The Barker #115 by Barker College

Winter 2017 Issue 115 ISSN: 2204-938X

Inquiry Learning Pre-K to Year 2

Alumni Profile Michael Scott-Mitchell

Pioneering Cadets

CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

A Proud Campus

The Regulars 03 Our Experience With Youth Workers 04 Learning for Life 10 Making a Difference Together in Learning 14 The Tactile World of Hands-On 19 Memorial Scholarship Trust 22 Alumni Profile: Michael Scott-Mitchell 41 The Old Barker: Bill Coaldrake, Class of 1970

The Features 01 Singing the World into Life Phillip Heath 02 From the Chair of Council Peter Berkley

Visibility and Value

43 OBA President's Message Tony Gamson

16 Issue 115 Winter 2017 The Barker is the quarterly magazine of Barker College Editor-in-Chief Mr Phillip Heath

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Editor Julie McAllister Assistant Coordinators Mandy Loomes Karina Drummond Print Production Ian Lindsay Art Direction Glenn Quevedo facebook.com/barkercollege @barkercollege

A Stage Manager's Final Speech

FROM THE HEAD

Singing the World In the darkness something was happening at last. A voice had begun to sing. It was very far away and Digory found it hard to decide from what direction it was coming. Sometimes it seemed to come from all directions at once. Sometimes he almost thought it was coming out of the earth beneath them. Its lower notes were deep enough to be the voice of the earth herself. There were no words. There was hardly even a tune. But it was, beyond comparison, the most beautiful noise he had ever heard. It was so beautiful he could hardly bear it. The horse seemed to like it too; he gave the sort of whinny a horse would give if, after years of being a cab horse, it found itself back in the old field where it had played as a foal, and saw someone whom it remembered and loved coming across the field to bring it a lump of sugar. "Gawd!" said the Cabby. "Ain't it lovely?" From C.S.Lewis The Magician’s Nephew

Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

ike so many parts of the community, Barker is experiencing change. This is a perpetual experience of a community that seeks to be known as a leader in Christian education. It is not only the school education sector that is experiencing the unparalleled speed of change that now is commonplace. Change usually brings energy and renewal, particularly if we adopt an open hearted enthusiasm for the big ideas that propel the change. Of course, change for its own sake is rarely welcome. Schools are concerned with the future. This is our main preoccupation. The students who have entered our Pre Kindergarten class this year will be in Year 12 in 2030. They will graduate from tertiary studies during the 2030s and be in the workforce probably until the end of the 21st century. The decisions that they will be making in their personal and professional lives will influence the early decades of the 22nd century. It is with this thought that every educator must be focussed on supporting students to develop the capacity and confidence that they will need to shape the future. Despite this reality, schools are also profoundly concerned with the present. Every experience and every day is crucial in shaping the hearts and minds of our students and forming the culture of our community. The small moments and the great gestures all play a vitally important role in developing character and capacity. We must ensure that every student experiences the best that Barker can provide, even while changes are occurring in the world around us.

For this reason, I was very moved recently when I read afresh the loved words from The Magician’s Nephew by C.S.Lewis. You may know the Chronicles of Narnia and the adventures of the children who were carried by magical means to a wondrous new world of talking beasts and mighty adventures. The Magician’s Nephew is a kind of prequel, recounting the story of the creation of the land of Narnia by the majestic singing of the Lion. If you haven’t read the story for a while, indulge yourself and have some fun. When the Lion sings, the very earth itself responded. Mountains were shaped, rivers began to flow, trees and plants sprang from the earth to form forests and valleys of lush vegetation. Stars began to illuminate the darkened skies and, finally, spectacularly, a new sun began to rise for the first time on a new earth. For many days afterwards, the earth itself was alive with trembling vitality, sprouting new living things with astonishing speed. It is a lovely word picture of the freshness of a new creation. The earth itself becomes creative, a strong living being that can barely contain its joy. At the risk of being excessively romantic, this is such a time at Barker. Although change brings a measure of uncertainty for some, it also unleashes a wonderful energy and a sense of hope. During these past months, School staff have been involved in Five Project Groups investigating the new opportunities arising from full coeducation. We have been involved in a substantial Master Planning and design exercise that is trying to imagine the site in fifty years time. We have further strengthened the connection with Darkinjung Barker and begun to explore new relationships with the Aboriginal community in Anmatjerra in Central Australia. We have established the College of Coaches, which will parallel the College of Teachers and the Barker Institute to strengthen our professional teaching capacity. The students have presided over numerous superb initiatives of outreach and growth, building connections through Robotics, Service Learning, Footprint, and Extended Stay residential experiences. It is hard not to be swept up in all these developments. The pages that follow will share some of this sense of joyous development with you. “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain” Ps 127:1. Please uphold our work in prayer that we live a life worthy of our great calling.

FROM THE CHAIR OF COUNCIL THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Chairof Council

here is a profound responsibility in the simple observation that students come to Barker as children and leave as adults. We aspire to send our young people out well equipped to make their way in the world, with the best possible chance of realising their own unique potential. Growth is often accompanied by stress. Athletes train hard, deliberately placing their bodies under stress, to achieve growth in strength and endurance. Academically, we learn best when we can focus all of our attention on a task. The reality of life is that many people struggle to attain that focus outside of the stress of deadlines or exams. Our children experience stress, but not necessarily in the same ways as adults. Change can also be stressful. Technology seems to be driving change at an increasing rate. The workplace today is vastly different to even a generation ago. There is a mass of psychological literature on how individuals cope with change, and a library of management literature on how organisations manage change. The application in the educational setting is important to get right. Our children are not little adults, they require more care and nurture. A recent Harvard Business review article made the observation that our beliefs about stress matter. As Stanford psychologist Kelly McGonigal argues in The Upside of Stress, “your reaction to stress has a greater impact on your health and success than the stress itself. If you believe stress kills you, it will. If you believe stress is trying to carry you over a big obstacle or through a challenging situation, you’ll become more resilient.” Focusing on values instead of fears is important, remembering our identity cannot be compromised by a difficult circumstance. Of course, there is much more to building resilience in our children than this and we deliberately devote resources to that task. There is a natural tendency for schools to focus on tangible results like athletic competition or exam scores like NAPLAN and the ATAR. Pursuing academic excellence in the basics of reading, writing, numeracy, and technology skills are a given. Barker has always been about much more than achieving such results. We aspire to teach a cultural and historical awareness, and an appreciation of the arts. We have a long tradition of producing well rounded students. It doesn’t happen by accident. We invest more in co-curricular activities and pastoral care than most.

Even more, we seek to teach an understanding of what it is to be human and to live in relationships with other humans. The innovation of social media has connected humans more than ever before, and yet, so many of our young people feel isolated and lonely. Mental health problems are on the rise. The way we relate to one another is changing. Something is lost when we replace face-to-face communication and the simple act of spending time together with electronic interactions. There is something happening in society, especially in the lives of our young people, which we do not yet understand. We believe the values of a Barker education will stand our young people in good stead. In Genesis, we read that “in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them.” Every person, male and female, is uniquely valuable. Teaching that respect and care for others is a core element of a Barker education. In the senior years, our students learn to relate to the opposite sex in a safe environment. They learn social skills and an ability to work together, and to resolve conflict that serves them well. After Barker, our students are part of an alumni network of over 16,000 people. A group of connected adults, deliberately supporting one another in all sorts of ways is an immense asset that our students take with them into adult life. Like all relationships, it takes work. I encourage all our past students to stay connected, to maintain friendships and even develop new ones, and to support one another in all areas of life. Together we are stronger and more able to cope with the challenges that life will inevitably throw at us. Humans are, in essence, relational beings. We need to live and work together and, now more than ever, our young people need to learn those relational skills. These are complex issues. The leadership of the School continues to ask itself the hard questions of how to best prepare our precious children for life in the adult world. Working with all members of the Barker community under the leadership of Mr Heath, I believe we are on the right track. Thank you for your continued support and God bless. Peter Berkley Chair of Council

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

Our Experience More than 20 youth workers/teachers have enriched the Barker community over the last 15 years.

Riley Spring has been with us as a youth worker/teacher since 2013. He has taught Commerce, Business Studies and Christian Studies as well as coaching sport and supporting our students in Cru. He says: ‘I look back on the opportunity to be involved in the lives of so many students, to help them grow in their journey through school, and especially in their spiritual journey, their faith journey. In the classroom, at Cru, at sport and the numerous events that take place every week, I’ve loved the opportunity to be part of the Barker community and to grow myself. These four and a bit years have been a great joy. I’ve made so many friendships with students and staff. Now I’m off to America to study Theology as I prepare myself for pastoral ministry with a view to church planting in the future through Sovereign Grace Churches – God willing.’

Reverend Jeff Ware School Chaplain

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

he idea was simple: most of us develop our Christian faith in a voluntary setting, and we learn best from those who are slightly older, who are at the next stage of life. Add something else: we wanted to play a part in training the next generation of chaplains. We sourced a good program from local churches - MTS (the Ministry Training Scheme) – and adapted it to suit our School context. We employed young graduate teachers and offered them a three year position as a youth worker/teacher, time enough to work out whether their calling was to chaplaincy, full-time church ministry, or a career in teaching. The program has been successful in achieving these aims. Students, parents/guardians and staff have appreciated their presence: ‘For me, the youth workers bring energy and positivity to the life of Barker, and especially the Christian life. They are always ready and available to have ‘the big discussions’ and to challenge us in our faith.’ (Savannah Hughes – Year 12)

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Learning The Junior School has been thriving in so many different ways through our inquiry learning.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

e know the world is changing and so must we. Increasing global interdependence, rapid growth of knowledge, environmental concerns and the expanding role of technology all mean that we need to prepare our children for an uncertain but exciting future. We must teach them to think and to find ways to nourish their soul and inspire hope in the world. It is a complex task but the Junior School is up to the challenge, as we see ourselves as a committed and courageous community of learners. We have been focusing on learning together; students, parents/guardians and staff. Using the IB Learner profile, we have set out to examine the ten attributes of a learner. Our aim is to develop learners who are; Thinkers, Communicators, Risk-Takers, Reflective, Open-Minded, Caring, Principled, Inquirers, Knowledgeable and Balanced. Year 6 delved deep into their unit of inquiry by examining their central idea titled; ‘People can thrive when their cultures, beliefs and relationships are respected and valued.’

For six weeks, they explored three lines of inquiry that propelled them into thinking at a deeper conceptual level about what it means to thrive. They observed, questioned and researched many different aspects of the human race in their quest to create connections and find relevance. They reflected upon their own cultures, beliefs and relationships, seeking to understand what makes them thrive. A deeper understanding was developed as the unit proceeded until the students were ready to delve into their own personal story. After they had finished their inquiry, parents/guardians, grandparents and special friends were then welcomed into the Copeland Building to attend our ‘Thriving Expo’. This mini-exhibition was a joyous occasion, as the children set up learning booths for their visitors to move around and question each presenter and learn from them. What an amazing array of ideas were presented by our inquirers! For over an hour, our visitors were spellbound by the depth of knowledge of all our students. We also witnessed many

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Above Students in 6F share with our visitors; Right So many visitors were enthralled.

unsure of what lies ahead when they finally move beyond the Mint Gates, we are reassured that our students will be inspired to be life-long learners with hearts full of hope. Caroline Merrick Deputy Head Junior School

“For me, I am driven by two main philosophies: know more today about the world than I knew yesterday and lessen the suffering of others. You'd be surprised how far that gets you.” Neil deGrasse Tyson

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

children for whom this task had become an inspiration for action. Our students told us stories of how they had changed aspects of their daily lives to ensure they were thriving. It was optimistic, uplifting and full of hope. By focusing on concepts, our children could find connections between their prior knowledge and their new learning. Conceptual learning helps us as learners to organise our thinking and make sense of our knowledge. Concepts are big transferable ideas that transcend time, place and situation. By engaging the personal intellect and emotions of the learner, a deeper level of understanding is possible. The learner demonstrates a greater level of understanding and connects to the content knowledge, giving it personal relevance. Thus, we can better prepare our students for the future by meeting the intellectual demands through collaboration and connection. As the tints of the Autumn leaves begin to turn along the edge of Number One, I am always reminded of the seasons we enjoy at Barker. All too soon these students will be moving up the Hill. It is a time-honoured journey. Although we are

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Darkinjung Barker Term 1 provided many highlights for the staff and students at Darkinjung Barker. Our focus is the ongoing learning development of each child and our connection to community and culture. It is wonderful to be able to look back and reflect positively on all that has been achieved.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

ach and every child continues to make wonderful progress in their learning. Focusing on the development of literacy and numeracy skills, students engage in activities that build understanding and confidence. Additional support through programs like Jolly Phonics, the MacqLit programs Pre-Lit and Mini-Lit, hands–on numeracy experiences and the focused attention of the teachers, teachers’ aides and interns ensures targeted intervention and assistance for students. The children were encouraged to come to school with open minds and a determination to set goals that they can work towards achieving. Monday afternoon provides the opportunity for Cultural Time across the campus. Culture and Heritage are important parts of all of the learning programs at the campus and guests from the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) visit to share learning experiences and build knowledge in this important area. The children thoroughly enjoy the activities. Friends Connect, a program for the girls in Years 3-6 with Miss Bailey, is another example of building connection and culture. It provides an opportunity for discussion and activities over lunchtime each week. A strong sense of belonging and a focus on well-being are critical to the continued improvement and focus of all students. I have been thoroughly impressed with the demonstration of the School’s Strategic Plan to Inspire Global Hope and the Barker Values since beginning my time at Darkinjung Barker. This was overwhelmingly demonstrated by the Yarramalong campus in Term 1 when the Darkinjung Barker community got right behind a wonderful charity event – Shave for a Cure through the Leukaemia Foundation. The event looks to raise awareness and to support research into blood cancer. We set a goal to raise $400 with the children extremely excited to be making a difference. We were overwhelmed by the support of the students, families and community. The celebration day saw Mr Spencer, Mr Gordon, (CEO of DLALC) and me, have our heads shaved and we well and truly smashed our goal by raising over $4,500.

The visits to the Hornsby Campus continue to be a wonderful part of the program for the students. On one occasion, we visited the “Barker Redbacks” bunker to watch a demonstration by the Robotics team. The Year 11 students gave up some of their time to show our children what robotics at Barker is all about. Some of our students were even lucky enough to have a turn controlling some of the robots. It was very exciting. Visits to other venues on the Central Coast have also added to our highlights. K-6 were invited to visit the local museum Alison Homestead where the original schoolhouse from Yarramalong Public School is displayed. We were able to sit in and do some mock up lessons in the school house. It was a lot of fun. In another first, Years 5 and 6 students travelled down the road to Wyong Creek Public School to work on a collaborative art project. The students participated in a wonderful art lesson using clay, to create their own bowls, vases and even creating their own animals. It was a great opportunity for our students to meet some new faces and take part in a wonderful lesson. The art is currently on display at the Yarramalong Community Centre and was featured in the recent art show. I continue to be amazed, but not surprised, at the dedication and commitment of the staff at Darkinjung Barker. There is never a day that I don't see a staff member going above and beyond for the children. This includes making breakfast or lunches for the children, working through lunchtime with students, or taking time to interact with our tight-knit community at Yarramalong. The School functions so well as a result of the dedication of the staff. Our children benefit so much from the love and care shown. Our collaborative programs that focus on literacy and numeracy ensure our growth is strong and our minds are challenged. Darkinjung Barker is a place of which I am extremely proud. Jamie Shackleton Darkinjung Barker Campus Coordinator

JUNIOR SCHOOL

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Inquiry Learning

culture of thinking, evoking curiosity, questioning, making discoveries, expressing thought and creating is what we want to achieve in a child’s learning. Inquiry learning enriches a child’s sense of identity as well as enabling a sense of belonging and contributing to their engagement and motivation to learn. Inquiry learning is our road map for the Units of Inquiry in our PYP (Primary Years Program) journey and the students across Pre-K to Year 2 have embraced their new units of inquiry.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Sarah Dickson Director of Early Learning Pre-K to Year 2

Pre-Kindergarten ‘Each person is special and unique’ - this was the central idea for Pre-Kindergarten’s first unit of inquiry. We investigated our physical, social and emotional characteristics. Pre-K created lists, graphs and artworks. The children drew pictures and scribed sentences that highlighted that, although we are the same in many respects, each person is actually ‘one of a kind’. No one is exactly the same as us. We also investigated how we have grown and changed since we were a baby. Pre-K talked about the things that they can do now that they couldn’t do when they were younger. The children loved sharing their baby photos with the class. They also discussed how each one of them is connected to others. We brought in photos of our family to show the class and talked about the things we like to do with our families. The family photos were displayed in the classroom and the students loved talking about their families with their classmates. Wendy Quadrio Pre-Kindergarten Class Teacher

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Clockwise Pre-K students engaging in creative play; Pre-K students enjoying outdoor learning; Year 1 students participating in a Kaleidoscope incursion; Year 2 students developing collaborative games.

Year 1 In Term 1, Year 1 investigated how people find different ways to discover and express their uniqueness as human beings. We looked at how light and sound can be manipulated to achieve this through different mediums. The key concepts of function, perspective and reflection were used to aid students in their discoveries. The sound and light hunt around the Prep School excited the students’ interest as they asked the questions of why and how different areas were lighter, darker, louder and softer. Our interest was teased even further by the Kaleidoscope incursion which was a big hit with the students as their senses were ignited by light experiments, fascinating colour and ‘tricking of the eye’ games. The students also had a lot of fun undertaking investigations. They used torches to make shadows and created light boxes. Students were able to manipulate light to create new images and understand how other materials changed the intensity of the light. During these investigations, we discovered that Year 1 has some future engineers! Ainslie Breckenridge & Laura Hayter Year 1 Class Teachers

Year 2

Sabrina Shields & Kate Meggitt Kindergarten Class Teachers

Gemma Glynn Year 2 Class Teacher

Kindergarten

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Kindergarten’s first line of inquiry for the year was to look at the rights and responsibilities of people within a community, with specific reference to the Barker Community. The students made strong connections with how their actions can affect others both positively and negatively. They developed various ideas regarding inclusiveness, cooperation and how a Barker student would demonstrate pride in what they do. It was a meaningful way to commence a new School year, providing the opportunity for the students to design a class agreement that promoted and developed student ownership. The second line of inquiry investigated how our values and beliefs influence our identity. We engaged in discussion about family values and how significant the values are in shaping individuals. Kindergarten also examined external factors such as School, friends, church, clubs and organisations that also help to form our identity.

‘Connection’, ‘causation’ and ‘change’, though abstract and seemingly mature concepts, were understood by the Year 2 students as they undertook their first unit of inquiry. This understanding was progressively developed through engagement in learning experiences that enabled the students to interact with, question and investigate the learning content surrounding the central idea - ‘Physical places and forces influence the needs of the community.’ As such, our young learners identified the various places that they felt connected to, discovering the Prep School as a central location that united them as members of the Barker community. Embarking on the inquiry journey also facilitated the students’ understanding of the physical sciences as they explored push and pull forces in a variety of contexts. Such discovery inspired the Year 2 students to develop collaborative games that utilised push and pull forces, deepening the connection shared between peers in a central location. A wonderfully exciting way to commence learning for the year and explore notably different curriculum areas in a united and meaningful way.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Making a Difference A ten-year study of the journey of our 2008 veterans (Year 12 boys in 2017)

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

uring the preliminary stage of initiating School-based research as an integral part of my role as Director of Research in Learning, the School hypothesised on the impact that the ‘Barker Experience’, as it is often called, has on boys as they journeyed from the Junior School to Year 12. In 2008, Year 3 was our commencing cohort, whereas we now start in Pre-K. Similar to the famous “Seven Up” series of studies and documentaries that tell the longitudinal story of the participants, we attempted to create a similar means of tracking and learning from the boys who were about to embark on a ten-year journey at Barker. Given the timeframe, access to the students and the eventful nature of Barker each day, it was decided to interview them once a year, asking a series of questions about their journey and their time at Barker up to that point. At present, we are soon to begin the final iteration of the study where the boys, who are now considerably taller than they were when first interviewed in 2008, will be asked to share their final experiences and reflections with us prior to their departure as they move beyond the Mint Gates. As part of the research focus of the Barker Institute, we are hopeful in continuing this study with the boys beyond their School years, with the aim of building on the foundations they have already established at Barker in their ten years of schooling. In Term 3 2017, there will be a special Barker Institute event, where we will share the story with extracts from video, interviews and the analysis that has been undertaken to consider the insight and thinking from close to 500 individual interviews. As the primary researcher, it has been an amazing experience to share in discussions with these students each year, both formally and informally to watch

them grow. Further, it has been a privilege to talk to each boy and to see their academic, personal and spiritual growth play out in their passionate and highly reflective responses. Recently, Mrs Amanda Eastman has been analysing Year 11 interviews. There have been many powerful factors that have been illuminated, highlighting how important and constant the School environment has been for each of them in a very personal and meaningful way. In her report on this story, which will be published in the Barker Institute Journal later in the year, Amanda writes about the diversity of these experiences. It is almost immediately evident that every student’s experience is unique. The students in this study are engaged in an incredibly diverse range of academic and co-curricular aspects of the School. When the students were asked about the highlight of their year, responses included everything from camps and tours, to the Musical and the play; from watching and playing sport, to Cadets; from F1 and Robotics, to Choir and Band; from Mock Trials and Debating to Extension Chinese. Some students, rather than identifying a specific activity, said that being supported in their academic achievement was a highlight, with one student reporting that “I have a good time every time I go into each classroom.” Many comments also reflect on the power of the values that have been instilled in them as individuals: “Barker builds good people. When you’re around good people you become one yourself.” “All the values that the School goes by get instilled into each Barker student, but especially once you’re here for this long it becomes a part of you.”

TEACHING & LEARNING

“It’s good to enforce values. It’s given me a moral compass.” “Becoming the best possible version of yourself.” Combined with reflections about the teaching they have experienced, which mirrors the significant and powerful relationships that have connected the students with their teachers and peers, seeing the collective strength of working with one another becoming a reality, has been a further powerful observation. Comments such as: “While I have developed a lot of relationships with students and made great friendships with them, I have also developed great relationships with the teachers”, highlight the perceptive and important influence of teachers on the students as they get older. Key themes such as equality, diversity, community, teaching and balance have become the emerging common threads that have connected these boys as we analyse this remarkable data from the past ten years. It is important to tell the story of the students collectively, while also honouring their individual voices as significant contributors to the life of Barker. In the book The ones we remember: Scholars reflect on teachers who made a difference, Gregory (2008) highlights the importance of the connection realised and developed with students as they embark on their learning journey:

Dr Brad Merrick Director of Research in Learning and the Barker Institute Mrs Amanda Eastman Assistant to the Director of Barker Institute Dr Greg Cunningham Director of Teaching and Learning and the College of Teachers THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

The student who absorbs the benefits of working with, say, languages, scientific hypotheses, or literary texts-as opposed to merely storing recallable facts about these domains – has his or her intellect and sensibility reconfigured in ways that make one’s overall life more vital, more varied, more thoughtful, more curious and more aware of the interplay of tragedy and luck, good and evil, hopes and failure (pp 219-220).

This study will be shared in greater detail in the coming months, but it also serves to remind us all that ‘Together in learning Together in life’ is certainly a reality for our students.

www.barkerinstitute.com.au @BarkerInstitute Sharing innovation, research & professional learning throughout the education community. Fostering inspired teaching practice locally, nationally and globally.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

VISUAL ARTS

Visibility

VISUAL ARTS

Clockwise from left to right - Palm Print by Chris Young; My Scout Patrols by Alexander de Montemas; Abdul Abdullah modelling the proportions of the face; Abdul Abdullah conducting a workshop with Year 10 students.

The creation of an artwork can be a personal process. Our artists draw from their own experiences, thoughts and beliefs, so displaying these works takes courage.

art is now a driving force in his work. Abdul Abdullah is a multidisciplinary artist working in mediums such as painting and photo media. During his most recent visit he delivered a practical portraiture workshop where he modelled how to determine correct proportion and painting techniques, such as creating colour palettes and how to use layering. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience that enhanced and developed the students’ practical skill base. We were all left inspired and enlightened by the enthusiastic and talented Mr Abdullah. Tara Claire van Drempt Head of Visual Arts

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

owever, by making their work visible there is great value. Artist Edgar Degas is quoted to have said “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” By providing opportunities for our students to exhibit their work, we are fostering an authentic artist practice experience, in which our students are able to witness how they have been able to touch their audience and ‘make others see’. The Mosman Art Prize is a forum in which students can do just this. This competition is aimed at encouraging the creative talents of young people and providing a showcase for their works. The prize is renowned as being competitive and this year we entered a selection of works from Years 7 to 12. Seven students’ works were selected to be hung; Fergus Berney-Gibson, Alexander de Montemas, Tom Doyle (16), Olivia Taragel, Hailley Hunt, Jamie Holdsworth and Kelly van Homrigh (16). The work displayed this year was of a high calibre and these students should be thrilled with their selection. The ILFORD Photographic Competition is an opportunity in which students can see their work displayed in print media. This year Chris Young from Year 9 "Palm Print" and Year 8 student Nicholas Heberden "Monkeying Around", have both been announced as winners in their categories for the Ilford Competition and will be featured in the upcoming edition of the Ilford Magazine which reaches a broad audience. Exhibiting artworks is one way in which we are equipping our students to venture into the Art world. Another way is providing connections with contemporary artists. Recently we have been privileged to have visiting artist Abdul Abdullah share with our Year 10 and 11 elective students, his conceptual and material practice. Abdul spoke to us about the progression of his own art practice. He explained the differing approaches he took to portray sitters such as Waleed Aly, Anthony ‘The Man’ Mundine and retired police officer Craig Campbell for the Archibald Prize and how his work has become increasingly political. This highlights the power art can have in our world. His passion to combat prejudice with

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

The Tactile World

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

T 14

he Design and Technology Department is a place for students to engage in unique ‘hands-on experiences’. We live in a world where students are increasingly reliant on digital technology and the opportunities that these technologies afford to students is considerable. It is important however, to realise that, whilst projects may be increasingly produced using a computer or machine interface, there is still much value to be gained by engaging students in the tactile world of ‘hands-on’ to develop cognitive skills and experiences. The range of modalities that hands-on learning provides to students is perhaps one of the key reasons why they enjoy the experiences so much and why this form of learning has an essential place in the day-to-day activities that students undertake when at School. At Barker, we have a lot of knowledge in making and we encourage our students to do more in their journey to realise their designs – how can they improve the style, manipulate

form, reduce unnecessary elements, substitute materials, consider environmental impact, improve the user experience and produce a more unique design? These are just some of the considerations that students engage in as they learn to apply processes and manipulate materials to achieve tangible outcomes. Carefully framed questions can also stretch students to think about other relevant concepts as they complete making processes. Being free to create and explore materials and processes, is something that our students do a lot when making. Modalities that they employ when making include; visual, tactile, kinesthetic, spatial and enactive, with instruction being supported by visual and aural modalities. The instruction however, does not replace the learning. Students respond by doing and it is for this reason that students remain engaged in what is a very practical way to learn, applying ‘hands-on’ experiences’ which is a continuum of established methodologies in learning. A student’s ability

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Clockwise from left to right Mac Northcote assembling ribs for a paddle board; Tyson Dulieu turning a bowl on wood lathe; Elly Baigent with mould and plywood seat; Jack Kelly creating propylene lampshade; Sarah Woodrow sewing jump suit pants; Gemma Kiss hand stitching a dress; Fergus Hudson welding a stool base; Dylan Light fitting motor to skate board; Will Wicks and Ethan Kinch bending a pipe for a chair frame.

Last year, the Design and Technology Department was rewarded by having two students obtain a place in the top five of their respective subjects in their HSC and another student was chosen to exhibit in the Shape Exhibition. These are just some of the many different operations our students engage in to manipulate materials. It requires close observation, dexterity in manipulation, and an understanding of material properties and processes. The mastery of skills is improved over time by repeatedly ‘doing’. The broad range of tools and processes available to students at Barker to realise their ideas, affords students authentic learning opportunities that are memorable, empowering and essential in understanding how to shape the environment in which they live today and in the future. Darren Woodrow Head of Design and Technology

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

to apply tactile techniques and methods to their projects ensures that their experience is absorbing and real. With these experiences grows confidence and knowledge to try new processes and approaches to produce unique solutions. When this happens it is ‘a magic moment’ of transformation. But it happens because they have some fundamental understanding in using materials based on their own experiences. This knowledge cannot be learned through reading or watching videos. It can only be acquired through ‘doing’. For instance; how metal behaves once annealed and then becomes work-hardened affects the bending process; how timbers have different grain types; figure and oil content affect how they can be cut and shaped; the amount of heat required to make solder run and at what speed to move the torch when welding; knowing how fast to feed different materials into a cutting blade based on the tooth size; running speed and appropriate chipping rate; how much tension to apply when stretching and sewing different fabrics.

DRAMA

A Stage Manager's Unlike other shows where the stage crew seems to be mentioned last, tonight I want to start with my people.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

ince day one I have loved learning on the job with you and always making sure the people on stage think we know what we are doing!! From late night painting sessions and the security angels who save us with leftovers, to the last-minute backstage planning of our final night bows, I couldn't be prouder to stand next to you all when we walk out into those blinding stage lights later tonight! I'm going to miss you like nothing else. I'm going to miss the feeling I get waking up knowing it’s a Crew day. Now to the stunning cast! It’s this incredible thing standing backstage; all the cast have finished pumping each other up and there's this point where you ‘put on’ your character. Where you just switch and you’re a whole different bunch of people in front of me. And that's it, that's the bit that makes me say “wow I'm lucky!” I get to see this part of theatre, the exact point where actors become characters and new people walk onto the stage. I remember looking around at the Year 10 play and thinking “I’ve found my people”. These are the people for whom I will scale ten flights of stairs, breaking land speed records just so they can have the tiniest prop. These are the people who make

“shushing” a chore because I love chatting with them so much. These are the people that make staying at School for more hours than I am at home - worth it. And, despite the fact that I will never be a full-on Drama student, never understand how playing a game of bang whilst others shout and jump around helps you to ‘get in the zone’, or understand how walking out in front of hundreds of people gives you a buzz, I do understand how, for approximately ten short weeks every year, I gain another family. I do understand that when a bunch of people move towards one goal, beautiful things happen. I will always understand the power of tea, backstage smiles and duct tape. So, no matter what, I will always be your cheerleader. So right now, it’s up to all of you to gather your props, take your incredible talent and show the stages of the world, whether they be Broadway, Parliament, a rainforest or an operating theatre, how Barker Drama changes a person. Isla Stevenson Stage Manager, Year 12 Play

DRAMA

One Dramatic This year we had the pleasure of expanding the annual Winter Playhouse with the inclusion of the Boys and Girls Dance Squads for an evening of the fantastic Performing Arts at Barker.

We also had monologue performances from Year 11: Harrison Mortimer, Kelsea Haste and Rhiannon Bryan, each of whom put the ‘real’ in Realism and I’m very proud to hand the Year 12 mantle to that wonderful year group. During one portion of the evening, I was speaking to two Year 9 boys who were nervous about performing their Greek Chorus pieces in front of an audience. I told them how I was in their position four years ago and that, ever since that initial on-stage moment, I’ve loved every moment of Barker Drama. I then realised I have been involved with Barker Drama for four years, and I am now one of those giant Year 12s that I had once idolised. That’s a humbling thought because as I finish Year 12, my time with Barker Drama is coming to a close and in another four years these Year 9s will be in my position and, like me, will have loved their time in Barker Drama with every fibre of their being. As Barker moves forward into further co-curricular education, events like ‘Winter Playhouse’ will be instrumental to the student experience. They provide an opportunity for students to share their theatrical experience across the years with an audience of peers, guardians and educators.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

e showcased a variety of Drama acts, including monologues, duologues and sneak peeks of the Years 10 and 11 plays as well as bringing more sophistication to the backstage setup. As the Barker Drama curriculum becomes even stronger, we’ve seen the addition of a Musical Theatre unit in Year 10; giving us sensational numbers like the duet between Jack Stubley and Daniel Jongma. The Senior and Intermediate Theatresports teams performed and in true improvisation fashion had little idea what they were doing until they did it. And as usual, it was extremely funny! What really blew me away this year was my fellow Year 12s Gabby Dunn and Olivia Toomey performing their HSC performances. I hadn’t had the pleasure of viewing them before and I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Gabby Dunn dramatised Marilyn Monroe with a level of authenticity and reality that was a treat to watch. And Olivia Toomey simply transformed on-stage with her piece from “The Drover’s Wife.” I’ve known Olivia for the past three years, but what I saw onstage was a newfound complex and multi-layered woman who was struggling for survival in the harsh Australian outback. It was just beautiful.

Fergus Berney-Gibson One of the Barker Drama Captains for 2017

STEAM

What’s happening in

Science and STEAM

It has been a busy term of speakers and events for Barker Science and our STEAM activities.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

t Barker we are taking an integrated approach in STEAM education and are leveraging engaging and enriching activities that extend the students’ learning across the faculties. Our desire for the students is to connect with experiential learning, to become persistent in their problem solving, to embrace collaboration, work creatively and to be thoughtful risk-takers in their learning. During Term 1, this included Year 9 participating in the Big History Project where they investigated history from the Big Bang and the formation of the Universe in both their History and Science classes. This culminated in a visit from Dianne McGrath, one of the finalists in the bid to become a one-way astronaut on Mars One Project. Dianne engaged the students in thinking about the value of space research and the many technologies that have been driven by the Space Race. She also spoke to Year 5 as the culmination of their Mars Unit – they were captivated and lined up for signatures and selfies! Year 9 Science extension participated in the launch of the Day of Stem Optus Cyber Security program in partnership with Macquarie University. Ross Mackay and I were invited to speak at the launch function at Optus headquarters, where Ross made quite an impression as a fine young man with a heart for inquiry. The Brain Light Project was another engaging event that enthralled Year 12 Biology and many staff. This featured the work of Laura Jade Hindes, a neuroscientist and artist who uses the technology of blue tooth to connect an EEG receiver to the projection of our brainwaves onto her 3-dimensional brain sculpture. The images produced were captivating.

Top to bottom Ross Mackay (Year 9) at the Optus Cyber Security launch; Dianne McGrath meets Year 9 students; Laura Jade Hindes' Brain Light Project.

There is a lot more planned for STEAM at Barker in the coming months! Save the Date for the STEAM Festival in weeks 5 & 6 of Term 3 and the GALA Event on Thursday 17 August, 5:30 – 8:00 pm. Virginia Ellis STEAM Coordinator

MATHS AND MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP TRUST

Carruthers’

r Carruthers is an experienced Mathematics teacher who began working at Barker in 1990. Last year, he developed a weekly mathematics challenge for staff to enjoy. Some of those teachers began to share these questions with their classes and, consequently, some students have joined in the fun. Here is an example. Find the smallest positive integer x such that: x + 2x + 3x + 4x + ... + 1000x is a perfect square. The first correct answer came from Mrs Malyn Mawby in the Computer Science Department, who used an Excel spreadsheet to find the correct answer. Another problem is: Evaluate, correct to 3 decimal places, the infinite sum.

k = 6.027025 + 6.027025 + 6.027025 + ... Staff and students may use any device to solve problems or simply pen and paper. For example, Sean Zammit (Year 12) and David Lu (Year 10) wrote solid solutions to the following problem:

Find all integer values of x such that the value of f (x) is an integer where...

f ( x) =

x3 - 30 x 2 + 300 x x 2 - 20 x + 100

If there are any other keen students of Mathematics who wish to participate in this weekly challenge, please talk to your teacher or check the noticeboards. Allison Davis Assistant Coordinator of Mathematics

Memorial

The girls in Plume House and the Boarding community thoroughly enjoyed the visit and the company of our guests. It was a tremendous opportunity for everyone to learn from each other and understand more of our historical links and cultures. From Palm Beach to the Opera, feeding calves and taking baths (for the first time) – great memories for all. Special thanks to the girls and staff in Plume House, Neil and Lynette Silver, Alex Pottie, the OBA and all the teachers for their efforts in ensuring the success of the visit.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

or three weeks Barker Boarding hosted Genevia, Agnes and Suzie from Sabah (East Malaysia) in partnership with the OBA and the Sandakan Memorial Scholarship Trust. The Trust was established in gratitude to the Dusun people who assisted six Australian soldiers escape from captivity in the Sandakan region in 1945, after the tragic and appalling Sandakan Death Marches. The Trust aims to provide educational opportunities beyond Primary School for some of the children of the Dusun villagers, as a mark of gratitude for the courageous compassion their forbears demonstrated in 1945. Each year, the Barker College Cadet Unit raises funds to support the Trust and some years ago the School assisted with the construction of a beautiful memorial window in Sabah. Four Barker Old Boys were amongst the more than two thousand soldiers who perished. Following a conversation with Lynette and Neil Silver, whose tireless research has ensured that the memory of those terrible events is not lost to time, the OBA and the School partnered to bring three Dusun girls to Barker. (The school chose three because at the time of planning we were unaware of the fourth Barker boy who perished at Sandakan. This has come to light more recently.)

Jonathan Rheinberger Director of Boarding

ROBOTICS

Barker Robotics The First Robotics Challenge (FRC) Season is over for another year, and what a season it has been!

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

his year our dedicated team competed in FIRST Steamworks with the challenge of creating a robot to pick up and deliver gears to airships, fill a boiler with ‘fuel’ (yellow balls), and in the final 30 seconds – climb a rope to board the airship. Our students took on the challenge with extraordinary enthusiasm, creating a robot that has been incredibly successful. Through the competition season, we competed in four regional events; the Shenzhen Regional, Southern Cross & South Pacific Regionals (both in Sydney) and the New York City Regional and progressed to the World Championships in Houston, Texas. The team’s focus was to design a robot to compete with the best robots in the world yet with the simplicity and reliability to succeed through three regional competitions in 10 days. As well as achieving a climber that scaled a rope in four seconds, could shoot 50 balls into the boiler in eight seconds and deliver six gears per match, the team designed a modular robot that would break into components for travel in checked luggage. Our software team created sophisticated programming, allowing them to draw a path on a touch screen and have the robot autonomously follow the trajectory.

All of this allowed our three separate drive and mechanical teams to excel at our events, supported by our strategy teams feeding them information on the strategies and capacities other teams were demonstrating. The team went on to win all four regionals, made it all the way through to the Hopper Division Finals at Champs and achieved a final ranking of 10th at Houston and 24th in the World. Our Middle School First Tech Challenge (FTC) Teams also competed at the World Championships this year, the first time a Barker FTC team has made it to Championships. We’re excited for the future of Robotics at Barker! Lael Grant Robotics Coordinator

Clockwise from top The NYC travelling team after winning the team's fourth Regional for the year, and also winning the Chairman's Award; The team celebrates after winning their second regional in Sydney; Venom fires up in autonomous - scoring over 24 balls in less than six seconds; Our mechanical team runs over the pit checklist to prepare the robot for the next match.

ROBOTICS

Highlights •

First teams in the world to make 40Kpa (fill boiler) in a match (Shenzhen)

•

The team received a National Science Grant from the Australian Government to assist our attendance at the Shenzhen Regional

•

Winning the Chairman’s Award for the team’s contributions to growing teams nationally and internationally (New York)

•

Winning the Innovation in Control Award at Championships (Houston)

•

Winning three Regionals in 10 Days with three separate drive teams (Shenzhen, Sydney, Sydney)

•

Winning four Regionals - more Regionals than any other team in the world in 2017

•

Mentor John Nicholls being recognised with a Woodie Flowers award for all his work with Barker and the wider robotics community (Sydney)

•

Winning six Blue Banners in a single season – an equal 2nd for the World Record

•

Sean Zammit winning Dean’s List Award for his work developing software excellence (Sydney)

Ranked ten in the World at the end of the Houston Championships

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017 21

ALUMNI PROFILE

Profile

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Director of Alumni and Development, Mandy Loomes speaks with Michael Scott-Mitchell from the Class of 1978

What has been your most memorable design for a production? For me the 2004 realisation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle, a collection of four large operas presented over 16.5 hours of stage time, was a huge personal achievement. From a public perspective, the cauldron for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games will most likely remain the design for which I am most widely known. What is your favourite memory of a Barker production? I played “The Common Man” in A Man For All Seasons, and for the very first time experienced the thrill of fans waiting at the stage door to congratulate me on my performance… it must have been the tights!

Do you have any general words of advice for today’s Barker students? My advice would be: take full advantage of the extraordinary facilities that the School offers—particularly in any area of the visual or performing arts. Find every opportunity to explore and express your creative impulses and areas of enquiry and, wherever possible, record these explorations for future reference: in particular, where applicable, to the NIDA application process! The maintenance of a future career in the arts is about flexibility and a willingness to engage in many different areas of expression within the discipline that you wish to follow. As a designer, my professional career has been a combination of designing for theatre, opera, film, television, dance, restaurant design, hotel design, furniture design, event design, and teaching. It is the blend of these engagements that leads to a sustainable career, and this again applies to all disciplines. Have you worked with any Barker Alumni in the professional theatre industry? My oldest friend is Jonathan McCauley (78); we started Kindergarten at age five and went through the whole Barker experience together. Jonathan eventually joined Opera Australia’s chorus, and now I design the sets he performs on. My NIDA Design for Performance students who graduated from Barker include Charlie Davis (09), who has made scale models and more recently worked as an associate designer for Opera. Charlotte Henery (06) is also a recent graduate who is now working in London. Michael Sheasby (07) was part of the cast of Arcadia, which I designed for the Sydney Theatre Company. I recently discovered that Eric Robinson OAM (65) was a Barker alumnus: Eric

founded “Jands”, the lighting, audio and staging company, and I worked with him for many years. How hard was it to design the cauldron for the 2000 Olympics? I was the first creative engaged on the Olympics, four years prior to the event. This was a result of being a theatre designer who had architectural training. The Olympic cauldron’s original position within the stadium, while being logical in terms of the broad layout of the stadium, did not allow gold ticket holders to view the lighting of the cauldron. Ric Birch, Master of Ceremonies for the opening and closing ceremonies, decided it needed a theatrical brain to imagine a pathway through the dilemma. I was invited to a breakfast meeting at his house, where he briefed me on the thoughts that he had for the lighting of the cauldron—which included surfers riding a huge wave of water released from the top of the stadium, to be met by surf life-savers standing on the field of play. Needless to say, I moved on fairly quickly from this embryonic idea! I did, however, like the idea that water was released from the top of the stadium, and quickly conceived the cauldron as it was to become—in fact, I remember phoning my wife as I left the meeting: I had already conceived the essence of the design and explained it to her, including the critical component of having Cathy Freeman lighting the cauldron. Did you have an inspirational teacher or mentor? There have been a number of mentors whose collective influence on me and my work has been profound: my Drama teachers at Barker, Roderick Bowie and Dr Rod Kefford; Robin Lovejoy, Ruth Cracknell AM, Richard Gill AO, Brian Thomson, Jim Sharman and John Bell AO OBE, to name just a few. Richard Wherrett proved to be one of my most influential mentors. He provided insight into the roles and relationship between the established artist or mentor, and the novice. This revelation had a profound effect, not only on my work, but my engagement with pedagogy and how best to support emerging artists.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

What are your words of advice for students who wish to study at NIDA when they finish school? It is different for each course. As Head of Design for Performance, I am looking for an applicant to express clear views about the world around them and an imaginative and creative approach to problem-solving. I want to get a snapshot of what makes up the

individual. I’m far less interested in how good a model-maker they are, or how good their drawing capability is: I’m looking for ideas. In many ways, variants of this approach would apply to each of the courses. For actors, what ultimately distinguishes performer from performer is their individuality: their willingness to make offers, to think outside the box, to present themselves confidently as an individual.

ALUMNI PROFILE

Why did you decide to be a designer? My father is an architect. I grew up in two houses he designed which had a strong influence on my broad aesthetic. He also paints—and continues to this day—which was another influence. At Barker, I was heavily involved in drama. For many years, I strongly considered becoming an actor, however the last production I did at Barker convinced me of my lack of ability in that particular arena! Coincidentally, I was asked by the art department to design the production and—although I hardly rank it among my finest achievements—it gave me insight into the potential of this area. After graduating, I studied architecture at Sydney University where I met Robin Lovejoy who was conducting a course entitled “Space and the Human Body”. I immediately identified with this area of enquiry and felt it a very natural fit with my interest in spatial design and the human body within it. At that time, Robin was Head of Directing at NIDA and suggested I should apply for Design at NIDA, and I fortuitously found myself studying at the Institute.

LANGUAGES

All the World’s Year 9 Languages Evening

ales of intrigue, romance and conflict; along with some brilliantly choreographed sequences and screamingly funny scenes, greeted an audience of Year 9 Language students and their families on Wednesday 29 March. Each Year 9 foreign language class performed a theatrical or musical item in, or based upon, the language that they are studying – either Japanese, Chinese, French or Latin. The high quality of the dramatic skills on stage was eclipsed only by the students’ display of linguistic ability. The Japanese class opened the show with a traditional routine of morning exercises – the ‘Rajio Taisoo,’ followed by anime-inspired dance named ‘Yookai Watch’. The Chinese class presented a play written by Mr Wong based upon the character of Monkey who, along with Sandy and Pigsy, travels from China to India to find enlightenment. The French class wrote, performed and directed their own short film entitled ‘le Garcon Perdu’ (the lost boy). Finally, the Latin class performed a series of extracts that revolved around a ‘miles gloriosus’ (a boastful soldier) and his sycophantic sidekick, Strythio. Each student should be proud of their contribution to the success of the evening. It is no small feat to produce such a rich range of engaging and, at times, hilarious dramatic pieces – all in a foreign language. Thanks must go to the students, their parents/ guardians and each of our dedicated staff – Ms Kieken, Ms Walsh and Mr Wong, who helped make the night such a wonderful showcase of foreign language learning. The level of speaking skills and cultural sensitivity displayed by each performance augurs well for a future inspired by global hope through the learning of languages.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Matthew Ross Head of Languages

WOMEN IN ECONOMICS

Top Dorris Awad, Georgia Breckenridge and Sarah McVicker meet the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian and Education Minister, Rob Stokes; Bottom Lunch with the Governor of the RBA, Dr Philip Lowe.

Women in Economics Network (WEN) Empowering professional women in economics was the topic of conversation held at the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Both Sarah and Georgia said they left inspired and encouraged to continue their study in Economics. During question time they asked questions and were engaged throughout the entire conference. We were also able to meet a Barker Alumni (Lara Pendle, 03) who works at the RBA and who was eager to stay in touch in attempts to help us bridge the gap between school and industry. Overall, it was a very beneficial experience and the three of us felt very honoured to be a part of the conference. On a side note, we also coincidently met the Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Education Minister, Rob Stokes, outside the RBA.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

he panel discussion focussed on the professional experience and the challenges and opportunities these senior female economists have faced in the workplace and their strategies/advice on dealing with challenges and seizing opportunities. The conference had only a few spots available and we were extremely honoured to have been invited to attend. There were approximately 60 people in attendance and our Barker students, Sarah McVicker and Georgia Breckenridge, were two of six high school students who attended. We were able to have lunch and discuss important matters with key people in the industry. Key people included Dr Philip Lowe (Governor of the RBA), Ross Gittins (Economics editor of the SMH), Mary-Ann Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Loughlin AM (Deputy Secretary, Social Policy group, NSW Department of Premier & Cabinet), Su Lin Ong (Managing Director, Chief Economist & Head of Australian Research at RBC Capital Markets) and Nicki Hutley (Director and Chief Economist Urbis).

Dorris Awad Commercial Studies Teacher

25 â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

LEADERHIP & SPELLING BEE

Spelling Bee Competition

he 2017 Spelling Bee was sensational and spectacular! There was fast flapping of wings and tremendous testing early in Term 1 in the Year 7-10 English classes to determine the top spellers. Bee-fore long the bee-witching Week 9 buzzed in! Dedication and drive was demonstrated by our magnificent MC, Mr James Tod-Hill, at the exciting lunch time events. Our wondrous Wordmaster, Dr Greg Cunningham, gave great gravitas, delivering difficult and daring words for the competent competitors, our shining spelling stars! There were many morphographic moments, selective and strategic sounds, confusing combinations in careers such as rheumatologist, statistician and paediatrician, and silent letters surreptitiously placed in pneumonia, tsunami and silhouette! Congratulations to our happ-bee honey-coated heroes! A swarm thank you to all the staff and students who helped to make the Spelling Bee so successful! Martine Sloper English Teacher, Learning Support Teacher

Year 7 Winners 1) Anish Gupta 2) Austin Lin 3) Patrick Hill 4) David Yoo 5) Maxi Zihlmann

Year 8 Winners 1) Matthew Brennan 2) Wesley Henderson 3) Angus Henderson 4) Yasiru Jayasekara 5) Will Ridley-Smith

Year 9 Winners 1) Gurman Soni 2) Indigo Hemingway 3) Declan Zammit 4) James Allan and Kiran Sathiaraj

Year 10 Winners 1) Huck Warneford 2) Leanne Tay 3) Jared Tong 4) Ben Nogajski 5) Liam Soo

Sharing Ideas Building Connections

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

L 26

ate in Term 1, student leaders from across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools came together at a new whole School initiative, The Student Leaders Forum. The event was established by the School Captains out of a growing desire to build connections between leaders from all years. It provided an opportunity for student leaders to mix, develop ideas and share progress on initiatives they have been running in their various roles. As one team, they discussed different ways students can Inspire Global Hope now and into the future. Each leadership team reported on their progress to date and Mr Heath challenged the leaders to lead, not through their 'words but their actionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This event ultimately strengthened the connections across the whole School leadership team, creating an inclusive environment for the development of ideas.

Abbey Hodge & Falito van Woerkom School Captains

Top Student leaders discuss what they hope Barker will look like in 2025; Bottom Mr Heath addresses student leaders from the Junior, Middle & Senior Schools.

EXTENDED STAY PROGRAM

I See and Hear You The project is called Kurruna Mwarre-Ingkintja, meaning “Good Spirit Males Place”.

Kenneth has also had a pivotal role in assisting Barker to develop our 18 day Extended Stay Program in Central Australia, which has been designed as a personal development experience within an Indigenous cultural context. Adventure and experiential education provide the underpinning methodology. The Program, which is now in its third year, has enabled over 80 Barker students to gain some unique experiences and perhaps view the world and its people in a different way. In 2017, we see three programs heading out to Central Australia. Two Year 9 boys programs and, for the first time, a Year 10 girls program. It is hoped that The Extended Stay Program will create a formative experience in a students’ life at Barker. Ben Harlow Extended Stay Program Coordinator

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

enneth Immanuel Lechleitner Pangarta is an Arrernte/Anmatjere man from Central Australia, who as part of a research team supported by CASSE (Creating A Safe Supportive Environment) and in partnership with the Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (CAAC) are tasked to develop and evaluate an Aboriginal model for the Men’s Shed Concept. The project is called Kurruna Mwarre-Ingkintja, meaning “Good Spirit Males Place”. The Men’s shed will support aboriginal men to heal from trauma, empower them to live productive lives and create a safe environment for the wider community. Kenneth recently spoke at The CASSE Symposium “The Day After Tomorrow”. His speech, spoken bilingually was delivered with great depth and emotion. Kenneth spoke of the need for aboriginal men to pursue a cultural revolution, where roles are reset and some of the lost cultural tools of language and connection to country could be taught and learnt in a meaningful way. He said “We have dual responsibility, if we don’t see each other, we miss each other.” He hoped that his people would be able to find themselves through this project.

Above Some of the fellas from the 2016 Extended Stay Program.

CADETS

All Weather Success

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Below New Year 10 recruits with CUO Bright waiting to use the Weapons Training Simulation Centre at Holsworthy.

arker Cadets have had a busy start to the year. In Week 7 we took the Unit to Holsworthy Army Range for the weekend bivouac as part of the preparation for Annual Camp. The weather was very challenging with heavy rain and some strong winds, but the enthusiasm of our Cadets was not dampened and they still undertook some interesting and fun activities. We welcomed 38 new female recruits to Delta Company, who had the opportunity, along with others, to attempt the army overwater obstacle course, the simulated parachute jump from a Hercules, and to fire the laser sighted Styer at the Weapons Training Simulation Centre. Mr Giltrap came to visit us on the Saturday and enjoyed seeing the Cadets in the outdoor environment having fun. It was especially good for him to see the Senior Leaders in action in adverse conditions, keeping morale up and ensuring the camp ran smoothly. In the first week of the holiday, the Unit went to Singleton Military area to complete its week-long annual field exercise in glorious weather. Cadets enjoyed tactical exercises, abseiling, the building of survival shelters and an excellent all Unit activity to complete the week. Mr Doran, Dean of the Senior School, spent a day with us watching what we do and was most impressed with the set-up and smooth running of the operation. Reverend Ware conducted his 26th Bush Chapel on the final evening before Mr Heath gave some inspiring words of wisdom to all assembled. It was a wonderful camp! Philip Gordon BCCU Operations Officer

Top Major Nye instructing Cadets in the Hercules aircraft at Holsworthy Military Centre; Bottom The Head of the Senior school Mr Giltrap with the RSM and SUO at Holsworthy Army Range.

The purpose of the Pioneer Wing is to service the various logistical needs of the Unit with the highest degree of proficiency attainable. Captain Gordon asked members of the Wing a number of questions at the end of camp: Capt Gordon: What does your job entail? CUO Haberlin: As the Pioneer Wing Commander, it is my responsibility to direct the training of my Cadets for the year and ensure the Unit’s logistical requirements are always being met. This involves liaising with both students and staff about what support is needed both on and off camp, and factoring this into home training and camp timetables. As well as this, it is a priority that I ensure the Pioneer Cadets have a good time whilst also supporting the needs of the Unit. Finding time to plan activities that are both fun and worthwhile is a must, however it is understood by both myself and the Pioneer Cadets that the needs of the Unit always come before our own. Capt Gordon: What is the hardest part of your job? CUO Haberlin: The most challenging thing I have experienced this year as Wing Commander would be learning how to work with people to achieve a desired outcome. Having to coordinate up to six timetables is a skill, and when everybody has different things that they want to achieve, it can be challenging. Learning what to sacrifice to create the best outcome possible for the Unit has been very hard, and meeting the requirements and expectations of the School, the Unit and myself has been tricky. However, I believe that this skill is one that will become increasingly useful in the real world. My role in Pioneers has made me learn that sometimes when things go wrong, they are very rarely one person’s fault, and that it is usually a multitude of things that aren’t able to be controlled that cause issues. Starting the year as Wing Commander, I took it personally when things weren’t going quite as I had planned, however, I have now learnt that the only thing you can do in testing circumstances, is try your best to deal with the repercussions and to get back on track.

Capt Gordon: Why did you and your fellow Year 12 Pioneers decide to join? CUO Haberlin (PNR CMD and Power CMD) In my first year of Cadets, whenever I saw the Pioneers, they were constantly busy and always had a smile on their face. From what I could see, they worked hard and looked like they were having fun whilst doing it. I decided to join Pioneers because I wanted a challenge, to learn new skills, as well as to make lasting friends in the process, which I definitely have achieved. CUO Milligan (PNR 2IC and Regimental Signals Officer) For me, I joined the Wing because, from what I saw, it gave the opportunity to expand many qualities and improve leadership skill to the next level. In the last three years, from being in Pioneers, I can happily say that this has happened and I have been left with a second family who I can always count on. CUO Chen (Quartermaster) I joined the Wing largely because, when I was in Delta Company as a new Cadet, I saw how close-knit the Pioneers were and I was also amazed at all the extra skills that they possessed which helped them to perform tasks such as setting up entire camps, running the abseil and creating massive bunkers. Seeing how efficiently they worked with their family-like bond, I knew that I had to at least give it a go and try out. To be honest, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. WO2 Chalmers (Construction CMD) As a recruit, I found myself in an environment where people weren’t committed and didn’t have a high work ethic. To me, Pioneers looked like an environment where the Cadets knew when to work hard and when they could relax and have fun. Pioneers also looked like a place where I could further my cadet skills with other people that were committed to improving theirs, especially in the field of construction. WO2 Sheppard (Abseiling CMD) If I’m honest, when I signed up for Pioneers I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. I’d seen them around camp always doing cool things like the obstacle course, abseiling and construction, which all appealed to me. The rumours of the hard work that they did was outweighed for me by the mateship and family culture that appeared in the way that the Pioneers operated. In the end, I just thought “why not?” and went and tried out. I’m very glad I did. SGT Buffa (Construction 2IC) Joining the Pioneer Wing was one of the greatest decisions I have ever made. I initially tried out for Pioneers because of the tight knit relationships you form and the family culture of the Wing. I saw an opportunity to further my Cadet training and learn specialised skills in the field of construction, whilst forming lifelong friendships with a range of different people.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Capt Gordon: What gives you the most satisfaction? CUO Haberlin: The most satisfying part of my role was getting to the end of a camp, and looking back on everything that we have achieved together as a Wing. I will always be so proud to recall all the things we achieved, be it under tough circumstances like horrible weather, or extreme fatigue. It makes me wonder how we continue to reach our own standards each year, and I always come to the same conclusion, that it is that familial nature of the Wing that

CADETS

Pioneering Cadets

allows us to push through and always get the job done. I really believe that without being as close as we are, the Pioneer Wing would simply not be able to function as well as it does.

SPORTS

Barker Joining The Barker Girls Dance Troupe for the first time was The Barker Boys Dance Crew!

arker Dance was tremendous and totally terrific in 2016! The two teams were absolutely awesome at all the competitions. The routines choreographed by our incredible instructors, Candice Arnold (Jones 05), Isaac Bradley, Neven Connolly and Bianca Saterdag were sensational and stunning. The Hip Hop was filled with tutting and tricks, the Jazz was fiery and fierce, and the Contemporary moving was magnificent. The feedback and scores from the adjudicators at the eisteddfods were excellent. Highly Commended Awards abounded and Barker were placed in the top three at most eisteddfods. A tremendous number of trophies were awarded to our well deserving dancers. 2017 promises to be even more exciting. Technique and talent thrive! Martine Sloper CCC Dance

ISA Open shield

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

A 30

s the Summer drew to a close, so too did the sound of the ring of the bat as it thumps the ball to the fence. The home runs, stealthy stealing, powerful pitching and outstanding catches saw Barker retain the title of the ISA Open shield. This team was a combination of players from all years and a diversity of experience. We are truly proud of our Softball girls. They applied themselves and showed so much improvement over the season. The players represented Barker tremendously. They encapsulated the spirit of Barker Softball with their good sportsmanship, support for one another and smiley faces on and off the field! It was a year where 1st Softball played on the Main Oval. Mr Heath pitched the ceremonial first pitch, having spoken to all the players regarding the need to break down the

perceived barriers, persevere to ensure change continues to take place. A moment in time which marks a new approach. Huge appreciation must go to Miss Laura Southwood who, along with coaches Gabby Chan and Mrs Anne Horne, has energised, encouraged and inspired the players to play beyond their perceived limits and made the team spirit and cohesiveness the keystone of their success. As we farewell our Year 12s, their leadership and skill will be missed. They should be so proud of their own achievements during their time in Barker Softball representing across all levels and including their part in the 21 Barker Premiership wins. Anne Horne Assistant to Deputy Head, Coordinator Co-curricular

SPORTS

Defending the ISA Championship

In the Barker Firsts team, there was much change. Term 4 found a core group of players working hard to build their resilience in a challenging set of circumstances playing with a limited number on the bench. Supported ably by several Seconds players throughout the term, it was a period of much learning for all involved holding fourth position in the table by the end of the first half of the season. In Term 1, the team added four new players providing further depth and experience to the squad. Each game was incredibly tight with Barker showing significant improvement with each week. Qualifying for the Semi-Final, Barker took on Central Coast Grammar School (CCGS) in an unbelievably tight affair with both teams displaying a very strong defensive game. In the end, title favourites CCGS took a brief window of play to go out to a six-point lead and Barker was not able to bridge the gap. Led by Captain Chaylee Reeve, there was much change and development for all members of the Barker Firsts team. At the commencement of the school representative season, Barker had five students selected for the ISA Open Girls Basketball team to play at the NSWCIS Championships in May (pictured L to R): Chaylee Reeve (Yr 12), Piper Duck (Yr 10), Jesse Smith (Yr 10 - Shadow player), Sarah Woodrow (Yr 12) and Serena Waters (Yr 10). This is a terrific result for Barker and an opportunity for all players to further develop their skill and understanding of the game.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

he 2016-17 season was a year of renewal for the Girls Basketball program. Defending the ISA Championship from the previous season was going to be tough due to the high number of Year 12s who left Barker at the end of 2016, giving the remaining members of the team a great opportunity to develop their leadership role in the team. Alongside this, we had many Year 10 students join the program, increasing the overall number of Basketball teams to five, with full squads in every team. All teams played in the ISA Open Divisions and found, as always, a competition with depth at every level keeping scores close and played in an excellent spirit. The support of member schools of the ISA allowed for the introduction of a Barker Inter A team for the second half of the season, giving many new Year 10 players the opportunity to compete alongside the other Barker teams. In what may be a sign of things to come for our sport, this team went on to win all their games with only one loss in over-time to eventual division champions Redlands. Across the entire ISA season, the Barker Fourths showed tremendous improvement in their knowledge and understanding of the game. Qualifying for their Open D Division Semi-Final, this team lost a close Semi-Final to Oakhill College by only six points. Barker Thirds found themselves in a very tough division with every game a highly competitive one, unfortunately missing out on a Semi-Final spot by one point at the end of an entire season. For the Barker Seconds team, they had been locked in a tie with Central Coast Grammar School (CCGS) across the season for the Open C Division title. In what turned out to be a thrilling Grand Final, only a couple of points separated both teams with CCGS going on to take the title by only one point.

Alison Cox Director of Girls' Sport

31 â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

SPORTS

Barker Lions AFL A Roaring Success

he Barker AFL program has seen great success in five short years. In 2017, the Barker Lions are set to field four teams including, for the first time ever, a Barker College 1st XVIII. The program will also field one team in Year 9/10 and an expansion to two teams in Year 7/8. The program caters for those from various sporting backgrounds, as well as varying skill levels. A hallmark of the Barker Lions is the continual development and improvement that all players and teams have illustrated throughout the season. Teams have showed wonderful commitment to the game and continue to get the best out of one another. This highlights the growing success of AFL within the NSW sporting landscape, but particularly at Barker. I look forward to the season ahead, and hope you join me in wishing all the teams good luck for the 2017 season.

Jack Caspersonn AFL Coach

Above The Barker AFL 1sts after their historic first win.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

Swimming Championships

ISA Swimming Championships A return to the legacy meet program in 2017 saw the Barker Girls Swimming Team face the challenge of a very long day of racing at Sydney Olympic Park for this year’s ISA Championships. Led by Captain Ellie Jongma and Vice Captain Meg Baldwin, the team were diligent in their preparation and recovery between events and recorded some outstanding results. Jemima Fitzgerald led the Intermediate team with four individual victories throughout the day. Year 10 students Asha Bennett, Lauren Bird, Lily Flynn, Briellyn Pearson and Maddie Wyndham all won events on the day. The Intermediate Freestyle relay of Annabel Mance, Lauren Bird, Maddie Wyndham and Jemima Fitzgerald set a new ISA record; the same team also winning their Medley relay. Barker was successful in reclaiming the Intermediate trophy. The Senior Girls were unlucky in narrowly missing the Division 1 title this year, finishing just a few points behind Kinross Wolaroi. Portia Timmis won her 50m Freestyle and joined Ellie Jongma, Sophie Fortin and Candice Ryan in claiming 2nd place in the Senior Freestyle relay. Overall, a great day of racing by the Barker team who returned home with the Intermediate Shield. CAS Swimming Championships Shaun Champion, Boys Swimming Captain for 2017, led a team of 34 competitors and a large contingent of reserves into the 86th CAS Swimming Championships in March. Leading by example, Shaun’s dedication and commitment was rewarded as

he set two new CAS records in winning the 17 years 50m Butterfly and Open 100m Butterfly. Lucas Vass was outstanding in winning all four individual events on the night, a rare accomplishment for a swimmer at this event. In fact, Lucas was the highest individual point scorer from any team at the Championships. Barker’s other major point scorers were Stephen Jeong, Freddie Brown, Alex Middleton, Tan Kim and Team Vice Captain, Brandon Murray. The Junior School’s David Kang completed a big program of events and led an emerging group of talented junior swimmers. Overall, Barker consolidated its position on the ladder with Knox Grammar claiming victory over Trinity. Final points were: Knox 549, Trinity 542, Barker 443, Waverley 333.50, St Aloysius' 318.50, Cranbrook 315. Jason Cooper CCC Swimming

SPORTS

Argentina Football Tour Twenty six of Barker's finest Football players departed Sydney International Airport, destined for Argentina on Friday 7 April 2017.

home stadium, where they walked the players’ tunnel up to the pitch – which turned out to be unexpectedly challenging for the taller members of Barker’s team due to the low-set ceiling. Many of the team were instant fans of the Boca blue and yellow. The next destination was Iguazu, which means "big water", and is home to the world-renowned Iguazu Falls; the largest waterfall system in the world. After a walk around the picturesque falls, and a boat ride that left the team drenched, we headed off to the much anticipated first game against local team Galaxia FC at their home ground. The last few days in Buenos Aires were spent at leisure. We enjoyed another amazing stadium tour, this time of River Plate; we visited the local modern art gallery, MALBA; and enjoyed a city tour, walking through some of the main districts of Buenos Aires including Recoleta and the Palermo. The memories from this tour will be something that the staff and students will look back on with gratefulness in years to come.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

he Argentina Football tour was a valuable experience for the Barker Football team, who were strengthened and inspired in their Football abilities, captivated by the local culture, and blown away by the extreme dedication of the Argentinians to Football. Our first Football experience in South America took place at a small private artificial pitch in the suburbs. Sebastian, an Argentinian 3rd division player, and his coaches showed us a range of different skills and drills, incorporating functional fitness activities and fun games. As a result of meeting Sebastian, we were able to go to watch his 3rd Division team, Club Atletico Excursionistas play a fiery fixture. Despite not being the top tier in Argentinian Football, this game is etched in the memories of all the touring squad for multiple reasons: the physicality of the game, the enthusiasm of the crowd, and the unexpected downpour of rain that drenched the students as they sprinted back to the bus. Our next training session was at Boca Juniors. Enjoying its state of the art facilities, the team experienced a world-class training session from coaches who had coached the likes of Tevez and Riquelme. In the afternoon, the tour squad were treated to a personal tour of 'La Bombonera', Boca Juniors

Jonathan Sparks CCC Boys’ Football

SPORTS

Diving Championships

he Red Rockets performed with distinction at the recent CAS Diving Championships. In a night of high drama the Rockets, with Vladi Rudenko and Harry Gresham showing the way, ensured Barker were the early leaders over Trinity 15-11. Also, in the Junior Division, Lachlan Munroe and Lachlan Abbott, both Junior School students showed great courage and performed with brilliance. As the competition moved into the Intermediates, the Rockets withstood a Green avalanche with Harry Gresham, Angus Cummings and Lachlan Abbott scoring valuable points to ensure the Red Rockets maintained their lead going into the Opens. With Barker leading proceedings at the business end of the night, hopes were high but despite the heroic efforts of Vladi Rudenko with Tom O'Malley, Lucy Lake and Angus Cummings in support, it wasn't enough to thwart the Green machine from snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. The night ended with the Red Rockets finishing second for the first time in Diving history. Bring on 2018.

Above Red Rockets pictured after their brilliant 2nd place finish.

Steven Thomlinson Director of Boys' Sport

Track & Field Carnival 2017

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

en School records were broken in total on Thursday April 6, at Barkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual School Track & Field carnival. The weather this year was kind with some cool conditions conducive to some brilliant performances. Donovan Bradshaw broke a total of four records which was an outstanding effort in the 13yrs 100m, 200m, 400m & Long Jump. Other record breakers included Hannah Leechman in the 16yrs Discus, Rachel Fear in the 17yrs Shot Put & Discus, Tiana Death in the 17yrs 100m, Maxi Zihlmann in the 13yrs Discus & Will Lloyd in the Open 100m. Many students also ran personal best times with a few narrowly missing school records. The carnival saw two other carnivals running in conjunction with the School Championships. These were the Tutor Cup and Middle School House Competition. This saw all students involved in activities throughout the day, creating a very positive vibe and a great way to finish the School term.

Left Jonathan Reid takes out the 14yrs 100m hurdles; Right Students from the Senior School participate in The Tunnel Ball Competition.

With such an impressive beginning to Barker athletics in 2017, I would like to encourage each student to come along to training in Term 2 and take full advantage of the excellent athletics program available at Barker. Pre-season training continues on Friday afternoon in Term 2 for all students as well as various speed sessions in the afternoon. Please see Mr Batchler in the PDHPE staffroom for more details. Lee Batchler CCC Track and Field

SPORTS

Clockwise Pete Austin attacking the Flow course; The victorious Div 1 XC Relay Team; Jacqui Pienaar on her way to winning the Div 1 XC.

MTB Championships A fantastic four days of competition at the Australian Interschool Mountain Bike Championships in Thredbo.

Day 4 was the day for the riders with big engines to shine. The Cross Country was held on a technical course with a significant amount of climbing and to get a good result required riders to push themselves to their physical limits. Watching the pained faces as they crossed the finish line was a testament to how hard the students went. Lucas Montgomery and Sam Austin did very well in the large Division 3 field coming 11th and 19th respectively. Lachlan Horsley powered his way to 8th in Division 2. The students in Division 1 were in a very tight tussle with the red and blue kit dominating the front end of the race. In what was an unlucky meet for Captain Courageous Lachie Hinds, he suffered a mechanical failure that saw him move out of the lead and out of contention for the King of the Mountain title. Despite this, the team did a stellar job with Sam Gibson finishing in 10th, Lachie Hinds in 5th and James Culver rounding out the podium in 3rd. The Domination continued in the Female Division 1 race with Jacqui Pienaar and Sally Potter taking home the Gold and Silver medals. Sally’s consistency across the three main events resulted in a well-deserved second in the Queen of the Mountain competition. A feat that was even more impressive seeing as she was soldiering on through illness. A huge thank you must go out to the whole team, especially the families who made the trip to support the students. There was a wonderful atmosphere and this really contributed to the great success of the event. Barker would also like to say a special thank you to Roger and Kerry Montgomery who very generously donated a bike trailer to the School, making it significantly easier for the team to compete at events like the Interschools.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

he event pits competitors against other athletes from schools around Australia based on three school year based divisions; Division 3 for Years 7 and 8, Division 2 for Years 9 and 10 and Division 1 for Years 11 and 12. We weren’t long off the bus before experiencing our first success with James Culver, Sam Gibson, and MTB Captain, Lachie Hinds, dominating the competition and taking out the Division 1 Short Track Cross Country Relay title. Day 2 saw the first of the Down Hill competitions using the Flow Motion trail. Descending from the top of Crackenback lift to the bottom of the mountain in only a few minutes, this competition required speed, agility and nerves of steel. In a field of 480 riders, it was always going to be very tough to make the top 10. The whole team did extremely well with Pete Austin placing 10th in Division 2, James Culver placing 5th in Division 1 and Sally Potter just missing out on the win in Division 1, coming in 2nd by a few seconds. Day 3 saw riders competing in what most would argue is the blue ribbon event for the meet, the Down Hill. Taking a more direct line down the mountain, navigating some big rock gardens and flying off a number of big drops, makes this event even more challenging and daunting than the Flow Motion. Some of the most outstanding performances were Lucas Montgomery coming 9th in Division 3, Pete Austin 18th in Division 2, Lachie Hinds 7th in Division 1 and Sally Potter showing great form again coming 3rd in Division 1. Day 3 also saw the Pump Track Challenge, an event that requires riders to use their ability to maintain speed and generate momentum without pedalling around a flat pump track. Jason McCoy flew the flag proudly, coming in 10th position in the challenge.

Evan Snow Acting MTB Coordinator

SPORTS

Clockwise from left to right Competition is tight in the girls beach flags at the Bungan Beach SLSC Club Championships; Year 10 Bronze Medallion candidates concentrate on their spinal rescue training; The boys compete in beach flags at the Bungan Beach SLSC Club Championships.

Surf Life Saving

arker’s 29th season at Bungan Beach has been another momentous one. This has been the first season wherein Years 7 and 8 have joined us. This will lead to an upskilling of our patrollers in future and will allow us to compete across the range of year groups as we take on the might of Shore, Riverview and Joeys. As we transition to being fully coeducational, the same will be true for the girls.

•

• Other highlights of the season were: • Taking a creditable third place at the Bungan-Whale Challenge • Helping with water safety at the Murray Rose Malabar Magic Ocean Swim

A Place for ‘Time Out’

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

T 36

he sounds of cheering, laughter and general chatter mix with the sounds of many feet running and basketballs being bounced around the MPH at ‘Time Out’ Basketball fortnightly on Tuesday evenings. This is the third year this program has been running and many participants have been involved since the start. It continues to grow and provide an avenue for students with special needs in the wider community to improve their physical skills, to learn about teamwork and simply to have fun with their friends from Barker. The Year 9 Seniors, as well as volunteers from among the Year 11 students, have proven to be wonderful leaders and ambassadors for Barker in this activity. As well as providing help in developing physical and social skills, with warmth and enthusiasm, the Barker students learn to appreciate the abilities of our participants and, as a parent of one of our visitors put it, they “see past the disabilities”. Helen Graham Dean of Individual Programs

The unprecedented (and unrivalled in the Northern Beaches) number of students gaining their Silver Medallion IRB Driver’s Awards Efficient, effective and on more than one occasion lifesaving, patrolling of Bungan Beach Being the only Barker sport in operation on the day of the famous heat wave.

Matthew Lloyd Co-curricular Coordinator Surf Life Saving

BCPA

From the BCMA

erm 1 was a busy one for the BCMA. Apart from our yearly morning teas to welcome new and current parents to the new school year, we also held two major events. The Trivia Night was held on 18 March and we had over 400 parents attend. Guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of games and having their knowledge tested. What a magnificent weekend 43 mothers had at the Mothers' Escape to the Grange. The Friday night involved an Italian style dinner and lots of chatter, followed by an early night for all to get ready for the following day’s activities. For those who were game, it was up for an early brisk Tone and Stretch class followed by breakfast. Horse riding, massages, high tea and bush walking filled up Saturday daytime with

many women challenging themselves to try something different and a bit out of their comfort zone! Saturday night involved a red carpet event with sunset drinks on the verandah, a 'Bollywood banquet’, followed by a silver screen movie favourite, 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' with the essential popcorn! Sunday morning saw the brave join in a recovery Tone and Stretch class before a hearty breakfast and a quick pack-up before people ventured to Bilpin apple-picking, Leura for shopping and the Three Sisters for some sight-seeing and a bit more bushwalking. A great weekend enjoyed by a whole galaxy of stars! Alison Finnegan & Yvonne Goldman BCMA Presidents

Barker College Parents' Association

We would like to pause now for a moment to reflect on the BCMA's history and thank those women who have fostered friendship and fundraised for the past 91 years. Without your wonderful work Barker would not be what it is today. We will continue to foster this wonderful tradition. Moving forward we welcome fathers and guardians to the Association. We look forward to an even brighter future knowing that together we can all support Barker and be an inclusive community.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

ednesday 10 May was an historic night for the BCMA. A meeting was held in the Sue Field Room to vote on changing its name from the Barker College Mothers' Association to the Barker College Parents' Association. Doing this allows us to be inclusive of everyone and broadens our membership to include fathers and guardians. The vote carried the motion in support of the change. So we are proud to announce that we are now a parent body representative of all parents and guardians and will hereby be known as the BCPA, the Barker College Parents' Association.

Alison Finnegan & Yvonne Goldman BCMA Presidents

MASTER PLAN

Master Plan Planning for the Future

Barker has been located on its current site since 1895 and successive generations of leaders and families have contributed to the beautiful campus we see today.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

aturally the educational landscape has changed immeasurably within that time and as such development work and refurbishment of key spaces are a key part of Barker’s Master Plan in order to provide the best facilities for our students. Our School dreams of contributing to a sense of hope, of confidence and capacity for young learners. We are thinking of the students of Barker today, whilst building with the future in mind. Construction is close to completion on new seating in the north-east corner of Barker’s No 1 Oval. The purpose of this seating is to provide comfort and shade for the Senior School students who gather in that part of the School for their recess and lunch times. It will also provide a magnificent viewing area for events held on the main oval. Construction will begin on our new Junior School class rooms towards the middle of the year. This exciting development will bring the youngest members of the Barker community within the fold of the Junior School. The building itself captures the essence of a future focused teaching and learning space; light and open, with maker spaces and areas for groups to gather together. It also allows greater access to the vast resources on the main campus. Flexible and engaging spaces will provide the Prep students with every opportunity to begin their Barker journey in the best possible learning environment. The C-Block building is central to the teaching and learning program in the Secondary School and the Upper

C-Block refurbishments have been completed to create a more contemporary feel in the rooms. The provision of large white boards, maps showcasing world history and full length wall decals along the external walls give students and teachers the opportunity to make the environment a part of the students’ learning journey. Plans are currently with Hornsby Council for our Sports Complex development on the corner of The Avenue and Unwin Road. A state of the art, purpose designed and built facility will provide five court spaces, gym and exercise spaces, rooms for dance, general purpose teaching areas, a café, viewing platform and parking for over 150 cars. This space will allow us to showcase sporting events, hold full School assemblies and gatherings as well as providing a space for the wider community to access. Careful thought has been placed on the design of this space so that it will blend into the existing landscape and respect the way in which the environment shapes down the hill, and the way in which light operates across the surface of our grounds. Given the successive years of planning and the foresight of previous Barker Councils, we are fortunate to have a large campus and are able to retain our green spaces. These green spaces allows us to accommodate a range of student activities across all areas of the School whilst maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable campus. The future at Barker is looking very exciting as these projects start to take shape. Watch the Masterplan video here.

ARCHIVES

The Chapel’s Diamond Anniversary 2017 marks the 60th anniversary of the Barker College War Memorial Chapel. Yet the history of this significant building began many years earlier.

Over the years, the Chapel has undergone minor alterations and new furnishings have been added. The pipe organ, a gift from the Old Boys Union, was added and dedicated in 1961. The School’s centenary in 1990 saw the installation of the stained glass windows and in 1994, the BCMA gifted 400 tapestry kneelers. Since 1957, the Chapel has become central to the life of the School and its Christian mission. It stands tall and proud in the School grounds, and is a place for the Barker community to explore and experience the love of Christ. Morwenna Dixon Manager of Archives THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

n 1919, the newly formed Barker College Council engaged architect Howard Joseland to prepare a master plan for the School. The plan included classrooms, dormitories and a sandstone chapel estimated to cost £3,000. It was not until 1927 however, that fundraising began. By early 1929, £2,000 had been raised and plans were drawn. However, declining enrolments and financial difficulties caused by the depression, forced the Council to postpone all building work. Building was further delayed by World War Two, and post-war building shortages meant the cost had escalated to £35,000. In late 1955, the contract for the Chapel was signed on the premise that building would only go as far as funds permitted, with brick being substituted for sandstone. Fowell, Mansfield and Maclurcan were engaged as the architects and HW Thompson Pty Ltd was responsible for construction. The Foundation Stone was finally laid on 28 April 1956 by Archbishop Howard Mowll, with 1,200 parents, friends and old boys sharing in the occasion. The Chapel was completed in mid-1957. Its official dedication on 10 August 1957 was considered a most joyous day in the life of the School. The first official service was held on the following day with the confirmation of 21 students. As a war memorial, the Chapel commemorates the 92 old boys who lost their lives in the major wars of the last century.

Clockwise The southern face of the Chapel under construction, 1956; Program for the official opening and dedication of the Barker College War Memorial Chapel, 1957; Archbishop Howard Mowll laying the Chapel’s Foundation Stone, 1956.

FOUNDATION THE BARKER | WINTER 2017

The Barker College Foundation held its second fundraising dinner on Thursday 4 May to support Darkinjung Barker. It was a truly wonderful evening and we are very grateful to Westpac for their hospitality at their amazing Barangaroo venue.

e joined together with 100 guests and delighted in sharing the story of the first twelve months of Darkinjung Barker through video footage of daily life of the staff and students. During dinner we were entertained by one of Barkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s String Quartets before the Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath, made his address. Our Master of Ceremonies was Uncle Ray Minniecon and the guest speakers included the CEO of Westpac, Brian Hartzer; Chair of the Barker Council, Peter Berkley; Deputy Chair of the Barker Council, Catherine Crouch; and Sean Gordon, the Chief Executive Officer of the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council.

If you would like information on our next fundraising dinner to support Indigenous Education please contact the Director of Alumni and Development, Mrs Mandy Loomes on (02) 9847 8229 or mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Darkinjung Barker, please click on the Donations icon on the home page of the Barker College website, www.barker.nsw.edu.au and follow the links to Barker Barang.

THE OLD BARKER

Bill Coaldrake, Class of 1970 receives the Royal Victorian Order.

Remarkably, Bill discovered that a perfect scale model of the Mausoleum existed in the Royal Collection. It had been shown at the Japan-British Exhibition at White City in London, then in Kew Gardens, and finally dismantled and consigned to safe keeping among other objects in a secret location. Bill personally dedicated himself to convincing the powers that be that the model should be transported back to Japan and reconstructed at Zojoji temple in Tokyo. It is now on display to the public as a symbolic connection between old Edo and the British Royal family. Mr Timothy Hitchens CMG LVO, the British Ambassador to Japan, when presenting Bill with the Order, said "Few who know Bill will have managed not to become well-versed in this story.....you persuaded the Royal Collection to allow you to uncover..... then through personal determination.....transport it to Japan....You have stayed with the project through its many ups and downs, taking personal responsibility beyond what could reasonably have been expected, determined that this wonderful artefact of the Royal Collection could be preserved and seen by as many Japanese and visitors as was humanly possible."

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

ctober 13, 2016 was a delightful Autumn evening in Tokyo. There, before a distinguished group of invited guests assembled at the British Embassy, Professor William Howard Coaldrake MVO FAHA was invested as a member of the Royal Victorian Order for "services to the Royal Collection". This award is the personal order of Her Majesty The Queen and recognises distinguished direct service to Her Majesty. The story behind this gala occasion is as fascinating as is Bill Coaldrake's dedication and resolve to see through to completion the project that earned him the award. Over a period of some 20 years, he persuaded the Royal Collection to allow him to uncover, document and finally restore a little known treasure - a grand model of the Taitokuin Reibyo, or Taitokuin Mausoleum. This large-scale replica of an architectural icon of old Edo, was made in Tokyo in 1909-10, then given to King George V. The original building, along with much of Tokyo, was destroyed during WWII. Bill's father, Canon Frank Coaldrake, was the first Australian missionary to enter Japan after the war. As Bill said in his acceptance speech, "when he arrived in 1947 Tokyo was just a great sea of ashes and rubble. Later I realised that the Taitokuin Mausoleum was part of that desolation."

THE OLD BARKER

Inside this

43 OBA President 44 OBA Groups 47 Community Events

OBA GROUPS

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

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

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

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

School Contacts Director of Alumni and Development Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 (Sch) mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Alumni Reunion Coordinator Karina Drummond (02) 9847 8283 (Sch) kdrummond@barker.nsw.edu.au Manager of Archives Morwenna Dixon (02) 9847 8290 (Sch) mdixon@barker.nsw.edu.au Interstate and International Barker Contacts Brisbane Andrew Wilkie (01) 0412 779 383 (m) andrew.wilkie@morgans.com.au Canberra Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281(m) mccoll@grapevine.net.au Melbourne Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407 (m) murray@capricorngroup.net.au Northern Rivers Jim Poulos (61) (02) 6686 7711 (h) pamio@bigpond.net.au Perth Tom Hargreaves (69) 0437 906 588 (m) tom.hargreaves@inpex.com.au Sunshine Coast Phil Benjamin (61) pandj.benjamin@bigpond.com

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

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

50 Personal Notes 53 Obituaries

Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au Canada, Ontario George Darling (70) george.darling@hatch.com Japan Carl Bastian (93) bastianinternational@msn.com Middle East Erik Huyer (72) +6 39175302744 (m) erikhuyer@gmail.com New Zealand Scott Brown (91) (64) 027 230 4561 (w) scott@hipgroup.co.nz Oceania (Fiji) Neil Underhill (75) (679) 336 3968 (w) neilunderhill@connect.com.fj Papua New Guinea Johnson Kalo (83) (675) 305 6703 (w) jkalo@bsp.com.pg Singapore Carly Switzer (94) carlyswitzer@yahoo.com.au UK, London Annette French (Slattery 88) (44) 1732 382 281 (h) annette.e.french@sky.com USA, East Coast Andrew Renton (85) (910) 612 5671 arenton1@mac.com USA, West Coast Digby Cook (56) 623 523 4321 digbyhcook@gmail.com

FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

President’s

The second name is Sammy Seaberg, who was the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Unit from 1932 until 1958. The OBA presents the Seaberg Memorial Award each year at the BCCU Ceremonial Parade to the cadet who has made the greatest contribution to the unit in their senior years. This award is regarded as the highest honour presented on the day. It is right that the OBA takes the opportunity to acknowledge staff who had such a positive impact on our members and to acknowledge the importance of the traditions and the history of the School. As I write this, the School community has recently completed another stirring Anzac Day memorial service to honour those former students who have served this country in times of war and, in particular, to pay respect to the 92 old boys who gave their lives in conflict. The whole School gathered on the lawn above the OBA Sound Stage and listened in silence as the names of the fallen were read by the Head. As each name was announced, a student placed a white cross on the lawn as a mark of respect for the sacrifice made. As we sat under a clear blue sky, we imagined these men and gave thanks for what they did to allow us the fortunate life we enjoy today. Of course, we must also look to the future and we spend considerable time building connections with the current students who will become our members upon the completion of Year 12. The recent sports day for Hockey, Netball and Football was a valuable opportunity for our old girl affiliates to once again play on the School grounds. For the students, it was a chance to see there were OBA teams they could join if they wished to continue to play sport after School. The role of the OBA is to look both ways - to honour and respect our past whilst also developing our future. Tony Gamson (78) OBA President

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

s OBA President I have the pleasure of attending a number of functions each year as a representative of the alumni of Barker. To date, these events have ranged from the New Parent’s Dinner to the OBA Over 70s Lunch. For the parents commencing their children’s journey through Barker, it is an exciting time. Of course, many of these new parents are alumni returning to the School and they are proud to be able to give their own children a Barker education. Around 20% of each year’s intake of new students are descendants of alumni and the School can take satisfaction that so many alumni make this choice. At the other end of the spectrum, for those attending the Over 70s lunch it is a matter of remembering past glories and maintaining old friendships. These men, and at the moment they are all men as it will be a few years before the Class of 1976 reach this milestone, left Barker over 50 years ago and yet the connection they feel is as strong as the day they completed their schooling. The bond is particularly felt amongst those who were boarders as for them the School was their family for much of the time throughout their formative years. These boarders came from country families or from overseas and so trips home were only possible during school holidays. It is wonderful to hear them talk with such joy about those times. What is also remembered is the impact members of the teaching staff had on the lives of the Over 70s. Two names in particular, keep coming up. The first is Bill Leslie, the Headmaster from 1933 to 1957, who is always referred to as “The Boss”. He ran a tight ship and kept the boys in line through a combination of discipline and kindness. For many boys he was also a father figure, especially for those boarders away from their own families. I have been told that, whilst not all the boys liked him, he had the respect of each and every one. A group of the Over 70s who were at the School during that period proudly call themselves the “Leslie’s Men” and have created a scholarship fund in his honour.

OBA GROUPS

Groups Barker Old Boys

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Barker Old Boys Cricket Club experienced another successful season in the 2016/17 City & Suburban Cricket competition. A total of 42 players donned the BOBs cap this year, with a core squad forming for each of the Jack Pace competition rounds. The club performed admirably throughout the Jack Pace Memorial Shield Competition, however just missed out on finals qualification due to a wash-out round. The remaining fixtures of the season were hard fought, enjoyable matches. Highlights included victories against Hunters Hill and Old Cranbrookians, and a close contest against Knox Old Boys. A special recognition must go to Andrew Newton (05) for amassing 357 runs this season at an average of 71.40. He was one of the main contributors towards our wins this season.

Club

The club awards went to the following players:Season 2016/17 MVP: Andrew Newton (05) Batsman of the Year: Andrew Newton (05) Bowler of the Year: Jackson Brackin (12) Fielder of the Year: Tom Burnett (05) Rookie of the Year: Sam Carrick (16) It was an honour for many of the club cricketers to be invited back to represent the OBA XI versus the current First XI on Number 1 Oval. Once again the 1st XI proved too powerful over the T20 format, reaching the modest total of 110 with ease! Hopefully this event reminds School leavers that they can maintain a connection with Barker post Year 12 and that they can play a game for the Barker Old Boys Cricket Club. The club wishes to express its gratitude to all staff at Barker College and the Old Boys Association, who contributed in various ways towards our successes in season 2016/17. A special thanks to Club President Paul Goncharoff for organising the fixtures list, representing the club at Old Boys Association meetings and maintaining the finances every year. We now look forward to a successful season ahead and continuing the proud tradition of success and mateship that the Barker Old Boys Cricket Club has fostered over its rich history of competition. Matt Hall (00) 0416 297 775 matt.hall19@icloud.com

Sam Haeney (05) 0413 766 207 sam.haeney@gmail.com

Barker Old Girls

Club

BOGS are competing in the Women's North Shore Hockey Competition Division 1. With the team proving to be very strong this season, BOGs have been successful in winning all their games so far and are hoping to continue with their positive results for the rest of the season. BOGS train at Barker on Thursday nights on Bowman Field and games are played on Sunday at Pennant Hills Sports Park or Keith Thompson Hockey Centre in Ryde. The competition runs for approximately 18 weeks and it is not too late to join our team. BOGs were also invited to participate in the Barker Sports Day held at Barker in a game against the current School girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Hockey team. This is a game BOGs always look forward to as the school girls really test our fitness and skills. Fortunately BOGs were able to come away from the game with a great win. It was also a great opportunity to encourage current Barker Hockey players to join us next year.

We are always looking for new players to join our Club as it is a great way to stay fit and socialise so please email us at barkeroldgirlshockey@gmail.com or find us on Facebook if you are interested in playing with us this year or next. Laura Handel (06) President, BOGs Hockey

Below BOGs v Mirrabooka with a 3-1 win.

Club

Season 2017 is now well and truly underway. After a rain disrupted pre-season, all seven OBFC teams are in full swing and battling it out each weekend against teams from across the North Shore. After a slow start, the Club’s Premier League Squad is starting to climb its way up the ladder with solid results over the last couple of weeks. With strong recruitment from 2016 School leavers, there is plenty of youth and pace associated with this squad and as the season continues these youngsters will quickly adapt and get used to the much more physical nature of the Men’s All Age Competition as opposed to the schoolboy football they are probably more used to. Following their promotion from Division 6 last season, the new Division 5 (Blue) squad is already blowing the competition away with the Reserve Grade team coming first and the First Grade team coming second. These guys will only get better as the season progresses and I have full confidence that they will finish in the top two and gain an immediate promotion to Division 4 for 2018! The Division 5 (Red) squad is also looking strong with a number of solid wins already under their belt. The highlight of the Division 5 season will almost certainly be when the two squads come together for the first ever OBFC Derby in late May, flares and all!

Barker Old Girls

For the first time in the Club’s history, our Women’s team is competing in Division 1 of the Women’s All Age competition. It’s certainly a step up from last year’s Division 2 experience where the girls finished 2nd, but they’re stepping up to the challenge and after a couple of tough losses to start the season they recently came away with a massive 3-0 victory over Berowra and their confidence will only grow from here. Peter Gregory (03) President Old Barker Football Club

Club In March, Barker Old Girls Netball had the opportunity to play the very well drilled Barker Netball 1sts and 2nds in a trial match as part of the Back to Barker Girls sports gala day which saw the Old Girls teams of Netball, Hockey and Football play the Barker teams in trial matches to prepare them for their upcoming seasons. Whilst you can probably guess the results from the two games that were played, we all had an enjoyable morning playing back in the Barker Gym and aiming for a surprise upset which unfortunately never eventuated. Thank you to the Old Barker Association for organising this event and we look forward to playing the Barker teams again next year. We wish the Barker Girls sports teams all the best for their upcoming season and hope to see you playing in Old Girls colours after Year 12. Barker Old Girls Netball is taking a bit of a break over the winter season to refresh and will regroup for the Spring Night Competition, which begins in September. Information about this competition will be sent out in July, so please keep an eye on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/barker.netball for more information. See you out on the courts! Lauren Kirkby (07) Co-President Barker Old Girls Netball

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Barker Old Girls Netball has had a busy Summer competition which ended in April with a Grand Final win for Shannon Ashton (15) and her team. The girls had a convincing win over Normanhurst 32-12. These girls have played consistently over their three seasons playing for Barker Old Girls, making the final each time and narrowly missing out so this game marks their first Grand Final win. Congratulations to Shannon Ashton (15), Kathryn Aisbett (15), Amber Clark (15), Christina Gell (15), Jordan Griffiths (15), Natasha Spencer (15), Elizabeth West (15) and Nicole Wilson (15) for their superb effort.

OBA GROUPS

Old Barker

OBA GROUPS

BOBs The 2017 season is upon us. Saturday 22 April marked the first game of the year and the boys are hungry for a win. As many are aware, we are coming off the back end of a tough season last year. However, after having played various trial matches over the past few weeks, the games ahead are looking tremendously promising. Over the pre-season, the grade team and the Colts team, played four different clubs, only recording one loss collectively. The quality of rugby in the club this year has shown to be second to none. The grade boys have done a great deal in trying to resurrect the team that so graciously made the Grand Final two years ago. A further mention should go out to the new young colts who have promoted the club to the Class of 2016.

The club needs all your support in the 2017 season. We have just moved to Division 3 and are excited to test the waters and see what this competition can throw at us. As always, the club welcomes everyone regardless of your skill level. Come down on a Wednesday night to training at Turramurra Oval or Saturday and get a taste for what the club is about. Thomas Hay (14) Secretary www.facebook.com/barkeroldboysrufc www.bobsrugby.org

OBA This June marked a first for the OBA music program as the OBA Big Band and the OBA Symphonic Wind Band performed in collaboration. In the months leading up to the big event, both bands prepared repertoire with a world music theme. Friends, family and die-hard fans gathered in Leslie Hall on 4 June, admiring the versatility of each band as they presented such an eclectic mix of repertoire.

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

Luke Davis (09) OBA Big Band Representative

Old Barker Theatre OBAT relies on the support and contributions of the wider Barker Alumni community and, though we are eternally grateful to our unwavering supporters, we are always on the look-out for more old Barker thespians willing to get involved and to help this society grow into something special and as best a reflection of the enormous support given to the dramatic arts by Barker as possible. As ever, if you would like to be involved... please reach out. You can contact us at: obatheatre@live.com or visit us on Facebook facebook.com/Obatheatre

Over Have you turned 70? If so, there is an organisation for you. The Over 70s run a number of events each year and are a social group. Our next event will be our Annual General Meeting, lunch and Rugby here at School on Saturday 5 August. Invitations and more information will be sent out soon. If you would like further information, please contact Mandy Loomes in the Alumni Office on (02) 9847 8229 or over70s@barker.nsw.edu.au Peter Ward (59)

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Amie McNee (10) Co-President, OBAT

OBA The NSW athletics season was a mixed one for our team. We had a few members recording personal bests, were represented at the ACT Championships and one member represented the club at the Australian National Championships. Unfortunately a few injuries came at inopportune times. It has been great to have had a current student training with us semi-regularly as well. Now we are enjoying the off-season! Tim Willatt (07)

OBA GROUPS

Below left to right Will Capon, Liam Windel, Hannah Lanz, Jos Binet.

Events Class of 2015 On 15 February, over 170 of Barker’s Class of 2015 descended upon Oxford Street for our first-year reunion cocktail party. Things have changed since we finished School. We’ve done a lot of growing up over the first year of life beyond the Mint Gates – travelling, working and facing further study. Nevertheless, despite the different directions our lives have taken, it was incredible to see just how much common history we all share. Friends had the chance to reconnect, stories were told and new memories were made. Added to that, the remaining proceeds went to Darkinjung Barker. Maintaining these strong connections for one year out of School might not be the greatest achievement in the world, but we take it as a sign that no matter where we end up, we will still all be the kids who grew up at Barker. Back left to right Mitch Wright, Kirsty Van den Berg;

Nick Chang and Ben Jones

Front left to right Georgina Griffiths, Claire Paynter, Tom Davis, David Huang.

Over 70s Back to Barker Day

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

It is always a special day in the School’s calendar when our Over 70s come back to Barker to enjoy a day at School. This year they joined us on Wednesday 17 May with the day starting in the Prep School. Music, Art and the Hokey Pokey were just some of the morning's activities that our Over 70s enjoyed with the Prep students before they shared morning tea together. They then joined Years 3 and 5 for Maths lessons working on problems including area & perimeter. Finally, our Over 70s gathered to enjoy a picnic lunch in the Multi-Purpose Hall. The day was a joyous one for students, staff and our Over 70s.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

OBA The OBA Affiliates function was held on Thursday 6 April at the Kirribilli Hotel. It was a lovely evening which saw alumni from many of the OBA Affiliate groups and the OBA Committee come together for a relaxed, social catch-up. It is always a great opportunity for everyone to gather together to reminisce about their Barker days, talk about their latest adventures along with their own personal experiences of being a part of an OBA Affiliate Club.

OBA v Barker On Thursday 23 February the annual T20 cricket match was held between the OBA Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s XI and the Barker 1st XI on Barker Oval on a beautiful, pleasant afternoon. Umpires for the match were old boys Chris Russell (70) and Keith Thornton (64), both of whom relished their role for the afternoon. The OBA team batted first scoring 110 runs, which appeared competitive at the time. The Barker team went out and scored the required runs in 15.5 overs without losing a wicket. It was a rather dominant performance and illustrated why they were one of the gun sides in the CAS competition. The Barker Cricket Club manned the BBQ allowing both teams and supporters to enjoy a sausage sizzle together, which was a fantastic way to end the day.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

OBA

We were delighted to have the inaugural Girls Sports Gala day at Barker on Saturday 25 March. The OBA girls sport teams: Football, Hockey and Netball competed against the Barker teams as part of their trial program for their upcoming seasons. Thankfully the rain, that had been so prevalent for so much of March, stayed away allowing all the matches to go ahead. For many of our Old Girls, this was the first time they had returned to School to play their respective sports since graduating and they loved it - perhaps not all the results on the field but definitely that Barker spirit and comradery. At the end of the games, all teams gathered in the Sue Field Room for morning tea, where there were lots of smiles and lots of chat. We are really looking forward to this event next year.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Top Sam Pratten (58), Phil Bailey (57) & Phil Bronger (57); Below Neil Marks (56) & Tony Gresham OAM (58)

Over 70s

Neil’s final responsibility on this occasion was to make a presentation to Tony Gresham OAM (58). Tony is an outstanding amateur golfer and was presented with a framed photo of his achievements, awards and victories. Tony played for Australia in the Eisenhower Trophy for 14 years and won the French and British amateur championships. Tony Sherlock (58) formally thanked Neil Marks for his highly entertaining presentation, bringing the happy occasion to a close. David Maynard (53) Over 70s Committee

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

The Over 70s annual luncheon held at Hornsby RSL on Tuesday 14 March was attended by 118 guests. Geoff Little (58) introduced our guest speaker, Neil Marks (56), truly a Barker legend in his own life time. Neil came to Barker in 1951 and was in the 1st XI Cricket team from 1952 until his final year in 1956. He captained the team in 1955-56, and played in the CAS 1st XI from 1953-56, which he captained in 1955 and 1956. He was a prefect and played as half-back for the 1st XV in 1955 and in 1956, the miraculous occasion when Barker beat Waverley for the first time. Neil scored 203 v St Aloysius in 1956 and 171 against them in 1954. He has done a lot of coaching for the School and served on the School Council from 1979–2007. He and his wife, Kay, have three daughters, all of whom have been educated at Barker. Neil has written five books including “Tales of the Century,” which is highly recommended, and copies are still available from the Alumni and Development Office. His address was mostly a conversation between himself and a highly receptive and sympathetic audience about events and personalities including R B Finlay, J P Guinane and the Boss, Bill Leslie.

PERSONAL NOTES

Personal (Number in brackets is the alumni year)

David Mould (52) lives in Inverell and celebrated his 80th birthday in March. David would love to hear from his classmates. John Cocks (53) I am thoroughly enjoying life following retirement from my surgical practice some 17 years ago, spending considerable time travelling, with both golf, and more recently swimming, in mind. Last year was wonderfully successful with Masters swimming in my new 80-84 age group, so much so that I was recently presented with the Victorian Masters Sports Award for 2016, having managed a World Record in the 200 Individual Medley, as well as 20 National and 30 Victorian records encompassing all four strokes, over a variety of distances. This also resulted in being named in the World’s fastest Top 10 in 26 individual events in this age group. All quite unexpected, but exciting. I might say that my training has been far more intensive than that when Mr Miller was coach at School in 1952 and 1953, and more importantly, survival obviously helps. Recently had a meal with Brian Allen (53) and wife Gillian, when I was competing on the Gold Coast last month, and see other ‘active old boys’ Peter Bedggood (53) and Frank Smith (51) from time to time, and of course, Steve Lamy (67) who is also a Masters swimmer of considerable national note. Roger Goldfinch (64) My wife Anne and I have moved to Wagga Wagga from our vineyard in the Hunter after 16 years of viticultural madness. We would like to hear from any old boys around my vintage in the Wagga or greater Riverina area.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Mike Ling (65) After an entire working life spent in metro areas, I have gone back to my small town roots and retired to the small south-west WA town of Bridgetown. The lack of bustle and rush is bliss!

John Sperring (70) is semi-retired, although still serving part-time in the Navy Reserve and with Defence Force Cadets. He has been travelling with wife Sandra to places where Bruce Paton (70) and his wife Kerry had been so have been comparing experiences and sights of Cuba and the Galapagos Islands. John is soon off to Nepal for a month and has been growing a beard for the wind and cold. Additionally John gets involved with Air Force Cadets taking them on trips to see places of Australian Military and Cultural significance. Bruce Paton (70) and John Sperring (70) from Carter House boarding house days caught up over lunch at Wollongong. Bruce, with wife Kerry, had recently returned

from a trans-Pacific crossing in their yacht 'Haven'. Bruce, a retired obstetriciangynaecologist, has been sailing the ocean with his extended family now for a few years, most recently from the Caribbean to New Zealand via the Panama Canal islandhopping across the Pacific. Bruce and Kerry are temporarily back in their home at Maitland catching up with family events prior to flying back to New Zealand to prepare 'Haven' for a voyage to Tonga and Fiji. John Sperring (70) caught up with Greg Winkler (70) recently in Sydney when Greg and wife Maureen were over from Massachusetts USA to visit family. John & Greg caught up over a soccer match which Greg's daughter was captaining. Greg has recently retired from a teaching career at private and church schools on the east coast of America, advising that he had caught up with other US-based Barker old Boys at the Barker Reunion in the New Year. Greg and Maureen live on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Nicholas Stevenson (81) attended Barker with his two brothers Timothy (79) and Christopher (80) and his sister Megan (77). Nick is now Assistant Principal at Fisher Road, Dee Why. It is a school for children with moderate to severe disabilities. Nick teaches PECS which is a system where children can communicate when they cannot speak. In 2014, Nick had a book published which was a translation from the Latin on "How Constantine Became Emperor". In 2016, Nick achieved his PhD with his topic "Biblical Studies”. This year Nick plans to do a course in Middle Egyptian hieroglyphics so he can do further translations. Submitted by Ronda Stevenson. Ross King (97) After 15 years of service as a pilot in the RAAF flying the C-130J Hercules, I left to join the airlines. For three years I operated Boeing jet aircraft on short haul domestic routes for a major airline group before re-joining the RAAF in 2016 as a specialist pilot flying the Boeing 737 aircraft. Laura and I are happily established in Canberra and loving the quality of life with our three children. The first Barker reunion for the Class of 2034 was held on 11 February 2017 at the Christening of Owen Leslie Russell – son of David Russell (97) and grandson of Chris Russell (70).

Angelique Tot (13) recently performed the title role of Carmen for Central Coast Opera in her first operatic role. It was an exciting opportunity to take in this iconic femme fatale role. The production was being performed in a new English translation written by the director, Tim Page. Owen was joined by Samuel Cutler, son of Alex Cutler (97) and Jo, Hugh Warden, son of Ian Warden (97) and Sheena (Knox 98) and Bjorn McQuilty son of Matt McQuilty (97) and Natasha. A fantastic time was had by all between nappy changes and bouts of drinking (milk!) and much celebration was to be had after a very fecund year for our 1997 leavers.

Left to right 1997 leavers at the Christening party for Owen Leslie Russell - Matt McQuilty with Bjorn, David Russell with Owen, Alex Cutler with Sam and Ian Warden with Hugh.

Ashlea (Hunter 03) and Adam Zivanovic (03) were engaged in August, 2014. Reverend Jeff Ware officiated at their marriage in April 2015, with Lyndon Walker (03) and Matthew Clarke (03) as groomsmen. They welcomed a daughter, Natasha Joy Zivanovic, in November 2015. Natasha was baptised in the Barker Chapel in May 2016, by Reverend Jeff Ware, with Lyndon Walker (03) as Godfather. Eugene Chan (07) After working as a tax and insolvency litigation lawyer for several years, Eugene will be pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, reading the Bachelor of Civil Law, in 2017-2018. Eugene will return to Australia in 2019 to accept his appointment as a judge associate for a Federal Court judge. Heidi See (Gregson 09) won a bronze medal in the Women’s 4 x 800 metres relay final at the IAAF/BTC World Relays on 22 April 2017 in Nassau, Bahamas.

PERSONAL NOTES

Left Barker Family photo left to right: Katherine Russell (01), Chris Russell (70), Diah Russell with Owen (2034), David Russell (97) Jenetta Russell (sister of Chris), Peter Russell (99), and Gill Russell (wife of Chris).

Bec Black (16) has signed a four year contract with the University of San Francisco to play basketball. She will be studying to be a physiotherapist whilst playing Division 1 NCAA Basketball on a full scholarship. Josh Robins (16) has been awarded a four year Scholarship with the prestigious Division 1 Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles commencing in August this year for his expertise as a Baseball Pitcher. Whilst at Barker Josh represented the School at the highest levels playing Basketball, Volleyball and Athletics. Because Baseball is not offered at Barker, for many years Josh had to find time for his Baseball training and games whilst still ensuring he competed at the highest level in all the other sports he played. He started his baseball career at North Ryde RSL Rams where he stayed until being transferred by Ryde Hornsby Baseball League to Canterbury Bankstown at 15 years of age. Selected to pitch for NSW U16s and U18s, he then represented Australia in the National U19 Team that attended Major League Baseball Spring Training in Florida in 2016 and the Australian Schoolboys Team that toured the US West Coast later that year. Josh received a Pierre de Coubertin Award from the NSW Olympic Committee in 2016 and earlier this year, the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) awarded him the prestigious CIS Blue with bar and Honours for his performance in Schoolboys’ Baseball.

“It was my dream to be selected by a top Division 1 University and the Scholarship was a definite bonus. With a lot of hard work and some good exposure playing with the Lions, I hope to get a spot in Major League Baseball when I graduate.” said Josh.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Spotted in January this year while training in California, the Loyola Marymount University (LMU) Coach offered him the scholarship to come and pitch for his team the Loyola Marymount Lions.

PERSONAL NOTES

Weddings

Tom Elstermann (09) and Emily Tutt (09) were married on 17 December 2016 by Rev Ware at the Barker College Chapel. The reception followed at Jonahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant & Boutique Hotel, Whale Beach. The maid of honour was Adelle Perry (09).

Baptisms 18 March Leonidas Vittorio, son of Victoria (Chesser 03) and Pedro Dornell 30 April Max Douglas, son of Jessica (Lamrock 07) and Chris Pearce (06) 7 May Evelyn Grace, daughter of Tammy and Matthew Crane (07)

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

7 May Amelia Michelle, daughter of Naomi (Seary 00) and Nicholas Lamb

Oliver Shawyer (03) married Jamie (born in the UK) on Friday 3 March 2017 at Palm Beach, Sydney. All four groomsmen were Barker Boys. Brothers Taylor Shawyer (02), Wilson Shawyer (08) and best mates Adam Symonds (03) and Adam Webster (03). The photographer was also an ex Barker Girl - Sophie Thompson (Learmont 07).

OBITUARIES

Obituaries (Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Thomas David Aynsley (09) 1992 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017

Tom Aynsley, late of Turramurra attended Barker from 2002 to 2009. His father Michael (75) and siblings Robert (03), Christopher (05), Emma (11), and Uncle Peter (72) also attended Barker. Tom loved his time at Barker. He was involved in many sports including Football, Basketball, Tae Kwon Do and was in the Volleyball 1sts in 2009 receiving Colours. Tom was also a keen sportsman outside of Barker with a talent for tennis and skiing however his greatest passion was for AFL, which began with St Ives Football Club (winning premierships in 2002, 2003 and 2007) and continued with North Shore Football Club (2009 premiership).

Tom passed away on 16 March 2017. A memorial service celebrating Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life was held in the Barker College Chapel on 26 March attended by over 400 of his family and friends. Reverend Ware, who had also christened Tom in the school chapel in 1993, led the service. Tom is survived by his partner Lizzie, parents Mike and Belinda, siblings Rob, Chris and Emma; sistersin-law Danielle and Kirrily; niece Clover and nephew Toby. Robb Shiel Fotheringham (40) 1923 - 2016

Robb Fotheringham, late of North Turramurra, attended Barker from 1937 to 1940. Whilst at Barker, Robb was a keen sportsman enjoying Athletics and was a member of the 3rd XI Cricket and Vice-Captain of the 2nd XV Rugby (who were undefeated Premiers) in his final year. Robb also enjoyed cadets and was promoted to Cadet Lieutenant. Robb passed away on 27 September 2016 and is survived by his son Rowan who also attended Barker (69), his daughter Jane and his granddaughters Eloise and Kate and his grandsons James, Nicholas and Thomas. Some thoughts and recollections from Rowan... My father Robb led a full and rewarding life from challenging beginnings. Born in Cranford, New Jersey, USA the youngest of three children he came to Australia at two years of age. He had an adventurous childhood living at Gordon and ranging around the North Shore with his elder brother on their bicycles. He became a boarder at Barker after the death of both his parents by the time he was 14 years old. His time at the School made a positive and deep impression on him, which he spoke of often...particularly his recollections of his headmaster William Leslie, whom he greatly admired. As was the case for most of his generation, Robb went straight from school to war. Enrolling at the Royal Military College Duntroon and graduating as an officer in 1943, he saw active service in Borneo as a tank commander with the 9th Armoured Regiment.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Following Barker, Tom studied a Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts, majoring in International Business at Macquarie University. During this time, he worked at Boost Juice where he met his partner Lizzie. In 2014, Tom and Lizzie travelled to London and lived there for two years, enjoying sightseeing around Europe. Tom initially found work in a bar in London before working as a business

analyst in his father's consulting company, Prospera. Upon returning to Australia in December 2016, Tom pursued a career following his passion for coffee with plans to explore not only the retail aspects of the industry but to also focus on the sourcing, roasting and distribution of sustainable coffee. A memorial fund has been established in remembrance of Tom, with funds raised supporting sustainable and ethical coffee producing communities around the world. https://chuffed.org/ project/thomas-d-aynsley-memorialfundraiser-in-lieu-of-flowers

OBITUARIES

Returning to Australia after the war he enrolled in Architecture at Sydney University in 1947 and went on to become a partner in the firm Lipson, Kaad and Fotheringham, designing for private, commercial and government clients throughout a long and successful career.

Philip John Learoyd (75) 1957 – 2016

He also generously applied his skills in a voluntary capacity to the design of a new St Peters Church in East Lindfield and to an extension of the First Lindfield Scout Hall. Home alteration plans for family and friends were also freely drawn up. It was the design of a modest beach house located at Avalon and based on the concept of the Japanese Tea House that provided us as a family with a unique experience and lasting memories. In his spare time he was a passionate gardener, keen golfer and occasional fly-fisherman. His Christian faith was matched by a love of nature, especially birds and an appreciation of music. Throughout their married lives Robb was a devoted and caring partner to our mother Helen. They retired to the Northern Beaches where they enjoyed time as grandparents. He pursued his passion for painting, particularly watercolours and took up sailing which he enjoyed on Pittwater and Broken Bay.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

A modest and kind man his approach to life was reflected in the school motto "Honor Non Honores" or let merit be its own reward...he led by example and his inspiration and spirit lives on with us, his family.

Philip Learoyd attended Barker from 1968 -1975. This was the era of rock music, long hair and defying authority, and Phil engaged in all of these with alacrity. He was an enthusiastic debater and great thinker, challenging the status quo and speaking up for the underdog. He was a keen cricketer and footballer, playing for the Second XI and Second XV. He was also an Elephant in Noye’s Fludde! Phil was a Rock Music enthusiast, infusing and enthusing the family home with Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Santana and other rock icons of the 70s. He formed a classic garage band, Stumbling Dog with Barker mates (John Olsen, John Edwards, Geoff Mountfort and John Casimir, all 1975 alumni) though history does not record whether they ever did a gig! After leaving school, Phil started studying Medicine, intending to follow in his father Harry’s (44) footsteps. Ever the one for an alternative pathway, he convinced the University Dons to allow him to do a combined Medicine/Arts degree. In the long run, however, he found his calling outside of medicine, completing a Communications Degree in Media at UTS, back in the days when this was in its infancy. Phil was a passionate surfer and spent many a long summer catching the waves and the rays with Captain Goodvibes along the NSW North Coast with fellow students from the Medical Faculty and other firm friends including Jonno Loveday (75).

Work life was with various audiovisual and television production companies, notably EFEX and later Zealot, where his technical and creative skills shone, and dedication and commitment to the team were highly valued. It was during this time that he met his soulmate, Helen, and they spent the next 23 joyful years together, having two gorgeous children in Ruby and Ed. When Phil was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2014, they decided to make the relationship official. Their marriage, in the midst of his terminal illness, was a celebration of the life they had led, and a commitment to the difficult days that lay ahead. He was a dedicated family man, and was the driving force behind regular family get-togethers. He was son to Janet and Harry (44), and brother to David (77), Richard (79) and Sue, and “favourite uncle” to their children. Phil’s great gifts were in his thoughtfulness for people, his ability to see the other person’s point of view, his stand for the underdog, and above all his humour and humanity in every situation. At his memorial service overlooking the surf at Maroubra, several hundred people from all stages of Phil’s life, including those he and Helen had simply met walking the dog, gathered. They were there to give thanks for the life of a man they had all known and loved, as husband, dad, son, brother, friend, soccer coach, President of P&C, and so much more. Farewell dear brother. You are deeply missed by us all. David Learoyd

OBITUARIES

Mark Andrew Nixon (86) 1969 - 2017

Peter Wilson (47) 1930 - 2017

Mark Nixon, late of Riverview, attended Barker from 1978 to 1986. He was a keen sportsman enjoying Athletics, Rugby, Cricket and Basketball. Mark was a Company Commander in the Cadet Unit and a leading member of the Adventure Country Expedition Club.

Peter Wilson, late of Chester Hill, attended Barker from 1942 to 1945. Whilst at Barker, Peter enjoyed sporting pursuits, placing 1st in the Under 14 handicap 200 yards in 1943 and was a member of the Under 14A XV Rugby team in 1944, 15As Cricket and 15Bs Rugby.

Following Barker, Mark worked for a number of software companies, whilst gaining degrees in computing and business administration from Macquarie University, as well as becoming a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. He commenced working for the University in its Student Administration Services in 2004. Diagnosed with motor neurone disease in October 2011, he struggled valiantly against its ravages, and continued working right up to his death on 2 March 2017. Macquarie University provided magnificent support to him as he lost movement in his body. He is survived by his wife Gail, son Aidin, parents John and Barbara, and siblings Stephen (92), Naomi and Matthew (95).

Help me lose myself in you Help me shelter in your love Father help me see your magnificent glory

Peter passed away on 25 March 2017 and is survived by his wife Edna, children Graham, Stuart and Jennifer; seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Mark was helped in his fight by a strong Christian faith and trust in the certainty of God’s promises. At his Thanksgiving Service on 13 March a song, written by Mark was played (“Help me Lose Myself in You”). It concluded with –

Following Barker, Peter worked a number of jobs before enlisting in the Army where he served in Korea and Vietnam. Following discharge after 18 years of military service, Peter found employment as a sales representative before retiring in 1983. His passions for sport continued beyond Barker College with Peter involved in Rugby and Athletics as an active sportsperson and later as a coach. In retirement, he was involved in the RSL and Masonic Lodge and was a sought after speaker in commemoration of ANZAC day and Remembrance Day services. He developed a particular passion for educating youth on the sacrifices made by all service people during military conflict and annually received many invitations to schools and was a regular volunteer at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway.

OBA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

OBA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the 109th Annual General Meeting of the Old Barker Association Inc. will be held in the Marks Pavilion, Barker College, Hornsby on Tuesday 25 July 2017 at 6:30pm. 1. Apologies. 2. Confirmation of Minutes of the 108th Annual General Meeting of the Old Barker Association Inc. held on 19 July 2016 3. President’s Report. 4. Honorary Treasurer’s Report. 5. Report by the Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath. 6. To receive and consider the Income and Expenditure Report for the financial year 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017, together with the Balance Sheet at 30 June 2017. 7. To receive and consider the Annual Statement to be lodged with the Department of Fair Trading for the year to 30 June 2017. 8. Appointment of Patron(s), and election of Office Bearers and Committee Members comprising: President, Vice President/s, Honorary Treasurer, Honorary Secretary/Public Officer, Assistant Honorary Secretary, eight (8) ordinary members. Refer note below. 9. Appointment of Representative to the School Council –Ms Pennie Cruickshank has been nominated for another three (3) year term. Refer note below. 10. Appointment of Honorary Auditor. 11. Other Business permitted to be raised pursuant to clause 31(2) of the Constitution. By Order of the Committee, Matthew Ross-Smith, Honorary Secretary

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2017

Note: In accordance with the requirement of Clause 29(2) of the Constitution any further nominations are hereby called and shall be in writing, signed by a Member of the Association, endorsed by the candidate and lodged with the Honorary Secretary at least twenty-one (21) days prior to the meeting in compliance with Clause 29(3). Any nominee must be a financial member of the OBA.

OBA ANNUAL All Welcome

Friends | Colleagues | Clients Tuesday 29 August 11.00 am Pennant Hills Golf Club Green Fees: $75.00 per person Dinner: $45.00 per person Cart Hire: $35.00 limited availability RSVP: Friday 18 August To book, visit www.barker.nsw.edu.au and click on the Payment option to book this OBA event. Queries: Mandy Loomes 9847 8229 or mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

OBA ANNUAL Guest speaker: Lauren Hannaford (03)

Lauren is a former dancer for The Wiggles, a fashion model, actress and fitness guru. Join us to hear some of her amazing adventures.

Friday 3 November 2017 Junior School Multi Purpose Hall RSVP: Monday 23 October 2017 To book, visit www.barker.nsw.edu.au and click on the Payment option to book. Queries: Mandy Loomes 9847 8229 or mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Class Reunions

Over 70s Events

Regional Events

1962 – 55 Year Reunion Fri 18 Aug Bruce Chanter 0406 737 223 chanterb@internode.on.net

Over 70s/Leslie’s Men Lunch Rugby and AGM Sat 5 Aug Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Melbourne Sat 14 July Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407

1977 – 40 Year Reunion Sat 9 Sept Don Gilchrist (02) 6550 7614 1967 – 50 Year Reunion Sat 16 Sept Peter McIntyre 0418 972 040 peter@mcin.com.au

OBA Events OBA Committee Meeting & AGM Tues 25 July 6.30pm Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Sunshine Coast Sun 22 Oct Peter Maidens (54) (07) 5478 6206 themaidens@ozemail.com.au Brian Allen (53) (07) 5499 9985 bballen314@gmail.com

Ralf Rendall 0411 670 294 amalpropval@bigpond.com

OBA Golf Day Tues 29 Aug Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Canberra Fri 10 Nov Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281 mccoll@grapevine.net.au

1997 – 20 Year Reunion Sat 7 Oct John van Rooyen 0407 686 331 jv_r@hotmail.com

OBA Committee Meeting Tues 24 Oct Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

London Fri 15 Dec Annette French (Slattery 88) (44) 1732 382 281 (h) annette.e.french@sky.com

1982 – 35 Year Reunion Sat 14 Oct Meg Brodie (Timmins) 0409 980 300 brodie.megan@gmail.com

OBA Annual Dinner Fri 3 Nov Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

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

1987 – 30 Year Reunion Sat 21 Oct Genevieve Bayliss-Smith Nicki Green (Calford) Micky Mylne (Barnsdall) reunion@barker87.com.au 1957 – 60 Year Reunion Fri 27 Oct John Donovan 02 6288 7403 johndonovan@ozemail.com.au

Please send your contact details to mloomes@barker.nsw.edu.au if you are living in a different location to your Barker mailing address, so we can invite you too!