the world. This overlapped with the work students had been doing in class.

Year 10 student Alana Cameron-Lyon said she certainly learnt how geography connects not just with people and places, but with technology.

“I can now see real-world applications for my study that I wasn’t aware of before,” Alana said.

Deputy Principal Kim Cohen said students who participate in the Academic Flyers Program have an opportunity to engage in critical assessment and high order thinking skills in an environment outside of the curriculum.

“They are engaged in deep learning and thus inspired to look for and conquer challenging problems in and outside the classroom,” Mrs Cohen said.


A new horticultural venture in the primary school is not only providing a valuable platform for learning about sustainability, it is also teaching students practical skills for life.

Generous sponsorship from St Margaret’s parents and owners of Barambah Organics Ian and Jane Campbell allowed the primary school to establish an extensive organic garden, which now borders Churchill Lawn.

In just a few short months, Maggies' Organic Garden has expanded to include a compost system, water tank, worm farm and a mosaic bird bath decorated by the girls. The initial six garden beds were so successful growing a range of produce that an additional three beds have since been planted.

At the launch of the garden in June, Farmer Ian from Barambah Organics said that having a garden is an asset to a school, providing students with the opportunity to learn about everything from art to economics.

The launch of Maggies' Organic Garden also coincided with the launch of ‘Maggies' Garden Journal’ – an online blog that includes updates of the garden’s progress with photos and videos of planting, harvesting and cooking.

Primary teacher Katie Bryant believes students learn best about sustainability through hands-on, sensory experiences that reinforce classroom teaching. Maggies' Organic Garden also works as the focal point for the school’s broader sustainability program.

“We could explain in the classroom how food scraps can break down and provide nutrients, but when the students ‘feed’ the worms in the farm and make ‘tea’ to put on the garden, the learning connections become very apparent,” said Ms Bryant.

Ms Bryant said the most exciting part of Maggies' Garden was the students’ mindsets. They appear highly engaged, are inquisitive, interested in each other’s observations and keen to learn and listen.

Organic garden harvests new learning experiences

I love listening to the girls’ comments while working in

the garden – they try out our new vocabulary words and

make maths comparisons about size, shape, growth rates and water volume.

Ms Bryant

Maggies' Garden Club was introduced in Term 3 for Prep and Years 1, 2 and 5 students, to teach them a wide range of skills such as watering plants, waste management, and the importance of recycling. The students also monitor garden growth and learn when and how to harvest, which opens up discussions about healthy eating and nutrition.

The Garden Club has also welcomed special guest St Margaret’s Patron Libby Black, who helped the students harvest and cut back the garden before cooking ‘san choy bow’ with the fresh produce.

Parent Sam Coleman, who runs food blog ‘Seasonal Table’ and has been a great help with the project, said she loves seeing the girls eager to ‘get in there’ and get their hands dirty in Maggies' Garden.

“I was totally overwhelmed at their enthusiasm and their desire to learn. Most importantly, the kids want to know where their food is coming from,” said Mrs Coleman.

“So much love and attention has gone into those garden beds, so I’m not surprised we are starting to harvest lovely greens for our school tuckshop and boarding house.”

Tuckshop chef Ian Garrioch said the produce he has received from Maggies' Garden is of the finest quality.

“We have been able to use everything in our salads, curries and stir fries, and look forward to seeing what fantastic things we are presented with in the future,” said Mr Garrioch.

A day out in Maggies' GardenIn collaboration with Organic Awareness Month, Maggies' Club Gardeners invited Prep to Year 2 Churchie boys to experience ‘A day out in Maggies' Garden’ and meet two very important guests – two-week old calves from Barambah Organics!

The students learnt about the connections between farming and dairy with Barambah Organics co-owner Jane Campbell, dug for treasure with pirates, got active on the tennis court, and exercised their creativity with organic produce and recycled goods. The students also had the fun task of naming the calves, now christened Milo and Bruce.

The Pre-Prep to Year 2 Maggies' Club Gardeners had such an enjoyable day that they made a thank you video for the Churchie boys, sharing how much fun they had vegetable printing, eating ‘yummy fruit skewers’, and marvelling at the ‘spectacular tomatoes’.

“Thank you to Churchie for visiting us!” – PP-2 Maggies' Club Gardeners



Head of Teaching and Learning - Years 5 and 6 Mr Michael Crowe has designed an innovative course that incorporates technology into everyday learning.

Blogs and fun, interactive multi-disciplinary projects are taking student engagement and enjoyment to a whole new level.

The projects encourage students to be curious and use real-life situations to solve problems. In turn, the students learn to adapt quickly and become analysers, critical thinkers and decision makers – developing skills for life and laying the foundations for deep learning.

“Innovation is not just about putting more technology in the classroom – it’s about changing the approaches to teaching so that students acquire the skills they need to thrive in the global economy,” said Mr Crowe.

One such project was ‘Row Row Row Your Boat’, which incorporated mathematics, geography and general knowledge.

Mr Crowe said Year 5 had to race around the world in a rowing boat, and there could only be one winner – but there was a lot more to it than that!

Before the rowing could commence, students had to initially figure out how fit the rowers would have to be, compare possible sponsors, weigh up the cost of essential equipment and map out their route over the shortest distance.

When the race began, the speed at which they could travel was determined by how well the students individually scored in a quiz at each stage of the race.

Parents were able to watch the fun unfold, with access to the class blog, which Mr Crowe said enabled them to engage at home with what their children were learning at school.

“I always say that if I can get families talking around the dinner table about the learning that has taken place in the classroom, then that represents real success,” said Mr Crowe.

One of the benefits to using the classroom blog as a learning tool is the ability for the girls to access core learning and be across the curriculum content prior to class. This enables Mr Crowe to go into greater depth in the classroom, which in turn heightens student engagement. In addition, access to this learning prior to and after the lesson, day and night, means that learning can occur at times most suitable to the student, and revision, when needed, is always accessible. Also, if girls miss a class through illness or co-curricular commitments, they can catch up easily.

There’s no doubt that The Digital Age is changing the way humans communicate, live and learn. The ability to adapt to these changes is where success lies for future generations of students – and it all starts here, in the classroom.

“Well-designed project work that incorporates cross curricular elements encourages students to acquire knowledge, while practising skills,” said Mr Crowe.

“These critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyse and develop opinions around the ‘bigger picture’, can allow us to create confident, capable, compassionate young women who are able to contribute to the global economy.”

An innovative approach to learning

Why do we cry when cutting an onion? A chef has made a complaint and identified the culprit in a police line-up. The two detectives investigate the crime, review the evidence and draw conclusions about the onion’s guilt and M.O. Find out the onion’s fate and how we can stop similar crimes in the future.

L to R: Sophie Howse, Georgie Gaspar, Tully Button, Hannah Campbell and Rosie Turnbull

Back row L to r: Maddie Swan, Alexi Baillie, Sophie Webster Front row L to R: Chiara Argelliez, Sienna Crockett, Kyle Yeo

Some of the best minds in the state


Nine teams of St Margaret’s primary girls competed against 281 Queensland schools in the Opti-MINDS Regional Challenge in August this year, communicating their knowledge of science and engineering in creative ways, with one team making it all the way to the state final.

Each team worked collaboratively over six weeks to solve open-ended challenges from Language Literature, Science Engineering or Social Sciences, and then presented to the judges at the end of the competition.

Our Year 4 Team 2 girls – Madeline Hignett, Maddie Swan, Alexi Baillie, Chiara Argelliez, Sophie Webster, Sienna Crockett and Kyle Yeo – won a prestigious Spirit of Opti-MINDS Award, given to the teams who display the values and aims of Opti-MINDS (to think, create and communicate).

St Margaret’s Team 9, comprising Year 6 students Sophie Howse, Tully Button, Georgie Gaspar, Hannah Campbell and Rosie Turnbull, won first prize in Science and Engineering, thus making the state final held at The University

of Queensland across one weekend in October. Here, they voiced their opinion on Sustainable Energy at a forum on the Saturday, then spent the Sunday representing St Margaret's and Brisbane North in the Division 1 section of the Science Engineering Challenge. Following a three hour preparation session, the girls presented their solution to the judges. They were awarded Honours for their long term and spontaneous solutions: a fantastic effort against competition from the leading regional teams in the state.

Head of Primary Angela Drysdale said she was impressed to see each of the girls present with such confidence and enthusiasm for their challenge.

“So many of the careers of the future will require a background a science, technology, engineering and maths – known as STEM. Early opportunities for engagement in these fields for our young enquiring minds will provide them with a good platform for the future, as will exposure to problem solving: a key 21st century skill for both learning and living,” Mrs Drysdale said

Sleek geeks' success Out of hundreds of entrants, Year 5 students Georgia (Gigi) Souyave-Murphy and Ella Woods won the University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize – Primary this year, with their creative short film, ‘Cry Stoppers’, which investigated the unpleasant effect that onions have on our eyes.

The prize recognises excellence in communicating scientific ideas in an engaging way that helps people to understand and learn about the concept without even realising!

Kim McKay AO, Executive Director and CEO of the Australian Museum, said that Gigi and Ella’s short film was not only a lot of fun, but also informative.

“Passionate, engaged schoolkids like these will form the next generation of Australian scientists,” she said.

Principal Ros Curtis said the school is very active in encouraging students to pursue the study of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) disciplines that will feature heavily in future jobs growth.

“We are very proud of the girls and know their video will spark the interest of young would-be scientists everywhere,” said Ms Curtis.

Scan this QR code to view the award winning video.

Photo Brendon Thorne/Getty Images


A look inside a law career

We have all heard the terminology ‘fake it till you make it’ or even ‘fake it till you become it’, but St Margaret’s students attending the law networking breakfast in July were advised to definitely ‘don’t fake it till you make it’ when striving to succeed in the law profession, and probably don’t look to Elle Woods or Judge Judy for an idea of what a law career might look like!

Three Old Girls who have pursued law careers offered to talk to current students about their study and career pathways to date – an opportunity upon which Head of Business and Technology Mrs Amanda Minotti was quick to seize.

Mrs Minotti said whether students had either a strong desire or vague thoughts about a career in law, it was important they hear from those already in the profession who could highlight the realities of a law career.

The women – Grace Mullins (2008), Caitlin McConnel (2007) and Priscilla Mackay (2008) – are three of the six St Margaret’s Old Girls who have been appointed as Judges' Associates in the Federal Court of Australia, or the Supreme or District Courts of Queensland, in the past two years, with another to be appointed to the High Court of Australia in 2016.

Priscilla Mackay is currently an Associate in the Federal Court. She said that legal studies at St Margaret’s had set a very good foundation for her law degree, as had her mooting activities. She graduated in 2008 with an OP 1 and studied a dual degree of a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts, with an extended major in International Relations. She did so at The University of Queensland on a full academic scholarship, for which she encouraged the girls to apply, saying most universities offer full or part scholarships.

A self-confessed ‘law nerd’, Priscilla said that as much as she loved all areas of law she studied, she still saw the need to set some clear goals to help motivate and steer herself through the long five and a half years of study. One of her goals was to graduate with First Class Honours and the University Medal, both of which she achieved. Needing a grade point average of six and above, she topped her class and graduated with a GPA of 6.75.

“This did not come easily,” she emphasised to the girls. “It required a lot of time and effort, many hours of reading and processing thousands of words, and pushing myself to achieve my best.”

All three Old Girls stressed the importance of working in an area of the law while studying. Priscilla worked and studied full time throughout her degrees, saying that university can be an insulated environment and the practice of law can be quite different to the study of it.

She encouraged the girls to think about working as a Judge’s Associate, which offers unique exposure to court procedure, the observation of highly trained barristers at work, and the requirement to perform high levels of research in relation to often very specific and novel points of law. She also pointed out the diverse career paths available in the field of law – from practising as a barrister, to working in a commercial firm, or specialising in international law, to becoming an academic or maybe, one day, even a judge. It can also provide a solid foundation to work in broader business or commercial areas. Priscilla said an overarching benefit of studying law is that it teaches you how to think.

“You learn to come up with a solution to a problem, using a structured thinking process. This is so valuable. As one lecturer informed me at the beginning of my studies, ‘you start your law degree with a brain but finish it with a mind’,” she said.

Grace Mullins was similarly involved in mooting and legal studies at St Margaret’s and also studied a dual degree in Arts/Law at The University of Queensland, saying that arts, in which she majored in international relations and history, had provided a balance to the, at times, singular focus of law studies. Grace encouraged the girls to look for practical legal experience as early as possible, having had the invaluable experience of working at a law firm during her studies. Studying abroad on exchange in her final semester was another path Grace took and highly recommended. Having been involved in the Year 10 Global Exchange Program to Shawnigan Lake School, Grace was keen to repeat the experience at university, saying it was a great way to expand your mind and think about law in a different culture and environment. She was the recipient of a St Margaret’s Old Girls' Association Overseas Scholarship which helped with expenses, and studied at Lund University in Sweden, established in 1666. Grace said the benefits of working as a Judge’s Associate were numerous.

Grace Mullins, Priscilla Mackay, Caitlin McConnel and Mrs Amanda Minotti


“You get fantastic exposure to the profession, sitting in court observing advocacy, and it shows you how to be a good practitioner, with the emphasis on legal research and focusing on legal concepts.”

Grace finished by saying a career in law is ‘what you make it’.

“Be creative, look for opportunities, and surround yourself with people prepared to support you,” she said.

Caitlin McConnel boarded at St Margaret’s; her home is the historic Cressbrook Station – the oldest residence in Queensland, settled by her great-great-great-grandfather in 1841. It is also the oldest identified family business in Queensland and one of the third oldest in Australia.

With early thoughts of being a fighter pilot or stockbroker, Caitlin’s path to the law was less straightforward than her colleagues, and she said she is the first to admit she did not have the same academic commitment in her school days as they did, having graduated with an OP 11. Caitlin explained that her commitment, in those days, was rather to the sport of rowing, which she positively attributes to the development of her time management skills and dedicated work ethic – imperative characteristics to succeed in the practice of law.

However, her most important message to the girls was that, regardless of her OP score, she has been still able to pursue a career in law. She undertook a dual degree of a Bachelor of Business in Finance and a Bachelor of Laws at QUT and also went on exchange to Oxford University. She said while better grades may have opened doors sooner, it was through hard work and determination that she was able to create, and make the most of, opportunities.

These included working as a law clerk at various Brisbane law firms throughout the course of her university studies, as well as undertaking work experience at financial institutions such as Deloitte and Credit Suisse and with Barrister James Bell QC. In 2014, Caitlin also gained National Mediator’s Accreditation through Bond University and completed a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, which enabled her admission to the Supreme Court of Queensland in June 2015.

In addition to her work, Caitlin is also an avid public speaker on matters pertaining to Queensland’s agricultural and economic history (including that of her family’s contributions) and mental health in rural and regional areas. In this role, she has worked closely with the Australian Government, Tie Up the Black Dog Committee, Qantas and Shafston International College. Earlier this year, Caitlin also shared her experiences as a boarder at St Margaret’s, particularly on the topic of mental illness, with the Year 10 cohort. Caitlin has recently been selected as a member of the RNA Future Directions Committee, which is a committee designed to provide strategic guidance to the RNA Council, with a focus on promoting the RNA, the Brisbane Showgrounds and the Ekka into the future.

Caitlin is currently Associate to the Honourable Justice Collier in the Federal Court, and the National and Supreme Courts of Papua New Guinea. Justice Collier is the only female Federal Court Judge in Brisbane.

Caitlin said a career in law has provided her with a ‘buffet of options’ with which to forge her future. Next year, she will commence work with Clayton Utz in their commercial litigation team and will also continue her agricultural and business endeavours on her family property, Cressbrook. She has given some thought to an eventual career at the Bar, however is cognisant of the fact that her skills may also be suited to a career in business. That, Caitlin said, is the beauty of law; it provides boundless opportunities.

2014 Alison Black 2007 Supreme Court of Queensland Associate to the Honourable Justice McMurdo

2014 Claire Hockin 2007 District Court of Queensland Associate to His Honour Judge AJ Rafter SC

2014 Sophie Underwood (nee Dixon) 2007 Supreme Court of Queensland Associate to the Honourable Justice Dalton

2015 Priscilla Mackay 2008 Federal Court of Australia Associate to the Honourable Justice Reeves

2015 Caitlin McConnel 2007 Federal Court of Australia Associate to the Honourable Justice Collier

2015 Grace Mullins 2008 Federal Court of Australia Associate to the Honourable Justice Logan

2016 Sophie Underwood (nee Dixon) 2007 High Court of Australia Associate to the Honourable Justice Kiefel


Perhaps one of the highlights of St Margaret’s College’s Student Success Program is the industry networking dinners hosted in the Oratory – an intimate function setting with spectacular city views.

The first of these events was launched this year with the law networking dinner, where young law students from across Brisbane joined highly experienced industry professionals to connect, build relationships and to learn from industry leaders.

Dr Kylie Armstrong said she was thrilled to launch the first in a series of events that will link college residents’ fields of study with industry networks.

"Our aim, as we grow and mature as a college, is to provide an environment where students can gain the skills and edge they need in the competitive graduate entry workplace," said Dr Armstrong.

The second event this year gave college residents and invited students the unique privilege of engaging with leaders in the field of occupational therapy (OT). Students mingled with invited guests before moving to the Oratory for the formal part of the evening, where college resident Tiegan Jackson, first year OT student at the Australian Catholic University (ACU), emceed the evening.

Students, industry leaders, course coordinators and lecturers from the University of Queensland, Griffith University and ACU, which all offer OT in South East Queensland, attended the evening.

Guest speakers Anna Young (’93) and Penny Power, inspirational leaders who both job share in the state-wide role of Directors of Occupational Therapy and Music Therapy at the Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital, provided insight into their leadership journey. Both women share a unique passion for leadership development by engaging and empowering their staff; something which was critical to the merging of staff from different hospitals and cultural contexts to the new Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital.

Anna also has a strong connection to St Margaret’s AGS as a past student who finished senior in 1993. Her sister, Jane Prior (’97), and mother, Pippa Prior (nee Park ’67), are also Old Girls.

Dr Armstrong said: “Both Anna and Penny are leading the way in collaborative transformational practices and are inspirational leaders to the next generation of health professionals. Their speech ignited much discussion and provided a platform for students to seek insight into the future of the profession.

“An essential part of the Student Success Program comes from women living, learning and working in close association with women peer leaders who mirror values to which our young women can aspire. Our program aims to educate our collegians, giving them opportunities to reach their potential. This event highlights the commitment the college has to enhancing our students’ professional development and through working with organisations to expand its offerings through strong institutional ties.”

St Margaret’s College provides outstanding networking opportunities

St Margaret’s College in Ascot, Brisbane, is a new and unique residential facility committed to providing high quality academic and pastoral care for

young women pursuing tertiary studies in Brisbane.Apply Online at www.stmargaretscollege.com.au for 2016 and 2017

T E R T I A R Y A C C O M M O D A T I O N F O R W O M E N

Global exchange a family affair


Three sisters from the one St Margaret’s family have all taken advantage of the school’s Year 10 Global Exchange Program, broadening their life experience and making lifelong friendships.

Libby Marples (nee Kruger, ‘81) encouraged her daughters Emily (2013), Phoebe (2011) and current Year 10 student Sally to embrace the challenge of living and studying abroad.

“It’s such a rare opportunity for young girls to live in a different country safely supervised, where they can gain independence and resilience,” said Libby.

The Exchange Program is an integral part of the school’s strategic goal of ‘broadening horizons’.

St Margaret’s students are invited to contribute to the wider community, explore opportunities and develop a deep understanding of their responsibilities within local, national and international contexts.

Eldest daughter Emily was the first to embark on the program, and could hardly contain her excitement about travelling to South Africa to experience life as a boarder at St Anne’s Diocesan College.

“When I first arrived at St Anne’s, I was extremely eager to be immersed in a different culture and lifestyle,” said Emily.

Emily said going on exchange taught her to accept cultural difference and develop a deeper understanding of the world.

“It also taught me that life’s too short to stay in the one place, and to travel and experience as much as you can while you are able,” she said.

Phoebe flew to Japan to live with a family who spoke little English. Although the language barrier seemed challenging at first, it was one of the most beneficial experiences of her exchange.

Phoebe said that although schooling at Konan Girls High School in Kobe was culturally different, the school still reminded Phoebe of St Margaret’s in many ways.

“Konan School was located up on a hill with a beautiful view of the city, and the school had a warm, friendly and supportive community feeling,” she said.

Some of Phoebe’s exchange highlights included travelling throughout Japan, visiting temples and learning and practicing Sado – a traditional Japanese tea-making ceremony.

Following in her sister’s footsteps, Sally was determined to immerse herself in her Canada exchange this year to Shawnigan Lake School on Vancouver Island.

“I think that the most beneficial thing about going on exchange was making friends with people from across the globe and learning about their different lives,” Sally said.

“I now have these connections with people all over the world, who I hope to visit again one day.”

Two years ago, the Marples reciprocated the hosting experience, inviting Phoebe’s host sister Miri to stay with the family for a month. Thanks to social media, the girls are able to keep in touch with their new friends and family overseas, and continue to communicate regularly.

Libby says that she would have loved the opportunity to go on exchange when she was at school, and is amazed at how brave her daughters were to embrace living in another country at such a young age.

Courage is one of St Margaret’s six core values, and the Global Exchange Program offers students the chance to develop this trait through embracing the challenges and changes presented to them through this unique learning experience.

Canada exchange 2015 The Global Exchange Program has been available to Year 10 students for the past ten years, and allows students to study for a term at one of the ten overseas schools partnering with St Margaret’s.

Christine Murr and Edwina (Eddie) White are two students who embraced the opportunity to experience school life as boarders at Shawnigan Lake School on Vancouver Island in Canada.

Christine and Eddie spoke on assembly about their “journey of a lifetime” – describing Shawnigan as less of a school, and more of a home. The girls enjoyed not only the compulsory Fine Arts and sports, but also learning and experiencing the Canadian culture and lifestyle.

Christine said they enjoyed the independence and freedom that came with living on campus and, by the end of their stay, their roommates were more like sisters.

“Being at St Margaret’s has taught us all the importance of taking a step outside our comfort zone and trying something new,” she said.

“The exchange program is the perfect opportunity to do just that – to branch out and experience a different culture and lifestyle.”


Ponytail Project: grassroots philanthropy

The idea of grassroots philanthropy is one St Margaret's strongly encourages. When a Year 12 student’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, a spontaneous desire to help rippled through the senior cohort. So many lives are touched by cancer and the girls just felt they MUST do something – so began the Ponytail Project.

An amazing 21 students volunteered to cut off their ponytails, donating the hair for wigs for chemotherapy patients. Incredibly, the girls – and the wider school community – also raised almost $20,000 for Cancer Council Queensland, funding research programs into all cancers.

Sam Fraser, mother to Meg and Ellie Fraser and the story behind the Ponytail Project, says she is so thrilled to see what the girls achieved.

“It’s such a big thing for the girls to cut off their long hair, and I am so very proud of them all,” said Sam.

It was a feeling shared among the St Margaret’s community, with over 500 likes and 8000 views of the haircut video online. There was also an outpouring of emotion on Facebook.

Shelley Shelton said, “What an inspiration you are girls. You should feel very proud.”

Karen Hartley sent a message saying she thought our girls were very brave and generous: “Some may not truly understand the joy, dignity and peace the gift of their hair, made into a wig, will bring to a woman they will never know but is battling cancer. This hair will brighten other people's lives. What a gift. Well done, girls.”

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift thanked St Margaret’s girls for their passion and commitment to helping Queenslanders affected by cancer.

“This is a unique and innovative fundraiser – helping the one in two Queenslanders who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime,” Ms Clift said.

St Margaret’s is extremely proud of all the girls involved and the wider school community who contributed as well.

It’s hoped the Ponytail Project will become an annual event – so the challenge has been set! We look forward to seeing more short bob hairstyles in 2016.

Philanthropist of the YearOne of the girls behind the Ponytail Project, Year 12 student Maria Cobain, has been recognised at the Queensland Community Foundation’s 2015 Philanthropist of the Year Awards.

Maria won the Junior Award (Years 7-12) for her extensive volunteering work with organisations like Meals on Wheels and the Salvation Army, as well as her role in the Ponytail Project.

To see the award video use the QR Code

http://qcf.org.au/qcf-philanthropy-week/qcf-philanthropist-of-the-year-awards-2015/

Home away from homelessness


Women in these (abusive) situations are, in fact, homeless even before they leave and it takes enormous courage for a woman, sometimes with children, to pack up and go. And once they've dredged up the courage, where do women go? Where can they escape? Where can they be safe while they tackle all the things they need to do to rebuild their lives? Well this is one such place. The Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall, Archbishop of the Diocese of Brisbane.

Women at risk in Brisbane will now have access to more safe and secure accommodation, after an innovative fundraising initiative that has become known as the “home away from homelessness” project.

The Deco Room Challenge required teams to raise $6000 to take part, and then each team helped decorate a bedroom in Anglicare’s new multi-million dollar facility at Toowong.

“Often our students will raise money for various charities but never see where it actually goes. This was a wonderful opportunity

for the girls to see first-hand how they are helping the community and supporting women in crisis,” said Head of Primary School Angela Drysdale.

It was a national competition, with some of the biggest corporate names in the country in the running and the St Margaret’s primary school team – Team Maggies – rose to the challenge to win the top prize!

It was a bit like The Block. The girls styled the room, keeping in mind the needs of the Anglicare clients and the rooms were then judged by a panel of experts. Team Maggies were delighted to take out the top prize with their “Marshmallow Magic” room.

“I think the women will like our room. It’s homely and it is safe,” said Maggies' team member Sophie Howse.

The new facility was opened in June by Archbishop Aspinall and will provide a range of womens-only accommodation, as well as care and support programs.

Celebrating a century: our art at Toc H headquarters in Belgium Artworks by St Margaret’s Toc H students are part of a large international installation in Belgium, celebrating 100 years of service.

Members around the world were asked to decorate 30 centimetre square canvases, with the background painted a specific blue to tie the works together and represent unity as well as diversity. The theme was “What does Toc H mean to you?”

Year 11 student Anna Kim says she wanted her artwork to deliver a message to those who are suffering, especially children.

“As Toc H aims to support the people who need help, I used the phrase: “We will protect you” in my painting, to tell them that we can help and we can support you,” explains Anna.

St Margaret’s Art Teacher Lisa Smith, who also contributed a canvas, says she and the girls worked on the pieces after school.

“It was lovely to work with the girls on a project contributing to a good cause rather than just for marks,” said Ms Smith.

Fundraising for Nepal

On April 25 this year, a powerful earthquake devastated

Nepal, killing almost 9000 people and leaving tens of

thousands without homes or livelihoods.

Moved by the country’s plight, St Margaret’s Year 10

students chose the Nepal Earthquake Appeal as their

charity of choice for the annual Business Market Day,

raising over $1500.

There were also sausage sizzles and monies raised from

the Year 12s’ ‘No Fret Friday’ events, totalling more

than $2500. The donation will go towards the on-going

rebuilding efforts in Nepal, assisting with providing clean

water, sanitation and shelter.


Longmanopening When our boarders lie down to

sleep we want them to dream big and when they wake we want them to be inspired by women of integrity, honour and achievement. It was this desire that led the school to begin naming each section of the boarding buildings after Australian women whose characteristics and achievements embody the values of St Margaret’s.

This tradition was behind the naming of the new Year 7 boarding area, Longman, officially opened this year in the old West Wing.

In 1929, Irene Longman was the first woman to be elected as a Member of the Queensland Parliament, paving the way for generations of female politicians to come.

It wasn’t an easy path for her, however. As a woman she was never allowed to use the parliamentary dining room and had to eat her meals on the verandah. During her time in parliament there weren’t even any female toilets in the building!

“It must have been really hard for her. I want to be strong like that but I don’t think I want to be a politician; maybe a nurse. I also want to do something to help the community like she did so I think she was a good choice to name our area after,” said Year 7 boarder Meg Sargood, who hails from a cattle property in Charleville.

While in office, Irene was responsible for the appointment of the first female police officer. She was also instrumental in improving facilities for juvenile offenders, including creating a separate children’s court and establishing a two person advisory panel to assist in difficult cases.

Her interest in the welfare of women and children stemmed from her early study and subsequent career as a teacher. She worked tirelessly to create opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. Irene served as the president of the Nation Council of Women in Queensland and became an honorary life member.

After her term in office, Irene continued to be a wonderful role model for women, remaining active in public life for the next 30 years and serving the marginalised in the community in many ways.

“Her life story is one of achievement, service, compassion and understanding. These are wonderful attributes that we would like our youngest boarders to consider as they begin their schooling away from home,” says Deputy Principal Kim Cohen, who, as then Acting Principal, officially opened the new precinct with Alison Quinn, Chair of School Council and Year 6 boarder Josie McPhee from Charleville.

The Longman area is only for our most junior boarders, from Years 5 to 7, allowing for a gentle transition into boarding school life.

History of boarding house namesMackillop is named after Mary Mackillop who was canonised as the first Australian Saint for her work with the poor and orphans.

O’Neil recognises the achievements of ‘Madame Butterfly’ Susie O’Neil and the spirit, courage and passion it takes to be a champion sportswoman.

Sutherland honours one of the most remarkable female opera singers of the 20th century Dame Joan Sutherland.

Macarthur acknowledges the hard work of farmer Elizabeth Macarthur, who is credited with laying the foundations for Australia’s successful international wool industry.

In Chisolm we find the attributes of 19th century women’s advocate Caroline Chisholm, who worked tirelessly to help improve the welfare of immigrants.

Durack echoes with the words of Mary Durack, a literary titan with a passion for the Australian country.

Kenny seeks inspiration from Elizabeth Kenny, who battled the early medical establishment to pioneer many medical advancements.

Irene Longman

Meg Sargood

Open your eyes to the world


Life in the city can be quite protected. Kids catch buses to school, play sport on well-watered ovals and think an hour's drive to the beach is SO boring.

Yes, St Margaret’s is nestled in beautiful leafy Ascot, but its community is drawn from across Brisbane and many parts of Australia and overseas, bringing diverse backgrounds and regional and international flavours to a suburban school.

Old Girl Fiona Spooner (nee Ungerer, 1987) is now a St Margaret’s housemother. Her story from day girl to farmer’s wife to boarders’ confidant is a great example of the richness a boarding community adds to a school.

Fiona’s mother was a St Margaret’s boarder in the 1950s, so she really encouraged her daughters to befriend the girls from other parts of the country and invite them home.

“Mum remembered what life was like living away from home and wanted to give them a break from the boarding house. “Poor darlings”, she would say. But she also wanted us to find out more

about their lives and it really did open our eyes up. It was absolutely amazing,” explains Fiona.

Fiona had only travelled in Queensland as far north as Noosa, as far west as Toowoomba and as far south as Stanthorpe. So when new rural friends, the Mundell and Harms families, asked Fiona and her sister to visit their homes in Roma and Condamine for the holidays, it was a huge adventure.

“It was 1986 and it began with a long trip on the Greyhound bus, followed by another long trip in a dusty 4WD. Our hosts thought nothing of the travel, but my sister and I wondered when it would ever end!”

The treasured memories of that journey are still fresh despite the intervening decades: “Beautiful sunsets with vivid colours gave way to magic nights. The stars went on forever, we could see the Milky Way so clearly. The moon was huge, like a dinner plate, lighting the sky. But when there was no moon, the night was as black as tar,” reminisces Fiona.

The way of life was so different to their own experiences, not the least being a kid driving cars, motorbikes and tractors!

“They were so good at driving and we were so jealous! And the freedom they had! The freedom to roam, there was no traffic, no strangers, no limits. We realised these girls had wonderful lives, so different from ours and so uninhibited. We went home feeling that another world had opened up to us.”

A love of the land was born and it was the first of many trips out west.

Years later, Fiona was studying business management at university when she met Max Spooner at a friend’s 21st birthday party. Max was a young beef and cattle farmer from Texas, near Goondiwindi on the Queensland/New South Wales boarder. So began a romance that blossomed into a marriage and life in the country with three beautiful children.

Fiona’s girls were always going to board at St Margaret’s and her son was enrolled at Churchie, but a devastating house fire put an end to their time on the land. A disrupted electricity supply is not unusual in the bush and a surge of power sparked a fire in the back of a fridge.

“It was the first of January 2012. We lost everything, but we were all safe; our kids were safe; our pets were safe. We decided we didn’t want to be apart, so we moved to Brisbane so the kids could start their schooling with us close by,” says Fiona.

The Texas farm is now up for sale, daughter Isabella is at St Margaret’s in Year 9, and ten year old Josephine will start here in January.

Fiona says she loves the connections in the boarding house and is pleased to see Isabella spending time with other bush kids.

“All our children have a great affinity for the boarders having lived that life themselves. I hope this is history repeating itself.”

We were in awe of the wide open spaces,

roads that went on forever, bush tracks called “roads” that were rough, dusty

and long. There was roadkill everywhere;

we were cringing at the sight and smell.

Bella Gray. Isabella Spooner, Fiona Spooner, Gabriella Sedgwick


Rowing was one of the first sports St Margaret’s competed in, with the earliest school photos showing girls clutching their oars. However, it was not always smooth sailing, and rowing was left high and dry at various times throughout its history.

Headmistress Juliet Lyon (1907-1917) (pictured) was a keen supporter of the sport, and rowing was encouraged in the early part of the century.

Old Girl Emily Gore (1916) remembers that while Miss Lyon was headmistress, St Margaret’s was the only girls school in Brisbane that rowed. The girls hired boats near Breakfast Creek Bridge and rowed up to Albion.

A report in the December 1918 issue of The Link thanks senior boys from another local school for lending St Margaret’s their boats and providing assistance with coaching. However, later that year, rowing

came to an abrupt halt when sporting events were cancelled due to fears of spreading the Spanish Flu, which had already claimed thousands of lives.

Then came the incident that put an end to rowing for many years, when one of the Sisters spotted what was considered, at that time, unseemly behaviour.

Just when is unclear, however one fateful day, a Sister was crossing Breakfast Creek

Bridge when a boat passed underneath, crewed by girls with skirts tucked into their bloomers. Rowing was promptly banned.

Boats hit the water again in 1989 and rowing has grown to become one of the St Margaret’s signature sports, with bloomers safely tucked away in the past.

“We had hoped to show our prowess (at the Interschool Rowing Regatta) but the fell foe influenza put an end to those happy plans.”The Link 1918

This year, St Margaret’s took out the coveted First VIII race at the BSRA Head of the River for an historic fifth year in a row. They also won the aggregate cup for overall points – the first time since 2002.

Not only did the First VIII seize victory, the Senior age group also won the Second and Third VIIIs leaving all comers in their wake. St Margaret’s finished third in the Senior IV, and was the only school to field a Fourth VIII, which rowed by invitation with the Third VIIIs, coming fourth in that field.

The Seniors and Year 10s won their age group pennants, while the Year 9s narrowly missed out by just two points. However, it was the Year 8s who launched the St Margaret’s shed off to their best start of the season, with all five crews making their respective ‘A’ Finals.

Coach Jono Voller said that while the St Margaret’s shed had performed strongly throughout the season, the Head of the River was a culmination of not only weeks of preparation, but the ability to retain a ‘cool head’ and the discipline to have your best race on the most important day.

“Our driving force is a ‘shed mentality’. There are only nine seats in a First VIII, but it takes a whole shed to win that race,” said Mr Voller.

“Building capacity throughout the season, and ensuring you perform your best on race day, comes back to the spirit of the entire rowing shed – the work ethic, the support of each other, the coaches and parents, and the camaraderie of the community.”

It was not only the current rowing community getting behind this year’s rowers.

St Margaret’s has a long pedigree of world–class rowers, and in the lead-up to the race, the shed was receiving well-wishes from across the world, including twins Miller and Tyler Ferris (’13) racing in the Trans-Tasman Challenge Regatta Series in the U21 Australian U21 team, who had themselves won the Head of the River in 2011, 2012 and 2013. In addition, Olympian Sally Kehoe (‘03) and Maddie Edmunds (‘09) also sent a shout-out from France, where they were competing in the World Rowing Championships, and subsequently qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

To cap off a great season, 21 St Margaret’s rowers attended the State Rowing Championships in Rockhampton in late September, and made the finals in all but two events. The medal haul included four bronze, seven silver, and a gold medal win by Wallis Russell in the U17 Single Scull – a fantastic effort by all girls.

School’s rowing history no smooth sailing

Historic fifth rowing win

Photo Gary Lynagh

Sports Results


Winning netball season2015 has been one of the most successful netball seasons in recent years for St Margaret’s, led by the Opens who made it through the season undefeated to win back-to-back premierships. The Senior As also went through undefeated to win their first premiership as a team, while our Year 9A girls showed great improvement this year, placing third. The Opens also competed in the Vicki Wilson Cup against high schools across Queensland. The girls were among the top 16 schools to make it through to the finals series, coming fifth in some hard fought matches against the state’s best: a fantastic result.

A sport that originated more than 2,000 years ago is making a comeback at St Margaret’s, thanks to students who agree that badminton is officially ‘cool’.

Head of Sport Ms Nicky Barrie believes that badminton has partly grown in popularity at St Margaret’s due to the timing of the sport being played towards the end of the year.

“The Year 12s really get into the sport because it’s their last chance to contribute to the school program. As a result, the other students are caught up in the tide of enthusiasm,” Ms Barrie said.

“Everything is wrapping up, so it’s a fun way to end the year.”

Due to the increasing popularity of the sport, the Queensland Girls' Secondary Schools Sports Association (QGSSSA) introduced warm-up meets this year to give the girls more opportunities to compete. Students who may not make it to the final QGSSSA badminton competition are still able to play at a competitive level.

Ms Barrie says that badminton isn’t just fun to play; it’s a sport where it is relatively easy to acquire basic skills and then improve on those skills with practice, making it a rewarding challenge to undertake.

Badminton makes a cool comeback

Taking it across the country and to the world From the backyard to Budapest: that’s the trajectory for St Margaret’s top cross country runners this year. It all starts with the early morning trainings around the hills of Ascot, which have proven to be fertile training grounds this season. While winning individual performances go to make up a team score, those performances are due in part to team spirit – the commitment and dedication team members have to one another to turn up to training, to push one another, and to light the fire of fierce determination. In cross country,

you win with your heart as much as your physical prowess; when there’s nothing left in your legs, it’s courage that gets you across the line.

It was the courageous efforts of all St Margaret’s cross country runners and their team spirit which saw the return of the Joan Benson QGSSSA Cross Country Percentage Shield to St Margaret’s in 2015. In the age divisions, the 12 years placed third, and the 14 to 16 years groups all placed second overall. The points total also placed St Margaret’s third in the aggregate cup. With the first two schools having nearly double the number of students as St Margaret’s, this result truly demonstrated the girls’ outstanding commitment and courage.

Six runners – Isabella Burdon, Brianna Campton, Alexandra Clements, Lara Crouch, Lucinda Crouch and Annabel Kennedy – subsequently went on to compete in the schools teams’ section at the Cross Country National Championships held at the Moonee Valley Racecourse in Melbourne in August, with the goal of qualifying for the

2016 Junior World Cross Country Championships in Budapest. This they did by winning the National Schools Title!

Lucinda Crouch finished fifth and Lara Crouch seventh: if they had not been competing for their school, both their places would have qualified them as individual runners to represent Australia. The team also found relay success with Lucinda and Lara gaining gold and Isabella Burdon winning bronze. Brianna Campton won the girls 14/15 year 2km time trial event, with Annabel Kennedy third and Alexandra Clements fifth.


Patron connects past and present

Old Girl, past parent and past president of the Old Girls' Association (OGA) Libby Black was thrilled to learn she had been selected as the St Margaret’s Patron for 2015-16.

Libby has certainly reflected the St Margaret’s theme of ‘connecting and engaging’, and makes the most of every opportunity within the school community.

While attending St Margaret’s, Libby developed leadership skills as house captain and netball captain, joining many teams and engaging in roles that were ideal for creating connections and making a difference.

Libby believes that ‘connecting’ is all about how well you relate to people and maintain relationships. ‘Engaging’ is a commitment to make decisions to take on specific roles and responsibilities. Both of these aspects have played a huge role in Libby’s education and career success.

As a parent, Libby says that it’s great to see how past values and traditions are still upheld today with everything from wearing the school uniform with pride to friendly rivalry between houses.

Many traditions have continued over time thanks to the support of the Sisters and school principals who have created new traditions relevant to younger generations.

It was the combination of the well-connected school environment, supportive teachers, and a great year group that have created the fondest memories of Libby’s time at St Margaret’s.

Libby said that from the moment she walked through the school gates she felt that she belonged. The OGA has allowed Libby to remain connected and engaged with the St Margaret’s community.

“It’s been a pleasure over the years working with the OGA committees where members have included dedicated past students of all ages.

“I have particularly enjoyed encouraging the younger Old Girls to become committee members and mentoring them in their committee roles.”

Libby said that she’s honoured to be the Patron for St Margaret’s and looks forward to engaging in the role and connecting with the school community.

Since her appointment, Libby has certainly been a regular visitor in her role as Patron, from assisting in Maggies’ Organic Garden to supporting many events and functions.

St Margaret’s Day RunFollowing the St Margaret’s Day Assembly and the announcement of the 2015/16 Patron, the girls enjoyed gathering in their houses and partaking of the traditional house cake, before it was time for the St Margaret’s Day Run, which always starts and finishes on Circular Drive. Always a joyous affair with much barracking from the sidelines, all runners put in their best efforts, with the following girls claiming first place: Sophia Manique (Junior Primary), Julia Elks (Senior Primary), Imogen Tsien (Junior Secondary), Lucinda Crouch (Intermediate Secondary) for the second year in a row, and Alexandra Clements (Senior Secondary). Lucinda Crouch also received the trophy for Open Secondary Division, which goes to the athlete with the fastest time.

A St Margaret’s mystery


As St Margaret’s celebrates 120 years, the disappearance of the statue in the middle of Circular Drive 90 years ago will forever remain a mystery.

The last photo on record with the statue in its original position was in 1925, with the disappearance narrowed down to some time within the following five years.

School Archivist Bronwyn Perry suggests that the statue was not, in fact, St Margaret, as previously believed, but a Greek or Roman Goddess that was there well before the school purchased Mooloomburram House.

Over the years there have been many theories behind the disappearance of the statue that Bronwyn says may link in with the construction of West Wing in 1928.

There is no answer to the century old question of “Where did it go and why?” as there is no reference in the school archives. The case of the disappearing statue will have to remain a mystery unless there is someone out there still who knows something…

Hundreds of clay poppies, handmade by the primary school and planted into Circular Drive, marked a century since the Gallipoli campaign, which gave rise to the ANZAC legend.

The centre piece at the anniversary service was a cardboard sculpture by Brisbane artist Ros Haydon – a kneeling soldier’s statue in a tribute to her Great Uncle Clarence.

100 year anniversary service



From the signature Classics in the Cathedral to the colourful Primary Arts Evenings, St Margaret’s cultural calendar provides performance opportunities across all year levels in the school.


Meet the Anderson sistersAt the Flyer magazine, we are very fortunate to speak to many amazing Old Girls about their lives after St Margaret’s. The Anderson sisters have been another truly wonderful example of all the school hopes for our young women: articulate, happy, pursuing their passions and speaking so thoughtfully with such kindness.

It has been a delight to discover more about their post school adventures.

Global researcher, digital designer, theatre company manager: the Anderson women, Lauren (2001), Amy (2003) and Kate (2005) are a powerhouse sister team.

Their years at St Margaret’s were a joy, full of music and performance, with a decade of Saturday sport in between. The girls were all prefects and Amy was also school captain. They shared numerous senior sporting and arts positions and won many awards for service and spirit.

“Participation and involvement gets you everywhere in life”, muses Lauren, when asked about valuable lessons learnt at school.

“The culture of ‘putting your hand up’ for things was certainly cultivated at St Margaret’s. You were encouraged to do the best you could, rather than meeting a set standard. Your unique interests were nurtured. There was something there for each of us.”

Amy agrees, saying her time at St Margaret’s has shaped her in more ways than she could count.

“My school life was fairly full on, but every single event was helping me learn a raft of important skills that have carried me through my life and career so far. I owe a lot to the early professional development opportunities the school offered me,” explains Amy.

Kate jokes her life has come full circle – she was one of the Von Trapp children in the school play; now she’ll be managing the professional troupe, after recently accepting a senior behind the scenes role in the Sound of Music Australian tour.

She says her beliefs in the ideas of feminism and women’s liberation stem from St Margaret’s.

“As I have grown up, I have realised how important a school like St Margaret’s is, where women can learn to work together and be strong … growing women we want to work with in the future. I hope St Margaret’s upholds and keeps this spirit of respect, and continues to instil this idea that it is not a competition; we are all in this together. To grow and build that mentality in a place like Maggies is something really special,” Kate told the Flyer.

All three girls asked that their parents please be mentioned in this article. Their mother Janette was the driving force behind sending the girls to St Margaret’s and specifically went to work to help foot overlapping tuition fees.

“It was hard paying for our education. There was a lot of before and after school care, and both Dad and Mum worked very hard for us to be there. We are all just very grateful to them,” says Amy.

Dad Chris is clearly very proud of his daughters, agreeing St Margaret’s was a good investment.

“The school really focused on the girls and gave them so much confidence and a belief they could do anything they wanted.”

For Amy and Lauren, that ‘anything’ has been at the forefront of futuristic career fields.

Lauren has spent the past five years travelling the world, investigating the growth of the economic idea of ‘collaborative consumption’.

“It’s an idea along the lines of eBay and Airbnb: using technology to share and exchange, which is very disruptive to traditional industries. So we work with international companies and corporations to address the changes and how to deal with them,” said Lauren

Amy works for Deloitte Digital as a senior user experience designer, spending her days exploring user behaviour online and designing websites and apps.

All three have very fond memories of friends, teachers and experiences.

“I just love the school. Everything about it from the history and the old buildings. I once had a friend visit from the USA and I took them on a tour that included St Margaret's, I just love it so much,” laughs Kate.

To see such capable, compassionate and confident women making their way in the world makes St Margaret’s a very proud parent indeed!

It’s like having a parent that you want to make proud. I want to make St Margaret’s proud. Kate Anderson


Donated art opens minds

Judith and Graham Bell have been devoted art collectors for most of their lives and have a strong connection to St Margaret’s that dates back to the ‘50s.

Judith (’59) was a boarder at the school and a prefect in her senior year, and received the coveted Old Girls’ Association prize. She taught at the school in the ‘80s; daughter Charlotte (Davis) was Dux in 1990; and grandchildren Margot and Hilary are current students.

The Bells made their first donation to the St Margaret’s art collection in 2013 with Chilli Creek. Since then, they have donated an additional three Indigenous works by Lockhart River artists, and most recently Pitch by Todd Hunter.

Judith says influential ‘70s and ‘80s art dealer Ray Hughes inspired them to share their love of art. Ray Hughes grew up fascinated by the art that surrounded him and realised, while he’d never be a great artist himself, he was able to recognise artists’ potential.

“Being exposed to the works of diverse artists can be life changing,” Judith said.

“It’s important to expose children to all forms of art at a young age, so they can form a companionship with art.”

The Bells hope their contribution to the school’s art collection encourages students to develop a respect for artists and performers.

“Young people need to understand that making money is not the only way to be successful and that there are many ways to live fulfilled lives,” Judith said.

“I’m profoundly committed to public good, and feel a great responsibility to support art.”

Judith says that she and Graham will continue to share their passion for art with St Margaret’s by helping to further expand the school’s art collection.

Reach for the stars! Past parent Chris Anderson loves astronomy and he is hoping his donation of an enormous telescope to St Margaret’s will inspire a new generation to “reach for the stars”.

At a special assembly in June to unveil the 10 inch Meade reflector, he told the girls: “I hope this telescope generates an interest in the stars. Perhaps one of you will become an astral physicist, make a discovery and change the world, like I want my girls to.”

Chris’ three daughters attended St Margaret’s and Lauren (2001), who was arts captain and a prefect, was there to see the telescope handed over.

“I am just thrilled to think that Dad’s gift could help a young woman pursue her interest in astronomy and a career in science,” said Lauren.

Chris explained that the telescope has an on board computer with a data base of 10,000 objects which it can find and track.

“That means you’ll be able to find any object, look at solar and lunar eclipses, see the rings of Saturn, the ice caps of Mars, even the storms on Jupiter. I really hope you all enjoy it.”

The Mayo collection growsA story of lifelong friendship is behind recent additions to the St Margaret’s Mayo collection.

Ipswich born artist Muriel (Mim) Shaw lived a long, lively and creative life. She studied various techniques under leading painters, potters and designers in every decade of her life. Among the artists she called friends was prominent Brisbane sculptor and St Margaret’s Old Girl Daphne Mayo.

Mim’s daughter Margaret Collerton said Daphne Mayo was an oft spoken name in the Shaw household. She recalls her mother pointing out art created by Daphne around Sydney, both at the library and Commonwealth Bank.

After Daphne passed away in 1982, Margaret visited Daphne’s studio at The Rocks in Sydney with her mother to inherit some of Daphne’s most treasured possessions from Judith McKay – curator of Mayo exhibition ‘Let there be Sculpture' – who has kept Daphne’s name in the limelight.

Seeing Daphne’s studio after it had been closed for years was a truly magical experience for Margaret, and one that she is thankful to have shared with her mother.

Judith gave several of Daphne’s possessions to Mim, including paints and pastels, a work table and easel, a self-portrait, and a pastel study in the style of Odilon Redon, which all then came to Margaret after Mim’s passing in 1990.

When five generations of furniture, art and paintings needed to be moved from Margaret’s family home at Kangaroo Point recently, Margaret very kindly donated the several items to St Margaret’s Mayo collection. Although it was difficult to part with Daphne’s precious items, Margaret decided it was time to let go.

“I know how much Daphne meant to my mother, and I thought it was most appropriate that Daphne’s memory can be passed on to inspire future generations of students at St Margaret’s,” she said.

St Margaret’s Art teacher Jenny Lishman said that both Daphne and Mim shared the same positive attributes, with both artists dedicated to living out their creative careers.

“Daphne Mayo was such a strong role model: feisty and tenacious – a strong woman in an age when women were not considered as such,” said Mrs Lishman.

Margaret said that Daphne was an inspiration to women of her generation, and especially to her mother, Mim. The personal collection of Daphne’s items are a significant addition to the St Margaret’s Mayo collection.

P&F

Stepping through the snowy, tree-lined entrance hall into the Winter Wonderland Ball was a breathtaking experience for the 179 guests supporting P&F Association’s first Community Ball. Glistening ice decorations added a touch of sparkle to the glamour of the evening, as the immaculately pressed suits and stunning gowns filled the room.

The celebrations continued well into the night as guests enjoyed the melodious tones of Dr Groove, and took advantage of the dance floor. Happy couples had their portraits taken on the snow throne, and group shots were symbolic of the connectedness of the St Margaret’s community.

Generous sponsorship of the event through silent auction and raffle prize donations, together with enthusiastic participation from guests, helped raised $25,000 for the P&F Association, and our heartfelt thanks to everyone for their contribution to this total. Thanks also to the ball committee and the St Margaret’s Development Office for their organisation and tremendous efforts in staging such a wonderful event.

The evening also provided the perfect opportunity to reflect on the successes of past St Margaret’s students with Principal Ros Curtis introducing two influential Old Girls to the inaugural Past Student Awards roll – Keri Craig-Lee (’75 – 2015 Distinguished Past Student Award) and Gwyneth Olsen (’00 - the 2015 Young Past Student of Distinction Award) – for individual successes in Australian fashion and the wine making industry, respectively. Their stories can be viewed on the St Margaret’s website.

In addition, an honour board has been erected in the Arts Centre Foyer as a permanent record, which profiles the current year’s winners. Details on how to nominate yourself or a worthy recipient for either the 2016 Distinguished Past Student Award or the 2016 Young Past Student of Distinction Award are outlined in the nomination forms which can be downloaded from the website.

Applications close 5pm Monday 7 March 2016, with winners to be announced at a dinner on Friday 15 April, 2016.

Winter Wonderland BallP&F


P&FSt Margaret’s Race Day


Glorious spring weather ensured a great day out at St Margaret’s 19th annual Race Day, held on Saturday 5 September. Close to 300 guests attended this P&F hosted event, all enjoying the excitement of the racing and raffle draws and the camaraderie that surrounds this wonderful community gathering.

The success of Race Day depends on the very generous support of many people and the school extends its thanks to all the organisers, and to everyone who supported the day through attending the event, purchasing tickets, or sponsoring a race or donating prizes for the raffles or lucky envelopes.


2015 ReunionsAcross the 2015 reunion weekend, held on 24 – 26 July, St Margaret’s welcomed over 240 past students to their 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 or 60 year reunions. In addition, 52 guests attended this year’s VIP 60+ reunion luncheon held on Wednesday 17 June, and St Margaret’s once again travelled to Sydney in September, to reconnect with past students across the decades who currently call Sydney home.

The Old Girls’ Association host their annual Old Girls’ chapel service and morning tea on the Sunday of the reunion weekend. This event is open to all Old Girls, and many take this opportunity to come together every year, and join with those who have attended their milestone reunions. This is always a very special morning where generations of Old Girls commune in prayer and then enjoy each other’s company over an always sumptuous morning tea in the Arts Centre Foyer.

30 Years

40 Years

10 & 20 Years

50 Years 60 Years

VIPReunion

The Eton Society: leaving a legacy; building a future


I believe that one of the greatest gifts a St Margaret’s education imparts is the empowerment it lends to the young women who pass through its doors: the belief that they can do anything, be anything and above all make a positive impact on a local and global scale.

There is a lot written about the benefits of single-sex education, but one only has to spend some time at St Margaret’s to know that the freedom of thought, unconstrained exploration of uniquely female perspectives and uncontained joy facilitated in a supportive and unwatched environment empower the girls in their journey to discover their uniqueness and talents.

After being educated at St Margaret’s over 35 years ago, and having watched my nieces and own daughter thrive here, and recently having returned as a Foundation Director and then later as Marketing Director, I had no hesitation in being open to considering a bequest to St Margaret’s in my will when responding to a survey sent out to Old Girls at the end of last year.

With two children to whom I wish to provide some legacy, my bequest may not be the largest of sums, but it will be an amount that will help make a difference in someone’s life – it will help afford someone the opportunity my family members have had.

Becoming a member of the Eton Society – open to those who have or are considering leaving a bequest in their will – enables you to keep in regular contact with the school and be provided with regular updates from the Principal about the school’s future plans – plans that will be enabled in part through the bequest program.

Making a visible statement through becoming a member of the Eton Society is not about philanthropic self-promotion. A will is a very private matter, but the benefits of forming a society will not be optimised by it being a secret society! Hopefully others with the same passions will be drawn to the cause; will seek to know how they can help; and will maintain an ongoing interest in what their legacy will help achieve.

Researching stories in 2015 for our 120 year celebration has renewed my appreciation for the work of the Sisters and the incredible foresight they had in providing an education for girls from all across Queensland (and now the world). I am ashamed to admit as a young student I took their work almost completely for granted, yet this year learning more about their early days of door knocking to obtain funds to continue their work of educating girls and their toils through the years to grow the school and its facilities has been inspiring.

It is a reality today that schools cannot thrive, or even perhaps survive, on fees alone. It is imperative to keep fees at a sustainable level to provide access to as many girls as possible while maintaining the level of education and programs for which St Margaret’s is renowned. But in order to keep pace and progress the school, and enable it to best prepare girls for increasingly complex futures in a fiercely competitive global marketplace, a philanthropic culture must be the new norm in educational environments. Across Australia, bequest programs will be key to institutional stability and future growth, in the face of government shortfalls.

The Eton Society is St Margaret’s bequest program. It was launched this year at an intimate high tea in the Moolumburram boardroom with the Chair of Foundation Roger House and Principal Ros Curtis. Those present were treated to a presentation by Ms Curtis about the exciting future plans for the school – many of us will not be here to see the future unfold, but will be pleased to know we had a hand – in ways large or small – in its unfurling.

Joining the Eton Society is not about the size of your bequest – it is about the spirit of intention and about participation to help build a program that will honour the legacy of the Sisters and contribute to the education of girls for many years to come.

Wendy Johnston (nee Giddens ’79) Director – St Margaret’s Foundation Director of Marketing and Communications

2015 Reunions

Sister June Ruth SSA 21 November 1927 – 20 July 2015It was with great sadness that we announced the passing of Sister June Ruth SSA in July this year.

Sister June Ruth was born in 1927 and grew up in Roma in Western Queensland. She came to Brisbane to attend St Margaret’s sister school St Aidan’s when she was 15 years old, after which she studied nursing. She later married, before settling in Toowoomba, where she worked as a boarding house mistress.

Later in life, Sister June Ruth came to several retreats run by the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent at Community House on our grounds in Ascot. She enjoyed the sense of belonging, peace and tranquillity offered by the Order, and applied to join in 1983. Sister June Ruth was life professed in 1990 and remained a steady and loving presence at both schools.

Sister June Ruth came to the order as a trained lifeline counsellor and connecting with people was what she loved to do the most. She also completed the EFM (Education for Ministry) course and a spiritual direction course, both of which equipped her for parish ministry. She was wonderful with young people and took religious and values education lessons at St Margaret’s for some time.

Sister June Ruth’s funeral was held at St John’s Cathedral on 30 July and performances from the choirs of both St Aidan’s and St Margaret’s were a beautiful addition to the service presided over by the Archbishop, The Most Rev Dr Phillip Aspinall.

We give thanks for Sister June Ruth’s commitment, dedication, love and service. May she rest in peace.

30 Years

$0

$1,000

$2,000

$3,000

$4,000

$5,000

$6,000

Alumni Decade x Donation Amount

1930-1939 1940-1949 1950-1959 1960-1969 1970-1979 1980-1989 1990-1999 2000-2009 2010-2014

Alumni Decade x donation value


Charts2015 Annual Appeal by Entity

Other 3,620.00$ 9%Current Parents 25,500.00$ 65%Past Students 10,315.00$ 26%

39,435.00$

2015 Parents x Primary or Secondary

Children in Primary Children in Secondary Children in both

2015 Annual Appeal by EnFty

Other Current Parents Past Students

$0 $500

$1,000 $1,500 $2,000 $2,500 $3,000 $3,500 $4,000 $4,500 $5,000

Alumni Decade x donaFon value

Other Current Parents Past Students

2015 Annual Appeal$3,650 - 9%$10,315 - 26%

$25,500 - 65%

St Margaret’s Foundation: thank you for your gift

Thank you to the many current parents and past students who responded to the 2015 Annual Appeal.

This was only the school’s second annual appeal, and pleasingly we surpassed last year’s results by just over $2000.00. We are most appreciative of those of you who recognised, through your gift of giving, that all of us at St Margaret’s today are benefiting from the generosity of past donors. Without their past philanthropy, today’s students would not be enjoying such wonderful spaces as the Arts Centre or Eunice Science and Resource Centre – these facilities simply cannot be built from fees and government grants alone. While this year’s donations to the building fund will immediately be put towards a building project that will benefit current students, students long into the future will also ‘enjoy the shade of the trees you have planted’.

People also generously gave to the scholarship fund – most notably past students, who no doubt reflect on their own education and wish for others to receive the same benefits they still value and hold dear. Alumnae from the ‘50s contributed most significantly followed by the ‘60s, then the ‘70s.

The school sometimes receives feedback from donors in the form of an apology – they are sorry they cannot give more. However, people should never feel that even a small contribution is not of great value. Any donation is gratefully received. The annual appeal goes out to approximately 7500 people on the school’s data base. Imagine if everyone only gave $10; together, we could raise $75,000.

In 2015, 89 individuals or families responded to the call, and collectively raised $39,465.

Next year, the focus of our campaign will be participation. We hope to encourage as many current and past community members to think about giving a gift, in any capacity they can. If it’s $2 or $200 or $2000, every donation makes an impact, every donation can change a life. Pleasingly this year, the engagement of current parents in gift giving increased by 15%.

In 2016, rather than run a single annual giving appeal, the school will conduct a year-long campaign to which people can donate at a time most convenient to them, or perhaps in smaller but more frequent parcels, when they feel they have the capacity to give.

A culture of philanthropy in a school community is vital to its ability to continue to grow and flourish and keep apace in a rapidly changing and increasingly global world. Small donations collectively have a huge impact and, regardless of the size of your individual gift, it will make a difference.

Your generosity holds the key to the future success of St Margaret’s. That can start now by utilising the appeal envelope included is this edition of the Flyer.

Thank you to everyone for their past generosity.

Roger House Chair of Foundation

Alumni Donations per Decade

Thank youThank you


On behalf of St Margaret's, the Foundation would like to gratefully acknowledge all of those who have made donations in the past twelve months to the Building Fund, Scholarship Fund and Endowment Fund. We also extend our thanks to those donors who wish to remain anonymous.

We honour our generous donors according to their cumulative giving, and in alphabetical order.

More than $100,000The Lee Family

$25,000 - $49,000Helene Jones Est for Nora Baird

$10,000 - $24,999 The Crouch FamilyRos CurtisThe Hon Mrs A Dawson-DamerThe de Groot FamilyMatthew and Roxane HortonThe Lane FamilyThe Lisle FamilyProfessional Women's NetworkThe Whyte Family

$5,000-$9,999James and Lauren AdcockMr Bloomfield & Dr MosesDr P Quayle

$2,000 - $4,999Shirley BaleMrs E G BlackThe Chancellor FamilyMr R & Mrs D GracieMrs C HillMargot (Moore) LoveMr F & Mrs S PuglieseSharon and Jim RyanMr D & Mrs R Wright

$2 to $2,000Miss Louisa AinsworthMrs P AlvarezMrs Dawne BarnettMs Betty BeathDarren BodimeadeMrs Eleanor BoltonMrs Annette BrayMrs Diane BrouwerMrs Margaret BunceMs G A CameronMs Margaret CameronMrs Helen ChuawiwatDr A & Mrs R ClarkeMrs Anne ClarkeMrs Glennie ClarkeMrs Robin CohenMs Desiree CoroneoMrs Joan CowieMrs Ann CrookMrs Diana DavidsonMs Jean DaviesMr C Dines & Ms J MuntanerMr R and Mrs G DonaldsonMrs Margaret DowseMrs J DuncanMrs M DunningMs Annabel EarnshawMiss B P ElliottMr R R & Mrs S R FerrierMrs Beverley Fox Mrs L M FraserMrs Jan GablerMrs Marie GeorgeMrs Lynn GranthamMr A & Mrs K GrayMrs A GreenMiss Kathryn GroundsMrs Margaret HamiltonMrs Jan HewittMs Jill HewittMr Brian E HirschfeldMr T Hoang & Ms H VuMrs Ann HoensMrs Sandra HumphriesMrs S JarmerMrs A JobbinsMiss Nikki Johnston

Ms Wendy JohnstonMrs Barbara KellyMr M C & Mrs P H KennedyMr W & Mrs W KingPeter Knee & Carolyn DauntMrs Isabel LarcombeMrs Aileen LoweMrs Merilyn LuckMrs Joyce MarjasonMrs Paisley MathiesonMr R & Mrs K MatyearMrs Coralie McArthurMr A & Mrs S McGilvrayMrs Heather McGrathMrs Jan McGuireMrs M McNeeMrs M MooreMr C & Mrs W MortMrs Anne MuggletonMrs Margaret MuxworthyMrs Myolene O'DempseyMrs Alma OhlrichMs Shayne OlsenOrgan Historical Trust of AustMrs Glynis OrrMrs Doris PattinsonMr T N & Mrs C L PieterseMs S PillMs Lesley PyecroftMr E J & Mrs A M QuayleMr R & Mrs A QuinnMrs Pett RaynerMrs Robin ScottMr B & Mrs M SheahanMrs Barbara SheppardMrs Kylie SimpsonMs Margaret SkermanMs Amanda SmithMrs Janette SnewinMrs Natalie SnideMrs P SomersetMr J H & Mrs K M SpeareMrs Dagmar SpierlingMrs Jane StablerMs Heather StephensonMrs Aileen StillMrs Ann SwanMrs Margaret Tait

Dr Kathryn TehMrs Allison ThorpeMrs Jill TomkinsMrs Lillian TomkinsMrs Lorraine UngererMrs Wendy WhiteMr P & Mrs T WilliamsMs Luanne WishartMr J A & Mrs A G Woods

Every year, in addition to donations to the Foundation’s building, scholarship and endowment funds, the school receives support from many areas, from within the school, from the wider school community and from local businesses and corporate sponsors. We would like to gratefully acknowledge all our supporters this year; whether it is in valuable time given to school through volunteering; the donating of raffle and auction prizes for our events; sponsoring an event; or through in-kind gifts to the school – these contributions are invaluable to the school now and into the future. We also wish to sincerely thank everyone who supported the school by attending an event, purchasing a raffle ticket or bidding for an auction item. Your generosity is truly appreciated.


St Margaret’s Professional Women’s Network events this year have been characterised by inspiring guest speakers, uplifting networking, unparalleled views, and generous sponsorship from corporate partners.

The events are open to all members of the St Margaret’s community and their

networks, and offer the chance to connect with people from across Brisbane, and hear from highly regarded and successful women who are leaders in their fields.

Early in the year, Maxine Horne, co-founder and chief executive officer of Vita Group and also a current parent at St Margaret’s, shared her journey from owning a single phone shop on the Gold Coast to growing it into a national, publicly-listed company, generating revenues over $450M in 2014. She has received the President’s Award at the NSW ARA Awards for Excellence, was named 2006 QBR Business Woman of the Year (Retail), and in July 2014 was awarded the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award (northern region). One of Maxine’s passions and keys to her success is the mentoring of her employees, which she maintains are the company’s most valuable assets. An important catch cry for Maxine is ‘implementation eats strategy for breakfast’. While it is clear she has an insightful strategic approach to leading her company to great success, her clarity of execution has been key to her company’s growth.

Whilst the view from the St Margaret’s Arts Centre Foyer (where most PWN events are held) is hard to surpass, those networkers attending the sell-out second event, held in the KPMG boardroom high up in Riparian Plaza, were greeted with a molten-gold Brisbane River, shimmering in the morning light against the

statuesque Story Bridge – an appropriately inspiring setting for our next inspiring speaker, former chair of school council and St Margaret’s Old Girl Annabelle Chaplain (’74).

Annabelle has a long list of career achievements as an investment banker and has served as a Director of ASX listed companies, government owned corporations and private companies. Annabelle said the opportunities and education she received at St Margaret’s left her in no doubt, upon graduating, that she could be successful.

Her five top tips were summarised by the acronym TRIBE.

T: Toughen up! Push yourself to do your best, choose the best opportunities and be strong.

R: Resilience! The cards will not always fall your way. Get back up, regardless.

I: Invest in yourself. Annabelle said that completing her MBA with a young family was tough, but she never needed to quantify herself after that.

B: Be Brave. Put your hand up. What’s the worst that can happen?

E: Engage and be Enthusiastic. Be in it!

Annabelle shared her career path and some of the tough situations she had come up against, and it was clear in offering these tips to those gathered that she had lived and breathed these ‘mantras’ and they had served her extremely well. We thank KPMG for sponsoring this event, providing both the lofty venue and delicious breakfast.

.

St Margaret’s networking events take flight


“Pray if it depends on God. Work if it depends on you!” Among the advice shared by our third guest speaker, Old Girl and CEO and MD of Lynas Corporation Amanda Lacaze (’76), were some gems from her mother, including a 40 year old star chart and some household rules.

The childhood chart provided Amanda with a well-rounded approach of articulating vision and providing clear objectives and measures, with a rewarding recognition system that helped shape her as the top mining executive and leader she is today. As a CEO, Amanda is putting the ‘long luncheon, order barking’ stereotype to rest, providing insight into a day in the life of a CEO who is working hard alongside her team from 5.15am – 9pm.

Amanda puts the success of turning around a struggling mining business in 12 months down to leadership, and four ‘essential ingredients’, including having the right skills, working hard, effectively engaging with people and, lastly, having fun and celebrating success.

Amanda said that at the end of the day, there was no substitute for hard work and bringing your best effort. In a male-dominated industry, she prides herself on leading her team and organisation to the best of their abilities. Amanda has gone above and beyond star charts to earn respect for her smarts from her peers in the industry, and to prove herself as a corporate turnaround expert – and exceptional leader.

The final PWN event for the year was set against the backdrop of gorgeous city lights on a balmy Spring evening in the Arts Centre Foyer, as we welcomed Old Girl and renowned internationally successful fashion designer and St Margaret’s parent Keri Craig-Lee (’75).

Keri shared her life’s journey, from the challenges to some of the lighter moments along the way. What was most evident, even in her most amusing anecdotes, was Keri’s boldness in always finding a way through or over any barriers that stood between her and the achievement of her goals. At the time she was launching her fashion label, Sydney and Melbourne completely dominated the Australian fashion industry. Keri said she received a lot of “Oh, you’re from Brisbane” comments, and it was extremely tough to achieve national success.

“I learnt not to give up, to persevere, do your best and give it 110%,” she said.

One gets the impression from hearing Keri talk that being told ‘no’ was certainly never the end of the matter! The day channel ten executives told Keri she would be unable to play her beloved Frank Sinatra music when her collections were presented due to music laws changing, undeterred, she simply contacted Frank Sinatra’s office and received his permission and blessing.

Keri finished by telling the crowd of over 80 guests that being a past St Margaret’s girl was an honour and a privilege.

“I am grateful to my parents for realising the importance of a great school and education, and, for going without to enable me that opportunity,” she said.

St Margaret’s would like to recognise once again our generous corporate sponsors across the four PWN events: Ray White – Sonya Treloar Properties; KPMG; Lynas Corporation Ltd; Ernst & Young; and Patersons Securities Limited.

We would also like to recognise the work of our Director of Development Lu Wishart and her team, under whose guidance and hard work these events have flourished in 2015. Finally, a thank you to all those who have attended the PWN series this year, supported the raffles and invited your friends and business colleagues to join you. We hope you have enjoyed growing your network and we look forward to seeing you in 2016 to hear from more inspiring guest speakers.

St Margaret’s networking events take flight

OpendaySt Margaret's

SATURDAY 5 MARCH 2016

Open morningTHURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2016

For all enrolment enquiries call our Registrar on (07) 3862 0777 or email [email protected]

Enrol online at www.stmargarets.qld.edu.qu

MAY27& 28

ARTS FESTIVAL

www.mayofestival.com.au

2016

St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School 11 Petrie Street Ascot QLD 4007 Australia Telephone: +61 7 3862 0777 Facsimile: +61 7 3862 0701 [email protected] www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au St Margaret’s School Council Ltd ABN: 69069684019 CRICOS Code: 00511K A School of the Society of the Sacred Advent

www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au

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