Grammar Gazette- Issue 2, 2022

Issue 2, 2022 Volume 40

Purposeful Community Engagement

A Million Reasons Why . . . . 04 Global Citizens ............... 06 Marrapatta in the City ...... 10 The Minerva Bust ........... 28

On the cover

In 2022, Brisbane Girls Grammar School celebrated five years since our Dorothy Hill Observatory was officially launched. Since then, students have taken more than 28 900 images. The observatory has enabled Grammar girls to produce breathtaking images of the cosmos, as well as undertake peer-reviewed scientific research. To celebrate this milestone, our cover image comes from the 2022 Astronomy Competition Grand Prize Winner, Tara Mann (10G), who produced a captivating photo of The Veil Nebula.

Grammar Gazette Issue 2, 2022 | Volume 40 — Managing Editor: Ms Veena Herron, Director of Communications and Engagement Editors: Ms Jackie Hayes, Communications Manager Ms Felicity Coye, Senior Communications Officer For Gazette enquiries and comments: T +61 7 3332 1300 E communications@bggs.qld.edu.au To change your subscription to the Gazette from printed to electronic please email communications@bggs qld edu au

Printed in Brisbane on environmentally responsible paper.

Contents

02 From the Chair Ms Julie McKay Celebrating our purposeful and engaged BGGS community 03 From the Principal Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh Embracing our bright future

10 Marrapatta in the City If we can’t go to Marrapatta, Marrapatta will come to us

26 Astronomical Connections The observational astronomy program

12 Community Spirit The unifying force of music

28 A Bronze Gift for a Platinum Celebration The Roman goddess, Minerva, returns to BGGS

04 A Million Reasons Why A campaign of gratitude

16 Behind the Curtain With sound designer and theatre artist, Isabella Hall

30 A Serving Purpose A spark for serving still shines brightly

06 Global Citizens Valuing perspectives from far and wide

17 Incredible Alumnae

32 A Legacy of Generosity Celebrating 70 years of parent support

Achievements Queensland’s 2023 Rhodes Scholar

08 Higher, Further, Faster How sport builds community

24 In Their Words The magic of connection through experience

34 BGGS Giving Day A lifetime of possibilities

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Issue 2, 2022

From the Chair Celebrating our purposeful and engaged BGGS community

Ms Julie McKay Chair of the Board of Trustees

It is hard to pick a favourite season—each one brings its own unique characteristics and challenges that we either treasure and celebrate, or grit our teeth and work through, knowing that the next spell will be here all too soon. So too, it is difficult to choose a favourite School term for the very same reasons. However, I think that Term 4 has a special feeling of joy and exuberance. This feeling is reflected in the blossoming Jacarandas that accompany the farewell to our Year 12 students and the uplifting experience of Speech Day.

it will reinforce that for which we have stood since 1875—ensuring the provision of an exemplary broad liberal education for young women Underpinning these actions is a shared belief in the importance of community Our BGGS community is united in its support of our students and through the parent support groups, on the sidelines of sport or at special performances, and social gatherings, we have been reminded of how important that support has been through the last three years of this pandemic I extend my sincere thanks to our volunteers for everything they do The 70th Anniversary of the P&F this year was an opportunity to acknowledge their important work through the years In recognition of this significant milestone, a bronze bust of the Roman goddess, Minerva (page 28), was gifted to Girls Grammar P&F Association President, Dr Cate Campbell, celebrates the many contributions that this organisation has made to the School community (page 32), and President of the Fathers Group, Mr Hayden Wells, takes us behind the curtain to reveal what the group aims to achieve each year, and the importance of any, and all, contributions that support the School (page 33) As 2022 draws to a close, I wish you all a happy and restful holiday season and look forward to strengthening our Girls Grammar community even further in 2023 ■

At its core, Term 4 radiates community spirit , so it is fitting that our theme for this issue of Gazette is Purposeful Community Engagement—the goal of which is to maintain not only a strong community but a purposeful one In addition to creating a School community that shares a belief in the importance of educating women, and values the finest traditions and aspirations in education, we also want our students, teachers, parents, and alumnae to continue to be actively engaged in our community as well This can be by volunteering our time, through philanthropic efforts, by celebrating our successes, and by speaking positively of the School and the impacts a BGGS education can have on a girl’s life, and through them, the lives of many others While often used in relation to a geographic location, the first records of the word ‘community’ come from around 1325, from the Latin word, ‘commūnitās’, meaning ‘joint ownership or use’. Our community, our ‘joint ownership’ of the belief in a broad, liberal education for young women, has been at the forefront of BGGS for more than 147 years As the School approaches its 150th anniversary, we will be unveiling the next evolution of the School’s Strategic Design to see us through to this important milestone and beyond This document will articulate our priorities for the next four years, and guide significant School projects including master-planning work, environmental sustainability efforts, and the School’s Reconciliation Action Plan At its core, however,

above Ms Julie McKay speaking at the P&F Association's 70th anniversary celebration

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Issue 2, 2022

From the Principal Embracing our bright future

Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh Principal

‘Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it'. —Marian Wright Edelman

This quote by esteemed American author and civil rights activist, Marian Wright Edelman, can be seen in action at Brisbane Girls Grammar School in myriad ways. Each day, our teachers enrich the lives of Grammar girls by facilitating deep learning and critical thinking, allowing students to examine the world with fresh eyes and challenge the status quo Beyond the classroom, students engage in the many Service clubs and activities that the School offers, and beyond schooling, pursue careers that allow them to contribute to their world in meaningful ways We can also look at Edelman’s belief through the eyes of our BGGS parents who entrust their daughter’s education to our School, trusting that her life will be enriched, that she will develop into a confident young woman ready to take her place in the world Our alumnae continually return to share their experience and knowledge with students, whether via their mentorship, their coaching conversations, or through time in the classroom

medicine, wisdom, commerce, weaving, and the crafts. Already a much-loved addition to the School, we have seen numerous students seeking her out— pausing to admire her determination and resilience and to be inspired by all that she represents As we begin to develop the next iteration of our Strategic Design , which will see us through to and beyond the School’s sesquicentenary in 2025, we will continue to strengthen our civic ties, and maintain a culture of philanthropy where giving, in various ways, is a very natural and affirming part of being a member of the Brisbane Girls Grammar School community In our celebration of community engagement in this edition of Gazette , we highlight the BGGS commitment to being a ‘global citizen’ by engaging on both a national and international level through such channels as the Thoughtful Educators Conference and many episodes of the Illumine podcast (page 6). I hope you enjoy reading it. ■

What all these actions have in common is that they are rooted in improving lives through education— sharing of knowledge, of time, of tangible resources—for the betterment of our BGGS community, our society, our world In addition to marking our appreciation for volunteers, celebrating our support groups also sets a strong example to our current students about the value of getting involved in the community and making an impact Commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the P&F Association allowed us to step back and acknowledge how significant their impact has been since the organisation’s inception in 1952 In a testament to how well the P&F understands and cares for the BGGS spirit, they donated a majestic bronze bust of Minerva—the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, and the sponsor of arts, trade, and strategy— to commemorate the occasion An accomplished all-rounder, Minerva captures the School spirit perfectly, reputedly excelling at music, poetry,

above Principal, Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh, with students on Giving Day 2022

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A Million Reasons Why A campaign of gratitude

The scene was dazzling. A sparkling and glowing ‘tree’, blooming flowers, and BGGS mothers gathering— old friends, and new ones being made—to unite as a community and invest in their daughters’ education. Tucked discreetly underneath the pink-lit tree was a red letterbox and throughout the afternoon it was filled with heartfelt affirmations addressed to BGGS teachers, students, and professional staff.

This was the scene of the first Just Because campaign— an initiative launched by the School this year to rethread the needle of the BGGS community after two years of lockdowns, isolations, and quarantine The aim of these activities is to celebrate our inherent gratitude for one another, give our thanks for being part of this wonderful and supportive community, and to welcome newcomers with arms wide open This first initiative took place in Term 1 with students writing heart-warming postcards to their mothers to thank them for the joy and support that they bring to their lives. Some students thanked their mothers for the often overlooked day-to-day logistical support—rides to school, lunches made, general ferrying to co-curricular activities— and others acknowledged the deep emotional care that their mother provides and celebrated their impact on making them a better person. Students were filmed sharing their message, and the compilation was screened at the Autumn Luncheon, where surprise, tears, and laughter filled the room. BGGS mother, Ms Mary Jane Capp, expressed her appreciation for the activity. ‘The Just Because campaign is a wonderful way for the Girls Grammar community to band

together, particularly in the current climate, and it instils a very important message in ‘our girls’ as well—support, gratitude, kindness, and love ’ To ‘pay forward’ these expressions of gratitude, attendees of the luncheon were given the opportunity to write their own postcards to their daughter or a School staff member An overwhelming number of mothers wrote to BGGS teachers, and staff were gifted their postcards at the end of Term 1 Upon receiving her postcards, Ms Clare Finlayson, Coordinator of Choirs, said ‘As a teacher, so much of my day-to-day life is spent on logistics and finding solutions, so the impact of a note from a parent or student that lets you know that your efforts are seen and appreciated is felt deeply’ Head of Beanland House, Mrs Sacha Cross, was also moved by the messages penned to her. ‘Receiving the postcards from parents, with such genuine and thoughtful words of appreciation, gave a sense of assuredness that the care and support that I provide to their daughters, both academically and pastorally, is valued I have the postcards pinned to my board and read them when I need a lift’ she said ▶

above Bronte Stathis (12L) displaying her Dear Me postcard

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A Million Reasons Why

the community spirit of Girls Grammar beautifully with their messages, extending a personalised and warm welcome to future BGGS families The final act of the Just Because gratitude campaign took place at the end of Term 3 with BGGS fathers penning notes of support and gratitude to their daughters ahead of the Father and Daughter Dinner A screening of the fathers reading out their messages was shown at the event to the shock, delight, and at times, deep embarrassment of the girls Leading this initiative was President of the Fathers Group, Mr Hayden Wells, who revealed that ‘the goal of these messages is to share the often unsaid, but always felt, deep gratitude and sense of wonder that fathers feel towards their brave, resilient, and determined daughters’ The small but heartfelt actions of the Just Because activities touched many BGGS hearts this year, proving once again the extraordinary power of words, and their ability to move someone long after a message is read and tucked away for safekeeping ■ top left Mothers writing postcards to their daughters and School staff at the Autumn Luncheon top right A postcard recipient at the Incoming Parent and Daughter Dinner above left Head of Beanland House, Mrs Sacha Cross, receiving her messages from parents above A message addressed to incoming parents

In Term 2, the focus of the campaign switched to self gratitude, and every student in the School took time to write themselves a Dear Me postcard that was gifted back to them in Term 4 The Student Care team at the School encouraged the girls to write themselves a note of reflection and self-encouragement that they can read ahead of their final exams—one last reassurance from the person who ultimately knows them best The goal of the Term 3 initiative was to welcome incoming parents and students, so they arrive at BGGS in 2023 to a sea of familiar faces, equipped with welcoming words and helpful tips Championed by the Parents & Friends (P&F) Association and Mothers Group ahead of the inaugural Incoming Parent and Daughter, the From my family to yours activity invited current families to write words of welcome and wisdom to our incoming Year 7 families, which were then gifted at the dinner Messages included encouragement on how to thrive at BGGS such as ‘say yes to everything’, to practical suggestions including ‘early visits to Spotlight for House Party outfits’, and ‘accept that you will need to replace at least one hat and blazer’. Another favourite was ‘allow your daughter to take public transport to school—she will be alright’ Our current parents captured

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Global Citizens Valuing perspectives from far and wide

According to Oxfam, ‘A global citizen is someone who is aware of, and understands the wider world—and their place in it’. They are ‘citizens of the world’ and ‘take an active role in their community and work with others to make our planet more peaceful, sustainable and fair’.

Since its inception, Brisbane Girls Grammar School has adopted this philosophy to ensure that graduates have the educational foundation to contribute to their world with wisdom, imagination, and integrity. An international outlook and open-minded approach to life is cultivated through meaningful engagement with affiliate schools, our own diverse Girls Grammar community, and the wider world The inaugural Thoughtful Educators Conference held at the School in July was envisioned as a wonderful opportunity for BGGS staff to share what they have learned with like-minded professionals. World renowned educator and researcher from Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Project Zero , Dr Ron Ritchhart, was the keynote speaker and participant in a lively panel discussion During his visit, Dr Ritchhart also recorded an episode of Illumine with Principal, Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh. They discussed what a ‘culture of thinking’ is, why this is such an important foundation for student thinking and learning, and the key idea that through a series of small changes in teacher practice, big things can grow in the classroom and beyond, and thus, a ‘culture of thinking’ flourishes. Engaging with another international expert, Ms Euler Welsh hosted clinical psychologist and best-selling author, Dr Lisa Damour, in a special two-part episode of Illumine for Parents Together they discussed tactics on how to successfully navigate the many difficult conversations that parents often need to have with their adolescent daughters, including understanding teen friendships and ‘cancel culture’, negative online behaviours, and powerful teen emotions They concluded their candid conversation reminiscing and reflecting on how the period of adolescence, although hard at times, can be such a joyous and connected time for families. ▶

above right Dr Ron Ritchhart presenting at the Thoughtful Educators Conference right Dr Lisa Damour

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Global Citizens

When BGGS alumna, Ms Cathy Milliken (1972), returned home from Berlin to visit family, she shared her lessons and learnings with us on an episode of Illumine—Grammar Women. A renowned oboist, composer, and music educator, Ms Milliken initially pursued a musical education locally at Queensland Symphony Orchestra, before travelling overseas to assume positions in some of the most highly regarded classical music orchestras in the world Her truly global perspective, and reflections on navigating challenging situations in foreign lands during vastly different times, are an inspiration. Today, amongst various musical projects and composition commissions, Ms Milliken advocates for greater recognition of women musicians and composers Closer to home, BGGS has also engaged local thought leaders including author and columnist, Ms Madonna King, and specialist clinical psychologist, Dr Judith Locke, to provide valuable and authentic information about parenting and the challenges that adolescent girls face in Australian society today These intimate sessions have been well-attended by families and demonstrate that BGGS parents have a deep interest in learning and understanding their daughters and helping them to find their place in our increasingly complex world BGGS has also continued to have a strong voice on the national stage by contributing to conversations affecting the education sector. The ‘teacher shortage’ issue was explored in an episode of Illumine , and the candid conversation between Ms Euler Welsh, Deputy Principal (Academic), Dr Bruce Addison, and Deputy Principal (Co curriculum), Ms Sophie Mynott, was picked up by the Australian Financial Review and featured in their weekend publication, AFR Weekend Their discussion covered what they believe is contributing to the decline in teaching graduates, reasons behind the resignation of current teachers, and the hurdles mid-career changers face when considering a switch to teaching They also examined the solutions being put forward by the government and policymakers as part of the National Action Plan, and ideas of their own for addressing the issues Girls Grammar will continue to seek the insights and perspectives of experts from around the globe and within our own communities —ensuring that the School maintains the mindset of a global educational institution: aware of our place in the wider world; actively involved in our communities; and working towards making our planet and society a more peaceful, sustainable, and just place for all. ■

— References www.oxfam.org.uk/education/who-we-are/what-is-global-citizenship/

top Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh in the studio with alumna, Ms Cathy Milliken (1972) above The AFR Weekend article that featured Ms Jacinda Euler Welsh, Dr Bruce Addison and Ms Sophie Mynott discussing the teacher shortage

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Higher, Further, Faster How sport builds community at Girls Grammar

Alice Barker (12R) and Charlotte Wagland (12O) Sports Captains

When we begin our journey at BGGS, it feels like we are instantly part of a community—the royal blue is the way others identify us in the world, and the values it represents remain with us long after we pass through the white picket fence for the last time. However, it is through co-curricular activities, such as sport, that this sense of community—connection, growth, culture—is forged and fostered. It has been our honour as Sports Captains to work to encourage our peers to not only run faster and jump higher, but to foster even more powerful community connections.

familiar In addition to forming friendships with other students, those who participate in sport get to know the coordinating teachers, often forming a close rapport with them because of shared interests Our sporting community reaches far beyond students alone, as parents and coaches form strong bonds as they work together to support and encourage their charges For only a few hours a week, all involved learn so much about one another, and about the beautiful diversity of our community It’s something we would never experience without participating in sport There are too many benefits of sport to describe in one article, but the crux of the matter is this—for those looking to connect, engage, and bond with others, as well as stay healthy in mind and body, sport is the answer We are so grateful to have had the privilege of being the BGGS School Sport Captains for 2022 It was an honour to encourage and support our peers as they found their sporting passions and built powerful bonds within the Girls Grammar community ■

Again it has been a year like no other—commencing with a delayed start and missed rounds, closely followed by interruptions due to the floods and other severe weather However, despite these disruptions, the continued hard work of Director of Sport, Ms Jo Duffy, and other Sport staff, meant that we were still able to expand the sporting opportunities available to students including the launch of Australian Football at the School, and participation in the Reconciliation Round We are proud to say that the sense of community is stronger than ever, with the School coming together in great numbers to show their support, and more opportunities arising for students to find their pack. That is no surprise though, given the power of sport to unite Sport at BGGS, whether played as an individual or in a team, allows us to connect with likeminded people and form deep bonds There are ups and downs; you see laughter and tears; but no matter what, we stand united Through participation in sport, the faces within the School community become more

above Alice Barker (12R) and Charlotte Wagland (12O), Sports Captains 2022

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FROM THE STUDENTS OGA VOLUNTEERS

Inspired by the Past The stories of Grammar Women are an inspiration for our future Miranda Carter (11L) and Paige Vidler (11M)

The Old Girls Association (OGA) is one of the many service groups at BGGS and has been led by President, Mrs Julie Caton (Cleghorn, 1981), for the past five years. The OGA Volunteers play a vital role in the administrative, meet and greet, and ambassador responsibilities for the many alumnae functions held throughout the year When the opportunity arose to become an OGA Volunteer, we jumped at the chance—we were both eager to strengthen our ties to the School and create connections with Grammar Women We both volunteered for the 20, 30 and 40-year reunions and our activities included taking the groups on tours of the School, which allowed the past students to compare the School’s current environment with what they had known. We, alongside other OGA Volunteers, guided the 30-year reunion group tour While conducting these tours, it was inspiring to listen to the women’s stories, both from their Girls Grammar days, and what they have achieved since Although neither of us have existing family connections with BGGS, this experience as OGA Volunteers has helped us develop an even stronger connection with our highly valued community and enabled us the opportunity to give back It was fulfilling to see the Grammar Women’s excitement upon their arrival back to the School and this has made us even more grateful to be part of such an enriching community The support and encouragement demonstrated by the BGGS community was reflected through this opportunity and has truly emphasised the phenomenal impact of a Girls Grammar education ■

top Miranda Carter (11L) and Paige Vidler (11M) above President of the OGA, Mrs Julie Caton (Cleghorn, 1981) with OGA Volunteers

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Marrapatta in the City

Ms Sophie Mynott Deputy Principal (Co-curriculum)

If we can’t go to Marrapatta, Marrapatta will come to us

The first half of 2022 brought many challenges to the Girls Grammar community, including our Outdoor Education staff who are based at the Marrapatta Memorial Outdoor Education Centre near Imbil in the Mary Valley. Having successfully navigated the COVID-19 health guidelines for the past two years, and waited patiently for students to be able to travel to their campus, the Outdoor Education staff experienced further disruption caused by the flooding events in February and May. ▶

above Illy Edwards-Kalaf (8L), Evangeline Bourke (8L), History Teacher, Ms Holly McDowell, Phoebe Baker (8B) and Elsie Lowry (8O)

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Marrapatta in the City

self-awareness, capabilities and connection to the environment Each student sets personal goals and chooses her level of challenge with each activity, navigating a range of situations respectfully, including being out of her comfort zone, group dynamics, logistical changes, and moving through the physical environment By bringing Marrapatta to the students, we were able to model adaptability and resilience and provide a different type of outdoor learning experience for them, albeit on the grassy slopes of Victoria Park and in the ‘campsite’ of 89 Gregory Terrace. Highlights from the adapted program included the students canoeing in the School pool, exploring the trails at Mount Coot-tha, and learning to cook satisfying meals on their camp stoves Having a go at these activities and others, helped to increase the students’ capacity to try new things and be adaptable, allowed them to navigate new physical challenges, traverse the social structures of community living, and take calculated risks to build their confidence in their abilities. social

The wet start to the year, coupled with 286 mm of rain falling on an already saturated catchment, meant the Marrapatta campus and surrounding Mary Valley communities experienced their third flood for 2022 in the first two weeks of May This weather event caused so much damage that the road to Marrapatta was inaccessible, resulting in the postponement of the 81, 810, 85 and 87 class visits—the second postponement for the latter two groups Demonstrating the resilient spirit of Marrapatta and BGGS when faced with adversity and disappointment, the Outdoor Education team chose to be adaptable and adventurous and bring the program to the Spring Hill campus Taking advantage of a small window when they were able to reach the Marrapatta campus and collect supplies, the staff packed up their specialist gear, studied maps, rewrote the program, and drove down to Brisbane to deliver ‘Marrapatta in the City’. The Year 8 Outdoor Education program, Navigate , expands on the Year 7 Connections program to build students’

top left Alice Yuill (8L), Annalise Hazzard (8O), Alexandra Stubbin (8B) and Mia Memisevic (8L) top right Mia Memisevic (8L), Annalise Hazzard (8O) and Elke Renshaw (8E) above left Year 8 students cooking dinner above centre Fiona Huang (8L) bike riding on the Teal Floor above right Grace Jackson (8M) While disappointed not to be able to deliver the Outdoor Education Program at the ‘heart’ of Marrapatta for all groups this year, we are fortunate to have natural spaces within easy reach of the Spring Hill campus where we can connect with each other and the world around us, reflect, and make memories Despite all the obstacles Semester 1 2022 presented us with, every student in Years 7 to 9 had the opportunity to participate in an Outdoor Education Program this year, which is a remarkable feat in the circumstances! We wish to acknowledge and thank all the staff at Marrapatta and Spring Hill who made the ‘Marrapatta in the City’ program possible, and also celebrate the students who displayed great resilience by accepting the disappointment of the change in venue, adapting to the last-minute changes, and taking risks by ‘having a go’ at a newly developed Outdoor Education experience ■

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Community Spirit The unifying force of music

Mr Paul Johnston Assistant Director of Instrumental Music (Acting)

Music is a unifying force across the globe, and particularly at Brisbane Girls Grammar School. There is nothing more uplifting, soul-inspiring, and life-affirming than the resounding joy expressed by the multitude of musical ensembles that honour the fine tradition of music making within our white picket fence.

The BGGS International Women’s Day Concert affords us the opportunity to celebrate the enormously inspiring contribution that women composers and musicians have made, and continue to make, to the world of music performance We are motivated by addressing the statistical anomaly that shows us fewer than five per cent of repertoire performed by professional orchestras is by female composers To do our part to counter this, we choose to commission, champion, and feature professional female composers’ works as well as the work of our current and past students Cathedral Concert is consistently one of our most popular events, not only in the musical calendar, but for the wider School The afternoon concert is a serene experience where the sunlight streams through the stained-glass windows as the music warmly washes over us The experience of the seemingly endless resonance of the Cathedral is one that cannot be authentically ▶

It is our people who comprise the most crucial element of the signature events we witness, such as Gala Concert, Cathedral Concert, and International Women’s Day. Our students (past and present), staff, and families, all endeavour to deliver joyous and enriching performance opportunities for the BGGS community Without our people, the walls of the concert halls remain silent, our rehearsal spaces are empty caverns, and the music would never reach the hearts of the audience In our signature performances, the BGGS community offers a place of sanctity, vibrant energy, quiet reflection, and blazing passion. Whether it is the mighty empowerment of musical women at the International Women’s Day event, the warm embrace of the acoustics of St John’s Cathedral, or the enthralling fire of the Gala Concert finale, there is something for all in every performance

above left Irene Shim (11G) at Cathedral Concert above right 2022 Gala Concert, Luminescence

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Community Spirit

stewardship, and pride in what they experience Having our students pay forward their gratitude in the form of performance excellence, dedication to their craft, and guiding the next cohort of young musicians is fundamental to forging the BGGS culture of inclusivity, generosity, and positivity Our School community is richer for the gift of music Everyone is welcome, everyone can contribute, and every one of us makes our community stronger Music at Brisbane Girls Grammar School is alive and thriving—please come and enjoy the experience with us. ■

described in words One must feel the sensation of the music as it envelopes you in its breathtaking beauty And Gala each year takes us on a new and enthralling adventure that provides the audience an open invitation into the creativity, ingenuity and, most importantly, the imagination of our staff and students It is a stunning spectacle to witness the BGGS community gather to bask in the wondrous musical and performance talents of our students Uniting people is a fundamental purpose for us when curating concert events We strive to have our community feel a sense of belonging, ownership,

top Students performing at Cathedral Concert above 2022 Gala Concert, Luminescence

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FROM THE STUDENTS TEXTILE INNOVATIONS CLUB

A Community of Creativity The speedy adoption of slow fashion at BGGS Milena Saina (11O)

I joined the Textile Innovations Club when it started in 2021 and have seen it develop and grow from a few loyal members each week, to a packed classroom with so many creative, engaged, and curious young minds. Coordinator of the club and Head of Griffith House, Mrs Stephanie Thomas, invites various guests to attend our meetings to share knowledge in different forms of developing textiles Anyone with any level of experience can join the club and develop their curiosity into unique textile pieces We have access to many different tools, second-hand fabrics, and machines, so we can create whatever our hearts desire! What I love most about sewing is that the techniques we develop from making one article of clothing can be applied to other forms and accessories In textiles, we can build upon our acquired knowledge, so that in the future we can progress to larger and more complex projects. Right now, we have students making scrunchies, shirts, extravagant rainbow capes, shorts, knitted garments, crocheted hats and more! With the help of Mrs Thomas’ expertise, I made my dress for the semi-formal. I did this because I wanted to embrace using slow-fashion and so my dress would be completely unique to me and exactly what I wanted In addition to teaching us new techniques and developing our abilities, another aim of the Textile Innovations Club is to learn about slow-fashion and become curious about recycling and remaking clothes Slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion, where fast fashion is the unsustainable and often also unethical making of clothes, whereas when we make our own clothes or recycle others, we eliminate the effects of fast fashion on underpaid workers and the environment It has been wonderful to see the effort our members have put in to creating their own textile designs, and in the future, we hope to see our loyal members teaching and spreading their love of textiles to the students that follow ■

left Milena's semi-formal dress

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FROM THE STUDENTS VISUAL ART

Animalgams by Savannah Hignett (8M)

Animalgams by Leyla Bouhafs (8H)

Momento Mori by Shanae Sirimana (9L)

Still Life by Kyleen Tsang (8H)

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Behind the Curtain A candid chat with sound designer and theatre artist, Ms Isabella Hall

Mr Ben Dervish-Ali Drama Teacher & Coordinator of Drama Productions

Ms Isabella Hall has worked with BGGS as a sound designer on many productions since 2018, and as a visiting artist in the Drama Studio co-curricular club. She made her mainstage directorial debut this year in the Year 9 and 10 Drama Production, This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing by Australian playwright, Finegan Kruckemeyer.

Tell me about your passion for theatre. — I was always interested in fantasy, and passionate about magic and things outside of the ordinary In theatre, magic comes to life right before your eyes; the world you exist in while watching a performance isn’t the same as the one outside the theatre doors—you are transported to another place I love theatre because it lets me exist in another world For many years the School has benefitted from your technical expertise as a sound designer. How would you describe your first project with BGGS? — My first experience with BGGS was very dear to me The Director I was working with was kind enough to take a chance on me as a

professional development as a musician, but I wanted to explore a different avenue. In my first year at QUT, I was cast in a production as both an actor and sound designer After that, my heart was set on veering my musical practice towards composition and sound design for theatre The Drama Studio, our weekly Co curricular Drama club, has been privileged to have you as a visiting artist since 2021. What has this experience of fringe theatre works been like? — I love Drama Studio because the focus is on high-paced creation, exercising creativity in a welcoming environment, and letting the students take the reins Programs like Drama Studio help young people learn critical skills like confidence-building, valuing your intuition, and realising the capability of your imagination, which I believe are all so important to learn at an early age These are the skills that help you tackle and master anything you set your mind to in life, so it is very rewarding to be involved in a program that helps young people cultivate these mindsets ■

first-time sound designer when I was only 19 years old, and the School provided me with all the support and encouragement I needed to make it to the finish line. My most vivid memory is of the opening night when I fired my first sound cue. My hand was shaking, but after this first cue I realised that I too was part of the big team on stage, and there was no room for nerves! I relaxed and just appreciated being there and enjoyed what we had created together Can you discuss your training with sound, and what influenced you to engage with this field? — My relationship with sound and music stretches as far back as I can remember My father is a multi-instrumentalist and sound engineer who had me playing instruments and helping him with recording equipment since I was strong enough to lift it At school, I was part of a rigorous music program and trained as a percussionist and vocalist, while being highly involved in the Drama department I studied both Music and Drama at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and I knew I wanted to continue my

above Ms Isabella Hall left Flora Cardell-Ree (9O) and Shonam George (9M) in rehearsals for the production, This Girls Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girls Does Nothing

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Incredible Alumnae Achievements Queensland’s 2023 Rhodes Scholar

ALUMNAE JOSEPHINE AUER

Economist, athlete and BGGS graduate, Josephine Auer (2015), was announced by Queensland Governor, The Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, as the state’s newest recipient of the world’s oldest and most prestigious international scholarship program.

‘I am most excited by the opportunity to develop the skills and tools needed to live a life of impactful service,’ Josephine said, following the announcement The Rhodes Scholarship is, indeed, a prestigious honour, and Josephine is the fourth BGGS alumnae to receive this award Grammar Woman, Dr Beth Woods (1972), was one of the first Australian women to ever receive this scholarship in 1977 and went on to become the first female professor at UQ’s Gatton campus, and the first female head of the Queensland Government’s agriculture related department In 1994, Dr Elsina Wainwright (1988) received the honour and used it to complete both her Master’s and Doctorate in International Relations at the University of Oxford In 2018 she was awarded a Member of the Order (AM) in the Australia Day Honours for significant service to international affairs, through Australian defence, foreign policy, and conflict prevention studies, as an analyst and academic Now a Lecturer at the TC Beirne School of Law at UQ, teaching in the Law of Evidence, Constitutional Law, and Public International Law, Dr Caitlin Goss (2001) received the Rhodes Scholarship in 2009 and obtained her DPhil in comparative constitutional law at the University of Oxford, where she previously read for a Bachelor of Civil Law and an MPhil in Law ■

Since graduating from BGGS in 2015, Josephine has continued to progress and achieve both in the classroom and beyond In 2019 Josephine completed a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (BAdvFin&Econ) (Hons) at The University of Queensland (UQ) with a perfect GPA of 7, and was awarded the University Medal for her year She was part of the degree’s inaugural cohort and Valedictorian of the Economics School, and was named UQ’s 2020 Graduate of the Year A talented athlete, Josephine won several national age titles in the 800 m and 1500 m while she was a student at Girls Grammar, and made the 2018 Commonwealth Games trials in the 1500 m Her passion for running continued into her post-schooling life, and in 2021 Josephine was the Bridge to Brisbane open 10 km women’s champion, and won the Australian University Games 10 000 m and 5 000 m titles the same year. Josephine intends to use her Rhodes Scholarship to study a two-year Master of Philosophy (Economics) at the University of Oxford—an exciting new chapter following her BAdvFin&Econ (Hons) at UQ Outstandingly, she is also nearing the completion of a Bachelor of Mathematics, with a major in statistics and pure math ‘I know the globally renowned MPhil Economics program will build upon my existing background in economics and mathematics and provide a strong foundation to progress to doctoral research in my area of interest

Under the Will of the late Cecil John Rhodes, Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards, recognising outstanding all-round students and enabling them to study at the University of Oxford. Scholars are selected each year from countries around the world based on the qualities Cecil Rhodes set out: academic and intellectual excellence; integrity of character; respect for fellow beings; and a capacity for leadership.

above Josephine Auer (2015) Photo supplied by Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

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School Life

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1 The three finalist designs of the Year 10 Economics book cover competition: Isobel Payman (10M), Annabel Wang (10R), Karissa Zhu (10R) and Tiara West (10W) 2 Jesse Coleman (10E) and Adeti Pradish (10E) at the England House Churros Stall 3 Year 12 students in their senior jerseys 4 Maya Sudrikku (12R), Sienna Crosisca (12M) and Heon Kwak (12O) celebrating on Blue Day 5 Year 7 students had a virtual reality experience during a Humanities lesson 6 BGGS State and National Representative students at the Principal’s morning tea celebration 7 Darcey Moodley (7O), Freya Pearn (10H), Allanah Steer (7H) and Eve Wilkinson (7M) at the Libellum Society’s ‘Middle Earth’ Literary Café 8 Students conducting science experiments 9 Claudia Parr (12G) and Mr McGarry at the Health Promoting Schools student-teacher Basketball match 10 Jasmine Patten (7H) and Penelope Bale (8O) at the Hirschfeld House pancake breakfast 11 Annabelle De Stefani (9W) and Anne Bender (9H) during a Year 9 Ethics lesson 12 Tess Kelley (12H), Kate McDonnell (12H) and Alexandria-Jayde Tucker (12H) at the Hirschfeld House pancake breakfast

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13 Interhouse Athletics Carnival held at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre in Nathan 14 Niamh Bedggood (12O), Charlotte Wagland (12O) and Annabel King (12L) at the Interhouse Athletics Carnival 15 Caitlin Fasone (7W) and Pallavi Cherian (7W) at the Interhouse Athletics Carnival 16 Layla Barbour (10O) recording an archaeology dig in Ancient History 17 Deputy Principal (Co-curriculum), Ms Sophie Mynott, Tianyu Guo (12H), Isabel Shorrock-Browne (12R), Simran Mackrani, (12H), Madeline Bemrose (12R), Kit Leach (12O) and Director of Service, Mrs Lynne Mungomery with the School’s ANZAC Day wreath 18 Griffith House students at the Interhouse Athletics Carnival 19 Deputy Principal, Mrs Anne Ingram, Isabel Shorrock-Browne (12R), Simran Mackrani, (12H), Director of Service, Mrs Lynne Mungomery and Deputy Principal (Co-curriculum), Ms Sophie Mynott on White Blouse Day 20 Tia Fitzpatrick (12M) performing in the Interhouse Choir Competition 21 Freya Smith (11E) performs in the Arts Fest Open Mic Session 22 Rishika Vijeyakumar (8G) at the 2022 QUEST with Brisbane Grammar School (BGS) 23 Isabella Ho (10E) and Lillian Blanshard (11R) 24 Holly Eddington (12B) at the Artist in Residence workshop 25 Students at the Artist in Residence workshop 26 Physical Theatre Workshop

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27 Maya Remedios (12G) and Shanna Heath (12L) at Cathedral Concert 28 Grace Paschkewitz (11O) at Cathedral Concert 29 Year 9 students participate in the Louis Trials 30 Lillie Turkovic (11E) and Ellen Dwyer (11L) at Cathedral Concert 31 Eva Nykiel (10R) playing the Japanese drums 32 Lilley House students at the Interhouse Cross Country Carnival 33 Ms Nicola Fulton-Kennedy (1971), Ms Grace Sha (2004) and Ms Margaret Vallance (1959) at the Lady Lilley Medallists Luncheon 34 Principal, Ms Euler Welsh, with Ms Angie Milliken (1981) and Mrs Julie Caton (Cleghorn, 1981) at the Grammar Women: Leaders and Game Changers event 35 Millie Flynn (8B) and Olivia Basile (8B) with their fathers at the Father Daughter Dinner 36 Elizabeth Burke (8O) at the tree planting in Victoria Park organised by Brisbane City Council for National Tree Day 37 Grammar Women, Ms Lily Cilento (2015), Ms Michaela George (2016) and Lili Wackwitz (2016), at the Grammar Women: Leaders and Game Changers event 38 The panel discussion at the Thoughtful Educators Conference 39 Interhouse Cross Country Carnival held at Victoria Park

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40 Attendees at the 20-year Grammar Women reunion 41 Attendees at the 60-year Grammar Women reunion 42 Attendees at the 20-year Grammar Women reunion 43 Attendees at the 30-year Grammar Women reunion 44 Attendees at the 10-year Grammar Women reunion 45 Students conducting science experiments 46 Grace Freeman (11H) and Lucy Williamson (11W) with their mothers at the Mother Daughter Dinner 47 The Celtic Ensemble band 48 Students conducting science experiments 54 Students signing a petition for National Sorry Day 50 Year 7 students on the first day of Term 3

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FROM THE STUDENTS ICT PROJECT

Real Space Exploring the stars from a digital app Sandra Jiang (12W), Jordan Havu (12W), Nicole Choo (12B)

Real Space first began as individual projects for our elective Year 12 Technologies subject: Digital Solutions. The School’s Dorothy Hill Observatory allows us to use the telescopes to request images of celestial objects. We then process these using image-editing software and filters to enhance the images and produce unique artistic results. However, currently these records are stored in Excel spreadsheets and on the BGGS network drive—limiting the accessibility to this precious data Our task was to develop an application proposal that would serve as a solution for managing the School’s growing catalogue of astronomical information and images After completing our initial assessment, we found that working on this project was so interesting that we decided to join forces as a team to extend on the project and enter in the Young ICT Explorers competition. This competition involves creating solutions for real-world problems using technology. Entering as a team required us to combine each of our individual ideas and designs together to form one application Through this, we developed the Real Space platform—a dynamic online gallery that will allow the School and wider community to archive and view astronomical data for education and recreational purposes. BGGS staff will have access to a dedicated web-based space science management system where CRUD operations (the ability to create, read, update, and delete) are available. We also incorporated a virtual-reality experience into our proposal, with the idea that students would be able to have a 360° view of the night sky through VR headsets in a specially designed studio The whole process involved a lot of research, coding, and considering a human-centered design approach. We learned to use HTML, CSS, JavaScript and JQuery for the front-end design, and NodeJS and MySQL for the back-end setup. During the project, we were able to grow as a team, gaining knowledge on digital solutions to extend our specialised learning In addition to further developing our problem solving, creativity, and innovation skills, this project has also given us the opportunity to explore the endless opportunities that are possible with today’s technology ■

The Real Space application was

awarded first place in the 2022 Young ICT Explorers—South East Queensland Competition

top right Sandra Jiang (12W), Jordan Havu (12W) and Nicole Choo (12B) above Screenshots from the student-designed and built application

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