The Barker #138

Issue 138

Autumn 2023

ISSN: 2204-938X

Leading Learning at Barker

It is an exciting time to be a student or a teacher at Barker College. While the world grapples with political and technological upheavals, it has never been so important to secure a strong and broad education.

The truth that once was spoken:

It has been my great joy and privilege to work with the students, colleagues and parents to stage this astonishingly beautiful work and bring it to life.

A cast of over 100 students, the youngest of whom was in Year 4, and a crew of over 30 spent innumerable hours learning the score and developing each scene of a long and complex piece of theatre. The story comes for a portion of Victor Hugo’s of the same name, the much-loved complex story of Jean Valjean, Fantine, Javert, Marius, Cosette, Eponine and the students of the ABC Café. It is a tale that spans decades of French history and a lifetime of human experience that is for all the ages.

There are many reasons why undertaking such a demanding task as Music Theatre is a marvellous educative exercise. Despite the obvious distractions the Musical is so important for all involved for a variety of reasons:

i. It develops creativity – each student works hard to perfect their own capacity

ii. It rewards resilience and endurance – seeing the work through to the end is a triumph in itself

iii. It stretches self-belief – numerous cast members had no idea how marvellous they are and how much more they can be than they ever thought possible

iv. It binds the community together – friendships are formed across year groups, across usual social settings, and even across interest groups

v. It delights the audience – the vibe of joyous families at the end of each show is immensely rewarding for me as the Director

vi. It offers an opportunity to ponder some big ideas – Les Mis is laden with profound themes of life and death, hate and forgiveness, love and rejection, justice and grace

vii. It is a truly whole of School event – musicians, actors, craftspeople, singers, technical experts, families and parents all combine to do something beautiful

viii. It is respite care for me – relief from my “day (and night) job” is a gift. Connection with the students is one of the joys of my role and the Musical provided this in abundance

Our hearts are thankful for the experience. It has brought the community together in a very special manner, much as any large scale multi-age experience will do when they are done well. The Musical is now but a memory. Yet the themes we tried to portray shall endure – that love triumphs over hate, even if it takes a lifetime. Thank you to over 4000 people who came to watch the show. Thank you to all who made it possible.

Victor Hugo, captures the essence of the story and perhaps sets us a life-long challenge: “To love another person is to see the face of God’.

Farewell to our beloved Deputy Heads, Matt Macoustra and Sue Field

In the next edition of The Barker, we will mark the departure of two remarkable servants of the School. Their contribution will stand as a monument to our motto: Peace

Phillip Heath AM Head of Barker College

‘to love another person is to see the face of God’

Much of this term has been spent on the “barricades” with the wonderful cast of Les Misérables.

Where Your Treasure Is

At Yarramalong, a village in the hinterland of the beautiful Central Coast region of New South Wales, Barker College has its very own Darkinjung Barker campus.

In the main classroom, on the wall facing the hillside, there is a framed notice, which says: “Teaching is a work of heart”.

That was how I began my words of encouragement during the Whole School Commencement Assembly at the Rosewood Centre on 27 January 2023, the first day of Term 1. As always, it is a great joy to see Barker’s current students (Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, including the Darkinjung Barker and Ngarralingayil Barker students), and Barker’s staff all together. And on this occasion, we were joined by the School Council’s President, the Right Rev Kanishka Raffel, Archbishop of Sydney and Metropolitan of New South Wales.

It was an opportunity for me on behalf of Barker’s Governors, to thank the teachers and the staff who support them at Barker’s Hornsby, Yarramalong, Wollombi, and Gunyangara campuses; to acknowledge our current students as the most important members of the Barker community, and to wish them well for the coming year; and of course, to bring a warm welcome to all new staff and to the students commencing their Barker journeys in 2023.

“Teaching is a work of heart” are words to celebrate the gift of teaching and could well have been the main reason why each teacher came to the profession. I observed that the wellbeing of students and staff must be front and centre of all that is said and done at Barker, and that the School Council’s purpose is to govern the School, so that it is, and always will be, a place of belonging for all.

In that spirit, I suggested that we could adjust ever so slightly the words on the notice in the Darkinjung Barker classroom to put it this way – Teaching is work for heart. Barker’s teachers and the staff who support them, enable outcomes which have real and lasting significance for future generations. Their caring work facilitates Barker’s Vision to be a leader in education that inspires hope, beyond the North Shore, beyond

Sydney, beyond Australia, to a global level. Underpinning that Vision of course, is Barker’s Christian framework, a framework established by Barker’s founder and first Head Rev Henry Plume in his early work at Kurrajong Heights and continued by his successors through to the present day with Barker’s ninth Head, Phillip Heath AM.

Barker strives to bring joyfulness and hopefulness to all within its community, and for its students to have the finest and best character and experiential education. And the key is education of the heart. For it is the heart which holds within it all that is most precious, all that we must protect. So, as we continue the great Barker journey, may we all hold in the most precious of places, the God-breathed words (Luke 12:34; Matthew 6:21) - “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.

David Charles (75) Chair of Council

A Fresh Excitement about the Year Ahead

Some feel very established having been here a long time, others have only been here months.

All of us, however, share the same goal of growing in 2023. Growing in the classroom, in friendships, physically, in skills and in faith and character.

I love the image of Psalm 1 which depicts a powerful tree planted by a stream of water, always growing. The tree in Psalm 1 represents a person who feeds their mind on the richness of God’s wonderful word. The Bible contains wisdom for life, guidance for friendships, understanding of the world. Most importantly the Bible features news of salvation and God’s very great love for us as it tells the story of Jesus Christ.

As we feed our mind on God’s word this year, may we be like trees that are strong. So that, whatever our starting point, we may grow. Then together, may we celebrate shared successes and weather difficult storms, loving God with our heart, soul and mind and loving others as ourselves.

Rev Peter Tong Senior Chaplain

CRU Kickstart

Over 60 students from across Years 7-12 joined us for the School's first ever CRU Kickstart in January.

An inaugural weekend camp, CRU Kickstart aims at helping students make the most of the year ahead, build lasting connections, and imagine together what living out the Christian faith could look like in all of life at Barker. Whilst there were so many highlights, here are just a few fond memories the students have shared with us about their time away.

First, who could forget the Paint War? With our Year 7s coming from Sport Trials and arriving after lunch, we needed a good way to help them meet one another and acclimatise to the high energy of camp. So, after a few low-key games in four teams and time to choreograph a war-cry, students and staff swiftly engaged in the carnage of capture the flag, emerging later, soaked with water and covered in colour. Another highlight popular among our Middle School students was having time to get to know our Seniors. In the Barker journey, CRU is one activity which helps foster friendships between younger and older students. Whether that happened through the competition of Gaga-Ball, the way our band led us in worship, or the Saturday evening detective challenge created by our Year 12s, our Senior School students set an excellent example of service and love for others, no matter the age gap.

Last, but certainly not least, students shared how helpful and engaging Rev Tong’s bible talks were. Taking us through a day in the life of Jesus from Mark 4 and 5, we were challenged to see Jesus’ power over creation, his tenderness and care for individuals, and the faith in him that drives out all fear. We also enjoyed a special visit from Phillip Heath, who spurred us on to follow Jesus in faith with grace and courage.

Now that we are back into the swing of things, with CRU

Fridays spilling out of the CRU Room and CRU Small Groups growing in momentum every other lunch time, we can’t wait to see how our campers continue to serve one another and the wider School community. The CRU and Chaplaincy teams encourage all students to join us for CRU and strongly recommend that you sign-up for CRU Kickstart in 2024 (more information to come late in Term 3).

Mitch Derbyshire Christian Studies & English Teacher CRU Coordinator

When in Rome

Learning Italian in Junior School has allowed us to foster relationships with our two sister schools in Como, Italy, upholding the PYP philosophy of establishing international mindedness.

Through the pen pal program, students share their ideas, actions and reflections. Students have the opportunity to practise the language as well as share their cultural practices with our Italian friends.

In Term 4 2022, our Year 5 students shared their Christmas cultural practices with our Italian friends. During Term 1, students received beautiful presents and carefully designed cards from our two sister schools written in Italian and English, sharing their cultural practices.

This has been a pivotal moment for our students learning the language and Italian culture. The experience is meaningful, rich, real and relevant.

Grace Bergan Junior School Teacher - Italian

Helen Posega Junior School Specialist Teacher - Italian

Lisa Bonazza Pre-K Italian teacher

Leaders’ Induction

The Junior School leaders for 2023 were officially commissioned in an Induction Service as part of the Years 5 and 6 Chapel Service earlier this term in front of their parents and peers.

The children were presented their badges of office by Phillip Heath and the Senior School Captains and they took a pledge to serve the Junior School throughout this year.

The model of leadership espoused at Barker, is one of service and humility based on the model of Christ as the ultimate service leader.

Leadership involves seeing a need and faithfully stepping into the space and acting. It is about serving others so that they have every opportunity to be at their best, to achieve all that they want to achieve. With our young leaders we teach skills around serving need, understanding and showing empathy, demonstrating commitment to tasks and others, as well as the importance of example. It is also critical to understand the place of relationships in leadership. Leadership starts with the heart.

We see that all of our Year 6 children are the leaders of the Junior School, setting the example for the rest of the School and ensuring a positive environment for all students.

Martin Lubrano Head of Junior School

The Season for Growing and Knowledge of Everything

The sound of the horn and the djamarrkuli come running from their houses and climb into the back of the troopy.

There is always lots of chatting and laughing while we drive house to house and pick up more students and families. We are greeted at school by Erika (Wellbeing Officer) who has prepared a hearty breakfast for all the djamarrkuli. We gather in the classroom, put on our uniforms, brush our teeth, exercise and say our morning prayer. We count the students sitting in the circle. 1, 2, 3….24, 25, 26. These are fantastic numbers for our little school. Miss Lori takes the younger students named Midawarr class (the season for growing) and Mr Tom keeps the older class named Djambatj (knowledge of everything). The School has started well for 2023 and we have had great support from all of our staff. We would like you to meet our wonderful staff below:

English name/yäku: Janet

Yolŋu name/yäku: Watjwatj

Skin name/Malk: Gutjan

Homeland/Waŋa: Bariny Bariny

What do you like about Dhupuma Barker?

I love all of the djamarrkuli. Seeing them come to school, playing, learning, enjoying themselves. I love getting them out on Country and seeing them use their knowledge. This school is manymak!

English name/yäku: Cedric

Yolŋu name/yäku: Balpirrirriwuy

Skin name/Malk: Balaŋ

Homeland/Waŋa: Guluruŋa

What do you like about Dhupuma Barker?

The djamarrkuli are learning both ways. Good teachers with Yolŋu and Balanda. I’m looking forward to the future and seeing what this school becomes as we continue to grow and learn together.

English name/yäku: Lizzie

Yolŋu name/yäku: Djalulu

Skin name/Malk: Galigali

Homeland/Waŋa: Galawarra

What do you like about Dhupuma Barker?

I love going out Learning on Country with the kids. This is when they are at their happiest. I enjoy seeing the kids pick up a book everyday and sitting down learning to read.

English name/yäku: Mikey

Yolŋu name/yäku: Guyarŋa

Skin name/Malk: Wāmut

Homeland/Waŋa: Gunyaŋara

What do you like about Dhupuma Barker?

What I like about Dhupuma is watching the djamarrkuli learn and how much they have grown in the past few months. I want to teach these kids to be the future yidaki players for ceremonies.

English name/yäku: Erika

Yolŋu name/yäku: Nonna

Skin name/Malk: Galikali

Homeland/Waŋa: Mallarrami

What do you like about Dhupuma Barker?

I love all the smiling faces and the kids so keen to learn. We have the freedom to learn in both Yolŋu Matha and English.

Tom Spencer Dhupuma Barker Classroom Teacher

Aspiring to be Bold Thinkers

The Aspire (Gifted and Talented) Program in Junior School has commenced with all classes participating in a ‘jump off’ Critical and Creative Thinking lesson.

The IB Learner Profile asks students to develop their capacity as risk-takers and thinkers. Our Junior School students were presented with a range of provocations aimed at encouraging them to make inferences, explore new ideas, and create innovative strategies.

Our younger learners in K-2 enjoyed a shared reading of ‘All the ways to be smart ’ by Davina Bell. Inspired by this engaging book, students reflected on the many contexts and applications of ability and reflected on their own personal strengths. They also demonstrated their creativity by participating in the ‘Treasure Box’ drama game – a task which required them to decide upon a unique way of representing a special item.

In Years 3 – 6, students ideated upon the concept of ‘the fun theory’, identifying ways in which humans are motivated to engage in enjoyable activities. They also participated in a shared reading of ‘What do you do with an idea? ’ by Kobi Yamada, discussing the various ways that ideas can be nurtured and developed. Finally, our older students became design thinkers, engineering a collaborative solution to complete a ‘cup stacking’ challenge.

‘Ideas are always at the back of our minds, but we have to choose to notice them and give them attention. That’s how they grow’. Zoen, 6B.

A key focus of the Aspire Program is to encourage students to think critically and creatively about the complexities of contemporary society, its challenges and opportunities. By participating in a broad range of learning experiences, our students will face the future equipped with problem-solving skills, the capacity to clearly communicate their thinking, and confidence.

Susanna Matters Gifted & Talented Coordinator

How we Lift and Belong

Being landlocked, there are no beaches or surfing culture and Afghans who come to Australia are vulnerable in our coastal-clinging country.

Over January, we had the opportunity to include twenty children from Hope House Orphanages in Kabul and the Panjshir Valley in the Barker Intensive Learn to Swim School.

Many thanks to Georgia MacPherson, Idesa Vincent and the excellent team of instructors from Barker's Aquatic Centre who gave their time and expertise to make sure these children were water-safe for our Summer. They wore the Rashies donated by our generous staff as part of the Christmas Giving Appeal by the People & Culture team and this money was matched by BIG W at Macquarie Park.

The children took to the water with great joy and enthusiasm and like all Aussie kids, they asked each day if they could stay in the pool just “just a bit longer, please!”

Speedo Australia also donated further swimming gear such as goggles and caps as they moved towards more proficient swimming, as many progressed during this time.

Not only do the children of migrants suffer significantly higher rates of drowning in Australia, learning to swim adds to their sense of belonging as this article in SBS suggests: I have always struggled to fit in with Australia's swimming culture | SBS Life: www.sbs.com.au/topics/voices/culture/ article/2018/01/17/i-have-always-struggled-fitaustralias-swimming-culture

If you are interested in supporting a refugee child in our Intensive Learn to Swim program in the Easter holidays, please contact Julia West, JWest@barker.nsw. edu.au. A donation of $100 covers transport and a week’s tuition.

Your Tax deductable donation can be made here https://bit.ly/3ZEXyRT

Julia West Director of Humanitarian Programs

Afghanistan is a country of great natural beauty with snow-capped mountain ranges, deep, fast-flowing rivers and fertile land.

Publishing the close-to-practice research that takes place within the Barker community is an important part of the Barker Institute’s role within the School.

Learning in Practice is a published conversation in which reflections on practice take place, and professional learning and development benefit.

As the editors, we are proud to launch the 6th edition of Learning in Practice. We hope it is useful and informative for teachers, parents, and researchers.

Dr Timothy Scott Barker Institute Research Fellow &

Lead Editor

Dr Matthew Hill Director of the

Institute

Dr Matthew Hill Director of The Barker Institute

Dr Timothy Scott Research Fellow, The Barker Institute

2022

Barker

An Inspiring Visit: Year 12 Visual Arts Excursion

It was a rainy Wednesday and a perfect day for Year 12 Visual Arts students to take shelter inside two of Sydney’s premier art institutions. Starting at the impressive and newly opened Art Gallery of New South Wales North campus, students had a chance to explore the collection.

“The new building is a series of light-filled pavilions and graceful outdoor terraces that step down towards Sydney Harbour. A vast rammed earth wall cuts a dramatic curve through the building. On the lowest level of the building, discover a space like no other in Sydney: a reclaimed underground fuel bunker built during World War II and previously inaccessible to the public.” - AGNSW

Some of the highlights included Adrian Villar Rojas’ The End of Imagination a unique experience in the shadows of the former bunker where spotlights moved and illuminated large scale sculptural works resembling futuristic creatures. Upstairs students were invited to collaborate in Kimsooja’s installation Archive of the Mind and create clay spheres to be displayed together with the public on mass. Importantly the Year 12 cohort also had a chance to peruse the outstanding student artworks developed for the art-making component of the HSC examination at Art Express. After lunch in the Domain students continued their art

adventure at the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay. Here they visited the solo exhibition of South Korean artist Do Ho Suh, known for his architectural installations and unusual uses of materials. In Rubbing/Loving Project: Seoul Home Do Ho Suh ambitiously rendered the exterior of his parents’ home in Seoul, a traditional Korean hanok house with its characteristic tiled, curved roof, through a series of paper rubbings and reconstructed at full scale in the Museum. After a full day of viewing, art students came away inspired by what they had seen. They were buzzing with ideas for their own artmaking endeavours and were able to contextualise the art world in relation to their own critical studies about art. A valuable and enjoyable experience we would recommend to anyone on the next rainy day.

“On the excursion I was able to use my knowledge from Visual Arts theory lessons, apply it to the best of the best artworks and understand them better.”

Daniel Holmes

“Visiting the Art Gallery of NSW and the Museum of Contemporary Art was an eye-opening experience for me”

Riley Quinn

“Seeing the artworks on display was motivating for us to do well in our own art making”

David Kang

“I liked seeing the way different artists had played with materials, light and scale”

Matthew Stitt

2022 HSC Visual Arts Highlights

Barker students Kat Negro and Lucy Barden from our HSC Visual Arts 2022 cohort have had their artworks selected for display at the Grace Cossington Smith Gallery, Wahroonga as part of the Art North showcase of the best student submissions for art making. Kat produced several dramatic charcoal portraits rendered beautifully and Lucy labored over a large scale multicoloured crochet work evoking the Great Barrier Reef. In addition, Oliver Gregg was nominated for Art Express with his graphic design series depicting a digitally illustrated and paradoxical anti-hero.

Rikki Latella Acting Head of Visual Arts

World’s Most Valuable Resource

AI technology such as Chat GPT has hit the mainstream causing disruption in areas such as business, the arts and education. The reporting of major cybersecurity breaches is almost a daily occurrence. So, it is vital that students encounter a robust and rigorous Computer Science education to thrive in a technology driven world.

The NSW Education Standards Authority has released new Computer Science syllabi which will commence in NSW schools from 2024. The naming of the courses, Software Engineering and Enterprise Computing, better aligns to university study and industry practice. This is complemented by a new and invigorating Years 9 and 10 (Stage 5) elective, Computing Technology, that sets the foundation for these senior courses.

Barker, with its proud history as a leader in computer science education, will be at the forefront of developing engaging, relevant and practical educational experiences. We see our students as not just consumers but creators and leaders in this exciting field. As John Chambers, former executive chairman of Cisco once said, “If you don’t innovate fast, disrupt your industry, disrupt yourself, you’ll be left behind.”

Colin Jaques Head of Computer Science

Data has been touted as the “world’s most valuable resource”, even more valuable than oil.

Building the Next Generation of Quality Teachers

Research over a number of years has indicated that many new graduate teachers leave the profession within their first five years, either disillusioned with the profession or realising that this isn’t actually the career that they had anticipated. They have not necessarily had the experiences throughout their training that has prepared and equipped them or provided them with the insight into what life will be like once they have graduated and taken on a role within a school.

The Barker College Intern Program has a key commitment to the development of trainee teachers in context, where they are able to immerse themselves in the culture of Barker and learn from experienced educators throughout the year. The trend in education degrees at university, especially in more recent years has been for undergraduates to only enter classrooms after a couple of years of their course and then for short block experiences.

Four primary teacher trainees have been employed in the Junior School for 2023. They are at various stages of their education training and will be working with a team of teachers, supporting students and teachers across their allocated year group. We are confident that this program will provide great benefit to the trainee teachers as well as the grade groups that they work closely with throughout the year.

We began the year with two interns in the Secondary School. Our Science Department is welcoming a very accomplished student, bringing a passion for experiential learning and a commitment to promoting scientific thinking across a range of pursuits. Our Wellbeing team will also be assisted by an enthusiastic and energetic intern who brings with her a wide range of experience in independent school settings.

The six interns joined our new staff for two days of orientation in January, where the Head of Barker College and Senior Leadership team shared the Barker Mission, Vision and Values, the School’s key strategic priorities and welcomed them to the outstanding team of educators we are blessed to have working at Barker.

We are sure that as they learn more about education practices they will contribute much as they embrace the Barker community.

Alison Binet Deputy Head People & Culture

Dr Julie Wilson Reynolds Deputy Head Academic Care

Lubrano Head of Junior School

Martin

The opportunity to have direct impact into the next generation of teachers is a great privilege and an important responsibility.

Leading Learning at Barker

It is an exciting time to be a student or a teacher at Barker College.

While the world grapples with political and technological upheavals, it has never been so important to secure a strong and broad education. The brilliance of our Barker learning journey is that we value our tradition at the same time as we have vision and energy for reform.

Committed to bringing excellence to teaching and learning, the new Learning Team is excited about the year ahead. To prepare for this we have reviewed the valuable feedback given by parents in the MMG survey, consulted our own academic Department Heads and Pastoral Heads of House to review our learning culture. Under our banner of bringing both the academic and the care strands together our three focus areas for 2023 are: Challenge, Care and Connection.

Facing challenges speeds up learning. Our students understand well the need for training, planning and tenacity in their co-curricular pursuits. We encourage our students to bring these experiences to mind when they are facing challenges in the academic realm. Angela Duckworth, in her book “Grit”, explains that working in a space where challenge exceeds skill will bring rewards.

Academic Care brings together excellence in both knowledge and wellbeing for the best outcomes for our students. Our diverse learning programs are underpinned by a web of pastoral networks and supported by staff who are both proactive and responsive. We seek to provide learning that is tailored to the needs of our students and share scaffolds for assistance or more demanding tasks for extension as needed.

Connection is our third focus area, and this is how we bring challenge and care together. Being connected involves understanding, effective communication and great teamwork. We hope that we can continue to strengthen the links between school and home and invite feedback from students and parents throughout the year. Collaboration is key to innovation.

At the beginning of 2023, we launched our new Learning team, to bring this collaboration to life. We want our strategies and programs to consolidate excellence in learning across the Middle and Senior Schools. In building the team we spent time reviewing our roles, calibrating them to the emerging needs of students and staff and devising ways to better work together. The Learning team will help deliver the strategic imperatives of the School, whilst providing the structures and protocols to deliver programs and initiatives. The team will support our very talented Heads of Departments in engaging our students in subjects that interest and extend them.

Some of the areas of expertise in the team include devising curriculum strategy, leading digital innovation, using data and feedback for improvement, providing professional learning, valuing research and supporting individual learning needs.

Our Learning team will continue to connect with staff, students, and parents to find ways to better plan, deliver and communicate our learning programs. We understand the importance of partnerships; and know that professional generosity is a hallmark of Barker. We are excited about the possibilities for building challenge and care in the learning space and look forward to the year ahead.

Dr Julie Wilson Reynolds Deputy Head Academic Care

Left to right Director Curriculum Strategy, Philip Mundy; Head of Individual Learning Centre, Natalie Smith; Director Curriculum Operations, Pete Rundle; Director Digital Learning Innovation, Andy Mifsud; Director Teaching and Learning, Greg Longney; Deputy Head Academic Care, Julie Wilson Reynolds; Director Barker Institute, Matt Hill; Director Student Analytics, Suellen Loughhead; Director Curriculum Support, Sharon Hogan; Director Professional Learning, Sarah Clifton; Director Accreditation and Technics Innovation, Tim Milkins.

Library Lovers’ Day

This Term the Barker College Library celebrated a special day in the world of libraries nationally, Library Lovers’ Day!

The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) promotes this event to celebrate the multifaceted role libraries play within communities and all the opportunities they offer to patrons.

The Barker College Library has played a significant role within the Barker community since it was first mentioned in the April 1912 edition of The Barker where it was described as “very popular” and where any “very popular book has a short life, but a gay one.” Throughout Barker College’s history, the library has had many iterations and relocations; from a space “tastefully decorated with framed coloured posters…., four beautiful reproduction Persian carpets…. and a readers’ table” up until 2002 when the Barker College Library’s current building was opened. Even after this date, the space and services have evolved and continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of the School community.

The library is pivotal to students’ learning and progression to becoming independent learners and researchers. It is also a haven for many, especially on a Summer’s day! The library services the community through the free reading program “Book Bites” in Years 7 and 8 and the “Books and Bikkies” book clubs for Years 7 to 10 during lunchtime.

The space also hosts “Wrapped with Love,” a charity knitting group, a Board Games club, and Creative Writing. Teachers are

also able to schedule research assistance for students through the library and it is the perfect environment for some extra study until 8:30pm (Monday-Thursday). The library is even open for those who want to put in a few extra hours on Saturday (1pm-4pm).

Library Lovers’ Day was an opportunity to bring some love into the library and to celebrate all things library. Library Lovers’ Day featured ‘Blind Date with a Book’, the opportunity to share why the School community love libraries, as well as a few sweet treats.

Claire Elliott Assistant Coordinator Library Services

Reading for Pleasure –What does this look like

Reading can serve as a form of escapism, allowing readers to escape their daily routine and immerse themselves in a different world. It also helps to reduce stress and improve overall mental health. Reading for pleasure can also improve vocabulary and language skills, increase empathy and understanding of different perspectives, and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, reading can stimulate the imagination and creativity, providing a much-needed break from technology and the fast-paced world of school and work. Overall, reading for pleasure is a simple yet powerful tool for personal growth and enrichment that we can all take advantage of.

In recognition of these benefits, Barker Library implements a variety of programs and initiatives that cater to different interests and reading levels to foster a love of reading and encourage all members of the Barker Community to read for leisure.

BookBites is our Year 7 and 8 reading for pleasure program. With a renewed focus on the how and why of reading, we investigate the benefits, myths and feelings towards reading with our students. By creating a nurturing, and positive culture towards reading we are supporting our students towards being successful, happy readers.

Every week students are given the opportunity to talk all things books whilst enjoying some biscuits. Barker Library’s book club, Books and Bikkies runs lunchtime sessions for Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 students, enabling students to inspire one another with their reading journeys, and in turn help promote reading as the fun and enjoyable activity it can be.

Over the Christmas break, staff were invited to REST, RELAX & READ with a personalised Holiday Care Package. Stocked with books, bookmarks and Christmas treats, it was a great way to head into the holidays and staff had all the essentials for a reading for pleasure experience. The Holiday Care Packages will be available to staff in 2023 at the end of Term 2 and 4 so keep a look out for your invitation and let the library take care of all your reading needs.

Justine Allen Teacher Librarian

Reading for pleasure is an essential part of a wellrounded education, as it has numerous benefits for students, teachers and the wider School community’s academic, emotional, mental and cognitive wellbeing.

Constitutional Convention 2022

Year 12 student Boo Whiteley was selected to participate in the NSW Constitutional Convention at NSW Parliament House on 29 November 2022.

Students were given the opportunity to learn about and discuss the Australian Constitution and our system of government. She found the day to be both interesting and informative, and shares her experience here:

Last year I was fortunate enough to attend the Constitutional Convention held at NSW Parliament House alongside other Year 11 Legal Studies students from across the state. Prior to the event, candidates were required to submit a response to the topic, “The appointment, removal and accountability of Ministers is based as much on convention as law. How can we ensure that Ministers are truly accountable to Parliament and the people, and should we move away from convention to strict legal requirements?” Through my research for the response, I was able to learn more about the importance of ministerial roles, in representing the interests of their party as well as the broader community. Additionally, I broadened my understanding of the role of ICAC, an organisation examined within the Legal Studies course and its importance in serving as an independent body, overseeing ministerial conduct. This research served as the foundation of my argument as I uncovered the lack of transparency in Ministers' actions needs to be addressed and could be done so through stricter requirements.

We heard from the speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Jonathon O’Dea as well as Anne Twomey, Professor of Constitutional Law and Director of Constitutional Law Reform Unit. Professor Twomey spoke passionately about the history and importance of the Constitution, with her lecture serving as a catalyst for our group discussions on whether the Constitution is an effective source of law for the appointment and removal of Ministers. The majority of students in my group decided that in order to maintain accountability from Ministers, a stronger emphasis needed to be placed on enforcing a permanent independent body in order to examine and scrutinise the integrity of leaders of the NSW government and thus, increase accountability for all stakeholders. Overall, the day was extremely enlightening. It was an honour to be able to hear from Professor Twomey and discuss matters with a diverse group of individuals.

Boo Whiteley, Year 12

Kate Kempthorne Legal Studies Coordinator

Middle School Tree

At the heart of culture is a set of values and principles that gently press the individuals who walk the corridors, pathways and fields into particular communal beliefs and interactions.

The culture of Barker College is grounded in its motto Honor non Honores, a beautiful phrase that lifts our eyes beyond personal gain to honourable conduct, performed without expectation of reward. Within the motto sit the Barker College Values of Commitment, Compassion, Courage, Integrity and Respect. While these values are certainly not unique to our School, they are the standards we hold our staff and students to. They are the ideals that point to an honourable life.

The Barker Values are infused with meaning and given clarity for our Middle School students via the Middle School tree. This is a way of ensuring that the youngest students in the Secondary School can understand what is

expected of them and what they should strive towards. On the trunk of the tree, from which all the branches grow, is character. Producing people of good character, who adhere to our high standards even when their resolve is tested, is paramount. We want our students to succeed academically, we want them to grow in physical strength and agility, we want them to be supported emotionally and extended socially. However, it is good character that feeds these other aspects. It is good character that endures and contributes most to a positive imprint on the world.

As our students enter Years 7, 8 and 9 in 2023 I hope they can find connection, understand themselves and their community, try new things, embrace their learning, seek challenge, serve others, reflect effectively and be grateful. And when they fall short, to try again.

Kathryn Driver Dean of the Middle School

At the heart of any school is its culture, a shared but unspoken ‘way’ that the school community operates.

Maths Alumni Teachers

Edward Koorey (16) and Christopher Lee (16) were both taught by our current Head of Mathematics, Graham Hanlon. They attribute their passion for teaching to their time at Barker and especially their final years studying Mathematics in his Extension 2 classroom. Edward has joined the Mathematics department this year after completing a Master of Teaching at the University of Sydney. Christopher teaches in both the Christian Studies and Mathematics departments.

Peter Boyages (05), Rhys Williams (08) and Daniel Batchen (11) are all Alumni. Peter and Daniel were taught by Graham Hanlon and Daniel says: “I had never particularly considered Maths as one of my favourite subjects until Year 11, when I found the concepts and problems to solve much more interesting and satisfying. By the end of Year 12, I considered Maths to be the most rewarding subject I had studied at school.”

Andrew Mallam (97) was taught by Boyd Carruthers who teaches alongside him today. Darren Peattie (93) teaches many children of his former peers both in his Mathematics class and his role as head of Wilson House.

Amy Young (91) joined Barker in Year 11 and studied 4-unit Mathematics with Dr John Scott, the father of Dr Timothy Scott (92) a current History teacher. Amy brings to the Mathematics department a love of Mathematics and a passion for understanding the needs of girls.

We are fortunate to have such a passionate team of Mathematics teachers including our Junior School Mathematics specialist, Edwin Tomlins (97) who currently teaches the grandson of his Year 12 Mathematics teacher.

Allison Davis Assistant Coordinator Mathematics and Mathematics Teacher

A love of mathematics runs deep at Barker as there are currently nine Mathematics teachers who are also Alumni.

Clockwise Edward Koorey and Christopher Lee at the end of Year 12; Edwin Tomlins, Ross King, Tim Perry with Andrew Mallam in 1997; Amy Young on her first day of School in Year 11; Rhys Williams front right in his Ext 2 class in 2008 with his teacher Matthew Dunstan; Darren Peattie 1993 Second Soccer Captain; Daniel Batchen in Middle School.

Boarding Candle Tradition Continues

The candle has been at the School since 2003, thanks to Michael and Theresa James. After being heavily involved in boarding for many years, Michael and Theresa wanted to present a gift to the boarding community that would represent their appreciation for what all the boarders and families had done for them during their time.

The candle represents Barker’s boarding families, and the connection the students have whilst away from home. It has layers of rings around it; the top layer signifies the students; the next layer has a double ring which signifies the parents and last and bottom layer has four rings, that signifies grandparents.

“Michael and I gave this to boarding when we left the first time in 2003. We had such a special time during our boarding years and have fond memories about our time at Barker Boarding. We have made many lifelong friends with both parents and students. It was specially made by the Technics teacher at the time, Andrew Smith.”

“It was a thank you for our time in boarding where we were blessed to be trusted by the parents to be the boarders’ carers, but we wanted to show the importance of family and friendships whilst being away from home”, added Theresa.

Theresa also mentioned that it’s “heart-warming” knowing the candle is being used weekly.

“It is reassuring that Chapel is still an important part of the boarding week. For many of the boarders, and students generally, the Barker Chapel is their only experience of organised worship, and the Chaplain, the only Minister with whom they engage. Chapel, the Chaplaincy team and Christian Studies are a big part of what makes Barker College and Boarding at Barker unique.

Head of Boarding, Ben Christopherson, is thankful for the gift and believes it’s important to maintain tradition.

“I am grateful for boarding traditions especially in Chapel. It gives relevance to current and future boarders. It’s nice to have a regular talking point for students, to reflect on their grandparents, parents and how they will always be surrounded by family."

Hannah McGrory Boarding Supervisor - Day

The Barker Boarding candle holds a significance in Boarding and is lit weekly for each special boarding Chapel service.

To Love Another Person is to See the Face of God

After seven sold out performances; numerous standing ovations and countless hours of careful work, the final curtain came down on the 2023 Musical, Les Misérables.

The last time Barker College Music-Drama performed this timeless classic in the musical theatre repertoire was in 2006 and we were thrilled to bring it to life once again, telling this powerful old story to a new generation in the Barker community.

In the final moments of Les Misérables, the lead characters, Jean Valjean, Eponine and Fantine, jointly sing the line that best captures the entire story: To love another person is to see the face of God. It is a story for all the ages and for all times.

Set against the backdrop of the turbulent years of post-Napoleonic France, the musical Les Misérables takes portions of Victor Hugo’s epic novel of the same name and creates a sweeping storyline from 1815 in the Toulon prison galleys to Montreuil-Sur-Mer in 1823 to the Paris Revolution of 1832, when economic hardship across the land was exacerbated by a horrific cholera epidemic. In such desperate times, it was the poor and the powerless who suffered the greatest hardships and we first meet the central figure, Jean Valjean, in his most pitiable state as he completes his nineteen-year sentence for the theft of a loaf of bread and for attempting to escape.

His life is changed by the kindness of the Bishop of Digne, who returns love for Valjean’s hate and “bought his soul for God”. The rest of the narrative of Les Misérables, with all its complicated subplots, plays from this extravagant moment of loving grace by the kindly Bishop.

The Barker production team assembled a cast and crew worthy of the renown of this work. The show required performers who were capable of meeting the demands of the score and the acting of a story so well-known and beloved by generations. The soloists defied their youthful age and offered such depth and beauty to their performance. The chorus scenes, which were plentiful in Les Misérables, were critically important to the story telling and hence very demanding on a young cast. Broadening the ensemble to include students in Year 10 as well as Years 11 and 12 helped us add strength to an already eager and capable cast and crew.

We also welcomed students from our Junior School and Year 7 who played the role of Little Cosette and Little Eponine.

The creative skill of the production team was a delight from first to last: Pia Midgley and Simon Smith’s unfailing support, Karen James’ diligent and wise administration, Teresa Huzij’s skilful choreography and costuming, Dugal Parker’s theatre craft and creative energy, and Kath Day’s finesse in accompaniment in countless hours of rehearsal. It was a joy to work with Emma Scarlis, a truly gifted and creative Drama/ English educator who assisted with the direction. And the musical genius of Peter Ellis, in his first musical theatre production as Music Director, scaled new heights in the work with the ensemble.

Above all, however, our admiration and thanks must be expressed to the students of Barker, both on stage and in the production crew. The performance of Jean Valjean (Ryan), Fantine (Georgie), Eponine (Leah), Enjolras (Kyle), Javert (Andrew), Cosette (Sarah), Marius (Tom), and the Thenardiers (Jamison and Eli) will long be remembered. The Ensemble of students and ladies was extraordinary.

This show requires a broad and capable cast and the 2023 surpassed all expectations. You are our inspiration and delight and we truly honour the hours of sacrifice and discipline you gave to make this beautiful show a reality –from page to stage, a toilsome delight. As Valjean, Fantine and Eponine reminds us, “To love another person is to see the face of God”. This is what you have all accomplished. Merci.

Phillip Heath AM Director

Response-Ability

Learning about what others think is useful, though not sufficient. You have to test out ideas and put into practice your findings.

Watching a video on how to animate may be interesting, though it is not the same as creating your own animation. Reading about the properties and characteristics of metal is not the same as machining or fabricating different types of metal. The ability for students to make projects, promotes thinking, curiosity and engagement. And in a busy world, where students have difficulty learning all that is required, a project enables students to respond and cultivate their ability.

The HSC results achieved by students within the Design and Technology Department in 2022 were particularly pleasing. John Conomos achieved 5th place in the State for Design and Technology, and this is testament to his ability, within many different areas.

The following list of management competencies align closely with the skills that the practical subjects provide within the Design and Technology Department.

Decision Making and Judgement

Researches and gathers information/data from others in order to make appropriate decisions. Balance analysis and experience when making decisions.

Communication

Present information clearly, concisely and logically. Convey ideas graphically using sketches and digitally generated models. Use both written and video communication to justify the processes that have been applied.

Problem Solving

Examine alternatives available through research and testing to determine conclusions and make recommendations. Break down problems into manageable parts. Seek out themes, patterns, principles and context when making decisions.

Creative and Innovative Thinking

Develop original and novel ideas to solve a genuine need or opportunity. Apply a range of techniques to generate creative ideas.

Customer Focus

Identifies the needs and wants of the target market. Empathises with their needs using situational analysis and work flow methods. Evaluates demographic, psychographic, geographic and behavioural characteristics to determine the needs of the users.

Group Work

Working collaboratively to clarify opportunities and to provide feedback on each stage completed during the design process. Students gain valuable insights by applying techniques to generate creative ideas and through the use of evaluation routines.

Influencing Others

Inspires and persuades others on the ideas that they develop. Promote a vision on how their solution will lead to a preferred future.

Leadership

Set clear, meaningful, challenging and attainable goals. Communicate these goals and the strategies for achieving them by working effectively with other students and staff. Identify and apply a range of skills to design and produce a quality project that fulfils the intended purpose.

Students who complete a major project are well positioned to make sense of the world’s problems and opportunities so that they can contribute and lead others in the development of appropriate solutions. Completing a practical project provides students with a strong reference point for life long-learning and they are well placed to pursue further study not only in design related courses, but also in management related occupations.

Darren Woodrow Head of Design & Technology

Round Square

Perspective

An anthology of research papers authored by Student Research Ambassadors who participated Cross-cultural Study of Leadership in Round Square Schools led by Dr Ewan Wright, Assistant and Research Fellow and Dr. Kanwal Seyda Hassam at The Joseph Lau Lune Hung Charitable Pacific Centre for Leadership and Change at The Education University of Hong Kong

Character education is about developing the whole person, developing students for life, not just for school. But how can we take Character Education beyond the Mint Gates? How do we make a global contribution, which is a part of our School's vision?

An opportunity has arisen for Barker to join a group of schools from around the world that are united by their concept of education, learning and the formation of character. This diverse network of 230 like-minded schools from across the world care passionately about what happens in the future to our world. It desires for communities to thrive, prosper and care about each other in mutual cooperation. This group of schools is called the Round Square.

The network of Round Square schools share a commitment to the development of six themes called IDEALS, these are

• International Understanding

• Democracy

AnanthologyofresearchpapersauthoredbyStudentResearchAmbassadorswhoparticipatedina Cross-culturalStudy ofLeadership in Round Square Schools led by DrEwan Wright,AssistantProfessor

Founded in 1966, Round Square owes much of its heritage and philosophy to Kurt Hahn, a German educator, who founded the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Outward Bound movement and Gordonstoun School in Scotland. He famously said, ‘there is more in us than we know’.

Round Square supports schools in embedding Character Education and experiential learning within and beyond the curriculum shaping the way in which students understand, prepare for and respond to the world’s challenges both now and in the future.

• Environmental Stewardship

• Adventure

• Leadership

• Service

These IDEALS are underpinned by twelve Discoveries. This framework facilitates student voice, agency and development opportunities to grow a student’s character, equipping them for life and inspiring a commitment to serve others.

We are thrilled that our students and staff will be able to access many wonderful and rich opportunities through our Round Square membership. Some of these include international and regional school exchanges, conferences, international service projects and school collaborations of various kinds.

Peter Gibson Dean of Character Education

Shaping character is at the heart of great education and has always been an important part of the Barker journey.

The College of Teachers

Helping Teachers to Become Great! One conversation at a time.

The College of Teachers (CoT) was created in 2015 by the Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath AM. Its purpose was to develop a coaching culture to support the professional learning vision for the teaching staff. The long-term goals were firstly for staff to become members of the CoT and secondly, for those members to develop coaching skills to enable better professional conversations.

The focus of coaching at Barker aims to improve teaching practice leading to improved student learning outcomes through the development of professional partnerships and personal goal setting. Where coaching is a guided conversation underpinned by firstly trust, together with fairness, reciprocity, and equity.

The vision of the CoT is to play an integral role in the professional learning framework at Barker College. There are two ways in which the vision is achieved.

1. Coaching Training for Barker Teachers

In excess of one hundred teachers have completed varying levels of coaching training since 2015. Over the last two years a Barker-developed training program has been operating. The Coaching Champions program has invited targeted teachers to complete a training course based upon the foundations of the Solution Focused model of coaching. Through a combination of theoretical sessions and practical conversation exercises, The Champions develop their skills and upon competition are offered entry to the CoT Active Coaches Register.

2. CoT Active Coaches

In 2022 there were forty-two Active Coaches who have developed coaching partnerships with teaching colleagues across the school. The Active Coaches provided additional support for teachers new-toBarker through regular meetings and coaching conversations. In addition, the two Lead Teacher Coaches support new graduate teachers with a program of classroom observations, reflections and coaching conversations.

The College of Teachers has an important role to play in the professional learning framework at Barker College. The CoT is focused on helping teachers become great teachers, one coaching conversation at a time!

Jacqui McLachlan Lead Teacher Coach - CoT

Curriculum Dance

Early this year, Year 9 and 10 students studying curriculum dance attended the ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’ at the Seymour Centre.

The ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’ is an annual showcase of exemplary performances and compositions from the 2022 HSC Dance examinations hosted by the New South Wales Education Standards Authority and the New South Wales Department of Education. The ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’ provided the Barker Curriculum Dance students with the outstanding opportunity to witness exemplary Core Performance, Core Composition, and Major study works by the top performing students from New South Wales, and to understand the high expectations for undertaking Dance as an ATAR course in the HSC. Curriculum dance at Barker is a new elective choice for students, with the current Year 10 students from the inaugural class in 2022. This term, Year 9 is focused on the significance of social and cultural dance as well as the historical development of techniques such as Classical Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre and Modern dance through studying influential dance pioneers in both theory and practical lessons. Year 10 studied the influential choreographer Alvin Ailey, where they are focusing on performance and appreciation content through applying critical analysis skills to interpret movement choices and expression in their theory and practical lessons.

Year 9 and 10 Dance students thoroughly enjoyed the ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’ and have provided some reflections on their experience at the performance.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to watch the ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’. The performances shown were vastly different but all beautifully choreographed and executed in their own way. It was inspiring to see the stories shown and worlds created in a dance piece with immense thought and emotion behind every move. I hope to be able to pursue my passion for dance into the HSC and create a piece of my own.” -

Zara

“Going to the ‘2022 HSC Dance Call Back’ was a great experience. Some dances required a lot of creativity and playing with sounds, while others included lots of technical components. It was interesting to see how different people express various ideas and stories through dance. We can’t wait to create our own dance compositions.” - Alicia and Mimi

Rachael Tait-Owens Curriculum Dance and PDHPE Teacher

Rowing Camp

Barker Rowers and Coaches headed to the ACT in mid-January for the Annual Rowing camp.

Black Mountain Rowing Club was our base for the week, providing access to smooth water on Lake Burley Griffin. The Rowing Club is located at Black Mountain Peninsula which, like so many areas in Canberra, is an open parkland and recreation area. The location proved ideal for both on water and dry land training. A running loop, with hills for shuttle runs up and back was testing in the dry heat. While the open grassed area was ideal for core and strength exercises. Being lakeside it was then only a short walk to the lake to cool off, which was welcomed often.

The rowers alternated between two and three training sessions per day. A three session day looked like this:

• 5.30am Rise & Snack

• 6.30am – 9.30am On Water Rowing/Dry Land Training Session 1

• 10.00am Breakfast

• 10.30am – 1.00pm On Water Rowing/Dry Land Training Session 2

• 1.30pm Lunch

• 2.00pm – 3.00pm REST

• 3.30pm – 6.00pm On Water Rowing/Dry Land Training Session 3

A two training session day gave the rowers recovery time and allowed for a fun activity like Mini Golf. The skill crossover from rowing to golf remains to be seen. Senior rowers entertained the squad with ‘sock’ awards at the end of the week recounting funny moments, comments and acknowledging effort. The camp was a real highlight. It was amazing watching the team share their highs and lows and working together to form a bond and respect. Camps are important for not only developing sporting skills but also for developing personal and team skills. This camp certainly ticked all those boxes.

Kylie Mildren Secondary School Sport Coordinator

Alumni Profile

John Blaxland (Class of 1981) is Professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies in the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre (SDSC), Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, College of Asia and the Pacific at the Australian National University (ANU).

John is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales. John has previously been a Chief Intelligence Staff Officer (J2) at HQ Joint Operations Command, defence attaché to Thailand and Myanmar, Head of SDSC and Director of the ANU Southeast Asia Institute. At ANU, he teaches “Honeypots and Overcoats: Australian Intelligence in the World” and supervises several PhD students.

John has written several books on military history and intelligence with his latest “Revealing Secrets: An Unofficial History of Australian Signals Intelligence and the Advent of Cyber” to be released on 1 May 2023.

What has been your career path since leaving Barker?

After taking a gap year and travelling around Europe with, at various stages, classmates

Jonathan Cox and Andrew Alexander, I went to Duntroon to start a 28 year career in the Australian Army. A few years later I was awarded a first class honours degree in history and

my sub-thesis was subsequently published. That then gave me a huge buzz and set me off on a path of researching and writing books and papers on military and intelligence affairs. The Army also sent me off to its language school where I learnt to speak Thai. That led to a couple of fascinating postings in Thailand and Myanmar. My pinnacle experience was being the Australian brigade intelligence officer deployed to East Timor for the Australian led international intervention in September 1999. There many of the skills I had learnt along the way were put to good use, helping to ensure the crisis did not degenerate further. In my late 30s I completed a PhD in Canada, where I compared how Canada and Australia used military forces in support of the United Kingdom and the United States during the 20th century. It was published in 2006 as Strategic Cousins (www.mqup.ca/strategiccousins-products-9780773530355. php) A couple of years later, I was invited to apply for a job at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre at the Australian National University to help Professor David Horner write a multi-volume

history of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). I got the job and that then set me off on my second career as an academic – a path I have been following for the last 12 years. Have you always been passionate about writing?

I always enjoyed researching and writing. At school I gradually improved my writing at the hands of teachers like Mr Golsby Smith (English), Mr Veitch and Mr Rowling (Ancient History), Mr Braga and Mr Mansfield (Modern History). While I was in the Army writing and researching was a hobby, but eventually my hobby became my occupation. How good is that!

What inspires your book topics and what is the process from concept to publication?

I like to write on topics relating to my life experience – hence the focus on military history, international security and intelligence affairs. I particularly like to think and write about such issues for their contemporary relevance. My sense is we can all do with a more historically-

informed take on current affairs. It is that space, between history and contemporary issues with which I like to engage in public debate. My studies certainly inform the approach I take to contemporary public commentary.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Barker?

I have too many fond memories of my time at Barker to settle on just one. I loved performing in drama and musicals at school (including acting alongside Mr Kefford in a Gilbert & Sullivan musical). The best fun I had was playing John the Baptist in Godspell under the direction of Mr Kingsford-Smith. I was honoured to have been appointed Vice Captain in my

year. Along with Jonathan Philips and Martyn Hood, edited The College Barker, the annual school magazine. The School also enabled me to undertake the gold Duke of Edinburgh award scheme which, along with my classmate Juliet Ward (nee Thomas), led to a visit to Buckingham Palace to meet in person the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, while on my gap year. Adventure Country camps feature prominently in my memories too (before the days of the Grange etc). These were organised by the old cadet master, Ian Campbell. I loved being in cadets, and really appreciated the effort put into that by Mr Campbell and Mr Cooper. In fact I loved it so much it inspired me to join the Army.

What advice would you like to share with current Barker students?

Barker presents an amazing array of opportunities to explore your interests and talents. Make the most of this precious opportunity, in sports, musicals, drama, cadets, adventurous and other social programs. You won’t regret it. Time may seem to pass slowly but you will look back and be amazed at how quickly time flew and how fond your memories turn out to be.

Preserving Archive

As the new year began, the final touches were being implemented in the reimagined archive space.

This year, we look to welcome more of our community to the Barker College of yesteryear, descending floor by floor to the secret underground cavern of the library to view the rich collection of records, photographs, textiles, and memorabilia stored in the archive and on display.

The disruption that COVID produced gave the Archives department time to think, plan, develop, and grow. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to care for the roughly 20,000 items in the collection over the past two years. Since 2020, the Archives have built on the solid foundations laid by previous archivists to:

• improve preservation and conservation practice

• grow and develop the collection, increasing accessibility and security

• streamline research, answering more queries, more efficiently; and

• collaborate with departments to streamline and centralise records throughout the School

Additionally, a great deal of effort has gone into decluttering the archive space to create more areas for storage, processing, researching, and display. In 2023 the Archive looks to include more of the community in our work, inviting past and current students to engage with the stories in our collection through events, volunteer programs, research initiatives, and classroom activities.

For more information about how you can get involved with the Archives, please contact Senior Archivist, Rachel Byrne on 02 8438 7299 or at archives@barker. nsw.edu.au. The Archive is open Monday to Friday 8am-4pm (including school holidays), by appointment.

Rachel Byrne Senior Archivist

Partnership for the Future

One of the five pillars of the Foundation’s Strategic Plan is to build on the goodwill and the relationships that the School has with its community. It is through these strong and enduring relationships, that we look to our community to partner with us for the future.

During the week of the exceptional Les Misérables Musical, the Foundation was delighted to be able to host members of the original Barker cast and crew from the 2006 Les Mis production. In addition to hosting two of the leads from 2006 – Fantine and Eponine – we were pleased to also have members who performed in the orchestra, make-up assistants, as well as other members of this original cast. The evening was an opportunity for each of our guests to hear from the Director, Phillip Heath, Assistant Director, Emma Scarlis, as well as Musical Director, Peter Ellis, about this year’s production and to share what has (and hasn’t) changed since Les Mis was first performed at the School 17 years ago. Foundation events such as these, are designed to keep us all connected and to positively encourage us to reflect upon our own personal experience, to hopefully inspire a lifelong connection to Barker.

Welcoming New Directors

In 2023, we welcome two new Directors to our Foundation board. Victoria Grimes is a current parent and brings a wealth of experience to the Foundation as a philanthropy and major gifts fundraising specialist. With a background in PR & marketing communications for corporates in

both the UK and Australia, she has worked across multiple sectors including FMCG, health, education, churches & community fundraising, and international development. She is currently Deputy Director of Development in Advancement at the University of Sydney, responsible for overseeing the development of philanthropic gifts to support medical research and education.

Marie-Clare Elder graduated from Barker in 1996 and is a Partner at Wotton & Kearney. She has extensive experience in health, medical negligence and personal injury litigation and had practised in Australia and the United Kingdom in senior in-house roles. Marie-Clare is also a former clinical nurse specialist in intensive care.

She is passionate about mental health and wellbeing for clients, employees and the community. In 2018 she was appointed to the Board of The Banksia Project and in 2020 the Board of Waves of Wellness. Both are charities which focus on mental wellness.

Each of the Foundation Directors give generously of their intelligent energy and time in helping to grow Barker’s future, for which I am eternally grateful.

Chair

John Slack-Smith Foundation

The Foundation’s role is to work with the School to ensure the fabric of Barker stays strong now and into the future.

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

Angus Abadee (07)

0433 108 525

Honorary Vice-President

Emily Tutt (09)

0426 751 165

Honorary Treasurer

Andrew Hassall (86)

0412 610 434

Assistant Honorary Treasurer

Benjamin Ho (09)

Honorary Secretary

Josh Grace (90)

Assistant Honorary Secretary

Anna Sutton (05)

General Committee

Vanessa Bennett (91)

Georgia Breckenridge (18)

Gemma Dywer (Davies 09)

Declan Flaherty (16)

Anthony Hearne (90)

Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78)

Lachie Lloyd (18)

Nominee to School Council

David Trayner (84)

OBA Ambassador

Chris Russell (70)

OBA Annual Patron

Sandy Hollway (64)

OBA Seniors Contact

Ian Pont (63) oba@barker.nsw.edu.au

OBA Support for Life https://landing.mymirror.com.au/old-barkerassociation

School Contacts

Director of Alumni and Community Relations

Karina Drummond (02) 8438 7283 kdrummond@barker.nsw.edu.au

Archives

Rachel Byrne (02) 8438 7290 archives@barker.nsw.edu.au

Events Manager

Julie Fitzpatrick (02) 8438 7240 events@barker.nsw.edu.au

Interstate and International Barker Contacts

Adelaide Lane Hinchcliffe (00) 0412 130 935 (m) lane@lkggroup.com.au

Brisbane

Andrew Wilkie (01)

0412 779 383 (m) andrew.wilkie@morgans.com.au

Canberra

Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281 (m) as.mccoll@icloud.com

Jeremy Talbot (16) 0429 408 284 jeztalbot111@gmail.com

Melbourne

Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407 (m) murray@capricorngroup.net.au

Newcastle

Nicholas Bedggood (88) 0410 565 101 (m) nickbedggood@yahoo.com.au

Northern Rivers

Jim Poulos (61) 0413 087 412 pamio@bigpond.net.au

Perth

Gus Elliot (92) 0416 298 774 (m) gus.elliot14@gmail.com

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

Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au

Canada, Ontario George Darling (70) gdarling@sandstormgold.com

Hong Kong

Vacant

Japan

Carl Bastian (93) carl@rwo.okinawa

Middle East David Baker (85) +965 9950 1657 drwbaker2002@yahoo.co.uk

New Zealand

Vacant

Oceania (Fiji)

Neil Underhill (75) (679) 336 3968 (w) neilunderhill@connect.com.fj

Papua New Guinea Johnson Kalo (83) (675) 305 6703 (w) jhnsnka03@gmail.com

Singapore Carly Switzer (94) carlyswitzer@yahoo.com.au

UK, London

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

USA, East Coast New York

Alex Skellet (94) (917) 251 3361 (h) alexandraskellet@gmail.com

USA, West Coast Phoenix, Arizona

Digby Cook (56) (623) 523 4321 (h) digbyhcook@gmail.com

OBA President’s Message

The Old Barker Association is particularly excited about the opportunities the year holds for us and for you and your families.

As we start the new year, we are also focused on delivering on our Strategic Goals:

• enhance opportunities for members to strengthen their connection with each other and other members of the School community,

• continue to deliver a comprehensive Support for Life program,

• strengthen our relationship with the School by supporting initiatives that enhance student and staff experiences at Barker,

• ensure that the OBA has a sustainable financial strategy and comprehensive governance approach. We are counting down the days until our first networking and mentoring event for 2023, which will provide our members the chance to hear about the OBA’s bespoke mentoring platform that will allow members to come together and meet other likeminded members, learn from each other and on the night have a drink and bite to eat together. More details will be sent out about our 2023 calendar of events, and I’d encourage you to attend at least one – particularly those who have not had the chance to be part of one of our events in the past.

In 2023 we are looking forward to trialling new programs and events, as well as maintaining our much cherished programs such as Support for Life and our

affiliates programs, which has welcomed OBA Robotics and OBA Volleyball to the fold. Make sure to try something new and let us know what other offerings you would like us to explore in 2023.

We have already welcomed the School back for 2023 and I was lucky enough to be invited to welcome the new Year 7 students, where the OBA presented all students with a training shirt. This is always one of the best moments of the year, with the kids so excited to be meeting each other, finding new friends and getting something together that they will treasure for years ahead. Already some of the kids are swapping stories of using their brother or sisters’ shirts when they get bigger!

These moments remind me of how amazing it is to have an alumni organisation that has a close connection with the School it represents. Barker has always made a concerted effort to ensure that our members have an enduring relationship with the current school, and 2023 will be a year filled with Back to Barker sports days, reunions, student mentoring and OBA Seniors visits.

Good luck to the entire Barker community for the year ahead – I hope it is filled with opportunity and abundance!

Angus Abadee (07) OBA President

To all members of the Barker Community, I hope you had a restful, relaxing and joyous holiday break, and come into 2023 recharged and refocused for the year ahead.

The Class of 2022

We are excited to welcome the Class of 2022 to the Old Barker Association (OBA), an organisation which focuses on providing member services catering to all the varied interests and activities of Barker’s Alumni.

The OBA offers many opportunities to explore including:

• Joining one of the OBA Affiliate Groups – there are many to choose from including Sport, Music, Theatre, Christian Fellowship and Agriculture (see the following pages to see which are of interest)

• Special events and activities such as the annual OBA golf day

• Social events in regional areas, interstate and overseas

• Year group reunions

• Professional mentoring for career advice, options, experiences and opportunities

• Networking events

• OBA Support for Life – a free service available to all Alumni and their families

Communication

To keep up to date with the latest OBA events and news we invite you to:

• Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ barkercollegealumni or Instagram

• Connect with us on LinkedIn 'Official Barker College Alumni'

• Access the Alumni Networking Directory via the OBA website - www.oba.net.au

• OBA Support for Life https://landing.mymirror.com. au/old-barker-association

For any questions or suggestions please contact:

Karina Drummond

Director

of

Alumni & Community Relations

Phone: 02 8438 7283

Email: kdrummond@barker.nsw.edu.au

Reflections from ViceCaptains Jess O’Bryan and Yue Hun Chia.

Favourite Memory at Barker?

When I reflect on my time at Barker, a single favourite memory doesn’t come to mind. Instead I think about a collection of moments that are very meaningful to me. Some of these include rehearsing and performing in Rhodes, Leslie and BCMA stages as part of Barker drama, particularly throughout our Year 11 play Metamorphoses, our musical Beauty and the Beast and for in-class drama projects. I reflect on running as part of the cross country and athletics teams, especially the encouragement from my peers which kept me motivated even when I wanted to give into my exhaustion. I laugh about the countless afternoons I stood chatting with my friends at the top of Bowman, oblivious to the fact that all the other students had gone home and an hour had somehow passed. Speaking at Valedictory dinner is my final special memory at Barker. It was the last time I addressed my cohort as their vice captain and I couldn’t have been more proud of my peers for finishing school and how much they had grown along the way - Jess.

My favourite memory from my time at Barker would have to be Year 10 Adventure camp. I still remember hiking up Mount Kosciuszko in the pouring rain and belting hail, which seemingly did not have an end. Every other group turned back, but our Head of House told us to keep going as we had already gone so far. Near the summit, the hail just got too heavy and we were all forced to clump together in one bathroom. We all laugh about it and joke about it today. It formed one of the most binding experiences any of us had ever endured - Yue-Hun.

Who would you like to thank?

Firstly, Phillip Heath for his guidance of me, especially in my leadership year. I am so grateful for his support and encouragement and will forever be in awe of the way he speaks to every student and makes them feel known. Secondly, to Matthew Macoustra, Natalie Potent and David Giltrap. Much of their hard work is behind the scenes and most people wouldn’t know, but they keep Barker running seamlessly and always brightened my days with a smile and a chat. Thirdly, to the Drama department for offering a space where I could be creative, loud and truly myself. In particular, thank you to Claire Yeomans for lifting the spirits of my Year 11 drama class by making us dance every morning on our teams call - Jess. My teachers were ultimately the foundation and bedrock of my time in high school, and I can never thank them enough. From answering my emails when the sun was setting, or answering my emails when the sun was rising, every teacher helped me build a comfortable classroom space where I could share my

ideas and also contribute to class discussions. Outside of the academic realm, all of them helped me become the best version of myself by pushing me and encouraging me along, which is something I will forever cherish - Yue-Hun.

Will you join an OBA group and if so, which one/s are of interest?

I plan to join numerous OBA groups and the main one of interest at the moment is the music group. I played clarinet all the way through high school but had to stop in Year 12 due to the lack of time available, but music has always been an extracurricular activity that has brightened my day. I miss the band rehearsals and one-on-one music sessions, and hope that I can relive these experiences in an OBA group! - Yue-Hun. I do plan to join an OBA group and am very interested about the drama one! - Jess.

Life Beyond Barker

Yvonne Low (Class of 1979) is an award-winning fine artist, writer and illustrator. She writes picture books, poetry and junior fiction and creates illustrations for the children’s publishing industry.

Yvonne’s Welcome to Barker book (originally published by Barker in 2011) has recently been updated and is being sent with a cute soft toy to new bubs of Alumni, as they are welcomed into the Barker Lion Cub Club.

Have you always been passionate about writing and art?

I’m passionate about all things creative – theatre, dance and choreography, music, visual arts and crafts, film, poetry, writing…

I loved drawing from a very young age and continued to dabble throughout school and beyond. I’m largely self-taught, taking art classes and workshops through the years, rather than any formal art college training.

What has been your journey since finishing at Barker in 1979?

I didn’t know what I wanted to do at uni. I ended up with a BA (Macquarie University) majoring in Mandarin and German, then a

Graduate Diploma (Secretarial Studies) at CCAE (now University of Canberra). Because I was interested in the performing arts and foreign languages and culture, I found myself serendipitously involved in both areas, working as a travel consultant with World Travel Headquarters (GSA) and in administration at Sydney Dance Company and QEII Arts Council New Zealand. I also worked at Andersen Consulting in administration and marketing.

I discovered the joys of picture books with my kids and that was the impetus to return to my love of drawing and art, and creative writing. It was the start of my adventure and journey into children’s and adult trade publishing and the literary world.

Tell us about your work as a writer and illustrator.

I’m inspired by the beauty and drama of God’s natural world. I find the artform of picture books a fascinating genre in which to work. A picture book combines creativity and imagination with art and design skills, literary techniques, the need to consider the relationship and interaction between words and pictures, the ability to weave different layers of meaning into the artistic work as a whole and the ability to communicate with different age groups. I also enjoy writing poetry both for children and adults, and on occasion I present at schools as a writer/illustrator. I’m a Role Model with Books in Homes Australia, whom Barker supports (through its Indigenous fundraising program) and which is a great organisation promoting the love of books and supporting disadvantaged schools throughout Australia.

Working as a freelancer in the arts does of course have its challenges – I’ve learnt you need loads of perseverance, patience, selfmotivation and optimism. It's certainly a long game.

Children’s publishing is however a very rewarding industry to be part of. It’s wonderful to be helping promote the love of books, art and reading and the value of creativity and the imagination. With the ongoing pandemic, especially during the periods of lockdown, I think we all realised how important the arts are in sustaining our souls and lifting our spirits, and books are a vital part of that.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Barker?

We were only the fourth year of the intake of girls at Barker, so I think it was still a novelty for us girls and we felt rather special! I particularly enjoyed trying something new including the sport of fencing, and I loved the

performing arts opportunities, performing in the musicals ‘L’il Abner’, Menotti’s ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors’ (which I helped to choreograph) and ‘Patience’. I continued this passion with years of on-stage performing and choreographing with Willoughby and Chatswood Musical Societies. Barker’s trip to China in 1978 was amazing – we were one of the first school groups from Australia to visit China post Mao’s death. It was fascinating for me to go back again a few years later as a university student and study there briefly. I was blessed to be in a great cohort at Barker. Numerous of my gifted year group have forged brilliant careers and are an inspiration, including David Astle and Mark Tredinnick.

Do you have any advice for today’s Barker students?

Don’t worry if you can’t work out what you’d like to do, post-school. Follow your interests and passions,

develop those skills and you’ll likely find yourself working in a rewarding area that you never even imagined. It can feel daunting to not initially have a clear career path ahead, but this can also be liberating. You’ll be open to more opportunities as they come along. Embrace the adventure!

Sometimes you have to go outside your comfort zone, but those experiences will help you grow and will often open up opportunities later for you. It’s also never too late to learn, stretch yourself and try something new! I’m currently exploring the artform of graphic novels, as part of developing my own graphic novel/picture book project, for which I won an Australian Society of Authors/ Copyright Agency Mentorship Award in 2021. The journey continues!

www.yvonnelow.com

Magpie (The School Magazine, Countdown Issue No.10, Nov 2022)

Illustration from The Fastest Ship in Space (written by Pamela Freeman, illustrated by Yvonne Low, Christmas Press)

‘Splash! Whale watching – but who is watching who?’ © Yvonne Low

OBA Groups

Old Barker Football Club

Article Warning – the italics section of the Old Barker Football Club update was written by ChatGPT.

Coach Judd returns to kick start the men’s division two squad promotion run, having moved the goal post for success in 2023 to a top two finish. At this stage of the game, the 035’s squad looks to be playing out of their league in 2023, having been promoted from division three to division two.

OBA North Shore Wind Symphony

It’s been a big start to the year for Old Barker Association’s North Shore Wind Symphony (NSWS), kicking off with an open rehearsal and dinner at Pennant Hills Bowling Club in late January. Since then, NSWS has been preparing repertoire for the National Band Championships in Newcastle held over the Easter break. Entering into the Open A Grade competition, NSWS will be performing a range of pieces including a march, hymn, Australian music and own choice. Prior to the competition NSWS held a concert at Barker College on 25 March 2023. Throughout the year, NSWS will continue to hold regular performances both at Barker and in the community.

To stay in touch with events and band updates, please follow them on Facebook at North Shore Wind

Not wanting to get them offside, a shout out to the division four men, masters of both tiki taka and total football.

The club got the ball rolling with pre-season commencing in January, focusing on the one percenter’s. While soccer might be a game of inches, football is a game of metric system measurement…

It’s been a long off-season for Old Barker FC.

While artificial intelligence might be coming for our cushy white-collar jobs, the football field remains a cauldron of emotions. For those looking to activate their lizard brain in a socially competitive environment, we’d love to see you down at training.

We have playing options for all abilities and ages.

www.oldbarkerfc.com

Matt Vickers (05)

Symphony or on Instagram as @ northshorewindsymphony

If you are, or know someone who plays a wind or percussion instrument, please get in touch with NSWS through the above social channels to join rehearsals.

These run on a Sunday afternoon in Boyce Hall at Barker.

Eleanor Brimblecombe

Old Barker Rugby

Season 2023 at Old Barker Rugby Club is almost upon us. Pre-season training has begun and the season proper kicks off early April. It’ll be an exciting year for the Club as we celebrate our 55th birthday. Firstly, thanks must go to our outgoing President, Karen Penrose (Collett 78), for an amazing term in charge of the Club. She has left a lasting legacy which must be acknowledged. Karen oversaw the opening our new Clubhouse at Turramurra Memorial Oval, with its greatly improved canteen, changeroom and storage facilities. Karen was also the driving force behind the introduction of the Women’s Sevens program at Old Barker Rugby Club, which has grown fantastically from its beginnings in 2019 to now in 2023 where we have two Women’s Sevens teams, with tournament results improving year after year, including a tournament victory or two and many finals appearances.

Congratulations must also go to our new Club President, Sam Northcott (08), who was voted in at our recent AGM. With a few new faces on the Committee, Sam is looking forward to continuing the positive strides made by the previous administration.

OBA Big Band

The OBA Big Band ended 2022 on a high note. At the OBA Dinner we performed the iconic jazz album Kind of Blue (1959) by Miles Davis in its entirety! Since then the band has made a conscious decision to focus heavily on improvisation. Due to the vulnerability surrounding improvisation, many of our members avoided it during their teenage years. Since joining the OBA Big Band, these members have a new-found love for improvising and have embraced the freedom of the technique.

On the field, season 2022 was a challenging time for the Men’s and Colts programs with the heavy rainfalls of early 2022 and the hangover of COVID interruptions of previous years causing delays to training and difficulties in recruitment. Despite these challenges the results were very pleasing. 1st grade had a strong season against some quality opposition and made it the Finals where they performed admirably. 2nd grade and Colts had encouraging seasons despite not making finals. Player numbers grew from the previous season and strong numbers attended training week after week whilst on field the teams were competitive with close losses a factor in not making finals. Season 2023 is looking very promising, with increased numbers committing to training, and our move down to Division 3 of the Subbies Rugby competition meaning we can push for Finals in all grades and have a strong chance of winning Premierships.

If anyone is interested in joining Old Barker Rugby Club for season 2023, we welcome all enquiries for Players, Coaches and Managers for our Grade, Colts, and Women’s programs. Email enquiries to bobrufcpresident@gmail.com or bobrufcsecretary@gmail.com. Or

come on down to the ground to watch some great rugby action during the year, and you never know, you might end up running in to an old face or two. The draw will be available soon on our website www.oldbarkerrugby.com

Bring on Season 2023!

Nick Eagleton (92) www.oldbarkerrugby.com

Recently we've focused on the iconic jazz album Time Out (1959) by Dave Brubeck. We hope to perform this album in its entirety at our many performances later in the year. In the meantime, our most recent album is currently being mixed and mastered by members in the band. You can listen to other recordings and find out more at www.OBABigBand.com

Luke Davis (09)

Old Barker Robotics

Up and Running - Calling all

The formation of the Old Barker Robotics (OBR) Club was formally approved by the Old Barker Association during the committee meeting last November. We are extremely excited to be officially part of the OBA community and are looking forward to being an integral part of the life of Robotics at Barker and beyond. OBR will be supporting the range of robotics teams within the School as well as fielding teams of Alumni students in post-school competitions. OBR is not just about robots, we actively seek to support Science, Technology and Engineering both at Barker and in support of alumni in their careers beyond the Mint Gates.

Since formal affiliation things for OBR have been moving very quickly – The new Barker Robotics facility has provided a dedicated Robotics alumni fellowship lounge and work area – it’s already been expanded to include a Nespresso coffee machine (thanks Mark)!

On the competitive front the recent robotics team school leavers were hoping to compete in a December 2022 competition called VexU, however, time constraints meant that we weren’t able to get a robot onto the field this year. We are hoping to compete in other competitions going into the future.

2023 is set to be an exciting and busy year for robotics at Barker and the OBR has hit the ground running with more than 35 exstudents who have signed up and are now mentoring the current robotics program from the Junior School through to the Senior School (as well as Darkinjung, Ngarralingayil and Dhupuma campuses). With increased student numbers doing Robotics at Barker (there are over 650 students registered for 2023) there is a lot going on. We are hoping OBR’s efforts will take some pressure off our tireless robotics leaders Jeser and Daiane Becker.

With the new year also comes a new FRC (First Robotics Competition) season. The FRC program is like the Firsts, in sporting parlance, for robotics. Students in Years 10 through to 12 build a robot to compete in 3 a-side teams on a specialised basketball sized field (for information about the First Robotics program and FRC see www.firstinspires.org/robotics/frc website). This year’s competition is called “Charged Up”. OBR started the year strongly with 15 alumni turning out for the start of the FRC Build season to help build the full sized FRC field while the students studied the competitions 140 plus page manual.

the focus quickly turned to mentoring team members (Team 4613: The Barker Readbacks) in disciplines such as engineering, electronics, pneumatics and programming as they design and build their competition robot. This involvement will continue as the team competes in tournaments scheduled in Australia, Canada, Turkey and the USA over March, April and May. To follow the team’s progress see their Facebook page www.facebook.com/

barkercollegerobotics for updates

As you can see robotics is a big movement at Barker – so much on, so much to do!

Sounds like fun? Well, OBR membership is open to any Barker alumni. You do not have to have been part of the robotics program. If you work in the areas of IT, technology or engineering or even if you are interested in supporting the program as a volunteer –please contact us at oldbarkerrobotics@gmail.com

OBA Christian Fellowship

The OBACF wrapped up 2022 with our annual Christmas Drinks at the Blue Gum Hotel. We were lucky to be joined by a range of year groups as well as some new faces and some partners. It is great to see the OBACF network expanding and cross-generational connections being made.

Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for upcoming events and reach out to any friends that might be interested in joining the fellowship!

Old Barker Association Theatre Group

The Old Barker Alumni Theatre Company is launching another big year with our announcement of performance dates for 2023. We are looking for thespians, theatrophiles, stage addicts, performers, producers, playwrights, and the like to be a part of OBAT this year!

Do you have an itch for the stage, the green room, or the tech box that you need to scratch? Are you curious about being a part of stage productions?

OBA Seniors

If you graduated from Barker 50 years ago you are now a member of The Old Barker Association Seniors. This is a social group who organise a number of events each year. We look forward to seeing you at our next OBA Seniors event.

If you would like further information, please contact the Alumni and Community Relations Office on (02) 8438 7283 or oba@ barker.nsw.edu.au

Ian Pont (63) Honorary Secretary

The OBACF aims to offer an opportunity for the multigenerational network of Barker Alumni to meet, connect and encourage one another in their faith journeys. We would love to grow our network even more. If you are interested in joining, please join our Facebook Group by private messaging Georgia Breckenridge (18) or contact Karina Drummond kdrummond@barker.nsw.edu.au

Georgia Breckenridge (18)

Or are you looking for a new pastime that isn’t staring at a screen for hours on end? If your answer to any of these is yes or maybe, OBAT could be for you!

After a highly successful return to the Barker stage in 2022, OBAT is back and excited to welcome new faces to this year’s performances.

Key Dates:

Thursday 22 June to Saturday 24 June – OBAT Performance Nights at Barker College

To keep up to date with everything OBAT or for any enquiries, go to our Facebook or Instagram pages.

www.facebook.com/oba.theatre

www.instagram.com/oba.theatre

Adam Roberts (14)

OBA Ag Society

The inaugural gathering of the OBA Agriculture Society occurred recently at The Union Hotel in North Sydney. It was great to see the familiar faces of past Barker students who have graduated from Agriculture at school and gone on to a related degree and career in this important sector. It was an excellent evening sharing stories of what everyone has been up to since school, what they have learnt along the way and where they are at in their careers. All agreed that a group such as this is important and that nothing similar exists in the agriculture sector, bringing metropolitan professionals with a

OBA Support for Life

Access free mental health support as a Barker Alumni.

This year has shown us that taking care of our communities and our collective wellbeing is of absolute importance. New challenges have relied on resilience, connection, and developing skills to cope with changes. In the interest of being there for you on your journey beyond being a Barker student we want to offer you support for your mental wellbeing.

Support for Life, an initiative of the Old Barker Association that has been running for the past three years, has recently

career in agriculture together to share their experiences. We are planning on having around two events per year moving forward, with future events likely having a

prominent guest speaker in the agriculture sector to get thinking and discussion going that will help professional development of all involved.

Scott Graham Head of Agriculture

partnered with My Mirror online psychology to provide access to three videoconferencing sessions with an experienced psychologist at no cost to you. My Mirror is a leader in “online” mental health care and provides access to skilled professionals of many demographics with focused specialisation in critical areas such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, substance abuse, career difficulties and so much more.

My Mirror psychology sessions can be accessed from the comfort of home or from any device up to 21 hours a day, 7 days a week. These sessions are available to anyone feeling like they would benefit

from talking to someone to get on track with how they are feeling and navigating life's challenges. You do not require a mental health diagnosis to access or benefit from My Mirror sessions. My Mirror psychologists use evidence-based strategies to help you build skills and strategies for resilience and agency in your life.

For more information and details on how to access these sessions please see link: https://landing. mymirror.com.au/old-barkerassociation

The entire Barker community is all in this together.

Talk to an online psychologist today

Old Barker Association is supporting you with 3 sessions with My Mirror online psychologist.

Alumni Mentoring Program

By connecting inspirational alumni leaders and entrepreneurs with aspirational mentees, the platform creates a sense of belonging, fosters a culture of shared learning, and unlocks personal and professional growth opportunities. We kicked off the launch with a webinar for Mentors to learn how to use the platform followed by a session for Mentees.

What sets this program apart is its use of AI to suggest mentor-mentee matches through the Mentor Cloud platform. This ensures that mentees are paired with mentors who have the right skills, expertise, and experience to help them achieve their goals. With mentors from around the globe and across industries already signed up on the platform, the opportunities for mentees to learn from the best in their field are unparalleled.

Mentoring is a powerful tool that can inspire and motivate both mentors and mentees. By participating in the Barker Alumni Mentoring program, alumni mentors can use their wealth of knowledge and experience to help fellow alumni navigate their careers and achieve success. Mentees, on the other hand, can gain access to valuable insights, network with industry leaders, and open doors to new opportunities.

In addition to the platform, we will be running virtual and in-person events in 2023. Our next virtual session will be speed mentoring on Thursday 11 May 2023. Our first in-person event will be held on the same night.

There's no better time to register your interest in the program. By doing so, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources to assist with your mentoring relationship, including mentorship opportunities and a recorded webinar that provides more information on the program. Don't miss out on this chance to take your career to the next level - register today https://oba. net.au/alumnimentoring to unlock your access to alumni mentorship.

The Barker Alumni Mentoring program launched in late February and is a game-changer for young graduates and professionals looking for mentorship to grow in their careers.

Community Events

Canberra Event

On Friday 2 December 2022, the Barker Community Canberra Event was held at The Commonwealth Club with Alumni from the Class of 1951 through to the Class of 2016 attending. Thank you to Andrew McColl (74) for hosting this and many events over the past two decades. He has now passed the baton to Jeremy Talbot (16) who is happy to share the role of local contact for future events.

Class of 1986 – 35 + 1 Year Reunion

After a year’s delay due to the spicy cough, the Class of 1986 had a fabulous night catching up and celebrating at the Greengate Hotel on 16 November 2022.

After the initial “hey, I remember you”, the venue became filled with broad smiles, warm hugs and happy reminiscing.

As the evening progressed, the room swelled to 60 people and became a wonderfully loud orchestra of joyous stories and happy laughter; overlaid by some banger 80’s tunes from our amazing DJ, Nathan Heinrich.

Everyone loved the little mixed lolly bags being handed around, a throw-back to popping into the corner store at Waitara Station on the way home from school.

Lynette Fejo travelled down from Darwin and kept us enthralled with her fascinating experiences as a senior aboriginal woman of the Saltwater People. Many of us are keen to go “on Country” with Lynette and experience aboriginal culture and celebrations with her later in the year.

A huge thank you to everyone for making it such a fabulous night, especially Gaille Smith, Jodie Eliott and Karina Drummond, who helped make it such a memorable evening!

Can’t wait for our 40th!

Mark Cooper

Community Events

Class of 1961 Christmas Lunch

Eleven 1961 leavers and a number of wives and partners attended the annual ‘61 Christmas lunch at the home of Michael and Valeria Noyce at Wahroonga. Phil and Julie Benjamin flew down from Caloundra QLD, Bruce and Jenny Higham drove from Gunnedah and Brian and Ruth Wilshire drove from Maitland. The ‘chefs’ were Bob Green and Bruce Higham and those toasting ‘good health’ were Bruce Higham, Phil Benjamin and Geoff Cooper. A lovely day with much reminiscing and ‘tall’ stories and it was nice to see a number of day boys catching up with the boarders!

Class of 2017 – 5 Year Reunion

In November 2022, the Class of 2017 got together for our very first Reunion - 5 Years! It was lovely to reconnect and overcome once held friend groups and circles, coming together as one to hear about the travel adventures, study stories, and first ‘real’ job experiences. I’m happy to report the year truly is thriving after COVID and taking on all life has to offer, as Barker taught us to do so well.

Lennox Head Lunch

An informal gathering of a few “old Barker students” enjoyed lunch together at Lennox Head near Ballina on 10 November 2022.

Alumni attending were: Graham Lawson (62), Robert Raymond (62), Jim Poulos (61), Dick Ash (62), Phil Bailey (62), Tim Hoyle (67).

Savannah Brown (Hughes)

Standing L to R - Angus Collins, Brian Wilshire, Geoff Chambers, Phil Benjamin, Geoff Cooper, Bob Green, Tony Smith-White. Sitting L to R - Gordon Cooper, Bruce Higham, Michael Noyce, John Meagher.

Class of 1958 + 1959 Reunion

On Saturday 11 February, 42 spry octogenarians gathered at The Blue Gum Hotel for their 65 year reunion, a great result considering our diminishing numbers and the tyranny of distance for many. Nonetheless, some came from the bush, Victoria, Queensland and as far as Canada. Many were the happy memories shared in a most convivial atmosphere.

Bill Manning and Richard Walsh both spoke entertainingly leading up to the proposal of the toast to the School. Perhaps the yarn of the day came from Richard Walsh, told against himself. Richard, because of his diminutive stature and the danger he thus represented to the eyesight of other cadets when marching with rifle at slope arms position, had been

Les Misérables Preview Performance

OBA Seniors, members of OBA Theatre and alumni from the cast & crew of the Beauty & the Beast musical in 2022 were invited to attend a special preview performance of Les Misérables on Sunday 12 February 2023.

The guests were treated to a Director’s insight to the production by Head of Barker, Phillip Heath, before enjoying this year’s fabulous Musical.

appointed Quartermaster, out of sight, out of mind. With the approach of the annual cadet ceremonial parade, his marching represented a threat to the military precision expected. Moreover the reviewing dignitary was a WW II, knighted Major General. What to do with Richard? Solution, he would greet the great man as he arrived in his limo.

The great moment arrived. Richard stepped forward, flung open the door and smartly saluted the lowly driver who emerged. The great man stepped out, unaided and ungreeted from the other side of the limousine.

What price a 70-year reunion?

Paul McCarthy

Class of 1990 – 30 Year Reunion

After two years of failed attempts, the Class of 1990 were able to celebrate their 30-year reunion at the Greengate on 21 October 2022. A great night was had by all who attended.

Nathan Deveson

Perth Event

The Barker Community in Perth met at Steve’s Bar & Café in Nedlands on Friday 2 December 2022, with many regulars attending. Alumni ranged from the Class of 1968 through to the Class of 1992. Thank you to Gus Elliot (92) who organised this event as well as previous ones.

Southern Highlands Event

On Saturday 3 December 2022, alumni from the Southern Highlands joined the Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath and Barker's Director of Alumni & Community Relations, Karina Drummond, for lunch at the Ethos Restaurant at Links House. A lovely afternoon with alumni sharing stories from their time at Barker and beyond the Mint Gates.

Personal Notes

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Nick Foran (03) is based in Los Angeles and works in the live entertainment industry as a technical director and trainer. Nick also does light, sound and projection design. He is pursuing a screen acting career and has been privileged to receive an acting scholarship at the highly respected Stella Adler Academy of Acting.

John

is a

and recently flew with First Officer Rohan Flick (95) and found out that not only did they both attend Barker but that our sons were currently at the school as well, John’s son in year 10 and Rohan’s son in year 9.

William Sparling (04) published his second book, Soul Captains, late last year. It is a young adult book aimed at teenagers. The book explores the issues and challenges experienced by veterans and their families, including homelessness, mental health, the Afghanistan War, loss and the enduring legacy of the Anzac spirit.

Piper Duck (19) was awarded a Sportsperson of the Year Achievement Award at the 2023 Australia Day Snowy Valley Awards Night.

Rick Christie, Greg Horne, Tim Davis, Alan Caradus and Bruce Davis (all 74) enjoyed lunch together while Greg was in Australia to celebrate his father’s 90th birthday in Port Macquarie. Both Greg and his brother Stewart Horne (72) live in USA.

Bruce Davis (74) caught up with Ravi Underwood (84) who was celebrating Australia Day with his family in Pyrmont.

Pegler (86)

B787 Captain

Felicity French (Davis 01) enjoyed a January afternoon at Cremorne Point with her Canadian cousin Rowan Wick pitcher with the Major Baseball League team the Chicago Cubs.

Caesar Boehme (22) and Roy Cai (22) achieved outstanding results in the prestigious HTANSW (History Teachers’ Association of NSW) Extension History Essay Prize. In attaining first place in the Ancient Past category, Caesar investigated the historical debate surrounding The Huns and the Xiongnu people, enlisting academic experts for his research.

In the Australian history category, Roy gained second place for his exploration of the ways that European history can be integrated with Indigenous ways of knowing.

Baptisms

19 November 2022, Philippa and Imogen, daughters of Maddison and Christopher Alcock (06)

Australia Day Honours 2023

Phillip Noyce (68) has been appointed Officer of the Order of Australia for service to the arts as a film and television director, producer, and screenwriter.

Weddings in the Barker Chapel

14 January 2023, Jonathan Wood (15) married Lily Fowler. A large cohort of alumni attended the wedding with Michael Rajchert and Harry Phillips (both 15) the groomsmen. Dr Cunningham returned to play one last time on the Organ. Lily composed a number of the pieces played during the ceremony.

CAS Lawn Bowls

The CAS Lawn Bowls team is seeking new players. They play on the 3rd Sunday of each month between May to November at Mosman. Please contact alumni@barker.nsw.edu.au if you are interested in joining the team.

Lion Cub Club

We would love to welcome bubs of our alumni to the Lion Cub Club. Please contact the team at alumni@barker.nsw.edu.au who will send Yvonne Low’s ‘Welcome to Barker’ book and a cute soft toy for your little one.

Do you have news to share?

We are keen to hear about recent engagements, weddings, career updates and achievements, travels, community service, hobbies, sports and other community news. It’s a great way for alumni to stay connected!

Please send contributions to alumni@barker.nsw.edu.au

4 December 2022, Flynn Nathaniel Wilhelm, son of Hannah and William Wilhelm (10)

Lion Cub Barker CLub

Obituaries

Obituaries

In retirement, he played golf at Nelson Bay Country Club where he was a member. He also had a golf cart where he sold drinks and food on the weekends.

Whether it being at the Golf Club/ Course or at the Fingal Bay Surf Club he met many famous people, i.e. Russell Crowe, John Edrich the English Cricketer. The saying being ‘if you haven’t met “Brownie”, you haven’t been to Nelson Bay’.

Tony attended Manly West School then Barker College from 1953 to 1957 as a day boy together with his brother Berry, completing his Leaving Certificate in 1957.

At Junior School (Manly West) he was a brilliant runner, footballer and cricketer. He captained the NSW Primary Schools Rugby League Team in 1952, winning the Dally Messenger Trophy for the Best and Fairest Player at the carnival on the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

In Tony's first year at Barker, he unfortunately broke his leg badly and was unable to play football or participate in athletics again. He did however play in the 1st XI in 1956 and 1957 receiving his Colours. He was also the Schools Medium Boxing Champion in 1954. On leaving Barker, Tony joined the ANZ Bank, rising to Bank Manager, managing branches in the city, suburbs, Broken Hill, and finally finishing up as Bank Manager at Nelson Bay.

Tony married and had four children, Corrie, Luke, Clint and Brodie, who together with nine grandchildren survive him.

Tony passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the 7 May 2022 at Shoal Bay Nursing Home.

Berry Brown (56)

Reverend Peter George Carman (50) 1934 – 2022

him as a man. Peter also enjoyed sports during his time at Barker. He placed in Swimming and Athletics competitions, was Captain of the U14B XV Rugby team and in the U15B XV. In his final year at Barker he was the winner of the Welterweight Division in Boxing. Peter continued his connection to Barker over the years attending many reunions and OBA Seniors events (formerly Over 70s’ Club). A rich friendship lasting 78 years began at Barker when Peter and Warren Wilson met as 10 year old boys.

Peter was ordained into the Anglican ministry in 1960. After fourteen years of parish life and ten years of chaplaincy to juvenile offenders, Peter became the chaplain at St Vincents Hospital in Darlinghurst. Following his retirement in 1996, he continued with pastoral work at St Philips in York Street Sydney, some locum tenens, part-time and voluntary ministries.

During his life, Peter enjoyed many pastimes including surfing (on a body-board), tennis, golf, lawn bowls, and attending the opera, ballet and theatre with his wife Diana.

Peter Carman attended Barker College as a boarder from 1944 to 1950. A highlight of his time at Barker was his Confirmation in 1948. It was through Barker Chapel services that Peter came into the Christian faith which moulded

Peter, late of Wollstonecraft, died on 1 November 2022 and is survived by his wife Diana, sons Michael and Justin and their families. He was an adoring grandfather to his four grandchildren.

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Anthony (Tony) Conrad Berwick Brown (57) 1940 – 2022

Jeremy was born in Derby, England and emigrated to Australia when aged two years old with his parents and two siblings as Ten-Pound Tourists. He grew up in the family home in Turramurra and attended Barker from 1965 to 1972.

Jeremy’s twin Geoffrey and his father Charles Harold Corah (known as Harold”) also attended Barker - Geoffrey as a pupil from 1965 to 1973 and Mr Corah as a senior school Master between 1964 and 1975 teaching Commerce and Geography.

After leaving Barker Jeremy enjoyed working in a team at Telstra for over 30 years, whilst living in a flat in Hornsby. He never married and left no children.

Unfortunately Jeremy was diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy in his early 20s. There is no treatment for this disease and it progressively attacks muscle groups – usually starting with the legs and arms.

Undeterred Jeremy was a keen photographer and travelled extensively in his early years –including to Central Australia and Africa. Eventually he was confined to an electric wheel-chair, spending the first half of his life on his feet and the second half in his wheelchair.

Jeremy didn’t complain and lived independently all of his life. He was fortunate to have a dedicated team of carers helping him on a daily basis. Given that the average life expectancy for someone with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy is 47 years, Jeremy did extremely well to

live well into his 66th year. He died from complications arising from pneumonia which he contracted not long after fighting off a COVID infection. He was strong (and quietly stubborn!).

Jeremy’s funeral was conducted by his school-friend Michael Hopkins – who is ordained in the Anglican Church and is currently the Vicar of the Anglican Parish of Jika Jika (near Melbourne). The funeral was also attended by Barker old-boys Jim Collier and Andy Crane.

Both of Jeremy’s parents predeceased him – his father aged 66 years and his mother aged 94 years. He is survived by his brother Geoffrey (aged 66) and sister Elizabeth (aged 70).

Geoff Corah (73)

Ian Ronald Harrison (72) 1954 - 2022

Obituaries

Following completion of 6th Form and the Higher School Certificate in 1972, Ian was indentured as an apprentice Plumber at Hodgson and Lee, Artarmon. Upon completion of his trade qualifications at North Sydney Technical College, Ian became a Licenced Plumber, Drainer and Gasfitter in 1977. A move to the Upper Hunter Valley saw Ian work on the construction of the then new Bayswater Power Station and to be later employed as plumber on the nearby Packer pastoral holding, Ellerston. Ian ran his own Plumbing company and lived in Scone, Aberdeen and Muswellbrook. He played rugby for Scone and began club sailing again on Lake Liddell, sailing a Hobie Cat.

Ian retired in 2014 after 17 years working for the Muswellbrook Shire Council, having been a licenced Plumber for almost 40 years. A keen caravaner he travelled extensively throughout Australia with his favourite Nissan Patrol ute and cat Angel, staying frequently on a farm at Sofala.

Ian attended Barker from 1967 to 1972. Born in Brisbane. Ian’s parents, (his father worked for British Petroleum - BP), were transferred from Brisbane to Melbourne where Ian attended Doncaster State School. A further BP company transfer saw the family move to Sydney in 1966 to reside in Roseville with Ian enrolled in 1st Form at Barker the following year. Ian represented Barker Rugby and was a senior member of the Cadet Unit under Major Ian Campbell, holding the rank of Warrant Officer First Class and the unit’s RSM, plus an Adventure Training Award to his credit.

The family were keen dinghy sailors which saw Sundays taken up travelling from Roseville to Bayview on Pittwater to race at their sailing club, BYRA.

Ian passed away peacefully in Bathurst Hospital aged 68, on 24 December 2022 after a very short illness. Ian is survived by his son Christopher and brother Paul (71) Sadly missed by family and friends throughout the Upper Hunter and Sofala districts.

Paul Harrison (71)

Kim Clancy Jackson (73) 1955-2022

Kim passed away suddenly without warning over the weekend of 4/5 November in Sydney, from Haemopericardium.

Jeremy William Corah (74) 1956 - 2022

Obituaries

After spending some years in the NSW Public Service, Kim was awarded a disability pension, and went on the work in his parent’s light manufacturing business (C. C. Jackson P/L - die cutting forms) at Alexandria until its closure.

Kim was afflicted with a life-long intestinal issues, and the associated side-effects of medication, which resulted in multiple operations, both hip joints being replaced and planned shoulder joint surgery, all of which resulted in limited career, sporting and social opportunities.

Kim is survived by younger brother Mark (75) and elder brother Ian (71)

Mark Jackson (75)

George Desmond Wellesley (Des) Pain 1926 – 2023

‘about living life and helping our neighbours.’

Duty, adventure and love would define Des’s life. Des studied engineering at the University of Sydney and began his career at the Irrigation and Water Supply Commission of Queensland. Following a few years improving water supplies along stock routes, Des relocated to Newcastle for a job at the Hunter District Water Board. Newcastle may have been somewhat more cosmopolitan than the vast expanses of western Queensland, but his days in the outback would prove invaluable. It was thanks to a friend Des met sharing accommodation in Longreach that he would be introduced to a Newcastle family, who invited Des to a party early in 1951, where he would meet Nell Brian.

Des and Nell began courting; Des knew that he had found the love of his life. But Nell’s desire to pursue her career – having been one of the first women to graduate with a science degree from the University of Sydney – saw her initially decline Des’ proposal of marriage.

After returning to Australia, Des and Nell married in May 1956. They relocated to Cowra, where Des worked as the Council engineer, and a year later Nell gave birth to the first of four children. New roles followed in Wodonga and, in 1965, Canberra at the National Capital Development Commission, where he would rise to Chief Engineer. Des was a central figure during an era of significant expansion of Canberra, contributing to the construction of many new suburbs and even the High Court.

George ‘Des’ Pain attended Barker College from Year 2, in 1933, through to graduation in 1943. He was one of several Pain brothers to attend Barker, nicknamed ‘Mouse 3’, after his older brothers had earlier earned the moniker.

Des was a strong student, head prefect and an exceptional athlete – serving as captain of the First XI in cricket and vice captain of the First XV rugby team. His time at Barker would leave an enduring impression on him. As he wrote in a family history, ‘I cannot remember any time in my eleven years at Barker when I didn’t like going to school.’ He credited his education at Barker for many of the values he held dear throughout his life, particularly the influence of his Latin teacher, Mr Leslie or simply “the Boss”, who instilled in Des and his class-mates lessons

This did not deter Des, and when he heard that Nell was contemplating a trip to Europe, he decided he quite fancied the idea too. Des’s year in Europe in 1955 would leave a life-long legacy. Des and friends he made along the way travelled through England and continental Europe – touring in an old London taxi they had acquired for 30 pounds.

It was on this trip that Des’ pursuit of Nell came to fruition. Upon landing at Newcastle, England, following their drive around the continent, Des received a letter from Nell indicating that she had arrived in London. He swiftly travelled south and not long after, took Nell on an excursion to Oxford. While enjoying lunch on the lawn of one of Oxford’s picturesque parks, Des proposed a second time.

In the twilight of Des’ career, he combined work with travel – spending extensive time in Tanzania guiding the construction of its new purpose-built capital, Dodoma, and in China consulting for AusAid. As he transitioned into retirement, more travel followed –around Australia and the globe. Des was an active member of the community, particularly through Rotary, serving as president of both its Cowra and Woden branches. He also contributed to the Anglican church, instrumental in the construction of a new church in Curtin. He was passionate about woodwork, golf, photography and technology. Des organised many Barker class reunions and attended many Canberra dinners and OBA Seniors gatherings over the years. The passing of Nell in 2014 was a great blow to Des, following a loving marriage of almost six decades. But he showed great determination in adjusting to life without Nell, improving his cooking skills and cherishing the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. He passed away at a nursing home in Canberra, on the same day his father had died.

Des is survived by his daughters Susanna, Robyn and Kirsten, his daughter-in-law Wendy, and six grandchildren, Indi, Hamish, Kieran, Caitlin, Tara and Jemma.

Kieran Pender, (Grandson)

Milestone Reunions – Back to Barker Day

Saturday 16 September 2023

Alumni from the Classes of 2013, 2003, 1993, 1983, 1973 and 1963 are warmly invited to celebrate their milestone reunions at Barker College. This inaugural event is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with one another and see what has changed since your time at Barker.

SAVE THE DATE 1963 1973

Though the day will see multiple reunions at the School, rest assured each reunion will be held in its own space.

There will also be an opportunity to attend a Chapel service, visit the Archives and take a tour of the School.

We look forward to welcoming you back!

Barker Community Events 2023

Class Reunions

Milestone Reunions

Back to Barker Sat 16 Sep events@barker.nsw.edu.au

1973 – 50 Year Reunion

Sat 4 Nov

Ian Somerville somers@bigpond.net.au

Charlie Kamei Charles_kamei@hotmail.com

1974 – 50 Year Reunion

Date TBA (2024)

Bruce Davis davis.brucem@gmail.com

OBA Events

Committee Meetings

Wed 26 Apr

Wed 21 Jun

Wed 2 Aug (AGM)

Wed 13 Sep

Wed 15 Nov

OBA Golf Day

Tue 5 Sep

OBA Alumni Mentoring Platform Webinars

Thu 11 May + In-Person Event

Thu 3 Aug

Thu 2 Nov

OBA Events Contact Karina Drummond (02) 8438 7283 oba@barker.nsw.edu.au

OBA Seniors Events

Lunch at Hornsby RSL

Tue 9 May

AGM/Lunch/Rugby

Sat 29 Jul

t +61 2 8438 7999

f +61 2 8438 7609 w barker.college

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.

Regional Events

Regional events provide a great opportunity to connect with members of the Barker community in your area.

Please contact community@barker. nsw.edu.au for information about regional events or to update your contact details if you are living in a different location to your Barker mailing address so we can invite you too!

Photos

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