Somerset Lifetimes

Forty-Fifth Edition – June 2013

Somerset Lifetimes


Somerset Lifetimes

Information

Somerset Lifetimes is published twice a year by Somerset College to disseminate items of topical interest relating to the overall activities of College life and the greater Somerset community.

Editorial Committee: John Bacon, Wendy Bacon, Alethea Campbell, Virginia Lamb, Sue Roberts, Craig Sayer and Georgina Watson.

Contributing Writers: John Bacon, Natalie Bartley, Craig Bassingthwaighte, Aranza Blackburn, Emily Blauberg, Michael Brohier, Forrest Butcher, Alethea Campbell, Anne Copperwaite, Adrian Johnson, Meg Johnson, Margaret Kiddle, Bronwyn Lee, Andrea Lewis, Georgia Liussi, Shane Lunniss, Lachlan Morris, Luisa Navanteri, Rob Paterson, Penni Seignior, Carrie Smith, Elizabeth Thomas, Sarah Thomas, David Thornton, Brad Walker

Printing: Surfers Inkspot Printers, 65 Lawrence Drive, Nerang 4211

Somerset College, Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba, Queensland 4213 ACN 010 946 906Phone (07) 5559 7100 Fax (07) 5559 [email protected] www.somerset.qld.edu.au

One copy of Somerset Lifetimes is distributed to each household within the Somerset community. If you would like us to post you additional copies of Somerset Lifetimes, simply email your request to [email protected].

From the Headmaster Introducing the Business ManagerHead of Junior School AnnouncementPre-Prep Begins!Koala with AttitudeStudent Services HubSomerset Celebration of Literature – 20 Years OnSomerset Sporting SuccessesSomerset SpartansNew StaffRemember When – 1993 and 2003A Few Years Down the TrackIt’s a Small World!Alumni News

News From the PoolParents’ and Friends’ Association UpdateCultural OpportunitiesSomerset in the CommunityA Veivers Milestone!Volunteering at SomersetCelebrating Mother’s Day at SomersetANZAC Day CommemorationsJohn Franklin Memorial Fellowship 2013Fundraising for Ladakh2012 Prep Chess FundraiserYears 6 and 7 Musical – The Rockin’ Tale of Snow WhiteMilestones

Inside This Issue

There are many thousands of words contained in the pictures of this edition of Lifetimes. Even the title says it all, the Lifetimes of Somerset College.

Nothing communicates our mission more than the image from the front cover. Two of our Pre-Preps, Class of 2026 (!) no less, begin their journey at Somerset.

The exhilaration and sheer joy of the ride, the challenges to overcome, the friendships that will blossom, the five House colours, the Bird and the Tree, Deo Confidimus (In God We Trust) captured for a fleeting moment under the watchful eye of our Pre-Prep teachers, the legendary Mrs Anne Copperwaite and the recently appointed alumnus, Mrs Margaret Kiddle (Class of 1990).

Community, tradition, history, relationships, love and joy. We need to have this young fellow recreate this ride in 2026. Some things will have changed but some will remain constant.

We are deep in the process of another Strategic Plan, accepting the College Board’s challenge to be better tomorrow than we are today. It is a process I love as stakeholders gather to consider how we might provide even better outcomes for our students, the centre of our efforts.

The remaining facilities from the current Master Plan, a new Chapel and new Gymnasium, will be joined by other facilities to enrich the Somerset experience. I look forward to telling you what these are.

Look at the expression on Archer Harcourt’s face and you know that everything we should do, we must do.

Activating minds.

With every best wish

Craig Bassingthwaighte MA (Griffith), B Ed Studies (Qld), BA, Dip T, FACE, MACELHeadmaster

From the Headmaster

Somerset College congratulates the Class of 2012 on its outstanding results, leadership and service to the College. The Senior Class achieved a median OP of 6.

Overall Position Percentages State PercentagesOP 1 11% 3%OP 1 to 5 46% 20%OP 1 to 10 80% 49%OP 1 to 15 95% 79% Year 7 at Somerset CollegeFrom 2014, Year 7 will be the entry point into the Senior School at Somerset College. There will be limited places available for new students entering Year 8 in 2014. For more information contact the Admissions Office on 5559 7100, or [email protected].


Somerset Lifetimes

Mr David Thornton, MBA, BA (Hons) commenced as Business Manager on 3 December 2012. Mr Thornton has more than 20 years’ experience in the corporate sector in Australia and the United Kingdom. Mr Thornton and his wife have two children, with Liam enrolled to commence at Somerset in Pre-Prep next year. We are delighted to introduce you to David in the following article.

Introducing the Business Manager

I was just reading the last edition of Somerset Lifetimes to get a feel for the style and content of this first publication since I joined Somerset College; I devoured the collection of 30 year legacies from successful careers, to international sporting achievements and prominent contributions to our community. You will have to forgive my over-exuberance in highlighting those sensational achievements, which doesn’t just stem from being a proud new member of staff but from having just attended my first Pre-Prep introductory night for my eldest son starting 2014! The Headmaster kindly reminded the audience that this will be the Class of 2028! – and after admittedly a small swallow, I did regain my composure with a wave of excitement and wonder that this Somerset legacy is everything I want my children to grasp, live and learn.

About me… Well, I’m a very grateful ex-pom for Australia letting me in over 15 years ago and for marrying a Gold Coaster. We now have two true-blue Aussie kids and they are totally in their element; I still can’t believe the lifestyle they can enjoy right on their doorstep, which has to be one of the best in the world!

My formative professional career started in London as a Chartered Accountant dealing with a range of clients from Lloyds Insurance Syndicates, (some of whom were a bizarre combination of the world’s most well-known celebrities), through to banks, car manufacturers, universities and stock-broking firms. I felt fortunate to be raised in a military family from the perspective we lived more years outside the United Kingdom than in, and this certainly contributed to my inclination to look beyond England as a place to live.

The other great attraction for me was sport and ‘back then’ I raced competitively at triathlon, representing Great Britain at a number of World Championships. Since then, the pace has been somewhat more social and I have enjoyed trying new sports such as surf-skiing and other watery excursions! I may even have to get out my old dusty tennis racket now that I am in the vicinity of such great facilities here at Somerset!

My role of Business Manager involves a close working relationship with the Headmaster and College Leadership Team. Together, we have the great privilege to develop and strategise plans for the future of Somerset College and to ensure its distinctiveness and vision of ‘personal success and global outlook’ is sustained. I am delighted by the challenges this presents and by the empowering and supportive culture toward decision making that makes Somerset College a great community to work for.

David Thornton Business Manager

Above: David participating in the Guinness World Record Attempt at the 2013 Somerset Celebration of Literature

Head of Junior School Announcement

Head of Junior School Retirement

After 29 years of outstanding leadership and service to the College, including 16 as Head of Junior School, Mrs Virginia Lamb has indicated she will retire at the end of 2013. Mrs Lamb has led the Junior School and served our leadership teams with passion and diligence.

I am sure that you will join with me in wishing Virginia, her husband, John, and their son, Andrew (Class of 1997), all the best in Mrs Lamb’s well deserved retirement.

We will ensure that there are appropriate times for members of the College community to come together to celebrate Mrs Lamb’s wonderful contribution.

The College Board has accepted my recommendation that the current Year 3 Classrooms be named “The Virginia Lamb Building” in recognition of Virginia’s contribution.

New Head of Junior School Appointment

After a national and international search and applications, I am delighted to announce Mr Paul Taylor (Class of 1990), M Ed (Cross-Disciplinary), B Ed Studies, B Teach will commence as Head of Junior School on 1 January 2014.

Having graduated from Somerset College in 1990, Mr Taylor completed a Bachelor of Teaching and went on to teach at various schools in the United Kingdom before returning to Australia. He soon expanded his teaching to include school administrative duties gaining experience at All Saints Anglican School as Assistant to the Head of Junior School and Concordia International School, Shanghai, as Instructional Facilitator before his current role at The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James in Townsville as Head of Junior School.

Mr Taylor, his wife, Diane, and their children Ashlyn (Year 9, 2014) and Candice (Year 7, 2014) are excited about their move to Somerset. I’m sure you will join me in extending our congratulations on his appointment and welcoming them all to Somerset next year.

Craig Bassingthwaighte Headmaster

Curriculum Vitae for Paul Taylor

MEd, BEd Studies, BTeach

“In Paul’s administrative role he is highly efficient and very giving of his time. It is this initiative, coupled with his exceptional preparation and dedication that will ensure his continued success in his chosen career. I have no hesitation whatsoever recommending Paul Taylor to you as an outstanding teacher and administrator.”

Mr. Rod Case Head of Junior School, All Saints Anglican School (2003)

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House and land packages start from $474,400* Falling interest rates make it a great time to step up to the premium address

and exceptional lifestyle offered at The Observatory. And for a limited time,

Stockland is pleased to offer all Somerset College families $5000*off their

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Pre-Prep Begins!

29 January 2013 … excitement was in the air!

Our Pre-Preps arrived with their families to start their Somerset journey. Colourful and vibrant in their uniforms, some enthusiastic and keen to begin, others slightly hesitant with a tear or two. All the planning and behind the scenes organising was completed; our classrooms looked amazing after the renovations. If the walls could talk, they would have so many memories of each transformation over the years, from original classrooms to Pre-School to Art and Technology, and now to Pre-Prep!

The response to the introduction of Pre-Prep to our College was overwhelming. Staff and parents were incredibly supportive of this initiative and keen to assist in so many ways. Even before our school year began, we had assistance assembling furniture, covering books, organising resources and equipment.

The first semester is now over and children, staff and parents have settled into our routines. Our days are busy and active with child-initiated play, teacher-initiated learning engagements, chatting, stories, games, eating, cooking, dancing, singing, Mandarin, music, welcoming visitors, exploring Somerset, library and resting! We have invited parents to share special events and also spend time with our classes and meet all the Pre-Prep friends. Somerset staff members have responded to our invitation to read to small groups, and we have joined our peers for school events. You may have seen us on stage at the Easter Hat Parade … such confidence!

Our gardens are productive and plans are underway to extend our outdoor environment. Life at Pre-Prep, just like the children, continues to grow, change and evolve.

Anne Copperwaite Pre-Prep Director


Somerset Lifetimes

Koala with Attitude

The Somerset community banded together to support Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s Animals with Attitude Collection. The support received, both verbally and financially, has been overwhelming.

Between the students, the Alumni Association, the Parents’ and Friends’ Association and the Junior School Beachathon, sufficient funds were raised to purchase one of the koala sculptures from the collection – a wonderful achievement! The auction took place at a Gala Dinner on Saturday 4 May where our representatives proudly secured ownership for the College of Patrol Koala (pictured right at the Junior School Assembly).

Sparkling Teeth!Fresh Breath.Professional friendly team delivering quality dentistry for all ages.

*Teen Dental Vouchers accepted

Congratulations to all involved in this wonderful project, particularly Mrs Selena Muscat, Mrs Andrea Lewis and the team who accompanied them to the Gala evening and auction, Mrs Meg Johnson, Mr Phil Shapcott, Miss Alethea Campbell, Mr Aaron Ritchie and Mr David Thornton.

We look forward to updating you all with photos of Patrol Koala in his new habitat at Somerset College!

Craig BassingthwaighteHeadmaster

Student Services Hub

Senior School students will soon be able to make use of the newest building on the campus – the Student Services Hub to be completed by October of this year.

Replacing the old and much loved “Locker Block”, this new facility will provide a fresh and welcoming environment for students in Years 7 to 10 (from the beginning of 2014 Year 7 will be the entry point into the Senior School at Somerset College).

Having one building for all of our Years 7 to Year 10 students is seen as a positive outcome by the Heads of House. The building has been designed to ensure the Heads of House are accessible to the students to allow them to work closely with the students with meeting rooms, new state-of-the-art lockers and an amphitheatre for House meetings.

The Student Services Hub is designed to provide an environment in which students will feel comfortable and safe as well as providing security for their belongings.

Modern technology will ensure daily notices and other information is readily available for all students and staff.

Importantly, space is available for students to relax and enjoy the breaks at morning tea and lunch. Year 11 students now enjoy this luxury in what was previously the Year 12 Common Room and our Year 12 students now enjoy the amazing facilities in the Senior Learning Centre, the former library.

The Head of Senior School and the Heads of House are certainly looking forward to their new facility. As was the case during construction of the Dr Peter Brown Building, our students have been patient and accepting of a restricted environment but they will certainly appreciate the end result when they move into the Student Services Hub late this year.

John BaconDean of Admissions


Somerset Lifetimes

Somerset Celebration of Literature – 20 Years On

In 1993, a 12 member European Economic Community set up its vast free trade zone, Boris Yeltsin was elected the new leader of Russia and the World Wide Web was born. The other equally significant event was the birth of the Somerset Celebration of Literature, with the very first festival running from 24 to 27 March 1994.

It has been 20 years since that day and the festival is still celebrating. In that time we have brought 708 writers, artists and performers to the College grounds to enthral and entertain young people and adults alike.

Festival 201 3 was in all respects an outstanding event. We sold over 15,500 tickets and attracted 54 schools to the campus over the three days. In addition, adult sessions were a success with our community outreach programme to Mudgeeraba Market Shopping Centre and Robina Library attracting healthy numbers.

Without a doubt, the two signature events were The Prologue Party and the Literary Long Table dinner, both held in Towers Quad on Wednesday and Friday respectively. On the Wednesday evening, talented indigenous artist Lucas Proudfoot and puppeteer Asphyxia, held the audience captive as they performed. The evening ended with a session where the Headmaster Craig Bassingthwaighte interviewed three writers, Nick Earls, Lisa Forrest and Tiffiny Hall. It is important to acknowledge the contributions of the Somerset Marketing Committee, Wordsmiths, Musicians, Technical Crew, Street Performers, and Functions Committee who all contributed to the success of this night.

On the Friday at the Literary Dinner Nick Earls regaled over 300 people with stories of the early days of the festival and the progression of the Celebration of Literature over the years. Guests enjoyed the beautiful atmosphere as they ate a communal feast at long tables surrounding the Quad.

I also wish to acknowledge all our sponsors (past and present) who have contributed to the festival over the last 20 years; in particular, the 25 corporate sponsors of the 2013 festival which range from Somerset families through to publishing houses. Their support enabled us to host an event that places quality literature at the centre of things! I also acknowledge the financial assistance we have received this year from the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, as well as from the Regional Arts Development Fund and the Gold Coast City Council. This generous support has been invaluable in nurturing, sustaining and growing this event. In particular, I would like to thank our local Councillor, Glen Tozer, for his generous support for a new competition, the Division 9 Poetry Competition which gives an opportunity for young poets to submit work.

Somerset Celebration of Literature – 20 Years On

It is timely to acknowledge the contribution of those people who have given so much to this event. I refer to the founders, Gail Parr, Lorraine Pilgrim, Karen Berkman, Wendy O’Reagan and Graeme Gardiner; and to festival Programme Directors, Jean Yates, Paul Alcorn, Sue Bonifant and current Director, Karen Mackie. In addition, this festival would not be still thriving if not for the huge support of our volunteers numbering well into the thousands; men and women too numerous to mention, who have shouldered the responsibility of the numerous organising committees.

Three major sponsors, in particular stand out. They are parents, sponsors, Board members and friends of the festival. Bede Young has been a generous provider of transport over all these years. Tony Hickey, current Chair of the College Board, has been involved in the festival in various permutations over the years. In his generous sponsorship of the National Novella Competition along with Penguin Books over many years, Tony has left an indelible mark on improving literacy and encouraging young writers. Terry Herbert, Deputy Chair of the College Board, has given generously in so many ways over the years. He has sweated in the blazing hot sun setting up bookstalls, cajoled publishers to make contributions, sponsored schools to attend the festival and been a major contributor to keeping this event economically buoyant.

Finally, a public vote of thanks is due to two Headmasters, Barry Arnison and Craig Bassingthwaighte; one who had the vision to give this festival the green light and the other, our current Headmaster, Craig, who has encouraged the event at every opportunity and helped bring it to a sustainable place; so that we can look to the future with a sense of confidence.

The Somerset Celebration of Literature has changed over the years as it endeavours to keep itself solvent and relevant. Finally, although the festival owes its existence to the contributions of so many wonderful individuals, it is the sum of these parts that go to make up this new and unique event, which is bigger than all of us. I have no doubt that the festival will continue to thrive well into the future.

We enjoyed celebrating 20 years on in 2013 and may we continue to celebrate long after the present organising committee have moved on. Michael Brohier Deputy Headmaster and Chairperson of the Somerset Celebration of Literature


Somerset Lifetimes

Kirsty Williams – Athletics (pictured top left)Somerset has another national champion. Kirsty, Year 11 Franklin, took part in the All-Schools National Athletics Titles in Tasmania in December. She claimed first place in discus, third place in shot put and fourth in hammer.

She was then selected as one of only two under 18 girls to represent Australia at the Australian Youth Olympic Festival (AYOF ) in Sydney in Discus. She performed well coming second and also came fourth in shot.

Following this, Kirsty was selected in the National Under 17 Athletics Development Squad to attend a camp at The Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra in May for expert training and testing.

In March, at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships in Perth, Kirsty placed:First – Under 17 DiscusSecond – Under 18 Discus (only 1cm between first and second) Third – Under 20 Discus Third – Under 17 Hammer Fourth – Under 17 Shot Put

Isabel Wright-Smith – AthleticsIsabel, Year 11 Veivers, also took part in the All-Schools National Athletics Titles in December and placed seventh in the High Jump with a personal best of 1.65m.

Toby Wilson – Swimming Toby Wilson competed at the 2013 Australian Age Championships in Adelaide. His results in freestyle were:Second – 15 Years Boys 1500mFourth – 15 Years Boys 200mFourth – 15 Years Boys 400m

Mitchell Simmons – Surf Lifesaving (pictured left)Mitchell had a successful National Titles, earning Silver in the Surf Race, Gold in the Cameron Relay and Silver in the Surf Teams.

Bianca Crisp – Open Water Swimming (pictured bottom left)Bianca, Year 9 Starkey, took part in the National Open Water Swimming Championships. She swam well despite the choppy conditions and placed third in the girls 13 years 5km event, which featured over 50 competitors, in a time of 1 hour and 14.36 seconds.

Zachary Marks – Mountain BikingZach recently represented Queensland at the MTB Nationals in Canberra.

Vijay Randall – Snooker Vijay took part in the National Snooker Titles in Adelaide and in taking out the championship, he has qualified for the up-coming world titles in Europe.

Louis Baker and Brody Seignior – Baseball Brody and Louis both took part in the Baseball Under 17 National Titles in January in Geelong. Louis was selected for the National All-Star Team.

Somerset Sporting Successes

Somerset Spartans

Spartan EliteThe goal of this year’s Spartan Elite Programme is to improve the excellent standard set during last year. Former Olympian Mark Ladbrook, our Elite Performance Coach, offers a large range of sessions to choose from and the programme is closely aligned with seasonal sports throughout the year and geared more to individuals and small groups. The Spartan Elite Programme will continue to strive for personal excellence at all times in technique, training methods and attitude. Term 1 – General Preparation Phase (Introduction to Training – Movement Technique, Aerobic and Strength development focus)Term 2 – Specific Conditioning Phase (Sports Specific Conditioning in Strength, Power, Speed and Anaerobic Conditioning)Term 3 – Competition Phase (Specific Competition Preparation as required and Competition Season)Term 4 – Peaking and Recovery Phase (Elite Athlete Training for State and National Competitions of chosen sports)

Spartan Tough“We train in the wet, we play in the wet, we win in the wet”

As the APS Winter Season comes to an end in the Senior School, our 52 teams, with 55 coaches have completed many successful rounds versus opposition. At some practices, as the skies have opened up on Somerset, our students and coaches, not deterred by the weather, have shown how much fun can be had in the wet when it doesn’t include the kind of temperatures associated with rain down south.

New Sports FacilitiesWe have been very fortunate to gain some new facilities with the building of a 75 metre, four lane rubber athletics track and high jump, long jump and triple jump area. In addition, a new 200m2 sports shed will relieve the pressure on storing equipment in Koala House, which will be redesigned over the Christmas holidays to include upgraded change rooms and a kitchen/serving area.

Shane LunnissDirector of Sport


Somerset Lifetimes

Margaret Kiddle (Class of 1991) – Pre-Prep Teacher

Although new to working at Somerset College, my connection with the College is a long standing one. As a foundation student and then parent at the College, I have a good understanding and admiration of the journey that Somerset has taken. I feel very fortunate to be teaching in Pre-Prep in its foundation year at the College. It has been wonderful getting to know the students and their families and to nurture our smallest members of the Somerset community at the start of their journey.

Rob Paterson – Head of Department, Mathematics I started teaching when I was a graduate student at Griffith University, where I lectured and tutored first year students in Mathematics. I got to the stage where I was enjoying my teaching work more than the research I was engaged in, and so decided to study a Graduate Diploma in Education majoring in Physics. My first appointment was as the inaugural Physics teacher at Rivermount College and after a year at the College I was appointed Mathematics Co-ordinator. I then moved to Mackay and joined the staff at Whitsunday Anglican School as a specialist Mathematics teacher and after two years was appointed Head of Faculty – Mathematics. After servicing two further years I accepted an offer to become a full time tutor at a tutoring business in Mackay and then after five years returned to Whitsunday Anglican School as the Head of Mathematics from 2007 to 2012. My appointment as Head of Department – Mathematics at Somerset College has been a great experience. I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to work with such dedicated and motivated teachers and students and look forward to being a member of the Somerset community for many years to come.

New Staff

Luisa Navanteri – Senior School Teacher

Ever since moving to the Gold Coast from Melbourne five years ago, I have longed for the opportunity to teach at Somerset College. Being aware of the College’s fantastic reputation and wide range of opportunities for staff and students alike, I was ecstatic to be offered a position here. Another reason I was initially attracted to Somerset was the extensive LOTE programme offered, that is very unique to the Gold Coast. I have always had a passion for foreign languages, having studied German, Chinese and Italian at school and University. As a Masters’ student in History, I have also welcomed the opportunity to teach Humanities at the College. At Somerset I am surrounded by supportive, dedicated staff and I feel very fortunate to be teaching in a College that offers me so much scope professionally. I look forward to continuing my journey at Somerset and the many challenges that may lie ahead.

Aranza Blackburn – Junior School Learning Support Co-ordinator Born in Spain, I came to Australia as a child, lived and studied in both Australia and Spain, before finishing school and embarking on a career as a Foreign Exchange Dealer with NatWest Australia Bank in Sydney. I began teaching in my mid-20s in Western Sydney. After meeting and marrying a solider from Kingaroy, we moved to Queensland and I worked in country schools until relocating to Brisbane in 2008. I came to Somerset because I love to explore the concept of “student diversity” further, and Learning Support is a great place to do that from! We also have two children here at Somerset, Sara (Year 8) and Hayden (Year 3). I am currently finishing my doctoral thesis on Gifted and Talented English Language Learners, am a member of the Jane Austen Society of Australia and also a keen Trekkie. Last year I appeared on Millionaire Hotseat but didn’t win. This year I will be visiting Spain (the family), the United Kingdom and EuroDisney, and settling into life on the Gold Coast and at Somerset. My ambition is to one day become the Federal Minister for Education and to take a Star Trek Cruise (ocean, as space ones are not available yet!).

Somerset also welcomes the following staff who are new to the College

• Bianca Arace – Prep• Amarjit Bains – Teacher Assistant, Pre-Prep • Angelina Cheung – Junior School Mandarin• Debra Cole – Teacher Assistant, Pre-Prep• Allison Foster, returns from extended maternity leave – Head of Franklin House• Mark Grainger – Assistant Head of Chaplaincy Services• Paula Humphries – Year 1 Teacher• Stephanie Johnson – Administrative Assistant, Information Technologies• Helen Kane – Casual Hospitality Assistant• Mark Ladbrook – Sports Assistant• Leanne Murray – Teacher Assistant, Prep• Roger Neave – Grounds and Maintenance• Jade Preston – Senior English Teacher• Clare Walker, returns from extended maternity leave – Year 7 Teacher• Janine White – Year 5 Teacher• Chris Wylie – Head of Department, Science• Lynne Spanner – Pre-Prep Teacher one day per week• Leah Witham – Pre-Prep Teacher one day per week

New Staff


Somerset Lifetimes

This year, the Class of 1993 will be celebrating their Twenty Year Reunion on Saturday 12 October 2013. We remember back to the year of 1993.

Remember When | 1993

Remember When – 1993

• Paul Keating leads Labor to a record fifth consecutive victory at the 1993 election to continue as Australia’s Prime Minister, Bill Clinton starts his first year as president of the United States of America and Sir John Major continues as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

• Czechoslovakia separates into Czech Republic (Bohemia) and Slovakia• Bill Wyman, bass player, announces he will leave the Rolling Stones• Chicago Bull Michael Jordan scores his 20,000th career point• New York City World Trade Centre is bombed, killing six and injuring over 1,000• The World Wide Web is born at CERN• Virgin Radio broadcasts for the first time in the United Kingdom• On 1 July, one second is added to the clock• Mother Teresa is hospitalised with malaria• The International Olympic Committee selects Sydney, Australia to be the site of

the 2000 Summer Olympics• Shane Warne delivers what has been described as the “Ball of the Century” to

Mike Gatting, bowling the Englishman in his first Ashes appearance• Essendon defeat Carlton to win the 97th VFL/AFL premiership• Brisbane Broncos defeat the St George Dragons for the second consecutive year

to win the 86th NSWRL premiership• On 10 February Fred Hollows, ophthalmologist, dies aged 63 shortly after

founding the Fred Hollows Foundation• Several bombs explode in Bombay, India, killing 257 and injuring hundreds more• The population of Australia was 17,661,500 Popular Culture in 1993 Whitney Houston tops the charts in 1993 with I Will Always Love You, and Barbra Streisand performs her first live public concert in 20 years. Prince celebrates his birthday by changing his name to a symbol. Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time becomes the longest running book on the bestseller list of United Kingdom’s The Sunday Times ever.

1993 was a sad year in the film industry, with the passing of big names in Audrey Hepburn, River Phoenix and Vincent Price, and Brandon Lee is accidently killed on the set of The Crow. However Robin Williams’ cross-dressing Mrs Doubtfire and Robin Hood: Men in Tights bring smiles and laughter, while Jurassic Park keeps us on the edge of our seat. Popular television programme, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, debuts, leaving youth across the world glued to the fight of good versus evil and the cast of Cheers say goodbye after 11 seasons.

Andrea AhamerMichelle Craig (nee Gregory)Monika EckermannNicole FifieldTory HirstThomas LewinMicaela Midgley (nee Harrington)Caitlin PollockHamish RawleJonathan RogersDaniel StevensonVikki WadeWilliam WagnerStanley Yip

Class of 1993 – Twenty Year Reunion Date Claimer Calling all Alumni from the Class of 1993 – we look forward to welcoming you back to Somerset on Saturday 12 October 2013.

Class of 1993 – ‘Missing Persons’

We will be sending out reunion invitations in the near future, and need contact addresses and phone numbers for the following students. Can you help us find these classmates? If so, please email their details to [email protected].

Network with other past students at the new official Somerset Facebook page, which can be found at

www.facebook.com/somersetcollegeaustralia.

Remember When | 2003

This year, the Class of 2003 will be celebrating their Ten Year Reunion on Saturday 17 August 2013. We remember back to the year of 2003.

Remember When – 2003

• Australia’s Prime Minister is John Howard, George W. Bush is United States President and Tony Blair is the United Kingdom Prime Minister.

• The Space Shuttle Columbia takes off for mission STS-107 which would be its final one. Columbia disintegrated 16 days later on re-entry.

• The last successful contact is made with the spacecraft Pioneer 10, one of the most distant man-made objects.

• The United States Department of Homeland Security officially begins operation.• The Federal Republic of Yugoslavia is officially renamed to Serbia and

Montenegro and adopts a new constitution.• Invasion of Iraq by American and British led coalition begins without United

Nations support and in defiance of world opinion. Australia sends 2000 military personnel to the conflict.

• On 14 December American President George W. Bush announces the capture of Saddam Hussein.

• Record high temperatures are experienced across the world, with a heat wave in Paris seeing temperatures rise to 112°F (44° C), resulting in over 14,000 heat-related deaths. A severe heat wave across Pakistan and India reaches its peak, as temperatures exceed 50°C (122°F) in the region and the highest temperature ever in Kent, United Kingdom, 38.5°C (101.3°F), is recorded .

• A magnitude 8.0 earthquake strikes just offshore of Hokkaido, Japan• Seven people die in the Waterfall train disaster, after the driver experienced a

heart attack and lost control of the train.• Brisbane Lions defeat the Collingwood Magpies to win the 107th VFL/AFL

premiership. It is the third consecutive grand final win for Brisbane and the second consecutive year that they and Collingwood have met in the grand final.

• Australia hosts the 2003 Rugby World Cup. In the final at Telstra Stadium in Sydney, England defeats Australia 20 to 17 after a last-minute field goal from Jonny Wilkinson in extra time.

• Apple launches iTunes, which becomes a major success selling 10 million songs within four months of launch.

Popular Culture in 2003 On 19 September, Australian country music sensation, Slim Dusty, dies at the age of 76. Beyoncé and Jay-Z release Crazy in Love; the future single of the year signals the union of hip hop and R&B that will become the dominant sound of the decade. JK Rowling’s fifth Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is released, and the Da Vinci Code sensation is born as Dan Brown’s thriller is published.

In the film and television industry, we saw the completion of trilogies including The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Terminator 3 and The Matrix Revolutions (with The Matrix Reloaded released earlier in 2003 also). The first of the Pirates of the Caribbean series and Walt Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo, set in Australia, bring laughter to all ages, and Dory inspires us to learn how to speak whale.

Keep in Touch Keep in touch and update your details now as we begin preparations for the 2012 reunions – visit the Somerset Alumni Association website and register now. Go to www.somerset.qld.edu.au/college/community/Alumni.

You may also wish to network with other past students at the new official Somerset Facebook page, which can be found at www.facebook.com/somersetcollegeaustralia.

For further information on the Somerset Alumni Association and 2012 reunions, please contact Mrs Jane Kearney, Alumni Association Secretary on 07 5559 7327 or email [email protected]

Class of 2003 – Ten Year Reunion Date Claimer Calling all Alumni from the Class of 2003 – we look forward to welcoming you back to Somerset on Saturday 17 August 2013.

Class of 2003 – ‘Missing Persons’

We will be sending out reunion invitations in the near future, and need contact addresses and phone numbers for the following students. Can you help us find these classmates? If so, please email their details to [email protected].

Carla MackintoshHiroshi NikiMia Van Der MerweKristie ClarkeHarumi Kondo

ATTENTION ALL SOMERSET ALUMNI Keep in touch and update your details as we begin preparations for the 2013 reunions – visit the Somerset Alumni Association website and register now. Go to www.somerset.qld.edu.au/college/community/Alumni.

You may also wish to network with other past students at the Somerset Facebook page, which can be found at www.facebook.com/somersetcollegeaustralia.

For further information on the Somerset Alumni Association and 2013 reunions, please contact the Alumni Association Secretary by phone 07 5559 7327 or email [email protected].


Somerset Lifetimes

A Few Years Down the Track

Georgia Liussi – Class of 1993 and College Captain 1993

1. What subjects were you interested in at school?

I was really interested in Health and PE, Drama and Music. I also loved Maths and in hindsight probably should have done Maths/Science but the performer in me won that battle! I also loved Geography – this is probably where the “greenie” in me was born.

2. What activities were you involved in at school?

Almost everything! I remember Mr Richo asking me to do a job one day and then explained that he only ever asked the busiest people for help because they were more likely to get the job done. Most lunch times were spent at rehearsals for Musical, Show Choir, Vocal Group, House Plays, Dance Troupe or some kind of sports training. The thing about Somerset (then and now) is that it encourages students to be involved in such a broad range of activities. 3. What would you say you were known for at Somerset?

Hmm … I suppose I was very outgoing and involved in so many different activities Somerset had to offer. 4. Did you know what you wanted to do after school? If so, what was it?

I thought I wanted to be a journalist or work behind the scenes in film and television. I did a lot of work experience with film crews and part of me still wishes that I had pursued this further. I suppose I always knew deep down that teaching was in my veins – maybe it is my naturally bossy nature! 5. What are some of the things you have done since leaving Somerset?

More than I could have possibly imagined…

After graduating from Somerset I lived in Sydney for a number of years and that is where I studied a Bachelor of Primary Education, specialising in Health and Physical Education. During this time, I met up with Luca Liussi (Class of 1992) and thanks to many mutual friends, a long distance relationship bloomed. Luca went to Italy to play rugby while I was studying in Sydney.

After I graduated, we worked in London for six months before I landed a job at an international school in Rome. This was such an amazing time in our lives. Living in a city like Rome is unforgettable – I recommend it to anyone. Learning to speak Italian was a slow process because I spoke English with Luca at home and English with students and colleagues at work. I learnt to speak Italian while cheering on the Italian rugby team – a far cry from the Italian nursery rhymes I sing daily now.

After Rome, I worked at a number of European international schools in Treviso, Milan and Luxembourg as a classroom teacher and a PE teacher. Teaching has given me so many opportunities that I could never have foreseen. I have travelled the world, made life-long friends from all corners of the globe and learnt a second language, all while gaining experience in a profession that I love.

Luca and I were married in 2004 on the Gold Coast. Our first daughter Allegra, was born near Milan in 2005 and not long after that we decided to return to the Gold Coast to be closer to our families. I was so happy to hear that Somerset had become an International Baccalaureate School and was excited to continue working with the Primary Years Programme. Everything seemed to have come full circle. I returned to Somerset as “Signora Liussi”, the Junior School Italian teacher in 2006. Coincidentally, this role was first held by my mother-in-law Luisa Liussi in the early years of Somerset.

6. What do you plan for the future?

Luca and I have two beautiful daughters, Allegra (7 years old) and Olimpia (5 years old), and we are expecting another baby girl this July. We are very lucky to be surrounded by family and friends here on the Gold Coast. As much as we miss travelling, we love living back on the Gold Coast. It is the perfect place for our children to grow up with a healthy and active lifestyle. It is also great to have reconnected with so many of our Somerset friends who all have had their own adventures away from the Gold Coast and have returned to bring up their own families. We often get together and reminisce about the old school days. It’s just so hard to believe that 20 years have gone by – our friends all look the same as they did at school! I hope the next 20 years are filled with as many unexpected and amazing experiences as the last 20 and that we are still able to sit around with old friends reminiscing about the old school days (that’s if we remember them by then)!

Above: Luca, Allegra, Georgia, Natalie Berg (Class of 1993 and Georgia’s best friend from school) and Olimpia

It’s a Small World!

The saying ‘it’s a small world’ has never been more true for me than it was in December 2012, when half way around the world, in a country experiencing significant civil unrest, my mum and I met another Somerset family – the Heiner family. For 10 days, Mark (Class of 2007), Julia (Class of 2009), Stephen (Class of 2010), along with their parents Peter and Debbie, shared with us a 10 day cruise of Egypt’s Nile River, and I was reminded of how truly global the Somerset community is. It was around September of last year when my mum made a seemingly spur of the moment decision to book a 10 day tour of Egypt that coming December and invited me to come along. I was initially a little reluctant to accept her offer given her reasons for going revolved around the “incredibly cheap two-for-one offer” due to “some rumours of political unrest” that I “needn’t worry myself over”. Once the alarm bells stopped ringing, I jumped at the offer. A country with a fascinating past and turbulent present, I was excited at the prospect of experiencing first-hand some of the most famous wonders of the ancient world. We arrived in Egypt on the day of the controversial Egyptian referendum, just days after Australian newspapers were filled with images of violent clashes and reports of an impending civil war. I remember exiting the airport apprehensively, half expecting to hear gunfire and explosions. It was as I walked out of the airport and was greeted by our tour guide that I realised the situation really wasn’t as bad as the Australian media had suggested.

We began our cruise of the Nile in Luxor and it was here that we were first introduced to the Heiner family and our small tour group was formed. It’s always exciting to meet fellow Australians when touring foreign countries and we were soon chatting about where we were from and how we had ended up in Egypt. It didn’t take long for us to work out that we were all connected to Somerset, and perhaps even more unbelievably, that Mark, Julia, Stephen and I were all Veivers Alumni. I was further stunned to discover that Stephen had been in my cousin Sophie’s year level. Over the next week and a half, we formed a close group – sharing dinners, shopping expeditions, close encounters with pushy market sellers, drinks on the deck of our cruise ship and participating in an Egyptian costume party. We talked fondly about our experiences at Somerset, the teachers, families and students we all knew and the opportunities we were provided with upon graduating from the College. Time flew by and before we knew it, our cruise was over. As we were staying at the same hotel in Cairo and were, coincidentally, on the same flight back to Australia, we shared one last dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel before departing Egypt the following morning. This trip to Egypt was one of the greatest experiences of my life thanks not only to the incredible sights I saw, but also the wonderful family we met. Experiencing Egypt with the Heiner family was truly a highlight of the trip and certainly made it one to remember. Back in Australia, it didn’t take long for us to cross paths again and it was at the BBQ celebrating Brad Walker’s 10 years as Head of Veivers House that I once again caught up with Mark and Julia. I am sure that this won’t be the last time I see them – especially since we will be living in the same neighbourhood come June! The Somerset connection is certainly global and I feel very fortunate to have attended a school that encourages such a great sense of community – one that Alumni experience long after their days as students of the College.

Bronwyn LeeClass of 2004


Somerset Lifetimes

Bond University Recognises Sporting Stars On 25 October 2012, Bond University honoured its sporting elite at the Annual Blues Awards night. Alumnus Alex Beck (Class of 2009) was named Sportsman of the Year, after placing second at the 2012 National Championships in the 400m. In April this year, Alex became the Open Men’s National 400m Sprint Champion, with a time of 46.18 and is now off to Moscow for the World Championships! We wish Alex all the best, and look forward to following his success in August, and over what we are sure will be years to come.

Alumnus Mathew Stubbs (Class of 2010) was also honoured at the Annual Blues Award night, with a Half-Blues award for Rugby Union 7s. This award is given to those athletes who have attained strong results at a national or regional level. Mathew was selected in a tournament side named as the best Australian university players in the 2012 University Games. Congratulations, Mathew!

Alumni News

Colin Finke – winner of KPMG Business Case Competition

In February 2013, Colin Finke (Class of 2008) was part of a team of four university students from The University of Queensland School of Business who won the state award for the KPMG Business Case Competition. The competition, organised by KPMG Australia, invited teams of university students from all over the country to compete on a real-life business problem and present their solutions to a panel of local business leaders. Competitors were judged on their ability to think critically under pressure to come up with innovative solutions, and Colin’s team impressed the judges with their recommendations for how a travel media group could develop strategic growth opportunities. Congratulations to Colin and his team mates!

Rachael Brock Receives Prestigious Scholarship Rachael Brock (Class of 2012) has been awarded a scholarship to Emmanuel College with The University of Queensland (UQ) campus after earning a UQ Excellence scholarship. Rachael is currently studying in UQ’s MBBS Provisional Entry programme, for entry into Medicine and hopes to be able to work abroad with the “Doctors Without Borders” programme.

Rachael joins Matthew Roughan (Class of 2011) and Brendan Baker (Class of 2010), who were both awarded scholarships last year, as an Emmanuel resident. These scholarships are awarded to academically high-achieving students who can also demonstrate outstanding extra-curricular academic, leadership or significant community service achievements. Congratulations, Rachael!

Samuel Rankin in the Moto2 Spanish Championship Samuel Rankin (Class of 2011) has this year made the transition from the Moto3 category to the Moto2 category after participating in the CEV Buckler Spanish Championship in 2012 as part of the H43 Team Nobby Talasur team. Samuel will continue with the H43 Team Nobby Talasur team as he moves into the Moto2 category, and had been working on his physical training programme to prepare for the extra weight with the Moto2 bikes in preparation for the Moto2 Spanish Championship which began at the end of April. We wish Samuel all the best with the nine rounds that make up the Championship, and with his future racing.

Alumni News

Kinder Family Update

Jessica Kinder (Class of 2009) recently graduated Griffith University with First Class Honours, Bachelor of Biomedicine. Jessica’s brother, Stephen (Class of 2006) graduated in the same ceremony and has started at Logan Hospital as an intern.

Jessica has now moved on to study Medicine at the University of Notre Dame in Sydney, while her younger sister Danielle continues her Psychology studies. Congratulations to Jessica and Stephen, and we wish Jessica and Danielle all the best with their future studies.

First Somerset Rower to Make an Australian Team! On Friday 26 April, Henry Leef (Class of 2011) became the first Somerset rower to make an Australian Rowing team at the Australian Team Selection Trials in Penrith. Henry will be rowing in the Coxless Four at the World Rowing Junior Championships on 7 August to 11 August in Trakai, Lithuania. After winning the Under 17 Single Scull in 2011, and following major surgery, Henry teamed up with fellow Gold Coaster Curtis Mcleod to take out the Under 19 Men’s Coxless Pair in March 2013. Early in March the College’s new Single Scull was named in honour of Henry and his achievements. Congratulations Henry, and we wish you all the best at the Championships in August!

Somerset Alumni are a Radio Lollipop Smash Hit Jaime Siu and Adam Rodwell (both Class of 2010) are currently involved in the international non-profit charity organisation, Radio Lollipop – a volunteer based organisation which provides entertainment for hospitalised children. Based at the Gold Coast’s branch, Adam is working as the Fundraising Co-ordinator while Jaime is working as the Press and Public Relations Officer for the Gold Coast.

Adam spontaneously joined the organisation when he intended to meet a friend at the orientation day, but conversations with other members and the content of the orientation appealed to him and an unexpected decision became quite rewarding. Jaime writes:

“I joined Radio Lollipop because I was looking for a worthwhile cause that allowed me to give back to the community, as well as utilise my strengths as a journalism student. Luckily, Adam was already part of this wonderful organisation, so this really opened up the doors for me. I have also always been a very energetic and enthusiastic person, so I thought working with children was perfect!”

The main objective of the organisation is to ensure every child leaves with a smile, and volunteers dedicate at least two hours a week to engage in interactive play with the children. Each child also has the opportunity to request their favourite songs, win prizes and hear their own voices on the radio. To learn more about Radio Lollipop, and how you can get involved, visit their website at www.radiolollipop.org


Somerset Lifetimes

Somerset Swimming is building a solid foundation for the future and is beginning to see strong results not only in the Club Swimming arena but also with the School Swimming system. For example, this year the Junior School placed third overall at the APS swimming meet which was a vast improvement from previous years and a fantastic result for our young swimmers.

The Somerset Swim Club had some very impressive results this year not only at the State Swimming Titles, but at the National Championships across both Pool and Open Water swimming. At the National Open Water Championships in February this year, Bianca Crisp placed third in the 5km race for 13 year olds. This was a breakthrough for Bianca and great reward for all the hard training and mileage in our pool. Mitchell Simmons placed fourth in the boys 14 years 5km race. Well done swimmers.

In addition to this, at the National Age Titles in April, the Somerset Swim Club had nine swimmers attend the Championships in Adelaide including Isabella Aparo, Toby Wilson, and Bianca Crisp. Somerset College was also represented by Mitchell Simmons (Miami Swim Club) and Ben Cowling (Southport Swim Club). Toby swam a magnificent 1500m race to place second in Australia in the boys 14 years event. Well done to all these swimmers.

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The Elite Squad Programme, coached by Graeme McDonald, has been greatly assisted in rising to the top through frequent visits from Chinese International swimmers. These swimmers have won medals at the recent London Olympics and have inspired our swimmers to new heights. These swimmers will be visiting throughout 2013 and I welcome visitors and spectators to see these superb athletes train alongside our up-and-coming champions.

Happy Swimming!

Forrest ButcherHead Coach – Swimming

Parents’ and Friends’ Association Update

The Parents’ and Friends’ Welcome Function on Friday 8 February was a truly wonderful event. Record numbers enjoyed the balmy evening and Sam and crew’s great food served by our own students, while the new Brown Building completed the Quad’s stunning look.

We cooked up a storm for the Senior Swimming Carnival later in February… burgers, sausages and chips and chips and chips!

The Parents’ and Friends’ Committee voted to help in the successful purchase of Patrol Koala, with all proceeds going to the Currumbin Wildflife Sanctuary – a most worthy cause. Now where will he be placed?

The Mother’s Day High Tea at Vedere on the 21st Floor of RACV Royal Pines was a memorable day. 80 Mums enjoyed yummy food, a glass of Moët, tea and coffee, a fashion parade, spectacular views and some lucky ladies won amazing raffle and lucky plate prizes.

Please note that our Food and Wine Night has been changed to 9 August instead of 1 June. We look forward to a big turnout for what is always a fun-filled night in The Great Hall.

Thanks to all committee members and the lovely ladies in the Events Office for all your hard work.

Penni SeigniorPresident, Parents’ and Friends’ Association

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Somerset Lifetimes

Cultural Opportunities

Somerset Show Choir supports Loaves and Fishes Luncheon

On Tuesday 30 April, the Somerset Show Choir (directed by Mrs Sue Roberts) travelled to Brisbane to perform at the annual “Loaves and Fishes Luncheon”. This event is held every year in St John’s Cathedral in the heart of Brisbane.

The event began when the church was being restored to raise funds, but it still continues to this day and now raises funds for various charitable concerns. Proceeds from this year’s Luncheon went to BUSHkids, the Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme, a charity assisting children and their families experiencing developmental difficulties or behavioural/emotional concerns in regional communities of Queensland.

As was the tradition, the cathedral was filled to the brim and fish and chips were served. The Somerset Show Choir performed a number of songs at the event and then took part in the lunch. The choir sang superbly and the acoustics in the cathedral were fantastic. Mrs Roberts led the choir and all put in a great effort to have the choir sounding at their best for the attendees at the lunch. The day was a success and the members of the Show Choir wore their green and blue blazers with pride.

Lachlan MorrisPerforming Arts Captain

The Somerset Dance Programme

Dance is an expressive human movement, which forms an integral part of human life and culture. Somerset is very fortunate to have a fantastic Dance Programme. Tuition in Dance is offered to all students from Pre-Prep to Year 12 and the styles offered include classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary and funk. Tuition occurs mainly out of school hours either in the Koala House, The Ray Building or the Performing Arts Centre.

The ballet students are able to nominate to complete RAD classical ballet examinations and spend most of the year working towards it. The jazz students, although not completing examinations, perform at various College events and in the wider community, often at local aged care facilities throughout the year. All dancers perform in the annual Day of Dance, held early in Term Four, which showcases their hard work and efforts from the year.

Many students commence their lessons in Prep and follow it through to their Senior years. A quote from one such student outlines the programme. “I have a passion for dancing and the Dance Programme at Somerset has allowed me to learn different styles and techniques of dance while making new friends.”

Be sure to keep an eye out at the next Junior School Showcase or Cultural Collage for performances by Somerset’s dancers.

Emily BlaubergPerforming Arts Captain


Somerset Lifetimes

Senior School students have been enjoying their involvement in two service projects – Mudgee Kids and Clover Connect

Mudgee Kids

As part of their Life Skills Programme, our students were partnered with students from Mudgeeraba Special School to engage in some ‘grass roots’ service learning. Our connection with Mudgeeraba Special School began last year and has continued in 2013 with over 80 of our Year 11 students volunteering! The ‘head, hands and heart’ approach aimed to connect the head and the heart through the experience of walking with young people who, simply through life’s chance, have not been granted the privileged life that some of us enjoy. This programme provides support to children from the ages of 5 to 18, all with mild to severe disabilities. Within this setting, our students have proven themselves to be both resilient and naturally compassionate.

In Roman Krznaric’s notion, empathy “…needs to make a difference. It has to inspire moral action of some form.” In other words, we need to go beyond words and thoughts and actually do something. Our Year 11 volunteers proudly do this in bucket loads when they give up their Wednesday lunch times for six weeks. Our activity draws on core components of service learning by being purposeful and inclusive.

I would hope, by the time a Somerset student enters Year 12, they will have had their empathy deepened, their compassion tested and their understanding of what is needed to create a just, inclusive, sustainable and diverse community broadened and challenged.

“I went to the Mudgeeraba Special School with an open mind, and came back feeling privileged to have met these two young girls, acknowledging that I have a duty; I want to be happy, but in order to be so, I first have to make others happy.” – Year 11 Veivers Student

“While compassion is primarily the virtue of empathy for the suffering of others, it is also regarded as a fundamental part of human love. The humanity shown with our students from Mudgeeraba Special School is one that certainly reflects each of our abilities to show compassion.” – Year 11 Andrews Student

“This opportunity has convinced me that in the future I want to live a life helping others. It is not always easy, but there is nothing more rewarding.” – Year 11 Laver Student

“What wonderful experiences I had engaging with these vibrant and enthusiastic students. With an open mind, I was able to enjoy the company of these diverse individuals.” – Year 11 Andrews Student

Brad WalkerVeivers Head of House

Somerset in the Community

Somerset in the Community

Clover Connect

Since Term Four 2012, our Year 9 and 10 students have supported two programmes at Clover Hill State School. On Wednesday mornings, the Ready Reader Programme sees our students sitting with their Year 4s to support them with their reading. In particular, our students promote reading for meaning by discussing the intent of passages and use of new words. On Friday mornings, students engaged with the Active Start Programme, which consisted of a circuit exercise class and other games.

We have been so impressed with the way in which our students have worked with these younger people. Modelling everything which is great about reading has been of particular importance – especially for the boys. As we have walked back across Clover Hill Drive to the College it has been lovely to listen to the bubbly conversations of our students. Peer to peer instruction really does have benefits for all concerned. What a great way to start the day!

Adrian JohnsonHead of Senior School

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Somerset Lifetimes

A Veivers Milestone!

Congratulations to Mr Brad Walker – Celebrating 10 years as Head of Veivers House!

When Clare Walker (nee Tomkins) contacted me earlier this year to invite me to a surprise barbecue in honour of Brad Walker’s 10 years as Head of Veivers House, my first thought was “has it been that long since I was in year 12!?” Frank Vorster and I had the honour of being the first Veivers House Captains to work with Brad Walker in 2004 and I still look back on this year and our achievements with fond memories. We certainly had a successful year, named Champion House for both the House Plays and the Inter-House Cross Country. Having had Mr Walker as a teacher in my junior years of Senior School, I remember being excited at the prospect of working with him as our new Head of House. Abandoning old loyalties to Starkey House, Brad leapt into his role as leader of Veivers with passion and enthusiasm, reigniting fervent House spirit.

It is with great fondness and respect that I look back on my final year of school and the leadership and support I received from Brad as our Head of House. I was inspired by his positive attitude and tireless efforts to ensure that Veivers students represented their House with pride and achieved their full potential. It is only since becoming a teacher myself that I truly appreciate the effort and commitment the Head of House position requires and Brad’s dedication to this position, and the students of Veivers, over the past 10 years is truly admirable. The number of Veivers Alumni that attended the barbecue is a testament to the positive influence Brad has had on the students of Veivers, both past and present, and the impact he will continue to have on students in the future. Congratulations, Mr Walker, on this achieving this milestone in your career! Bronwyn LeeClass of 2004

Veivers House wins first place – its Head of House holding the longest period in office. Congratulations, Mr Walker!

For seven years, we have known Mr Walker, and to be perfectly honest nothing much has changed. He still greets us with the same warm smile in the morning at the locker rooms (RIP), and he still shows off his competitive edge when it comes to carnivals, still planning ahead for Veivers’ next chance to take out the coveted title.

Besides achieving this milestone, what strikes us most about Mr Walker is his steadfastness, systematic approach to anything, and dedication to achieving perfection. The pride he places in his work and his students, and the enthusiasm with which he embarks on any project, rubs off on the people around him.

Anyone can have ideas, but it is only a few, like Mr Walker who execute them. The milkshake stall dedicated to ex-Veivers student Bryce Lindores, is still a great success nine years later, having survived the test of time.

But Mr Walker’s agenda goes beyond his call of duty as Head of House. He seeks opportunities to help others, whether it is staying behind late to talk to a troubled student or finding rotten sandwiches in a locker growing a “fascinating” range of bacteria and fungi (who can forget biology in Mr Walker’s tribute) or spending a lunch time with children with special needs.

Congratulations on this achievement, and best wishes for the many challenges and successes that lie ahead!

Sarah Thomas (Class of 2011) and Elizabeth Thomas (Year 12 Veivers)

Below: Brad Walker with Veivers Alumni and past staff

As the Co-ordinator of Events at Somerset College, I find the support we receive from our parents and friends as volunteers is truly inspirational. For the Somerset Celebration of Literature we have up to 150 volunteers working tirelessly for the three days of the festival, with many assisting in the lead up for weeks on end. Our youngest and newest volunteer is Magnus Anthony, due to start Prep in 2014, who comes along with mum Angeline every Wednesday morning for an hour or so. From Magnus to the many mums and dads who offer so much more, we are extremely grateful.

We have Alumni, past parents, current parents and future parents who all contribute in some way. To the many volunteers that are not seen around the College, we acknowledge you. I pay particular reverence to the parents who volunteer their time very early in the morning for the Rowing or Swim Clubs; or the sewing crew who spend days on end in the hub of the Performing Arts Theatre preparing costumes for musicals. I make particular mention of Andrew Gardiner who assisted in building the set for the Junior Musical, and Kevin Filer who has been an active member of the Rowing Committee.

Whether volunteering at the Somerset Celebration of Literature, the Somerset Festival for Young Performers, or any of the various other volunteering opportunities, we extend our gratitude to you.

“We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give” – Winston Churchill This year, we pay tribute to a group of Somerset Celebration of Literature volunteers who have been a constant force within the College for many years, being members of the Parents’ and Friends’ Association, the Foundation, the College Board and Class Co-ordinators. Their never-ending support of the College has assisted in the ethos that now stands within the community of Somerset. Annette Bartels, Fiona Cary, Louise Davidson, Terry Herbert and Bede Young, I commend you for your contributions as volunteers and look forward to seeing you around the College in future years as past parents and also as you remain involved in various other Somerset committees.

Andrea LewisCo-ordinator – Events

Volunteering at Somerset

Above: Volunteers at the Somerset Celebration of Literature; Kevin Filer and family with the boat named after him; Annette Bartels, Fiona Cary and Louise Davidson


Somerset Lifetimes

Celebrating Mother’s Day at Somerset

ANZAC Day Commemorations

Junior School students participated in a very moving service to acknowledge ANZAC Day and its significance in our lives today. Captain Catherine Rose and Mr David Grant from the Mudgeeraba RSL were our invited guests this year. Captain Rose spoke of the need for our young people to carry on the legacy of the ANZAC spirit and to participate, every year, in marches and ceremonies in order to keep the ANZAC story alive.

The Junior School House Captains led a lovely service to enable the student body to sit and reflect on the spirit of ANZAC and its significance today. Olivia Hammond and Marc Eksteen placed a wreath, from both our College and the RSL, beside the Lone Pine tree in Towers Quad, while the student body watched a very moving segment, titled Lest We Forget.

During our service a special presentation was made to Year 6 student Darcy O’Hara. Captain Rose presented a certificate and medal to Darcy for “perseverence on the home front” from his father, Lieutenant Commander Paul O’Hara, who was deployed to Afghanistan in October last year.

The inclusion of the New Zealand anthem in the service this year was a lovely addition and this was followed by Advance Australia Fair which was sung with such pride. Mr Josh Stafford played The Last Post and Reveille so beautifully. Philippa Gardiner (Year 11) did a wonderful job of this task in the Senior School ceremony.

Junior School students also participated in the ANZAC Day March in Mudgeeraba. Each year the attendance increases, as does the wearing of family war medals. These were worn proudly on the right side of the chest. The students looked immaculate and felt very proud to carry on the legacy as they walked to the Cenotaph. We were very impressed with attendance of two Year 2 students, Sally Osbourne and Ruby Jay. They felt very special to be a part of this parade.

Carrie Smith (Year 7S Teacher ) and Year 7 House Captains

John Franklin Memorial Fellowship 2013

Navdeep Pasricha and Holly Halford-Smith were awarded the 2013 John Franklin Memorial Fellowship at the ANZAC Day remembrance ceremony in Mudgeeraba (pictured right with John Foley, RSL Schools Liaison Officer). There were a large number of applications this year and, according to the organisers, the applications of these two students stood out.

In addition to a plaque and medal, the Fellowship includes a cash prize. In his acceptance speech, Navdeep said that he would be using part of the funds to establish an official branch of the United Nations Youth in Mudgeeraba. Holly will be using part of her award to continue her support of a project in Tanzania.

Adrian JohnsonHead of Senior School


Somerset Lifetimes

Fundraising for Ladakh

There is no arguing – the people of Ladakh are resilient. We have now held two Somerset excursions to this remote Himalayan part of the world, and a lasting memory is of the smiling Ladakhi faces – despite their extreme climate, minimal possessions and basic lifestyle.

And now, with much excitement, we have the opportunity to visit Ladakh again in September 2013. Some dedicated families are bringing out the hiking boots and poles in preparation for an experience of a lifetime.

At the time of writing, the Somerset community is also preparing for a significant event on the Somerset calendar – Resilience: a personal development event to inspire resilience through adversity. On Friday 14 June, The Great Hall will be abuzz with motivational speakers, audience interaction and the opportunity to purchase genuine Tibetan handicrafts. Our students will come away so much the wiser in understanding not only the Ladakhi resilience, but their own aspirations towards resilience and a healthy self-esteem. And, of course, we will hopefully raise a healthy sum of money to take to remote Ladakhi communities so that they may improve their educational opportunities.

What might the Somerset community do to help? Make a donation! We take the money directly to the recipients where educators and senior villagers decide the best way to allocate the funds. You will know that every cent is used wisely. If you wish to help in any way, please make contact with me via email at [email protected].

Meg JohnsonJunior School Teacher Librarian

30 Years of Enhancing Education

Senior School Inaugural United States of America Trip

During the September school holidays, a group of 21 students and three supervisors jetted off to the United States of America (USA) on an Economics, Legal and Business Studies trip.

We first headed to New York, which was a wonderful experience for us all. Here we visited places such as Wall Street, the Federal Reserve and the United Nations, along with many other classic tourist attractions. This trip was a learning experience for us all, as we were given a degree of freedom throughout the city, providing valuable life experiences, as we all mastered how to navigate the streets, hail taxis and use the infamous New York subway. Next we travelled to Los Angeles, where we visited Disneyland, every child’s dream, and the group was also lucky enough to participate in a leadership and behind-the-scenes seminar through Disneyland.

Overall, we got a rounded experience of Los Angeles, as we also visited Universal Studios, walked the Hollywood Walk of Fame and spent the afternoon in Santa Monica. We also got the opportunity to contribute to the American economy through some retail therapy before we headed back home. This trip was a great experience for us all, as we all learnt new things about the world whilst also encountering experiences that will be with us for life. We are all very grateful to have participated in the first ever USA Trip, and on behalf of all the students, I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Oman and Ms O’Connor for their time and effort in relation to this fantastic trip.

Anna Palmer Year 12 Student

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Late last year, Somerset College’s Prep students proudly demonstrated that they are already fast becoming engaged global citizens when they joined together to raise nearly $2,000 to help a poor overseas community.

The students were bringing to life the idea of classmate, Elliot Bartley, whose family holiday to Savusavu in Fiji in May allowed Elliot to recognise the dire need for financial assistance in the poor community and inspired him to want to use his love of chess to lend a helping hand.

The result was the 2012 Fiji Fundraiser Chess Simul, which saw all 25 Prep students who learn chess, be sponsored to play 10 chess moves against one of the Junior School’s best chess players, Kevin Song — all at the same time.

What was an enjoyable morning of chess for the players resulted in a total sponsorship pool of $1,908, thanks to the generosity of our 2012 Prep families and Mr Graeme Gardiner from Gardiner Chess, who very kindly matched dollar-for-dollar the amount raised by the Prep classes. It also helped teach the Prep students a lot about working as a team, helping others, and being caring friends.

To get the event off the ground, Elliot had to present the idea to Mrs Virginia Lamb for approval and then work with his teacher, Mrs Anne Copperwaite, his family, and Mr Gardiner to organise and stage the simul. Mrs Copperwaite says Elliot had a clear idea of what he wanted to achieve.

“When I was in Fiji, I learnt that some communities are not as fortunate as others and not everyone in Savusavu has enough money to buy the things they need. On our holiday, my brother won a hermit crab race, which was held to raise money for paper towels and liquid soap in the local hospital. This had a big impact on me,” said Elliot.

“I also spent a lot of time playing on a giant chess board in the kids’ club. So, I wanted to somehow use chess to raise money to help people in Savusavu. I wanted to help the Fijian village so that all the children in the school get to learn everything, and the people in the hospital get better. I think the event was great and I was really proud to see it happen,” he said.

The money raised has been donated to the Savusavu Community Foundation, which provides health, education, transportation, and environmental and cultural preservation to the community around Savusavu, the main town on Fiji’s second largest island of Vanua Levu, as well as continuing support in other areas of Fiji. Thank you Elliot and our 2012 Prep friends!

Natalie BartleyMother of Elliot Bartley (Year 1)

2012 Prep Chess Fundraiser


Somerset Lifetimes

Years 6 and 7 Musical – The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White

Milestones

BirthsBUTSON (Staff) – on 28 September 2012, a son Rowan Joshua to Andre and Brooke Butson

FISHER (Staff) – on 4 January 2013, a daughter Delilah Willow to Tim and Katrina Fisher

LEVITT (Staff) – on 21 February 2013, a son Henry Jens to Adam and Jennifer Levitt

OMAN (Staff) – on 17 May 2013, a daughter Olivia Anne to Dane and Jacky Oman.

MarriagesSALE (Staff) – on 8 September 2012 at St Margaret’s Chapel, Bundall, honeymooning in Hawaii and Europe; Diane Sale and Greg Spackman

SEXTON, Pamela (Staff) – on 11 May 2013 at the Lakeside Terrace, Gold Coast Arts Centre; Pamela Sexton and Stephen Cassidy.

STOKES (Staff) – on 30 March 2013 at Lakelands Golf Course, honeymooning at Pepper’s in Kingscliff; Julia Stokes and Christopher Collette

WALTON (Staff) – on 12 January 2013 at Southport Church of Christ, honeymooning at Phuket and Phi Phi Islands, Thailand; Stacie Walton and Quinn Coleman

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1. Rowan Joshua Butson in the arms of his father, Andre

2. Katrina Fisher with daughter Delilah Willow3. Adam and Jennifer Levitt welcomed Henry

Jens into the family4. Dane Oman with daughter Olivia Anna5. Diane and Greg Spackman on their wedding

day6. Pamela Sexton married Stephen Cassidy7. Christopher and Julia Collette on their

wedding day8. Stacie Walton became Mrs Coleman upon her

marriage to Quinn

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If you have any changes to mailing details or would like to let the College know what you have been doing since leaving Somerset College, we’d love to hear from you. Email [email protected].

Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba, Queensland 4213 Telephone 07 5559 7100 Facsimile 07 5559 7345 [email protected] ACN 010 946 906

Somerset Lifetimes

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