2015 School Magazine

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

CONTENTS

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

03

SENIORS

52

FROM THE HEAD GIRLS

04

CREATIONS

64

COMMUNITY

05

CURRICULUM

79

SERVICE

25

CO-CURRICULUM

107

HOUSES

33

SPORT

131

EDITORIAL ISOBELLE PEAT (12G) PUBLICATIONS CAPTAIN

For all Grammar girls, 2015 could not have been any bigger. The introduction of Year 7 and the opening of the new Research Learning Centre was a tremendous way to celebrate and commemorate 140 years of Brisbane Girls Grammar School. Despite questions surrounding how a young cohort would fit into the high school environment, the Year 7s quickly displayed their confidence and maturity through their transition into Grammar life. It was this reassurance that evoked a year of wonderful memories and established a new chapter of the School. For the second year running, the Publications Committee welcomed the Year 11 cohort to take part in the process of putting together the School Magazine. The committee worked tirelessly from the beginning of Term I, collecting articles, working with designers, and attending co-curriculum events to capture the images that fill these pages. All of the girls would agree that while this is undoubtedly a laborious job, it is an extremely rewarding experience. The Magazine this year aims to embrace our school spirit and reflect on the achievements of the girls, both old and new. In a Term I BGGS News article, 2015 Head Girls Natalia Gulbransen-Diaz (12W) and Jacinta MacGinley (12B) likened Girls Grammar to a kaleidoscope; a true illustration of what it means to be a Grammar Girl. ‘ There are so many different facets, different aspects of the School to see, yet every single image is equally precious’.

It was this abstract and colourful visual that inspired this year’s cover. The motif of hexagons and array of colours seek to embody the diversity of the School. On behalf of the Publications Committee, we hope that you enjoy this year’s Magazine .

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2015 Publications Committee (L-R) Sally Boden (11B), Ciaran Greig (11B), Emma Kendall (11B), Zoe Keck (12M), Jessica Collins (12G), Claire Levitt (12O), Gabriella Elgood (12O), Kia Davis (11R), Isobelle Peat (Publications Captain, 12G), Shiye Su (12R), Lucinda Conwell (11L) and Phoebe Keck (11M).

Principal Ms Euler with Elizabeth Cox (12R), Elizabeth Trusler (12E), Gabriella Pagano (12B), Natalie Saltisui (12O) and Jamila Cox (12R) at the unveiling of a painting by old girl Jan Jorgensen (Goeldner, 1960) commissioned to celebrate Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s 140th anniversary.

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FROM THE PRINCIPAL MS JACINDA EULER, PRINCIPAL Reflecting on the events of 2015, I feel very proud of the remarkable achievements of our School. It was a year that allowed us to add to the weave in the rich tapestry of our 140-year history, through the exuberant energy and colour of life at Girls Grammar. This year’s Magazine is a particularly special one. It records much more than just the accomplishments of 2015; it captures the spirit, vitality and strength of our exceptional School and community, in a year when many major milestones were honoured and proudly celebrated. From the very first day we were charting a significant new direction in our history as we welcomed a double cohort of new students — our special and last Year 8 intake girls, and our first Year 7 students. Dressed impeccably in Grammar blue and white, they were eager to begin their lives as Grammar girls. Our physical spaces needed to grow and adapt to the changing shape of our student body, and we were thrilled that the Research Learning Centre — an impressive and stunningly beautiful new library and learning space — was ready for the first day of the academic year. The strong Year 12 student leadership body provided a wonderful foundation for the year ahead with the announcement of the 2015 motto: ‘Inspire your sisters old

and new, 140 years in royal blue.’ This inspiring motto was evident on many occasions throughout the year, at special events such as the official naming of the Rangakarra Recreational and Environmental Education Centre at Fig Tree Pocket, in the spontaneous applause for the soloists at the Interhouse Choral Competition — no matter what House the girl was performing for — or in the quiet moments where girls were forming friendships that will last far beyond their time at School. Staff and students continued to strive to achieve their very best in 2015, across all areas of academic and co-curricular pursuit. It was rewarding to affirm our foundations and honour those who have brought us thus far, including: Sir Charles Lilley’s vision to provide the finest education for girls; the outstanding women who have provided strong and inspired leadership throughout the years; the extraordinary teachers who have always understood exceptional scholarship and how to deliver it; and the remarkable girls who have embraced all that Girls Grammar has to offer and then venture out into the world inspired to put their fine education to good use. For the graduating class of 2015, it has been a truly unforgettable year. When you leave Girls Grammar I hope that you take with you the dedication and joy embodied in the pages of this Magazine , and go with confidence to make your mark upon the world.

Throughout the year the Student Council hosted numerous themed days, from Valentine’s Day to Blue Day, not only putting culinary skills to the test, but fostering pride and spirit within the School. Blue Days in particular, allowed us to celebrate the hard work and dedication of all the sportswomen who achieve remarkable results in the QGSSSA competition throughout the year. In light of our 140th birthday, the Student Council implemented a number of significant and exciting initiatives we hope will become lasting traditions. A particularly important initiative was the commemoration at the memorial of the Christmas Creek tragedy. Although we have always remembered the tragedy as a school, this year all staff and students placed a coloured rose petal at the foot of the memorial on the anniversary. This was a poignant reminder of the significance of the tragedy, and a respectful tribute we hope will be continued. White Blouse Day was introduced to promote awareness of ovarian cancer, a disease which affects many women in our community. This year, with the help of the Mothers Group, we raised $9000 to donate to the Ovarian Cancer Council in an attempt to make a difference. Each girl in the School was given a small white lady inscribed with a fact about ovarian cancer. The girls then placed their ladies inside a larger figure on the pool lawn, creating a giant white lady, a moving and symbolic display visible from the CLC. 2015 marked the arrival of the inaugural Year 7s and our Year 8 buddies. For us, it was really exciting to integrate this new age group into an increasingly diverse school and overcome challenges that arose with accommodating a new cohort. The Research Learning Centre opening and Rangakarra naming were also significant events on the School calendar which provided the opportunity for all members of the Grammar community to celebrate the facilities and campuses which will take the Grammar Sisterhood into the future. The Cubberla Witton Catchment Network, the Mary River Catchment Committee and the Big Scrub restoration projects — local and national charities — were selected by the Service Captains and the Student Council at the start of the year as the School charities. These charities were the focus of numerous Grammar Goes Green days and initiatives, such as the re-instatement of the ANZAC Grove, as we reminded ourselves of the importance and beauty of the Earth. These occasions reflect the exceptional scholarship which typifies Girls Grammar, and allows us to contribute to our community. Finally, as we approach the end of a major milestone in our lives, we would like to give our greatest thanks to the girls who helped us so much this year. To all girls, thank you for your ongoing support and excitement. Your eagerness to participate in every activity we threw at you motivated us to give you our everything. To the girls of Student Council, thank you so much for your creativity, your dedication and your humour. You were the most beautiful support system we could have ever asked for and we are eternally grateful for your spirit and enthusiasm. We wish success for every girl in the future, especially the 2016 Year 12s in the next major phase of their lives. We know you will face every challenge with wisdom, imagination and integrity.

HEAD GIRLS REPORT NATALIA GULBRANSEN-DIAZ (12W) AND JACINTA MACGINLEY (12B) HEAD GIRLS 2015 has been a blend of remarkable experiences and nostalgia. We not only celebrated the rich history of the School but also forged its future, establishing new traditions and new memories. In 2015, we wanted Grammar girls to be passionate, embrace the sisterhood, and celebrate the history of the School. That is why, in our 140th year, it was fitting to have the motto: It is important for girls to feel they are an active part of the Grammar Sisterhood. The term ’sisters’ reinforces our belief that Grammar is a family, with girls supporting one another and fostering an open, enthusiastic environment. There is nothing more special than girls forging friendships with those in a different cohort, or seeing a Grammar sister outside the school and having an instantaneous connection. The Sisterhood is vaster than the current students: it encompasses both past and future sisters, allowing generations of Grammar girls to connect. Passion was prominent this year. In Term II, the Sisterhood was particularly evident, with hordes of Grammar girls encouraging the cross country team at the QGSSSA competition. The girls’ excitement and enthusiasm was palpable. The girls also showcased great moves on the D-Floor as well as dedication to all school activities. Not only did we want to girls to be passionate this year, but we wanted them to be proud of their passions and have the confidence to join that club, compete in that interhouse event, or to simply connect with their Grammar sisters. ‘Inspire your sisters, old and new; 140 years in royal blue.’

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BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2015 COMMUNITY

BI-GRAMMAR TIANA HOOLE (12R)

Bi-Grammar is an event held every term that involves a competition between Boys Grammar, and Girls Grammar, during lunch time. This year, we followed tradition by playing touch football on the boy’s field, and netball here in our sports centre. Our first game of touch started off with a bang, and the girls were all very excited. We had all senior touch girls play for us, against the rugby boys next door. To our surprise, the boys won but needless to say it was an enjoyable, competitive, and very hot day, with so much cheering and support by everyone. However, when it was their turn to step on our turf, we were determined to take a win in netball. The Open and Senior A netball players had this in the bag, and skilfully snagged a win against the boys. It was a close game, and the atmosphere in the gym was full of rivalry and laughter. Because this was a home game,

students were able to come and watch us play in the sports centre with a gold coin entry, so we had a great number of supporters.

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DIVERSITY DAY JOSEFINE GANKO (12R)

On 20 May, BGGS celebrated Diversity Day. To mark this occasion, the Uralla Club held a discussion forum on the culture and tradition of Indigenous Australia, as well as the adversity that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community still faces. Our panel consisted of various distinguished guests, including Torres Strait Islander musician Chris Tamwoy, a representative of the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME), Robbie Miller, QUT associate lecturer Marnee Shay, Adam Brunton of QUT’s Oodgeroo Unit, Mundanarra Bales of ‘The Black Card’, as well as Anna McArthur- Dowty (12R), a representative of the Uralla Club. The discussion, moderated by myself, ranged from reconciliation to the use of correct terminology, and from the closing of Indigenous communities to Australia Day. The forum was followed by an incredible music performance from Chris Tamwoy, with his unique sounds stunning everyone in attendance. All of the attendees were enlightened by the conversation, and left with a greater understanding of the Indigenous Australian experience.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE GHISLAINE ASHLEY (12W)

On 8 March, I attended an event at Government House with Ms Euler, celebrating International Women’s Day alongside a number of very important people. Upon my arrival I met a group of women who helped preserve documents in the State Archives, a navy officer, and the principals and student representatives from Somerville House, All Hallows’ School and Indooroopilly State High School. Once we all entered Government House, a gong was sounded and Queensland Governor His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC entered with his wife, Kaye, and gave a short speech. He talked about the importance of women in everyday life, the role we play in society, and the struggles that we have

yet to overcome. Most importantly, he spoke about the need for equality for women in the workplace, given the alarming statistic that despite the number being an all-time high, the percentage of women CEOs is still only 4.8 per cent. After this food for thought, the guests, most of whom were prominent and important women from all around Queensland, were free to chat and mingle. Despite the room being quite noisy, I managed to meet a state defence lawyer, and former member of the Australian Cricket Team, and current member of the Queensland Cricket Team, Jodie Fields. I had a wonderful time, and it was such an amazing experience to meet so many inspirational women.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST FREYA JENSEN (12G)

I was honoured to attend the International Women’s Day Breakfast. I thoroughly enjoyed the morning, particularly the panel discussion on ‘Let’s not wait another twenty years to achieve gender equality’. I was intrigued by the comments regarding the role men have in advocating gender equality, and was pleasantly surprised by the large number of men that attended. As a member of the younger generation, the idea of modern platforms such as social media and advertising gimmicks being used to promote equality strongly resonated with me.

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FOUNDATION DAY PHOEBE KECK (11M) Every year, Brisbane Girls Grammar School celebrates its birthday on 15 March. However, due to it falling on a Sunday this year, it was celebrated on the previous Friday, 13 March. The celebration this year was particularly special as it was combined with the opening of the Research Learning Centre (RLC) and Year 7 area, as part of the School’s 140th anniversary. The day began with a ceremony outside the RLC with many special quests in attendance, including Queensland Governor His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, the Chair of the Board of Trustees Ms Jameson (Head Girl, 1982) and Principal Ms Euler. Following this was a formal assembly, continuing the celebrations. The symphonic winds band and percussion ensemble presented some wonderful performances, which were widely enjoyed. After assembly, the whole school gathered to receive their 140 Years commemoration badge. This was a fabulous way to end one era and start a new one. To finish off the celebrations, the annual blue and white cake was handed out to students. Overall, this was a very momentous occasion that will go down in the history of the School.

COMMUNITY

RANGAKARRA NAMING DAY ZAHRA KNIGHTS (12R)

On Saturday 23 May, the new Fig Tree Pocket sports campus was officially named, as part of the School’s 140th anniversary celebrations. At the opening ceremony the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Ms Elizabeth Jameson (Head Girl, 1982), announced Grammar’s newest campus as the Rangakarra Recreational and Environmental Education Centre, a name taken from our school war cry. Ms Jameson also revealed that the main playing field would be named the ‘Daphne Welch (1949) Oval’ after Mrs Daphne Pirie (Welch, 1949), an old girl of the school who was a Queensland track and field champion and represented Australia in hockey. The School was also fortunate enough to be presented with new front gates for the campus, donated by the Old Girls’ Association. Two symbolic plantings,

an ANZAC Grove and the planting of ‘Learning Trees’, also took place. Following the official ceremony, hockey and cricket teams gave sporting demonstrations, and there were musical performances by the Jazz Ensemble, Stage Band, Big Band and Contemporary Ensemble. Daphne Pirie also proved a ‘good sport’ in more than one sense as she borrowed a hockey stick to participate in some ball play on the oval named in her honour. Overall, the day provided a great preview of what is to become of the fields. The new campus will offer the School their first home ground, allowing Grammar girls to pursue co-curricular activities in an environment of which they can be proud.

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OPEN DAY BRIANNA BLACK (12L)

Open Day is one of the most anticipated events on the Girls Grammar calendar. In 2015, the Grammar community once again put an enormous effort into organising fun-filled and informative activities and displays. This event provided the girls with an opportunity to undertake responsibilities which supported their academic and co-curricular groups. From the unmistakable scent of the Father’s Group sausage sizzle, to the twinkling fairy lights filtering through the gardens, this year’s Open Day was unforgettable. With the brand- new Research Learning Centre and the introduction of the bubbly and enthusiastic Year 7s, the 2015 Open Day was larger than ever. All in all, Open Day not only reached out and connected our School community, but also spread the Grammar spirit far and wide.

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COMMUNITY

MARRAPATTA OPEN DAY GEORGINA RANKIN (11H)

The Marrapatta Memorial Outdoor Education Centre Open Day was a great success, with many enjoying the scenic drive up the Bruce Highway to see the destination Grammar girls call their second home. Marrapatta encourages girls to set personal goals, challenges and to appreciate the surrounding environment and Open Day was the perfect opportunity to showcase all the activities on offer. It was also an ideal time to say thank you the local community whose properties are often overrun with Girls Grammar tents, orientation tours or cross country runs!

While some guests wandered up to the Year 7 camping terraces to take in the magnificent view, others, including a group of old girls celebrating their 60 Year Reunion, enjoyed guided tours of the main campus centre before heading to the much anticipated high ropes demonstration at the Stamford Challenge Ropes Course. The Fathers Group provided a classic BBQ and Mothers Group helped the Antipodeans to provide coffee and baked goods. Open Day really gives the Girls Grammar community the opportunity to see what we get up too when at camp and a better understanding as to why we come home exhausted, but energised!

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RESEARCH LEARNING CENTRE OPENING ISOBELLE PEAT (12G)

In conjunction with celebrating the School’s 140th birthday, as well as the addition of a Year 7 cohort, 2015 marked the opening of Brisbane Girls Grammar School’s Research Learning Centre (RLC) adjacent to Gregory Terrace. A select number of senior girls had the privilege of meeting Queensland Governor His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC who officially opened the new five storey, $17.4m facility. Principal Ms Jacinda Euler said this incredible addition to the school was developed to ‘inspire a new era in libraries and learning’.

Having had many classes scheduled there and numerous hours of private study, I can testify to the building’s functionality. I’m sure all girls would agree that we truly benefit from all of the resources the RLC possesses and are very appreciative that we have access to such an inspirational space.

The School’s heart was aflutter as students and staff decked out themselves, and the School, in red and pink, danced their heart out to their favourite love songs on the much-loved dance floor, and helped raise funds for the school charity by buying an icy-pole from the Student Council.

VALENTINE’S DAY EMMA KENDALL (11B)

This year’s Valentine’s Day celebrations marked the first and most spirited

event in the Brisbane Girls Grammar School calendar.

WHITE BLOUSE DAY 2015 ANNA MCARTHUR-DOWTY (12R) AND JOSEFINE GANKO (12R)

On 28 May, Girls Grammar celebrated its inaugural White Blouse Day, raising money and awareness for ovarian cancer. The main event on the day was our installation of Phoebe, the white blouse lady. Each girl placed a white cut-out of a lady on the pool lawn, which together created a larger lady — Phoebe. The girls were encouraged to write a message of hope on their lady, so together Phoebe represented our awareness of this cancer and pledge to help fight for a cure. When they placed their lady on the lawn, girls removed their ties for the day, leaving the School a sea of white blouses. The Student Council held a white bakestall, and in conjunction with the Mother Daughter dinner, raised $9058 which will go towards helping to beat this cancer.

COMMUNITY

YEAR 11 CHARITY SOCIAL ROSIE CAVDARSKI (11W), LILI WACKWITZ (11H), SALLY CLARK (11G), MADDIE GOSS (11H) AND RYLIE COOKE (11W) On 25 July, Year 11 students from Brisbane Grammar School and Brisbane Girls Grammar School came together for an evening to remember. This year’s theme was ‘New York Nights’ and the room was positively buzzing with the energy of the city that never sleeps. The social committee, along with Mrs Boltman, Mrs Dabelstein and Mr Hales organised photography, music, and décor that represented the iconic city.

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All the girls looked absolutely amazing and the boys equally dapper. We know everyone had a really fantastic night making new friends, dancing the night away and raising funds for our chosen charity, Destiny’s Rescue. After experiencing this year’s social, we are all very excited for the prospect of the senior formal.

COMMUNITY

YEAR 12 FORMAL EMMA COCKBURN (12M) AND JAMILA COX (12R), FORMAL CHAIRS The senior formal was an incredible night for the 2015 Year 12 cohort. Fittingly themed Grecian Goddess, the Year 12s looked like radiant goddesses. The room was transformed with décor consisting of huge walls filled with projections of Grecian columns, a time lapse of stunning scenery from Greece, intricate candelabra centerpieces and an abundance of themed busts.

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A highlight of the night was a beautiful harpist serenading the girls upon entrance. A flash mob took over the dance floor with their well-rehearsed moves to a remix of Beyoncé’s hits Love on Top and Crazy in Love. Thanks must go to the choreography team for their organisation of the dance and rehearsals. The preparation of the flash mob was a uniting moment for the cohort as every girl worked together for the performance on the night. As part of the formal, it is a tradition for girls to raise funds for a charity of their choice. Last year’s cause Destiny’s Rescue — a foundation that exists to end child sexual exploitation and slavery in Asia — was so well received that the cohort once again chose to fundraise for them at the formal. Very special thanks must go to Mrs Harvey- Short, Ms Stark and the senior formal committee for their strenuous preparation and thoughtful decision- making. The night was a complete success; an incredible and memorable moment for the girls that will be something we will treasure forever.

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COMMUNITY

BLUE DAY JESSIE COOKE (12O)

Blue Day is a highlight of every girl’s term. It’s the day we all decorate in our diaries, deck ourselves out in shades of blue and dance at lunchtime until we’re rushed back to period 5. The focus of our Blue Days in 2015 was the importance of celebrating all fixtures of the respective season and symbolising the amazing support they receive, bringing together hundreds of students. A recurring theme has been the idea of ‘blue day fever’. Like a fever, the excitement of a big Girls Grammar event spreads. It starts with a cough: one swimmer getting excited for the QGSSSA competition. Then she tells her friend, passing on the fever. The whole school is eventually ‘sneezing’ in unison. This is the epidemic of enthusiasm. It starts with one person, but can affect thousands. In 2015 the Student Council made the decision that we had outgrown our old dance floor location, CLC level 3, and the pool lawn would be a more fitting alternative.

A larger area meant that more people had the opportunity to get involved, especially the new Year 7 and 8s. A tightly packed d-floor can be daunting! The Student Council’s Blue Day stalls this year have included icy poles and hot chocolate, depending on the season. These stalls have been extremely successful in raising funds for the school charity — reducing BGGS‘s impact on our environment. This year’s Blue Days have taught us that there is no immunisation programme for excitement and celebration!

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BOOKS2DEVOUR MACADA ROEBIG (12H)

Books2Devour is the School’s annual cake decorating competition that sees the creative marriage of literature and fine art produce bright and breathtaking cakes. The Libellum Society runs this annual event to encourage students of all ages to show their love for, and interpretation of, their favourite books from all genres and time periods. This year’s competition saw the standard of the cakes reach a new high, with both first-timers and more experienced girls producing art that surprised and delighted staff and students alike.

A record number of entries were received this year, showing that the competition continues to captivate and inspire Grammar girls old and new. With themes ranging from picture books to young adult fiction and the classics, the diversity of the students’s interests really shone through. Many of the cakes approached professional standard in both creativity and execution. Books2Devour also provides the opportunity for girls to get together outside of school hours and bond over their love of literature, with a large number of cakes being presented by groups or pairs in 2015. As a much- loved competition for readers, bakers and spectators, Books2Devour has cemented its spot in the school calendar and is sure to delight for years to come.

ARTS FEST MADELEINE GANDHI (12O) AND SOPHIE MCKENDRY (12H)

That’s a wrap. In Week 2 of Term II the CLC was brought to life by Arts Fest — a three day extravaganza of arts events and the culmination of weeks of planning from the Arts Crew. With the School’s 140th anniversary this year, there has been a large focus on looking to the past and the future with the aim of leaving a legacy. What will you leave behind? As the Arts Captains of 2015, we wanted buzz. Through our Arts Fest initiative, we hoped to cultivate, showcase and celebrate the passion and skill we see in all our artsy Grammar sisters. We started out with a small idea: involving yourself in the arts is a truly special experience. With the goal of communicating this message to the entire student body, this idea manifested into a three-day festival where we invited all girls to get their inner ‘art’ beats pumping. With the help of our Arts Crew, the details of these three days were meticulously pitched, planned, vetoed, organised and problem-solved with a fine tooth comb to achieve our ultimate goal; generating interest for, and thereby raising the profile of, arts within the School. Looking back, we can proudly say that these goals were achieved. Arts Fest was certainly a holistic success, yet each individual event proved to be a success in its own way. Visual art had a strong presence throughout the week, with our Visual Art Captain Nyssa Johnston (12W) creating an installation piece inspired by Yoko Ono, where girls wrote and attached their wishes to streamers which were thrown off the CLC to form a colourful waterfall. Additionally, our caricatures initiative was a huge hit, with girls lining up and down the walkway to

have a creative portrait drawn by Year 12 Art students every lunch. Furthermore, to mark the 140th year of Arts at Girls Grammar, Year 12 art students designed and painted a mural for the School throughout the week. With a modern graphic design, these girls not only showcased their creativity and talent but demonstrated the progression of contemporary art over the years. From a drama perspective, our Year 11s exhibited their Term I assessment work with physical theatre performances in the mornings and at morning tea around the School. Carrying on a legacy from last year’s Arts Captains, our Choir Captain Jo Wilson (12L) and Juliette Seiple (12L) ‘busked’ outside Main Building one morning, providing a pleasant soundtrack as everyone filed into school. The Contemporary Ensemble and Gypsy Band performed during lunch times to large and appreciative crowds. Even dance was exhibited during Arts Fest, with a flash mob surprising the student body on Tuesday lunchtime. Having rehearsed for weeks, Grammar Dance showcased their abilities with incognito Year 12 students joining in at the end. With colourful streamers draped across the dance floor, the result was joyous and truly a sight to behold. Of course, there are still things to learn from for next year’s captains to take on board. We wish them good luck should they decide to continue such an event and we hope all the girls look back on this week fondly and with excitement! With glowing feedback from staff and students alike, we can proudly report the Girls Grammar inaugural Arts Fest was everything we wanted it to be.

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COMMUNITY

FATHER DAUGHTER DINNER CAITLIN O’MEARA (11R)

The Father Daughter Dinner was a great success once again this year. We were treated to an amazing musical performance by the Gillies Ensemble winners, Isabella Busby (11M), Linh-Dan Pham (11O) and Linnea Cain (11W). My dad was particularly amused at the small uniform shop guest speaker, Mr McCready, had acquired with a family of five Grammar girls. It was a great opportunity to catch up with my dad amidst a very busy term and to get to know other girls in the School and their fathers. Mr McCready made an interesting point in his speech about how fathers always miss out on photos with their daughters because they are always the ones behind the camera, so my dad and I made sure to take home the picture we had taken that night!

MOTHER DAUGHTER DINNER SOPHIE MCKENDRY (12H) AND MADELEINE GANDHI (12O)

This year’s Mother Daughter dinner was a wonderful night held at the Victoria Park Golf Course in May. Usually the night’s entertainment consists of a student debate, but in the School’s 140th year it was time for something new. Ringing true to our 2015 motto, ‘inspire your sisters old and new, 140 years in royal blue’, the night’s entertainment took all guests on a journey of the various uniforms sported by old and new Grammar

girls over the last 140 years in a fun and laughter-filled fashion parade. It was a wonderful night for all who attended, giving a chance for mothers and daughters to enjoy each other’s company and mix with friends, old and new. Also lovely was the opportunity as a current Grammar girl to meet future students, and give them some insight into all the great things they can expect as new Grammar sisters.

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SOMERVILLE DEBATE ALEXANDRIA BROWN (12G) AND VARAYNA VASUDEVAN (12W) DEBATING CAPTAINS

In February, a team of three Senior A debaters Angela Goggin (12G), Emma Cockburn (12M) and Josefine Ganko (12R), participated in the annual pre-season ‘friendly’ Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Somerville

House debate. Money was raised via voting buckets and donations at the door, and these contributions went towards charities supported by both schools. This year, the majority of the collections were donated to the Women’s Legal Services group which provides free legal and social support to Queensland women. The remainder was allocated towards our school charity — environmental causes. The topic this year was ‘That veganism can save the planet’. The debate was competitive, vibrant, and witty from both teams. Although our girls were narrowly defeated, they greatly appreciated the feedback provided by guest adjudicator and old girl, The Honourable Justice Margaret A McMurdo AC (1971). We hope this tradition continues as it is a great start to the debating season and the number of BGGS supporters present was incredible.

CAREERS MENTORING BREAKFAST ZOE KECK (12M)

On 17 March, Year 11 and 12 girls attended a Careers Mentoring Breakfast organised by Mr Seaha. The main purpose of this breakfast is to allow senior students to explore occupations which they are considering, through interaction with mentoring professionals. Specialists from careers such as Engineering, Actuary, Science, Business and Law answered questions regarding OPs, university courses, what it is like to work

in a particular field, and job opportunities, especially from a woman’s perspective. We also enjoyed a lecture from guest speaker Ms Olivia Degn (2008). After three rotating sessions of mentoring, we all departed with extended knowledge of our chosen career paths. This breakfast was very beneficial as we were given the chance to hear from women who were in our position only a few years ago.

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COMMUNITY

LEADERSHIP AT GIRLS GRAMMAR

HOUSE GROUP CAPTAINS BRYLEIGH PARSONS-POPE (7B) In Semester One, I took on the role of 7 Beanland House Group Captain, along with Kate Edmonston. In this position, our main job was to be a role model for our peers and organise getting-to- know-you activities for the class to participate in. We organised games to play in house group and lunchtime activities, including an easter egg hunt, pancake breakfasts and games to play. We offered organisational tips to help build a strong bond between us that will last for the next five years and beyond. On behalf of our Year 7 cohort, Kate and I also participated in the 140th anniversary ceremony and the opening of the new library, as well as supplying some ideas for the Student Council to think about. It has been an easy yet enjoyable role to take on and an honour to have represented my house group and I sure hope to do it again.

Year 7 House Group Captains helped organise an easter scavenger hunt for the youngest cohort.

JUNIOR EXECUTIVE FORCE (JEF)

As a new student at Girls Grammar, being chosen as House Captain for Year 9 Griffith has been a privilege. Being House Captain has given me a chance to involve myself with JEF by going to regular meetings and discussing issues regarding the student body. It has given me a very important role in the school community and the position has also come with responsibilities which have provided me with a chance to show that I am a good leader. This title has also made me consider future leadership possibilities in the higher grades. So far I have enjoyed the experience immensely and with the support of my peers I will continue to thrive. BIDISHA ROY (9R) JEF is a leadership group of all Year 9 House Group Captains that meet regularly during the semester of their House Captain tenure. The 2014 Semester Two JEF group established the motto, ‘We’re the voice but you have the choice’, to represent the group. JEF meets every alpha Monday in the library to discuss a variety of issues from tissues in classrooms to increasing the number of printers. Any concerns received are discussed and we put together our ideas to come up with the best possible solution. LOUISE RAINBIRD (9G) AND GRACE TENG (9G)

The JEF committee embraces its motto ‘We have the voice but you have the choice’, which acts as the basis for our meetings and projects. The group meets fortnightly to discuss feedback from students and ways to improve the learning environment at Girls Grammar. The purpose of JEF is to give the junior school leadership positions and the younger students a voice in the larger school community. It also aims to have strong integration between the different year levels. JEF is a really rewarding experience and teaches leadership skills, which is great preparation for the positions offered in the senior school. I really encourage people to get involved whether it be through the events JEF organises, as a direct member of the committee or by contributing your opinions and ideas. EMILIA WEEDEN (9O)

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JEF is a programme for all Year 9 House Group Captains. We attend meetings every fortnight in the library. It is interesting to see our problems solved after they are addressed at the meetings. JEF is a really great experience as it gives insight into future leadership opportunities. In the future, I would like to pursue a leadership position as it is extremely rewarding to make your mark on the school. MADELINE PREBBLE (9E)

LORD MAYOR’S YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL HILARY BUI (10E) The Lord Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (LMYAC) is held annually to discuss issues that will impact Brisbane, particularly the youth, in the future. It comprises one representative from almost every school in the Greater Brisbane region. This year, I was fortunate to represent Girls Grammar. With meetings running every term, I have been able to diversify my connections with other school students of the same age and interests, as well as provide valuable contributions and ideas to the Council for discussion. For example, to unite the youth across Brisbane, my delegates and I proposed a MasterChef and Amazing Race competition where all teenagers were invited to participate. I also had the privilege of being invited to, and attending, various ceremonies and events, such as the Australian National Flag Day Ceremony, held on 3 September. Attending these types of events has enabled me to show my appreciation and make a small contribution to the wider Brisbane community. In terms of giving back to our School, I have initiated and spread awareness about various events the council holds, for example, World Refugee Day and the Love Young Adults Festival. The Council has also provided me with plentiful opportunities to improve my leadership skills. They have offered for me to attend their leadership workshops as well as Halogen’s National Young Leaders Week. STUDENTENVIRONMENT LEADERSHIP NETWORK ALICIA TONIO (10O) Earlier this year, Girls Grammar announced it would select two Year 10 students to represent the school in the Student Environmental Leadership Network (SELN) organisation run by Brisbane City Council each year. I was selected along with Xuan-Nghi Pham (10O) to fill these roles. As I was new to the School, I was very eager to get involved with this service opportunity; however, I never expected to learn so much from my experience. In SELN we were required to attend numerous meetings across the year with more than fifty other students across Brisbane. The programme aims to support students as they brainstorm, develop and implement action plans to improve the school community environmentally. We were given numerous volunteer opportunities over the year including Homeless Connect, Youth Week and The Lord Mayors 100+ Afternoon Tea. Xuan-Nghi and I have proposed an efficient lighting scheme which includes the installation of LED lights within school buildings and we are eagerly waiting confirmation of the plan. Not only have I met like-minded people and made new friends, but I’ve also obtained leadership skills and been inspired to continue contributing to

From a leadership perspective, I have benefitted in countless ways. The supportive atmosphere of staff and students alike has offered myriad opportunities to share and benefit from one another. I have also improved my public speaking skills and increased my initiative in group projects. LMYAC has developed my interest in leadership and inspired me to strive for excellence in leadership. I have certainly appreciated the privilege of participating in the Lord Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council and owe a debt of gratitude to the School for this wonderful opportunity.

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the community through service. Overall it has been a rewarding experience and I highly recommend the position for any students aspiring to make a positive change in our school.

COMMUNITY

INTERNATIONAL YOUNG LEADERS FORUM, NOVEMBER 2014 LINNEA CAIN (11W) AND EMMA VAN BAARLE (11M)

QUT FUTURE LEADERS EMILY POWELL (11E) At the start of this year I was selected to be part of a unique programme called QUT Future Leaders which offers students in Years 11 and 12 an opportunity to engage with QUT through a series of enrichment events. The events offered to us included a student leadership development day, an invitation to the Women of the World (WoW) Festival, a health innovation showcase, an entrepreneurial showcase and a trivia night. All of these events have broadened my perspectives on different aspects of the world and I have consequently developed a deeper appreciation for people’s own experiences and the knowledge that they have to share. The opportunities I have been offered have left me with a feeling of empowerment and confidence and I feel very fortunate to have been able to attend so many of their events. It has been extremely rewarding and I encourage others who are selected to take full advantage of this wonderful experience. During the development of the presentations and working with the international delegates, we recognised our cultural differences and how significantly these impacted on our different views and opinions. Despite the short time period, the connections we made and the skills we gained throughout the forum will definitely be useful in any field we decide to pursue. To experience at this age, a conference on an international level, was an unforgettable opportunity that we all found rewarding and incredibly enjoyable. IYLF opened our eyes and gave us a better understanding of how to deliver our personal views in discussions in a respectable and worldly manner.

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QUT Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Coaldrake AO presents Zahra Knights (12R) with her QUT Future Leaders completion certificate.

AUDACIOUS LEADERSHIP REPRESENTATIVES LILI WACKWITZ (11H)

Thank you so much for giving Jess Lakeman (11E) and myself the chance to attend Peer Power’s Audacious Leadership Forum. Not only did it give us a chance to meet some truly amazing people, but I found myself wanting to put forward my ideas, discuss openly my views and interact with people who I knew were passionate about leading and making a change. It is definitely an experience I would recommend to anyone who is open minded and interested in voicing their beliefs. I know that if I was given the option I would absolutely attend again. Everyone there was incredibly friendly, the staff were all very kind, and as a matter of fact we have already organised a follow up meeting! Again, thank you for the wonderful opportunity, it was definitely worth our while.

WOWWOMEN’S EVENT ZOE SKOIEN (10L) WOW (Women of the World) is a ‘global force supporting women’ that looks at the lives of strong women from all over the world. For three days in Brisbane, at the Queensland University of Technology, keynotes and performances were held that investigated important topics for women. On 19 June, nineteen students from Year 10, who were previous House Group Captains, attended the Women of the World Festival. We went to the Feminism 101 session, which explored the issues of gender stereotypes, the Welcome, the School Debate, where six of our students — Isabel Nolan (10B), Grace Mitchell (10R), Lucinda Duke (10H), Ayesha Kumar (10G), Abirami Somasundaram (10M) and Abigail Ashford (10R) — debated against each other, and many of us sat in on the Play Like a Girl panel, a panel of four women who revolutionised and continue to revolutionise women’s sport. Overall, I enjoyed the day greatly, and all the women who spoke were very inspiring. We, as BGGS students, are very fortunate to have a supportive community who celebrates the achievements of women. I believe the most important thing I have learnt from attending the WOW event is that women are capable of amazing things, and society’s views on gender roles should not stop us. Many thanks go to Ms Euler for allowing us to go, and Miss Johnson and Miss Cameron for attending the event with us.

HOUSE SERVICE LEADERS

My involvement as an O’Connor Service Leader, Second Chance Treasurer and United Nations Youth Club Captain has taught me that teamwork and commitment are the qualities that produce a good leader. Great commitment at Girls Grammar is exhibited by O’Connor’s fifteen-year loyalty to the Timor Children’s Foundation, acknowledged in the Foundation’s editorial. Similarly, teamwork and communication are essential as we student leaders interact with teachers, students, volunteers, the homeless and charity founders. Furthermore, to be a leader you must be patient, creative, persistent, enthusiastic, well-mannered and a good role model. Thank you BGGS for giving me this leadership opportunity; a valuable asset to my future. JOANNA JOHN (11O)

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The service community at this school has opened my eyes to the endless opportunities to give back to the School and my community, in turn giving me extremely rewarding experiences both in service and leadership. As part of the Service Crew and as Griffith House Service Leader, I have the opportunity to encourage younger grades to be involved in these gratifying acts. Partaking in various voluntary works made me feel brighter, knowing that I have touched so many hearts and given so many people a hand. Furthermore, it has allowed me to grow personally. This is why I have been encouraging more girls in my house to be involved and understand and experience this important commitment. Some of the volunteer work that I have done includes making sandwiches for ECB and selling ANZAC badges in the city. In addition, I am a member of Kirsten Jack Memorial Leukaemia Committee and have been assisting at a local special school for kids with disabilities as well as playing with orphans at an orphanage in Taiwan. I am very proud to be involved in these commitments as it reminds me of the importance of helping one another. Service will definitely be a part of my life after I graduate. Furthermore, my leadership position in service will always be with me as I continue to encourage others to participate in this rewarding, enjoyable and

worthwhile experience. MIA MAROUKA (11R)

COMMUNITY

BALANCE@BGGS MRS FORBES SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST AND STUDENT COUNSELLING COORDINATOR This year saw the launch of a new initiative from the Student Counselling Service: Balance@BGGS. The programme aims to enrich student wellbeing by encouraging balance in everyday life. Each term, students are encouraged to participate in a lunchtime, or before or after school session.Workshops about organisation, study skills and confident speaking; seminars regarding managing stress, navigating toxic relationships and adjusting to Year 7 and 8 as well as an Introduction to Mindfulness Course have been offered this year. Every Wednesday lunchtime Mr Pincott facilitates Wellness Wednesday where students are able to indulge in fifteen minutes of relaxation and mindfulness. Research suggests that mindfulness skills enhance mental health, resilience, executive functioning and empathy. Thus opportunities such as Wellness Wednesday are not only expected to allow students the chance to indulge in some quiet, relaxing time-out, but further contribute positively to their emotional health, social functioning and academic achievement. Term III saw the opening of the Balance Space and introduction of the Knitting Club. The Balance Space is an environment where students can engage in a game of Uno or Snakes & Ladders with friends, do some mindfulness colouring in or a jigsaw puzzle, grab a hot chocolate or herbal tea or relax on a bean bag. The space is technology free and students have been eager to explore and utilise the space for quiet reflection, making new friends, or chilling out. On Fridays the Balance Space hosts the Knitting Club. Students, along with many staff members, have learnt how to knit, share their skills with others, make an early Christmas gift or engage in knitting as a way to relax. We have been very fortunate to have two old girls, Mrs Jenny Sturgess (1969) and Mrs Sue Jordan (1967), generously offer their time to teach our Grammar Girls how to get started with their knitting. Decades of research have told us there is strong empirical evidence of the link between positive wellbeing and academic success. As such, Balance@BGGS has proved an exciting and worthy initiative for our School.

Girls meditating in the Balance Space.

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‘A place where you can be creative and relax’ (Year 7 students)

‘Happy and peaceful, I love seeing my progress with my knitting’ (Year 12 students)

‘It’s great to interact with other grades’ (Year 9 and 12 students)

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2015 SERVICE

have volunteered to help out with a number of events, including the selling of ANZAC merchandise in the city for the ANZAC Day Commemorative Council. A new service group was established this year. Time for Change meet once a term to organise events for each term, and communicate through a series of newsletters. In order to encourage service participation and junior membership, in Term II, we initiated the Service Expo, where we had displays for all of the service opportunities on the pool lawn. Girls could sign their name up or talk to the leaders. Another highlight of Term II was White Blouse Day, where we worked to raise both funds and awareness for ovarian cancer. The Junior Executive Force (JEF) has also contributed greatly to fundraising efforts this year. They started off their year by raising money for the Vanuatu cyclone victims in Term I, as well as helping to facilitate Steptember, an annual event raising money for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, our 2013 school charity. The Year 7 students joined the Year 8s in supporting the World Vision child sponsorship programme. The Year 7 and 8s also enjoyed participating and fundraising in the annual Jump Rope For Heart Jump-Off, continuing our twenty-year relationship with the Heart Foundation. The Service is in our DNA forum hosted by the Old Girls Association provided an opportunity for girls to hear from recent graduates and their experiences with service outside of school. Overall, 2015 has been another exceptional year for BGGS Service, and everyone who participated should be commended for their efforts. We would like to send our gratitude to all the service coordinators, Service Crew and their corresponding service clubs, as well as the Student Council, for their continuing support throughout the year. The Mothers Group has also contributed both time and funds to our service endeavours this year, for which we are extremely grateful. A particular thanks to the Director of Service, Mrs Mungomery, whose tireless work allowed our ideas to become a reality. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time as Service Captains, and were honoured to have the opportunity to inspire our sisters in service this year.

FROM THE SERVICE CAPTAINS JOSEFINE GANKO (12R) AND ANNA MCARTHUR-DOWTY (12R) This year’s school charity project aimed to reduce Girls Grammar’s effect on the environment by considering our impact and raising funds. We encouraged girls to not only donate their money, but also their precious time. Specifically, we asked students to assist with the Days for Girls packaging of sanitary kits to minimise the amount of school missed by girls in developing countries who don’t have access to sanitary supplies. This contributed to our goal of assisting at an international level. Our support on a national level extended to the Rainforest Rescue Big Scrub rehabilitation programme, which seeks to restore the Big Scrub Rainforest located in New South Wales between Byron Bay, Ballina and Lismore. At Grammar Goes Green working bees, we have continued to replenish the creek side of Cubberla Creek and enhance the surroundings of our local sport fields with trees and shrubs that will attract birds and butterflies. As the major fundraiser for our school charity, the Student Council and the Service Crew came together to host Greening the Blue in August. Over two days, we sold seedlings, kindly donated by the Lund family, taught girls about recycling through our recycling game, sold punny environment badges and made grass heads. All while enjoying our beautiful school environment, eating our lunches on the pool lawn and listening to a live performance by the Percussion Ensemble. This year, we wanted to increase the profile of the House Service Leaders and Service Club Leaders roles within the school through the formation of the Service Crew. The House Service Leaders have taken on the organisation of Year 10 service in their houses as well as successfully organising their house charities. The Service Crew has been a fundamental part of keeping service running so smoothly this year. They

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