thank you, mr bowen!
TRANSCRIPT
Thank you, Mr Bowen!
SUMMER
2019
Those students who currently attend Huntingtower and all those who have attended in the past will know something of what has made our school the very special place that it is. It is not, as some may suggest, a place where high academic achievement is all that matters, it is a school where the development of attitudes of generosity, kindness and compassion are paramount. At Huntingtower we ask students to throw off any sense of limitation and realise that they express infinite intelligence as reflections of God or divine Mind. Building on a foundation of love, kindness, compassion and a belief that anything is possible, students can achieve far more than if they believed their intelligence was limited. When we realise that if we are all God’s reflection we all have as much intelligence as we need, every student is enabled to exceed all expectations.
We hold in thought that each child is an unlimited expression of divine Love and infinite Intelligence and free them from all other labels.
This has been another year of amazing achievement and activity and the demonstration of all the values mentioned in the above paragraph. Our new Performing Arts Centre enabled us to present two wonderful musicals this year. Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat was very ably presented by the Junior School and Godspell was performed by the Senior School. The use of technology, light and sound in this
technologically advanced venue highlighted the quality that we have come to expect at Huntingtower. Congratulations to all the performers in both the Junior and Senior Schools, and all the staff members who directed, produced and assisted with these shows.
Our new STEM Centre is now fully operational and has been a drawcard for many other educators and even politicians who want to see STEM in operation. It is wonderful to see how the Environment and our responsibility towards it has become integrated into all aspects of our STEM approach. It is a very exciting space in which to learn and be creative.
Once again Huntingtower’s performance in cultural and sporting activities has been excellent and included winning the Debaters Association of Victoria’s Junior British Parliamentary Grand Final for the second year. Our Chess Teams continue to operate at the highest levels, reaching the National Finals
again this year. This year our ongoing successes in the Tournament of Minds competition continued with our Junior TOM Team making the International Final and receiving Honours. Our sporting teams also continue to perform at a very high standard and this year our Senior Football Team reached the Grand Final. A Junior School student broke three National Athletics records and our swimming and Cross-Country Teams continue to dominate. ‘No Limits’ is the catchcry!
As I take my leave of Huntingtower, I wish to thank everyone who has been a part of this amazing community as staff members, students, parents and supporters. I wish you all every success and joy as you embrace the third decade of the 21st Century. My love for you all knows no bounds and my constant thought will always be one of gratitude for the opportunity and privilege that it has been to lead this community. I humbly give thanks to God knowing that ‘I can of mine own self do nothing’ and ‘He performeth that which is appointed for me to do’.
God bless you all and thank you.
Sholto BowenSholto Bowen OAM Principal
From the Principal
LEFT: Sholto Bowen OAM with the School Captains Emma Carroll and Jordan Lentini.
BELOW: Sholto Bowen OAM with Sandra Tiepermann, Tania Parkyn, Shan Christensen, Mel Beal and Noel Davies.
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In the case of Sholto Geddes Bowen OAM and Huntingtower, this has been exceptional and remarkable, or as the students would say, absolutely awesome!
A lifetime’s dedication – 47 years of educating young people including 33 years as a teacher and in many other roles at Huntingtower. Most notably, for the past 21 years Sholto has been at Huntingtower’s helm as our school’s Principal.
As one commentator put it: ‘Exceptional results arrive only when exceptional people put in exceptional effort.’ This certainly is how Sholto Bowen made it all happen along with his vision, his passion for education and his commitment to Christian Science which demonstrates the unlimited potential available if we allow the one Divine Mind to guide our path.
During his time as Principal, Huntingtower has grown from 375 students to an enrolment of 750. Much of this has been the direct result of Sholto’s prominent profile throughout the learning community. It also reflects the high-quality staff that Sholto hand-picked, nurtured and inspired through his brand of values education. His passionate presentations to staff motivated them to bring out the very best in our students and to identify and encourage students’ individual talents.
A dramatic renewal of the school campus occurred during Sholto’s principalship. All of this was done with care to preserve the tranquil parkland setting that sets Huntingtower’s learning environment apart from so many other schools.
Sholto’s far-sightedness sparked the seeds of the ideas upon which the Board and the whole Huntingtower team have built. Major developments that occurred during Sholto’s time include the Sports and Aquatic Centre, the Hockey Astroturf Ground, the Junior School Gymnasium, a Junior School classroom block, the purpose-designed Middle Years’ Centre, the dedicated VCE Centre and, of course, the spectacular Performing Arts Centre.
Sholto’s goal for development of this outstanding learning environment, however, has always been secondary to his motivating passion for his students to achieve excellence through understanding their unlimited potential as expressions of God - infinite Mind and Love. Sholto has always clearly encouraged all students to stretch their limits by putting in exceptional effort just as he has done himself in his pursuits.
Huntingtower has become a benchmark to which many other schools aspire. All activity at Huntingtower reflects Sholto’s focus that Huntingtower is here to ‘Uplift Thought!’
As recently as the Valedictory Dinner, Sholto’s paramount rule to ‘Always Be Kind’ was seen to have inspired not just the students but also their parents.
As an extraordinary era in Huntingtower’s development and spiritual progress draws to a close, I’m sure the entire Huntingtower community is reflecting upon Sholto’s outstanding and unique contribution.
Huntingtower is left enriched and strong as it moves into its next era.
Sholto’s influence and accomplishments have made an indelible mark on Huntingtower and his educational and spiritual legacy will inextricably remain with the school.
On behalf of the Board, staff, students, parents and the entire Huntingtower community, we all express our profound appreciation to Sholto Bowen and look forward with interest to see the new chapters that will open up for him.
Heartfelt thanks, merci beaucoup and terima kasih to our dear friend and inspiration, Sholto Bowen OAM.
David WeilDavid Weil Chairman of the Huntingtower Board
ABOVE: Colleagues, friends and family applaud Sholto Bowen OAM at his special retirement afternoon tea at The Gables.
BELOW: Martha and David Weil (Chairman of the Huntingtower Board) with Sholto Bowen OAM.
What contribution do we each make?
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Family, friends and colleagues celebrated Sholto Bowen’s wonderful contributions to our beloved school at a special afternoon tea at The Gables in Malvern. Honoured speakers John Karagounis and Dot Greiveson spoke warmly and appreciatively about Sholto’s leadership, guidance, friendship and vision.
1: Sholto Bowen OAM with his cousin, Faye Charles, his brother, David and sister-in-law Jeanie.
2: Sholto with Martha and David Weil (Chairman of the Huntingtower Board).
3: Guest speaker John Karagounis, Managing Director of the CEO Circle, with his wife Nicky and Effie Lagos (former parent) and Vicki Schwab, Sholto’s P.A.
4: Don Cole, Pauline Hutchinson and David Fletcher.
5: Rob Kitchingman and Jon Bailey.
6: Sholto’s son and daughter-in-law Sarah and Martin Bowen (Class of ’92).
7: Long term friends Margie and Tony Syfret.
8: Noel Davies and Jen Geddes Davies with Donna Goddard and Peter Thompson.
9: Guest speaker Dot Greiveson, former Head of the Junior School, with Liz Davidson, Registrar.
10: Mel Beal, John Bruce and Claudia Banks.
A H I G H T E A
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11: Belinda and Geoff Hardcastle with Shan Christenson and Tania Parkyn.
12: Sue and Stuart Walkerden.
13: Sholto with Imah and Paul Sylivris.
14: Ken and Betty Walters.
15: James and Gabriel Younger.
16: Chloë Beattie-Hood and Amanda Dunsmore.
17: Christine Lenghaus.
18: Derek Scott (CEO, Haileybury).
19: Helen McDonald and Rhonda Jenkin.
20: Nigel Hutchinson-Brooks.
21: Russell Jenkin.
22: Meg Cole.
23: Sandra Tiepermann.
24: Ellie Bruce.
25: James Gates and Effie Lagos.
26: Imah Sylivris and Donna Goddard.
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ABOVE: ‘Arts in the Round’ Poster based on photograph taken by Dennis Huang (Year 10).
1: Members of the Indo Club (Year 2): Maya Marriott, Audrey White, Sasha Heinz and Vedant Nandakumar.
2: The Middle School Orchestra.
3: Godspell magic: Shivani Mahendran (Year12), Laila Salloum (Year 9), Emilie Hoyne (Year 10), Laura Armstrong (Year 10) and Karina Thompson (Year 9).
4: Performance Based Learning students give their all: Maxine Milasinovich, Dylan Chandra, Jana Moridis, Olivia Caune, Jude Wong, Aryan Bhola and Kasper Yeung (all Year 7).
5: Feeling the beat: Year 7 PBL African drummers.
6: Parents John and Marissa Damianidis with children Ari, Elle (Year 5) and Thalia (Year 3) and some of Arts in the Round’s fabulous artwork.
Where…• artists and designers paint, draw, sew,
plan, model, explain and inspire,• students sing their hearts out in
musical items and choirs,
• audiences delight to numerous orchestras and the concert band,
• Junior School children entertain with Indonesian music and song,
• VCE dramatists perform,
• linguists demonstrate interesting facts about languages and
• African drummers, circus performers, dancers and acrobats excel!
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Dear Members of the Huntingtower Community
On behalf of the Huntingtower School Board and after an extensive recruitment process I am delighted to confirm the appointment of our new Principal, commencing from 1st January 2020, Mr Andrew Houghton MIL, BEd, DipT, MACE, AFIML, MACEL.
Andrew Houghton is a highly regarded educationalist currently holding the position of ‘Principal Advisor, School Improvement’ for Independent Schools Victoria (ISV). In this role, Andrew provides advice and guidance to Independent Schools supporting school improvement, strategic planning and leadership capacity. Through his inspirational work, Andrew is recognised as a leading mentor to those working in Victoria’s independent school sector.
Prior to his present role, Andrew has had over 20 years’ experience in school
leadership, including international consulting and the establishment of new schools. Most recently, Andrew was the Principal of a newly established Islamic College in Melbourne. His other roles as Principal and in teaching have included participation at Uniting Church based schools.
His experience stretches across the Junior School and Senior School spectrum. He has expertise in and enthusiasm for Information Technology and e-learning and has used fine management skills to bring harmony through his leadership in the schools that he has led.
Andrew is committed to preserving the values-based education at Huntingtower which is based upon the principles and values of Christian Science. With his Christian upbringing, Andrew says that upholding ‘the Golden Rule is central to who I am and how I lead schools.’
Notably, Andrew will bring his passion for building vibrant learning cultures to Huntingtower through his engagement with the students, staff and parents of our Huntingtower community. In his own words ‘I provide a professional learning environment that promotes education as a ‘tool of life’ and contributes to the spiritual, emotional and intellectual well-being of the staff and students.’
The inaugural winner of the ‘Australian Teacher’ magazine’s ‘Unsung Hero Leadership Award’, Andrew is a Fellow of the Institute of Managers & Leaders, Member of the Australian College of Educators and Member of the Australian Council for Educational Leaders. His training and educational background includes his Diploma of Education, Bachelor of Education and Masters of Instructional Leadership.
Throughout the recruitment process we were impressed by Andrew’s exceptional ability to motivate learning and his distinctive creativity and light-hearted sense of humour.
Andrew is an enthusiastic sportsman. In the years ahead we are likely to see him inspiring and leading the challenge by students at future HOSA Sports Days!
Andrew is a committed family man with three children. We are so pleased to also welcome his wife, Tania, into our Huntingtower community. Tania works in the Disability Support Services sector.
The appointment of a new Principal has been a lengthy but thorough process to ensure the best outcome for Huntingtower. We were delighted with the outstanding quality of many of the candidates who applied for this position, making this no easy choice. As such, we offer our sincerest congratulations to Andrew.
I wish to take this occasion again to express our deepest gratitude to our current Principal, Mr Sholto Bowen OAM, who for two decades has led this school with passionate enthusiasm and distinction. Building on our school’s fine tradition of leadership, from respected past Principals to Sholto, Andrew says that he feels privileged to have the opportunity to lead our wonderful school into the future.
We look forward to welcoming Andrew Houghton as our Principal when he takes up his appointment on 1st January 2020.
Yours sincerely
David WeilDavid Weil Chairman of the Huntingtower Board
1: Our new Performing Arts Centre
2: Geoff Hardcastle (second from left) and Rob Kitchingman (fourth from right) and PAC builders (SJ Higgins) and architects (Baldasso Cortese) at the Master Builder Excellence in Construction Awards (Victoria). Congratulations to all involved! 1 2
The Huntingtower Board welcomes our new Principal
Master Builders Winner of Excellence in Construction Award for our new Performing Arts Centre
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ABOVE: Godspell cast, back row: Stephanie Barrow (Morgan), Laila Salloum (Rosie), Isambard Knox-Johnson (John the Baptist/Judas), Felix Gould (Jesus), Emma Carroll (Celisse), Anna Thompson (Anna-Maria) and Shivani Mahendran (Uzo). Front: Aiden Fyfield (Tim), Emilie Hoyne (Lindsay), Emma Russell (Georgie), Laura Armstrong (Telly), Karina Thompson (Camille) and Jack Wu (Nick).
1: Emma Russell and members of the chorus ensemble.
2: Felix Gould.
3: Members of the chorus: Jason Zhu, Liam Fyfield, Lynton Sun, Poppy Kokkinias, Evangeline Hamer-Smith, Rishika Deshwal , Felix Gould and Mary Huang.
4: Karina Thompson, Emma Carroll, Emma Russell, Felix Gould, Anna Thompson, Shivani Mahendran and Stephanie Barrow.
5: Emma Carroll, Stephanie Barrow, Emilie Hoyne and Laura Armstrong.
The Senior School’s production of the 2012 revamped version of ‘Godspell’ was a fabulous event. Based on the last days of Jesus as told in the book of Matthew in the New Testament of the Bible, our students told the Godspell story with humour, drama, musicality and energy.
Many thanks are extended to everyone involved, especially the Director, Vivienne Perry and the Musical Director, Christine Cochrane. Head of Drama, Daniel Borbely, did a superb job with Set Design and Properties and Evan Pugh was
indomitable in charge of Lighting and Sound. Claudia Ohlert’s boundless energies were put to great effect in several roles including those of Stage Manager, Short Film Cinematographer and costumes. Jai Denny’s expertise meant that the makeup and hairdos were spectacular and Tata Survi’s work with costumes was both innovative and stylish.
Many thanks also for the great images from ISKA Photography and some stunning costumes from Alexandra Gill Chambers (Clockwork Butterfly).
The Senior School’s production of
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6: Emma Russell, Shivani Mahendran, Isambard Knox-Johnson, Aiden Fyfield, Felix Gould, Emilie Hoyne and Jack Wu.
7: Laura Armstrong.
8: Laila Salloum (in front of Felix Gould), Emilie Hoyne and Stephanie Barrow.
9: Isambard Knox-Johnson.
10: Stephanie Barrow and Anna Thompson.
11: Emilie Hoyne and Aiden Fyfield.
12: Emma Russell, Emilie Hoyne, Laila Salloum, Jack Wu, Laura Armstrong, Isambard Knox-Johnson and Felix Gould.
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A night to remember… 2019 Senior School Formal(with thanks to MAC Photos)
ABOVE: Go with the glow! Year 8 students (back): Georgia McGarvey, Kiara Munasinghe, Sienna Fry, Eleni Megas, Mila Girski and Hien Dang. Front: Adi Prabhu, Lachlan Kelaart, Shyam Mahendran and Jamie Roussety.
2: Year 12 students Prachi Mehta and Shivani Mahendran.
3: Eadie Anderson, Hanne Wendler-Canning and Amelia Miglic (Year 7)
4: Year 12s: Mandy Chen, Kate Healey, Felix Gould, Ellie Bentley, Stephanie Barrow and Jordan Lentini.
5: Peter Theologou and Mason Lam (Year 12) 4
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6: Sisters and brothers: George and Jenna Pletsias with Tayla and Ben Gray.
7: Year 12 belles of the ball, back: Jacqueline Tang, Madhu Iyer, Tara Samaranayake, Tanvi Prabhu, Ellie Bentley, Carey Loh, Rachel Ko and Alyssa Chau. Front: Jordan Koudmani, Alex Devenish and Elise Ozga.
8: Year 10s, back: Ben Riley, Lauren Rodrigo, Meaghan Charrett, Kallista Amery, Natalia Bednarowicz, Mirai Tanabe and Marcus Truter. Front: Rachael How, Catherine Porciuncula, Isambard Knox-Johnson and Anthea Milasinovich.
9: Sam Perry, Andrew Kambilafkas, Lucas Riley, Travin Singh and Jason Waugh (Year 8)
10: Blokes in Black (Year 12): Sam Lloyd-Smith, Liam Paterson, Lachlan Soo, Amaan Amir, Cameron Chio, Tom Wright and Georgio Karanasios.
11: Esha Amir, Sienna Clash, Theodora Dunn, Laila Salloum, Niki David, Karina Thompson, Rachel Hawkes and An Dang (Year 9)
12: Dom Taing, Sid Rao, Erik Piefke and Zafi Karanasios.
13: Back: Cynthia Ge (second from left) and friend, Valerie Yang and Vivian Zhang. Front: Ann Xia, Cassandra Tan and Jeanne Wang (all Year 12)
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1: Isabella Wong, Elle Damianidis, Asher Aylett, Joshua Hunter, Amelie Pilkington-Ward, Olivia Woodhouse and Mimi Roberts.
2: A cast of many: all the Tournament of Minds competitors smile for the camera in Richmond, Tasmania.
3: Winners are grinners!
Great news from the International Tournament of Minds competition in Hobart! After a day of hard work and thinking, the Huntingtower Junior Arts team were awarded Honours in their division.
The competition was a very high standard. Top teams from each State and Territory, together with New Zealand, put in their best efforts.
Our team performed beautifully, representing our school and Victoria with distinction, just missing first place by a whisker.
Congratulations to the facilitator, Sarah Cummins, and the team; Mimi Roberts, Olivia Woodhouse, Amelie Pilkington-Ward, Joshua Hunter, Isabella Wong, Elle Damianidis and Asher Aylett.
Susan Swan
Hearty Congratulations: Honours in Tournament of Minds
ABOVE: Teachers Sarah Cummins and Susan Swan in Hobart with the Huntingtower Arts Team who were awarded Honours in the 2019 International Tournament of Minds: Asher Aylett, Isabella Wong, Elle Damianidis, Amelie Pilkington-Ward, Olivia Woodhouse, Mimi Roberts and Joshua Hunter.
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The Junior School’s beautiful and vibrant
1: Joseph (Nicolás Cookson) (Cast B) and his brothers.
2: Joseph (Cerys Morgan), the Pharaoh (Liam Jenkins) (Cast A) and courtiers.
3: Locked in prison! (Year 3).
4: Oh! It’s the hairy Ishmaelites (Year 2).
5: Sweet corn and twinkling stars (Year 1).
6: Little lambs (Preps).
7: Market goers in Ancient Egypt (Year 4).
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1: Saarim’s mum, Shazia, and Aanika’s mum, Chhaya Rewal, with (clockwise from left): Seniru Subasinghe, Klaus Dong, Ethan Borg, Nikini Jinadasa, Claudia Lombardi, Molly White and Jonas Yao.
2: Aakash’s mum, Ramja Kokulan, with the Pre-Prep 3 class.
3: Sammu Iyer.
4: Nikini Jinadasa.
5: Aanika Rewal.
6: Shravya Subhash’s mum, Vaishnavi, with Sammu’s mum, Bhuvi.
7: Clockwise from lower left: Aanika Rewal, Saarim Islam, Jason Bai, Ben Forde, Ryan An, Aaron Jahedian and Ricky Yang.
8: Shravya’s mum, Vaishnavi, with Avril Wang, Shravya Subhash, Hannah Liu and Nav Rewal, Aanika’s dad.
Pre-Prep 3 and 4 students loved learning about the famous Diwali Festival which commemorates the victory of light over darkness and goodness over evil. During Diwali, Hindus and Jains throughout the world decorate their homes and workplaces, wear their best clothes, light candles and have lots of delicious food. It’s a time of happiness and joy and Pre-Prep students were so grateful when some of their mums and dads came along to share the traditions associated with this special time.
Celebrating Diwali – the festival of lights
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A super star
In May of this year Lachie Zeuschner (Year 4) attended the Team Vic Athletics trials. He was selected to compete in four events (the 100 metres, 200 metres, long jump and a relay) for Team Vic at the Primary National Athletics Championships in Darwin in September. What a thrill.
In September, Lachie travelled to Darwin with the Victorian Team. His first event was the 200 metres. Multi-class athletes all have a classification based on their disability, so whilst they all run together, results are based on the percentage they achieve compared to the record for their classification. Lachie ran the 200 metres in 43.93 which was a PB and he achieved 100.30%. As the highest percentage for his event this meant he was awarded a gold medal. Lachie also broke the Australian T40 records in the following age groups of under 20, 18, 16 and 14! How fantastic.
In Long Jump on the Saturday, Lachie was disappointed with his jump of 2.12m as he didn’t achieve his PB. However, with 76% this was enough
to receive another gold medal! At the Closing Ceremony we later discovered that he had beaten the 11 years boys’ record for his class.
Lachie’s favourite event was the 100 metres. He ran a 20.19 which was a PB. The excitement mounted as we waited for the results: 102%! He was awarded a third gold medal and another Australian T40 record in the following age groups of under 20, 18, 16 and 14!
The medley relay was Lachie’s final event. Lachie was the third runner and ran an excellent leg, making up ground for his team. His team are congratulated on being awarded the silver medal.
Lachie – everyone at Huntingtower is proud of what you have achieved. Your motivation to push yourself is amazing. What an inspiration you are. CONGRATULATIONS.
Joanna Clapp
Musical excellence
Congratulations to Isambard Knox-Johnson (Certificate of Performance), Yohei Tang-Yamaoka (Certificate of Performance), Faris Truong (Certificate of Performance), Amy Liu (Certificate of Performance), Jeremy Dong (Associate A Mus A), Jay Sun (Associate A Mus A) and Krish Ravindrababu (Certificate of Performance) on their recent AMEB awards. Well done!
A round of applause!
World Class!
Mel Beal was thrilled when a Huntingtower team of film makers were awarded second prize for the Best International Film at the 2019 International Youth Silent Film Festival (IYSFF) in Portland, Oregon. Congratulations to (back) Mel Beal, Emma Russell, Paris Moore, Madhu Iyer and Ellie Bentley and (front row) John Kokkinias, Lachlan Soo and Elise Ozga. What a fabulous effort!
Acrobatic finesse
Avaya Pola
Avaya Pola is a member of Action Sport Aerobics who trained and competed at FISAF competitions this year. Her results in the FISAF National Aerobics Competition are: Junior Elementary Pairs (Phase 1) - Avaya and partner 7th place (14 pairs competed) and Junior Fitness Grande Teams - Audacious (Action Sport) 6th place. Congratulations!
Golf Tournament
Rachael How and Joshua Gong, who represented Huntingtower in
Rachael How Joshua Gong
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the Victorian Independent School Golf Tournament. Despite awful weather, they were placed 4th and 6th respectively. Well done!
Mathematical genius
Adrian Lin
Congratulations to Adrian Lin (Year 7), who was a medallist in the AMT Mathematics Competition (he finished in the top 0.01% from 250,000 participants in 30 countries). He received his medal at Government House from the Governor of Victoria at a special ceremony in October.
Swimming champ
Xavier Tan
Well done Xavier Tan (Year 8) for winning both the 100m Breaststroke and the 200m Breaststroke in the Victorian State Championship Long Course.
Hockey hero
Jude Wong
Jude Wong, who represented Victoria in U13 Hockey during the September holidays.
Ballet extraordinaire
Liam Fyfield
Liam Fyfield, who this year was invited to be in the Australian Ballet’s production of the Nutcracker. What a wonderful experience!
Football selection
Katherine Noutso
Katherine Noutso, who was selected for the Victorian U/15 Touch Football Team
British Parliamentary Junior Champions
Congratulations to Pranav Choudhary and Michael Xiao (Year 8) who won the Debaters Association of Victoria’s Junior British Parliamentary Grand Final.
Huntingtower were the defending champions this year. In an energetic debate, with passionate arguments about fake news, respect for the media, free press and the need for a positive outlook on the world, Michael and Pranav came out on top and took the 2019 title.
British Parliamentary Intermediate Grand Finalists
After winning last year’s Junior British Parliamentary Grand Final, Year 9 students Emily Soo and Oscar Li qualified in the top four teams in the DAV Intermediate British Parliamentary state tournament. They were runners-up in the Victorian Grand
Team SpiritDebating superstars
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Final, debating against teams from Melbourne High, St Kevin’s and Loreto Mandeville Hall. Congratulations to Oscar Li for being awarded the best speaker overall.
Junior Public Speaking Grand Finalists
Michael Xiao and Lithasha Perera (Year 8) qualified for the Grand Final of the DAV Junior Public Speaking competition. The Grand Final saw the top ten Year 8 speakers from across Victoria come together to deliver a series of speeches. Both Michael and Lithasha did exceptionally well. In an extremely close result, with less than one point separating the top three speakers, Michael Xiao finished third in the competition.
Swannie Award Winner
Anjali Sharma was awarded the 2019 DAV’s Swannie Award for being the best Year 9 debater in the Glen Waverley region of the DAV School Competition. The Swannie Awards are given to the best individual speakers in each region of the Schools Competition, the state’s largest interschool debating competition.
Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships
This year Huntingtower entered its first ever team into the Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships. This involved some of the top debaters and public speakers from across Australia competing across a range of events.
‘Taking part in AIDPSC was memorable. I learnt how to adopt criticism and implement it into how I work. The experience was extremely rewarding. It was amazing to see all my hard work paid off.’ Kate Culbert
‘Participating in the AIDPSC was the best thing that I have done so far during my time at Huntingtower. As well as working on my public speaking and debating, I was able to meet countless other students and adjudicators who gave invaluable feedback and have now become good friends.’ Hugh Perry
‘AIDPSC was one of the most eye-opening competitions I’ve ever taken part in. I was apprehensive about speaking against some of the best public speakers in Australia, but after an intensive three days, I felt much stronger and more confident.’ Logan Ratnarajah
‘The experience of AIDPSC enabled me to take my debating and public speaking abilities to the highest level. I also was able to observe other extremely talented speakers from across Australia that I’d otherwise never meet.’ Oscar Li
1: Hugo Hayes, Rohan Dudani and Brynley Burns (Year 8)
2: Yenula Bogahapitiya, Thisaga Herath Mudiyanselage and Aryan Bhola (Year 7)
3: Jamie Roussety, Shyam Mahendran and Pranav Choudhary (Year 8)
4: Ethan Chong, Riya Krishnan and Eric Bong (Year 7)
Robocup Junior Australia is a project-oriented educational initiative that supports robotic events for young students.
‘This year, a small group of students from Years 5, 7 and 8 went to the Robocup State Competition. There were challenges involving robots that had to be overcome. The last task was the hardest where our robot had to get a tin can out of a chemical spill. We all had a great time and are looking forward to competing at the Nationals.’ Riya Krishnan (Year 7)
The Simunye Project Australia 2019 has returned from an amazing adventure in South Africa. Thanks to the school community who once more gave so generously to support our students and the communities abroad.
Robocup Fun
Simunye lights the way
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Merilyn HartMerilyn is a ‘lifelong member’ of our Huntingtower community. She was a Huntingtower student and Ruthven House Captain in the 1960s, Head Prefect in 1967, a parent of Andrew (Class of ‘98) and Chris (Class of ‘09), she was on the Huntingtower Association from 1997 – 2001 and she has been a much loved member of the staff since 2004. She is loyal, kind and wise and lots of fun to be with. She speaks so fondly of her ‘Huntingtower life’ – she loves the school’s sense of home, family and belonging and sees our school as a ‘haven for many’.
Merilyn’s highlights at Huntingtower include seeing her two boys graduate. At Andrew’s recent wedding, many of his classmates joined in the celebrations even though this involved international flights. Merilyn has also loved organising reunions for her own classmates, saying that ‘Huntingtower is the thread that binds us together’.
Merilyn embodies the very best of Huntingtower. Her integrity, steadfastness and joy of life mean that she has been a wonderful colleague and friend to all who have had the
Congratulations, Talia Goddard! (Above) In the recent IronMan Championships in Cairns, Talia completed a 3.8km swim, a 180km bike ride and then a 42km run, placing 7th in her age group and 33rd out of 340 women competitors. Now that’s impressive!
privilege of knowing her. To say that we will miss her is an understatement. Her knowledge of the wider school community, her diligence, kindness and great sense of humour, her intelligence and love of our school mean that she cannot be replaced. All we can do is wish her every happiness in a ‘retirement’ that will include travel, gardening, reading and numerous other activities. A favourite quote of Merilyn’s from Mary Baker Eddy sums up the future for us all: ‘The present is ours; the future big with events.’
James BanhJames has been a wonderful member of the Huntingtower staff since 2013. He is intelligent, open-hearted, funny and, importantly, one of the best cooks in all of Australia. (Who can resist those delicious and gorgeously presented desserts for staff celebrations?)
A great teacher of mathematics and chemistry, he’s also a go-to person when it comes to all kinds of sport. He particularly enjoyed introducing Touch Football as a new sport at Huntingtower. For the past two years he has been the indefatigable Head of Bruce House, leading his house with great humour and enthusiasm. According to James, he’ll always remember the Bruce House kids because ‘they’re clearly the best ever.’
He’s loved so much of his seven Huntingtower years, including coaching the Year 7 girls’ cricket team and watching them grow in confidence and skill. The trips to Plumbago in 2014 and 2016 were particularly memorable because of the inspirational ways that everyone pulled together and supported each other during challenging times.
Believe it or not, James also loved singing and dancing in numerous events nearly every year: he’s been Justin Bieber, part of the Village People and One Direction, he’s been a T-Bird,
the Christmas Star and an angel. He’s been an absolutely wonderful organiser of quirky, fun and inclusive staff functions and he’s a fan of Mrs Cassidy: ‘She’s my best friend. She always feeds me because she knows I usually don’t bring lunch to school.’
Huntingtower has been very fortunate to have James as part of its teaching team. We wish James every happiness and success in the future and know that whatever path he takes, he’ll continue to be a force for good. Thank you, James!
ABOVE: Merilyn Hart with her two sons, Andrew (Class of ’98) and Chris (Class of ’09).
RIGHT: James Banh with Bruce House Captains Shivani Mahendran and Brandon Griffiths.
MilestonesThank you and Farewell
Congratulations
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A: Camp Coordinator Nic Green’s son, Tejay, with his brand new baby sister, Peyton. Congratulations!
B: Welcome to little Ella Mary O’Hanlon, born early November. Congratulations to Alex and her husband, Gary and Oscar, big brother to Ella. What a happy time!
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In July, Jenny Grimm (Class of ’81, former director of the HT Playhouse and Boarding House Mother extraordinaire) and her daughter Hannah (’14) travelled to Kenya to volunteer at two schools, ‘Sunrise of Africa’ and ‘Dream’.
The Sunrise of Africa School, which is closely associated with Huntingtower, has 350 students. Many need full financial assistance with their schooling. Aside from loving teachers and a chalk board, all classes except the ELC have very limited resources. Any money donated for things like pencils, erasers, books and food is really appreciated.
Because of many generous donations, Sunrise now has the beginning of its first-ever library. On the day we were there, some of the students were able to borrow books – this was so exciting to watch. Apart from books, we also donated art and writing materials.
We then visited the amazing kids at Sunrise’s sister school, Dream. This school only has 53 students! We were able to buy them a white board, world globe, stationery, cups, plates, games and more. Everything was received with so much gratitude. The reaction of the children was overwhelming and something we will remember forever.
Our trip was the experience of a lifetime. The love and joy that the children expressed was so gratifying. Hannah and I are in awe of how much money has been donated: $2770. To everyone who helped, many, many thanks. We spent $904 at Dream School and $1230 at Sunrise School. Four friends of mine, Bev, Eileen, Halima and Jo have allocated funds to put one student, Mary, through high school next year. Money donated by other friends was allocated to buy school uniforms and bus travel for children in the playgroup class. All donations made a huge impact.
We are both so grateful for the time spent teaching at Sunrise of Africa School and exploring the beautiful country of Kenya this summer. Thank you to each one of you who made this experience absolutely incredible.
Jenny Grimm
1: Jenny Grimm (right) with friends from Sunrise of Africa School.
2: Hannah (second right) and fashionistas at Sunrise of Africa.
3: Find Hannah! (Sunrise of Africa School)
4: Wonder World (at ‘Dream’, Sunrise of Africa’s sister school)
5: The new library at Sunrise
6: Back row: volunteers from around the world (including Hannah and Jenny Grimm, second and third from left). Front row: Musau M Daniel (Principal of Sunrise), Samuel Aloyo (the Sunrise CEO) and Rhoda, a ‘Jill of all trades’ at the Sunrise of Africa School.
7: Thumbs up! Jenny Grimm at Sunrise School.
8: Hands up! (Sunrise School)
9: Happiness is … (at Sunrise School)
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Once upon a time in Africa…
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HOSA & HT Grads Sports Day
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Massive day for all concerned. HOSA just missed out on stealing back the trophy from current students!
Big wins for the ‘oldies’ in Hockey, Men’s and Women’s Basketball and Men’s Table Tennis. The current students won the Men’s and Women’s Volleyball, Soccer, Netball and Women’s Table Tennis (by one game). Thanks to everyone who came and played, filled in and supported!
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1:Mixed Hockey, back row: Alasdair Hackett, So Imamura, Alistair Cramer, Matt Sturgeon, Adam Bunting, Matthew Cramer, Anthony Bowen, Julian Adler, Emma Carroll, Ethan Paterson, Chris Campbell, Liam Paterson, Isambard Knox-Johnson, Max Nichols, Sebastien D’Arcy, Thaksh Hiremath, Nicko Grimm, Sarah Morley and teachers Claudia Ohlert and Adam Drennan. Front row: Christina Percival, Ashleigh Morley, Caley Manzie, Roger Zou (behind Caley), Jasmine Bunting, Emma Lynch, Mirai Tanabe, Anthea Milasinovich, Catherine Porciuncula and Kirstie Barnard. Very front: Stephanie Barrow.
2: Women’s Netball, back row: Kaja Clayton, Emily Hoyne, Melanie Fernando, Laura Ariens,
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Kate Healey, Tara Samaranayake, Tegan Smart, Alexandra Devenish, Indira Devenish, Dani Gorr, Bridie Teekens, Emily Ariens and teacher Shan Christensen. Front row: Cassidy Rees, Lara Christensen, teacher Julieanne Douglas, Chantel Raja and Sam Morley.
3: Mixed Hockey: Jasmine Bunting and Sarah Morley.
4: Men’s Soccer: Tyler Freeland and Pat Makris.
5: Men’s Table Tennis: David Li, Liam House, Connick Cheung, Liam Lozardo and Vish Ravindrababu.
6: Women’s Table Tennis, back: Stephanie Song, Bernice Li, Elinya Dyer, Rebecca How and Gabby Kitchingman. Front: Vernice Ta, Dani Gorr and Anjuni Dassanayake.
7: The Women’s Volleyball Team, back row: Hannah White, Moll Xiao, Sam Morley, coach Peter Rees, Mary Huang, Ellie Bentley, Mandy Chen, Tara Samaranayake, Tegan Smart and Kaja Clayton. Front row: Sasha Thompson, Chantel Raja, Lucy Dobbyn, Angel Phillips and Alexandra Devenish.
Get Social with HT Grads
@ht_grads HTGRADS facebook.com/htgrads
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4: Jonathan Anderson (Class of ’04) and Winnie Kong at their wedding in October. The bridal party included the Huntingtower ’04 lads (from front): Frans Jungerth, Dominic Mascetta, Adrian Cosstick and Jack Barker.
5: A Huntingtower family: Kirsty (Class of ’01) with her husband, David Saunders, Geoff Anderson, the bridal couple and Mike and Vicki Anderson (Vicki was a much-loved Huntingtower teacher).
1: Dr Sally Irvine (’01) with her husband Dr Peter Modregger at their August wedding in Oxford. Sally has been working at Oxford University for the past 4 years; she and Peter recently moved to Hamburg.
2: Andrew Hart (Class of ’04) and Ravina Ravi at their wedding in September in Langkawi, Malaysia.
3: A happy throng of Huntingtowerites at Andrew and Ravina’s wedding (all Class of ’98 unless stated otherwise): Andrew Squire, long term friend Jon Liew, Masakuni Wakayu, Merilyn Hart (Class of ‘67), Andrew Hart, Chris Hart (’09), Peter Abhiradee, Trish Jackson (Class of ’73), Go Wakabayashi, Guyan Perera, David Syfret and David Pilkington.
The Class of ’89 reunited on a cold and blustery Melbourne day. Warm greetings and warm hearts put paid to the chilly temperatures and a jolly good time was had by all!
Wedding bells
Look who’s counting: 30 years on
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Front (from left): Lavinia Thurairatnam, Russell Jenkin, Jane Barker, Amanda Dunsmore, Adrian Shevlin, Rob Ormsby, Emily Kotschet, Tracy Booth and Dot Greiveson. Back row (from left): Paul Fraser, Sholto Bowen, Sunny Kumar, Valerie (surname unknown), Roger Nash, Chris Strang, Chris Skala, Jonathan Seares, Stuart Walkerden, Chris Bain and Nic Wu
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Congratulations
Babies bloom!
Good to catch up
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8: Kate Barker (Class of ‘13) was recently admitted to practice as a legal practitioner. Kate’s admission was moved by Vic Rajah (School Captain 1993) who is Kate’s Principal at Vic Rajah Family Lawyers. Kate’s mum, Jane Barker taught Vic at Huntingtower between 1989 to 1993.
9: Congratulations, Shannon Jones (Class of ’13) on being awarded a Master of Physiotherapy. Shannon is standing with her proud parents, Alan and Carol. Alan taught Chemistry at Huntingtower, launched Bruce House and was Head of Sport. He is now Principal of Christchurch Grammar in Perth.
10: Jan Tyquin with David Hudd (Class of ’03). David worked for 8 years in Europe as a cardiac perfusion nurse before returning to Australia 3 years ago. He is now a business development manager for a medical device company.
11: Jane and Kate Barker (Class of ‘13) and Jane and Dave Lundegard, parents of Laura (Clairbourn trip 2009). The photo commemorates the 10-year friendship between the Barker and Lundegard family, who are from Pasadena. The Barkers hosted Laura Lundegard in 2009 and Kate and Laura are best friends. The Barkers cherish the connection made by the Huntingtower/ Clairbourn exchange.
6: Heather Cole (Class of ’05) and her husband, Andrew Ploenges with their daughters Lena and Rory (born in June).
7: Alison Cole (Class of ’06) with her husband, Paul Stevenson and their son, Mason (born in April).
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In 1927, a group of Christian Scientists established Huntingtower with the purpose of helping its students reach their unlimited potential. Huntingtower continues to be based firmly on the principles of Christian Science. Generations of students have passed through the school, their success measured in fine academic results and fulfilling lives. The school’s needs have traditionally been met by the generous support of benefactors, supplemented with government financial assistance. In order to ensure Huntingtower’s progress and lessen its reliance on government funding, the founders of the school set up different ways for supporters to help the school financially.
You may like to consider any of the following:
• Grants, bequests or donations to the Huntingtower Foundation (A Foundation set up by Trust Deed to preserve and maintain the school’s financial independence)
• Tax Deductible donations to the Property and Building Fund (A fund set up to assist the school in adding new facilities)
• Grants or donations to the Mather Foundation (named after Mr. J.B. Mather, Principal 1949-1972, and set up as a restricted endowment. Whilst the assets cannot be used, the income from the assets contributes towards the running of the school and to student bursaries).
For more information on any of these or to register a bequest via a will or codicil please contact:
Business Manager, Huntingtower School, 77 Waimarie Drive, Mt Waverley 3149, Australia
Phone: (03)9807 8888, e: [email protected]
Preserving our independence
Dates to remember
Credits:
Editor and Art Director: Jan TyquinDesign: Redfish Bluefish CreativePhotography: Phil Amos, Richard Cai, Dennis Huang, Patrick Mitchell & Jan TyquinPrinted by: Alpha Printing Co. Pty Ltd
Huntingtower School Association A.B.N. 23 004 231 654If you know of someone who would like to receive the Huntingtower News, please ask them to contact the school on 9807 8888 or email Jan Tyquin at [email protected]
• November 29: Senior School Speech Night (Robert Blackwood Hall)
• December 6: Term 4 concludes
• January 29, 2020: Commencement Day
FRONT COVER PHOTOS: What a career! Huntingtower will be always grateful for the magnificent contributions made over more than 30 years by the retiring Principal, Sholto Bowen OAM
ABOVE: Formally Fabulous staff at this year’s School Formal. Back row: Janet Irving, James Bahn, Mel Beal, Jayne Dickson, Odile Morozzani, Sholto Bowen, Susan Swan, Claire Cassidy, Daniel Borbely, Brett Borbely and Phil Amos. Front row: Sandra Tiepermann, Leigh Parsons, Anthony Wroe, Rodney Jones, Greg Hellard, Cassandra Benevides, Marta Lopez and Claudia Ohlert (MAC Photos)