THE THISTLE KNOX GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINEJUNE 2015

Knox Grammar School is a leading Australian day and boarding school for boys. Knox, a Uniting Church school from Years K-12, aims to develop, within a caring environment, young men of faith, wisdom, integrity and compassion. Knox opened in 1924 and today offers an outstanding range of educational and development opportunities.

ON thE frONt cOvEr Looking through the Catafalque Party at the Anzac Memorial Service for Old Knox Grammarians during the One Minute’s Silence.

KNOx facEbOOK aNd twittEr Stay in touch with the latest from Knox via social media. Like us at www.facebook.com/knoxgrammar and follow us at www.twitter.com/knoxgrammar.

acKNOwlEdgEmENts This edition of The Thistle was prepared by Janet Naylon, Publications Manager, Knox Grammar School.

Proofreading by David Hayes, photography by Paul Wright, Scott Cameron, Andrew Atkinson-Howatt, Harley Rossetto, Knox staff, students and parents.

cONtribUtiONs Deadline for the December 2015 edition of The Thistle is 18 September 2015. OKGA contributions to okga@knox.nsw.edu.au. General contributions to publications@knox.nsw.edu.au.

dEsigN ARTSPEC / Brand Engagement www.artspec.com.au

PriNt The Thistle is printed by an ISO accredited printer on Magno Silk. Magno Silk is FSC Certified and made from elemental chlorine free bleached pulp.

THIS ISSUE

CONTENTS// JUNE 2015

THE THISTLEKNOX GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINE

03 From the Headmaster One of the key elements of Positive Psychology is that we should identify our own ‘signature strengths’ and then ensure we do ‘strengths based activities’ every day.

05 From the Chairman of School Council Out of all the factors that determine a student’s

academic success, it is the person at the front of the class – the teacher – which has the biggest impact.

08 Feature Story 100 years on from the landings in Gallipoli

the Knox community paused to reflect and remember those Australians who gave the ultimate sacrifice, not only in World War I but also in subsequent conflicts.

12 Preparatory School See examples of the new syllabus in action and

student works from Doing da Vinci.

16 Senior School From Literacy in Focus to a Grand Tour and Survival of the Fitness; there is something for everyone at the Senior School campus.

24 Knox Academy of Performing Arts Take a look behind the scenes of Crazy for

You, the making of Lanterns and SWE’s most recent music choice (image Slap That Bass - Moose (Alex Voinovich).

28 Knox Sports Academy Fitness for Life starts with a number of

programs in the Preparatory School which see boys developing their skills and achieving their goals.

30 A Home at School The Boys to Men camps provide a great

opportunity for students to hone their leadership skills and develop friendships.

32 Knox Community Year group morning teas and community

events such as Gala Day are a wonderful way for families to develop friendships which often last a lifetime.

34 Old Knox Grammarians Events, Reunions and News from Old Boys.

THE THISTLE

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03JUNE 2015

If we as a nation are to combat youth depression and bring up thriving, robust young people, we must take a proactive approach and integrate mental health programs in all aspects of school life.

Positive Psychology (in a school environment known as ‘Positive Education’) has been a key focus at Knox Grammar over the past six years.

While mainstream psychology often focuses on people who already suffer from mental health issues, Positive Psychology aims to proactively increase mental resilience. It can play a crucial preventive role in reducing depression, anxiety and stress within the school environment.

Between 2011 and 2013, researchers from the University of Wollongong independently analysed and evaluated our Positive Education program to identify its effectiveness. This included surveys with students and staff. Overall, the researchers found that our students experienced an increased level of wellbeing as a result of Positive Education at Knox, particularly senior students.

Building on the success of our ‘Positive Education’ program, earlier this year we commenced the next step in our pastoral care journey with a program called ‘Knox Total Fitness’.

This program aims to equip students with ‘total fitness’ (so they are academically, socially, physically and spiritually ‘fit’). This ensures that they perform at their very best and are more resilient to the stresses they may encounter as teenagers and young adults, such as relationship challenges and academic pressures.

So how does this work on the ground?

In the Prep School, Knox Total Fitness is delivered by our Chaplain through the ‘You Can Do It’ program. Here, the boys learn skills such as getting along, organisation, persistence, confidence and resilience.

In the Senior School, each boy has a ‘Pastoral Mentor’ who has received training in Positive Psychology. The Senior School mentor program utilises ‘You Can Do It’ as its backbone.

Mentors work with each boy in their mentor group to identify strengths. One of the key elements of Positive Psychology is that we should identify our own ‘signature strengths’ and then ensure we do ‘strengths based activities’ every day. For example, if a boy has a signature strength of ‘Teamwork’, he should engage in team based activities wherever possible. By doing this he will be gratified and happy.

Having established their signature strengths, each boy then works with his mentor to establish academic and personal goals to work towards.

Across Kindergarten to Year 12, boys are taught a wide range of values and skills, such as compassion, tolerance, honesty, responsibility and leadership.

In addition to their ‘Pastoral Mentor’, boys in Year 11 and 12 also have a separate ‘Academic Mentor’ who plays the role of ‘coach’. Boys in Year 11 and

KNOx TOTaL FITNESSFROM THE HEADMASTER

WORDS BYMr John Weeks, Headmaster

“One of the key elements of Positive Psychology is that we should identify our own ‘signature strengths’ and then ensure we do ‘strengths based activities’ every day”

Continued next page

The four pillars of Knox Total Fitnesssocial fitness: Nurturing each student’s ability to develop strong relationships and develop attitudes to enhance their emotional wellbeing.

academic fitness: Supporting each student’s readiness and preparedness to be a passionate and effective learner.

spiritual fitness: Providing each boy with opportunities to have a meaning and purpose in life, and an internal value system that informs how he lives and the decisions that he makes.

Physical fitness: Enabling each boy to perform to his potential, allowing him to look, feel and do his best.

04 THE THISTLE

12 also learn special skills that will be vital in their final studies, such as time management, how to prioritise, perseverance, motivational strategies, and how to manage exam anxiety.

Of course, parents have a vital role in the wellbeing of their son, so earlier this year we launched a ‘Positive Parenting’ program. The aim of this initiative is for parents to be equipped with the language and tools to support their son’s success and engagement with ‘Knox Total Fitness’. The program has included a seminar for parents with

Professor Michael Bernard, founder of the ‘You Can Do It’ program, and a series of regular columns in The Knoxonian to provide parents with Positive Psychology tips. Parents also have access to the ‘You Can Do It Parents’ program website.

When each boy leaves Knox, we want to him to be a resilient young man, confident in himself and his abilities, equipped with the skills to thrive as an individual.

FROM THE HEADMASTER

PractisiNg POsitivE EdUcatiON cONfErENcE

On 28 and 29 August 2015, Knox will hold a Positive Education conference which is expected to draw principals, teachers, educators, youth workers and psychologists from across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Parents are also invited to attend, with a special parent stream on offer on Saturday 29 August. For more information about the conference, please visit www.knoxtotalfitness.com

05JUNE 2015

Families come to Knox Grammar for a wide range of reasons: community, facilities, the programs on offer and our academic programs (to name a few).

At the start of this year we conducted a survey of our parents who are new to our School to find out some of the reasons why they chose Knox. In total, about 240 new parents completed the survey.

In this article, I’d like to reflect on a few of the findings and how the school is supporting these areas of need for parents.

In the survey the parents were asked to rate a range of factors from one to five for sending their boy to Knox, with ‘one’ being less important factors and ‘five’ more important factors.

The key finding of the survey was that ‘Teacher Quality’ was the number one factor for parents choosing Knox; 88.3% of parents rated ‘Teacher Quality’ 5 out of 5, and 99.6% rated it 4 or 5.

Over the last few years the School has implemented a comprehensive professional development program to help our teachers to enhance and improve their teaching practice.

As you may have read in the media, the quality of classroom teachers and the support provided

to them is a ‘hot topic’ in Education, particularly in light of the recent release of the Federal Government’s ‘Action Now: Classroom Ready Teachers’ Report.

Out of all the factors that determine a student’s academic success, it is the person at the front of the class – the teacher – which has the biggest impact. So it’s essential that teachers are provided with opportunities to receive professional development and refine and improve their teaching practice.

At Knox, Professional Learning program for Prep and Senior School teachers includes ‘Instructional Rounds’, an innovative classroom-oriented approach where teachers observe, analyse and improve teaching and learning. This model is based on the Harvard ‘Instructional Rounds’ approach. Teachers collaborate during ‘Rounds’ to enhance their practice, share ideas and support high quality teaching and learning for all students.

Teachers at Knox also have an Instructional Coach with whom they work on a one-to-one basis to set goals and review practice based on lesson observations.

Knox teachers attend professional development workshops once a fortnight (called ‘Our Time to Learn’), where they collaborate with other teachers, undertake online learning, share ideas and explore the latest research into pedagogy and teaching and learning.

The goal of these ‘Quality Teaching’ programs is to ensure that every boy has the best quality teachers, to help and guide him to thrive academically and reach his full potential.

In our parent survey, one of the other top reasons for choosing Knox is for their boy to receive a ‘Well Rounded Education’ (97.9% rated this 4 or 5).

Each boy at Knox has access to an extraordinary range of activities and co-curricular opportunities which gives him the chance to grow and develop as a person.

For example, boys in the Prep have the choice of around 20 clubs including Robotics, Gardening, Dance, Latin and Movie Making. The Senior School students can pick from more than 25 sports and participate in a huge range of afterschool activities and clubs, including Computer Club, Titration, Public Speaking, Tech Crew, Future Problem Solvers and Drama Club. As the School has grown, we have been able to broaden the range of sports and activities on offer.

The School values, culture and pastoral care programs were also rated as important reasons for choosing Knox by parents.

As the Headmaster as explored in his column in this edition of The Thistle, over recent years the school has embarked on a Positive Psychology ‘journey’ to transform our school culture and provide ‘total fitness’ for every boy. Our ‘Knox Total Fitness’ program supports all boys from Kindergarten to Year 12 and aims to ensure each boy is socially, academically, physically and spiritually ‘fit’.

For the School Council, the survey of new parents was enlightening but also reassuring. It is pleasing to know that all of us - parents, staff and the members of School Council – are all working towards the same goals. That is, to make Knox Grammar an innovative and progressive school which supports success in the classroom while also shaping boys into resilient, well-rounded young men.

FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF SCHOOL COUNCIL

wHy KNOx?WORDS BYMr Peter Roach, Chairman of School Council

06 THE THISTLE

SENIOR ACADEMY

KNOx SENIOr STudENTS aCadEMy HONOur waLLThank you to all our donors

GOLD CORPORATE PARTNERSADCO

Burns and Burns Real Estate

EPM Projects

Ricoh

SKG Cleaning

Sodexo

Wahroonga Travel a member of helloworld

SILVER CORPORATE PARTNERSJones Sonter Architects

helloworld Thirroul

Woods Furniture

dONOr rEcOgNitiONTom Antognelli OKG16, Uncle, Bruce Roxburgh OKG72Mr and Mrs G J ArmstrongJames AstridgeNick AstridgeAiden AtkinsonMark Avery OKG83Jerson BalatonThe Balfour FamilyJ G Barclay OKG14N G Barclay OKG17Hugh BorkmanElliot L Bowen OKG21Nelson C Bowen OKG17Spencer G Bowen OKG11The Bowers FamilyChris BrackenrigNathan BrackenrigBen BradshawJonathan R Brennan OKG10Matthew Brooke OKG22Calvin CaiToby ChantharasyAaron Yonglong Chen OKG23

Vincent Libo ChenKevin Chou OKG14William Chung OKG20John F ChurchThe Claridge FamilySusan Conde AMReece Charles Kinsela Condrick OKG16 In Honour of his Father Charles Rodney Russell Kinsela OKG58James Constable OKG20John Constable OKG77Peter Constable OKG88Robert Constable OKG54Thomas Constable OKG19William Constable OKG22Harry CouvretByron and Annie CullenThe Cutrone FamilyThe Darnell FamilyAlan Dear OAM OKG58Christopher Dear OKG61Ian Dear OKG67Alex DenningHamish DenningLiam DenningChristian Baillie Dennis OKG19John and Stella DennisNicholas James Dennis OKG08The Dickson FamilyRoss James Barton Dinnell OKG59Martin D’NettoOscar John Dobson OKG17The Druce FamilyJames Harrison DwyerThe Edie FamilyAaron Erdstein OKG21Frazier A EvansJake K E EvansMax Evans OKG20The Fisher FamilyJames Fisher OKG20 and Matthew Fisher OKG23 In Honour of David Fisher OKG91Paul FreameNicholas FrostBrian Fong OKG14Will Gaupset OKG16 In Honour of Greg Gaupset OKG85Lachlan GeeSam Gibbs OKG16Dean Gongolidis OKG19Dimitrios and Tina GongolidisNicholas Gongolidis OKG16Maximus Gribble OKG20Daniel K Groves OKG22The Gummerson FamilyThe Haggerty FamilyJulian Hannan OKG14Lindsay and Ju Hannan

Shaun Hannan OKG11Benjamin Hansen OKG17Ethan Hansen OKG20Curtis Harbers OKG13Karl Harbers OKG15Bevan John Keith HarrisDavid J HarvisonJonah W HarvisonOliver J HarvisonJon HeddouAlexander HeintzeLuke Henning-SmithWebster Wai-Kin HoWilkins Wai-Tak HoAngus Hordern OKG80Jack HoyleJeremy Huang OKG21Jesse HughesThe Humphrey FamilyGeoffrey HungIan JackmanSteven Jarvis OKG17TJ JohnstonHarrison Jones OKG08 and Finn Douglas OKG18Aaron Wright Jubb OKG22Max Illing-KellyHarrison Kemp OKG16 and Timothy Kemp OKG83 In Honour of Philip Kemp OKG46Lachlan Kemp OKG15 In Honour of Christopher Kemp OKG82 and Philip Kemp OKG46Kieran KennedyXavier KinchingtonBrandon Charles Kreymborg OKG16Knox Parents’ AssociationMr and Mrs KoEugene Y C Kwan OKG90Nicholas Lake OKG20Joshua LamAlexander Landsberry OKG15 In Honour of John Deans, Grandfather OKG46Michael Landsberry OKG01 In Honour of John Deans, Grandfather OKG46Gavin Lee OKG21 In Honour of Wei Li and Wendy MaoMarcus LeeRobert J Lewis OKG47The Zhu and Li FamilyFei Luo and Dan LiAndrew LinWilliam LiuJames Llewellyn LloydFlynn F MacGregorOliver W MacGregorThe MacLean FamilyThe Malnic Boys

Garth and Margaret Mansfield In Memory of Hamish Martyr from The Class of 2014Nathanial Keith James MartinDavid Matthews In Loving Memory of His Father Boyd MatthewsJim Mein AM OKG60Richard Miles OAM OKG39Jordan P MosesThomas W Moss OKG14Bridin MurnionJoshua Mark Nairn OKG16Roger NasserThe Nethercott FamilyOliver John Nicholas OKG12Alastair Nicholls OKG18Cain Nolan OKG18Kevin Nolan OKG14Jason Yurim Oh OKG16Gregory OnikulA H Osman OKG57Pedro J Papangelis OKG19William PapantoniouArthur PardeyIan PardeyMitchell PardeyThe Parsonage FamilyNicholas Pearson OKG16Max Zhi PeiHenri Perl OKG15The Pincott BoysMichael PinnThe Plenge BoysKen Powell OKG61Forbes William PrattThe Rahme BoysKenneth R Reed AMJames ReidAlexander James Roach OKG11Lachlan Peter Roach OKG07Peter and Robyn RoachWilliam David Roach OKG09Sydney RobertsonBlake Roder OKG23Rodriguez RussellThe Ruthven FamilyThe Salucci FamilyAnthony SaraJackson SaultLachlan Seeto OKG18 In Honour of Geoffrey Seeto OKG86 and Mathew Seeto OKG58Christian SekuloskiWonhyung SeoDaniel Seto OKG15 In Honour of Barry Seto OKG82 and Michael Seto OKG56The Sharp BoysEdwin YuYuan Shen

Alexander Nicholas Sky OKG22Lachlan Paul Sky OKG19Nicholas Paul Sky OKG94Normand Morse Sky OKG28Paul Manning Sky OKG65Max James Cameron Small OKG2025William Oscar Cameron Small OKG23Stuart SneydDavid SomervailleJames StarkSamuel Stirling OKG18 In Honour of Guy Stirling OKG83 and Arthur Stirling OKG49The Suleyman BoysLeung Vincent King Sun OKG83Yu Sun OKG19Joshua SungKarthik W Surendra OKG19J TanEdward C Tanzil OKG01The Thatcher FamilyJack TomlinsonThe Uen FamilyAlexander van Veen OKG15Nicholas van Veen OKG19Kent and Desley WalkerLachlan Walker OKG18Matthew Wedlock OKG17 In Honour of Timothy Wedlock OKG85John and Denise WeeksMitchell Westhuizen OKG20Daniel G White OKG17Harry H White OKG16Jarleth W White OKG15Lachie L White OKG21Max M White OKG18Rory G White OKG12Warwick G White OKG78Milton Jack WhitmontBrooks C Wilson OKG49Fraser Wilson OKG17 and Campbell Wilson OKG21, In Honour of Grandfather, David Patten Wilson OKG45Henry Wines OKG19Alexander WuEthan YanJustin YanBrian Po-Hsien YangIvan Chun-Hsien YangKevin Chi-Hsien YangNathan Yushen Yang OKG22Richard York OKG88Max Zagorski OKG18

Many anonymous donations have also been made to the campaign.

07JUNE 2015

EMPOWERING WOMEN PRESENTATIONS At Knox we understand the amount of time and commitment mothers put into their boys’ education and co-curricular activities. The Empowering Women Presentations were developed to give back to our amazing Knox mothers, with topics including:

•“Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary” thanks to Kim Pearce, Co-founder of The Possibility Project

•“The Journey of Emotional Freedom” thanks to Angela Raspass, Director of The Business Success Mentor

•“Being the CFO of Your Life” thanks to Knox mum Amanda MacLean, Partner, Equitas Partners

• “Empowering Women in your local community” thanks to Annabelle Daniel, CEO, Women’s Community Shelters

•“Women Empowering Refugee Women” thanks to Knox mum Kiki Paul and Settlement Services International presenters Keren David and Melita Milovic

Also thanks to Fiona van Horen and Vanessa Smithyman who raised $60,000 through coordinating the Hornsby and Kuringgai Women’s Shelter Ball. Thank you to Knox mum Sarah Hornery who developed the “Just 1” drive concept which secured an amazing amount of consumable donations through Knox and the wider community for the Hornsby and Kuringgai Women’s Shelter. Our Knox community is strong, filled with compassion and generosity that we all should be proud of.

KNOX CITY2SURF TEAM Our community is proud to run or walk year on year and bring advocacy to organisations who help people locally and internationally. This year’s chosen charity is R U OK? which is a not-for-profit suicide prevention organisation, which we would all agree has an important place due to youth suicide in the community. We are fortunate to have Knox student Sam Clarke (Y12) as a Youth Ambassador for R U OK? and who will again be raising awareness and funds at Knox on R U OK? Day held annually in September.

A big thank you and congratulations to the 16 piece Knox Pep Band which will once again entertain and ‘pep up’ approximately 80,000 people on race day.

Thank you also to Ricoh who are sponsoring the Knox City2Surf Team.

KNOX BUSINESS DIRECTORY AND YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR SCHOLARSHIP The Knox Business Directory is a new initiative that came about from parents wanting to directly do business with the Knox community. This great initiative will help strengthen awareness within the Knox business community. The directory is placed on the Knox Grammar School website under the Community section and can be accessed via Parent Lounge. All funds received from business listings will fund the new Knox Young Entrepreneur Scholarship.

The Directory is also a vehicle to recognise our sponsors of various groups within the School. Their support is what makes a difference to what we can achieve at Knox for the boys. Special thanks to McCarrolls which over many years has sponsored Knox Rugby, Soccer, Basketball, Swimming and now the Young Entrepreneur Scholarship.

KNOX CHARITY PARTNERSOver the years Knox has made strong relationships with many charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Every year we look to grow our relationships further through advocacy, awareness and financial assistance through various individuals and groups within Knox. We all feel a sense of pride when working with these organisations knowing we all

have the ability to make a positive difference in this world.

Thank you to all our boys, parents and staff for bringing awareness, their time and fundraising to:

•Amnesty International •Australian Diabetes Council •Bear Cottage •beyondblue •Cancer Council •CanTeen •Hornsby and Kuringgai Women’s Shelter•KYDS (Ku-ring-gai Youth Development Service) •Legacy •Lifeline •MOvember •North Shore Special Olympics - Kuringgai Chase

Fun Run•R U OK? •Salvation Army •Settlement Services International •Sony Foundation •St Edmund’s School•STARRTS (NSW Service for the Treatment and

Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors) •Uniting Justice •Uniting World •Variety – the Children’s Charity •Wesley Mission •White Ribbon

GIVING AT KNOX

WORDS BYMs Athena Rogers, Director of Development

gIvINg aT KNOx

01 Stage 6 boys crossing the finish line with a special athlete at the Kuringgai Chase Fun Run

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08 THE THISTLE

FEATURE STORY

Anzac Day has always been an important part of the School’s heritage.

Knox was not established until six years after the end of the Great War but its effects left their mark on the new school. On 25 April 1924, the original 28 students caught the train to Milsons Point and marched to St Stephen’s Church in Phillip Street. Here they attended an Anzac Day Service with other Presbyterian schools. The founding Headmaster, Mr Neil MacNeil delivered the reading. It was the School’s first public outing.

In 1931, Anzac Day fell on a Saturday and the School held a service of its own in rooms 25 and 26 of the Main School Building; the first assembly hall. The boys were addressed by Rev James of St John’s, Wahroonga, and afterwards marched in their new blue cadet uniforms, past the flag on the drive, thus beginning the tradition of the Knox Anzac Day Parade.

By Anzac Day 1940, the venue had changed to the gymnasium (now the Drama Centre) and the service had gained special significance for the School. Here the first news of WWII casualties began to be announced to the School. By this time Peter Hordern (OKG34) had been killed while on active service with the RAF in England and John Rutledge (OKG34) had died as the result of injuries he sustained in an accident during his military training. The first real parade was held on Anzac Day 1944; the following year saw the introduction of a colour party and drummers.

The 1946 Old Boys’ Memorial Service and Ceremonial Parade was the first official occasion on which parents of fallen Old Boys were guests of the School Council. They were entertained in the gardens of the Headmaster’s quarters, then located on the site of the Knox Senior Students Academy, which is now taking shape on the southern end of Knox 1 Oval. Pipers and Drummers first appeared in the Ceremonial Parade in 1948. In 1954, the service

moved to the newly completed John Williams Memorial Hall.

In 1955, then Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Robert Menzies CH, QC, MP opened the Old Boys’

aNzaC MEMOrIaL SErvICEWORDS BYMs Jo Tait, Knox Archivist

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Memorial on Anzac Day. Antony Hill (OKG65) commenced the service by reading the Prologue followed by a Prayer from James Laurie (OKG56) and the Reading “Let us now praise famous Men” by Reg Livermore (OKG55). The Roll of Honour was read by School Captain Robert Whatmore (OKG55). The Ceremonial Parade of the Cadet Unit marched down MacNeil Drive and onto Knox 1 Oval; Commanding Officer AW Briggs and his cadets received high praise from the Prime Minster. This pattern has been followed now for 60 years. The Old Boys’ Memorial was refurbished in 2008 with the assistance of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, ‘Saluting their Service’ grants program.

By the 1960s and 70s the formal proceedings of the outdoor Old Boys’ Memorial Service and the Ceremonial Cadet Parade had become a feature of the local community calendar, regularly attracting large crowds. Today, the Knox Grammar School Cadets and Pipes and Drums not only play a role in commemorative services at School, but across Sydney, in the City March and also from time to time at national commemorative services in Canberra.

In 2015, the Anzac Memorial Service for the Old Knox Grammarians’ Association was held in the Knox Great Hall for the first time. This was followed by the Ceremonial Parade of the Knox Grammar Cadet Unit on Knox 1.

01 The Reviewing Officer, Mr Paul Fletcher MP, inspects the Parade

02 Wreaths laid at the Roll of Honour of Old Knox Grammarians who have died in war

03 Lysle Roberts (OKG41) and Charles Wannan (OKG38) laying wreaths during the Service. They are assisted by Maj (ACC) David McKeith (OKG74), CO of the Cadet Unit.

04 HQ and Support Company start their march-on to the Parade

05 The Senior CUO, Rob Truskett, presents arms during the march-on of the ANF and Unit Flag

06 D Company in position on Parade

07 The Official Party enters the Great Hall for the Service

08 The Catafalque Party rested-on-arms during the Service

09 A Company staff and cadets before the Parade

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SOUND LINK

www.knox.nsw.edu.au/menzies

Listen to the Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Robert Menzies CH, QC, MP at the unveiling of the Old Boys’ War Memorial on Anzac Day, 1955

10 THE THISTLE

World War II is one of history’s greatest, bloodiest and costliest conflicts. Over 60 million people perished. Of that number, just under 40,000 Australian soldiers gave their lives in defence of their country. They fought for our freedom, our safety and for what was right. Not all of these men were soldiers seasoned in combat. They were young; many fresh out of school. Some were even still at school.

Think of today’s Year 12 students – 17 and 18 year old boys with their whole lives ahead of them – putting down their school books and marching to such a violent, relentless war. It’s a confronting image; too hard to digest.

Knox Grammar School was 15 years young when war broke out. These ordinary Australian boys were thrust into extraordinary events.

For School and Country is a World War II documentary produced by Knox Old Boys in association with the School and the Australian War Memorial. It focuses on 12 Knox men who served in World War II.

On 5 May 2015, the documentary miniseries For School and Country was launched at a special service held in the Great Hall with boys from Years

6 and 8 to 12 in attendance. Nine of the 12 profiled veterans attended with their families. The veterans and official party marched through the Cadet Unit’s Honour Guard to the tunes of the Pipe Band and Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

After a welcome by the Headmaster, guest speaker The Hon Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial talked extensively about the qualities and values of Australian soldiers in the two World Wars, and how these qualities are embodied in the stories of the veterans profiled in For School and Country.

A 45-minute special launch edition of the five-part miniseries was played. All in attendance gave their utmost respect to the veterans and were enraptured by the heroic, breathtaking stories.

A luncheon for the veterans and special guests was then held in the Thistle Room. Headmaster John Weeks shared some thoughts before introducing the project leaders of For School and Country, Angus Hordern (OKG80) and Alex Lloyd (OKG09). Angus talked on the origins of the project and Alex about the journey of producing For School and Country.

Rev Dr Gareth Clayton OAM said Grace and veteran Arthur Pardey (OKG41) said the Ode in tribute to their fallen brothers and classmates.

The team from Thistle Productions presented copies of the DVD to individuals and the School. Dr Nelson ended the function with some closing remarks of reflection, praising For School and Country and Knox for their remarkable commemorative efforts of Australia’s war heroes.

The Thistle Productions team, after six years of work, was thrilled with the great reception For School and Country received; it is dedicated to all Australian war veterans, including the 68 Knox boys who never came home.

FEATURE STORY

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You can find out more about the documentary at www.forschoolandcountry.com

WORDS BYAlex Lloyd (OKG09)

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FOr SCHOOL aNd COuNTry

WORDS BYAlex Lloyd (OKG09)

VIDEO LINK

www.forschoolandcountry.com

11JUNE 2015

THISTLE PRODUCTIONS

Angus Hordern (OKG80)

Alex Lloyd (OKG09)

Thomas Kaye (OKG10)

Rohan Viswalingam (OKG11)

THE VETERANS

Ted Carter (OKG38)

Barney Greatrex (OKG39)

Richard Miles (OKG39)

David Nesbitt (OKG39)

John Reid (OKG39)

Phil Stevenson (OKG39)

Don Caldwell Smith (OKG40)

John Hordern (OKG41)

Arthur Pardey (OKG41)

Eric Thew (OKG41)

Lysle Roberts (OKG42)

John Hore-Lacy (OKG43)

01 Eric Thew (OKG41) in New Guinea

02 Richard Miles (OKG39) is escorted by CUO Ed Fay (Y12) at the end of the assembly

03 The Hon Dr Brendan Nelson delivers his keynote address

04 Phil Stevenson (OKG39), Arthur Pardey (OKG41), Don Caldwell Smith (OKG40) and Eric Thew (OKG41) at the Knox Anzac Service in 2014

05 Don Caldwell Smith (OKG40)

06 Angus Hordern (OKG80), Alex Lloyd (OKG80), Headmaster John Weeks, The Hon Brendan Nelson, Thomas Kaye (OKG10), Rohan Viswalingam (OKG11)

07 Lysle Roberts (OKG42), John Reid (OKG39), Phil Stevenson (OKG39) and Barney Greatrex (OKG39) enter the Great Hall

08 The veterans of For School and Country with Charlie Wannan (OKG38), Tony Osman (OKG57) and Thistle Productions at the luncheon

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12 THE THISTLE

WORDS BYJulie Wiseman, Director of Staffing K-6/Coordinator of K-2

WORDS BYJulie Wiseman, Director of Staffing K-6/Coordinator of K-2

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

INvESTIgaTINg SCIENCE IN K-2

In 2015, Knox Grammar Preparatory School commenced teaching the new BOSTES Science Syllabus. Our aim has been to use the new syllabus to develop a program for our boys which encourages a lifelong love of science and discovery. We hope to produce amazing scientists of tomorrow.

In the K-2 Centre at Knox, teachers plan science lessons focussing on a hands-on, investigative approach to make lessons engaging and exciting. As well as explicit instruction to ensure the boys build up a scientific knowledge, emphasis is also placed on the importance of developing scientific research and inquiry skills. In class, children are given the opportunity to discover new ideas independently using an inquiry-based approach.

Kindergarten boys have been looking at how things move. They have been rolling, sliding, spinning and bouncing different objects to help build up their physics vocabulary. Our Kindergarten boys have been asking questions about how to make things move. They have made comparisons about movement by sending a variety of different shaped objects down a ramp and predicting, observing, recording and analysing the results.

In Year 1, boys are off to the zoo! They will be completing a local flora and fauna study before taking their findings and participating in a workshop called ‘Backyard Buddies’ at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. They will be making comparisons with the flora and fauna in different environments and will be guided to make conclusions about how our environment provides suitable habitats for different wildlife.

In Year 2, boys have been looking at gravity and air resistance in slowing and speeding up objects. They conducted fair tests using parachutes to investigate these concepts.

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HavINg FuN wITH THE NEw HISTOry SyLLabuS

As part of the new History syllabus Kindergarten boys have been exploring the concept of family. They looked at different family structures and discussed the differences and common features in families. The boys also looked at how we differ from our friends, family or others in the community.

A key part of studying the new History syllabus is to look at suitable historical vocabulary and the boys enjoyed learning the new words. We discussed the past, present and future and linked those terms to ourselves, photographs, objects and stories.

Year 1 boys have been studying toys and family life in the past. They visited the Old School House at Rouse Hill, dressed in olden day clothes, wrote on blackboards, danced around a maypole and played old fashioned games.

Year 2 boys visited the Knox archives, listened to guest speakers tell tales from their early school days at Knox, in particular exploring Ewan House, and learnt about famous landmarks in the Wahroonga area. The boys investigated famous identities from the area as well as places of historical significance in the local district.

13JUNE 2015

DEMENTED AND DERANGED WORDS BY Jeremy Rotenstein, Year 6 Art and Poetry, 1st Place

THE ABYSS WORDS BY Josiah May and Richard Lu, Year 5 Art and Poetry, 1st prize

dOINg da vINCI – STudENT wOrKS

01 Year 2 boys investigating air resistance

02 A kindergarten boy observing an object rolling

03 Year 2 boys at the Roll of Honour on the Senior School campus

04 The Abyss artwork

05 Demented and Deranged artwork

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DEMENTED AND DERANGEDMy brain felt as if I were in

a mysterious dream.

The surreal mountains looked hazy in my demented eyes.

The peaceful river lapped in emptiness, like it was miserable in its imprisonment.

I felt a tinge of loneliness in my hollow scorching heart.

THE ABYSS Life gurgled down the drain.

The whole world seemed to concave on my slanted figure.

The sun was growing into a dark ebony filter which poisoned the once flourishing joyful world.

The sky was enveloped in charcoal shadows.

The beautiful mountains started to stain, like coffee dripping down a white blouse.

The once snow-capped mountains were now being devoured by a ravenous shadow.

The Paris green grass was lost to the blizzard of black snowflakes.

The mountains were now a black smudge of despair.

The swaying willow trees roared as their mysterious branches were diluted.

Their beautiful, picturesque trunks were hollowed out and filled with poisonous darkness.

The once surreal fairytale like forest now consisted of torn thread.

The once masterful fleece was now a tattered torn tapestry of broken branches and distraught dreams.

Turmoil broke through the forest.

The animals sprinted hurriedly, diving swiftly over the forest’s infinite crevices.

Everything was a blur of wings and speckled legs.

Each animal’s eyes were bulging like light bulbs as they sprinted away.

The grass was eaten away; shredded into thin air.

I sat watching as the void swiftly approached the rest of the world.

Darkness melted away the world.

I was the only light left.

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14 THE THISTLE

Six out of our seven bands performed at the end of Term 1 in a spectacular ‘End of Term Band Showcase’. Over 150 boys performed in this first time concert and it was a huge success. After only seven rehearsals our Junior Band of 58 members rocked the socks off the audience, playing a medley of short pieces such as; Hot Cross Buns and Merrily We Roll Along. Considering that at the start of the year these little men could not even put their instrument together let alone play it, this shows just how far they have progressed in their first term of learning.

The Intermediate and Senior Bands also impressed the audience with their upbeat and groovy pieces and the Performance Ensemble brought the house down with their rendition of 80s Flashback and had everyone clapping along. With over 550 audience members in the Prep Auditorium, it was a squashy yet fun and energetic way to finish off the term and definitely gave our boys in the Instrumental Program something to work hard towards for the remainder of the year.

On 31 March our Prep Jazz Band was invited to perform on the Sunday Telegraph Stage at the Sydney

Royal Easter Show. The boys were very excited at the prospect of performing at the show and wowed the audience with their musical prowess and professionalism. They played a number of standard Jazz Band charts such as Rock Around the Clock and On Broadway and some boys performed a solo. This was a fantastic opportunity for our Prep Jazz Band to represent the School and be privileged to play on such a large stage in front of a huge audience. We even managed to fit in time to purchase a show bag or two!

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

MuSICaL PrOwESS IN THE PrEP SCHOOL

01 The Prep Jazz Band outside the Sunday Telegraph Stage at the Royal Easter Show

02-04 Images from the End of Term Band Showcase

WORDS BYMiss Beck Morris, Director of Instrumental Music

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Wow! What an energetic and jam packed start to the year we have had. This year our Band Program has expanded to four Concert Bands, one Stage Band and two Rock Bands. The addition of the Performance Ensemble to the program meant that boys could be extended beyond what we have offered in Music in the Prep School. The addition of a Year 5 Rock Band has also been a great success and our Junior Band is the biggest it has ever been.

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15JUNE 2015

PrEP SCHOOL COMPuTEr CLub THE yEar OF THE raMWORDS BYMrs Ann Prentice, Director of Learning

WORDS BYMr Angus Fabian, Prep School ICT Technician

With the integration of technology into the classroom occurring at an increasingly earlier stage, it comes as no surprise that the number of boys with an avid interest in technology continues to grow at an exponential rate.

The introduction of Computer Club in 2014 saw an incredible demand from the Prep boys. This prompted the formation of Technology Club in 2015 for Year 3 and 4 boys, which also allowed Computer Club to tailor activities for the more advanced skills of the Year 5 and 6 boys.

This semester, the enthusiastic Computer Club boys have been developing their very own website on a topic of their choice using HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Learning HTML is a rewarding experience that promotes logical thinking and problem solving skills in a fun and engaging environment.

Many of the boys have been designing their personal websites based on a favourite sport or computer game and have cleverly integrated the use of photos, videos and music in order to ensure that their website is both eye-catching and interesting to view. I eagerly

look forward to next term, when among other exciting challenges, the boys will also be judging each other’s websites and voting on their favourite.

Computer Club occurs each Monday afternoon in the Ewan House Multimedia Room from 3.10pm to 4.40pm.

This year, Chinese New Year was celebrated on Wednesday 18 February. To align with their study of Celebrations boys from Years 1 and Year 3 were invited to attend a very special Lion Parade. Mrs Julia Chen and her band of parent helpers then organised a craft session for each of these groups where the boys constructed a Chinese lantern and a lucky red paper envelope; two important symbols of Chinese New Year.

The organising committee presented each boy with a fortune cookie and each classroom with a pair of vertical written couplets as a classroom decoration. To enhance the boys’ interest in this special day, a celebration wall was set up outside the Curriculum Office which has become a huge favourite of the boys as they walk past.

16 THE THISTLE

The Knox Grammar School History Tours have been a tremendously successful tradition for many boys in many ways.

The tradition of a ‘Grand Tour’ commenced “three hundred years ago, when wealthy young Englishmen began taking a post-Oxbridge trek through France and Italy in search of art, culture and the roots of Western Civilisation.” Of course, this educational and existential ‘rite of passage’ can be traced back to the Ancient Greek myths of Heracles, Jason and the Argonauts and Odysseus.

These History Tours, while optional, are a major component of a student’s History education at Knox. It is when, as Mark Twain wrote, that together we “throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in our sails. Explore. Dream. Discover”, that the textbooks and history come alive.

These are the motivations that after 12 years and seven History Tours, drive us to take a group of teenagers to Europe on their ‘grand tour’. On our most recent tour in December 2014, Mr Peter Kariatlis, Mr David McKeith, Mr Chris Weber and Ms Gemma Granozio led 40 students to London, France and Italy.

Our tour started with two days in London where we saw many of the great sights; Westminster

Cathedral, the Churchill War Rooms and the Tower of London, culminating in a river cruise on the Thames and a ride on the London Eye. The highlight for many of the boys was the West End show of Les Misérables. From there we left for Bruges and then Ypres via rail to see the famous battle sites of World War I.

Just about anyone who develops even the mildest interest in the Great War at some point feels drawn to visit the battlefields of the Western Front. Instinctively, it is difficult to pinpoint why the Great War of 1914-1918 continues to cast such a shadow over later generations but it was something the boys understood. To see the paradox of war, glory and sacrifice juxtaposed with the futility and sorrow was very powerful.

Like many Australians before us, we visited Villers-Bretonneux where we visited the Victoria School, Pozieres and Frommelles, Polygon Wood, Tyne Cot in Passchendale as well as the German cemetery Langemark. During our stay in Ypres we attended the Menin Gate service where two of our students had the privilege of laying the wreath on behalf of the Knox Tour Group. The boys felt and understood the sacrifice of the young men who died there, the honour of visiting their graves and the land over which they fought.

We then flew to the beautiful city of Florence, a town that does not seem to have changed much from the time of Medici. Florentines are born into a world of extraordinary, timeless beauty, so it is hardly surprising that they are elegant. Home to the likes of Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo, Florence means one thing: effortless style, and while we were busy showing the boys the Domo or Santa Croce, the boys were drawn to follow in the footsteps of the locals becoming novice

WORDS BYMr Peter Kariatlis, History teacher

SENIOR SCHOOL

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HISTOry TOur 2014: a graNd TOur

17JUNE 2015

01 Knox tour group at the Cobbers statue at the Australian Memorial Park, near Frommelles

02 At the Pantheon, Rome

03 Gelato in Florence

04 Cruising on the River Thames, London

05 Enjoying the leather markets of Florence

06 Knox boys walking through the British Trenches at Newfoundland Memorial Park in the Somme

07 At the Tower of London

08 The historic centre of Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

fashionistas that culminated in the purchases of many leather jackets, scarves and shoes.

Currently there is a debate in the art world between those who argue that seeing the Mona Lisa, the Pantheon or Parthenon on their iPhone or computer is the same thing as seeing it in real life, and there are those who, like myself, oppose that view. It is quite fascinating to think that more than 1,500 years ago St Augustine wrote that, “the world is a book and those who don’t travel read only one.”

The Knox Tours and indeed the education at Knox is a total immersion. I believe that seeing places, listening, smelling, tasting, and touching them is what truly makes them memorable. How lucky are our students here at Knox that, at their age, we can guide them in their education and witness their awe as they immerse themselves in history and are moved by places and people they see and meet overseas?

Thanks are extended to the parents for investing in this wonderful experience for their boys, to the teachers for their leadership and camaraderie, and the boys for the way in which you carried and conducted yourselves overseas.

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18 THE THISTLE

wISdOM LIFE FaITH STudIES aNd SOCIaL JuSTICE dEParTMENT

sOcial JUsticE clUb

The Social Justice Club meets each Friday so all boys and Social Justice Portfolio representatives can initiate support of our Social Justice partners.

Our annual Easter eggs and noodle drive for homeless youth was again an overwhelming success. The generosity of the Knox community brought much hope to the children at Wesley Mission again this year as did the Variety Cycle.

Enthusiastic Year 7 and 8 students raised over $800 for Bandaged Bear Day and the care of children at Westmead Children’s Hospital. Similarly 430 pairs of shoes of all kinds and sizes have been collected by both the Prep and Senior Schools. They will be distributed to street children through the appeal, ‘Shoes for the Philippines’ which will enable them to attend school.

Knox students participated in the Small Schools Super Camp at Nyngan recently. Various Uniting Church Schools lead the camp so children and teachers from remote NSW schools could gather, learn and have fun with Knox students and teachers to guide them. Congratulations to Nick Rahme, Lachlan Hemphill, Angus Pratt, Jack Biggins and Michael Meyerhans for their wonderful effort throughout the week at Nyngan.

SENIOR SCHOOL

WORDS BYMs Helen Clarke, Head of Wisdom Faith Life Studies

01 Perkins Lui (Y11), Liam Moreland (Y11) and Angus Nelson (Y12) mentored the Year 7 and 8 boys involved in the Bandaged Bear Day appeal

02 Angus Pratt (Y11) at Nyngan Super Camp demonstrating the science of aerodynamics to some of the children from the eight remote schools attending the camp

03 Hugh Evans and son Harrison (Y9) participated in The Variety Cycle with 20 boys and Knox staff. Hugh then continued the ride and cycled all the way to Hobart.

04 Marcel Lima and Anton Luger, Y10, presenting to Year 7 students

The Wisdom Life Faith (WLF) Studies and Social Justice Department takes a holistic approach to foster the development of a moral compass through an exploration of belief, religion and ethics. Social Justice issues are integrated into junior programs and learning about advocacy via various Knox Social Justice Projects such as: the PNG Trip, The Couch Project, One Tok Conference, and the Social Justice Club which meets each Friday at lunchtime. Boys can nominate as one of the Social Justice Portfolio Representatives.

The Knox core values of Wisdom, Compassion, Integrity and Faith, in line with the Uniting Church in Australia Christian Ethos, underpins the subject area. The WLF framework seeks to provide guidance for living a meaningful life and enrich the lives of all Knox young men. Each boy is encouraged to research, evaluate, reflect and understand contemporary issues, the impact of the media and informed debate in the light of wisdom teachings of sacred texts. All are encouraged to reflect on the challenges of life in the 21st Century. Wisdom and faith are the essence of each boys’ journey.

The WLF classroom features debate, investigation of open ended questions such as “Why be a person of integrity?” or “What influences my actions?”

or “Do we need rites of passage and rituals?”. Creative journaling, challenge-based learning, enquiry-based activities about the Bible, presenting and sharing ideas on a blog and online platforms are just some of the tools used. The focus is each boy’s spiritual development with study of sacred texts, rituals, symbols, sacred stories, perspectives and worldviews, ultimate questions, advocacy, culture, ethics, and traditional wisdom literature.

An emphasis of the course includes an exploration of the masculine journey in contemporary society. Its traditions, purpose-seeking, meaning, challenges and beliefs in order to effectively negotiate and complete the life journey. Topics also includes ethics, decision-making and philosophical inquiry and are interactive and practical. Our classrooms encourage our boys to debate, ask questions and understand his development as a young man.

This course supports the Total Fitness Program at Knox and the Mentor Program ‘You Can Do It’ as well as the weekly Chapel programs.

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19JUNE 2015

Early 2015 saw the announcement of the Junior Portfolio Leadership Teams for the Academic, Chapel, Co-Curricular, House, Social Justice and Sport Portfolios with Year 8 to 11 students joining the Prefects in working on their visions for these Portfolio areas.

A particular focus of the Academic Portfolio Team has been to develop the ‘Knox Study Tips’ (KST) Presentation Program.

During Semester 1, KST presentations were delivered to Years 7 to 11 at their Year Meetings focussing on providing age-appropriate study tips. With assistance from fellow Portfolio Members, Prefects and Academic Staff, small groups within the Portfolio Team collaborated on a wide range of topics to develop and deliver targeted presentations. Topics included:

•How to Unpack an Assessment Task•The Cornell Note-taking Scaffold•Using the Syllabus to Guide Note-making•Managing Study Time

Working with the Library, KST resources have been uploaded to the LibGuides to enable students and staff to have ready access to both slides and recordings of the presentations.

As the Academic Portfolio Team further develops the program, Academic Staff and student feedback is proving invaluable in fine-tuning the presentations and maximising the benefit to students.

This year a new literacy initiative has been developed with the Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) English Coordinators and cross Key Learning Area (KLA) literacy team in the Junior Secondary Academy. The LIFT (Literacy in Focus Today) program has been designed to target key areas of literacy, in particular writing. Each term we will focus on a particular area of literacy and writing to help support the boys across all their subject areas.

Literacy is one of the seven general capabilities that are a key dimension of the Australian curriculum. The Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians (MCEETYA 2008) recognises literacy as an essential skill for students in becoming successful learners and as a foundation for success in all learning areas. Being literate

increases opportunities for the individual in all aspects of life and lays the foundations for lifelong learning and work.

In Term 1, all Year 7 and Year 8 students started the LIFT day with a core lesson about sentence

structure, where simple, compound and complex sentences were unpacked through activities and discussion. After the kick off lesson and distribution of the supporting work booklet, students continued to their normal classes. In each class for the remainder of the day, students learnt about the importance of sentence structure as related to each subject area.

This initiative is designed to help lift the literacy skills of our students and help them to understand that literacy is a core skill that is connected to every subject area. Following on from the Term 1 LIFT we will be looking at punctuation, paragraphing and extended response writing across all KLAs in Terms 2, 3 and 4.

STudENT LEadErSHIP IN aCTION

LITEraCy IN FOCuS TOday

SENIOR SCHOOL

WORDS BYLachlan Mitchell, Senior Prefect and Head Academic Prefect

WORDS BYMs Janelle Charlton, Director of Studies, Junior Secondary Academy and Ms Sarah Warby, Assistant Head of English, Stage 4

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20 THE THISTLE

My Design and Technology major work was selected for the DesignTECH Exhibition which is an exhibition of outstanding Major Design Projects from Higher School Certificate Design and Technology students around the state. The projects within this year’s exhibition are of an incredibly high standard and reflect evident changes within the design industry as it responds to the emergence of new technologies, materials and processes. Many of this year’s works feature CCTV, GPS and smartphone apps; all components that have only recently been seen in the exhibition. Notably, many projects respond to inherent social concerns regarding sustainability, including the design of energy efficient production methods, the use of recycled materials and waste minimisation, while also responding to key inadequacies within assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities. I found it invaluable to collaborate with these student designers during the exhibition, hearing their experiences and wealth of knowledge of their project areas.

As part of my selection, I had the pleasure of being invited to speak to Year 11 and Year 12 students who are currently undertaking the Design and Technology course. It was a humbling experience to be able to give advice, answer questions and simply speak honestly and openly about my experiences with the hope of relieving some of the stress and anxiety felt by current students. Having experienced the intensities of the design course last year, I was able to explain the struggles in establishing my final idea, overcoming issues with manufacturing and completing the project for marking by the deadline whilst still managing other academic and co-curricular demands.

The processes of designing are present within all facets of daily life. A great deal of these processes I undertook during the realisation of my project are now relevant to university life. Skills such as time management, organisation and planning, product and system design and collaborative work have already been invaluable for my current course; reinforcing the symbiotic nature of design and business faculties.

Congratulations to those students whose work is featured in the exhibition, as well as the other students from Knox whose excellent projects were nominated. Many Knox students excelled which

was no doubt helped by the effort of our dedicated teaching staff. A special thanks is extended to Ms Valent, Mr Grattan and the TAS technicians for their invaluable knowledge and assistance throughout the creation of our projects

Students of Design and Technology often reflect on how much learnt within the course is then used in life after the HSC. All-rounder Jonathon Mathews, who came 8th in the state, also had his Major Project selected for display at the Museum of Applied Arts, Ultimo. Below, he reflects on the DesignTECH exhibition experience and key aspects of his journey to get there.

Ms Melinda Valent, TAS teacher

SENIOR SCHOOL

dESIgNTECH rEFLECTIONWORDS BYJonathon Mathews (OKG14)

01 Jonathon Mathews with his project at the DesignTECH exhibition

02 Project detail

03 Jonathon Mathews’ project ‘The Decide Right Campaign’

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21JUNE 2015

On Wednesday 11 February this year, over 60 proud Knox students attended OnSTAGE, a BOSTES showcase of exemplary Drama in Individual Projects and Group Performances at the Seymour Centre.

For the second year in a row, Knox HSC Drama students were selected for the Group Performance for OnSTAGE; one of only 10 Group Performances from well over 1,000 Group Performances examined for the HSC practical examinations in 2014.

This significant achievement is reflective of the high standard of Academic Drama at Knox in recent years. Over the last four years, Knox students have also gained selection for OnSTAGE in areas such as Video and Set Design which is indicative of the depth of skills that our students possess in Drama.

The final results of the 2014 HSC cohort were amongst the best in the history of Academic Drama at the School which also demonstrates the commitment to excellence in all areas of academic study.

Many of the 2014 Drama students have continued to pursue performance and production training at institutions both in Australia and England. For example:

•Harrison Sharp has been accepted into The Australian Film and Television School

•Dylan Bindczus recently completed studies in acting at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London

•Jasper Dweck is currently auditioning for prestigious acting schools such as the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and LAMDA; also in London

•Joshua Cutrone, Carter Nicholas and Nicholas Perry are finding work in television, film and commercials, and Nicholas has recently appeared as a principal in a play called Grave Concerns at Macquarie University. He has also gained roles in SBS and ABC mini-series as well as studying at The Actors’ Centre of Australia

With the eagerly awaited building of the Knox Performing Arts Centre, our Drama students will experience even more opportunities to explore

the experiential and theoretical aspects of Drama performance and production.

Current Knox students are inspired by the achievements of the 2014 cohort and continue to develop their skills in tasks such as the Year 11 War Performance Poetry Group Performance.

ExCELLENCE IN grOuP PErFOrMaNCEWORDS BYMr Michael Griffiths, Head of Drama

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01 Year 11 students Lachlan Hebron, Jordan Hunter, Sam Schofield, Tom Ferguson, Ashton Craig and Milan Basson hone their skills in group performance (photo by Mitchell Barker, Y7)

02 OnSTAGE group performance – Jasper Dweck, Liam Dummer, Max Jackman and Tom Polkinghorne

22 THE THISTLE

HORTIN ZENG

inspiration Dark skies. Cold floors. Harsh times. A former magician, whose performances once captured the imagination of

large audiences back in America, is now a prisoner of war in a Japanese camp. But his magic never left him. Every day, his card tricks keep him and the other prisoners sane. However, one day, his performance is disrupted, and his precious cards are shredded and taken away from him. Can the magician survive without his cards?

Extract Night entangled her sinister, grotesque fingers over the prison sky. A bead of sweat meandered down my face and hung at the edge of my nose, carving a deep scar into my dry skin. I caught it with my tongue. Its acidic saltiness fused with the insidious stench of my breath aroused a repulsive bitterness on my palette. Yet, it was all too familiar and I hated it. My arms rested on the cafeteria table. My skeletal fingers fiddled with the cards, twitching from malnutrition. Thin like toothpicks, my forearms could have snapped if I lifted a carton of milk. Yet, I still had an ego; I was the smartest guy in this place. No one could beat that out of me.

BEN MARTIN

inspiration My story, ‘Ardennes Nurse’, takes the reader on an emotional journey to Belgium, World War II. Through the eyes of Helga,

a mentally unstable nurse, the reader experiences the hardships and terrors of surviving a day on the battlefield. My story showcases the effects on people experiencing immense trauma during an event; an important modern-day problem that is underestimated by many. I found inspiration for my story when I was browsing through my grandfather’s bookshelf. I spotted a book called The Longest Winter and after reading about the grim occurrences of the Battle of the Bulge, I developed ideas for events that Helga could experience. Then I began crafting my story, using descriptive language to allow the reader to feel and see what Helga was experiencing.

Extract “Hello, is that you, Herbert?” Klaus’ voice trembled. He couldn’t see anything; it was a moonless night. A ghostly figure appeared from behind the darkened silhouette of a gnarled tree. It was Herbert! He fell onto the moistened floor in one swift movement, clutching his chest. As Klaus bent over to inspect the wound, he heard a rustle amongst the brush. Before there was time to blink, Klaus’ arms jolted inelegantly as his face planted into a rock, protruding from the raw mud. With little consciousness remaining, he attempted to rip the bullet from his blood-caked torso. Two deserted corpses lay in amongst the brush, lying there. No one would mourn for them on this cold, cold night.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Creative writing is a valuable skill that provides many benefits for our students at Knox. Importantly, it allows them to use their imagination and develop their reading, writing and language skills. It also helps students to build a sense of identity.

By creating characters and storylines, students explore their own feelings and morals, and learn the skill of empathy, which in turn helps to develop their overall social skills. Writing and developing a story can also provide a tremendous boost of confidence and a sense of pride for students.

In Term 1, Year 8 English students demonstrated their creative writing abilities in their first assessment task which required them to write a short story about the concept of survival and the traits needed for humans to survive, both physically and mentally. Some extracts from students’ short stories are showcased here with students sharing their inspiration for their survival stories. The diverse characters, settings and storylines highlight the creative minds and vivid imaginations of our students.

SurvIvaL OF THE FITTEST WORDS BYMs Anita Playoust, English Teacher

HENRY CROSS

inspiration My short story follows a group of ambushed Australian soldiers on the Kokoda Trail during World

War II. The main character, Joey, sacrifices himself to save Jack, his best friend. Jack learns to survive in the jungle through perseverance, sheer determination to survive for his fiancé and to make sure Joey’s death wasn’t for nothing.

Extract I made a beeline for the foliage on my right; it didn’t seem quite as dense as the rest. I crashed through the undergrowth, hearing bullets zip past my head. I lifted my arms in front of my tear-streaked face, as if they would actually protect me against the deadly rain falling around me. I heard Joey’s heart-wrenching scream, cut out quickly by more gunfire. I tried to ignore it and just kept running. The cascades of tears mixed with the relatively dried mud on my face surely made me look like a monster. I stopped sprinting after about ten minutes, when the sounds of war faded behind me.

Okay, Jack. Think. You’re going to get back to your fiancé, and you’re going to make Joey proud. You’re going to make a shelter. You’re going to survive.

The cascades of tears mixed with the relatively dried mud on my face surely made me look like a monster.

He couldn’t see anything; it was a moonless night. A ghostly figure appeared from behind the darkened silhouette of a gnarled tree. It was Herbert!

Thin like toothpicks, my forearms could have snapped if I lifted a carton of milk.

23JUNE 2015

WILLIAM STUDDERT

inspiration My story, “Just another day in paradise”, delves into the devastating effect of a catastrophic tsunami that hits an unsuspecting family

on vacation. It explores the characters against the backdrop of the tragic event and how they react and adapt to their survival situation. Aware of the devastating effect of tsunamis, I researched the 2004 Boxing Day tragedy that hit several coastal areas in the Indian Ocean. Living in such a safe place as Sydney, tragedies like this are quite unimaginable. It was a challenge to write about one, especially from a first person point of view. Even more remarkable than the disaster itself, was how anyone survived at all, thus the reason for the dark tone of my story, as I didn’t want to understate the impact of the tsunami.

Extract Walls bending and windows shattering, we stand our ground on the roof, watching as the tides come crashing through, eliminating everything that comes in their way. The people on the streets are like little ants scurrying around looking for a home; a shelter, anything that could protect them from the savage tide that wanted to wipe us off the face of the earth. The whole house shakes, threatening to crumble as the foundation of the building is put to the test under the weight of the torrential torrents. Through the roar of the water and the sound of destruction, I hear faint screams. What about God? The ‘Almighty One’ I had been praying to for all these years? This would have been a great time for Him to make an entrance. I begin to feel the water wrap around my ankles; trying to clasp me and imprison me for eternity. All holding hands, Clare and I cover Sara’s eyes from the horror occurring in front of us.

WILLIAM LIU

inspiration The Australian Humans Right Commission conducted a recent inquiry into children in closed immigration detention, which revealed

that children had been detained in conditions that were inhumane, with many children in detention suffering from anxiety and depression. This report became the inspiration of my story. My narrative is about the story of a young boy and his friend living in one of these detention centres. I felt if I explored that environment, I could bring a sense of what true survival is all about: the constant battle between hope and despair. I hope I have served the survivors of Australia’s detention centres at least some justice.

Extract The harsh grating noise of laboured breath woke me from my stupor. The blinking lights from the monitors winked diligently, the only light inside the room. Two bloodshot eyes opened abruptly, focusing on my face.

“Mohsen”, he rasped. “I’ve been thinking about my future here. I can’t stand it anymore. In war, you just die once. Here, in detention, you die every day.”

I noticed he was crying, the teardrops trickling down his tanned forehead.

“Mohsen, please, promise me this.” Ahmad took a deep breath. “Help me to kill myself. To end it all. I am not dead, but I am not alive. Simply a ghost with a beating heart.”

The words rang through my head; an endless drone, drowning out the world around me. The plea felt like the weight of the world. I could not stop thinking. What was mercy? Did I have the right to deliver the gift of death?

JAMES PRICE

inspiration

What does it truly mean to survive?

Is staying human, being benevolent, altruistic and feeling love, worth the final price that is death?

Cowardice, the gripping fear plaguing human existence. Repressing great things, shifting humans away from humanity.

Can a coward exhibit courage in the face of the final enemy?

Can death, the last enemy be truly defeated?

How can one truly survive against the concluding oblivion?

Extract “Miss Rose. My name is Dr Zere. I am afraid you have been diagnosed with lethena disease. It has a high chance of killing you.”

“Is there anything that can be done?” I murmur as I take in my surroundings. I am in a white, sterile room smelling faintly of antiseptic. It is packed with beeping machines.

“There is one option” Dr Zere lets out with a sigh.

An operation. It will give me a seventy per cent chance of survival. But the consequences! If this operation goes ahead, I lose the most important part of myself. My humanity. I will no longer be able to feel compassion, empathy or love. It is my choice. What should I do? I have only one day to decide. Sleep grips me like a vice and pulls me under.

Two bloodshot eyes opened abruptly, focusing on my face.

Through the roar of the water and the sound of destruction, I hear faint screams. What about God?

If this operation goes ahead, I lose the most important part of myself. My humanity.

24 THE THISTLE

When future historians pinpoint the exact moment the Knox Academy of Performing Arts turned from a school body to a capable and wondrous talent, they will opt for March’s performance of Crazy For You. The five months from the auditions to walking the boards embraced rigorous rehearsal schedules and well-deserved rewards. One week after the performance, I sat down with the team to gather an insight into what went on behind the scenes and to gauge what makes a KAPA production truly special.

As producer and director, Mr Charles Hambling has two roles. As Director he “cooks up a concept for the piece in the space”, directs the movement of traffic on stage with choreographer Kerry Woods, and nurtures the characterisations. As Producer, Hambling “sought to minimise cost while offering a high standard of production involving the maximum

number of students”. Philosophically Hambling prided, “our musicals are open to other schools, both independent and public; we cast roles - not the school or student, to stay true to the creators’ intents.”

The common theme running through the team was one of trust, communication and student enrichment. “Everyone is welcome to contribute ideas and we usually forget whose idea it was. We all get on extremely well, make a lot of jokes and solve problems very quickly,” Hambling noted. Andrew

Rosenberger, a practice student teacher from Indiana University revered the team’s achievement, “the great thing about this production was that everyone was a linchpin”.

Jeremy Koch from Innovative Production Services stressed how students learn from professionals, “students are encouraged to discover what running a production is like; operating lights and working closely with us allows students to gain industry experience.” Mr Andrew Chessher, Assistant Music Director, affirmed what he enjoyed seeing most was how “students learnt to use the blocking and direction from Hambling as a scaffold, but they chose to give it their own flavour, which is something we prize as being very special”.

This year Crazy For You boasted a record number of microphones on stage; 37. Bob Wheatley from Stolen Planet Productions was in charge of balancing those microphones and outlined, as a professional, that what set KAPA apart was the “quality of performers and staff”. “This year’s cast was very strong. I work at other schools. Some of them have more people on

Crazy FOr yOu

WORDS BYOscar Bruck, Year 11 student 01

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KNOX ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

25JUNE 2015

stage but their orchestra is comprised of professional musicians. At Knox it is all students and it sounds phenomenal.” To this, Mr James Brice, Music Director, grinned and replied with KAPA’s raison d’etre, “The emphasis is very much on the students; we are one of the few schools in the country that have the capability to have a wholly student pit, and the only school that has students playing the professional book without any concessions for our musicals. That is something that brings a whole new level of opportunity to a production.”

“The most important thing about our production team is we laugh a lot”, they beamed. “We aspire to the highest possible standard, and when we reach that standard in areas, or even in moments, on stage, it is all worthwhile.”

Look out for KAPA’s next production, The Music Man, which opens on 3 September in the Business Studies Centre Auditorium.

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01 I Got Rhythm: a big finish for the show in Deadrock

02 Doppelgangers - The real Bela Zangler (Chris Caprioli) is imitated by Bobby (Jamie Smith, left)

03 Bobby and Polly (Jamie Smith and Annelise Hall) are finally reconciled

04 The “Pit” Orchestra

05 Interior of Lank’s Saloon, Deadrock, Nevada

06 The Tech Crew get to drive Mr Bob Wheatley’s sound desk

07 A tense moment in Deadrock

08 Bobby Child (Jamie Smith) fantasises about a showbiz career

09 Anton Luger learning to operate a follow spot with Mr Hambling

26 THE THISTLE

As Australians, we are exceptionally fortunate to have some of the world’s most talented and creatively inspired composers here in our own country, state, and believe it or not, our suburbs.

And, what’s more, our leading Australian composers are regarded as some of the finest in the world, and are sharing in life’s experiences together with thousands of potential performers. Take a moment to think of walking the streets with Mozart, Brahms or Bernstein?

At the Knox Academy of Performing Arts (KAPA), it is a priority for our boys to meet, share, experience and perform Australian music by current Australian composers. There is an exceptional collaborative and unique musical experience which occurs when composers and performers unite.

The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is but one of 47 KAPA ensembles which are investing in this extraordinary experience to explore our unique Australian sound.

Knox musicians and ensembles have performed works by leading Australian composers such as; Greg Butcher, Brendan Collins, Graeme Koehne, Brian Buggy, Tim Ferrier and Brian Hogg with performances on local, national and international stages as well as recordings.

Most recently, our Symphonic Wind Ensemble embarked on the challenge to perform the masterful ‘Tour de force’ work Twist by internationally acclaimed NSW Wind Band composer Ms Jodie Blackshaw. SWE performed this work at the 2015 Australian National Band Championships, held at Easter, in the premiere Junior A Grade division.

Twist, a professionally graded work composed for Wind Orchestra, is inspired by the shape, spirit and history of Australia’s Murray River; the Wiradjuri people of the Albury-Wodonga region call the river ‘Millewa’. The work is divided into six sections: Survival, Reflection, Discovery, Obsession, Carnevale and Ascension. It draws inspiration from historical and geographical references throughout the past 180 years.

In preparation for the National Band Championships, Jodie Blackshaw generously provided invaluable insight into the work, sharing many images, inspiration and stories of the meaning behind Twist in a remarkable 7am master-class in March. All participants agreed that the opportunity was “absolutely fantastic”.

Ms Blackshaw also came to support SWE in our Bandstand Concert in March and our 2015 National Championship performance. She was accompanied by husband Wing Commander David Worrall and their daughter Matilda for whom Twist is dedicated.

Sharing in real live Australian music provides our students with unique and lifelong memories which hopefully brings pride and highlights that we never stop learning.

Jodie Blackshaw stated, “This experience enables the players to take ownership of the piece they are learning to play. This simple idea is incredibly under-utilised in educational wind band literature yet it offers students and the conductor an opportunity to grow and change in ways they had perhaps not thought possible, at any stage of learning.”

I firmly believe one of the greatest gifts we have to offer is to experience, create and share in the joys and emotion of live music. I encourage the Knox community to enjoy our upcoming music performances.

KNOX ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

THE ESSENTIaL auSTraLIaN SOuNd WORDS BYMr James Brice, Head of Co-Curricular Performing Arts

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01 The Knox Symphonic Wind Ensemble upstanding with composer Ms Jodie Blackshaw following their performance of Twist in the Great Hall

2015 aUstraliaN NatiONal baNd chamPiONshiPs

SWE placed 2nd in the premiere Junior A Grade Division, with an aggregate total of 470/500. They were placed first in the March selection category, with 2nd placings in the Test Piece, Own Choice and Sacred Item selections.

The Knox Concert Band was placed equal 2nd in the aggregate and placed 3rd on count-back with a score of 459/500 in the Junior C Grade Division. The Concert Band placed 2nd in the Sacred Item, March and Own Choice music selections, and 3rd in the Test Piece.

2015 KaPa calENdar highlights

22-23 August NSW State Band Championships

3-6 September Years 7-9 Musical

19 September Knox Symphony Orchestra departs for China Tour

8 November Celebration Sing Out, Sydney Town Hall

28 November KAPA In Concert, Knox Great Hall

27JUNE 2015

LaNTErNS: THE MaKINg OF a MuSIC vIdEO WORDS BYMr David Hayes, Media Communications Coordinator

It began as a simple idea. Having been moved by the sound of hundreds of Prep and Senior School voices uniting to sing Birds of Tokyo’s pop song Lanterns at the School’s 90th Anniversary Assembly in June, Knox’s video producer, Jefferson Grainger (OKG96), had a vision to transform the song into a music video celebrating Knox’s school spirit and community.

A talented team of experts was enlisted to arrange the composition (Mr Andrew Chessher) and then professionally record (Mr Bob Wheatley) the song from bare bones percussion through to a lush multi-track arrangement featuring almost a hundred Prep and Senior School voices, dozens of instrumental soloists, brass and string ensembles and the Knox Pipes and Drums.

Filmmakers Jefferson Grainger and Chris Grainger (OKG98) of Corporate Video Australia brought the song to life on the screen, spending many hours capturing school life and the music recording process, and then editing and crafting the final clip.

At last count, Lanterns has had been viewed online more than 11,000 times. In 2015, it was showcased in the School Marketing Communications Podcast

and the School Marketers Network Newsletter as an example of excellence in school communications.

We are extremely grateful to the young musicians and singers, along with the many staff, who enthusiastically contributed to this massive collaborative project.

ExcErPt frOm Lanterns

On we march

With a midnight song

We will light our way

With our lanterns on

On we march

Till we meet the dawn

We will light our way

With our lanterns on

VIDEO LINK

www.knox.nsw.edu.au/lanterns

28 THE THISTLE

Over the last few years the Knox Sports Academy (KSA) has introduced a number of programs in the Prep School which make up the Prep Athletic Development Program to assist our young students in preparing for their sporting life and to achieve their goals.

This includes separate skill-based programs for K-2 boys and Years 3-6 students as well as a specifically designed program which operates in the mornings for Years 3-6 students who wish to improve their fitness and enjoyment of their sport.

There is also the Fitness for the Brain program which promotes hand-eye co-ordination and physical fitness. This runs at least once a week all year round and utilises the Life Kinetik model that was developed overseas. Fitness for the Brain is organised by senior KSA staff member, Mr Kai Lammert.

These programs in the Prep School have a direct correlation with sporting success such as our fantastic results at the IPSHA, NSWCIS and NSWPSSA cross country events but even more

importantly, quality of life improvements that come with being fit.

Research has proved time and again the benefits of exercise for life and for academic learning and social communication skills. These important aspects of students’ lives form the basis of the Physical side of the Knox Total Fitness model. Physical Fitness plays an important part in overall fitness to enable students to achieve their potential and ensure they look, feel and do their best.

The KSA keeps abreast of current research in sport for children and adolescents to stay at the cutting edge of information and change. This results in continual improvements to the programs offered to all K-12 students with the aim of providing the best services possible.

KSA staff continue to support and develop programs for both team sports and individual sports. This is achieved through continually improving mentoring, nutritional advice, sports psychology, best practices for the planning of sequential skills programs, and staff training in the latest in coaching methods and Positive Education. The KSA sources coaches of quality whilst also providing a pathway for Old Boys to develop a coaching career.

Whilst the KSA offers many sporting activities for teams and individuals, at its core is the Athletic Development Centre which co-ordinates the staff and programs that ensure each student is able to take advantage of all that Knox can provide. As the pictures on these pages show; it starts at the Prep and continues right through the Senior School.

KSA staff also hope that involvement in sport does not finish when a boy finishes Year 12 but that the skills and fitness each boy has acquired will become life-long skills.

KNOX SPORTS ACADEMY

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FITNESS FOr LIFE WORDS BYMr Chuck Ardron, Head of Knox Sports Academy

29JUNE 2015

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Nicholas Frost (Y10) has represented NSW on several occasions and most recently won a gold medal in the Pentathlon (100m, long jump, hurdles, discus, 800m) with a score of 3792 points at the Australian Teams Championships held in Perth

Cameron McEntyre (Y11) has been selected to represent Australia in javelin at the 2015 World Youth Championships after winning the gold medal at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships (Photo courtesy of David Tarbotton)

Ewan Shingler (Y8) is a State and National Champion in Orienteering

Vincent Dai (Y12) represented Australia at the World Youth Games in swimming

A HOME AT SCHOOL

LEadErSHIP SKILLS arE CONTINuaLLy ENCOuragEd

30 THE THISTLE

BOYS TO MEN CAMPS

The Years 10 and 11 Boarders are provided the opportunity to develop their leadership skills through the wonderful ‘Boys to Men’ camps. Boys apply to become mentors and the positions are highly sought after.

The camps have continually improved over the past six years to ensure that the more senior boarders are trained and guided by our School psychologists and boarding staff in mentoring the Years 7 and 8 boys throughout their time in boarding. This is achieved through working very closely in many fun and challenging activities during a three-day camp. As a result, the boys develop strong connections and friendships, bringing the Boarding community closer together.

I would like to share the personal reflections of Jackson Adams (Y11) and Toby Craig (Y8) on their positive experiences on the Boys to Men Camp during Term 1 this year.

Jackson Adams (Y11) reflects on the Boys to Men Camp

In Week 3 of Term 1, Year 11 boys went on their second Boys to Men Camp with their Year 8 mentees.

My mentee is Declan Owers (Y8). We have grown a lot closer as friends and as mentor and mentee since our first camp together last year. Declan is a very confident kid as I learnt on the first camp when he had no trouble going down the abseil or up the rock climbing wall. I also learnt that he was a very confident mountain biker and he was always happy to ask questions and learn how to do new things. A great example of this was when we were doing the high ropes crossover course. This is where you and your mentee would be on a tightrope strap, hooked up to a pulley system, and you would have to walk across the 10cm wide strap and cross past each other in the middle, 15 metres off the ground. He was slightly confused when we got to the middle as he thought there was no possible way that we could crossover. We talked for a minute or so and slowly passed each other, solving the problem successfully.

Throughout the rest of the camp, Declan and I were able to work through all the challenges we faced. Overall, it was a very enjoyable camp.

WORDS BYMr Brian Sullivan, Head of Boarding

01 Toby Craig (Y8) and Will West (Y11) about to abseil

02 Jackson Adams (Y11) and Declan Owers (Y8)

03 Khoby McDonald (Y8) rock climbing

04 Harry Kemp (Y11) and Tate Osborne (Y8) about to complete the crossover

05 At the start of the Kuringgai Chase Special Olympics Fun Run

06 Year 12 borders and a happy special athlete

07 Mr Brian Sullivan with Year 11 boarders Peter Tam, Andre Fung and Yoshi Ikeuchi

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31JUNE 2015

WHOLE OF LIFE PROGRAMS SHINE THROUGH

Kuringgai Chase Special Olympics Fun Run On Sunday morning 15 March, over 40 of our Years 10, 11 and 12 Boarders volunteered to take part in The Kuringgai Chase Special Olympics Fun Run. Our Boarders cheered the children on, and even carried their special athlete to ensure they all had a wonderful time. Many parents of the special athletes were overwhelmed by the compassion and warmth shown by the Knox boys on the day! We are very proud of our Boarders’ commitment to this event each year for these children with a disability.

BOARDING CAREERS EVENING

Newly appointed School Counsellor and Careers Advisor Mrs Linda Gomez gave a very informative presentation to all the Stage 6 Boarders on looking ahead with university applications, processes of when to apply, closing dates, ATAR and ranking and preferences. The boys had time to ask questions and receive important information about the lunchtime seminars on offer, the Careers Quick Links on Student Café, professional cadetships and international student considerations.

The Boarders look forward to future presentations by Mrs Gomez on such topics as; what goes in an application, service providers and job interview techniques.

Camp Reflection from Toby Craig (Y8)

Knox Grammar School’s ‘Boys to Men’ program is an experience of a lifetime. It really mentally turns you into a man. Being around young men (mentors) really helped us to mature as individuals. On camp, everyone is equal so there is no need for people to show off to become popular. Everyone can just be who they are and this helps to create a better and stronger rapport between fellow peers and between mentor and mentee.

My mentor (Will West, Y10) is just a pure great bloke and after supporting me on the ‘Boys to Men Camp’ he continues to look out for me between periods when I’m heading to class. Will is always an easy bloke to approach and to have a conversation with and is always interested in what’s going in my world. It is so great to have that level of support.

Together, Will and I developed a rapport in a number of team-building activities on camp such as: leap of faith, giant leap, canoeing, abseiling and rock-climbing at beautiful Fitzroy Falls. We also did some stand up paddle boarding at Wollongong with a pod of dolphins, which was cool!

Some of the important qualities I learned from Will is the importance of being a great bloke and being honest and having a sense of humour whilst upholding the need to take care of the immediate job at hand. Will seems to do this very well and is a great role model to have.

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32 THE THISTLE

KNOx gaLa dayWORDS BYMr Kent Walker (OKG79), President, Knox Parents’ Association

The Knox Parents’ Association has been enjoying the annual morning teas in Term 1. Generous Knox families have opened their homes to host their year groups and we have met a wide contingent of the Knox community.

These morning teas, along with the year suppers provide a valuable and thoroughly enjoyable way to meet other Knox families and we appreciate the efforts of the convenors and the hosts in arranging these events.

For new parents the morning teas are a welcome addition to the beginning of the school year and many friendships are formed at these gatherings. We are always entertained with lovely anecdotes from Mrs Denise Weeks, Mr Mark Hemphill and Ms Julie Wiseman and they provide us with useful practical information regarding the boys.

KNOX COMMUNITY

ParENT MOrNINg TEaS aT THE PrEP SCHOOL WORDS BYMrs Susie Lawson, Prep Convenor, Knox Parents’ Association

After many years of perfect weather on Gala Day we were probably overdue for a wet and damp day. Despite the constant rain with heavy showers at times, nothing failed to dampen the community spirit that existed between all those who attended and the many Knox parents who volunteered to assist.

After a quick change to wet weather plans on the Thursday prior, many of the stalls were moved into the Great Hall, which became a hive of activity and a place of shelter during the day. The Great Hall once again proved how versatile and essential the building has become and allowed Gala Day to continue regardless of the weather conditions outside.

A huge thank you to the Gala Day Convenor, Knox Parents’ Association Committee, Year Group Convenors from K-12 and parents, who arranged their stalls and parent roster, set up, cleaned up and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make everything run so smoothly; fantastic effort everyone.

To the many food stalls (who braved the rain) the cake stall, café, sweets, bookstall, bargain bazaar, show bags, lucky dips, craft, Social Justice and other stalls all traded well with most selling out. Well done to everyone involved.

This year we warmly welcomed the parents from the Wahroonga Preparatory School who ran the face painting. We look forward to their ongoing involvement each year.

A huge thank you to all those talented boys who performed in the bands, ensembles, choirs, the soloists and musical groups - every time I passed by the Great Hall Foyer it was overflowing with appreciative spectators.

Thank you to all the parents and supporter groups who assisted on barbeques, Souvlaki, ESL, sold drinks, hot chips and helped to satisfy the appetite of a wet, cold and hungry crowd.

Gala Day this year, more than ever, showed once again the strong sense of community spirit that exists at Knox.

33JUNE 2015

34 THE THISTLE

It was an honour to take over the Presidency of the OKGA at this year’s AGM. I take on this role at what is a significant time for the OKGA. There has been a lot of change recently in the way the Association operates, with renewed focus on networking and mentoring, communications with members of all ages, affiliated associations and benevolence. Additionally, there is the continued involvement in maintaining contact between Old Boys through reunions and regional dinners, and support of the rugby, cricket, football and pipe band groups amongst others.

There is also, of course, the close connection with the School. We continue to work closely with the Headmaster and his team to promote and foster the interest of Old Boys in the School. This close relationship provides benefits both ways and remains a key part of what we actively do. John Weeks and the School Council are very supportive of the OKGA, and likewise, we are keen to maintain the strong and committed relationship with the School.

Following the implementation of the OKGA Strategic Plan, we now have a strong foundation on which we can rely to support our membership. In our recent Strategy workshop, the Committee recognised the need for flexibility and change, and to be able to communicate appropriately to members of all ages. We will deliver this through

print, electronic and social media, with our weekly E-News, Email, Facebook, website, and The Thistle and The Clan magazines.

Our Benevolence Program, ‘Old Boys for Old Boys’, set up last year to help fellow Old Boys in need has received significant support. Over time, the meaning of the OKGA to Old Boys has changed. It has evolved from not only maintaining contact between Old Boys and support for the School, but also to expand its reach to assist with the welfare of Old Boys. Many Old Boys have welcomed this change by offering their support either financially or in kind, or by seeking support from the OKGA. We have already helped many Old Boys and this type of support has also been beneficial during the period after the Royal Commission. The Board of Governors appointed to advise the OKGA on the uses of the fund comprises notable and experienced Old Boys and their involvement is most appreciated. We continue to look to our members, though, to help both financially with the fundraising and also with volunteering their time and expertise where required.

Our networking and mentoring events remain well received and attended, and we will continue to develop and expand these in the coming year so they are beneficial to Old Boys of all ages and at different stages in their careers and lives. We also have over 150 Old Boys registered as mentors in various industries and this number continues to grow.

As well as the regular thirteen ‘five-year’ reunions to be held this year, some of which will combine with watching the Firsts Rugby and a tour of the School, we will be holding functions in Melbourne and New York, having already held successful gatherings in Canberra, Brisbane and Singapore earlier in the year. Our members also enjoy key events held at the School such as the Anzac Service and the Honouring Parade.

The OKGA Scholarships continue to be very popular and are sought after. They are offered to sons or grandsons of Old Boys and, depending on the scholarship, provide support for tuition and/or boarding. For 2016, we will be expanding the scholarship program further to provide a bursary for boys involved in cadets.

OLd KNOx graMMarIaNS’ aSSOCIaTION

The Old Knox Grammarians’ Association (OKGA) is a group of over 10,000 registered members, all of whom share the common experience of having attended Knox.

The OKGA is all about staying in touch with those who share that common experience, philosophy and connection. This section of The Thistle was prepared by the Old Knox Grammarians’ Association.

iN this sEctiON

34 President’s Report

37 Events and Reunions

41 News of Old Boys

staYiNg iN tOUch The OKGA maintains an online portal for OKGA members, www.okga.org.au.

The OKGA also produces a calendar of events which features events for Old Boys and selected school events. Old Boys who are organising events such as reunions and functions are encouraged to contact the office to ensure they are included in the calendar.

cONtact OKGA Office Telephone: +61 2 9487 0419 Fax: +61 2 9488 2908 Email: okga@knox.nsw.edu.au PO Box 5008 Wahroonga, NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA

FROM THE PRESIDENT

PrESIdENT’S COLuMN

KNOX GRAMMAR SCHOOL ALUMNI

WORDS BYMark Wilson (OKG80), President

35JUNE 2015

83rd aNNuaL gENEraL MEETINg OF THE OLd KNOx graMMarIaNS’ aSSOCIaTION

We continue to work closely with the Senior Knoxonians. They are an energetic group who provide significant time and support to the OKGA and the School, and I enjoy and appreciate their involvement in the various programs and events that are held.

A newly formed group, POKOB (Parents of Knox Old Boys), has been created to fill the void for parents once a son finishes his schooling at Knox. Many parents enjoy the Knox community while their son is at school, so POKOB is a way to ensure some of that relationship continues. The OKGA will work with POKOB to help build it up and provide support for its members.

The support of the OKGA Office is critical to our ongoing work. We are lucky to have two full time staff in Lachlan Liao (OKG98) and Tracey Sutton who are committed to the implementation of many of the Association’s initiatives and the ongoing administrative requirements. I thank them for their dedication and hard work. I also thank Bruce Kennedy (OKG59) for all his dedication and hard work during 2014, particularly with the creation of The Clan.

I will continue to build on the successful growth so well-developed by the previous President, Rob Tulloch, whose leadership over the last three years has lifted the OKGA to a new level of strength and stability. Rob’s commitment to Old Boys and building of strong relationships during his time as President has made the OKGA all the more relevant to the 10,000 or so members.

The new Committee of 2015 is focussed on the continued support for Old Boys. We have members of the Committee ranging from a 2012 leaver to a 1950 leaver managing sub-committees on Benevolence, Communications, Events, Finance, Networking, Mentoring, Affiliated Associations, History and Parents of Old Boys. I look forward to the year ahead with the many initiatives and activities planned.

February saw the 83rd AGM of the OKGA Inc., and the instalment of its 30th President, Mark Wilson (OKG80). After completing his term as President, Rob Tulloch (OKG75) will continue as part of the OKGA Executive and is still actively involved with the Old Boys Pipe Band.

Most members of the OKGA attended Knox as a student. It is not a regular occurrence that other people are recognised for their service to the OKGA by being made Honorary Members of the OKGA. It was with much pleasure that Byron Cullen and Nick Hamley were given this honour at the AGM.

Whilst Nick attended Shore, he has been part of the Knox Old Boys Rugby Club for over 20 years, serving in many roles, and seeing the Club through thick and thin.

Byron recently retired as the School’s Business Manager, but during his time in office he went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that the OKGA received the full support it required to operate on a daily basis and ensure that the affiliated groups (Sports and Pipe Band) were able to continue with the necessary insurance.

OKGA COMMITTEE FOR 2015

mark wilson (OKg80), President

Mark is currently the Chief Financial Officer at Komatsu Australia, a manufacturer and distributor of heavy machinery in the mining and construction industries. He previously worked in sports administration and the private equity industry, and prior to that for Optus and BHP. Mark studied Law and Economics at Sydney University, is a Chartered Accountant and completed the Executive Development Program in INSEAD, France. Mark is father of Alistair (OKG14). Mark has been active with the OKGA since joining the committee in 2004, holding the roles of Treasurer, Vice President and now President. Mark is also the Chairman of the OKGA Benevolence Committee.

richard martyr (OKg78), vice President

Richard is a lawyer in a sole practice. He is Director of Legal Affairs Management and also Managing Director of Nobleheart Telecommunications. Richard’s sons attended Knox, William (OKG12) and Hamish (OKG14). Richard first became involved with the OKGA Committee in the 80s for several years while he was President of the Knox Old Boys Rugby. Richard played 300 games for Knox Old Boys Rugby over 15 years during the 80s and 90s, holding the role of President for many years. Richard is still involved with refereeing at the School and came back to the OKGA Committee in 2014.

ian King (OKg69), treasurer

Ian is now semi-retired and working in the therapeutic goods industry. He has been part of the OKGA committee since 2011 and has held the role of Treasurer since 2012. Ian is a life member of the Knox Old Boys Rugby Club and spends most Saturdays in winter supporting them from

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01 Recent Past Presidents: Ian MacPherson (OKG55) 2006-2008, Michael Kelynack (OKG85) 2009-2011 and Rob Tulloch (OKG75) 2012-2014

02 Mark Wilson and the newest members of the OKGA, Byron Cullen and Nick Hamley

Continued next page

36 THE THISTLE

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

the sidelines. Ian’s sons attended Knox – Stuart (OKG97), Michael (OKG99) and James (OKG02). He also has a grandson enrolled at Knox.

ian frame (OKg64), secretary

Ian is the Principal of Professional Marketing Services. Since leaving school, Ian has also become a life member of the Australian Window Association, and received awards from NSW Suburban Rugby for Service to Rugby (2004) and Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council for Outstanding Community Service (2007). Ian was also a Scout leader for 15 years. Ian’s sons, James (OKG92) and Robert (OKG08) attended Knox and he also has a grandson enrolled at the School. Ian was a member of the OKGA Committee throughout the 90s, and then after a short break came back to the Committee in 2008. Ian has also been very involved with Knox Old Boys Rugby Club and was made a life member in 2007.

Nick brown (OKg12)

Nick is currently studying a combined Bachelor of Arts/Law at Macquarie University. In his spare time, he is an active member of the NSW Rugby Referees where he referees Premiership, Suburban and Schoolboy (1st/2nd XV) games. Nick also helps present Refereeing and Assistant Refereeing courses on the North Shore and Northern Beaches and is the Secretary of Sydney North Rugby Referees. As well as this, Nick also helps co-ordinate rugby refereeing for the School.

Edric chaffer (OKg50)

Since retiring, Edric has been highly active with Knox and the OKGA. Edric has spent many hours working in the School’s Archives on various projects including the ‘Oral History Group’ for Knox’s Centenary History, War Service and Honour Rolls, and updating information in the School Database on past students. Edric is currently the Honorary Secretary (and Past President) of the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists (Australian section). Edric is also very active with the Senior Knoxonians as a committee member and also Past President. Edric was recently a recipient of the OKGA Thistle Medal.

geoff cramp (OKg82)

Geoff is Manager of Executive Services at the Workers Compensation Commission of NSW and proud grandfather of four. Geoff has been part of the OKGA Committee since 2011 and has been involved with Knox Old Boys Rugby since 2004.

James gellert (OKg07)

As a Rugby tragic, James has been working for the Australian Rugby Union for five years in marketing and corporate partnership roles. James has been part of Knox Old Boys Rugby since 2010 and is currently in his third season as Vice President and assistant secretary. James was also part of the School’s Surf Life Saving program at Whale Beach and has continued his involvement with the Club holding the role of Vice Captain for the last three years. James has been part of the OKGA Committee since 2013.

tony Osman (OKg57), honorary historian

Tony is a semi-retired geologist and Senior Geological Adviser to PT Carsurin, Jakarta, Indonesia. Tony holds a number of roles with various geological bodies; including the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Australasian Institute of Mineral Valuers and Appraisers (MAIMVCA), Mineral Industry Consultants Association (MICA), and is also an Assessor for the Mining and Energy Annual Reports, Australian Reporting Awards Group. Tony is a Rotarian at Lindfield, and member of the International Committee. In his role as Honorary Historian, Tony compiled The First 70 Years: A History, which covers the history of the OKGA from 1929-1999. He is currently working on the History of (Masonic) Lodge Knox, UGLNSW No 909, 1957-2010. As well as this, he is accumulating data for Centenary History of OKGA 1929-2029. Tony is also a member of the Senior Knoxonians Committee and was recently awarded the OKGA Thistle Medal.

ted metcalf (OKg56), President of the senior Knoxonians

Ted Metcalf first came to Knox in 1947 and completed his leaving certificate in 1956. Since then, he was in franchise management for Coca-Cola South Pacific, Fund Management with ANZ Bank, and a period as non-executive Corporate Governance Consultant with several financial institutions. Now retired, Ted is the Honorary Secretary of St John’s Uniting Church, Wahroonga. He is the proud father of Sarah and Jane (both attended Ravenswood) and proud grandfather of six; including Alex Heydon (OKG12), Sam Heydon (Y10) and Oliver Rich (OKG14). Ted and his (late) wife Philippa married at the Knox Chapel in 1965.

grahame Pratt (OKg77)

Grahame has come back to the Committee after a stint in the 80s including a term as Secretary. Although a life member of Knox Old Boys Rugby, Grahame has retired from both the stockbroking world and rugby and is now content to watch his sons Angus (Y11) and Louis (Y8) achievements at school.

Jack shute (OKg60)

A retired accountant, Jack is now the Director of NSW Suburban Rugby Union and volunteers at the SAN Hospital’s the ACTION Foundation which supports people with chronic mental problems. Jack is father of Nathan (OKG90) and Chris (OKG93). Jack has been an OKGA Committee member during the 80s and joined again in 2011. As well as this, he is a Life Member of Knox Old Boys Rugby and is the OKGA Committee’s liaison to the OKGA’s associated clubs. Jack is also a member of the Senior Knoxonian committee.

Jon stewart (OKg03)

Jon is currently a senior executive with Sydney Airport Corporation Ltd, operator of Sydney Airport, leading government relations and major projects for the organisation. Jon has worked in the aviation industry for five years, previously working for the Tourism and Transport Forum heading up the aviation division. Prior to this, Jon was an advisor to a number of NSW members of State Parliament including; The Hon Barry O’Farrell and The Hon Victor Dominello MP. Jon is currently the NSW State Secretary of the Australian Airports Association, a member of the UNSW Academic Board and a member of the UNSW Academic Programs Committee. On finishing school Jon studied at UNSW and completed a Bachelor of Arts/Economics (Hons), and is currently completing a Masters of Business Administration at the Australian Graduate School of Management, UNSW. Jon has been an Officer of Cadets at Knox since 2006 and part of Knox Old Boys Rugby since 2013. Jon joins the OKGA committee this year.

37JUNE 2015

SENIOR KNOXONIANS AGM AND LUNCHEON

The Annual General Meeting, held in the Thistle Room on 11 March, was attended by approximately 60 members.

Outgoing President Ian MacPherson presented his report on a number of activities during the previous year including the two successful lunches held at the School and the Honouring Service in November. His message also covered thanks to the Headmaster, OKGA staff and the School Archivist for their support in making Senior Knoxonians events a success. Ian reflected on his long association with the School: first as a pupil, then teacher, OKGA member and finally President of the Senior Knoxonians; a lifetime of marvellous experiences.

Treasurer Richard Nuttall reported on income and expenditure for the year followed by details of membership presented by Edric Chaffer. The meeting formally adopted both reports.

Then followed a vote to approve the proposed

Committee listing for the forthcoming year. Except for President, all other committee positions remain unchanged.

Incoming President Ted Metcalf spoke briefly about plans for the forthcoming year including the Ladies Luncheon on 5 August and Honouring Service on 6 November. He encouraged members to keep these dates free to attend.

The meeting was followed by lunch in the Portrait Room.

Ted Metcalf welcomed members from far and wide to the lunch. This was followed by an update from the Headmaster on current activities at the School. In thanking him for his report, Ted reminded attendees of how useful it is to hear from John Weeks at these lunches. Senior Knoxonians are pleased that he makes the time to be present and

keep members informed of all the achievements, events, progress and plans taking place at the School.

The main speaker for the day was School Chaplain Rev Peter Robinson who is now in his third year at Knox. Peter spoke about his background as a farmer before going into Ministry and taking his degree as a mature age student. Then followed parish work in Tenterfield and Albion Park prior to appointment as senior Chaplain for the NSW Police Force at the Goulburn Academy. He contrasted this career time with his role now at Knox and drew parallels which he now applies to his ministry to boys at the School.

These twice yearly lunches are a great opportunity to visit the School and meet with fellows from similar years gone by. Edric Chaffer makes an effort to arrange groups from comparable years to sit together and members are encouraged to let him know if there are people with whom they would like to sit at future events.

EVENTS AND REUNIONS

SENIOr KNOxONIaNS

02

01 Michael Newcomb (OKG57) visited Knox for the first time in almost 60 years and is pictured with Warren Norris (OKG57, middle) and Mr Tony Gifford OAM (retired staff).

02 Mr Scott James, Deputy Headmaster, with Rev Dr Clayton, retired School Chaplain and Honorary Senior Knoxonian

03 Senior Knoxonians President, Ted Metcalf

04 Rev Robinson addresses the Senior Knoxonians

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38 THE THISTLE

HONOURING SERVICE

A most successful and moving Honouring Service was held on Friday 7 November 2014 at the William McIlrath War Memorial Chapel. For many years now, the OKGA has presented gifts to the Cadet Unit and the Pipes and Drums dedicated to the many Old Boys who have served in times of conflict.

Special guests were Major General Adrian Clunies-Ross AO MBE (Ret’d) (OKG50) and Mr David Buckwalter (OKG62).

Adrian presented the OKGA A. Clunies-Ross Officer’s Sword to CUO Alex van Veen (Support Company Commander) while David presented the OKGA D.M. Buckwalter Officer’s Sword to CUO Penny Charalambous (D Company Commander).

The OKGA J.K. Douglas Ceremonial Drum was presented to Drum L/Cpl Spencer Wagner (Y10) by Charles Wannan (OKG38) in memory of John Keith Douglas (OKG38). John was killed in action on 8 February 1945.

The OKGA I.C. Goy Ceremonial Drum was presented to Pipe Band RSM Lachlan Begg (Y11) by Ian MacPherson (OKG55) in memory of Ian Christopher Goy (OKG41). Ian served as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in the RAAF during WWII. He passed away in May 2013.

The OKGA P.H. Cary Officer’s Sword was presented to CUO Edward Fay (B Company Commander). Unfortunately Peter Hezlet Cary (OKG42) could not attend and make the presentation himself due to poor health. Mr Edric Chaffer (OKG50) presented on his behalf.

During the service, a wreath was laid at the Roll of Honour which lists all the Old Boys who have served in the Armed Forces. It was laid by the newly appointed SUO Rob Truskett and Rob Tulloch (OKG75, President of the OKGA). The Ode was beautifully delivered by CUO Lillian Wilhelm (2IC of the Cadet Unit).

BACK TO THE PREP

For some Old Boys it had been 50 years since they had been to the Prep School. They came from many places, including David Stark (OKG62) who flew to Sydney from Brisbane. It was the first time we have had ‘Back to the Prep’ and from the response, we will hold again next year.

It was a rare opportunity for Old Boys to visit the Prep School and see how much it has changed since they were last there. The Ewan House Year 6 Centre was opened up and all were amazed by how it has been converted to a state-of-the-art teaching facility whilst still maintaining its heritage décor.

Old Boys also had the opportunity to visit some of their old classrooms in the original Gillespie block

and find their names on the Captains’ honour boards. We had some multi-generation Knox families attending, as well as some enrolled families.

Our thanks to Mr Mark Hemphill, Head of Knox Preparatory School, for allowing the OKGA to host this event.

SINGAPORE GATHERING

On Tuesday 24 February, an inaugural dinner was held in Singapore combining the Old Knox Grammarians’ Association and PLC Ex Students Union. This was the first such gathering for each of these groups individually or combined and long overdue as was agreed by all on the night. There were 24 attendees across both schools, spanning leavers from 1972 through to 2003. The event was held at the historic Singapore Cricket Club which was established in 1852.

The evening commenced with drinks at the Stumps Bar overlooking Singapore’s original sporting ground; the Padang which this year will host Singapore’s 50th year of independence celebrations. Drinks concluded at sunset whilst watching the closing stages of a Cricket World Cup game, followed by a sit down dinner in the club’s formal dining room. Many long lost friendships were rekindled, new connections made and a fond discussion of everyone’s time at both schools and growing up in Sydney. Congratulations to Rob

EVENTS AND REUNIONS

EvENTS

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39JUNE 2015

Spring (OKG91) for helping host this wonderful gathering.

For information on future gatherings and connections, please email singapore@okga.org.au.

OKGA GOLF DAY

The sky was blue, the grass was green. It was perfect weather for the annual OKGA Golf day. There were Old Boys, staff, parents past and present, making a great day for the Knox Clan.

We were also able to welcome representatives from Barker, Waverley and Scots Old Boys’ Unions.

The prize for ‘Most Prizes on the Day’ would have to go to the Tagg family. Between Andrew Tagg (OKG67) and Gabrielle Tagg, and sons Nicholas (OKG00) and Julian (OKG02), they managed to take out Nearest to the Pin, Mother and Son Team, Father and Son Team, and Individual Stableford. The Taggs were also lucky enough to win the raffle!

It was also great to have Charles Wannan (OKG38) in attendance and holding his own and teaching the others a thing or two; he came away with the Bradman Prize.

EVENTS AND REUNIONS

01 Maj Gen Adrian Clunies-Ross AO MBE (Ret’d) with CUO Alex van Veen

02 Old Boys touring Ewan House

03 Singapore gathering

04 Winners are grinners - Gabrielle, Andrew, Nicholas and Julian Tagg

05 Charles Wannan on the 15th

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40 THE THISTLE

OLD BOYS’ PIPE BAND

WORDS BYAllan Watts (OKG77)

The Knox Old Boys’ Pipe Band has been busy over the last 12 months. The band has performed at:

•Novus Foundation (Wahroonga Rotary) fundraising dinner

•Epping Rangers end of year parade•Sunrise, Channel 7 for Glasgow Commonwealth

Games coverage•Wollombi Country Fair•Wahroonga Fair (combined with the School band)•Bundanoon highland gathering•Roseville RSL Anzac Sunday service•Redfern RSL Anzac Sunday service•Gulgong Anzac Day dawn service and street march•Wollombi Anzac Day service

Individuals have also played at Old Boys’ rugby matches, weddings, funerals and a variety of functions for Old Boys and others during the year.

It has been great to welcome half a dozen young members to the band over the last 12 months. We

currently have 22 core members and a dozen or so occasional members.

The band is always very happy to welcome new members. We aim to be a friendly place where you can keep up your piping or drumming. So if you have a set of pipes under the bed and have been meaning to give them a blast for a while – this is your opportunity. If you don’t have a set of pipes, we can lend you some.

Drummers, we especially need you. We are aiming to build up the drum corps this year.

We practice each Sunday afternoon from 5pm to 6.30pm at the School with the occasional social activity. Once a month we have a ‘big band practice’ that all members make a special effort to attend. For more details, contact pipeband@okga.org.au or visit www.knoxoldboyspipeband.org.au.

OLD KNOXONIANS’ CRICKET CLUB

Season 2014/15 was another great season for the Old Knoxonians’ Cricket Club. For the third year in a row, we progressed through the round robin stages of the Jack Pace Shield competition to the knock out rounds in the number 1 position after winning five from five. We came up against Reg Bartley XI in our quarter final and put in a strong performance

to win by five wickets. This meant that for the third consecutive semi-final we came up against Nondescripts Cricket Club and pleasingly the result was the same after we restricted them to just 70 and chased it down in 17 overs.

To claim the Jack Pace Shield, we had to overcome Barker Old Boys in the grand final. Unfortunately we lost by a very narrow margin in a rain affected

match for the second year in a row. It was a shame for the season to end the way it did. However, we can be extremely proud of our efforts on the day and throughout the entire season with a record of 12 wins from 14 matches.

Congratulations to Daniel Donaldson (OKG10) for taking out the Kelynack Cross Shield for player of the season. He was our only centurion this season and took two, five wicket hauls with the ball (including a hat trick).

We welcomed a number of new faces to the club and continue to build a very formidable playing roster. We are always looking for new talent, so please contact the club if you would like to get involved next season. The City and Suburban Cricket Competition continues to be the preeminent cricketing format for both the ‘casually serious’ and ‘seriously casual’ cricketer.

Finally, many thanks to the School and ground staff for making Gillespie Fields available to us, and to the OKGA for their continuing support of this great club.

aFFILIaTEd aSSOCIaTIONSNEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

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41JUNE 2015

SoUth CoaSt CommUNity awardEEin his first official visit to Nowra recently, his Excellency General the honourable david hurley aC dSC (ret’d), Governor of NSw, recognised 11 South Coast residents for their voluntary service to the community. at a ceremony hosted by the honourable Shelley hancock mP, ian macLaughlan (oKG83) was presented with a NSw State representative award for his commitment to the sport of dragon boating.

01 the oKCC celebrate the end of 2014/15 season

02 the old Boys’ Pipe Band at Brigadoon (Bundanoon)

03 old Boys squash players; andrew Butler, Nicholas Lillywhite and arjun Patel

News of old BoysNEwS aNd aNNoUNCEmENtS

KNox oLd BoyS’ SqUaShthe old Boys’ Knox Squash team has had a very successful time in establishing dominance in the Sydney North Pennant tournament that extends over a 15-week period of brutal toughness, strength and determination both physically and mentally. the current team includes: Captain arjun Patel (oKG10), Nicholas Lillywhite (oKG13), andrew Butler (oKG10), Jayden Beaini (oKG10), oliver Pearson (oKG11) and Gary Szeto (oKG07).

in late 2014, Knox entered the competition playing in division 14 and placed 3rd, making the semi-finals against Elanora Squash Club. it was a great achievement by the boys in their first season and this great result has now moved Knox to division 13 for the 2015 season that is currently underway. So far after six rounds, Knox is placed 3rd and the team has high hopes of making the finals once again and going one better.

with the support of the oKGa, the old Boys’ Knox Squash team will continue to grow and thrive in the Sydney North Pennant tournament with expected hopes of generating interest from the Knox community for former Knox students to participate in the competition.

oLd Boy wiNS JohN moNaSh SChoLarShiPat a gala function held recently at the Sydney opera house, Jack muir (oKG09) was announced as a recipient of the 2015 origin Foundation General Sir John monash Scholarship. Each year the scholarships are awarded to outstanding graduates from australian universities, who have

demonstrated leadership skills, and have a vision for a better australia. the Scholarship enables them to undertake masters or doctoral degrees at the world’s best universities, and bring home that knowledge. Jack is currently completing a Bachelor of Philosophy (Science) with honours at aNU Canberra and will be studying for a Phd in Engineering at the California institute of technology.

03

ian macLaughlan (oKG83) and his Excellency General the honourable david hurley aC dSC (ret’d), Governor of NSw

Jack muir is presented with the John monash Scholarship by Sean Barrett, head of the origin Foundation

42 THE THISTLE

BAY TO BRIDGE RIDEIn November 2014, Brett Goodsall (OKG99) rode his beloved bicycle ‘Izzy’ from The Bay in Glenelg, South Australia, to the Sydney Harbour Bridge to raise money for cancer research. The 2,400 kilometre solo journey along the coasts of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales came to a triumphant end as

BASKETBALL SCHOLAR – ATHLETE OF THE YEARSam Rowley (OKG09) won a scholarship to the University of Albany, USA, and has recently been named the America East Coast Men’s Basketball Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

Sam will graduate in May with a dual degree in mathematics and business administration. He has a 3.60 cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) to date and is a three-time America East All-Academic pick.

He was an America East All-Conference First Team and National Association of Basketball Coaches District I Second Team selection after ranking third in the league in rebounds (7.6 rebounds per game) and free throw percentage (.820). Sam was also fourth in scoring, averaging 13.9 points per game. Rowley led the Danes to their third consecutive National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) appearance as America East Tournament champions, as well as the conference regular season crown. An undersized forward, Rowley had nine double-doubles in 2014-15.

Rowley concluded his career ranking fifth all-time in career rebounds with 756. He leads the Division I UAlbany ranks in career total rebounds, career offensive rebounds, career defensive rebounds, single-season total rebounds, single-season offensive rebounds and single-season defensive rebounds.

In his four years in the Great Dane uniform, Rowley made three appearances in the NCAA Tournament. He became the eighth Division I Great Dane to reach 1,000 points on 28 January 2015 against Vermont. The senior is also a three-time America East All-Tournament selection.

This is the second-straight year a Great Dane has received the league scholar-athlete award.

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

MELBOURNE REBEL UNTIL 2017

Half-back Nic Stirzaker (OKG09) will remain a Melbourne Rebel until the end of 2017 after signing a new two-year deal with the Super Rugby club. The 23-year-old has been earmarked as a future skipper after captaining Melbourne Rising in the National Rugby Championships this year. Stirzaker has made 24 Super Rugby appearances since joining the Rebels in 2012 and is in a tussle with veteran Luke Burgess for the starting half-back role.

OKGA THISTLE MEDALAt its 2015 AGM, the OKGA was proud to honour Edric Chaffer (OKG50) and Tony Osman (OKG57) with the OKGA Thistle Medal for ‘Distinguished service to the OKGA and Knox.’

Brett crossed the finish line on 23 December 2014. Brett had a goal of raising $10,000 but exceeded it, raising $12,500.

The money goes towards vital cancer research undertaken at the Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, incorporating the LIVESTRONG Cancer Centre and ACRF Cancer Prevention Unit.

“We all know someone who has been affected by cancer in one of its many guises. When I was 16, I lost a friend to cancer and, more recently, my father was diagnosed. A wonderful team combined with brilliant evidence-based research saw Dad effectively enter into remission upon completion of his chemo-radiotherapy,” said Brett.

We are saddened to report that Brett’s father, Paul Goodsall (OKG68) lost his battle with cancer on 12 March 2015.

Rob Tulloch presents the Thistle Medal to Edric Chaffer

Photo courtesy of Rebels Media Unit

Brett Goodsall (OKG99) completing his ride from South Australia to Sydney

Tony Osman receives his Thistle Medal from Rob Tulloch

43JUNE 2015 43JUNE 2015

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

UK GAP STUDENTS VISIT NORTH COAST

In February, David Ross (OKG65) came to the rescue for UK GAP students Joe Crawley and Rob Dowell. Joe and Rob came to Australia last year as part of the School’s Gap Program. As well as their duties with the School, they also played with the Old Boys Rugby Club last season. On completion of their ‘Gap’ period, the students were hoping to find some work at the wineries so they could stay longer in Australia. When this hope was dashed, David invited Joe and Rob to his Walcha property, ‘Balnagowan’ to pick and pack organic vegetables.

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS 2015Adrian John Lipscomb OAM, OKG67 - For service to the community of Bellingen.

QUEENS BIRTHDAY HONOURS 2015Samuel Stuart Clark AM (OKG 73) - For significant service to the law, through senior roles with professional legal bodies, to strategic reform, and to the rural fire service.

Stephen Francis Higgs AM (OKG64) - For significant service to community health through leadership

3RD GENERATION AT KNOXFor many families, February marks the start of the new school year. For the Bryant family, it marked the third generation to start at Knox. A very proud John Bryant (OKG59) made the early morning journey to John Bryant Jnr’s (OKG91) to send off Dashiel (Y5) for his first day as a student at Knox.

roles with medical research organisations, particularly to juvenile diabetes.

Raymond Lindsay Donald OAM (OKG65) - For service to local government, and to the community of Nyngan.

Richard Reynolds Miles OAM (OKG39) - For service to the community, particularly through roles with education organisations.

BIRTHSAdelle Sienna Haddon, daughter of Sam Haddon (OKG98) and Kristyn Haddon – 3/11/2014

Poppy Anya Jonak, daughter of Bo Jonak (OKG98) and Anna Jonak – 24/1/2015

Rylee Angelinetta Melie Pritchett, daughter of Mike Pritchett (OKG98) and Danielle Pritchett – 14/4/2015

Sophia Nina Holman, daughter of Chris Holman (OKG91) and Emma Holman – 20/4/2015

Heidi Cussell, daughter of Tim Cussell (OKG00) and Freya Cussell – 6/5/2015

MARRIAGESJames Weddell (OKG99) and Stephanie Weddell – 17/10/2014

Tom Easton (OKG02) and Laura Jackson – 8/11/2014

Jeremy Farrell (OKG02) and Naomi Dodds – 15/11/2014

Simon Le Couteur (OKG91) and Kate O’Reilly – 14/12/2014

Richard Wykes (OKG00) and Cheryl Lee – 23/1/2015

Guy Newton (OKG01) and Laura Case – 7/2/2015

Edward Hunt (OKG01) and Maggie McFadyen – 7/2/2015

Tim Lloyd (OKG05) and Amy Cook – 8/2/2015

Andrew Ting (OKG97) and Michelle Lundberg – 18/4/2015

DEATHS

The OKGA extends its sincere sympathies to the families of the following Old Knox Grammarians who have passed away:

Andrew John Elton (OKG73) – 15/12/2013

Navzad Engineer (OKG13) – 24/11/2014

James Matthews Caradus (OKG37) – 28/11/2014

Michael Jackus (OKG64) – 8/12/2014

Peter Southam (OKG54) – 10/12/2014

John Dawson Walker (OKG41) – 10/12/2014

Richard Boehme (Dick) Adnam (OKG50) – 18/12/2014

Robert Morley McIntosh (OKG50) – 23/12/2014

Dr Douglas John Harbison AM (OKG45) – 28/12/2014

Sundip Patel (OKG80) – 28/12/2014

Ian Cranston Forster (OKG61) – 30/12/2014

David Hardwicke Holderness (OKG88) – 1/1/2015

John James Tuit OKG52 – 4/1/2015

Donald Frazer Sutherland (OKG60) – 11/1/2015

Christopher Alan Clarke (OKG62) – 4/2/2015

Robert Gregory Thompson (OKG60) – 7/2/2015

Betty Taylor (Retired Staff) – 17/2/2015

Charles Finlay ‘Finney’ Martin (OKG48) - 23/2/2015

John Kenneth Hudson (OKG40) – 4/3/2015

Ross Vincent Turnbull (OKG59) – 6/3/2015

Arnold Cornelis Offenberg (OKG57) – 8/3/2015

Paul Millington Goodsall (OKG68) – 12/3/2015

William Alexander (Alex) Park (OKG41) – 15/3/2015

Euan Robert Moffitt (OKG46) – 3/4/2015

Owen John Williams (OKG51) – 9/4/2015

Michael Kenneth Smithers (OKG60) – 10/4/2015

James ‘Jimmy’ Aiken (OKG53) – 11/4/2015

John MT Groenewegen (Retired Staff) – 8/5/2015

Knox Grammar School PO Box 5008Wahroonga NSW 2076AUSTRALIA

Telephone (02) 9487 0122 Fax (02) 9487 0186CRICOS Provider Code: 00399E www.knox.nsw.edu.au

did YOU KNOw? The Aspinall Prize for Rugby is one the oldest prizes at Knox. It was presented by Dr E Aspinall, the School’s doctor, to commemorate the memory of his brother WR Aspinall who was posthumously awarded the Military Cross for his actions at Lagnicourt, France, on 15 April 1917. The first recipient was RD Fisher (OKG27).