Mercy coMpassion justice dignity excellence hospitality stewardship service

Semester 1, 2011OLMsCene

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Principal’sReport

Welcome to the first edition of OLMsCene for 2011. The OLMsCene provides a snapshot of events and activities that have taken place in the College since the beginning of 2011.

The year began with staff and students eagerly awaiting access to the new Janet Woods Building. We had watched the building rise from the ground from November 2009, so there was indeed frustration at the delay which prevented us from initially moving into the building. It was with great excitement that we finally made the move and accessed the new facilities. It has changed the orientation of the College, in the sense that with the Library, Senior Common Room, kitchens, Science laboratories and Canteen situated there, a large number of students are now in that area. One of the key drivers of the Master Plan was to place the Chapel at the very centre of College life and this, too, has been achieved.

Throughout this semester, there has been other refurbishment work taking place to create the new Barbara McDonough Student Centre and Christina Creede Music Centre. Sister Barbara McDonough has had such a significant impact on OLMC as a student, teacher and Board member. We are indeed thankful for what she has contributed and we are pleased that she will continue to make a contribution as a member of the OLMC Parramatta Alumnae Executive and in her work with the archives.

As a consequence of the implementation of the Master Plan, the College Board, in consultation with the Sisters of Mercy, has made decisions regarding the naming of the new buildings and spaces. This has provided an opportunity to recognise many of the Sisters of Mercy who were such excellent leaders of the College in the past.

All students in the College, from Years 7 -12, now have access to a notebook computer as a tool for learning. This innovation, coupled with examining research into how girls learn most effectively and the move to the Janet Woods Building, led us to consider the best way to structure the school day. At the beginning of 2011, we introduced four 75 minute lessons each day. This has cut down on unnecessary movement from class to class, and gives teachers and students the opportunity to do intensive work. In addition, all Years 11 and 12 students have the same hours as the junior students as we have abolished the early start.

The OLMC Parramatta Alumnae and the Parents and Friends Association continue to work for the benefit of the College and provide opportunities for the alumnae and families to be actively involved in the College.

Kitty GuerinPrincipal

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OLMC’s newly named “Barbara McDonough Student Centre” recognises Sister Barbara McDonough who retired from the College Board earlier this year. It pays tribute to her many years of service to the College and Mercy education more widely.

As a Director on the Board, since its foundation in 2002, Sister Barbara has helped shape the College at a critical time in its history. “The transition to lay administration, that was a big thing and there’s also this great big building program…There’s been a lot done,” she says, reflecting on the highlights of her work with the Board. Sister Barbara has served as a member of the Board’s Building Committee and played an active role in the preliminary planning for the new Science buildings. She has also represented the Congregational Leader on the Board and chaired the Financial Assistance Committee which is responsible for student bursaries and emergency funding for families in need.

Sister Barbara’s association with the College began at the age of five. She and her four year old sister, Maureen, were “baby boarders” during 1942. Heightened anxiety about the safety of those living in coastal suburbs like Manly, during the Second World War, led to the two young children spending a year in the security of OLMC Parramatta. She can still vividly remember when they practised for air raids. Senior girls took charge of the young Barbara and Maureen as they headed to the ground floor of what is now the Brigid Shelly building. “It was a cloakroom,” she recalls “and so when we had a practice for the air raids, we’d all grab our pillows and go down to what was our air raid shelter.”

As a fifteen year old, she returned to OLMC in 1952 to repeat her Leaving Certificate. On Easter Sunday of the following year, aged only sixteen, she entered the Sisters of Mercy novitiate, taking the name Sister Irenaeus. In the ensuing years, she taught in a number of Mercy secondary schools in Sydney and was the Principal of Catherine McAuley, Westmead, and Holy Cross, Woollahra. Along the way, she completed a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education ( Administration). In 1963, she returned to OLMC and taught Science and later Religion until 1972.

Sister Barbara believes that OLMC, in 2011, is in many ways a more dynamic and “Mercy aware” place than schools of the past. “When I went to school,” she says, “you were told this is what you do and this is how you do it. Today the girls make decisions. People make a decision to take them [Mercy values] up. That’s a big change.” She is especially delighted when she now hears people say, “I’m a Mercy girl”. In her view, this reflects an exciting shift to a conscious and deliberate articulation of Mercy identity and values.

While she has just turned seventy-five, Sister Barbara’s keen intellect, sharp memory, sense of humour and active life reflect a woman not defined by society’s expectations of ageing. While she might also have stepped down from the College Board, she is currently the Secretary of the OLMC Alumnae, the Congregational Secretary and is involved with the College archives.

Nevertheless, she still finds time to relax and indulge her passion for sport which includes watching AFL games and participating in a lively AFL tipping competition. She enjoys listening to music and was particularly thrilled about seeing the musical Mary Poppins on her recent birthday. She has a reputation as a Sudoku enthusiast and an expert knitter; her numerous knitted items for charity and friends are often the result of her TV viewing, especially Days of Our Lives and sporting events like the recent French Open.

For Sister Barbara, “Mercy Day is really the highlight of the year”, and this makes her feel both excited and optimistic about the future of Mercy education at OLMC. Such celebrations, together with OLMC’s commitment to social justice programs and the inclusion of the Mercy charism in senior Religious Studies, ensure the Mercy tradition is alive and well. “They know they’re Mercy Girls,” she says proudly.

Sister Barbara McDonough: A Mercy Treasure

Maureen McDonough-aged 4 (left) and Barbara McDonough aged 5 (right)“Baby Boarders” OLMC 1942

Margaret Sidney (left), Barbara McDonough (centre), Angela Cummins (right) the week before entering the Novitiate 1953

Sr Edith Angel (left), Sr Barbara McDonough (centre), Sr Brenda Grant (Black Josephites) BA Graduation 1963

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P&F Association

The Parents and Friends Association of OLMC remains committed to working in partnership with members of our community in order to support the College in providing the best educational experiences for our girls. The promotion of opportunities for families to be informed and involved in College life has been the continuing focus of the Association for 2011.

It has been a very successful first half of the year for the P&F Association. March was a busy month. The Year 7 Welcome Night, sponsored by the P&F, was held on March 8. The Welcome Night is a night where the Year 7 parents and students break the ice and initiate the social networks that could continue through to Year 12. On March 28, the parents and students of OLMC, for 2013, had a very informative evening at the College, with the P&F hosting the Sausage Sizzle for supper. In addition, the new P&F Executive was voted in at the Annual General Meeting on March 15.

The Mother-Daughter Mass, held on May 12, was very well attended and of course supper was provided.

The P&F have two additional functions per year where the parents can meet socially: Saturday June 18, the Principal’s Cocktail Party and Saturday September 10, Trivia Night. The Trivia Night is a lot of fun and the proceeds go to charity.

We are currently in the planning stages for the Trivia Night and would appreciate involvement from the wider College community.

New faces and fresh ideas are welcome.

Other important events supported by the P&F for the remainder of the year include: the Father-Daughter Mass (with supper), Mercy Day celebrations (ice-creams for the girls), Year 9 (2012) Subject Selections (with supper), Year 12 (2011) sign-out (with lunch), Year 7 (2012) Orientation (with morning tea) and International Teachers’ Day (with morning tea).

P&F meetings, for the second half of the year, will include guest speakers who will cover informative and relevant topics. A warm invitation is extended to all parents to the P&F meetings. Dates are available on the College website, and reminders are also published in the College newsletter.

For further information on how you can be involved with the P&F Association, please contact the Executive Committee by email: pandf@olmc.nsw.edu.au

The P&F would like to take this opportunity to thank all OLMC families for their support so far this year and look forward to your ongoing participation.

Kerry de Pagter and Sue PilgrimPresidents

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Variety Night

For the past few years, OLMC has organised a Creative and Performing Arts Week which focuses on the various talents of the student body. This year’s CAPA leaders had an inspired idea: why not give each department a chance to share their uniqueness and demonstrate their appreciation of their art?

This began with Music Week, held from May 23 to 27, and included the annual Variety Night, organised by the Music Department. Each morning, during homeroom, a slightly altered ‘Guess the Song’ competition was held. The twist did indeed cause a few confused moments in some homerooms which were reflected in their answers! But nevertheless, it was an entertaining way to get the whole school - including the staff - involved. Live performances were held in the Janet Woods playground. Audiences were able to enjoy music amongst friends, whilst sitting on the lush, green grass under the bright sun.

This creative atmosphere reached its peak during the first busking competition. Buskers were situated around the playground and played various songs on their chosen instruments. Tokens were purchased and given to the buskers as a sign of support which, in turn, determined who won the competition. The school was soon in a musical frenzy. The girls’ support and generosity were very much appreciated. We were able to raise over $150 which went towards a Mercy action project - the Cambodia trip.

On May 26 and 27, the school’s annual Variety Night was held, representing the culmination of the performances and competitions during Music Week. The show was aptly titled ‘Iconic’ after this year’s theme, ‘Icons’. Patrons were treated to a red carpet

entrance to the hall, a star-lined staircase bearing the performers’ names, fairy lights and an assortment of delicious food. Friends, family and teachers pored over the program in anticipation of what was to come. The buzz in the hall, however, was nothing compared to the nervous energy backstage. Musicians, dancers, actors and singers rushed to be in full costume and make-up before the 7pm start, as the backstage and technical crew triple-checked that everything was in working order. There was a great air of anticipation as the lights finally dimmed in the hall and the actors took the stage with their Fame skit.

Throughout the rest of the night, the audience was treated to songs from The Sound of Music and Grease, as well as dancing, playing and singing to Michael Jackson, Beyonce, The Beatles, Lady Gaga, James Brown, Madonna and Bob Dylan - just to name a few. Each and every performance was greeted with a wild round of applause and cheers from the audience – a testament not only to the talent of the girls on stage but also to their friends and family who helped and supported them, all the way through.

At the conclusion of the show, there was an air of relief mixed with sadness backstage. Relief came with the knowledge that we had finished putting on a successful show, but there was sadness in the fact that for the Year 12 girls, this would be their last Variety Night. Tears were shed as hugs and gifts were shared in thanks. After everything had been cleared away, the girls and teachers descended into the cool, autumn night to go home to a much-needed rest.

Janina Hernandez and Sarah Fernandes (12.5 and 12.4)

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Sydney to FlorenceBy Natalie Wardan and Melissa Wehbe

We arrived in Milan at 6.00am, exhausted from the plane trip, and were met by our coach driver, Giuseppe, who drove us from Milan to Florence. The four hour bus ride finally ended with our arrival at the Leonardo Di Vinci Hotel. The temperature in Florence was about two degrees, plus the chill factor. Basically, it was FREEZING. After we settled into our hotel, we headed off on a walking day tour of Florence, a Renaissance city in the heart of Tuscany. Florence has some of Italy’s best museums and most beautiful cathedrals and churches. There are also interesting streets and squares with elegant buildings and shops. Our tour guide, Francesca, was a fount of knowledge and literally knew everything about the city! We travelled all around the city, entering many churches and other famous attractions.

Florence’s most famous square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic centre. The piazza has been Florence’s political centre since the Middle Ages. The Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues, including the original placement of Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue. Unfortunately, we ran out of time to see the original ‘David’. We did see, however, Florence’s Town Hall and the medieval Palazzo Vecchio. Other sculptures on the square are Baccio Bandinelli’s ‘Heracles and Cacus’, two statues by Giambologna - the equestrian statue of ‘Grand Duke Cosimo I and Rape of a Sabine’ – and Cellini’s ‘Perseus and Medusa’. At the centre of the piazza is the Neptune Fountain designed by Ammannati. Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Il Duomo) is iconic and one of the most recognizable symbols of Renaissance architecture. We didn’t get a chance to climb the four hundred and fourteen stairs (no lift) which led to what we were told were great views of the Cathedral, its dome and the city of Florence and surroundings. But we did get to see the Baptistry, one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Its bronze doors feature exquisitely carved depictions of scenes from the Bible. Many of us bought ‘University of Firenze’ jumpers, and a few bought leather jackets and wallets when we went to the markets that evening. Even though we were very tired, we made our way to the Ponte Vecchio, built in 1345, and the only surviving bridge from Florence’s medieval days. Other bridges were destroyed in World War II. The Ponte Vecchio is still lined with shops selling gold and silver jewellery. From the bridge, we had a great view along the Arno River and beyond.

The next day, we were up early for breakfast and headed off for a day of leisure in Florence, before we were to board the bus for Rome. We were wearing four layers of clothing and were still cold! The freezing temperature is one thing we won’t miss too much about Florence! Rather than spending the whole day shopping, we combined both sight-seeing and shopping. Thanks to Lizzie’s translating skills, we were able to catch a bus to Fiesole on a hill, five kilometres north of Florence. We visited the main square which is ringed with cafes, restaurants and shops. On one side is the pretty fourteenth century Palazzo Pretorio, the Town Hall, where we had a view, over the mist, of the whole of Florence. It was absolutely beautiful. Italy really is an amazing country.

Mercy Pilgrimage 2011

RomeBy Chantal Riccardi and Taylor Hunter

On January 4, with Lizzy as our interpreter, we travelled by bus from Florence to Rome. It had been a long day, and we were still jetlagged and very tired. We were up at six in the morning and later walked half way around Rome and back.

On January 5, we met our adorable tour guide, Franco, who would be our protector and father figure whilst in Rome. Our first full day in Rome was a wet one and especially cold. All of us, already proclaiming ourselves the 12 disciples, shivered in our parkas. However, no one was colder than Chantal who always managed to have double the amount of clothing of anyone else: thirteen layers was her record!

Our first stop was the famous Trevi Fountain. There we took an amazing number of photos, and Liz even managed to get into trouble from the guard for standing on the rocks, which apparently is a big no, no. When in Rome, you do as the Romans do; so we couldn’t leave the Trevi Fountain without having a gelato right in front of the fountain itself.

Next, we followed Franco through crowds and headed towards the Pantheon, having every statue and monument explained in depth to us. Ms Manning, Mrs Martin and Mrs Brewer carefully steered us away from every shop within sight. We liked to think we were boosting their economy!

After the Pantheon we jumped on our tour bus and drove to another country, Vatican City, where we viewed the countless beautiful

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statues, mosaics and paintings that the Vatican held. At the end of it all, however, we thought it was an overgrown seagull that had probably captured most of our attention. From the Vatican, we headed towards the Catacombs. They were cold, creepy and slightly disturbing, and each of us tried not to imagine what it would have been like, considering it was once a massive burial ground.

On January 6, we pulled ourselves out of bed at 5:30am in an attempt to get ready for our day in Pompeii. A three hour bus ride later and three hours extra sleep, we arrived at our destination. There we saw many of the buildings that had been excavated and the casts of people who had been ‘frozen’ in time. We were able to get a feel for how life would have been in those times.

From Pompeii we went to Emperor Nero’s wife’s villa in Napoli, where we found that our entry was not free. So it was decided that the girls who wanted to go would go with Ms Manning and explore.

By January 7, we had well and truly fallen in love with Rome. The teachers were also beginning to realise that they would have to work hard to stop our serious shopping problem. On that day, we went with Franco to the Colosseum where we were told the bloody history of the monument and, soon afterwards, had the chance to take some funny photos with the gladiators.

The next day, we all hopped back on to our tour bus to head back to the Vatican and were again shown mosaics, paintings and statues. We also got the chance to visit the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling with the beautiful artwork by Michelangelo. That night we went to visit St. Pudentiana’s which contains the original painting of Our Lady of Mercy. We ended the day with an illuminated tour of Rome which most of us were too exhausted to even remember.

On our last day in Rome, we went to Santa Maria Maggiori for a morning High Mass with thirty priests. We then moved on back to the Vatican for a Papal blessing. Unfortunately, that was the end of Rome for us. After parting words of wisdom from our beloved Franco, we headed to the airport and flew to Dublin.

PompeiiRenee Filpi and Jessica Egger

One of the highlights of the OLMC Mercy Trip to Italy and Ireland was the day we spent at Pompeii. For us, as History students, this trip was particularly enjoyable and informative, an opinion shared by the entire group. Each of us had heard many things about Pompeii, but when faced with the enormous significance of this ancient city in ruins, we were all awe-struck. Our informative guide took us through the wide-paved streets that spread throughout the city. Equipped with our headsets, we pressed on through the various tour groups as our guide paused to explain the significance of the fountains, paving stones, various frescos, wall decorations and ‘advertisements’. We also saw the ancient Pompeian equivalents of fast-food “take-aways” and public spa. We were taken inside a Pompeian villa, which a wealthy land-lord would rent out to those who could afford to stay there. Inside the villa, detailed frescos adorned the walls in vibrant shades of red, blue and gold. The highlight of Pompeii was no doubt the Forum. The Forum is a wide open space that was much larger than we had anticipated. This open area was bustling with various tourists, speaking in Japanese, Russian and English, as well as Italian tourists who had flocked here to see the wonders of this ancient city. The Forum is framed by the remains of free-standing columns which rise two storeys high in some areas. Whilst at the Forum, we also had the opportunity to view some pottery and body casts that were in storage to be sent off to museums. Of particular interest were the body casts of some of the original citizens and inhabitants of Pompeii : a pregnant girl, a man and a dog. After Pompeii, we all boarded the coach and travelled to Naples where we visited the ancient city of Oplontis, another city affected by Vesuvius. Whilst there we visited a villa that belonged to the wife of the emperor, Nero. This villa, unlike those in Pompeii, created a more intimate atmosphere, and we were able to explore the interior of a house in which the emperor’s wife lived. This villa contained stunning frescoes, indicative of the wealth and grandeur of the emperor and his wife. The wall to floor frescoes depicted scenes of grand rooms and columns that created the allusion of a large open space and enhanced the rooms of the villa. Out in the villa gardens, there was a large open indentation that was once a large swimming pool. From the volcanic mud-casts of the original vegetation in the gardens, the original plants could be determined, and olive trees have been replanted where they would have once grown. All in all, it was a very enjoyable and rewarding experience of which we are very glad to have been a part.

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Capturing the History of OLMC

The OLMC Board recently had both the honour and great pleasure of naming the new and renovated buildings, facilities and open space which are being constructed as part of the implementation of the College Master Plan. This continues a long tradition and provides us with a wonderful opportunity to further honour the Sisters, who have served as Principals of the College, as well as others who have contributed so much to OLMC’s Mercy ethos and rich history.

OLMC Parramatta has now been providing education to young women for one hundred and twenty two years, and during that long period, eight women have held the position of Principal. Seven of the Principals were Sisters of Mercy, and it was not until 2004 that Mrs Kitty Guerin, the first lay Principal, was appointed. The women who have served as Principal of OLMC include:

• Mother Mary Alacoque Kavanagh (1889–1908)• Mother Mary Frances Kearney (1909–1933• Mother Mary Alphonsus Stanley (1934–1945)• Sister Mary Gonzaga Stanley (1946–1964)• Sister Edith Angel (1965–1977)• Sister Janet Woods (1978–1989)• Sister Ailsa Mackinnon (1990–2004)• Mrs Kitty Guerin (2004–present)

Since the school’s foundation, there has been an ongoing building program to cater for both increased student numbers and the changing nature of education. By 1929, the expansion of the school led to the erection of a new building which was named the Brigid Shelly Building, in recognition of one of the early Sisters.

Further expansion took place over the years as more land became available. In 1967, the Francis Kearney Building was opened; in 1969, the Catherine McAuley Library and Hall; in 1989, the Heritage Rooms were refurbished and named the Stanley Rooms, in honour of Sister Gonzaga Stanley and her sister Mother Alphonsus Stanley; and in 1994, the Martha O’Sullivan Technology Wing was constructed. The hall was refurbished in 2006 and named the Edith Angel Hall, in recognition of the leadership of Sister Edith Angel.

The current building program has provided further opportunities to honour the Sisters of Mercy, and after much discussion, the Board has agreed on the following names for our new and improved facilities:

• the Janet Woods Building - new library, science laboratories and other student facilities. Sister Janet Woods, who was Principal during the 1980’s, was also the first Sister to undertake science studies at university. It seemed very fitting to name the new building in her honour.

• Kavanagh Place – the open space in front of the new building. This recognises the important role of Sister Alacoque Kavanagh RSM as the first Principal of OLMC. In Kavanagh Place, we will provide an outline of the early history of the Mercy Sisters, at Parramatta and the school, through a number of plaques in this space.

• the Ailsa Mackinnon Community Centre – planned to be constructed by the end of 2015. Sister Ailsa Mackinnon, Principal for 15 years and the last Sister of Mercy to serve in this role, guided the College through the incorporation process and the appointment of a lay principal.

• the Edith Angel Theatre - to be created in the area occupied by the current Edith Angel Hall. Sister Edith Angel, Principal from 1965-1977, oversaw one of the largest building programs in the College’s history. This was a result of changes in the government funding of Catholic schools and changes in school curriculum.

• the Christina Creede Music Centre - to be built as part of the refurbishment of the previous library. Sister Christina Creede was a music teacher for many years at OLMC. As a violinist she taught all stringed instruments and was in charge of the orchestra, preparing many of its arrangements. Sister Christina saw that there were many talented students who were not learning instruments, and she encouraged a wider involvement in music across the whole student body.

• the Barbara McDonough Student Centre. Sister Barbara’s involvement in OLMC started in 1942 as a ‘baby boarder’. She was sent there for safety during the war. She was on the teaching staff from 1963 to 1972, was Principal of Holy Cross, Woollahra, and Catherine McAuley High Westmead, and was a member of the first Board of OLMC. She is also actively involved in the Alumnae Association. The Student Centre will be on the ground floor of the Francis Kearney Building, in the same area as the previous science laboratories that Sister Barbara set up when the building first opened.

There are other rooms and spaces that will be named as they are built or renovated. There will also be the option of naming some specialist music rooms after other Sisters who contributed so much to our musical heritage

We are designing signage and commemorative plaques to outline the contributions made by each of the above and other Congregation members who have been similarly honoured at the College. These will have greater meaning for the present and future school community. We are excited by the concept of capturing the history of OLMC and promoting the Mercy Sisters, who contributed to its development, through the naming of buildings.

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From aviation to podiatry, the range of options being pursued by the girls shows that this cohesive Year 12 group was made up of students with a broad range of personal interests. Whilst significant numbers have enrolled in arts, business and communication studies, others are pursuing study in the areas of health sciences, law, engineering, education, nutrition, psychology, nursing, policing and criminology, exercise science, mathematics, medical science, music, radiography, science, architecture, design, pharmacy, social science, tourism and leisure, hospitality, retail accounting, beauty, fine arts, design, aviation and podiatry.

One hundred and thirty-one girls received offers for places at university. They are studying at Macquarie University, the University of Sydney, the University of Western Sydney, ACU National, the University of Technology Sydney, the University of New South Wales, and the University of Notre Dame. Some have ventured further afield, studying at the University of Newcastle, the University of Wollongong, Griffith University and the University of New England. Thirty-two are at the University of Technology

Sydney, so they could see a familiar face in the first-year undergraduate cohort! Seventeen girls are continuing their studies at university colleges, TAFE and private colleges, while two gained positions in the workplace.

Once again it has been inspiring to hear about the interesting careers the girls are pursuing, and we would like to acknowledge all the girls on their achievements. We are aware of a number of scholarship winners and congratulate Marie Torres, Louise Marvin and Andrea Kuznicki who were awarded University of Sydney Scholarships. No doubt there are omissions from this list, and I would be delighted to hear from any girls I have missed.

We wish the Class of 2010 great success and wonderful adventures as they pursue their interests in the coming years. A broadening of experience often brings changes in direction, so please keep in touch and let us know how life is going as an ‘ex-student’.

Elizabeth Dolphin edolphin@olmc.nsw.edu.au

The Class of 2010 – Where are they now?

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The 2010 Catherine McAuley OLMC Parramatta Alumnae Award was presented to Stephania Dajuk (nee Czryka, Leaving Certificate 1964) on International Women’s Day, in March this year. This award recognises the recipient’s outstanding achievements in the spirit of Catherine McAuley. After finishing school at OLMC, Stephania completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours Economics) at the

University of New South Wales. She then worked at the Reserve Bank as a Research Economist and later taught at a number of schools. She is well known to many students at OLMC because, in recent years, she has taught at the College in the area of Social Science.

Amongst her many achievements has been her outstanding work with the Ethnic Communities Council of NSW which led to the establishment of the Saturday School of Community Languages. Stephania has also made significant contributions to the language, culture and welfare of the Ukrainian community. Her commitment to the ideals of multiculturalism, equality and justice has enriched the lives of many Australians. In recognition of this, she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for Service to Education and Ethnic Welfare.

ALuMnAe

In Stephania’s address to the OLMC community on IWD, she spoke of her gratitude to the Sisters of Mercy who educated her, in the spirit of Catherine McAuley, from kindergarten at St Edna’s, Toongabbie, to the completion of her secondary education at OLMC. Stephania is a powerful example of what it means to live out Mercy values.

The following is an Extract from Stephania’s speech:

“I enthusiastically participated in Ethnic Affairs because I saw myself as building bridges between ethnic communities and Australians – a voice of many, articulating ethnic needs in terms of justice and equality for all. I became woven in the events contributing to our rich multicultural fabric, to create better choices for all children and forcing governments to introduce legislation for the teaching of Community Languages. Along the way, I learnt to reach out and respect the intellect and aspirations of these ethnic groups. I acquired skills and interpersonal relationships which provided me with the courage and confidence to face problems and challenges by becoming open to different views and evolve my own accordingly.

Catherine McAuley saw Mercy as a gift to be passed on to and shared with others. She was innovative and transformed social injustice by changing inadequate structures in society...I hope I have followed her lead, to a very small degree, in bringing hope, kindness and faith into the world. After all, kindness is love with hands, hearts and minds…the more acts of kindness we offer, the more of them we have to give…

We look ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await our OLMC students as…[21st century] women. They need to be politically aware, astute and realise their responsibilities in a globalised technological world. And always remember - it’s good to be important, but it’s more important to be good…”

Presentation of the Catherine McAuley OLMC Parramatta Alumnae Award

The 2011 Catherine McAuley OLMC PARRAMATTA ALuMnAE AwARD

nominations are now called for the 2011 Catherine McAuley OLMC Parramatta Alumnae Award

If you are an ex-student of the College and know of another ex-student who strives for excellence and displays Mercy values in her life and relationships, please consider nominating her for the award.

Each nomination will be presented to the Selection Panel (made up of members of the OLMC Parramatta Alumnae and College Executive) who will choose the recipient of the award, based on some or all of the following criteria:

• commitment to and involvement in social justice activities• personal, academic and professional achievement• demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity

• community involvement• contribution to Mercy/Christian based activities

• contribution to local, Australian or international communities• voluntary work beyond paid employment

• nature and length of service

A written submission, including supporting documentation, can be sent to either alumnae@olmc.nsw.edu.au or L.M.B. 14 PO, North Parramatta NSW 1750 (Attention Alumnae).

Applications close September 23, 2011.

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alumnaeLyndall Hord (HSC 2006) - 3 Peaks 3 weeks world Challenge 2012

I am one of twelve women, from around the world, selected to take part in 3 Peaks 3 weeks 2012.

In January next year, our team will climb to the summits of Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Kenya and Mt Meru, in just three weeks, to raise money and awareness for the three, key issues currently threatening Africa: environment, education and health. 3 Peaks 3 Weeks is an annual, all-female expedition that supports and encourages three grassroots community organisations in East Africa: St Jude’s School in Tanzania, Laikipia Wildlife Foundation in Kenya, and Support for International Change-in particular, its HIV/AIDS program throughout rural Tanzania.

3 Peaks 3 Weeks is about dedication, motivation and inspiring young women to climb higher and push harder for Africa’s future. I will be taking part in this endurance event with eleven women from America, France, England, Switzerland and Germany. We are the fifth international team chosen to take on this challenge.

I feel so excited, inspired, blessed and truly humbled to be selected as part of the 2012 3 Peaks 3 Weeks team. I would like to thank the OLMC Alumnae for their incredible support , as I prepare for this daunting physical and personal challenge.

Lyndall Hord

would YOu like to sponsor Lyndall and her charity work?

The Alumnae Committee has already agreed to contribute $2,000 on your behalf. To add to this, please contact the

Alumnae Secretary, Barbara McDonough at: Email: blcktwn@iprimus.com.au or

Post: 69 Allawah Street, Blacktown 2148

International Support for Change

School of St Jude Tanzania

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ALuMnAe

Class of 1956

Let’s try a for a large gathering for our 55th Reunion. Sister Janet and I thought it a good idea not to wait till the 60th. Marie Rochford is coming out from England and I thought it a great occasion to catch up with her and all our friends from the past. After attending the school reunion, maybe we could have dinner later at a local eatery.

Please contact Marian Harriss (Gerrard) at marian@17bigpond.com or 02-9683-1536.

Leaving Certificate 1961. was that you? Or Intermediate Certificate 1959?

Do you know girls from these classes?

Our 50th reunion will be a lunch on November 1, 2011. We want as many of us as possible to come together to celebrate. We have 23 acceptances already!

To find out more about it, email Patricia Rochford par@rochford-int.com or ring Helen Johnson Curran on 02 9969 2477.

Class of 1981 – It is our fortieth anniversary of leaving OLMC

Could you please forward your contact details to elizabethsvoboda@bigpond.com so that we can arrange a gathering for our 40th.

If anyone would like to form a committee with me to arrange this reunion, please contact me on this email or on my telephone number 0417 333 533. Elizabeth Svoboda

You are invited to the Annual OLMC Reunion Day - 2011

• Date: Sunday, September 18, 2011• Registration Table open from 10 00 a.m.

(enter by Ross St. gate near Hall)• Registration Fee: $15 (luncheon) – payable on the day (cash)

or by direct deposit beforehand to Westpac 032-078 Account 35-9781 – please make sure your surname appears in the description field

• Mass begins at 11.00 a.m. in the Chapel• OLMC musicians and cantors will provide music for the Mass.• AGM follows Mass in new Library (Janet Woods Building)• Light Luncheon in Senior Common Room (JW Building) after

meeting• Tours of the new Janet Woods Building available (with

student guides)

RSVP required by Monday, September 12, for catering purposes.Any special dietary requirements? Disabled parking needs? Other requests/ enquiries? Please contact Bernadette Jackson on alumnae@olmc.nsw.edu.au or 88381215

Mass Intentions / Participation

Would you like to assist? If so, please make contact on the email address/phone number above.We would like to make special inclusion in our Liturgy of some or all of the following:• names of Alumnae deceased, especially since last Reunion

(Please notify us beforehand so that names can be read out during Mass)

• intentions of the Year groups 1941, 1951, 1961, 1971, 1981 etc who have an “0” anniversary this year and/ or some symbols of your group - to be given special attention during the Entrance Procession, involving one or more of your group

• participation of some attendees as Readers, or in the Offertory or Entrance procession

AGM. (n.B. This is an election year.)

While some members of the current committee are willing to stand for re-election, there is still a need for some more committee members. There are only 4 - 5 meetings per year, and the major event is the Annual Reunion. Please consider allowing yourself to be nominated or approach a peer to consider it herself. A wider input of ideas from a larger cross-section of year groups would be appreciated.

• Nominations are called for the following positions: President, Vice-Presidents (2), Treasurer, Secretary, Committee Members• Nominations can be made by any member of the Alumnae.• A seconder is required for all nominations before the election takes place.• Nominations should be sent to alumnae@olmc.nsw.edu.au or by post to LMB 14, P.O. North Parramatta NSW 1750 by

September 15, 2011

OLMsCene 13

alumnae

Do you have any news to share? If you do please contact the College by phone on 02 9683 3300 or by email at community@olmc.nsw.edu.au and we will try and include it in our next edition of the OLMsCene.

news from our ex-student community

Lauren Caruana HSC 2007Lauren is currently completely an Exercise Science Degree, via distance education. She has studied and worked her way from a fitness instructor, to Studio Manager, to Corporate Support and National Training Co-Ordinator for Contours Australia. This most recent role involves her travelling the country in order to provide training and support to Contours franchisees.

Engagements/weddings

Lauren Caruana (HSC 2007)Lauren has recently become engaged to Jayme, and they plan to marry in November, 2012.

Elizabeth Patrick married Craig Ferguson at St Patrick’s Church, Gundagai, on April 30, 2011. They celebrated afterwards with family and friends at Nargoon Winery, Gundagai. Liz and Craig are living in Gundagai.

Julia Patrick married Phillip Blackford on the November 6, 2010, at Ballast Point. Their reception was held at the Dry Dock Hotel, Balmain. Julia and Phillip are both physiotherapists and are living in Gladesville.

Elizabeth Patrick on her wedding day.

Julia Patrick on her wedding day.

14 OLMsCene

ALuMnAe

In MEMORIAM

Early in 2011, we made a big effort to find Alumnae who had been life members of the previous Ex-Students’ Association. Many replied themselves, but in a few cases, a partner or family member replied that the person sought had passed away. Some of these are remembered here.

Marie Threlfo (Lynch) OLMC 1939-41Marie passed away quietly earlier this year. Marie Lynch was born in the front room of her family home at 12 Pitt St Parramatta on May 26, 1925, the third child and only girl in a family of four. She finished school at OLMC after the Intermediate, in 1941, and began a life of working with and for others, in a range of situations where her strength of character and love of people came to the fore.

Her niece, Ronnie (Veronica Lynch, 1971, and our current Treasurer) remembers well how Aunty Marie assisted her father (Marie’s brother, George) with his young children, after the untimely death of their mother in 1965. Over many years, she became their “second mother”. She had four boys herself and looked on Ronnie and Jenny as ‘her girls’, the daughters she never had.

An involved mother with all, including her extended family, she would say she passed every school year and subject of all her boys, except when the Maths got too hard. This same support for education was given to ‘her girls’ and grandchildren. She attended any and all school functions that she could so that ‘thanks to grandparents’, at her family’s schools, became a common occurrence.

Marie was a lifelong lover and supporter of many sports, and her proud son declared in his eulogy: “Mum was a joiner and liked to organise everything from the scouts, the many clubs she joined, the church and her family.” In these ways she was truly a ‘Mercy girl’.

She will live on in the hearts of her loving family and all those she helped throughout her life.

May she rest in peace.

Frances Killion (nee Donnolley) LC 1950Sadly, Frances died in 2004 from a brain tumour. She began her life at OLMC as a five year old boarder. Her husband, Associate Professor Les Killion, recently recalled Frances’ enduring affection for the College and the special place of OLMC in both their lives. He also believed the College laid the foundations of her significant career as a social worker and her eventual role as Foundation Head of the School of Social Work and Welfare Studies at Central Queensland University.

Colin Swan R.I.P. (1934- 2010)I appreciate so much the offer to write for OLMsCene about the recent death of my husband, Colin Swan. I want to let the many, many past students of OLMC know he passed away suddenly on October 10, 2010, aged 76 years.

Colin was assistant coach to Victor Edwards from 1952-1976 and, after Vic’s death, commenced his own tennis school on the Northern Beaches, returning to OLMC from 1987 till retiring in the late 90’s.

I know how dedicated, passionate and, at times, very tough he was about his coaching. He was not coaching to find the champions (although he taught many such as Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Mark Edmondson and Christine O’Neill – those being our last three Australian Champions in 1976, ’77 and ’78); rather his driving force was for the love of the game and to pass that on to all the students he ever taught.

In the heady days of the 50s, 60s and 70s, he coached over 3,000 students per week. He also coached the New Zealand Davis Cup and Federation Cup teams in the 1970s.

In the late 80s and 90s, our eldest son, Mark, ably assisted him at OLMC (thus being a second generation coach and son of an OLMC student).

Colin and I met up again in the mid-60s and married in January, 1966. We were blessed with six children - four boys and two girls - and have further blessings of twelve grandchildren. We would have been married forty-five years on January 29, 2011.

We miss “Swanny” with our deepest love, but we also know how he absolutely loved what he did, and we hope you all continue to do the same.

Anne Swan (nee Sidney) OLMC student and boarder (1952-1959)

Pauline Maher (Mulhearn) OLMC 1934Pauline passed away on June 14, 2010, aged 92 years. One of her sons wrote:“Throughout her life, our mother made a point of keeping in touch with her associates from OLMC and also flew the flag for, and tried to instil in others, the faith and values instilled in her during her years as a boarder at the College. Sadly, most of her contemporaries are now deceased.”

Terry Maher May 11, 2011

Frances on her PhD graduation day-the University of Queensland 1993

OLMsCene 15

alumnaewHERE ARE THEY nOw?

Life members of OLMC Ex-Students’ AssociationCan you help with contact details?Contact Barbara at blcktwn@iprimus.com.au or 69 Allawah St, Blacktown 2148

Philippa Andrew (1980)Pat Angel (Lynch) (1934)Jacqueline Anton (Towers)Maureen Arnett (Sherry)Lucy Bagala (1984)Nicole Baker (1988)Judith Barry (1972)Kathleen Begg (Hines) (1936)Sandra Biasi (Arrigo) (1974)Gerardine Brierley (Rich) (1972)Anne CaffeyMarie Carey (Lahiff) (1933)Sue Carter (Blodziunas) (1968)Therese Cashman (Nixon) (1947)Robyn Clarke (Lee) (1983)Margaret Clitheroe (Warren) (1970)Leanne Clough (1994)Catherine Coghlan (Bray) (1975)Jacqueline Connor (1994)Joy Cook (Ryan) (1958)Frances Cowling (Taylor) (1971)Gleeca Cox Anne Currie (Hutchinson) (1953)Catherine D’Arcy (Johnston) (1976)Rosemary De Beer (Cranney) (1974)Margaret De Laurence (1948)Karen Demarco (1987)Claire Doggett (Turner) (1955)Lesley Dowling (Hamilton) 1967)Mary Dumas (Canty (1957)Shirley Enright (Brennan) (1949)Anne Farbotko (1991)Barbara Farrell (Grist) (1948)Lyn Flanagan (1973)Nuala/ Nicola? Fogarty (1980)Frances Forrest (1934)Monica Fox (Rich) (1976)Joan Francis (McCallum) (1935)Catherine GallowayMary Gates (Smith) (1946)Maree Graham (1981)Catherine Green (1982)Christine Hall (Welsh) 1975Gayle Hansen (McInerney) (1963)Betty Harding (Daly) (1940)Elizabeth Harris (1979)Sandra Healey (Lever) (1960)

Carmel Heazlewood (Magee) (1977)Patrice Heesh (Brien) (1939)Anne-Marie Hickey (Morris) (1957)Christine Hodgetts (De Mattia) (1973)Catherine Hunt (1982)Myra Irwin (Wright) (1962)Simone Jena (1994)Margaret Johnson (Blodziunas) Julie Johnson (1982)Rebecca Joseph (1992)Maryann Judge (1971)Donna Kaschella (Dublewicz) (1966)Megan Kenny (1989)Angela King (1989)Cathy King (Poole) (1974)Gina Knox (Ventura) (1981)Ann-Maree Koop (1984)Jan Kricker (Hartigan) (1960)Kerrie Hull (Way) (1971)Maureen Livingston (Dolan) (1959)Beth Lown (Healy) (1938)Catherine Mahoney (Olsen) Patricia Mason (Finn)Billie Mathews (Sin) (1944)Josephine McBride (Barnes) (1953)Moya McConnell (Doyle)Kate McDonald (1965)Anne McDonald (McMonagle (1974)Theresa McFarlane (Bresnahan) (1970)Louise McGovern (1086)Mary McGrath (Brogan) (1974)Sharon McKinnon (Blane) (1976)Margaret Mercieca (1972)Teresa Moore (1989)Rachel Myers (1994)Peg Neylan (Doyle)Margaret O’Brien (Elith) (1958)Virginia Oliver (1982)Maree Osborne (1988)Clare Parker (Travis) (1985)Genevieve Parkes (Lee) (1958)Robyn Payne (King) (1960)Marcia Pearson (Dellow)Thelma Peters (Norton) (1940)Bruna Pettenon (Rossi) (1979)Nancy Poole (Clarke) (1939)Bohdanna Prudnyk (1981)

Maryanne Quinn (1967)Gemma Raftery (1981)Margaret Regan (Liggins) (1946)Margaret Reilly (McAlary)Laraine Richardson (Wild) (1970)Noreen Rintoul (Burke) (1946)Annette Roach (Wyeth)Rebecca Roberts (Robertson) (1989)Louise Roden (1978)Clancy Rowe (1987)Cecilie Scarf (Williams) (1953)Nadia Schiavon (1977)Jan Scott-Miller (Edwards) (1951)Margaret Silvy (1977)Dr Mary Sinclair (Gillin) (1962)Janet Smart (Trothe) (1952)Jenny Stark (Bell ) (1976)Patricia Stokoe (Munro) (1948)Elizabeth Studer (Smith) (1961)Bronwyn Sullisvan (Black) (1973)Pam Taig (Hickey) (1953)Michelle TallonJune Tannett (Little) (1964)Mary Taylor (Dorahy) (1948)Elise Tesch (1989)Jillian Ton (Waller) (1961)Robyn Treseder (Shepherd) (1953)Wendy Trigg (1990)Margaret Trus (Daly) (1940)Maureen Tulk (Melville) (1960)Ildy Turner (Lehoczky) (1959)Lisa Turner (1990)Jane Van Ryswyk (Graham) (1981)Judy VaughanYvette Vella (1994)Jan Vieser (Paxton) (1957)Beverly Vikis (Howe) 1946)Caroline Walkon (Ogle) (1981)Leanne Ward (Blank) (1980)Elizabeth White (Clough) (1983)Elaine Williams (Peterson) (1957)Karen Wilson (1985)Clare Woodfield (1992)Margaret Woods (McClellan) (1951)Denise Wyatt (Maher) (1940Eileen Young (Robley) (1935)

16 OLMsCene

Building For the Future: College Master Plan Update

During the first half of 2011, the new Janet Woods Building was completed. This facility, costing over $9 million, is the largest building project undertaken by the College in over 80 years, and students are now enjoying all that it has to offer.

Six fully equipped science laboratories and a botany room provide for all science learning to take place in a purpose built environment, with high technology facilities at hand to complement the Student Notebook Computer Program. The new library, with its spacious, contemporary design, is a popular choice for students wishing to undertake individual and group research or study. It also supports a range of cocurricular school activities such as debating.

The efficiency of the new, self-serve canteen offers students a prompt service for the selection of a range of hot and cold meals. The Year 12 Common Room is a flexible space, opening onto a paved, outside area. New domestic and commercial kitchens are served by a common preparation room and provide a modern environment for practical lessons.

Works have taken place, throughout the College, to improve student comfort and accessibility, including refurbishment of classrooms, installation of lifts and other disability access measures.

A number of refurbishment works are planned for completion in 2011. They will include:• demolition works to create open space at the entry to the

College. This area will improve disability access and student amenity, with landscaping reflecting the Mercy values of the College.

• creation of the Christina Creede Centre for music, incorporating classrooms, tuition rooms, ensemble rooms and a performance space, with adjacent lift access to the Edith Angel Hall.

• creation of the Barbara McDonough Student Centre with a dedicated entry and reception for students, sick bay, and improved amenities for student counsellors and learning support.

• completion of the new administration area, commenced in 2009, in order to provide improved access for parents and visitors to the Principal’s office and other administrative services.

• additional teachers’ offices and common room

A commitment has been made to student comfort, and this has been balanced with the need for environmental sustainability. All new works and refurbishments have incorporated air conditioning as well as supplementary measures aimed at energy efficiency. This commitment is continuing through other existing spaces.

The Student Notebook Program, that provides notebook computers to all students, is served by high quality infrastructure and support. As an integral part of all building works, the College continues to upgrade its infrastructure and has recently replaced the entire wireless network, resulting in excellent connectivity throughout the College.

Planning has commenced for a refurbishment, during 2012, which will provide additional space for performing arts, including dance. Long term planning is ongoing as the College works towards the realisation of the remaining elements of the College Master Plan 2008-2016.