The Barker - Summer 2016 #113 by Barker College

Summer 2016 Issue 113 ISSN: 2204-938X

Together in Learning. BARKER COLLEGE,

A FULLY COEDUCATIONAL SCHOOL BY 2022

CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

03 The Red Thread

The Regulars 04 Darkinjung Barker 2016 and Beyond 06 Behind the Scenes at the Prep School 08 Creating Lifelong Learners 12 Middle School Music Tour 22 Alumni Profile: Lucy Sparkles 30 Tutoring, Teamwork and Tears in Timor 44 The Old Barker: Melissa Mitchell

The Features 01 Recognising what is “right” Phillip Heath 02 Chairman's Message Ian Miller

Visual Arts: James Vodicka

47 OBA President's Message Tony Gamson

Issue 113 Summer 2016 The Barker is the quarterly magazine of Barker College Editor-in-Chief Mr Phillip Heath

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Editor Glenn Quevedo Assistant Coordinators Mandy Loomes Karina Drummond Print Production Ian Lindsay 0419 693 308 Art Direction Yolanda Koning 0404 811 136 facebook.com/barkercollege @barkercollege

24 Captains Induction

FROM THE HEAD

what is 'right'

This year has been an exhilarating time at Barker College. We truly looked “beyond the Mint Gates”. We embarked on two-way practical reconciliation with our First Nation people by establishing the Darkinjung Barker campus at Yarramalong. The results after our first year of operation are astounding. In 2016 we established a second Kindergarten class and, for the first time, offered a Pre Kindy class. We created new roles in teaching and administration, seeking to be agile and adaptable to the constant change now besetting education. More recently, we proudly announced our intention to become fully coeducational by 2022. This decision completes the story that first began in 1890 at Kurrajong when the Founder, the Rev Henry Plume, invited girls to be part of the school that would soon after be known as Barker College. The future of a just and compassionate Australia depends on the capacity of our young people to be respectful of the talents of others, irrespective of gender, ethnicity or even cultural background. Building on the superb culture of the Barker Senior School (formed in 1975), the inclusion of girls from a younger age provides us with the opportunity to truly fulfil our Vision to be a leader in Christian education that inspires global hope. The School honours the lasting contribution of our retiring Chairman, Mr Ian Miller, who concludes his time on our Council at the end of 2016. During his term of office, he has given countless hours of service and immense professional acumen. He presided over the selection of two Heads, numerous building projects and guided the increasingly dynamic complexity of our governance during changing times. He has been an outstanding example of Christian leadership, one that upholds the Barker Values and exemplifies our motto, Honor Non Honores. We welcome our next Chair, Mr Peter Berkley, to his new post in 2017. It has been a momentous year in the life of our School. The pages that follow celebrate the manifold blessings of the Lord lavished upon our community. “What shall I return to the LORD for all his goodness to me?” Psalm 116:2 Peace. Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

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It was renowned educator Kurt Hahn, the founder of Gordonstoun School and the Outward Bound organisation who said: “Education must enable young people to effect what they have recognised to be right, despite hardships, despite dangers, despite inner scepticism, despite boredom, and despite mockery from the world.” The work of a school, especially a school like Barker College, is a serious matter because we are charged with the task of “enabling young people to effect what they have recognised to be right”. How are they to discover this? Recognising what is “right”, especially in this present age of relativism, is a challenging task. Even a quick glance at social media suggests that we now live in the time of the citizen journalist when opinions can be voiced freely, instantly and globally. Kurt Hahn’s remarks pertained to a world in which the passage of ideas, even pernicious ideas, was moderated by the available technology of his time (1974-1966). It took time to write papers and to publish them. It also took time to frame responses to these papers and disseminate such thoughts. Not so any more. The world in which our students are growing experiences the Internet, which has opened to students a bewildering world of ideas and information. Some of this information masquerades as knowledge and even truth. If Kurt Hahn was correct when he described the purpose of education being to “enable young people to effect what they recognised to be right”, it is necessary to provide a safe place for students to explore their concepts of right and wrong, of truth and falsehood, of worth and doubt. They must be given the capacity to thrive. They must be given a voice to ask questions and the patience to hear the answers. They must be offered experiences that will allow them to discover their best selves and to see the best version of others around them. They must be exposed to a diverse community and encouraged to include the voices of others. They must also be made aware of the great responsibility that comes from the privileges they have to live in such a country and attend such a school. At Barker we also encourage our students to view what is right through the lens of the great story of Jesus.

Mr Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Chairmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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his is a truly exciting time in the life of Barker College, with our announcement that the School is introducing a full coeducation program throughout the School by 2022, starting with Kindergarten and PreKindergarten in 2018 with girls gradually commencing in years 3 and 7 in later years. This decision has involved the further consideration of the mission and vision which the School Council has adopted for our School. This proposal has the full support of the Head of Barker College and the Barker College staff. This is probably not an unexpected step, as Barker College introduced coeducation in Years 11 and 12 in 1975 and later in Year 10, but it will change the life of the School dramatically. This decision will build upon the strength of Barker College in its academic, co-curricular and pastoral care areas. The decision also meets a continuing demand from our parent community and families interested in enrolling their children at Barker College enabling both girls and boys to come to Barker College for all their educational requirements. The School Council believes that the opportunities available at Barker College will enable both girls and boys to learn and develop teamwork together in preparation for life where there is little distinction in the employment they can now undertake in society. In the academic research on this area of education as well as our own background research, the School Council has found that the benefits of coeducation are significant in most areas of personal growth. Similar schools which have also developed our Senior School model have moved to offer a full coeducational program throughout those schools. In enrolling girls into the School, in years other than 10-12, Barker College will build upon its experience in caring for girls over the past 40 years and will ensure that appropriate arrangements are made for both learning together as well as having opportunities for separate educational experiences where appropriate. Our outstanding pastoral care program, which provides support for each of our students, will be expanded to ensure that the programs developed for the Senior School are appropriately adapted and developed for boys and girls from Pre-Kindergarten. To cater for the additional student enrolments, the School Council is now in the process of developing additional teaching facilities as well as sporting facilities. The new

Sports Hall will be completed during 2019 ready for the enrolment of girls into the Middle School as will be a number of other facilities. I trust that you will support this new initiative which will allow the Barker experience to be offered to so many more students. More information will be made available as preparations are made for implementation. As you would be aware, I am retiring on 31 December 2016 as Chairman of the School Council and it is with some sadness that I now write my last comments as Chairman. I have worked with three Heads of Barker College over a period of more than 20 years in serving the School. It has been a privilege and honour to serve Barker College in my capacity as Council Member and as Chairman of the School Council and I wish to express my personal thanks to each of my fellow Council members, the Heads of Barker College, our outstanding Barker staff and the Barker community for their support during this period for the decisions made by the School Council. I have had the pleasure of seeing the School grow dramatically, both in enrolments and in its facilities over this time. In all our endeavours, the School Council has sought to care for each of our students and to ensure that an outstanding educational program is made available to them. I believe Barker College is an outstanding School and a great place for our students to grow under the teaching programs developed by each of our staff members and now, especially, under the direction and the care of our present Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath. I express my good wishes to Mr Peter Berkley who is taking over as Chair of the Council of Barker College as from 1 January 2017. I pray that God may indeed continue to bless this School, its students and staff under the leadership of both Mr Berkley and Mr Heath in 2017 and onwards. Ian Miller Chairman

The There is a red ribbon that runs through the windows of our Chapel. We sometimes go further and suggest that the same red thread runs through the fabric of the School linking all that we do, providing coherence. What is the red thread? What does it symbolise? The artist, Peter Campbell, designed the windows with the aim to raise questions, rather than give easy answers. When students and staff are asked what it suggests to them, they give a wide range of answers including: God’s presence, Grace, Hope, Life’s Enduring Questions. Some of us have been suggesting that the notion of Blessing is the red thread, and that this notion runs, not only through our Chapel windows, but through everything we do at Barker: in the classroom, on the sporting fields, on stage, and so on. This is something we talk about a lot: ‘we have so many wonderful opportunities’, ‘those to whom much has been given, much can be expected’, and ‘we have been blessed, in order to be a blessing’.

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

Below The Barker Year 11 Crossroads team in Hong Kong.

The Barker Year 11 team Our Social Justice Chaplain, Tom Anderson, said after the recent Year 11 trip to Crossroads in Hong Kong: “It was my fourth visit. We helped them with the distribution of goods to needy areas of the world and packed a shipping container bound for Uganda. For many of us, the poverty simulations were really powerful. We were all impacted by the needs of the poor around the world and how difficult it is for those who live below the poverty line to get themselves out of their predicament. As a school, I love that Barker is committed to justice: a fair-go for all. Through Footprint and our Social Justice Captains we are seeking to raise awareness of social and environmental justice issues and empower students to have an active response. When I consider what we are seeking to do, the words of Micah 6:8 come to mind: ‘He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’

Left The Red Thread

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Jeff Ware School Chaplain

DARKINJUNG BARKER

Below Cultural awareness with Aunty Wendy

“The anticipation and anxieties of starting a new school seem such a long time ago. We are a school, a functioning school working on the beginning steps of supporting our beautiful children as they embark on their education journey.”

Darkinjung Barker 2016

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e have nearly travelled once around the sun since commencing at Yarramalong. This time last year I could not have imagined that we would be standing here reminiscing on such a successful first year of Darkinjung Barker. The anticipation and anxieties of starting a new school seem such a long time ago. We are a School, a functioning School working on the beginning steps of supporting our beautiful children as they embark on their education journey. In the last week of Term 3, some Year 11 students headed up to Yarramalong for their service learning camp. We had 25 caring and compassionate young men and women spend several days working with our children and around the grounds. It was a valuable experience for all involved. I asked Falito van Woerkom to reflect on the time he spent with us. “For the first time, we, as Year 11 have journeyed to Darkinjung Barker with a nervous, yet eager anticipation to greet and embrace the students and in particular our partnered buddies. After entering the driveway, our levels of excitement rose. Mr Shackleton welcomed us as we toured the unfamiliar grounds of Yarramalong. The children politely greeted us with enthusiasm and smiling faces. Each

boy and girl was equally interactive, asking endless curious questions. How old are you? What year are you in? What is your favourite sport? All of the children love to be outside, each of them remaining in close contact with their buddy. The fun we shared in playing touch footy, soccer, ‘bull rush’ or tip led to memorable experiences. We were constantly trying to match the unreachable energy levels of the children. The opportunity to be involved in gardening also brought an attitude of gratefulness in serving a School. Through this adventure, we now have come to figure out Darkinjung Barker is part of the greater Barker. It is valuable to Barker’s character and I hope that we can inspire the students to learn and grow in the best way. As the year draws to a close I’d like to encourage you to visit our beautiful part of the world in 2017. To the many staff and visitors that we have had in 2016, I’d like to say thank you for your contribution to the lives of our children. Jamie Shackleton Darkinjung Barker Campus Coordinator

DARKINJUNG BARKER

Clockwise from left Year 2 students enjoying their independent reading time; Our older children; A visit to Hornsby campus

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PREPARATORY SCHOOL THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Behind the Scenes

There are many people who contribute each day to the smooth running of the Prep School, as well as ensuring a safe, secure and well presented environment for the students, staff and community.

he day starts with Security opening the gates at 6.30am ready for the arrival of OSH Club staff and students. Around the same time Clayton, one of our Garden staff, commences his daily tasks of removing the sandpit covers, raking the sand and setting up the digger and tonka trucks. At 7.00am Clayton starts up the leaf blower ensuring that the playground, paths and carpark are free of leaves and litter. Clayton also cares for the front lawns of the Clarke Road houses, as well as the nature strip from Unwin Road to Marillian Avenue. At the end of the School day, Clayton covers the two sandpits and removes the rubbish from the playground bins. During each of the holiday breaks, Clayton cleans the sandpit equipment and giant chess sets, gurneys all the paths and paved area under the oak tree. Several times a week, Brendan, Darren, Michael and Paul from the Garden team tend to the gardens surrounding the classrooms, in the carpark and the adjacent cottages. At this time of the year the annuals are flourishing, particularly on the bank behind the Pre-Kindergarten outdoor learning space and in the garden beds at the front of the Administration

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

sandpit. Contractors were responsible for both laying artificial turf around the sandpit and in the backyard of the OSH Club cottage and for the construction of stairs to improve access from the playground to Clarke Road. Essential support is provided each day by the Registered Nurses from the Barker Clinic. Either Karen, Cath, Angela, Imelda or Lisa are located in the Prep Administration Cottage and attend to the ongoing medical needs of a number of our young students. They are also available to treat any student who may require First Aid during the day. The nutritional needs of the students are met by Roz in the Canteen, who brings morning tea and lunch orders to the Prep School no matter what the weather conditions. Pascal, our Food Services Manager, makes sure that the staff kitchen is well stocked with coffee, tea, milk, biscuits, fruit and salad rolls. Also behind the scenes is our Security Team, who provide essential support in the afternoons and evenings as well as on the weekends. During the holidays, they even look after our chickens and budgerigar. Our Cleaners are also on hand throughout the day and each evening to ensure that the Prep School is clean and well presented. Prep would not be the place that it is without the dedication of these teams who make daily contributions to support the education of the youngest members of our Barker Community. Sarah Dickson Head of Early Learning

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Cottage. The team also assists by purchasing seedlings and Paul, in particular, works alongside the teachers and students to plant and maintain the vegetable plots. During the holidays, the team also spends time replenishing the soft-fall under the play equipment, mulching the garden beds, re-turfing worn patches of lawn, topping up the sand pit and cleaning the storage shed. Andrew and Brad can regularly be seen cutting the playground grass on their ride-on mowers. When required, a large crane is used to trim the oak tree and an arborist routinely checks the health of this magnificent tree. On any given day in the Prep School, assistance from the Maintenance Department is often required. Barbara, the Facilities Administration Assistant, is always responsive to urgent requests and ongoing maintenance needs. Andrew, Kevin and Mal and their respective teams respond to a wide range of requests such as carpentry repairs, pickups and deliveries, assembling equipment, electrical, gas and plumbing repairs, movement of furniture and setting up for functions. Rob and John make numerous deliveries to Prep each day and are responsive to requests to deliver items to other parts of the School. Rob, Andrew and Harry are willing to assist with any task required. Every afternoon, Mick collects the school bags of the students attending swimming lessons and transports them by golf buggy to the Aquatic Centre. During the holiday periods, larger maintenance and construction tasks are undertaken. Most recently John installed an emergency evacuation system, while Andrew and David restored shutters and created a frame for the playground scenes mounted on the wall adjacent to the

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Creating Lifelong In the September school holidays, Dr Greg Cunningham and I presented two papers at the Australian Association for the Education of Gifted and Talented (AAEGT) National Gifted Conference in Sydney.

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T 8

he Conference focus was ‘Beyond the Boundaries’ and we were fortunate to present one paper on ‘Why do we need our gifted children to be Inquirers and Lifelong Learners – Thinking, Understanding and Inquiring’ and another on ‘Why is Growth Mindset important in fostering Talent Development’. We shared how we are challenging our Barker students to look beyond the boundaries of the Mint Gates by becoming inquisitive and engaged learners in all that they do. We shared the ten attributes of the IB Learner Profile which are; inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced and reflective. The Inquiry Learner Profile is driving all our Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6 programs, both within and beyond the classroom. The aim of all IB programs is to develop international-minded people who, recognising their

common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. These attributes underpin the mission statement of the Primary Years' Program and help students to articulate and reflect upon how they are becoming a better learner. Research supports the importance of inquiry learning to meet the different abilities in the classroom. Inquiry advocates investigation, exploration, research and study through personal connection. It is enhanced by involvement with a community of learners, with each student learning from the other through social interaction (Kuhlthau, et al, 2007). A differentiated process such as inquiry-based learning adds depth, challenge and enjoyment (Heacox, 2002). At the Conference, we were able to share the new programs we have implemented that better meet the needs of all our students, demonstrating how this growth will manifest from Pre-Kindergarten through to Year 12. We believe these ten attributes of the Learner Profile can help Barker students become responsible members of local, national and global communities. Our Year 3 Science and Technology Inquiry unit in Term 3 saw the students investigate how they could protect a chocolate ‘Kinder’ egg by creating an insulation igloo to assist it to survive the slippery dip challenge, the pocket challenge, the sunbake sizzle and some other interesting scenarios. What they learned on the day of investigation was that magpies like shiny objects, as three eggs were swooped upon and stolen by two hungry magpies. It is always interesting following where a line of inquiry can lead our students.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Our Year 6 students inquired into the significance of people, groups, places and events to the development of Australia as a nation. They investigated different experiences of people living in Australia and described the causes and effects of change in Australian society. They also engaged with the stories of various migrant groups and their contribution to Australia’s economic and social development. The learning provocation of a red suitcase, which is part

Caroline Merrick Director of Primary Curriculum (PYP Coordinator) PreK-6

Above Focused on learning Left Using iPAds to inquire

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of the National Treasures Exhibition in Melbourne’s Immigration Museum, emphasised the concepts of change and causation. The students had to consider what they would take to a new country and what would show they had arrived and had something worthwhile to contribute. Could all this fit in a small suitcase no bigger than a Barker backpack? We finished our conference presentation at the AAEGT with the inspirational video of Barker’s Year 12 student Rachel Liang handcrafting a violin, which she created for her HSC major work. I am inspired every time I watch it and I can see why it has received close to 50,000 views since it was shared on the web. Watching this video gave me cause to reflect upon the ten attributes of a learner and I think all ten were evident in the six minute video, which is online for those who have missed it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=i43Q7PrApso. Our Inquiry programs aim to do more than other curricula; we have an intentional focus on academic rigour and students’ emotional well-being by developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed. The results have shown higher engagement and increased depth of learning for all our students.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Learning informed by Action Research...

RESEARCH RESEARCH

DATA

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ACTION

TEACHING & LEARNING

— a new way forward! Presently, the increased emphasis on using data to measure learning has reached epidemic proportions... own school-based research with colleagues in a formal yet supportive environment, encouraging the reflective process whereby they think and reflect on their teaching. Many of the staff who present are undertaking further degrees ranging from Masters to Doctoral studies, but this is not always the case. Some staff present on their Action Research where they study “something (they) have encountered in the real world of education” (Parsons et al., p.10, 2013). Recently, the NSW Association of Independent Schools (AIS) has moved to acknowledge those who undertake research in this way so that teachers can attain their Experienced Teacher accreditation via an ‘Action Research’ project which runs parallel to the existing standardsbased accreditation pathway. Here staff collect evidence in a rigorous, year-long process and document their professional learning and reflection in alignment with the national professional standards for teachers. This is an exciting initiative as it provides a realistic connection point for staff with an interest in research to develop and engage in a meaningful exploration of something that fascinates them. For many staff, this process may be the start of a much longer journey that leads to a further degree or professional qualification, but this is not always the case. Most importantly, we create a culture of professional learning and research that informs learning, is embedded in practice, while assisting the students to engage more deeply. All teachers are action researchers every day, collecting data on the run, observing interactions, making judgements and connecting their informal findings. Now there is the opportunity for staff to achieve accreditation for their research as it aligns with the professional teaching standards. It is wonderful that we can foster lifelong learning in this way at Barker College. Dr Brad Merrick Director of Research in Learning and the Barker Institute Dr Greg Cunningham Director of Teaching and Learning and the College of Teachers www.barkerinstitute.com.au @BarkerInstitute Sharing innovation, research & professional learning throughout the education community. Fostering inspired teaching practice locally, nationally and globally.

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n this context, most aspects of a student’s educational journey are often equated with a numerical value. In certain situations this is a necessity for comparative access to courses (for example, the ATAR score) or for ranking in subjects (the HSC credential). However, the inherent emphasis on numbers can often mask the need to have teachers in class who are constantly reviewing and monitoring their teaching so that it aligns with the needs of the students. At Barker College, we continue to challenge staff and, more importantly, our students to think beyond content learning. They are encouraged to ask the big questions rather than being satisfied just to recount knowledge for an examination. Lifelong learning is the key. Teachers, like parents, need to be lifelong learners as well. Educational research has been defined as “a mysterious exercise for revered scholars in ivory towers who collect and decipher and disseminate to the masses, information on best practices” (Parsons et al., p.1, 2013). Often conducted in a scientific or controlled environment it has its place, but the alignment with the teaching and learning in the school environment can be questionable. On reflection, it is often the divide between the academic evidence presented in large studies and journals that makes it hard for research to inform ‘real’ teaching practice in the classroom. Well-regarded researcher, Professor John Hattie, acknowledges that the teacher alone is the single most significant contributor to the learning of any student. At Barker College, we strive to develop a culture of “Research in Practice” rather than “Research of Practice” whereby our staff are encouraged to explore areas of their work that inspire and captivate them and then feed that new knowledge back into the classroom. It is only by asking these questions and being disposed to explore teaching and learning through a reflective lens that we can hope to learn more and to inspire our students. Educational philosopher, John Dewey, highlighted the importance of self-reflection in the learning process many years ago when he noted, “We do not learn from experience... we learn from reflecting on experience”. Barker College has a large commitment to the professional learning of staff and much of this is underpinned by research that informs our curriculum, assessment and practice. This month, the 8th Annual Post-Graduate Forum will be held as part of the Barker Institute’s community program. Here, staff share their

MUSIC

Middle School As the scores of Middle School musicians and their parents gathered at Sydney Airport very early one morning in the spring holidays, one staff member was overheard to say, “Eighty-eight teenage boys on the Gold Coast – what could possibly go wrong?”

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ome suggested he was deluded, or at least extremely optimistic, but thankfully nothing went wrong, and a lot went right. The students workshopped, rehearsed and performed for three days in a concert band, jazz band, choir and string orchestra. We touched down early Thursday morning to a very sunny and welcoming Gold Coast day. After a quick stretch of the legs at Broadbeach, the touring party headed over to the Emmanuel College for our first round of workshops and rehearsals. The staff were thrilled to catch up with former Barker staff member, Eliot Sanger (86), who is now working at Emmanuel as Head of Senior School. We were also pleased to work with the energetic and enthusiastic Mr Tuppen, who is the Head of Music. The staff and students at the school were extremely hospitable, and it was a great joy to have the opportunity to meet some of the students from Emmanuel. The Middle School Choir got the chance to work with the Grace Notes, a girls' choir with students from Year 8 to 11. The addition of the girls’ voices with our treble and changed voice choir created a full and harmonious sound. We were then ushered into the main hall of the school to perform in a concert featuring ensembles from each school, as well as two combined choir items to close the concert. By this stage, everyone was ready for a good night's rest at the accommodation. Little did we know we had full use of a large beach volleyball and basketball area until 9 pm. We can safely say that the students took full advantage of these facilities.

The second day was a morning concert at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast. We arrived early by coach and eventually hauled in all of our equipment required to run a full concert band, string orchestra and choir. The staff and students were excellent in the way they were able to build the stage area, and reset between ensembles. The remainder of the afternoon was then free for students to let their hair down (or up, depending on the ride) and explore the park. During this time, there was a lot of talk of the Big 9 – a collection of nine of the most thrilling rides, including the aptly named Buzz Saw, Giant Drop and Tower of Terror. Of course, the students flocked to these rides as the staff members steered clear (except for Mr McWade, who expertly ticked off each one). We couldn’t leave Dreamworld without a group shot in front of the spinning globe at the entrance, topping off another fantastic day. On Saturday, our final day, we travelled by coach to the Brisbane suburb of Indooroopilly to work with the staff and students at St Peter’s Lutheran College. We were greeted by a very friendly Mr Grantley Sutch, the Director of Bands at St Peter’s, who led us through to the wonderfully appointed Music Centre. Here, we were lucky to have time to work with the St Peter’s staff to form a combined band, combined string orchestra, and combined choir. The combined choir were even lucky enough to have a workshop hosted by Bob Stewart from the Queensland Conservatorium. Each school brought one piece each for this collaboration. After a productive rehearsal session and equally productive lunch, we presented our combined programs to an audience of St Peter’s parents and friends. Highlights were a stunning performance of The Force Awakens from the band, Gauntlet from the string orchestra, and May It Be from the choir. Then it was back on the coach for the journey to Brisbane Airport. Touching down at Sydney, the tired yet enthusiastic group said their farewells. The staff were particularly impressed by the way so many students made it a point to personally thank each staff member for providing this opportunity. Working with students from the Emmanuel School on the Gold Coast and St Peter’s Lutheran School in Brisbane, as well as wowing the crowds at Dreamworld, these young musicians showed maturity and focus which gave them wonderful learning and performing experiences. David Saffir & Andy Mifsud Music Department

MUSIC

Mr Saffir taking the combined String Orchestra at St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lutheran College, Brisbane

Mr McWade and the Stage Band performing at Emmanuel College, Gold Coast

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Touching down at Sydney, the tired yet enthusiastic group said their farewells. The staff were particularly impressed by the way so many students made it a point to personally thank each staff member for providing this opportunity.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Clockwise from left Kate Mildren and Katelyn Bramwell show off their Major Textiles Projects; Rachel Liang and her remarkable Violin; The People's Choice

Design Showcase

The implementation of a new subject at Barker, Textiles and Design, has provided students with a new opportunity to showcase their creative talent.

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he Fashion Show, which was ably supported by the Drama Department under the consummate guidance of Dugal Parker, was opened by The Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath. This is the first Fashion Show that Barker has held for Year 12 students and it was exciting to celebrate the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work under bright lights in a spectacular, dynamic production. A wide range of apparel carefully crafted through sophisticated techniques and with carefully selected fabrics painted a dizzying picture on the night. From business attire to children's clothing and haute couture, there was much to admire. Kate Mildren and Annika Lellman were jointly awarded the Head of Barker Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prize on the night, and I commend all students on the quality of the work they produced. Year 11 Textile and Design students also contributed to the evening with a display of their mini major projects. Congratulations to all of the students who have worked so hard and thank you to Miss Williamson who has contributed so much of her time in support of them. The Design and Technology and Industrial Technology Exhibition once again provided an impressive and diverse range of projects. It was an honour to have Mr Chris Russell (70) join us once again to open the exhibition, and local artisan joiner and craftsman Wayne Mavin to judge the Timber projects. There were some outstanding projects on display, though Rachel Liang's violin was a stand-out as acknowledged by all, and she received the People's Choice Award on the night. Hamish Shaw received the Judge's Award for outstanding craftsmanship for his Contemporary Desk. The Design and

Technology Judges Award for a Multimedia project went to Claire Metcalfe for her 'Bluey Check' asthma monitor, and the People's Choice Award for Multimedia went to Chris Hinds for his architectural redesign of the Design Centre. The Design and Technology Judges Award for a Materials project went to Michael Fletcher for his 'Fidgeting Chair' designed to engage ADHD students, and the People's Choice Award went to Morgan Overmass for her range of Commemorative Barker Jewellery. Once again, congratulations to all students for the concerted effort you have put into producing quality work. It was pleasing to see so many students take on projects that did not have a well-defined pathway moving forward, iterating their designs and solving problems along the way. Whilst difficult at the time, they have gained so much more from embracing risk. And thank you to all the teachers and support staff who so willingly gave of their time and expertise. Without your efforts the journey for our students would become far more treacherous. Congratulations to the class of 2016, may the skills and processes you have acquired serve you well in your future careers and help you to differentiate yourselves from others in your chosen fields of expertise. Darren Woodrow Head of Design and Technology

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

on World Stage

Team ZERO was proud to be titled Australian National Champions at the 2016 National Finals.

They were grateful to have the opportunity to take part in such a worthwhile program and are proud to have made it to the World Finals – the top 0.005% of competitors in the world. Team ZERO set a new personal best track time of 1.024 seconds; however, this was not sufficient against some teams who broke the one second barrier. The team performed extremely well in all other categories and recognise that it is quite an achievement to be placed in the top 40-50 students in a competition engaging over 20 million students world-wide every year. Team ZERO extends a BIG thank you to all of their major sponsors who provided such generous support to the team. These include; Healthecare, Vivante, LEAP Australia, REA, Old Barker Association, Snap Printing Waitara and Barker College. A sincere thanks to the many other sponsors who supported the team in their preparation and journey over two years. The ability to engage in a demanding project such as F1 in Schools fosters STEAM skills, promotes inquiry, business management and strategic thinking skills, and develops long-term employability skills. I am extremely proud of how well the members of Team ZERO have applied themselves and the polite and professional manner in which they engaged with other teams and judges from around the world. They have been excellent ambassadors for Barker and Australia. Darren Woodrow Head of Design and Technology

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heir preparation for the World Finals was intense. Team ZERO consisted of only three members, making them the smallest team at the World Finals. While this allowed them to communicate easily, it also meant that each team member had to take on a significant amount of work. Other teams shared the workload across five or six members. Team ZERO’s preparation involved massive time commitments, late nights and a lot of hard work. They learned how to deal with set-backs, how to apply many new skills, how to experiment, analyse, communicate effectively and how to be innovative. It is amazing to see how far the team has come through their participation in the F1 in Schools program. They have developed their project management skills, knowledge and understanding in a wide range of areas exponentially, and I know that these attributes will provide these students with a significant advantage over other applicants within the career paths that they may choose to pursue. Josh Lorschy, Jack Conwell and Justin Ford have all learnt to produce content and engage with an audience at a world class standard. There was an exceptionally high level of competition at this year’s F1 in Schools World Finals held in Austin, Texas in October. With over 39 teams competing for the title of World Champions, they were up against some of the best young minds from around the world. After six tough months of preparation and a week of competing, Team ZERO finished in 8th place overall.

VISUAL ARTS

Profile James Vodicka, 19 years of age (class of 2014) has fast established himself as an outstanding professional photographer. Whilst he invests a significant amount of time in to this passion, he remains focused on his tertiary studies at Macquarie University. Mr Bentham interviewed James and discovered a boundless enthusiasm for photography and a worldly-wise perspective... How and when did your passion for photography develop?

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You are an accomplished painter and sculptor among other things. What made you decide to focus your attention towards photography?

Growing up I always had a strong passion for anything creative, whether that be creating my own Monopoly– style board games, planning the floor plans of my dream house or working tirelessly on my latest school art project. For me, the focus was always on the creative element of the work – the ideas and planning behind it, rather than the medium used to create it. I sort of stumbled upon photography at first. I began taking photographs on family holidays and fell in love with the possibility of capturing moments and scenes to bring back home with me – my own little souvenirs.

As I became more interested in photographic practice and began to learn more about the technical aspects of the medium, I realised its creative potential. I continued working on paintings and sculptures at school and left photography for my holidays. I didn’t actually see it as anything other than a hobby until about two years ago when I won my first major photographic competition. Since then, I haven’t been able to put a camera down.

One of James’ sculptures completed for HSC Visual Arts

What excites you about photography? What excites me most about photography is the moment of incredible joy when all of the time spent preparing for a shot pays off and I’m able to pull all of the elements together to create an inspiring image. This buzz usually lasts for about a day, and then the next crazy idea pops into my head. I recently decided to invest in an Aquatech Surf Housing which is basically a big plastic case that protects my camera and allows me to shoot in the ocean. The

unpredictable nature of water and the interplay of liquid and light on the ocean’s surface always draws me back in search of a unique perspective or interesting angle. The ability to shoot whilst in water has opened up a whole new world of possibilities that I can’t wait to explore.

VISUAL ARTS

"Manly Mayhem" 2016 Moran Contemporary Photopraphic Prize Finalist.

What has been the most interesting photography destination you have been to? Can you discuss why? I have recently begun to focus more on travel photography, partnering with resorts and tourism companies to produce inspiring imagery from some pretty incredible locations. The highlight of this year would have to be snorkeling with giant oceanic manta rays off Lady Elliot Island in the southern Great Barrier Reef. Photographing empty beaches and sunrises is great, but it is these interactions with nature that always produce the most profound experiences. Do you hope or envisage that you will be able to utilise the skills you have developed in your university studies with Media and Marketing?

Left A painting completed by James in Year 10

that are way out of your comfort zone in order to reach your goals. More than the knowledge of photography itself, I believe it is the experience of overcoming these challenges that will be the most useful in the future.

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I have been lucky to have received some awards and success from my photography, but I still consider it as a creative outlet rather than a career choice. I am enjoying my Marketing and Media degree and my career aspirations are still very much marketing oriented. Just as anyone who has tried to pursue a creative passion or a business idea would know, there can often be as many challenges and setbacks as achievements. You are forced to constantly adapt, learn new skills, take risks and do things

STEAM THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016 18

Clockwise from top left Ozobot programming with colour; Ethan & Alex meet rockstar physicist Prof Brian Cox; Sam Wise from Year 7 with his Scribblebot; International Year of Pulses with Year 9 at SCINEMA screening

STEAM

STEAMing Barker College has a rich and progressive culture in actively engaging our students and this year we have enhanced our focus on STEAM as an educational approach to learning.

worked through their design and build phase, the final product is run through time trials and measurements taken with Arduino based technology. 2016 has also seen us celebrate Robots, Droids and Drones in schoolwide activities in Science, Mathematics, Computing, Design, Robotics and more. Students were involved in forensics workshops, drama performances with STEMania and guest presentations from Robotics professionals, Robohaus and environmental scientist, Tim Silverwood. Each Middle School Science class had the opportunity to engage in programming with Ozobots and Brown Bag STEAM challenges that involved creative problem solving including construction of Scribblebots from recyclable materials and motors, to cardboard robotic arms and geodesic domes. Tinkering Studios were also set up across lunchtimes in the library forecourt where students could engage in some robot construction and competitions. The Lizard Island Tour for Year 11 Biology also celebrated the year of Robots, Droids and Drones with Mr Scott Graham’s drone piloting skills put to great use as seen on the Barker College YouTube channel. This annual trip takes a group of students with a keen interest in pursuing Biology in their future careers to the University of Sydney research station on Lizard Island where

they get to explore the Great Barrier Reef and engage in scientific research skills with the visiting scientists. The serious effects of coral bleaching and the challenges of climate change were experienced first-hand by our students. During STEAM fortnight in August we were also fortunate to be asked to host a screening of SCINEMA 2016, a selection of the best International Science films of 2016 from the RiAUS, Australia’s national science channel. These videos showcased the best in visual science communication. It was a great evening with the Year 9 Science extension students serving lentil soup and popcorn to celebrate the International Year of Pulses with the Agriculture Department. The place of STEAM education and integration is not new. John Dewey began advocating for this model in the 1930s, but the urgency and imperative to build into this model is essential so that our students do not see their learning as silos. We want to prepare our students for their future studies and work by empowering collaborative and interdisciplinary thinking, helping them to develop creative and social intelligence skills that are key elements for their success in the future. Virginia Ellis STEAM Coordinator

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TEAM leverages Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry and critical thinking. The aim is to develop students who engage in experiential learning, persist in problem solving, embrace collaboration, work creatively and take thoughtful risks in their learning. Our students need to be flexible, agile thinkers who are socially aware and have skills that prepare them to be innovators, leaders and learners in the 21st century. Creativity is the innovation literacy and we are moving forward with new representations and opening new possibilities for our students. Barker has now partnered with the University of Sydney in its STEM Teacher Academy and out of this we are growing a range of initiatives including integrated units that will take us into 2017 and beyond. “Zero to One Hundred in under 2 seconds” is a Year 8 project-based unit of work that is built around the design, build, construction and racing of small carbon dioxide driven dragsters. The project takes them through various phases of research, design, ZSpace ICT investigation of the Bloodhound Project (the fastest land speed vehicle), programming, mathematical calculations, graphing and physics principles. Once the students have

MATHS

Maths Week

Above Students showing a region on the number plane. Below Katy Pickles (Yr 11) taking part in the human number plane

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eek 6, Term 3 is the time we celebrate Maths@Barker. Students are given the opportunity to partake in different activities both inside and outside the classroom. Simon Pampena, the Australian Numeracy Ambassador, stand-up comedian and mathematician, entertained students from Years 9, 10 and 11 with Venn diagrams, different ways that numbers can be represented, a new take on Pythagorasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Theorem and some antics on his favourite number Pi. Years 7 and 8 enhanced their geometry skills by folding coloured paper into congruent rhombuses which made a fantastic display in the library. The IT department helped out with a Year 8 activity involving Arduinos which involved programming a circuit board that turned lights on and off. The Game Show was lots of fun where students from Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 competed in categories such as Maths Spelling, Who Am I, Logic and Maths Maths. Mr Mallam and Mr Carruthers were the quizmasters and Leslie Hall was filled with many spectators enjoying the show. The big finale was on Friday where all students from Years 7 to 12 created the Human Number Plane. Each of the 1600 students was given a set of coordinates and they gathered on Bowman to create a 40 X 40 grid with Mr Heath as the origin. Students were arranged in birthday order and some

analysis of Barkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most and least popular birthdays was an interesting demonstration of probability in action. Mr Hanlon brought the number plane to life by instructing the students to form lines, curves and regions by following some simple algebraic rules. The visual display from above will prove helpful in the teaching of coordinate geometry. The Mathematics department works well to provide students with a variety of activities that enhance their appreciation of mathematics. Ros Hamblyn Assistant Coordinator of Mathematics

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Physical Computing Problem solving, design, computational thinking and coding are skills Year 9 Information and Software Technology (IST) students are developing through the use of the new and innovative BBC micro:bit.

skills in technology, science and engineering. Only released in July this year, we are fortunate to have been able to source and supply a unit for every student in the Year 9 IST classes. The amazing possibilities of the micro:bit is inspiring students to purposefully apply their Python programming skills to solve interesting challenges. Their solutions promote consideration of the relationship between hardware and software in Computer Science. These have included displaying images and messages through the LEDs, measuring and displaying output from the accelerometer and connecting their micro:bit to a smartphone through Bluetooth. Beyond these challenges, students are working on individual projects involving the use of the micro:bit to process input from a range of sources and to make use of different outputs, including motors, speakers and displays. Discovery, creation and innovation are the core of Computer Science and we are excited to see the final creations our students design and develop. Tim Milkins Head of Computer Science

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he micro:bit is a microcontroller developed in the UK to inspire digital creativity and innovation in students. The result of a collaboration between 29 partners, the micro:bit features a matrix of 25 LED lights, two programmable buttons, an accelerometer (motion sensor), a magnetometer (compass), a temperature sensor, Bluetooth and a number of pins for additional input/output options. The aim is to develop core

Above Python code lights the LEDs

ALUMNI PROFILE

Alumni Profile Director of Alumni Relations Mandy Loomes interviewed Lucy Milan from the Class of 2002. Lucy lives in London and owns Lucy Sparkles & Friends, which provides outstanding drama, music and dance classes and parties for young children living in Greater London and Surrey. Tell us about your favourite memories of school. For me it was meeting my two closest friends. They both live in London so we catch-up every month.

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Who was your most influential teacher? Dallas Watts, my singing teacher. He’s incredibly passionate about the power of music and he believed in me when others didn’t.

What was your journey after graduating from Barker? I studied Theatre/Media at Charles Sturt University. Although I graduated top of my class, I struggled to get a job so I moved to London to complete an internship at the Royal Court Theatre. I played Princess Jasmine in a national tour of Aladdin and then tried to get a ‘normal’ job as a radio planner. I quickly realised the corporate world wasn’t for me when my boss told me, “Everyone here is a circle but you are a triangle,” (as though that was a negative thing!). I had always wanted to learn an instrument, so I went back to university to study guitar. In 2008, I started working for a business teaching music and drama to children in preschools.

When did you first dream of setting up your own business? When I began the job, I was appalled by the poor quality of the curriculum. I thought, the children deserve better and the business was so badly managed yet it was financially successful. I realised I could successfully run my own business and do a much better job. I was inspired to create something better. I will always be grateful for this experience. It gave me the motivation and self-confidence to start my own business.

their energy and, to maintain their attention, I have to be 100% aware of each individual child and therefore no awareness of myself. I believe children deserve the best. I am motivated by my desire to provide children with education and entertainment that is worthy of them. I have a lot of competition in London and have no interest in being the biggest, the richest or the most well-known. I just want Lucy Sparkles & Friends to be the best.

How important are social media What has been your career highlight channels, like Twitter and Instagram? to date? In the first couple of years since starting We are in the process of expanding my business in 2009 I used little or no into Australia. One of my London social media. However, as its power grew teachers, who is Australian, is moving I started using it more frequently and to Canberra, and is starting her own it has made marketing simple, cheap, Lucy Sparkles & Friends business there. I fast and effective. I can target a group am beyond thrilled she is bringing my of mums in a specific area on Facebook, brand to the home turf. invite them for free taster classes and get an immediate, measureable What is your favourite activity with response. I’ve got a YouTube channel, the children? which entertains and educates children The start of drama lessons where I lead while acting as a resource for early the children on a magical journey to years practitioners. My most popular ‘Storyland’. They decide how we get there, video has almost 88K unique views so then I lead them in an improvisation it’s certainly useful for brand awareness. based on their ideas (rocket ship, magic carpet, dinosaur etc.). I use no music, How do you maintain your high costumes or props and the children energy level for this career and what interact as though they really are on motivates you? a magical journey. They squeal with It’s hard to explain but when I am excitement and enjoy telling me about working with young children I have all the things they can see. It’s a joy to a never ending supply of energy. I see their imaginations at work. never feel tired, unwell or upset when I’m around them. I naturally feed off

ALUMNI PROFILE

“I believe children deserve the best. I am motivated by my desire to provide children with education and entertainment that is worthy of them.”

What advice do you have for anyone wishing to start their own business? I think a lot of people shy away from starting their own business due to fear of failure. In my opinion, failure is not something to fear. It’s something you learn and move on from. Regret, however, is not something you can learn or move on from. Regret stays with us. My advice is to take a leap of faith and just do it.

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What is the best part of teaching the kids? Being valued. Young children are very open and honest about how they feel and so during lessons they constantly show appreciation for what you are teaching. It is an absolute privilege to spend my time doing something that is valued by other human beings.

CAPTAINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INDUCTION

The Year of Inclusions

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On the first day of Term 4 after much anticipation, the student leaders for 2016/17 were announced.

CAPTAIN’S INDUCTION

Left The Student Leaders' Induction Chapel Service Right School Captains Falito van Woerkom and Abbey Hodge and Vice Captains Felicity Macourt and Mackenzie Day launch “The Year of Inclusion”. Below The Student Leaders Induction Assembly

“The events of this day were a direct reflection of these principles and an exciting precursor to the year ahead.”

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total of 21 Co-curricular leaders and 36 Prefects received their badges and were inducted into their leadership roles in front of staff and students. Amidst all the excitement and anticipation of the day it was the comments made by newly appointed Captains Abbey Hodge and Falito van Woerkom and Vice Captains Felicity Macourt and Mackenzie Day, that echoed most noticeably throughout the OBA sound stage. “This is the year of inclusion” they declared. In an inspiring speech, the new School leaders set a vision for a year that would focus on others, a year characterised by the celebration of diversity, a year where every member of the Barker community would know that they are valued. They invited students from the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools to stand and speak on behalf of their peers in an act of unity that embodied School spirit and community. Following the presentation of this vision, the outgoing Co-curricular Captains of 2016 met over lunch with the newly appointed leaders to share

the future”. Calling for the inductees to pause for a moment, Mr Heath reiterated the famous words of Martin Luther King Jr, encouraging them to “walk in the light of creative altruism”, to take risks and to be driven by their vision for inclusion. Barker’s student leadership model is based on the themes of learning, serving and leading and focuses on qualities such as empathy, humility, building community and listening to others. Consequently, the heart of student leadership lies neither in the badge nor the School Colours printed on a blazer, but rather in leadership through service. It is in selfless their wisdom and advice. As always, this acts of service to others that true proved an extremely fruitful time for leadership is enacted. Each of us holds those new to their roles and functioned responsibilities, official or unofficial, as a wonderful way to acknowledge that enable us to lead others and and thank our outgoing Captains for ourselves. their invaluable service to the School. The day culminated in a leaders' induction service held in the War Memorial Chapel. Family and friends were invited to share in the celebration and The events of this day were a asked to support and encourage the direct reflection of these principles inductees throughout their 12 month and an exciting precursor to the year tenure. ahead. We give thanks for each of the In his address, Mr Heath encouraged newly appointed leaders and offer our the leaders to “be strong and thoughts and prayers as they exercise courageous”, drawing on the leadership leadership in our school over the characteristics displayed by Joshua coming year. who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. “Leaders carry influence. You can Simon Walker be a positive influence… but this takes Director of Student Leadership & Service courage”. Mr Heath implored the new Partnerships leaders to “listen to others, be faithful to their roles and set a clear vision for

MARKET DAY

Clockwise from top left Master Chefs during service; Aerial view of the crowd captured from the drone; Ian Tsai (Yr 9) enjoying his Jellymelon; Krunchy Kreme price list; Papas boys proud of their achievements

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Year 9

Market Day gives Year 9 Commerce students the opportunity to become entrepreneurs for the term!

s part of their learning about ‘Running a Business’ students develop a business plan and then execute it on Market Day. Working as a small team comprised of a CEO, CFO, Marketing Manager and Operations Manager they are responsible for every element of the business. On the day itself students compete in a busy and bustling marketplace to sell their goods. We saw many students displaying creativity and originality with products such as meatball subs, quesadillas and s’mores. These were alongside such classics as an Aussie BBQ, milkshakes and homemade treats. Kate Snell Legal Studies Teacher

GEOGRAPHY

Visiting the breathtaking Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam & Cambodia Tour On 24 September, 16 eager Geography students set off from Sydney to Vietnam and Cambodia, to explore and engage in the local culture, geography and make new connections outside of our comfort zones.

Above The tour group enjoying the Mekong Delta on a traditional Vietnamese fishing boat

and the tree covered Ta Prohm Temple. Then came our last day when we had to say goodbye to Cambodia and Vietnam, but first we visited a silk farm, and watched as artisans carefully created silk patterns. After an incredible trip, we said goodbye and returned home. It was a fantastic trip full of lifelong memories and two countries we will never forget. Benjamin Malik Student

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tarting in Hanoi, we ate dinner and then headed out the next day to witness the stunning geology of Ha Long Bay. After returning to Hanoi we headed south on the Reunification Express, a sleeper train, which travelled overnight through the hundreds of different landscapes of Vietnam. Arriving in Hue, we explored the modern city and the famed imperial citadel. We then travelled along the “Perfume River”, where we learnt about the significance of the natural world and religion to Vietnamese people. Leaving Hue, we headed south to Hoi An. We wandered Hoi An, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of local life. The next day, we flew into Ho Chi Minh City, where we practised our bargaining, and explored the evocative and chilling War Museum, before heading to the Mekong Delta. Here, during our days in the delta, we saw local industry and how the Vietnamese have lived for hundreds of years. After returning to Ho Chi Minh City, we visited the Thien Phuoc orphanage where we met many disabled children, brightening their days and them ours. Before we left Vietnam, we visited the Cu Chi tunnels. Travelling on to Phnom Penh, we visited the horrific and often unremembered S-21 prison camp, which under the rule of the Khmer Rouge was home to over 17,000 prisoners. We then visited a “killing field” where over 20,000 people were executed between 1975-79. We then headed to Siem Reap, but on the way we tried some local food-spiders! We next visited the famed temples of Angkor, including the huge Angkor Wat

LANGUAGES

Beyond the Mint Gates... China

Below Barker students with their host brothers and sisters in Sugao, Tokyo

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n a first for Barker's students studying Mandarin, 19 students enjoyed the unique opportunity to spend two weeks touring China during the September holidays. Accompanied by Mrs Christine McDonald, Mr Ken Wong and Mr Stephen Gersbach, the tour was an enormous success. The tour group visited some of the iconic sites in Beijing such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Summer Palace. Venturing further afield, the itinerary included stops to enjoy the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian. The students used their Chinese language skills to full effect when shopping and sampling many examples of authentic food. There were also many opportunities to speak Chinese – whether while watching traditional shows or cruising down some of China’s most famous waterways. Special thanks must go to Mrs McDonald for establishing and leading Barker’s inaugural Chinese language tour.

Above Barker students at the Shaolin Temple in China

Japan

verseas tours provide Barker's students with the opportunity to gain a rich insight into the life and culture of a country. The tour to Japan in the September holidays was no different for the 23 Barker students who spent two weeks touring the country, accompanied by Mrs Jessica McKinlay, Mr Lucas Gasparinatos and Mr Andrew Mallam. The students enjoyed an invaluable opportunity to practise their Japanese language skills during a five night homestay with Barker’s sister school in Sugao, Tokyo. During this time Barker students attended school with their Japanese hosts. The tour group then re-formed and visited a range of significant sites. These included the Imperial Gardens, the Tsukiji Fish Markets and exclusive access to the facilities at Tokyo Google. The students learnt much about Japanese history from their time in Kyoto and Nara, two of the country’s former capital cities. A poignant moment was the visit to Hiroshima and the ‘Peace Park’ that memorializes the dropping of the atomic bombs in 1945. The tour also visited Miyajima Island and the Pokemon Centre which afforded students the opportunity for some shopping. Special thanks must go to Mrs McKinlay for her tireless efforts in leading the tour and providing such an unforgettable experience for the students.

LANGUAGES

by Matthew Ross, Head of Languages

Latin Camp

Below Jonathan and Declan guarding the ‘Gate of Death’ through which unsuccessful gladiators were dragged

n 9-11 September a pair of intrepid Barker students travelled to Elanora Heights for the annual inter-school Year 8 Classics camp. Each year students studying Latin and Greek gather at the site for a weekend of ancient languages, mythology and Roman history. Jonathan Yim and Declan Zammit represented the School with distinction. They were both excellent ambassadors for the School, participating in a range of classically themed activities. These included a gruesome reenactment of a gladiatorial contest, Latin games of chance, an ancient weapons' display and a bushwalk through the Underworld to visit the kingdom of Hades. The two Barker students teamed up to produce a particularly compelling performance, as Hermes and Athena, in the retelling of the story of Theseus slaying Medusa. Their contribution to the Saturday evening gala show was outstanding. The campers’ dramatic performance of various mythological tales encompassed the themes of love, jealously, heroism and humanity that characterize the study of ancient languages such as Latin and Greek.

French and Japanese

Above Barker parents learning French

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n Term 3, the Languages Department offered courses in both French and Japanese for Barker parents. Over 80 parents enrolled in the program which ran for nine weeks. The parents demonstrated great enthusiasm and commitment. Many of these ‘students’ were learning a new language for the first time and should be congratulated on their achievement. Not only did our parents experience an engaging curriculum and some outstanding teaching, but there was a great sense of esprit de corps amongst the group – possibly aided by good coffee and a tasty supper during chilly winter evenings! We hope that the classes have provided an enriching learning opportunity – not only for parents but, vicariously, for their children as well. In this vein, this continuing education program deliberately sought to exemplify the commitment to lifelong learning, linguistic understanding and the intercultural engagement that inspires global hope.

TIMOR-LESTE CAMP

Above Barker students enjoy dancing with the children of Hera near Dili

Tutoring, Teamwork and

Above Barker students teach English in a community in the suburbs of Dili

On 18 September, a small group (11 students, 2 teachers) travelled to Timor-Leste, the very first time a group of Barker students have visited this country.

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n partnership with Rotary and local Timorese people, the aims were to learn more about Timor-Leste, tutor students in English in a local community near Dili and participate in a leadership course. After a wonderful welcome at the airport, we hit the ground running. Over several days we explored local markets (what was that fruit?!) and Christo Rei, a large statue positioned on a hill overlooking Dili’s coast. The heat and the steps (581 but who’s counting) were extreme, but the view was worth it. We also visited the Santa Cruz Cemetery, site of the 1991 Massacre, a Portuguese gaol, a fort, an Ossuary (a small building that houses the bones of people killed during the occupation), the Dare War memorial (with a surprise appearance by Michael Stone - Mr Lloyd was totally fanboying), an Indonesian Prison, the Museum of Resistance, the Australian Embassy, lunch at a seaside market, plus another visit to a local community (a plume of dust rose as the whole village learnt a dance courtesy of the Barker Dance Troupe-Dili Chapter). A memorable stop for our students was at Hera. The community met us at a large grass and timber hut. Built by a local man, it housed the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) volunteers’ English classes. RYLA graduates give their time to teach English, with their students graduating after three months. A sustainable model, this is self-help at its best. After anthems, (the Timorese singing is next level), we conducted English language exercises, before songs and

dancing concluded the day. Who knew our cultural exchange would involve Tina Turner’s Nutbush City Limits?! Three days were spent in the picturesque mountains at Railaco with Barker students participating in a RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Encouragement). The time here challenged many of us. The sessions were quite long, and much was in Tetum. For many of the group, it was their first experience with squat toilets. After an intense couple of days, there was a final evening concert. Our rousing rendition of “Waltzing Matilda” followed by “On the Fields of Barker College” was received very well … phew! Finishing at 12.15am most of the Barker crew crashed, but five of us joined the circle at the bonfire. Ceremonially lit, we chanted “Viva” after "Timor-Leste" was called out, a number of times. That feeling of love for Timor and its people was felt again on our final day when we went back to Hera. We were returning to old friends. There were speeches, songs, dances and English lessons. They had so little but gave us so much. The School aims to “Inspire Global Hope” and the trip achieved this, not only with the Timorese but also with the Barker students. The people we met moved us; changed us even. It is something we are unlikely to forget. Melanie Webster and Matthew Lloyd Accompanying Teachers

HISTORY

in Year 7 History

There is nothing better than hearing a classroom hum with challenging questions, meaningful collaboration and the joy of new discoveries.

Above Austin Caie’s engaging presentation on Ancient Greece. Right Production of a musical stave during Genius Hour.

the attempt to develop a question and the necessity to change his focus throughout the process as “challenging but in a good way”. Matt Downham considered the evolution of football and realised that there was conflicting information he had to sift through – a genuine challenge of History! Professor Dylan Wiliam has posed the question “How do we prepare students for a world we cannot imagine?” At least in part, we can equip them with tools to enable them to inquire, explore, reflect, sift, link evidence, collaborate and create. What a valuable hour in the classroom embracing the challenges and rewards of History! Kathryn Driver Acting Head of History

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his is what characterised the Year 7 History classrooms during Genius Hour throughout Terms 2 and 3. In line with Barker’s emphasis on student-centred and studentdriven learning, this initiative allowed students to pursue their areas of interest. They created and adapted paths of inquiry, honed their research skills, reflected on their work, utilised the input of teachers and peers, consulted experts in the field and produced creative projects that revealed the wealth of knowledge and skills they attained along the way. Sam Wise told me that “it was great to find out the background of real people from the Second World War and make a script to suit their personality.” He relished in the opportunity to “set my own time frame, work at my own pace and explore my own questions.” Harry Fitzgerald saw the benefits of gaining a comprehensive understanding of a niche subject. He was interested in making links between ancient Greek and Roman religion through a study of the gods. Sam Austin described his exploration of weaponry, in particular

DRAMA

Year 10 2015 in Political Theatre Group Performance

Barker Drama The Power of

Barker passionately supports Drama. Not only do we believe in the power of theatre to teach empathy, to share other people’s stories and to reimagine the classics but also to further develop life skills such as commitment, collaboration and time management.

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A 32

s the only subject in the HSC where students share some of the journey with others, the power and importance of a Group Performance goes above and beyond just another exam. One of the most important aspects of a successful Group Performance is the ability to manage as a creative group with ideas, personalities and expectations beyond the classroom. It can be tiring, it can be emotional but most of all it is exceptionally rewarding! In Barker Drama, we start developing the skills for Group Performance in Year 9 with a fantastic unit around staging Greek Theatre with a modern twist. The students learn the history, the stories and a range of conventions to use in staging their own interpretation of a piece of text – making it relevant and engaging to an audience of their peers. In Year 10 we build on these skills and encourage the

need for message and a purpose in their Group Performances through a unit on Political Theatre. We connect this with an emotional and eye-opening excursion to Treehouse Theatre where refugee students use playback theatre to tell their harrowing stories of survival and hope. Once we get to Year 11 Group Performance, we allow the students free rein and move our focus to creating theatre with a style and theatricality to it that will mirror their work in Year 12. We believe our continual OnStage successes and our great HSC results are a testament to this process – but more importantly for us is the pride and passion with which every Barker Drama student presents their Group Performance. Pia Midgley Head of Barker Drama

Below Barker Redbacks with our two Chinese teams

ROBOTICS

Robotics Shanghai

As one of the premier robotics teams in Sydney, the Barker Redbacks are frequently asked to assist other schools as they launch and train teams.

s a result, we’re proud to have been involved with Abbotsleigh, Ravenswood and Pymble Ladies College as they join the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). Globally, we are also thrilled to have been invited to Shanghai to train two developing Chinese teams to compete in the China Robotics Competition (CRC). Eight of our skilled students, along with our robotics mentors, travelled to Shanghai and spent four days assisting two new FRC teams to build and program their very first robots. Shortly after, our new friends in teams 9013 and 9047 competed for the first time in CRC with Redbacks mentors

assisting with drive coaching and strategy. You can imagine our excitement when team 9013 was ranked 4th at the start of the second day of qualifications! At the end of the competition, 9013 received the ‘Quality’ award – a reflection of the calibre of our students and the assistance they continue to freely give both locally and globally. The Barker Redbacks are now busily preparing for the 2017 competition season which begins on 7 January. Lael Grant Robotics Co-ordinator

MS Robotics Middle School robotics has continued to grow in leaps and bounds.

Lael Grant Robotics Co-ordinator

Right above Redbacks students assisted with practical skills. Right Middle School building their custom chassis robot

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

ur students have begun building their very first robots to compete in the FTC. This year’s game, ‘Velocity Vortex’, challenges students to pick up plastic balls and score them in goals at either corner of the field, or shoot them from their robot into the ‘vortex’ a metre off the ground. Three of our teams have opted to build their robots from custom parts they design and fabricate using aluminium stock and the CNC router, with other teams using kit parts to complete their designs. We are excited to see them compete with their creative and original designs in the near future.

BOARDING

Clockwise from left The raffle was very popular with over 1000 tickets sold; Trish O'Brien selling Hunter Valley Olive Oil; Abundant produce from around the State

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Boarders

he stall was loaded with fresh produce from the North Coast which was snapped up in the first few hours. Fresh native flowers from Bathurst were another hit. As always we had a generous donation of Hunter Valley olive oils and vinegars in beautiful gift packs which were also popular. Homemade jams, preserves, sweets, biscuits and cakes filled the stall. The raffle was well supported this year with generous prizes donated by boarding parents. Wine was popular and plentiful along with a coffee machine, restaurant vouchers and sunglasses. The students and Boarding staff really got behind the day, selling over 1,000 raffle tickets!

It was a beautiful spring day for the fair this year and as always the Boarder parents supported Barker in droves. Home grown and handcrafted items were in abundant supply from all over the state. My thanks to all the parents/guardians who made or donated items for our stall, volunteered their time to sell on the day and to Jon Rheinberger for rallying the troops to support this fundraising. Best wishes to the incoming Boarder Parents and Guardians Committee: Mr Tim Jeffery (Coffs Harbour), Mrs Karin Hensley (Central Coast), Mrs Ruth Crampton (Bathurst) and Mrs Catherine Taragel (Orange). Anne Williams Outgoing BCMA Representative on behalf of the Boarder Parents and Guardians Committee

OED

Clockwise from top left Darkinjung students and some of their Year 11 buddies; Darkinjung students competing in the Mini Olympics; Drawing with our buddies; Practising throwing technique for the Mini Olympics

Year 11

Nonie Taylor Science Teacher

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

As a staff member, I had heard exciting things about Darkinjung and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to spend a week in beautiful Yarramalong.

he week well and truly lived up to my expectations. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of our Year 11 students in sharing themselves with the Darkinjung students. It was a joy to spend time with the staff there and experience the ins and outs of their days, and watch how they managed the constraints of space and varying abilities. The highlight for me was watching the Darkinjung students engage with their Year 11 buddies, reading to them, drawing with them, using robots with them, and playing games with them. It is my hope that each of the Year 11 students who attended left feeling that they had made some new friends in their Darkinjung buddies, and that they felt pride in the time they had given and the hard work they put into maintaining the grounds of the School.

SPORT THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Barker Girls’ Football –

Following an incredibly successful Summer season of sport, Barker’s Girls have continued their victorious reign during the Winter season, taking out the ISA Championship title and Minor Premiers title for the 8th successive Football season.

Clockwise from top left Pippa Carey & Genevieve Love; 2016 Girls' Football Captain Stefanie Aisbett with David O'Keefe (Coach) following the ISA final; Kelly Van Homrigh demonstrating how she secured the 'Golden Gloves' award at the annual BCFC Awards night; Genevieve Tucker making an impression in the ISA final

he Girls’ 1st Football remained undefeated during the 10 game season, scoring 41 goals and allowing only 8 goals to be scored against them. In an exciting Grand Final played against Oakhill College, the Barker team asserted their season-long dominance to win 6-2. The team have had a truly outstanding season, with five girls – Stefanie Aisbett, Lucy Lake, Genevieve Tucker, Sammy de Montemas and Sophie de Montemas representing ISA. Genevieve Tucker and Sophie de Montemas were then selected to represent CIS, with the team winning the All Schools Championships for the first time since the inception of the tournament in 1993.

Alison Cox Director of Girls' Sport/CCC Girls Football

SPORT

Boys’ Basketball

Top Mr Steve Carfino and Sydney Schools Shootout organiser Mr Phil Webster, congratulate Joey Hoover (Year 9) on winning the SSS competition

he inaugural high performance program was held over six weeks with approximately 25 boys participating in skill development. This new initiative was supported by our new 2nds coach ‘Mr Magic’ Steve Carfino as well as returning 1st coaches Mr Matthew Arnot and Mr Jared Scoines. A Term 3/4 school holiday camp on October 4, 5 and 6 on the Fedeles Court assisted player development. As a part of this camp, we had a number of junior players train and take part with the more senior boys in a 3 vs 3 competition at the Junior School. The 1sts and 2nds, as part of the pre-season preparation, played trial games against St Joseph’s and Kings. The seconds enjoyed victories over both Kings and Joey’s.

Top The Barker 1st V team photographed after their final pre-season game

‘Sydney Schools Shootout’ was held on 7 and 8 October. The Barker 1st and 2nd teams competed in the holiday tournament. The 2nds are to be congratulated for making it to the semi-finals. The Inaugural season launch was on 13 October and was open to all basketball players. The evening included an exhibition match, 1st V team announcement and season information. Michael Kennedy CCC Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

half to go on to win the Gold defeating Victoria 88 points to 71. Following on from this excellent result, Kimberley was voted NSW Most Valuable Player for the tournament and selected in the All Australian Schools Team to tour the US at the end of the year. This is the second year in a row Barker has had a student selected in this team and an outstanding achievement for Kimberley. We wish her well as she takes this next step in her basketball journey. Nicole Bailey CCC Girls’ Basketball

Above Kimberley Hodge

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

imberley Hodge (Yr 12) represented NSW All Schools Open Girls Basketball team in the School Sports Australia Championships in Terrigal, NSW. In what turned out to be a challenging week for all players, the NSW team played eight games in five days going on to qualify undefeated for the gold medal playoff against the Victorian team. A starting player in every game, Kimberley helped her NSW team take the early lead and maintained her dominance at both ends of the court, hitting 18 points in the final. While Victoria started strongly, NSW played an aggressive style of play in the second quarter leading by 12 points. All team members maintained this high standard throughout the second

SPORT

Above Flynn Gorsuch launching the Javelin at CAS

Above Senior Girls 4 x 100m winning team (Abbey Hodge, Liv D'Lima, Jade Beeston, Hannah Thornton)

2016

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

he Barker Track and Field season officially began on 15 August with the running of the Barker Mile and Barker Bolt. These events were very well supported with Natasha Salisbury taking out the girls race and Ben Graham winning the boys race in the Barker Mile. It was then on to the Barker Bolt which saw the fastest runners from each year level up against each other in a handicap 100m race. This year the event was won narrowly by Lucas Vass. The season then progressed with various invitational carnivals and the athletics camp, each helping to guide and prepare the students for the ISA and CAS carnivals. It was then time for the ISA carnival and the girls had high hopes of winning their ninth ISA Senior girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title in a row. Some good results came early from Rachel Fear who broke the 16yrs Shot Put ISA record and Lily Grills who won the intermediate 3000m. There were some strong sprinting results from Emily Yeaman and Jade Beeston in the open 200m and Katrina Lyon in the Hurdles. The intermediate girls (15yrs-16yrs) despite only having a limited number of 15yr olds proved they were up for the challenge with Lucy Lake winning the Javelin and Emma Gliddon winning the 16yrs 800m. The day concluded with the Senior Girls team winning the 4 x 100m relay. It was then on to the final point score, where the Barker College Senior Girls team were announced as winners for the 9th consecutive year! This was another fantastic result and one that the girls should be proud of. The intermediate team finished a very close 3rd place. The boys team was keen to continue this success leading into the CAS championships and after winning the last four championships, they knew it was going to be a tough challenge, but they were certainly prepared to give it their best.

The competition started with some great results for Barker especially in the Open Long Jump with Joshua Baddock and Quentin Cheng's combined abilities winning this event and Ben Nogajski winning the 15yrs Shot Put. The High Jump events were also outstanding for Barker with Lachlan Bofinger breaking the 15yrs CAS record with a jump of 1.93m and being well supported by Ben Nogajski. Joshua Baddock, not to be outdone, jumped 2.03m to win the Open event. The track events then began with many of the boys running personal best performances in windy conditions. Kyle Galloway started in fantastic fashion winning the 15yrs 100m in a time of 11.39sec, breaking the CAS record. He also won the 200m event and was well supported by Ben Kinasch who won the 16yrs 200m division race. Will Lloyd then took to the track winning the 17yrs 200m. He then went on to break the 17yrs 110m hurdles CAS record and ran the fastest 100m time of the night in 10.88sec. The throwing events gained some valuable points especially in the Discus where Barker won the majority of age groups. Stuart Downie won the 13yrs Javelin and William Irish won the 13yr event. Heading into the relays Barker was not going to be able to catch Trinity this year, but in the final event the Open 4 x 100m team of Jack Everitt, Dom Vinson, Ben Basten and Josh Robins crossed the finishing line in 1st place breaking the CAS record and completing what was another fantastic carnival. Barker College finished in 2nd position on the night and although disappointed to not get the 5 peat, the team knows that with some further commitment at training and improvement in performance, we will be ready for next year! Lee Batchler CCC Athletics

SPORT

Top Pat Cummins, spent some time with Barker future cricket stars from the Junior School

Summer Sport

he performances across the age groups have been very positive and will ensure a superb Basketball season ahead. Our 1st XI Cricketers steamrolled all before them during their trials recording victories over six GPS schools. The CAS Round 1 clash saw a close loss to Trinity, the highlight being a brilliant innings of 97 from Simon Marais. The 2nd XI, 10A & 9A teams played superbly to record solid victories. After an early season visit from Australian Test Cricketer, Patrick Cummins, our cricketers are ready for a super season. All other Summer sporting teams are well drilled and prepared for a blockbuster season. Our Baseball superstar Josh Robins has returned from duty with the Australian Schoolboys tour of the USA. Josh's performances as pitcher were noticed by a number of interested parties in the USA. The team performed with distinction with 11 of 18 games throughout the tour and Josh's pitching was of the highest quality! Steven Thomlinson Director of Boys' Sport

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Summer sport has commenced with a number of enthralling results across a number of sports. Our 1st Basketball team recorded a number of determined performances throughout the holidays culminating in a brilliant showing against Kings at the commencement of Term.

Josh Robins (Yr 12)

CADETS

Alpha Company

lpha Company arrived in Glenworth Valley with fresh rank and fresh cadets. The cadets, under the leadership of CUO Sophia Davis, were pushed to their limits as individuals and as a company. They battled through the Alpha Company Initiation Training (ACIT). This training consisted of various tests including the construction of survival shelters, medical scenarios, engaging in battles with the Pioneer wing in a gruelling Tactical Exercise, completing a hike, as well as navigating from the adjacent valley into Ironbark Creek. Physical tests included the annual Alpha Mud Run consisting of muddy rivers, swamps and forest trails coupled with a 9km pack march in 90 minutes. Overall every single member worked extremely well and managed to pass all components as a team, seamlessly adopting the comradery and high work ethic associated with Alpha Company. Finally, praise must be given to the rank and staff who worked amazingly well together to organise a fantastic camp which was enjoyable for the cadets and the cause of envy for every other company.

Above Alpha Company ready to begin an exercise

Warrant Officer 2nd Class Lachlan Hinds

New Rank

aptain Gordon (Operations Officer) spoke to Sergeant Katrina Lyon and Lance Corporal Emily Yeaman about their first experience as Junior Rank in the field working with Echo (a recruit) company.

Captain Gordon: What have you enjoyed about working as Junior Rank in Echo Company on this bivouac?

SGT Lyon: It’s been really exciting getting to know all their names and help them work through their various activities. LCPL Yeaman: It’s been fun watching them get stuck into the activities and watch these run fairly smoothly. I’ve also enjoyed getting to know the cadets in a camping environment. Captain Gordon: What have you found challenging as a junior leader on this camp?

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

SGT Lyon: Getting the respect from the cadets as I am not that much older than them. Getting them to sit down! The first day was a challenge but now at the end of the camp it is way better.

LCPL Yeaman: Controlling them, getting them to keep their shirts tucked in! Carrying out the basic skills they have learned. Captain Gordon: What have you found rewarding? SGT Lyon: Watching them complete their exercises, seeing them really getting into it, really trying hard and doing well. LCPL Yeaman: Seeing the cadets apply the things they have learned in their activities and putting them to good use is really rewarding to see.

Above Emily Yeaman and Katrina Lyon at the end of camp

Captain Gordon: How do you think you have developed as a junior leader on this field phase? SGT Lyon: I have developed my skills learning how to use a ‘big girl voice’ to give commands, getting myself really organised nice and early. LCPL Yeaman: I have developed my personal confidence in being a leader. Learning how to control excitable Year 8 boys was a challenge that I have risen to. Knowing what they need to do and getting them to do it on time successfully has been a big achievement. Phil Gordon OPSO BCCU

BCMA

2016

What a glorious day September 17 turned out to be for the 2016 Barker Spring Fair.

Internal conveners, put in numerous hours to make the Fair a success. I would also like to thank all the volunteers, the wonderful Maintenance Department, sports clubs, staff and all of those that attended to help make this day so great. I would also like to thank all companies and individuals who contributed prizes, food, drinks and funding. The funds from this years Spring Fair have gone towards the upgrade of the seating in Leslie Hall. Two days after the Spring Fair, Yvonne Goldman and I took up our role as co-presidents of the BCMA. I would like to thank Jenelle Montgomerie, the outgoing President for her wonderful contribution over the last two years, along with the other retiring committee members who have contributed so much to the Barker community. Being a member of the BCMA is a great way to meet people from different areas of the school and you really get to see the spirit of the BCMA: fostering friendships and developing the community of Barker College. We have an exciting year ahead with our new committee on board and ready to take on the roles of the BCMA that include care and support roles, tuckshop conveners and function conveners for major events such as Melbourne Cup Lunch, Barker Red and our Trivia night. We would like to wish all the Year 12s who are finishing their time at Barker all the very best wishes in their journey beyond the Mint gates. Good Luck! Ali Finnegan & Yvonne Goldman Co-Presidents

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

fter many months of planning and what had to be the best weather we have had at a Spring Fair, Taylor, Phipps and Rosewood Fields were transformed into a magnificent fair attended by thousands of visitors. Our wonderful bands, dance troupes, choirs, as well as the teams from fencing, robotics and taekwondo entertained all of our visitors. No one went hungry at the Spring Fair as some magnificent food was on offer including the OBA Spit Roast, Asian cuisine, Café JJ, and The Old Fashioned Milk Bar. For the first time the High Tea was held in the Sue Field Room overlooking Rosewood crowded with rides and over 45 external stallholders. We also had over 40 internal stallholders offering an exciting array of diverse products and activities. The more adventurous amongst us were entertained with rides, games, basketball and football competitions, crazy hair, plaster casts and gumboot throwing just to name a few. The Handmade Stall had worked hard over 12 months to deliver a wonderful selection of beautiful handmade items made by current and past Barker mothers and friends. The Gourmet food stall offered a delicious selection of condiments to tempt the connoisseurs amongst us as did the College Cakes who sold out of their delicious cakes yet again. The Fair takes months of planning and we would like to thank Cathi Brown, the Spring Fair convener, for her wonderful leadership in putting on such a successful Fair. As you know Cathi couldn’t do this without the assistance of an amazing Spring Fair committee who, along with all the

ARCHIVES

Clockwise from top left Barker College 1st XV Rugby team on the platform at Brisbane Train Station waiting to return home after their tour of Brisbane, 1937; The 1976 tour to Indonesia was the first to involve both Barker boys and girls; Music students performing and sight-seeing in Salzburg as part of the tour to Europe and the UK, 2008

Touring beyond Every holidays, Barker students of all ages journey beyond the Mint Gates to places in Australia and abroad. Whether for community service, Sport, Music, Cadets, Robotics or educational opportunities outside the classroom, tours at Barker are an old tradition.

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

T 42

he earliest record of Barker students touring abroad dates from 1911. Brothers Philip and John Charley travelled to England as part of the Australian Cadet Contingent, representing the Barker College Cadet Unit at the coronation of King George V. Barker was very proud of its two Cadets, reprinting their letters in the 1911 edition of The Barker College Magazine. Sports tours have a long history. In 1920, the 1st XV Rugby team travelled to Jervis Bay to play against the Royal Australian Naval College. Despite only being allowed to take 17 players, Barker defeated the seamen-in-training 22 to 19. Since this time, Barker students, both boys and girls, from all grades have travelled to New Zealand, South Africa, Hawaii and South America to compete against other schools in all manner of team sports. More recently, sports tours have also included a chance to work with these local communities on a variety of service projects. Tours are also an important part of Barker’s Music program. From singing in European cathedrals to undertaking

workshops with the Beijing Opera School and playing at the Centenary of Gallipoli commemorations, Music has taken Barker students around the globe. Not limited to Secondary School students, Junior School Music students have journeyed to Perth, the Southern Highlands and Canberra. With the arrival of girls in 1975, tours also became coeducational. The first of these was a 15 day tour of Indonesia in 1976. The tour was described by the participating students as a “huge success” and an “unforgettable experience.” Since this time, boys and girls have journeyed alongside each other, whether it be Geography students experiencing Cambodia, artists taking in the delights of New York, or French students being immersed in New Caledonia. Wherever Barker students journey to, it is evident that tours only add to the richness of a Barker education. Morwenna Dixon Manager of Archives

FOUNDATION

Barker The Barker Foundation welcomes any opportunity to sponsor an initiative which advances education at Barker College.

Then on 4 August this year, at Yarramalong, there was an official presentation ceremony of the bus from Variety NSW. Representatives from the Barker Foundation, the Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council, the Barker Class of 2015 and Variety NSW attended. There was much celebration and squeals of delight from the children who were thrilled at the arrival of the new bus. Murray Thorpe from the Class of 2015 shared some of the photos and anecdotes from the morning with his peers on their Facebook page, which were warmly received. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Darkinjung Barker, please click on the Donations icon on the home page of the Barker College website, www.barker.nsw.edu.au and follow the links to Indigenous Education. David Charles Chairman - Barker Foundation

THE BARKER | SUMMER 2016

arkinjung Barker is, of course, an important indigenous education initiative for Barker. It has received generous support from the Barker community, including most recently from the Class of 2015 as well as the Foundation. In late 2015, the School applied for financial support from Variety NSW – the Children’s Charity, in order to purchase a 14-seater bus. This was to help with the transport of our students to and from School at the Darkinjung campus, Yarramalong, and for their fortnightly visits to the Hornsby campus. The students’ daily commute is an integral part of their School routine. The bus is driven by an Elder and throughout their journey there is conversation about Indigenous culture. In April 2016, the School’s application for the bus was approved by Variety NSW, subject to a financial contribution of 50% of the cost from Barker. The Class of 2015, the Foundation, the Darkinjung Aboriginal Land Council, together with others in the School community were able to provide the funds to enable the purchase of the bus to proceed.

THE OLD BARKER THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Melissa Mitchell (Class of 2005) talks about her time at Barker when she was selected to represent Australia at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

As I was away with the Australian Swimming team for several periods during High School, the tutor groups provided more individualised attention and they helped me manage my workload and develop time management skills so I could study abroad and keep up with my classes. The School also provided a World Class gym facility that assisted with my training during lunch times in the lead up to Olympic Selection. One amazing opportunity I had at Barker was the chance to participate in the CAS Swimming Championships. This provided a higher level sporting competition that refined my skills and provided an environment of overwhelming team support (swimming is so often an individual focus at the elite level). I was given permission to train in the US for high altitude and my teachers arranged ways for me to stay in contact and 'study online' before this was common practice, which allowed my education to continue no matter where I was based. The constant communication with my tutor, Eliot Sanger (86), was invaluable and encouraged a commitment to both sport and study that stayed with me through university and even employment. The commitment of the School towards my academic and sporting endeavours was second to none and enabled me to complete two degrees whilst representing my country. Going to the Olympics whilst in year 11 was a phenomenal experience and I felt the entire School participated in my Olympic journey. Whilst I was in Athens I was sent a book with well wishes from students from Kindergarten through to Year 12. I still have this book and it was a wonderful sentiment of the support I had back home. Barker protected me from being unprepared in the wider world outside sport and allowed me a grounded school life even while I lived an atmospheric existence travelling the world under intense pressure to perform at the highest level. The normality of sharing friends experiences and achievements at school helped alleviate this stress. Melissa Mitchell (05)

THE OLD BARKER

Summer 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Issue 227

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

THE OLD BARKER

Inside this 47 OBA President 48 Community Events 52 OBA Groups 57 Personal Notes 59 Obituaries

Old Barker Association Contacts email: oba@barker.nsw.edu.au (Please note that the number in brackets after a name is the graduating year) President Tony Gamson (78) 0458 564 556 Honorary Vice-President Peter Gregory (03) 0400 419 253 Honorary Treasurer Andrew Hassall (86) 0412 610 434 Honorary Secretary Matthew Ross-Smith (10) 0408 284 702 Honorary Assistant Secretary David Brookes (79) 0400 906 052 General Committee Angus Abadee (07) Vanessa Bennett (91) Paul Goncharoff (88) Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78) Catherine Lancaster (82) David Slinn (80) David Trayner (84) Henry Wells (10)

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Nominees to School Council Pennie Cruickshank (79) Michael Brodie (79) Tony Gamson (78)

OBA Annual Patron Benjamin Anson (85) Sandy Hollway (64) Pip Hurley (Webber 85) Keith Thornton (64)

57 Personal Notes

School Contacts Director of Alumni Relations Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 (Sch) mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Alumni Reunion Coordinator Karina Drummond (02) 9847 8283 (Sch) karina_drummond@barker.nsw.edu.au Manager of Archives Morwenna Dixon (02) 9847 8290 (Sch) morwenna_dixon@barker.nsw.edu.au Interstate and International Barker Contacts Brisbane Andrew Wilkie (01) 0412 779 383 (m) andrew.wilkie@morgans.com.au Canberra Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281(m) mccoll@grapevine.net.au Melbourne Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407 (m) murray@capricorngroup.net.au Northern Rivers Jim Poulos (61) (02) 6686 7711 (h) pamio@bigpond.net.au

Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au Canada, Ontario George Darling (70) george.darling@snclavalin.com Hong Kong Brayden Winkler (07) brayden.winkler@gmail.com Japan Carl Bastian (93) bastianinternational@msn.com Middle East Erik Huyer (72) +6 39175302744 (m) erikhuyer@gmail.com New Zealand Scott Brown (91) (64) 027 230 4561 (w) scott@hipgroup.co.nz Oceania (Fiji) Neil Underhill (75) (679) 336 3968 (w) neilunderhill@connect.com.fj Papua New Guinea Johnson Kalo (83) (675) 305 6703 (w) jkalo@bsp.com.pg Singapore Carly Switzer (94) carlyswitzer@yahoo.com.au

Perth Tom Hargreaves (69) 0437 906 588 (m) tom.hargreaves@inpex.com.au

UK, London Annette French (Slattery 88) (44) 1732 382 281 (h) annette.e.french@sky.com

Sunshine Coast Phil Benjamin (61) pandj.benjamin@bigpond.com

USA, East Coast Andrew Renton (85) (910) 612 5671 arenton1@mac.com

Over 70s Contact Peter Ward (59) over70s@barker.nsw.edu.au

Contributions Welcome Please send contributions to Mandy Loomes, Director of Alumni Relations, 91 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077 or mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au For further information please contact Mandy on 9847 8229. Personal notes are published in good faith, as a service to the Barker Community.

USA, West Coast Digby Cook (56) 623 523 4321 digbyhcook@gmail.com

FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tony Gamson (78), OBA President

the importance of the traditions that have contributed to its long success. Like any institution, Barker has a rich history and this forms the basis of everything that is here today. The men and women who have passed through its gates since 1890 have all played a part in developing the culture of the school and we will continue to recognise this into the future. In everything we do, the values of Honor non Honores play a central role and this will not be altered by this next step in the evolution of Barker College. I was a student at Barker when coeducation was introduced in 1975 and I remember those first few days when the novelty was at its height. A great change was upon us and we all needed to adapt to the new reality. But after those initial hesitant steps, it was remarkable how quickly the presence of girls at Barker became the norm and the School has never looked back. We are right to be proud of everything that has been achieved over the last forty years and we now look to build upon that legacy. Tony Gamson (78) OBA President THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

he recent announcement that Barker will become a fully coeducational School by 2022 will be of great interest to most of you. For some, there will be a sense inevitability about the decision and you will regard it as a natural continuation of the process that began in 1975. For others, the change will raise questions that you would like answered. The School is in a very strong position now with healthy enrolments and waiting lists at key entry points, notably in Years 7 and 10. So, why make this change if the current model is working so well and proving so popular? The question regarding the efficacy of single sex education compared to coeducation is a vexed one with enthusiastic advocates in both camps. Independent research indicates academic outcomes for students are more likely to be influenced by parental encouragement than by the school gender structure. What is clear is that the world is changing, and changing rapidly. Society and the workplace in which todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students will operate are unrecognisable from that of a generation ago. Roles are no longer defined along the same gender lines as before and the technological revolution is creating any number of challenges and opportunities. In that context, it is unrealistic to expect any institution preparing students for that world to remain unchanged. Can a system of education designed in Victorian times really be appropriate for the 21st Century? This is not to suggest for a moment the abandonment of the qualities that have made Barker such a wonderful School. One of the core responsibilities of the Old Barker Association is to uphold the history of the School and to acknowledge

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events Class of 1991 A great night was had by all for the 25 Year School Reunion of the Class of 1991. Held in Surry Hills at the Aurora Hotel about 60 old boys and girls reminisced, laughed about the past and caught up on the present. Some travelled from interstate as well as from Singapore to be at the event. Time absolutely flew and before we all knew it, it was well past midnight. Special thanks to the School for helping organise the event and to those who came - it was fantastic to catch up. See you at the next one. James Cooper

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Class of 2001

The 15 year reunion for the Class of 2001 was held on Saturday 20 August 2016 with around 60 people attending. I for one had a fabulous night (and I think everyone else seemed to as well)! The highlight would have to have been Andrew Kelly’s repeat rendition of Tom Jones' “Sex Bomb” song. He performed it quite a few times at school; the last time I am aware of was at our Valedictory dinner. Michelle Beattie

COMMUNITY EVENTS

OBA Annual The 12th Old Barker Association Annual Golf Day was held at the Pennant Hills Golf Club on Tuesday 13 September. days scratch winners. While the day was without a hole-in-one, Ryan Crawford (96) and Deb Meynink did their best to walk away with the Longest Drive. All golfers are looking forward to next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event, and hope to welcome new golfers to the competition. A special thanks to Mandy Loomes and the Alumni Relations team for organising a fantastic event that was thoroughly enjoyed by all! Angus Abadee (07) OBA Committee

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

The Golf Day was an opportunity to bring together alumni and friends of the Barker community ranging from the Class of 1947 through to the Class of 2014. It was wonderful to not only see former students of Barker but also parents of former students who continue to be valued members of the Barker community. The Golf Day involved 54 golfers teeing off for a shotgun Ambrose format, with 35 golfers coming together to have dinner where they shared stories, commiserations, and inevitably stories of exaggeration and missed putts. The team of Scott Gresham (87), Antony Gowthorp (87), Max Billingham (87) and Mark Rimmer were crowned champions after blowing away the field with their poise and composure under pressure. The team of Tony Gresham (58), Denver Webb (59), Jack Little (59) and Geoff Little (58) were the

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events

Clockwise from top left Jude Handel, Richard Hassall, Dave Haines, Gillian Canning (Button), Margo Phelan (Murray); Cath Rosser (Swinney), Steve Baker, Andrea Howard (Smith), Martin Christensen, Anne Ranieri (Mckenzie), Elizabeth Noble (McLean), Fiona Galbraith, Colin de Kantzow, Guy Schofield; Cath Rosser (Swinney), Steve Baker; Melissa Keeler, Catherine Forsyth (Hughes), Beky Armstrong (Hartnett), Jenni-Lee Williams (Lennon) and Jo Camp (Fisher).

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Barker College Class of 1981

It was a case of back to our old stomping ground and testing our memories! We have decided that as we get a little older, we wanted to get together more frequently so had a 35 year reunion at the BlueGum. With the musical running over at Barker, we started the evening on the Verandah with a lot of current families catching a quick meal before the show. With a really good turn-out of around 60 from the Class of 1981, the level of conversation was deafening. Although it was a little difficult at first to figure out who was who, once the conversations started the room was full of ‘remember when we did…..’ and fond reminiscences of our years at Barker. Some of us were catching up with other parents whose kids

had just finished at Barker which was also lovely. We also remembered those who were no longer with us. It was a great night where friendships were renewed and many a story was shared and Facebook was very busy the next day. See you all in 5 years! Jenni-Lee Williams (Lennon) Reunion Organiser

On Saturday 17 September the graduating Class of 2011 attended their five-year school reunion. The event was held at The Terrace in North Sydney and close to 150 people attended. The night kicked off with canapes, drinks, and background music played by our DJ. The venue worked really well for the number of people we had and Sophie, the event manager at the Terrace, couldn’t help us enough. It was a great night filled with mingling, laughter and nostalgia for the old school days. It was interesting to see what everyone had been up to over the past five years (which have flown by) and where they were heading in the future. Many of us have finished our studies and are working full time, others are still studying and working part-time whereas those who couldn’t attend have moved overseas

or are travelling. Some people have pursued their dreams of becoming nurses, marketers and teachers, whilst others were still on the long (and beaten) path to becoming lawyers and doctors. A number have picked up a trade and have now qualified in their field. The night ended with everyone on the dance floor singing and dancing to classic 90s hits. It was a night filled with both nerves and excitement about how much people’s lives have changed and it’s safe to say everyone is very much looking forward to the next one! It was such a joy to catch up with the year group who became tight-knit in our last year of School. Although people’s lives have changed since School with many different paths taken, everyone was the same as they had always been which is something to cherish. As they say, you can take the kids out of Barker, but you can’t take Barker out of the kids.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Barker College Class of 2011

Elizabeth Gulliver

Over 70s Annual The Annual General Meeting was held in Carter House at 11.00am on 30 July 2016 in the presence of 22 members including the retiring Executive.

David Maynard (53) Over 70s Committee

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

After the meeting lunch was served in Boyce Hall. Our new President, Denver Webb (59), welcomed our special guests: Phillip Heath, Peter Berkley, Tony Gamson (78), Ian Campbell and our Guest Speaker, Rob Canning (97). Barker's Director of Boys' Sports, Steve Thomlinson, then introduced some members of several 1st teams and took the opportunity to proclaim the various successes of girls’ sport at Barker including an upcoming Sports tour to Singapore and Malaysia in July 2017. John Griffiths (48) then said Grace and lunch was served. John Grigg (59) introduced our Guest Speaker,

Rob Canning (97) who attended Barker from Year 4 in 1989 to 1997. He became Co-Captain of the 1st Basketball team and Vice-Captain of the 1st XV. He has fond memories of sport at Barker where he learned to try hard and train hard in spite of injuries. On leaving Barker, Rob completed an Arts degree in Communications at Charles Sturt University, majoring in Broadcast Journalism. He moved from Orange to Sydney and joined Channel 10 where he was the youngest person to anchor Sports Tonight. In 2012 he took up a role as a Senior Sports producer with the Channel 9 Network. After lunch, many of us then moved to the main oval to watch the 1st and 2nd XV matches against Cranbrook. Although the weather was perfect it was cold enough for us to appreciate the afternoon tea provided and to be thankful for another pleasant return to Barker.

OBA GROUPS

Groups

Above Division 6 Reserve Grade Champions

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Old Barker

Club

The Old Barker Football Club has had its most successful year ever, displaying the sort of growth not seen beyond Moore’s Law. Each year, the Northern Suburbs Football Association (NSFA) honours the club with the best clubwide win-loss ratio. In 2016 the Old Barker Football Club outperformed winning club Greenwich, but for lack of a youth side, this would have seen us earn the top gong. Living up to our credo Honor Non Honores, the tremendous on-field success was also matched by a spirit of fair play. The Men’s Premier League (PL) side picked up the fair play award which is awarded to the Men’s team with the least card offences (ie yellow or red cards). Undoubtedly the club’s star performers were the division 6 men’s squad. Division 6 Reserve grade went through the season undefeated. Both Division 6 First grade and Reserve grade were season premiers, securing promotion in 2017. The Division 5 men proved strong starters but unfortunately lost momentum in the back half of the 2016 season. A lot of hype surrounded pre-season transfers Chris ‘twiggy’ McClelland (05), Josh ‘crouch’ Sandford (05) and Jeremy ‘dagger’ Smith (05), but not even their spectacular nicknames were enough to inspire a second half turn around. Limp finishes aside, they managed to chalk up a mid-table finish. The Women’s All Age season was a really exciting one. Notching up six consecutive wins in the final six games, the women made a late season climb to finish in second

place, and retained their place in Division 2 for 2017 where they’ll be looking to go one better next year. An incredible achievement, with stand-out performances from Megan Chong (12), Bronte Black (11) and Claudia Werner (11), and strong leadership from coach, David O’Keefe. Men’s PL had a strong showing with wonderful goals from Will Capon (15) and brick-wall performances from goal keeper, Michael Schamps. PL finished in 5th place and are looking to break into the top four in 2017. Off the pitch, OBFC held a gala presentation dinner featuring a formal sit-down dinner at the Bavarian Bier Café. Plenty of awards, stories and laughs were shared over a quiet beer and meal in what was a very enjoyable evening for all. Special mention to Andrew Wiadrowski who was awarded the Craig Harris Shield, our highest club award - not bad for a Shore boy! We are looking forward to an exciting 2017 and encourage anyone interested in playing football whilst keeping their connection to the school alive to make contact with the club. We have six men’s teams of various standards and are expecting to expand to two women’s team in 2017. For more information, please visit our website www.oldbarkerFC.com

Matt Vickers (05) OBFC Committee

OBA GROUPS

Above Grand finalists

Barker Old Girls

Club

What a season! The Barker Old Girls Netball team, competing in the Hills District Netball Association Saturday winter competition, finished second on the ladder in their division before leading the charge towards the Grand Final against top of the table Beecroft in the first semi-final game. The semi-final was a thrilling match with the Barker Girls dismantling the Beecroft team 36-25 with the best game of the season. We met St Agathas in the Grand Final who we hadn’t beaten all season and who were an incredibly strong team. Unfortunately we couldn’t get the job done in the final, finishing runners up with a 15-27 loss. Unfortunately we just didn’t turn up on the day and our performance during the game reflected that. However, we will be back stronger next year! Congratulations to all the girls who played in this team this season: Laura Cheung (07), Lauren Kirkby (07), Bri Weston (08), Izzy Shawyer (09), Amelia Scott (09), Ali Eisen (10), Sophie Westley (10), Sonika Kalra (10), Bree Philipson (12), Grace Keegan (12), Teigan Barry (12) and

Beth Lloyd (honorary Barker Old Girl) for their fantastic effort and commitment. We are back playing in the Hills Night Comp on Tuesday nights, our last competition for the year. We have two teams playing in this competition and we look forward to another strong showing from the Barker Old Girls. Summer Night Competition starts at the end of January 2017. If you would like to register your interest to play, please contact us at barkeroldgirlsnetball@gmail.com. We welcome all players of all abilities and we work in assigning new members to a team either with their group of friends or close to their alumni year. Alternatively, we would love to have you get a team together with your friends! Hope to hear from you and see you out on the courts in 2017!

OBA

Lauren Kirkby (07) Co-President

Club Saturday. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to come along to training or compete for us, this includes past and present students. Please give Glen a call on 0410 597 235 for more details. Tim Willatt (07) OBA Athletics

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Much like Usain Bolt becoming the greatest Olympian of all time earlier this year, the OBAC is expecting the summer season 2016/2017 to be the greatest in NSW Athletics history and over the off-season we have tried to unlock the secrets of sprinting from the great man. Needless to say, we now have the answers. Thankfully the season has now started and we are putting into practice all we have learnt in competition. The season start is a great time to join the club! We train Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, with competition on

OBA GROUPS

Groups Barker Old Girls Barker Old Girls had a successful winter season in the North Shore Women's Hockey Association competition. Despite having multiple absences and injuries, not to mention a broken foot and broken shoulder, we managed to place 5th, missing out on the finals by one goal difference. We had some great new strikers join the team this year who scored some top class goals which were amazing to witness. Thank you to our coaches Robbert-Paul and Caroline Abendanon for training us and supporting us on the sideline every Sunday. Barker Old Girls Hockey have just started in the North Shore summer competition season which is being played at Ku-ring-gai High hockey field every Tuesday and Thursday night from 7.30pm-9.30pm. Although it is early in the season, BOGs have won all their games by no less than 7 goals each time so it is looking to be a promising season. The competition is social with women of all skill levels so come along and have a hit. If anyone is interested in joining Barker Old Girls Hockey Club for the current 2016 summer season or upcoming 2017 winter season, please email us at barkeroldgirlshockey@gmail.com and we will provide all the details needed. Otherwise, please check out our Facebook page for hockey updates!

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Barker Old Boys

Season 2016/17 has kicked off with a big win for the Barker Old Boys Cricket Club in Round 1 of the City & Suburban Jack Pace Memorial Competition. We were fortunate to post a healthy score of 4/201 (35 overs) against Old Cranbrookians at Dangar Oval, Rose Bay. Big scores at the top of the order from Sam Haeney (05) with 64 and Andrew Newton (05) with 56 were very impressive and were also well-supported by Tom Burnett (05) with 45 not out. BOBs managed to defend this imposing target with many overs of quick, accurate bowling from Chris Burnett (02) 2/13 and Jackson Brackin (12) 3/45. We now look forward to our next rounds against Old Aloysians, Scots and Knox Old Boys.

Club

Above The team still smiling despite the rain!

Laura Handel (06) President, BOGs Hockey

Club The club is always looking to recruit new members for our current season. Barker Old Boys has a rich history in the City & Suburban Cricket Association. Please contact us to find out more information about upcoming matches, or to join us at our next social function. Match fixtures are usually on Sunday afternoons and all are played on turf wickets. Matt Hall (00) 0416 297 775 matt.hall19@icloud.com Sam Haeney (05) 0413 766 207 sam.haeney@gmail.com

OBA GROUPS

BOBs To all the current, present and past BOBs supporters and players, I'd like to bring to your attention, and personally congratulate all the newly elected members of the BOBs Rugby Board. Many positions have been filled with new people including the new President Sean Parker, new Secretary Thomas Hay (14) and the new committee members: Jack Philp (10), Tim Mitchell (06), Andy Rabbitt (10), Andrew Saar (15), Jimmy Glynn (13), Steve Christ (13), Luke Elzerman (13), Nick Spencer (14), Nick Eagleton (92), Jack Finnegan (14) and Cal Colderick (09). Our pre-season training is now underway. Please keep a close eye on announcements on the Barker Old Boys RUFC Facebook page if you are interested in being involved and playing for the club.

OBA As this year creeps closer to an end, the OBA Big Band has made 2016 the year to party down! Since expanding to more funky pop tunes, the band continues to groove and the audience continues to move. Mid-October highlighted the talent and flexibility of our musicians when we performed at the St Johns Annual Fete in Gordon. The performance required a smaller ensemble and after a little tweaking here and there, our condensed band was well-received. In November, the band performed at the annual OBA dinner and we couldn't resist sneaking in a few more hip-shaking, toe-tapping classics. If you would like to contact the OBA Big Band please email OBA_bigband@barker.nsw.edu.au

Our aim for the coming year is to place a huge emphasis on player retention. We are currently working on multiple ideas that will give players not only a reason to join, but a reason to stay. This year we are organising group gym sessions, new club gear and new trips. Stay tuned because BOBs Rugby is at the forefront of contention with many huge opportunities coming up for the 2017 season. Thomas Hay (14) Secretary

Old Barker Theatre

OBAT will return to Barker theatres in Winter 2017! We are looking for as many new members as possible this year, so please, if there are any alumni out there who would like to be involved in any way and are available between April and July 2017 please contact us at: obatheatre@live.com For more updates please look to our Facebook page at: facebook.com/Obatheatre

Amie McNee (10) and Cassandra Jones (10) Co-Presidents, OBAT

Luke Davis (09) OBA Big Band Representative

Society

Have you turned 70? If so, there is an organisation for you. The Over 70s run a number of events each year and are a social group. Our next event will be our annual luncheon at Hornsby RSL Club on 14 March 2017. Invitations and more information will be sent out early next year. If you would like further information, please contact Mandy Loomes in the Alumni Office on 02 9847 8229 or over70s@barker.nsw.edu.au Peter Ward (59)

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

If your children have left Barker and you would still like to support the School and be part of Barker Community events, then the Kurrajong Society is for you. We send a regular newsletter, Kurrajong News to keep you updated on what is happening at Barker College. If you would like more information please contact us at kurrajong@barker.nsw.edu.au

Over

OBA GROUPS

Groups Old Barker Association Tennis: We are looking to see the amount of interest there is for an OBA Tennis Club. What you're looking for? We are open to all ideas - from hitting sessions to competitions. Please reply by email with the following (oba@barker.nsw.edu.au) or post to the Alumni office, 91 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077.

Name:

Contact Email:

Year of Graduation from Barker College

Interested in? Regular Sunday hitting sessions (Weekly) Regular Sunday hitting sessions (fortnightly) Internal competitions External competition (mid week) eg. Tuesday night tennis External competitions (Saturday) e.g. Badge Other

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Comments?

David Bui (09)

OBA TENNIS CLUB

PERSONAL NOTES

Personal (Number in brackets is the alumni year)

JP (Jonathon) Manley (09) and Ellen Kafkis (09) were married by Rev Ware at the Barker College Chapel followed by a reception at Zest Waterfront Venues, The Spit Mosman on a gorgeous sunny day. The Bridal party included Jessie Tank (09), Will Rice (09), Elly Bayne (09), Stefan Giessler, Morgan Shilson-Josling, Remy Brunelli-Brondex (09), Alice Nicol (Hall 09), Brendan Hawes, Laura Manley (12), Gareth Iles (09).

Martyn Johnson (74) I retired from the State of North Carolina Department of Commerce. I am now working as the ED Director for Beaufort County, North Carolina. Martyn Cook (77) Living the good life by the beach in WA for many years now. Professionally, I pursue music related activities. See sample here www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sez9-sIDMI. Always good to hear from Barker people.

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Matt Baker (94) New York based Jazz musician Matt Baker recently returned to Australia for his 2016 jazz concert tour. Whilst in Sydney, Matt supported current Year 10 student Cyrena Bouris with the most wonderful work experience program. Cyrena was involved in all of Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sydney performances and was able to learn how much work goes on behind the scenes and all the different aspects involved for performing live.

Meagan McLachlan (04) moved directly from Barker to UNSW to study a Science / Communication degree specialising in pharmaceuticals. She soon found her calling in education and completed a Bachelor of Secondary Education (UTS) degree followed by the completion of her Masters in Education Leadership (UTS) in 2016. After a period of employment at Chatswood High School, in 2015 Meagan was appointed to the Head of Science position - Northern Beaches Secondary College - Cromer Campus. During 2016 she has led the STEM Initiatives Program in her school, developing a cross-curriculum course that supports student engagement and making connections to the wider community.

PERSONAL NOTES THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016 58

Thomas Swanton (07) married Carmen Wong on 18 June 2016 at St James’ Anglican Church, Croydon. Barker old boys in the bridal party included Ludo Mees (07 – far left), Mark Dunstan (05 – second from the left), and Jono Swanton (12 – next to the groom).

Caitlin Williams (15) was selected for the Young Writers Showcase 2015, an anthology of some of the extraordinary Major Works in print, sound and visual media submitted for the HSC English Extension 2 course. Her story is the very first one in the book which can be obtained through the Board of Studies online shop.

Baptisms

Weddings

17 August Soren Albert Laidlaw, son of Leanne Grimes and Stirling Barker

10 September Jacqueline Saunders and Benjamin

14 August Samantha Kate, daughter of Kate Powell (02) and David Hancock (02)

17 September Ellen Kafkis (09) and JP (Jonathon) Manley (09)

14 August Maisie Ruth, daughter of Natalie and

1 October Yolanda Lui and Albert Kwok (02)

Brett Moore (96) 11 September Lucy Alyce, daughter of Tori and James Keevy (04)

Whittaker (07)

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Dr John Elly Begg (46) 1929 - 2016

When Don left Elders he and Marlene bought a butcher's shop also in Narrabri. After the shop was sold he was employed by Auscott Pty Ltd, working in the cotton industry in a managerial role. Other occupations included running a newsagency and a driving school in the Hunter Valley. Don also renovated old houses in the Lake Macquarie area and owned a banana plantation in the Tweed Valley. Don enjoyed tennis, cricket, squash and yachting. He was an active member of the Toronto Chamber of Commerce for many years and was also a very useful member of Toronto Lions Club. Travelling was always a passion of Don's and he enjoyed being a "grey nomad". He especially enjoyed travelling in outback areas of the country but also enjoyed overseas travels. For many years he travelled with his close friend, Tana, until health issues began to create some problems.

John Dick Paine (55) 1937 - 2016 John Paine, late of Windsor, son of John Jackson Dick Paine (1925), attended Barker from 1950 to 1955; his brothers Richard (55) and Christopher (63) also attended Barker. John was a Prefect in 1954 and 1955. He played in the 1st XV in 1954 and 1955 (awarded Colours both years) and was in the Open Swimming Team in 1954. Admitted as a solicitor in 1962, John practiced at Windsor for over 50 years, as the third generation Paine in the family firm, established in 1828, where the tradition is maintained by his daughter as the fourth generation Paine in the practice. John was involved in many local organisations, including the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Organisation and Windsor Rotary. John died on 18 April and is survived by his wife of 32 years Christine, five children and eight grandchildren. Brian Roberts (past staff) 1942 - 2016 Brian Roberts, late of Lilli Pilli (South Coast) was a Secondary School Mathematics teacher at Barker from 1970 to 2006. Brian was an outstanding teacher who had the gift of explaining mathematical concepts clearly and precisely that enabled students to be fully engaged in their learning, strengthened their confidence and enhanced their capacity to succeed. Throughout his time at Barker, Brian was a supportive and selfless colleague. He held various leadership positions in the Mathematics Department and led by example. If you asked a question - Brian always had a suggestion or a solution. Brian will also be remembered for bringing a sense of fashion to Barker, highlighted by Brylcreemed hair, shorts

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John attended Barker College from 1941 to 1946, achieving a Commonwealth Scholarship to attend Sydney University where he completed an honours degree in Agriculture Science. He joined CSIRO after university starting his research profession at Armidale NSW. It was here that he developed his love of golf, gliding, and flying a Tiger Moth. He pursued his academic qualification in obtaining a PhD in Agriculture at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA in 1962. Upon returning to Australia he rejoined CSIRO, working in the Division of Land and Water Resources, Crop Adaptation and Plant Industry in Canberra. His research programs took him to many places throughout his career and his contributions to agriculture were impressive. John was Deputy Chief of Plant Industry until he retired becoming an Honoree Scientist for a number of years. He was a Life Member of the Institute of Agriculture Scientists in Australia. John is survived by his wife Bonnie and his three sons Geoffrey, Steven and Bruce, their wives and ten grandchildren. John put into practice all he learnt from Barker and leaves a legacy which has enriched all our lives. Praise the Lord. Written by The Begg Family

Donald Douglas McDonald (52) 1935 - 2016 Don McDonald, late of Bolton Point, attended Barker College in 1951-1952 as a boarder. After leaving Barker, Don returned to the family rural property "Whissonsett" near Murrurundi. After some time Don decided to leave to do other things and over the years had many varied occupations. As Don enjoyed the rural lifestyle he was employed as a Branch Manager by Elder Smith working at Collarenebri and then at Narrabri. While in Narrabri he married Marlene and they had three sons.

OBITUARIES

Obituaries

Don was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2008. He managed quite well until 2014 when his health began to deteriorate more rapidly and unfortunately the medical professionals were unable to make him better. Don passed away on 10 July, 2016. He will be sadly missed by his three sons, Douglas, Peter and James and their families, including several grandchildren, as well as his many very dear friends. Written by Alan Ward

OBITUARIES

throughout all seasons and long socks. Brian's love of life was his animals. Miniature horses were a focus early on but Brian was totally devoted to his French bull dogs and Boston terriers both pre and post retirement. 'Master Chef' standard meals were prepared for the dogs prior to the feeding of the human friends. And this was an accepted norm! Outside of Barker, Brian's time was also consumed by the renovation, design and decorating of houses, many of which were featured in photo shoots presented in Australian design magazines. Upon his retirement, Brian moved (for a period of time) to Bali where the design projects continued. Brian is now resting in a better place having passed from this world from the combination of prostate cancer and dementia. Do not cry for what has passed but rather smile from the memories we have of Brian or Mr Roberts if you were one of his students. Written by his close colleague Jacqui McLachlan

THE OLD BARKER | SUMMER 2016

Eric Robinson (65) 1948 - 2015 Eric joined Barker in Year 5 and was one of the last year of leaving certificate students. He was a member of the Chess Team in 1961 and 1962 and was Captain in 1964. Eric also enjoyed success in swimming and placed 4th in the Open 100m Freestyle Handicap in 1963 and 2nd in 1964. After a brief stint at the University of NSW studying Commerce, Eric joined 3M. Three years later he partnered with the Mulholland brothers Paul (65) and David (70) to found JANDS, a psychedelic lighting hire company. Under Eric and Mulhollands' leadership the company has become the largest supplier of audio and lighting equipment to the Australian entertainment industry. Eric remained active until he lost his battle with cancer in November 2015. Eric’s pioneering role in audio and

lighting included mentoring others who went on to local and international careers and the formation of a company training program. In recognition of his enduring contribution to the entertainment industry Eric was presented with a 'Life Time Achievement' award at the 2015 Helpmann awards. Eric was a passionate sailor competing in several Sydney to Hobart and Whitsunday yacht races along with series in Hawaii. Eric’s passion for the water also extended to ocean cruising and together with his wife Patti, Eric spent the last ten years travelling to exotic locations around the world. Eric is survived by his wife Patti, daughter Tara and brothers Edward (68) and Peter (73). Written by Paul Mulholland Mark Twiss (77) 1959 - 2015 Mark Twiss, late of Perth, Western Australia, attended Barker as a boarder (Carter House) from 1973 to 1977. At school, Mark was a keen sportsman. He was a member of the Squash Team and played Rugby for the 5th XV and captained it. He also coached Junior School Rugby sides in 1976-1977. Mark was a great drummer in the Cadet Unit from second to fifth form, and in the Interact Club in third and fourth form. He took a first aid certificate and showed himself willing to help others through various charity collections. He was also a member of the School’s Agricultural Society. Mark was always pleasant and easygoing and had a great sense of humour. His kindness, generosity and his infectious laugh will be missed by us all. Written by Don Gilchrist Andrew John Williams (77) 1959 - 2015 In early 2015, Andrew was diagnosed with ‘stage four’ lung cancer. As is so often the case, the silver lining in learning of such terrible news is the opportunity it provides to spend time with family. This was something Andrew was able to do with his three adult children and grandchildren. After having a baby, Andrew’s second daughter, Beverly, returned from Europe a week before he died. Sadly another grandchild was born just days after his death on August 20.

A crammed funeral chapel was a testament to Andrew’s many friendships and connections. From Barker friends to rugby connections to workmates, the shared memories had a consistent theme… Andrew was larger than life and a larrikin. In 1972 Andrew’s family moved to Sydney from Brisbane and he started at Barker College. He was always passionate about sport and played cricket and soccer, but mostly rugby. After leaving school he played Rugby Union with Hornsby Rugby Club and formed strong friendships among fellow players. Andrew began a Business Studies degree, but the lure of a real job with real pay proved too strong and so he took a job in the Insurance Industry where he stayed for the rest of his working life. When Andrew married Litia he introduced his friends and family to the beauty and warmth of Fijian culture. He proved to be a marvellous father to his three children. When the marriage ended Andrew was responsible for their welfare and upbringing and took his responsibility lovingly and seriously. Andrew was always tremendously proud of them. Andrew found a new life companion in Jenny. After their marriage they shared travel, rugby and cricket and the birth of grandchildren. Andrew had a great sense of humour and had the capacity to make others laugh. He tended to look on the bright side of life and didn’t complain at his medical diagnosis. It is a tragedy that his life was cut so short. His favourite place on earth was Kioloa Beach on the South Coast of NSW where his ashes were scattered early in 2016. Andrew was son to Clive and Beverly, eldest brother to Alison, Catherine (82) and Malcolm (84). He was father (and grandfather) to Stephen (Jackson and Halle), Beverly (Mia, Vinni and Roman) and Setita (Dakota and Sable).

the Date

T20 Cricket

Barker Oval Thursday 23 February 2017

Start time: 3.30pm

Events 2017 Class Reunions

OBA Events

2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Year Reunion Wed 15 Feb Nick Chang nickchang123456@gmail.com Ben Jones bnjones5@bigpond.com Facebook Group: Barker Class of 2015 - Reunion Cocktail Party

OBA Committee Meeting Tues 7 Feb 6.30pm Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

1967 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 50 Year Reunion Sat 16 Sept Peter McIntyre 0418 972 040 peter@mcin.com.au Ralf Rendall 0411 670 294 amalpropval@bigpond.com Over 70s Events Hornsby RSL Luncheon Tues 14 March Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Back to Barker Day Wed 17 May Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

OBA 1st XI v Barker 1st XI 20/20 Cricket Game Thurs 23 Feb Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Committee Meeting Tues 2 May 6.30pm Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Committee Meeting & AGM Tues 25 July 6.30pm Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Committee Meeting Tues 24 Oct Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Annual Dinner Fri 3 Nov Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Regional events provide a great opportunity to connect with members of the Barker community in your area. Please send your contact details to mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au if you are living in a different location to your Barker mailing address, so we can invite you too!

Privacy Due to changes in Privacy Legislation we are required to inform you that your contact details may be shared with OBA reunion organisers with the strict guidelines that they are only to be used for the purposes of organising your OBA reunion. Please contact the Alumni Office if you wish to keep your details private.

Photos Photos from your event may be posted on the OBA Website (www. oba.net.au) and the Alumni Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ barkercollegealumni) and in The Barker magazine. For further queries please contact the Alumni Office.