Whole Person Education - Knox Grammar School

CONTENTS //June 201102 From the Headmaster04 From the Chairmanof School Council06 21st Century Boarding08 Preparatory School11 Life at Knox20 Knox Academy of Performing Arts23 Knox Sports Academy25 Adieu26 Old Knox GrammariansOn the front cover – Max Purcell(Y7) was selected to represent TennisAustralia at the 1998 European ClayCourt Tour which is for boys and girlswhose year of birth is 1998. Four boysand four girls were selected nationally.Max had the extraordinary opportunityto train at Roland Garros and then playback-to-back tournaments in Sloveniaand Italy during May. The Australianteam was accompanied by a managerand coach, and for Max the tour mayhelp him decide whether he does indeedwant to pursue tennis as a career,not only from a training and touringpoint of view, but in also dealing withthe European players who are veryexperienced. Photos courtesy and ©Australian Open.acknowledgementsThis edition of The Thistle was prepared byJanet Naylon, Print Publications Manager,Knox Grammar School.Design and print management by ARTSPECBrand Engagement, www.artspec.com.auAcknowledgements – proofreading by FernChristian, photography by Paul Wright, Knoxstaff, students and parents.The Thistle is printed on Mega Silk Art paperwhich is manufactured under and adheresto the rigorous international environmentalstandards of FSC accredited stock. Printed byISO accredited and FSC accredited printer.FROM THE HEADMASTERA World Viewfor A World SchoolI recently ran into an old friend who asked mehow I was enjoying life working and living inthe North Shore bubble. Firstly I told him howmuch I loved it and then let him know thatcompared to the Blue Mountains bubble, theHunter Valley bubble, the Illawarra bubble orthe South West Slopes bubble (where I havelived and worked in the past), this was theplace for me. Let me assure you our world ismade up of many bubbles!People can refer to schools like this too, theKnox bubble, the PLC bubble, for example.What I think people mean by this is that ininstitutions and communities we developsome particularly distinctive attitudes andbehaviours which set us apart. Well, if that isso, viva la difference!What I don’t accept is the view that we insulateourselves from the realities of others or thatwe have little understanding or interest in thosebeyond the invisible dividing lines of our owncommunities. Here at Knox we are continuallydeveloping opportunities for our boys tointeract with and learn about the world beyondthe North Shore, Sydney and Australia to helpthem develop a better understanding of theworld they will participate in.Last year alone almost 600 boys and theirteachers were involved in working withoutside organisations in community service, insocial justice programs, experienced overseasexchanges, participated in a major tour,competed against the best in the world orenjoyed a GAP experience. If Knox boys livein a bubble they have no problem leaving it tolearn about the world of which we are all part.In order for these life enriching and sometimeslife changing experiences to happen wepartner with a diverse range of organisations.Much of our community service and socialjustice work happens with the assistance ofthe Uniting Church. Our work at Milne Bayin Papua New Guinea occurs with UnitingWorld and annually we partner with theSony Foundation to run, with Abbotsleigh,the ABBOX of Fun Camp for children withdisabilities. In 2012 Knox boys will head toCambodia to work in the education programfor young orphans in that country.Through the Values Exchange Program, da VinciDecathlon and Future Problem Solving ourboys work with other students from aroundNSW, Australia and across the world.Developing a world view is further encouragedthrough our membership and participationin the International Boys’ Schools Coalitionwhere teachers from around the worldcome together to share ideas concerningthe education of young men. Our teachersinterface through conferences with colleagues,and are regularly invited to speak atconferences, both in Australia and overseas.More recently Knox has linked with oneof the world’s leaving institutes devoted todeveloping mentally fit young people. ThePositive Psychology Institute is providing Knoxwith access to world breaking research.The above are but a few of the groups withwhich we partner. In summary we work with60 community and social justice organisations,fifteen schools in five continents, and manyorganisations which require our boys to lookbeyond their own environments.For our boys to be effective members ofthe global community it is important to havethese experiences so that they can developan understanding of the issues facing peoplebeyond their own home and school andappreciate the way those people think abouttheir world.The Thistle / June 2011 | 2

What is so wonderful about the currentgeneration of Knox boys is their enthusiasticinterest in the world beyond their home, aninterest just as enthusiastically followed up bytheir preparedness to get involved, understandit better and make a contribution.As we head into the second decade of the 21stCentury it is my goal that Knox will furtherbecome a more globally connected organisationto assist our boys to be better informed,confident and contributory world citizens.Mr John W WeeksHeadmasterKnox currently exchangeswith these Schools:• CheongShim InternationalAcademy, Korea• St Albans Cathedral School,Washington, DC USA• Landon School: Bethesda,Maryland, USA• St George’s School,Vancouver, Canada• Collingwood,Vancouver, Canada• Stewart’s Melville School,Edinburgh, Scotland• The Perse School,Cambridge, England• Christ’s College,Christchurch, New Zealand• St Philip The Apostle College,Buenos Aires, Argentina• St Andrew’s College, Somerset Street,Grahamstown, South AfricaAnticipated for 2011-12• St. Andrew’s Senior School,Turi, KenyaPOSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY INSTITUTEThe Thistle / June 2011 | 3

egard to those strengths, structured goalsetting will be developed for each boy,targeting his academic, co-curricular andpersonal goals.The Great Hall and Aquatic Centreis nearing completionIn ConclusionFor each one of you boys, your time hereat Knox is very much a personal journeyfrom dependence to independence and onewhich presents academic, physical, social andemotional challenges and then rewards successwith increased responsibility and status.Your Headmaster, your teachers and yourSchool Council are continually trying to dowhat we can to make that journey rewardingand satisfying. The building program is palpableevidence of our efforts to provide you withtangible benefits.So too are the co-curricular activities I spokeof earlier. The Whole Boy Education Program,although less tangible, is equally important andwill provide a new and higher dimension tothe way Knox boys are educated in the future.Finally, I look forward to seeing you all in theGreat Hall for our 2011 Speech Day. I amcertain that the Hall will be more than half full.Mr Rob WannanChairman, School CouncilTop: The Great Hall will seat up to 2500 in theatrestyle or 1000 spectators when the 1st Basketball teamwelcomes their opposition to the ‘Knox Dome’. Thetimber panelling is state-of-the art and designed tooptimise acoustic performance of the space.Middle: Below the three basketball courts of the GreatHall is a 50 metre, 8 lane heated Olympic swimmingpool which can be divided by the boom to create two25 metre pools. There is also a smaller learn-to-swimpool as well as a fully equipped fitness centre.Left: The entrance to the Great Hall features anAtrium which has an exhibition space and will serveas a function area for up to 250 people.The Thistle / June 2011 | 5

Feedback from our youngest and newest residents‘Boarding is just like living at home,only better.’‘I have made so many new friends inBoarding and I have learnt so much sincearriving. Making a bed is really easy!’‘Becoming a Boarder was the best decisionI have ever made. Where else can you livewith your mates, go jet boating, kayak theHarbour or go to Super 15 games and haveso much fun?’‘I would definitely put my son intoBoarding. It has done so much forme already.’‘At first I was scared about the prospect ofbecoming a Boarder; living away from mumand dad and having to become independent.However, since arriving I have had the besttime of my life. Boarding is something I willnever forget.’‘Boarder’s touch footy – is thereanything better?And from a prospective parent:‘We have heard only great comments aboutKnox’s boarding facilities and academicprogram from the local Hong Kong parentswhose boys are currently studying at Knox.’Team Building through the Power of DrummingOn 17 March, we had an African drummingspectacular where the Male Voice Powerchoir and the Knox Boarding communitycame together for a night of fun. During thefabulous one-hour workshop with Tuza andhis friends from Ghana, they danced, drummedand laughed their way through the show givingall an enjoyable time. Mr James wasn’t aboutto miss out on any of the action either, beingcalled out three times to dance with studentsand teachers. After the workshop had cometo its conclusion, we sat down for an Africandinner consisting of fish, rice and bakedvegetables. Dessert was great; it was a choiceof three types of sorbet. MVP led the Boardersin some final songs accompanied by Tuza andthen everyone, after a fantastic night, departed.It was a great evening and was thoroughlyenjoyed by all.Brandon Kreymborg, Y7 studentThe Thistle / June 2011 | 7

Preparatory SchoolNo Cramp for Knox WritersYear 6 Excursionto CanberraMr John Larkin working with Year 5 boys, from left, James Burns, James Pegg and Toby PatstonJohn Larkin, the author of over 20 booksfor children, teenagers and adults includingSpaghetti Legs, Growing Payne, Goon Town, LarkinAbout in Ireland, and the soon to be releasedThe Shadow Girl, has joined the Knox staff asthe Writer-in-Residence to get the Prep Schoolboys excited about creativity and writing.‘What we’re doing is really starting to have animpact,’ said Mr Larkin. ‘Boys are stopping me in thecorridor and sharing the stories that they’ve writtenover the weekend. Suddenly it’s cool to be a writer.’John is a terrific role model for our boys.Having him at Knox, has given our writingprogram a wonderful balance betweencreative development and teacher directedlearning. Traditionally many boys do not liketo write, however, we felt that if John couldinspire the boys by opening the door to theirimagination and showing them the way heworks and looks at the world, they couldapply that to their writing.‘Students need to take risks and have fun withtheir writing,’ said Larkin, also known to theboys as Mr Larkin Around!Larkin also says, ‘I want students to break outand try things and make mistakes. That’s howthey’ll learn. You can unpick a story to the nthdegree but you won’t find the magic. It’s my job toshow the boys how to create magic of their own.’Since the publication of his first novel SpaghettiLegs in 1992, Larkin has visited countless schoolsas a guest speaker and workshop presenter. Hehas been a regular visitor to Knox but now hisrole has been expanded to Writer-in-Residenceand he couldn’t be happier. ‘Most of the time youvisit a school for a day and it’s full on. You give a talkand then perhaps a workshop for selected students,but you never really get to see what, if any, impactyou have on their writing long term,’ said Mr Larkin.‘Now I can follow the boys’ progress into high schooland beyond. I don’t just want Knox to be a schoolwhere creative writing flourishes, I want it to be“the” school.’John’s interest in spreading the word ofcreative writing doesn’t just stop at hisstudents. He eventually hopes to run weekendworkshops for parents at Knox.Mrs Kathryn MorelliDirector of Teaching and Learning,Knox Preparatory SchoolBlessed with beautiful late summer weatherin February, Year 6 set off for what promisedto be an exciting adventure to our nation’scapital. The boys visited many attractions inCanberra with Questacon, the Australian WarMemorial, CSIRO Discovery, the NationalGallery and the Australian Institute of Sportfeaturing high on the list of most popularplaces. While at Parliament House, the boysparticipated in an engaging and informativerole play. A number of boys dressed in robesto designate their role within the mock Houseof Representatives and then they debated,with great gusto, a bill about homework.While on this tour, the boys participated ina variety of educational programs focusedon Australia’s history, culture, heritageand democracy. The boys also completedworksheets, either during the day or as anactivity before bedtime, detailing informationlearnt from each attraction visited, as well asan evaluation of that particular place.The boys drew praise both for their generalknowledge and their good manners frommany members of the public as well asthe guides at the attractions, which wasextremely pleasing to hear. The excursion toCanberra was a great success and the boyswill hopefully look back on this time in theirlives with happy memories.Mr Dougal ColeYear 6 TeacherThe Thistle / June 2011 | 8

Outdoor Education DayKnox Prep andSt Lucy’s SchoolIn Term 1, Year 3 participated with greatenthusiasm in their annual Outdoor EducationDay. The weather was perfect and the locationat Chowder Bay, Mosman provided many greatchallenges and opportunities for team building.The boys were divided into four groups androtated around four interactive activitiesthroughout the day.One of the highlights of the day was therafting activity where two teams of eight boysdonned life jackets and raced each otheraround the bay, paddling with enormous gusto!Eventually the rafts capsized and the boysenjoyed climbing aboard and jumping off intothe refreshing water.Other activities the boys found very excitingwere the team ball games, the Chowder Baytreasure hunt and of course exploration of theunderground forts at George’s Heights. Theboys’ torches were put to good use examiningthe holding cells and learning about the cannonsthat were used during World War II.The Prep School’s Social Justice vision is forour boys to support the local communityand make a difference to the lives of others.We can achieve this goal by our boys givingtheir time, energy and skills to work withour neighbours and enrich their lives. Inconsultation with St Lucy’s, a Year 6 classvisits on a weekly basis to implement anoutdoor sports program. Throughout theyear all Year 6 boys will have the opportunityto work with the students of St Lucy’s. Thisprogram provides St Lucy’s with sound rolemodels, assists in the delivery of gross motorskills, and helps with the social interactionand communication between students.Feedback from the boys of 6H indicates thatso far this program is most worthwhile:‘Going to St Lucy’s was a wonderful experience, itwas so rewarding for all of us.’ – Connor‘It was exciting to see the smiles on the children’sfaces. They were so happy to see us and they lovedplaying with us.’ – Luca‘It was great to be able to help the students playsport, we are so lucky to be at Knox.’ – HarrisonYear 4 CampOn 24 March I woke up ready for a brandnew day. I looked on my calendar, as I doevery morning, and realised it was Year 4Camp! I was soon on the way to school.After roll call it was time for camp. We weregoing to Point Wolstoncroft. We were goingto get know our friends and teachers better.The trip there was kind of boring but I wasstill very excited.When I got to camp I made my bed, didarchery and rock climbing. For dinner wehad fish and chips. It was the best foodever! After that we played night games.They were fun. We went to bed at 8.30pm.The next day we went canoeing. It was funtoo. When we went to an island we hadone apple each. On the way back I fell outof the canoe and ended up pushing thecanoe. Canoeing was awesome!After that we had free time for one hour.My friends and I started up a game ofequipment tip. It was really fun. The sand feltnice between our toes in the play ground.After lunch we went back to school. It wasthe best camp ever! I will always rememberthat camp!Jonathan Dowse, 4MThe Thistle / June 2011 | 9

Preparatory SchoolKindy at the FarmCo-curricular ClubsWhat a great day Kindergarten had atCalmsley Hill City Farm last term. Not onlydid the boys learn all about sheep, goats, pigs,horses and cattle, they were able to have lotsof hands on experiences with these animalsas well as rabbits, donkeys, camels, chickens,ducks and some native Australian animals. Theywalked through the vegetable garden, milked avery patient cow, saw the stockwhip show andwatched sheep dogs round up the sheep.Mrs Robyn ToppK-2 CoordinatorIn the Movie Making Club the boys have been focusing on storyboarding (breaking down a story into scenes)using the software application ‘2 Create a SuperStory’. The boys have been storyboarding an episode of ‘Shaunthe Sheep’ called ‘The Tree’. They have been having a lot of fun familiarising themselves with the softwareapplication and developing an understanding of the many facets involved in the production of a movie. Havinglearned how to storyboard during Term 1, this term they will be focusing on one of the most important aspects ofmovie making; script writing.Excursion toNarrabeenIn Term 1, Year 2 travelled by bus to Narrabeento observe a wet and dry environment. Firstly,we went beach combing and I was the firstperson to find a dead bird. Secondly, we wentto the rock platform. I found a star fish. Theteacher found an octopus that had beenattacked by a bird; the octopus was squishy.After that we went to look at the map whichwas awesome. Our last activity was birdwatching with binoculars; we saw a pelicanwhich was white as snow. Finally we wenthome. I learnt a lot about sea creatures.Owen Tennant, 2RDuring Term 1 there were many co-curricular activities available for all boys from Kindergarten toYear 6. The types of activities offered were specifically chosen to cater for the diverse interests ofour boys. In many of the clubs there is an emphasis on cooperative learning where members engagein group activities, group discussions and, often, group performance.Each Club is held on one afternoon, after school, each week from 3:05pm to 4:35pm. They havebeen very well attended by the boys and there has been a waiting list to join some clubs.Co-curricular clubs offered during Term 1 included Chess, Latin, Dance, Future Problem Solving,Art K-2, Art 3-6, Movie Making, Multimedia, Languages, Science and Environment, Problem SolvingK-2, Robotics, Drama K-2, Drama 3-6 and Gardening. The clubs will be continuing throughout theyear and we look forward to seeing all boys participate with enthusiasm.Mrs Kathy MorelliDirector of Teaching and Learning,Knox Preparatory SchoolThe Robotics Club includes boysfrom Years 3-6. The early weekswere spent discussing the role ofdesign and building, as well asexploring both models of robotics;RXT and the NXT Lego kits. Thelatter part of the term was spentconcentrating on the programmingside of the kits, with each ofthe students playing to theirstrengths with technology andcoming up with some fantasticbuilt bots which race each otherand use the sensors and motors totheir capacity.The Thistle / June 2011 | 10

What’s Happening in the Classroom?Rising Maths Whizz!Year 7 student Seyoon Ragavan won a BronzeCertificate in the recent Australian MathematicsOlympiad, and as a result was invited to sit the2011 Asian Pacific Mathematics Olympiad, inMarch. He was one of 33 students to representAustralia in this event, and the only Year 7student to do so; nearly all other candidateswere from Years 11 and 12!Furthermore, Seyoon was then invitedby the Australian Mathematical OlympiadCommittee to part of the squad of 25Australian students attending a preparationcamp at Macquarie University during theEaster holidays. These students were vyingfor six places in the Australian MathematicalOlympiad Team which will travel to TheNetherlands in July for the InternationalMathematical Olympiad (IMO); the pinnacleof excellence and achievement for schoolstudents of mathematics throughout the world.Nick Lillywhite (left) leads Fimmo and Mitchell Dewar leads Fonzie from the new cattle stable at InglewoodKnox’s Rural Commitment on Show,and In the ShowAt Knox Grammar School, agricultureis important, and our approach involveseveryone - students and staff, our Old Boys,and our parents. It is no wonder, then, thatthe number of students studying agriculture isgrowing as quickly as a Giant Atlantic!First up, the Year 10 boys prepared two steers,as part of their study of beef production, forthe Royal Easter Show.Fimmo, a Limousin steer was the gift ofAngus Barlow OKG85 of WakemanLimousins Narromine, and Fonzie, a PollHereford steer was the gift of Old Boy andcurrent boarder parent, Tim Capp OKG73of Gresford. Both steers arrived at Knox atthe start of the year, and took up residencein the new cattle stable which was built at‘Inglewood’, the school’s half acre agriculturalplot in Warrawee.The cattle were fed, led and groomed on adaily basis in preparation for the Royal EasterShow, and a team of Year 10 Knox boys spenttheir school holidays at the Show caring for,and exhibiting Fimmo and Fonzie.Fimmo and Fonzie were entered in the Schooland Open Steer and Carcase Championshipwhich involved the cattle being judgedon their live appearance and then theircarcase quality. Once judged the meat wasavailable for the boys to buy through EasternRoad Quality Meats at Turramurra. Thesale is always eagerly awaited by the Knoxcommunity, and by the time you read this, themeat may already be on the plate!This year, we had the extra involvement of BrucePaynter OKG71, past parent and now Knox’stireless representative in the bush, entering hisDevon cattle in the Royal Easter Show.Some of the boys preparing the steers forthe Show were among the twenty-three Year10 Agriculture students who recently visiteddairy and cattle farms in the Gloucester area;whilst there, the boys were lucky enoughto stay and work on the Moppy property ofJames Laurie OKG78 and Ted Laurie OKG81,current boarder parents and Knox Old Boys.In August it will be the turn of thirty Year 9Agriculture students who will visit propertiesin the Moree and North West region,culminating in AgQuip 2011, where againKnox parents, Old Boys and their families willwelcome our students.Fantastic relationships - the sort of thing thebush thrives on and the sort of thing whichmakes Knox Grammar School, the school it is.Mr Ian BrysonHead of AgricultureIt is an incredible achievement for Seyoon tobe invited to sit these challenging exams, whichare usually reserved for Year 12 students. Heacquitted himself well at the training camp,enjoying the camaraderie of students who havea real passion for mathematics and is lookingforward to using the knowledge and skills helearnt in future competitions.Question 4 (below) was Seyoon’s favourite and hewas very proud of his solution4. Determine all functions f defined for non-negative integers andtaking non-negative integers as values such that f (1) > 0 and( f (x) ) 2 + ( f (y) ) 2 = f (x 2 + y 2 ),for all non-negative integers x and y.Mr Michael VuletichHead of MathematicsThe Thistle / June 2011 | 11

Life at KnoxKnox teacher becomes ‘Google Certified’at Google Teacher Academy!Technology at Knox is not about technologyYear 5 students Toby Buchner and Manas Mohandass regularly utilise their laptops and the SMART Board toenhance their learningGoogle selected Mr Michael Beilharzto attend the Google Teacher Academywhich was held in Sydney during theEaster holidays.The Google Teacher Academy is a freeprofessional development experiencedesigned to help K-12 educational leadersget the most from innovative technologies.Each Academy is an intensive, one-day eventwhere participants get hands-on experiencewith Google’s products and technologies,learn about innovative instructionalstrategies, and receive resources to sharewith colleagues. Upon completion, Academyparticipants become Google CertifiedTeachers who share what they learn withother K-12 educators in their local regionsand beyond.Google Certified Teachers are exceptionalK-12 educators with a passion for usinginnovative tools to improve teachingand learning, as well as creative leadersand ambassadors for change. They arerecognised experts and widely admired fortheir commitment to high expectations forstudents, life-long learning and collaboration.This heading may seem like a strange statementcoming from a technology coordinator, buttechnology is not about technology, it isabout learning.Information Communication Technology(ICT) at Knox Grammar School involvesembedding technology into all subject areasand developing students who are innovativecreators and critical users of digital content.Effective integration of technology allowsteachers to combine new methods of contentdelivery alongside established methods ofteaching. It enables students to become part ofthe global community and access informationfrom multiple settings, adding value to theirlearning experience. Technology when used inconjunction with other teaching pedagogies,can enhance students creativity, flexibility,collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinkingand communication skills, as well as, their abilityto construct knowledge in a variety of settings.No longer are students constrained to the fourwalls of the classroom, teaching and learningcan take place ‘anywhere, anytime’.In today’s educational environment manytechnologies are being used to enhancestudent learning. The advent of Web 2.0has encouraged teachers and students todevelop new and innovative ways of learning,developing and assessing tasks. For example,Blogs and Wikis have become prominenttools in education and are being widely usedwithin schools. These powerful learning tools,allow for peer assessment and collaborationin ‘real time’, giving students the opportunityto learn from each other and re-exploretheir own understanding.Knox is developing many innovative ways ofintegrating technology into the curriculum.Science students have been critically thinkingabout science experiments by developingmovies that highlight the key stages of theirpracticals. These have become learning tools forthemselves and for other students. Photoshophas been used to develop 3D images andVoicethread, a collaboration tool that allowsstudents to ‘voice’ their ideas in an onlineshared environment, providing teachers andstudents with immediate auditory feedback,has been used by many departments. UsingMovie Maker, students have produced moviesexplaining the differences between biomes andaudacity has been used to develop podcasts.Technology is allowing the learning landscapeof Knox to broaden. In collaboration with girlsfrom PLC and the Cheongshim School in Korea,Knox students are using Skype and Scholaris(the school’s learning management system) towork on a collaborative project on BuildingRelationships through the Research Process.These are only a few of the technologyrich learning experience students are beingexposed to at Knox.Mr Michael BeilharzICT Teaching and Learning IntegratorThe Thistle / June 2011 | 12

Mock Trial: The Ultimate Law-Related Education ExperienceKnox Grammar School emerged asthe Champions of the NSW LawSociety’s Mock Trial competitionlast December. The competitionwas rigorous and required theteam firstly to get through theround robin competition andthen a knock out competition.The President of the Law Society of NSW,Mary Macken, spoke of ‘the thrill of participatingin a court trial’ when congratulating the teamsfrom Knox and Bega after the NSW state final.Year 12 students, Matt Green, Tom Goldie, Sam Duncan, Matt Yeldham, Mike Crawford, Charlie George and WilliamXi, represented Australia at the American National High School Mock Trial ChampionshipAs a result of this success, the Knox teamrepresented Australia in the National HighSchool Mock Trial Championship (NHSMTC)in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, in May 2011.The NHSMTC is the ultimate law-relatededucation experience for the best andbrightest high school students in theUnited States. The championship provides achallenging opportunity for personal growthand student achievement, while promotingcritical thinking and teamwork skills.The five-day championship was a rigorousweek of advocacy where teams played bothPlaintiff and Defence roles in four preliminaryrounds. During each round, a judge presidedover the trial, while a panel of attorneyevaluators acted as the jury and scoredstudents’ performances. Students wereassessed on their analysis and presentationskills, not on the legal merits of the case.At the conclusion of the preliminary round,the two teams with the best records advancedto the fifth round, the ‘National Championship’or grand final.Involvement at this level in the Mock Trial is asignificant achievement from a talented groupof students, most of whom are consideringLaw as a career.Ms Cecilia BatistaEnglish Teacher and Mock Trial CoordinatorSTOP PRESS - Knox was the first Australianteam to compete at the NHSMTC; theteam won two of its four trials, and SamDuncan received a trophy as one of the tenoutstanding witnesses in the tournament.The team explained...Matt Yeldham – Each member of the teamspecialised in his preferred role. Matt Green,Tom Goldie and I are the attorneys, whileMike Crawford, Sam Duncan, Sean Readingand Charlie George are the witnesses; andWilliam Xi took on both roles. Witnesses haveto be able to handle, often, rigorous crossexaminations,while attorneys have to delivercomplex opening and closing statementscovering all the relevant facts and law.Charlie George – The trial was called D’BahaIndian Tribe v. Intrepid Mining Corporation; theD’Baha tribe was opposed to Intrepid MiningCorporation’s proposed expansion of theiruranium mine, which could have negativeimplications for the D’Baha tribal lands, andmost importantly their sacred waters.Matt Green – In the weeks leading up tothe competition, including throughout theEaster holidays, we had 126 pages of casematerial, which included witness statementsand exhibits, to learn. This was a juggle withschool work and while this may affect ourHSC results, we saw participation in theMock Trial as an incredible opportunity; onewe’ll never have again.William Xi – The competition format inAmerica is different; we had to adapt to acompetition with a larger focus on rhetoric.While the law itself is much the same, itis procedurally very different. There is agreater breadth of technicality along with itssubtleties and niches, but this didn’t mean wechanged how we do mock trial completely;we brought a unique style to the competition!Sam Duncan – Matt Allen was in the originalteam that won the NSW competition, butunfortunately, he was unable to competeoverseas, so I had the privilege of filling inas a Witness. Our coach Tony Iannuzzelli,Ms Batista and the boys were all incrediblyhelpful in showing me the ropes and I hopeI performed well for the team. We went toPhoenix as a strong team, ready to representnot just our school, but also our country.Tom Goldie – Australia has never beforebeen invited to this competition in America,which made this trip an exciting privilege. Asa specialist barrister (attorney) in the team,I loved the presentation and public speakingaspect of the role as well as enjoying the logicexercise involved in grappling with legal issues.Mike Crawford – South Korea was the onlyother international team in the competition,although there were two US territoriescompeting which were well recognised foradvocating sovereignty of American IndianTribes, a key issue being argued in our case.The team always had high performanceexpectations, and our trip to the USA wasno different.Sean Reading – I spent the Easter holidayson an amazing Football tour to Brazil, onethat I will never forget, though it was veryhard to also learn the case materials forMock Trial. It meant that long bus tripsbecame the best opportunities to study.I made the most of the Football tour,returned home for a few days, with loads ofhomework to do, and set out to make themost of the Mock Trial tour to America.The Thistle / June 2011 | 13The Thistle / June 2011 | 13

Life at KnoxCadet Annual CampMembers of C CompanyThe combined Bivouac andAnnual Camp was held at theSingleton Military Area in Areas7, 8, 9 and Vere as well as thePokolbin State Forest from 1-8April. The aim of the camp was toput into practice all the trainingthat the Unit has undergone sincethe beginning of the new cadetyear in Term 4, 2010.For our 250 recruits, this was the first timethey had spent eight days on a camp (as amatter of fact, the first time many of our rankhad spent eight days in the field too due topoor weather in previous years) and our rankwere given the opportunity to practice theirleadership skills in the field.The recruits handled themselves well, andtheir older rank justified their promotion andleadership positions within the School. AlphaCompany managed a different and challengingcamp with great determination and was ableto shoot at the WTSS range, participate in theSchool of Infantry’s obstacle course, undergoa 25km trek, and survive the rigours of moredemanding training. Behind the scenes of theoperation there is a support mechanism inplace that manages to feed, water, and collectgarbage, provide first aid, radio support,administrative and peer support, training atthe confidence course, operational planningand transport. The members of Headquartersand Support Company managed their task in aspectacular fashion.The culmination of the camp saw many of theKnox cadets state it was the best camp thatthey have ever been on. We must congratulateC Company on receiving Company of theCamp, Pioneers who were awarded bestsenior platoon, and 11 Platoon for best recruitplatoon of the camp.It is easy to forget that the Knox Cadet Unitis run by the boys of Knox and their staff andnot an outdoor education provider. For 82years now, the Knox Cadet Unit has beenproviding professional and well structuredtraining at home and in the field. To single outany one cadet or Officer of Cadets for thework that they put into making this camp asuccess would be unjust. From the Acting CO,to the Senior CUO down to the recruits;weeks and months of preparation from allof these people ensured that the camp wasa success. Whether you are a HeadquartersMachine, in Support or A Company, or even aB Company Bear, C Company Chewbacca orD Company Dog, well done!Only 12 months until AFX2012, and theplanning has already started.CAPT(ACC) Phil HennikerHistory Teacher, Adjutant of the Cadet UnitThe Thistle / June 2011 | 14

123 4 561 Some operations cadets after training2 An A Company navex3 The OPSO, Matt Yeldham briefs the D CompanyCommander, Ben Lawley on training4 Emerging from the wombat hole at the Pioneers’confidence course5 The command post (or Zero Alpha) goes mobile6 The Headmaster with SUO James Heap and HQCompany Commander Matt Allen7 Hygiene is important in the field; a foot inspectiontakes place in D Company8 That’s a long way up7 8The Thistle / June 2011 | 15

Social JusticeABBOX Camper with Hamish Smith and Max Turner (right)ABBOX of Fun:The Camp that Makes a Difference!ABBOX of Fun provides a great deal of fun,experiences and new challenges for childrenwith special needs. The children have the timeof their lives with activities which includeinteractions with all kinds of farm animals;a reptile display; swimming; a ‘Master Chef’challenge; a visit from the Police, Fire Brigadeand Ambulance; music; dancing; and lawn bowlswith a difference. This all adds up to four daysof great fun which culminates in a ChristmasParty. The party enables the children towelcome their families to share some of theCamp experiences.Sony Foundation Camps are held in variousschools around Australia, and Knox andAbbotsleigh commenced a special partnershipin 2008 for the ABBOX of Fun Camp. Successfulcamps have been held each December since. Thestudent carers are senior students in each schoolwho, in pairs, have total care of their specialcamper throughout the Camp. Of course Knoxand Abbotsleigh staff are on hand to organise,prepare, support, and listen during the Camp.Students make a formal application toparticipate in the Camp, including submissionof a resume and attendance at an interview.Extensive training then follows. Throughout theyear carers learn about disability, how to carefor, lift and bathe a child with various disabilities.The Camp challenges and transforms ouryoung Knox men; this is a profound experienceof giving of themselves and their compassionatecare for these children with their special gifts.Sam Cameron, one of the 2010 carers, said‘this was one of the most challenging experiencesof my life; I hope I have made a difference. I havelearnt so much and it’s changed me. I am so gladI applied to participate’.Carers Matt Yeldham, Matthew Green andBen Lawley shared their experiences withKnox staff on a recent Staff Developmentday. In each of the presentations by theseyoung men there was a profound sense ofcompassion and insight to their reflectionson the Camp. They shared the joys, challengesand awareness of the realities of families livingwith a child with special needs and this left adeep impression on staff, many of whom weresupervisors at the Camp.In 2011 Knox Grammar School will host theABBOX of Fun Camp in the Knox BoardingCentre. Plans are well underway for the 4-daycamp from 9-13 December. The camperswill have access to the new aquatic centre,Great Hall and related facilities. Carerswill have training provided by projectABLEwith additional training to include guestspeakers from organisations such as ASPECT;physiotherapists and occupational therapistswill further prepare the senior students forthe realities of the Camp.We will need the support of the KnoxCommunity with donations of activity materialsand opportunities, as well as supplies for meals,cleaning and medical needs. Helpers will also beappreciated to supervise medications, preparefood, clean rooms, set up activities and so on. Ifyou are able to help please email Helen Clarkeon clarkeh@knox.nsw.edu.auDaniel Drummond and Matt Green with theirCamper enjoying Mr Sean Ranyard’s HarleyDavidson. Mr Ranyard will be bringing his bike tothe camp again in 2011.Advocates for JusticeThe Knox Social Justice network is now wellestablished with our Community Serviceprogram, our Whole of Life programs forBoarders, our Indigenous program and ourinternational program in Papua New Guinea.Social Justice is an integrated education andadvocacy program across K-12.Each year group in the Prep is responsiblefor an area whether it be Closing the GapPrograms in literacy; working with St Lucy’s;establishing connections with local agedcare facilities; targeting homelessness by theprovision of meals; or developing resourcesfor the classrooms in Milne Bay, Papua NewGuinea or for ABBOX of Fun.The recent disasters in Queensland, Victoriaand Japan have led to a number of appealsin support of the people impacted by thesetragic events. The boys have held gatecollections, an appeal at Six-Event Day, and theKnox Language Department held a culturalday to raise money for the people impacted bythe earthquake and tsunami.Knox has been working on a joint venturewith Ravenswood School to form the firstTeen Variety Board in Australia. A trainingand orientation day was run by Variety tointroduce the team members to the work ofVariety Australia with guest speaker KeeganThe Thistle / June 2011 | 16

Garden Day 2011With Guest Celebrity Gardener,Sandra Ross of the Garden ClinicHundreds of villagers, in wonderful colours, came from surrounding areas for the opening of the Aid Post;the only medical facility in the area.Oh-Chee, who is a current Variety sportsscholarship recipient. A launch of this excitingnew project by Variety Australia will be heldlater in the year.The Papua New Guinea relationship continuesto develop and the Aid Post official opening wasattended by Rev Will Nicholas and Mrs HelenClarke. The Aid Post was donated by Knox andconstructed by the local builders. The annualvisit to Lelehudi, Milne Bay continues this yearas we strengthen our relationship with thiscommunity. The opportunity for our boys toshare their culture in the classroom and beyondis life-changing; the boys’ understanding ofinternational aid based on capacity building andrelationships is embedded in an understandingof the rich culture and joy these localcommunities share with us.The Bishop of the Trobiand Islands withRev Will Nicholas on the veranda of the Aid Postat the official opening.Understanding the needs of those disadvantagedon our doorstep has been again highlighted asthe Year 7s enthusiastically supported STARRTSand Pink Ribbon Day. The more senior boyshave long been ambassadors for White RibbonDay and a Crazy Tie Day was used to raisefunds and build awareness for MOvember.The enormous generosity of the KnoxCommunity led to the donation of thousandsof books, clothing and sports equipment tovarious indigenous communities in CentralAustralia and in western NSW. In additionto our Christmas Gift Hamper Appeal, Knoxboarders, as part of their leadership andmentoring training, spent a day working withthe team at Edward Eager Lodge in Surry Hills,learning about the lives of the residents andserving them a meal.Knox’s involvement in many local, regional andinternational social justice initiatives provideseach boy with an opportunity to see lifethrough the experiences of marginalised groupsin our society, and this experience is matchedby the boys’ compassion and advocacy forthose they encounter on this journey.Mrs Helen ClarkeHead of Christian Studies and Social JusticeFriday 9 September 2011, 10am–2pmSpring! When the gardens of Water Street,Wahroonga burst into glorious splendour.Be inspired by the selection of beautiful,privately owned gardens opened for yourenjoyment, and admire the architecture ofsome of the North Shore’s finest homes.Stroll along the tree lined avenue of thishistoric precinct admiring the significanttrees and discovering more about thelocal history.Relax over morning tea/lunch at StAndrew’s Anglican Church; let the KnoxEnsemble groups and Gallery Choirserenade you and be moved by thestirring renditions of the Knox Pipe Bands.Shop ‘til you drop at the legendary Knoxplant, craft, bakery and gourmet cuisinestalls offering a range of potted plants, finecraft and a delicious selection of freshlybaked cakes and slices, and homemadegourmet cuisine products. Purchase agorgeous bouquet of fresh flowers totake home and be tempted by the arrayof jewellery, handbags, linen, pashminas,giftware, garden ornaments and much,much more.Knox Garden Day is a short five-minutewalk from Wahroonga Station. We will alsooperate a shuttle bus from WahroongaStation and there will be ample parking.Entrance Fee: $18.00 | Concession: $12.00Enquiries: 9487 0122 | www.knox.nsw.edu.auThe Thistle / June 2011 | 17

Above: The Cycle for SMILE route aroundmainland AustraliaLeft: Mr Mike Humphries (left) with the Cycle forSMILE teaman amazing success with Peter FitzSimonsOKG78 as guest speaker and Wes Carrproviding live entertainment.I am amazed at the interest level amongst theboys and parents with boys often asking aboutthe ride and parents emailing/calling and tellingme how their sons are discussing the ride andthe fundraising at home. This really ties in withthe School’s recent developments in socialjustice and encouraging boys to be sociallyaware and compassionate.How do you balance the training withwork, family and friends?It’s a difficult balance when I’m spending up to30 hours a week on a bike; other aspects ofmy life are neglected. My family and friends areincredibly understanding and realise I need tofind time for myself to do the essential thingslike grocery shopping, cleaning and relaxation.What are your expectations?I expect to cycle every kilometre of the15,700km journey around Australia. I want toenjoy the experience and always be mindfulof how lucky I am to be able to do somethingof this nature. I want to be a strong memberof the team who doesn’t complain about howtough it is, or how cold it is. I want this to be apositive experience for everyone involved.Ms Janet NaylonPrint Publications ManagerTraining? Recovery? Diet?Mike Humphries trains five days a week, clocking up between 500 and 700km per weekand 30 hours in the saddle. Saturdays and Sundays involve long rides of up to 200km eachday while during the week he does three rides, one three-hour ride before work and twosix-hour rides after work. He is absolutely committed to riding every kilometre of the15,700km trip around Australia.Mike says he has been lucky and hasn’t experienced any injuries but anticipates making use of thephysiotherapist, who will be travelling with the team during the event, for massage and recovery.He expects there will be a few ice baths as well!While he doesn’t follow any particular diet, Mike says he eats a lot early in the day and enjoysbanana sandwiches while riding. He occasionally uses sports gels and his favourite indulgence ischocolate ice cream.The Thistle / June 2011 | 19

Coming EventsInstrumental Music in the SpotlightKAPA presents some exciting theatricalperformances including Curtains, The SmallPoppies and a surprise end of year spectacular.CurtainsCurtains is a hilarious new comedy musicalfrom the creators of Cabaret and Chicago.Based on the original book, the musical is asend-up of backstage murder mystery plotsset in 1959. Reserve and book your seatsnow at http://www.trybooking.com/OVG forone or more of the following performances:• Friday 3 June 7.30pm• Saturday 4 June 7.30pm• Sunday 5 June 5.00pm• Thursday 9 June 7.30pm• Friday 10 June 7.30pm• Saturday 11 June 2.00pm• Saturday 11 June 7.30pmTickets: Adults $30; Concession $25.The Small PoppiesThe Small Poppies is a play about the firstyear of school and is set in Australiaduring the 1980s. Students presenta variety of contemporary issues in achallenging but entertaining blend ofacting, music, dance, dramatic movementand production design. The Small Poppiesis an innovative and exciting performanceexperience and will involve students fromKnox and Abbotsleigh. It will be playing on:• Friday 9 September• Saturday 10 September• Sunday 11 SeptemberThe Symphonic Wind EnsembleStarting off this year with theAnnual Music Camp was like aninjection of performance adrenalinefor our instrumental musicians.The instrumentalists struck a chord with theeagerly awaited Camp which was held on thelast weekend of January for 109 boys in theKnox Symphony Orchestra (KSO), SymphonicWind Ensemble (SWE), Chamber Strings andConcert Band. The opportunities for teambuilding and for the boys to enjoy a musicaland social program were endless ahead of ahectic Term 1 schedule.Knox At Home on Friday 18 Februaryprovided the Symphonic Wind Ensemblea terrific opportunity to air some of thenew 2011 repertoire on a tremendouspurpose built outdoor stage complete withprofessional sound and lighting.The Year 7 Wind Band Workshop wasessentially a mini Music Camp for our Year 7Knox woodwind, brass, and percussion studentsin the newly formed Year 7 Wind Band. Duringthe day the boys enjoyed a most comprehensivemusical experience, covering a wealth ofmaterial within a consolidated period of time.The Big Band Boys were hitting the high noteswith an outstanding lunchtime concert in theAmphitheatre on Wednesday 9 March. Openingwith In the Stone made famous by Earth Windand Fire, the Knox Big Band performed a diverserange of tunes such as In the Mood, Vehicle, ZootSuit Riot, concluding with Count Bubba’s Revenge,a most exciting and dynamic chart which is alsoa signature tune for the world famous GordonGoodwin’s Big PHAT Band.The Symphonic Wind Ensemble performedtheir exhilarating 2011 Australian NationalChampionships Tour Program ‘LIVE’, for ourhometown audience, ahead of the Adelaide trek.This brilliant evening was recorded; the CD maybe purchased from KAPA.Competing in the premiere Junior A Gradedivision at the National Band Championships,SWE performed for approximately 50 minutesand presented four pieces, Liturgical Dances(Test Piece), Ave Maria (Hymn Selection), TinTin: Prisoner of the Sun (Own Choice MajorWork), and Army of the Nile (March). SWE wasawarded a staggering 479/500 and brought homea number of trophies as the 2011 AustralianNational Junior A Grade Champion ConcertBand; an achievement that has not been attainedby any other single school based band.The adjudicator, Major Graham Lloyd, describedthe performance as, “A stunning rendition of atremendously written work. Solid, exciting – theadjectives can go on.”In the months ahead there are performancesin the Sydney Eisteddfod, Dickson’s YamahaBand Festival, meet the Symphony Orchestraconcerts, and of course the opening of theGreat Hall.Mr James BriceDirector of Instrumental PerformanceThe Thistle / June 2011 | 20

Why Should Boys Sing?‘The only thing better thansinging is more singing.’– Ella FitzgeraldThe Gallery ChoirWith the average boy being so busy with sport,study and modern life, why should we find timefor him to sing? Singing is good for you andsinging along is good for the globe (the AAryaFoundation). It builds peace and understandingamong people. We are hardwired to makemusic and according to neurologists singing inchoirs is the most natural way to make music.‘...singing is like running to the brain – it facilitatesbilateral stimulation and whole-brain integration’says Barry MacDonald, clinical counsellorand author of Boy Smarts – Mentoring Boysfor Success at School. Singing has tremendousbenefits to a child’s intellectual, emotional,physical and spiritual development.Studies have shown that young people whosing in choirs…• Do better in their school studies, especiallyin mathematics,• Develop personal confidence andovercome shyness when speaking in public,• Have a tendency to be healthier,• If ESL, they learn the language more swiftly,• Make lasting friendships,• Learn to work as a team, and• Report increased levels of happiness.Rich Choral MusicOpportunities at KnoxWith the many benefits of singing weare making sure boys at Knox have theopportunity to sing in a variety of contexts,with a focus on achieving and having fun.Through assemblies, chapel services, musicalsand age appropriate choirs, boys can singvarious styles of music ranging from Handelthrough to contemporary pop music.Knox Prep School Choirs include: K-2Choir, Year 3 Choir, Year 4 Choir and a nonauditioned4-6 Senior Choir. Knox SeniorSchool Choirs include: Gallery Choir, Kappella,Male Voice Power (MVP) and Voice Male. In2011 music joined sport at the Knox Gala Day.While the camaraderie of a male choir is likethat of a sports team, singing should not beinstead of sports, but it should be part of themulti-dimensional 21st Century Knox man.Recent Choral Successes• The Prep School Senior Choir sang at theCity Recital Hall in Angel Place as part ofthe 2011 IPSHA Music festival. The boysperformed as a choir and participated withsix other schools singing a mass choir item.• A new Chapel program in 2011 hasenabled more focus on singing in theSchool’s Services. The breakdown ofChapel into smaller year group sizes hasmeant that in Term 1, Year 7 was ableto gain an insight into the traditionalformat of services with traditional music,while Years 9 and 10 were able to enjoya contemporary service format with arange of popular songs with a Christianfocus. Many of this year’s PreparatorySchool Chapel services will be held in theKnox Chapel and this has already provedMike Brewer OBE with members of the Gallery Choirworthwhile with senior boys singing for theyounger boys, which allows for beneficialchoral collaboration across K-12.• At Harmony Day celebrations MaleVoice Power Choir joined the Boardersfor team building through drumming.This new initiative was so powerful thatthese 200 boys were invited to sharetheir songs and rhythms with the Knoxcommunity at the opening of the wintersports season on Gala Day.• In Term 1 members of Kappella andthe Gallery Choir enjoyed an intensiveworkshop with leading choral conductorMike Brewer OBE, who is the musicaldirector of the National Youth Choirs ofGreat Britain, and in Term 2 boys in theMale Voice Power Choir will undertake asong writing workshop with Sean Peter,who has worked as a sound designer, soundengineer, and composer/lyricist for many ofAustralia’s leading arts companies includingCompany B and the Sydney SymphonyOrchestra.It is our goal for everyone in the Knoxcommunity to find their voices and enjoy thebenefits of singing.Mrs Pip Waters, Mrs Erzsi Marosszeky,Mrs Karen Bruce and Mr Ashley GeorgeK-12 Choral TeamThe Thistle / June 2011 | 21

KNOX ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTSBugsy: A Pie in the FaceSam SuleymanA ‘pie-eyed’ castBugsy Malone was best known for launchingthe acting careers of Jodie Foster and ScottBaio, until the KAPA production came along.The film, with songs by Paul Williams and scriptby Alan Parker was adapted by him especiallyfor schools. The basic premise is that the realgangsters of 1929 are played by young people,and yes there is a moral to the story. The finale,We could have been anything we wanted to be,reminds us all that we have choices to make.Directors Kerry Woods and Karen Brucechose their cast wisely. Alex Landsberry hadall the charisma Bugsy needs. William Gulsonas Fat Sam has the loudest voice heard in theDrama Centre in recent years. Johnathon Choused a dazzling array of accents and JasperDweck revealed considerable comic ability.The singing was of a high standard and a greatcredit to Karen Bruce’s vocal coaching. Specialmention goes to Sam Suleyman’s movingrendition of Tomorrow.Adam Lindberg turned the Drama Centre intoa nightclub with tables and chairs, garish lightingand a bevy of beauties including Josi Ellem asBlousey Brown, Bridget Haberecht as Tallulah(the Jodie Foster role), Carla and Melody vander Wallen, and a mysterious woman in fishnetstockings who never said a word. There weregangsters a plenty from Leo Turner’s DandyDan to Ian Powell (Cagey Joe), Jordan Forster(Leroy) and Sam Bunt (Doodle).The pit orchestra was sensational withWilliam Charalambous, Thomas Spencer,Charles Freeman and Jacob van Egmond ablysupported by Mr Andrew Chessher and MrJames Brice. They played as the speakeasycustomers arrived and played us out again togreat applause.The singing was of a highstandard and a great credit toKaren Bruce’s vocal coaching.Head of KAPA and producer, Mr CharlesHambling said he had never seen a cast makesuch colossal leaps forward in the course of arun. High praise indeed for the Junior Musicalcast and crew.Kerry Woods has contributed to Knox musicalsand dance for so long now it is easy to take herexcellent work for granted. Her ability to buildthe confidence of students, who were singing,dancing and acting on stage for the very firsttime, is a testament to her skill.The film used 1000 custard pies and 100gallons of synthetic cream; Knox used shavingcream and sticky string cleaned up by thestage crew and cast every night – a super piefight to leave the audience smiling.Ms Wendy BuswellDrama TeacherJasper Dweck has been ‘shot’Gangsters take a breakAlexander Landsberry as BugsyThe Thistle / June 2011 | 22

KNOX SPORTS ACADEMYAFL comes to KnoxKnox U14 AFL TeamKnox played its first Saturday AFL competition games on Saturday 9April 2011. This is a significant step with rugby union the dominantwinter sport for nearly 90 years, and is yet another exciting initiativein ensuring Knox students are provided with opportunities andpathways in sports of their choice. It is part of the Knox SportsAcademy’s role to deliver a sport program for all students and ensurethat they enjoy and develop in sports and activities that, wherepossible, they would like to be involved in, which is why we arethrilled to see AFL come to Knox! The school has entered two teamsin the Central Coast Junior Competition on Saturdays; an Under 12team from the Preparatory School and an Under 14 team from theSenior School.For a number of years now, Knox Preparatory School has been enteringteams in the Paul Kelly Cup with considerable success. In addition,at both senior and preparatory level, Knox has entered teams in theSpring Challenge Cup. These competitions have provided Knox with theopportunity to allow students to experience AFL, albeit it in a limitedway. The new Saturday competition will allow students to experienceAFL as a full Saturday sport and all that that entails.Both the NSW AFL and the Central Coast AFL have been verysupportive in ensuring our inclusion in the competition, and that itprovides a worthwhile opportunity for the students involved.The U12 AFL team played extremely well in their first match, competingfor all contests and working hard as a team. Goal kickers for Knox wereCharlie Forsberg, Harrison White and Ben White. The team scored 3-4-22 losing to Killarney Vale 11-8-74.The U14 team has many players who play AFL in the club system.In an outstanding effort, they won their first game by 49 points. TheU14s team work, willingness to get numbers around the ball andoverhead marking was outstanding for the first game of the year.Knox 10-10-70 defeated Killarney Vale 3-3-21; goal kickers for Knoxwere Lachlan Swinton 4, Jake Veale 3, Max Barnum 1, Tom Forsberg 1,and Connor McFadden 1.Above: Knox U12 AFL TeamBelow: Paul Roos, Head of the Swans’ Academy, with the U12 and U14 AFL teamson Gillespie Fields , and yes they are goal posts with no crossbar in the background!The AFL program is one of several new sports and activities to beintroduced at Knox in 2011; stay tuned for the announcement of thenext new sport! Knox continues to evaluate and assess the needsof its students and community and is extending the choices andoptions available for all students on their journey whilst at school. Weacknowledge the wide variety of talents and interests of our studentsand aim to ensure that the sporting experience is one of learning,challenge, enjoyment and fulfilment.Knox continues to evaluate and assess the needs ofits students and community and is extending thechoices and options available for all students ontheir journey whilst at school.All sports at Knox, whether they are large team sports, or smallerindividual sports, are catered for with an emphasis on ‘team’.The bonds, teamwork and memories that are formed continue inindividual sports in the same manner that they do in the largerteam sports. Swimming and Track and Field are just two examplesof individual sports which have a Knox emphasis on team. Thisteam emphasis has provided the tradition and results that Knox hasachieved over the years.Mr Chuck ArdronHead of the Knox Sports AcademyThe Thistle / June 2011 | 23

KNOX SPORTS ACADEMY10 Years: One Family’s Commitment to Cricket at KnoxDuring the past ten summers, there has been aconstant at 1st XI cricket games; the CrawfordFamily. Since the summer of 2001-02 whenPeter Crawford (2001-04) made his debut,there has been at least one Crawford in theteam each Saturday. Since that time Robert(2003-06), David (2005-09) and Tom (2009-11) have represented the school in the 1st XICricket Team. Both Robert (2005-06) and David(2008-09) captained their respective teams intheir final year of schooling. The main legacythe Crawford boys will leave the Knox cricketprogram, is their ability to be team players;they all put the team before their own needs,showing dedication and spirit at all times.Father, Phil, and mother, Jan, have also made asignificant contribution to cricket at Knox. Philhas been a past President and Vice President ofthe Knox Cricket Supporters Committee, whileJan has been on the committee as well duringthat time period. The Crawford’s calm influence,support for the team and efforts each Saturday,will be sorely missed at the 1st XI games.The culmination of the cricket season onSaturday 5 March saw the 1st XI and 2ndXI teams remain undefeated to win theirrespective premierships. This has been thefourth consecutive year in which the 1st XI and2nd XI have won the CAS premiership. The 1stXI became the first team in CAS history to winthe Archer Shield four seasons in a row. Thiseffort followed a gruelling pre-season, whichstarted in August, trial games in September/October, then a highly enjoyable tour toAdelaide in January 2011. The 1st XI Captain,Christopher Green, topped off the season bybeing selected in the NSW Schoolboys CricketTeam, to play Queensland. He was the secondleading wicket taker at the Schoolboys Carnival,as well as captaining the CAS team.The Crawford familyThe Knox Cricket Program has some excitingthings ahead with a tour to the UK in the mid-yearbreak for 27 players making up a developmentteam and senior team; tour to Toowoomba inJanuary 2012 to compete in the Annual CricketFestival; as well as the continuation of the specialistbatting sessions, generously supported by theparents’ committee.Mr Gavan TwinningMIC CricketIn BriefLed by Diving Captain, Sam Duncan (Y12)the Knox Diving Team won the CAS DivingChampionships held at Sydney OlympicPark Aquatic Centre on 10 March 2011.This is the third time that Knox has wonthe Championships in the last six years.Some outstanding performances wererecorded at the National Junior Trackand Field Championships in March. ScottMacLennan threw a 2 metre personal bestto place 5th in the Under 18 Javelin. He alsoplaced 6th in the U18 Discus with 44.68m.Will North ran brilliantly for 5th in the U152000m Steeplechase in 7:07.86 minutes and11th in the 3000m. Ryan Boot (U15 200mHurdles) and Sam Coburn (U14 1500m)both placed 7th while Jack McArdle was 9thin the U16 100m hurdles.Year 11 student and talented 1500m runner,Josh Davies had a dream run last summer,winning the U18 1500m at the Hunter TrackClassic and the NSW State Junior Track andField Championships. He then stepped up toopen racing at the Allcomers and WaratahSeries meets and has gone from a personalbest of just over 4 minutes to 3 minutes 52.9seconds for the metric mile; he was placed10th at Nationals.Bailey Simonsson (Y7) gained selection inthe NSW Little Athletics State Team 2011. Atthe National Championshipshe placed 6th inthe 80m hurdles and high jump, and 13th inthe triple jump.Michael Rowley (Y11) was a member ofthe NSW Metro team which won the goldmedal at the Under 18 National BasketballChampionships. He has also gained selectionin the NSW Under 18 Basketball Team.Simon Bold (Y8) had a very successfultwo days at the Victorian State ArcheryChampionships. In the Under 15division, Simon won gold and broke fivechampionship records including the highestscore at the Championships.Lachlan Mayo (Y9) played for the U16 ACTBaseball team as a ‘friendship’ player atthe National tournament held in Lismorein the Easter holidays, and in June he willparticipate in the invitational USA Baseballtour with the Australian Southern Stars.The Knox Swim Team came second in agreat CAS competition with the gap closing;Knox 488 to Trinity’s 511 points. Knoxswimmers broke six records with BenjaminWhiteley (Y11), Callum Mackay (Y8) andSam Ritchens (Y7) breaking individualrecords and Marco van Westing, Benjamin,Lachlan Mackay and James Stanwell breakingthe 17 years 4 x 50m freestyle record andMark Westerway, Sam Ritchens, Seb Joubertand William Yang breaking the 13 years 4 x50m freestyle record.Michael Docker (Y10) won two gold medalsin the U17 200m sprint and U17 Team sprintat the National Cycling ChampionshipsThe Thistle / June 2011 | 24

AdieuMr AW Mitchell at Knox: Teacher, Mentor and Friendscience, and because Bill had little interestin organised sport he was given the task oforganising the book room.Vic Green, Des Levander, Viv Francis and Billwere the only teachers to continue through theKnox crisis in 1955. As Bill put it, “Loyalty to theSchool was our priority, there was a job to be done,and we had no time for scheming and gossip”.When Dr McKenzie arrived at Knox in 1956 heleaned very heavily on these four men; men ofintegrity, sense of balance and fair play.There are only a handful ofpeople who come into your worldand touch your life in a dramaticfashion. Some of the people arejust flickers of light during a longlife, while others are a consistentglow for years.For me, Mr Mitchell was aconsistent glow – a very goodteacher, mentor and friend forover 50 years.Andrew William Mitchell came to Knox in 1946at Dr Bryden’s request to teach Physics andChemistry. Known as Andrew (or Andy) in theforties and fifties, somehow the family name ofBill found its way into Knox in the early sixties– not something he was totally comfortablewith. He was always Mr Mitchell to me. He alsovery quickly gained the nickname ‘Maggots’;not a pleasant or endearing name until youunderstand that Bill was giving a practicallesson in zoology and was explaining howmaggots were used in World War 1 to clearup badly infected and gangrenous wounds. Billdid not seem to be offended in any way by thisnickname, seemingly accepting it with some pride.During 1947-52 Bill conducted his owncoaching school, but in 1952 Dr Brydenpersuaded him to return to Knox to teachBill had a passion for his subject and inspiredhis pupils to share that enthusiasm, regularlytaking lessons out of the classroom and usingillustrations from his wide store of experiences.He was certainly serious in his approach toteaching but at the same time could be a bitlight hearted and there were often momentsof humour, referring to us students as ‘dog’sbody’ or ‘goat’s breath’. He used a numberof appropriate sayings when someone wasnot paying attention, one quickly comes tomind, “empty vessels make the most sound,MacPherson”. I never heard him raise his voiceor hand out harsh punishment.Bill was also a very talented musician. He playedthe viola in the early Knox orchestra led byMr Hunter-Blair in the forties, the WilloughbySymphony Orchestra, and later, in a number ofKnox musicals.All who were at the School during his last 47years will well remember his passionate feelingsfor his Ford Anglia, kept in perfect mechanicalorder by Bill himself. The Anglia becamesynonymous with Bill, even though he alsopossessed a, occasionally sighted, Packard.Bill retired from teaching in 1973 but stayedon as Director of the Book Room in both thePrep and Senior Schools. Always conscious ofthe cost of books to the parent Bill would nothesitate to suggest to a young teacher that here-think the necessity of purchasing a particularbook if Bill could not see the value.In 1999, after 52 years of service to Knox,including 47 years operating the book room,Bill’s final day had come, and he closed thedoor behind him. He had served under fiveHeadmasters, Bryden, Couper, McKenzie,Paterson and Crawley, a situation unique inKnox history.The wild ones, Bill Mitchell (left) and Ross Dinnell setout on Ross’ Harley for one of Bill’s later birthdaysIn recognition of the exceptional service Billhad given Knox, Headmaster Mr Peter Crawleyaccorded him the title of Emeritus SeniorMaster and presented him with a speciallymade plaque bearing the Knox crest in front ofthe whole school.An institution at Knox, he was made a SpecialMember of the Old Knox Grammarians’Association, was a keen and valued member ofthe Senior Knoxonians, and was invited to manyOKG reunions. In 2005 Bill was guest of honourat the 50 years reunion of the 1955 leavers, andfor the first time he asked if it would be possibleto be picked up and driven home.It was about this time when Bill let the Angliago – its constant care had become too much.Not long after with deteriorating health hestopped driving, and told me with great pridethat he had handed in his license.Although getting more fragile with time, Billnever lost his love for and interest in Knox,constantly asking visitors about the School,teachers and others who were at the Schoolin his time.It is certain that the name of Andrew WilliamMitchell, his character and achievements, willalways be remembered with respect andaffection – he earned respect by his notableachievements and high standing as a schoolmaster, and affection by his kindness andcheerfulness.Mr Ian Macpherson OKG55The Thistle / June 2011 | 25

Old Knox GrammariansPresident’s ColumnValues, Vision and MissionThe OKGA Strategic Plan states the followingas our values, vision and mission:Values – Support the values of the School,in particular:• The development of the whole student;• Achievement of high standards ofeducation and sporting excellence;• Maintenance of Christian values; and• Assist the development of Old Boys andstudents as they progress through theiracademic and professional life.Vision – To establish a highly committed teamof Old Boys who have a common interest in:• Encouraging all Old Boys to be involvedin our activities and ensure a continuousactive participation of new members, aswell as parents of Old Boys;• Maintaining and developing a continuousrelationship between members;• Assisting each other in their ongoingcareer endeavours; and• Providing assistance for current students inthe development of their professional career.Mission‘To promote and foster the interest of OldBoys and students of the School by providingassistance through the vast network ofcontacts and experience of members and theprudent investment and expenditure of fundsheld by the Association’.To implement the Strategic Plan, thecommittee have broken up key areas whichwill be chaired by specific members:School Liaison:Michael Kelynack OKG85The Old Knox Grammarians’ Associationis an integral part of the school communityand continues to enjoy a strong workingrelationship with the school. We can realiseall of our objectives by assisting the schoolto achieve its long term goals by supportingits philosophies of faith, wisdom, integrityand compassion and by being visible in ourcommitment. These activities are:• Anzac Day• Honouring Parade• OKGA Confirmation Service• Senior and Junior Most Improved Awards• Supporting regional and interstatedinners and expos• Scholarships• Providing sporting coaches• Supporting Rugby and Football matches• School Easter and Christmas services• Support with the school data base• Assistance with the foundation andfinancial support• Gala Day• Thistle• Prep School and Senior School Speech DaysFunctions and Events:Sandra WhiteSandra has made good contacts with old boysin Year Groups as well as interstate, regionaland overseas in her former role. She will setabout re-establishing those contacts. She hasalso maintained contact with a number ofmembers of the Senior Knoxonians.Sandra has two sons who are old boys and astrong connection with the Rugby Club. Whileworking with the Archivist this allows her theability to access members to ascertain anddevelop new initiatives in accordance withtheir requests.Sandra was an active member of The PastParents committee when it was first formed.She will be contacting the Executive with theview to working closely with them.Affiliated Groups:Jack Shute OKG60Jack Shute is responsible for guiding thefuture development of affiliated groups. Theportfolio covers all the sporting activities ofthe OKGA including Rugby, Football, Cricket,Basketball, Squash and the Old Boys PipeBand. All of these activities give positiveexposure to both the school and OKGA.We will measure funds used to sponsorOKGA affiliated groups against participatingnumbers. Our aim is to motivate those whoparticipate in these activities to embrace theOKGA in its broader objectives and activitiesand keep them connected in life after school.Finance:Mark Wilson OKG80The Finance Committee’s focus is toreview the expenditure of the OKGA andthe demands on its funds, in particular thescholarship support, the support for Old Boysporting clubs, and support to the school. Toenhance the support, the OKGA needs tobroaden its revenue base, and the Committeeis currently exploring ways to gain new fundsin both the new OKGA Scholarship Fundwhich has Tax Deductible Gift RecipientStatus, and the current OKGA EndowmentFund. We are also examining some usefulproducts which can provide members withadditional benefits and provide the Associationwith additional revenue.Networking:Jon Bonwick OKG93The OKGA have provided fantasticnetworking opportunities for many decades.Over the past six months the OKGA havesurveyed many members and developed aThe Thistle / June 2011 | 26

five year strategic plan that encompassesnetworking and mentoring. In the next 12+months the OKGA endeavour to formaliseactivities and procedures that will benefitall members. This will include NetworkingBreakfasts, establish a career advice networkfor all ages that is industry specific, assistmembers facing hardship and listen to otherneeds and requirements. We are now verykeen to hear from members who are willingto assist in these areas.History:Tony Osman OKG57The Portfolio of OKGA History, Archivesand Prominent Knoxonians is under theChairmanship of Tony Osman, Hon OKGAHistorian, with a band of volunteers includingEdric Chaffer, John Turnbull, Bruce Kennedyand others. The aim of this sub-committee isto ensure the ongoing recording of peopleand events relating to the Old Boys and theiractivities. The major aim is to prepare for thecentenary History of the OKGA (1929-2029)and to this end the period since the SeventyYears History (1929-99) is being researched inten-year tranches collecting basic data such ascommittee members, copies of Minutes, AGMreports, photos and reminiscences of Patronsand Presidents and so on. Anyone who wishesto assist with this most worthy cause withresearch, donation/collation of material andthe like is welcome.Database and Membership:Rob Tulloch OKG75, Vice PresidentThe goals of the Data Base and MembershipRecords sub-committee for the coming year are;1. Work with the other sub-committees toestablish their information needs.2. Review the platform that our datacurrently resides on, compare this toalternate platforms and assess functionality.3. Develop systems and procedures that willhelp make our data as accurate and reliableas possible with a strong emphasis on thecurrency of the data.4. Review our policy and procedures inrespect of privacy and security of our data.‘To promote and foster theinterest of Old Boys andstudents of the School byproviding assistance throughthe vast network of contactsand experience of members andthe prudent investment andexpenditure of funds held bythe Association’.Communication:Phillip Henniker OKG03Phillip Henniker is responsible for guiding thefuture development of communications forthe OKGA. His main objective is to implementthe strategic plan in relation to the OKGAwebsite and all other key areas of impartingrelevant information to our constituents.Michael Kelynack OKG 8525th President of the OKGAIn this Section26 President’s Report28 OKGA Most Improved Awards28 Senior Knoxonians29 Profiles31 OKG Sport32 News of Old BoysThe OKG section of The Thistle wasprepared by the OKGA Committee.Australia DayHonoursWe congratulate the following Old KnoxGrammarians on being honoured in theAustralia Day Honours List 2011.Sam (Sydney) Ure-Smith OAM,OKG40Sam (Sydney) Ure-Smith received theMedal for the Order of Australia (OAM)for services to the development andpromotion of art publishing in Australia.Charles Lloyd-Jones OAM, OKG4385-year-old, Charles Lloyd-Jones receivedthe Medal of the Order of Australia(OAM) in the General Division in theAustralia Day honours list for service tothe Port Macquarie community and to theSalvation Army.Since 1998, he has supported people incourt and their families as a volunteerSalvation Army court chaplain at PortMacquarie and Kempsey. Mr Lloyd-Jonesregularly makes the 123km round tripbetween Port Macquarie and the jail. Healso provides links to Salvation Armyrehabilitation services for drugsand alcohol.Rev Dr RR Clifford AM, OKG68Rev Dr RR Clifford received the award,Member (AM) of the Order of Australia,for services to the Baptist Union ofAustralia for religious education and tothe promotion of interfaith dialogue andChristian media.The Thistle / June 2011 | 27

OLD KNOX GRAMMARIANSOKGA Most Improved AwardsAbove: Year 12 recipients of the Most Improved Award included Nicholas Lamberton, Stuart Neal, MartinAllen, Matthew Galbraith and Edward Shaw; they are pictured with Edward Bangs OKG05 (left)and Robert Tulloch OKG75Below: Summer sport Most Improved Award recipientsSenior KnoxoniansThe Senior Knoxonians held a most successfulluncheon on 16 March 2011 at the School.The guest speaker was Mark Hemphill, Headof the Knox Preparatory School, who sharedwith us some of his past experiences and hisaspirations for the future developments ineducation at the Prep School.Mark emphasised the excellent facilitiesalready existing at the Knox PreparatorySchool and how they were endeavouring tofurther improve them and to assist in thedevelopment of young people with a wellroundededucation with the objective ofimparting the ideals of faith, wisdom, integrityand compassion into young people.A vote of thanks was proposed by MarsdenHordern OKG39 who had commenced hisschooling at Knox in 1929 in the then newlyacquired Ewan House.Edric Chaffer OKG50President, Senior KnoxoniansThe Thistle / June 2011 | 28

From the Opera House to the WorldMathisha Panagoda OKG04 attended Knoxfrom Years 7-12 on a Jubilee Music Scholarship.Since leaving Knox Mathisha has completeda Bachelor of Music (Honours) at the SydneyConservatorium of Music and is in the finalyear of a Juris Doctor degree in Law at SydneyUniversity. During his time at Knox he was amember of the Knox Symphony Orchestra,KAYO and Symphonic Wind Ensembletravelling on two international tours under thedirection of Brian Buggy.Mathisha began playing the cello aged four andhas been playing in orchestras from a youngage including the Sydney Youth Orchestra andSBS Television and Radio Youth Orchestrafor five years, touring Europe and Asia withthem. After graduating from Knox, Mathishaperformed for six years with the AustralianYouth Orchestra with whom he participatedon two world tours. Having spent much timeoverseas, Mathisha was one of four Australiansto perform at the Pacific Music Festival inJapan and was selected as the only Australianmember of the newly formed AldeburghStrings, a small chamber orchestra basedin Suffolk, UK, comprised of 24 musiciansselected from around the world.Mathisha held a Symphony Australia NationalFellowship in 2010 and since 2007 has workedwith the Queensland, Melbourne, Adelaide andTasmanian Symphony Orchestras as well asthe Sydney Sinfonia.During his time at The Con, Mathisha wasawarded numerous scholarships and awardsincluding the BBM Ltd Scholarship to undertakestudies in London and an arts grant from theUniversity of Sydney Union which he used toestablish his own orchestra, Sydney Camerata.From almost 3000 applicants around the world,Mathisha was selected as a winner in the 2011YouTube Symphony Orchestra. In doing so heuploaded an audition video onto YouTube, passedthe first round judged by an international panelof leading orchestral musicians from the LondonSymphony Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic andSydney Symphony. The second round was thenopen for public vote with winners announcedin early January. The orchestra is comprised of101 musicians representing 30 countries andMathisha is one of four Australians and the onlymusician selected from Sydney. Qantas flew theorchestra to Sydney to meet, rehearse and giveperformances culminating in a Grand FinaleConcert at the Sydney Opera House on20 March 2011 under the direction of renownedAmerican conductor Michael Tilson Thomas. Thisconcert was streamed live around the world onYouTube to an estimated audience of around 25million people. You can follow Mathisha’s journeywith the YouTube Symphony on the orchestra’swebsite and his YouTube Channel.From Knox to OxfordIt is a very audacious thing to even applyfor a Rhodes Scholarship and, in truth, Inever thought that my application would besuccessful. That it was, has led me to reflectupon the truly excellent education I receivedfrom my teachers at Knox and the AustralianNational University. This success belongs asmuch to them, as it does to me.At Knox I was taught to think for myself,which is probably the greatest gift anyschool can impart to its students. Also,through the patience of the sports masters,and particularly Mr Stringer’s rather sterntutelage during what was then called ‘SeniorWeights and Training,’ I managed to makeenough of my meagre athletic gifts to becomea passable and enthusiastic endurance runnerand triathlete at University.My undergraduate studies at ANU were inpolitical science, focusing upon AustralianIndigenous affairs. This focus was motivated bythe experience of regularly visiting the remotecommunity of Doomadgee, in the Gulf ofCarpentaria. For this incredible opportunity,I remain immensely grateful to my generousfriends in Doomadgee.At ANU I was lucky to encounter a numberof inspiring academic mentors, includingDr William Sanders OKG74. The summerscholarship I spent under Will’s supervision,at ANU’s Centre for Aboriginal EconomicPolicy Research, was critical in my decisionto write my Honours thesis on Indigenouspublic policy. Only later, when Will washelping me with scholarship applications, didwe realise that we had both attended Knox.After Honours, I was encouraged to pursueoverseas study as an opportunity to gainfresh and international perspectives on theissues I had studied in Australia. The RhodesScholarship has given me this opportunity.I am very excited to be going to Oxfordin October to study an MPhil (Politics) inComparative Government. I am also humbledand deeply honoured to join the communityof Rhodes Scholars.Michael Jones OKG04The Thistle / June 2011 | 29

OLD KNOX GRAMMARIANSThe Olive OverlordIn the aftermath of the HSC and schoolies,suffering, like many of my peers, from themental and physical exhaustion the precedingmonths had inflicted and the constant naggingof my mother to vacate the couch, I beganwork on my newly acquired business while therest of my cohort partied on into the New Year.Over the past three years, I have beenrunning Darling Mills Marinated Olives withmuch success, thanks to the longstandingpatronage built up over the previous 11 yearsand to newly acquired customers whosetaste buds the marinades have excited at thevarious growers’ markets.Its continued success is largely due to the twooriginal products, masterfully conceived by myaunt, chef Cynthia Black (nee Adey). The MixedMarinated Olives and Cornichons (with fennel,chilli and lemon) was developed during theearly years of Darling Mills Restaurant (1989-2003) and became a signature appetiser on thebar menu. The Marinated Olives stuffed withpimento (in a marinade of cumin, corianderand orange), an earthy yet sweet marinade, wasdeveloped specifically for the markets, and hasbeen satisfying pit-haters for over a decade.I am a firm believer in tradition, heritage andhistory when it comes to food; why altersomething that’s already good? Just build on it.Over the past three years I have madeDarling Mills Marinated Olives my own,keeping patrons’ palettes interested by theintroduction of three new products: theMarinated Cornichons, Marinated KalamataOlives and Marinated Olives (with harissa andpreserved lemon) developed and inspired bymy gastronomic adventures in Europe andNorth Africa during 2010-2011.Since completing my Bachelor of PublicCommunication at UTS in 2010, I havecontinued my efforts to expand Darling MillsMarinated Olives: by increasing branding (yes,mum, my degree is being used,); releasing a newAustralian Olive range, its heady smell soon toenrich the morning market air; and expandinginto additional retail outlets around Sydney.My future plans include studying commercialcookery later this year and pursuing foodjournalism. Until then, however, you can findme working the growers’ markets everySaturday on the Darling Mills Farm stall...definitely, not on the couch.Come down and have a taste.Maxwell Adey OKG07Happy Ending for Rugby EnthusiastTim Cussell OKG00 was a fit, 25-year oldrugby player and sports enthusiast when, in2008, he noticed something wasn’t right. Timsays that he turned a blind eye and didn’tthink his symptoms, which included a changein his bowel habits and the presence of bloodwhen going to the toilet, were anything muchto worry about.‘I put it down to living too good a life at the time,’Tim says. ‘However, the symptoms continuedand after about a year I saw my GP who,after examining me, thought I had somethinginsignificant and gave me medication which easedmy symptoms for a while.’‘It wasn’t until Easter 2010, when I noticedthese same symptoms increasing in magnitude,that I saw my GP again who booked me in for acolonoscopy. This time the colonoscopy revealedI had hundreds of polyps throughout my largebowel. A biopsy was taken, and two days later Iwas told that I had bowel cancer. Surgery resultsthen revealed it had spread outside the bowel andinto two lymph nodes.’Due to the extent of the polyps throughouthis bowel, after finishing radiotherapy andchemotherapy, Tim also underwent anoperation, a month later, to remove his entirelarge bowel and the affected lymph nodes.Tim, a stockbroker, said he has had fantasticsupport from family, friends and workcolleagues throughout his treatment. He wasalso supported by his girlfriend, Freya, towhom he recently became engaged.Today, three years after Tim noticed his firstsymptoms and after completing extensiveradiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery he ispassionate about raising awareness of bowelcancer and the importance of early detection.‘If I had known what the symptoms were of thisdisease, I would have had a colonoscopy earlier.It’s so important to not ignore any symptoms orbrush things under the rug.’Tim is organising a fundraising dinner for 2012that he hopes will raise funds for Lifehouse atRPA and the Bowel Cancer Institute.Source: www.lifehouserpa.org.auThe Thistle / June 2011 | 30

OKG SportIan MacPherson OKG55, Col Blake (President, Waverley Old Boys), CharlesWannan OKG38 and Rob Wannan OKG68 enjoy a break at the Golf DayAnnual OKGA Golf DayThe 2010 Annual OKGA Golf Day was attended by 66 keen andenthusiastic players including a large number of old boys and a numberof Knox parents as well as some ladies which has been a growingtradition over the last few years.The day commenced with a golf clinic, which some needed more thanothers, and then play got underway with a shot gun start in glorioussunny weather. The sponsored drinks cart was a welcome sight during thewarm afternoon’s play and provided all players with good sustenance.A magnificent BBQ completed the day and the successfulplayers included:• Greg Faulkner – Individual Stableford Winner with 40 Points;• Gerry Cowling and Marshall White (Scots) – Two Ball Team Winnerswith 45 Points;• Martin and Jack Gooding – Father and Son Winners with 46 Points;• Monika and Nicholas Nilsson – Mother and Son Winnerswith 42 Points.The OKGA is once again very appreciative of the many generoussponsors who kindly donate prizes and gifts to support the enjoymentof all those who participate. In addition, the OKGA sincerely thanks PhilTuck OKG77 for his ongoing commitment and organisation of anothervery successful day.Old Boys FootballKnox United started season 2011 on a high after the success of 2010.With the addition of another team to the playing ranks, Knox Unitednow boasts eight teams across All Age, Over 35s and over 45s. Thisseason we will have teams competing in Division 2, 4 and 6 of All Age,O45s 1sts, O35s 5th and an Under 21s Cup team.2011 has also seen the appointment of new Club Captain, Cam WillsOKG01 and new club Vice-Captain, Dave Guthrie OKG06. We wish themboth success as they lead us in our demanding on (and off) field pursuits.At the time of writing, we were in the midst of preseason with trialmatches against Riverview, St Patrick’s and Barker Old Boys. This shouldhopefully give us a winning start for the season ahead.There are still playing spots available and we are looking for moreplayers for our over 35 and over 45 teams, with the ‘gentle’ men of theclub proving you are never out of touch with the beautiful game.If you are interested in joining or just want to come along for a trialrun (no commitment required) please contact the club by emailknoxunited@hotmail.com or phone 0402 779 789.Matt Feros OKG01President, Knox UnitedThe Thistle / June 2011 | 31

OLD KNOX GRAMMARIANSNews of Old BoysBenjamin Bayl OKG95Having just finished two seasons as Assistant Conductor of theBudapest Festival Orchestra, Ben has been conducting operas andsymphony orchestras in London, Paris, Copenhagen, Madrid, Barcelonaand various other cities. He occasionally returns to Australia andconducted Handel’s Orlando for Opera Australia in Melbourne in 2008.In March 2011 he made his debut with the Malaysian Philharmonic.After many years in London, Ben lived in Copenhagen and is nowmoving to Berlin.Old Boys RugbyKnox Old Boys Rugby Club has ridden a wave of success whichall started a decade ago. We are striving in 2011 to win a clubchampionship for a record three years in a row. Knox plays in thehighly competitive suburban Rugby Union Kentwell Cup. This is ahigh honour for the Club now in its seventh year in the top division,winning the competition twice and the Club Championships threetimes in this period.The hard work continues by the tireless committee and with hugeeffort and support from the OKGA, we field six teams each weekand are competitive in every grade. Our fearless leader, coach PeterBromley has left us to further his career with North’s Rugby and wewish him all the best.Nathan Charles OKG06Western Force hooker Nathan Charles is a young professionalsportsman at the peak of fitness and at the top of his chosen sport. Hewas called into the Wallaby training squad before last year’s northernhemisphere tour. What makes his achievements as an elite sportsmanmost remarkable is that he has done it all while carrying the weight ofknowledge that he has a potentially fatal disease with no known cure.Until recently only his family and a few friends knew that Nathan hascystic fibrosis. Now Nathan wants people to beaware of how they can support it.He has been made National Ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Australiaand the more funds Nathan can raise the more research can be doneand hopefully cures can be found. His extreme fitness and the regimehe follows, keeps him able to play rugby and he says he is one of thelucky ones. Nathan has started his own website to lift awareness ofCF, www.nathancharles.com.auAllen Cornall OKG09For those interested in playing or coaching go to www.knoxrugby.com.au.We thank our sponsors LJ Hooker Wahroonga and the McCarroll Car groupfor their continued support.Old Boys online registrationhttp://www.knox.nsw.edu.au/online-directory.htmlUse this link to register for Old Boys online. Then you can keepin touch with other Old Boys and also be updated via email withupcoming events on the Knox Calendar.Allen finished the epic journey from Albury to Tallangatta and backahead of schedule, completing the marathon swim on Lake Humein about 13 hours after a 4am departure. Chilly temperatures nearTallangatta saw Allen cut four kilometres from his trip, his numbingextremities forcing him to turn around.Allen said the effort performed in aid of the Prostate Cancer Foundationof Australia fulfilled a long-held dream. Just before he turned around, hewas thinking ‘why am I doing this? I could be doing something so much easier.But I remembered that this was something I always wanted to do; I’ve alwayswanted to swim the dam’.Allen said he was disappointed with the lack of attendance and the factthat he did not raise much money but hoped he raised awareness ofprostate cancer.The Thistle / June 2011 | 32

Nicholas Henning OKG97Major League Baseball clubs, the ClevelandIndians and Kansas City Royals, have invitedthe Merrylands pitcher, who used to play forHolroyd Giants, to visit them but instead of aball or bat, Henning will carry a book.The 30-year-old has published a novel aboutthe sport in Australia, Boomerang Baseball, andwill use the visit to promote his work aboutAmerica’s national past-time.Boomerang Baseball is a personal story. TrentMcKnight is his name but he’s based onNick. It’s a baseball story but it encapsulatespersonal experiences. He tries to be aprofessional player, but it’s giving up on thatthat brings out the best in him and it’s whenhe comes back purely for the fun of playingthat he gets the most satisfaction.Henning worked for AMP until recently whenhe decided to follow his dream of becoming afulltime author. He says ‘I’ve worked hard to saveenough money and will see how many books I cando. I’ve given myself 18 months to focus on writing.’James Irwin OKG09Spirit in the State Super League and is lookingforward to another successful season. Jameswas named as NSW Super League U20 playerof the season in 2009-10. He has his eyes setfirmly on making it in Europe by the end ofthis season and attributes his success to datein part to the Knox football program. Jameswill again be back at the school this comingfootball season as a goal keeper coach.David Love OKG49David received the NSW Premiers Awardfor Critical Literature in 2009 with UnfinishedBusiness; Paul Keating’s interrupted revolution.Al Manning OKG99Former Waratah Al Manning OKG99 is GeneralManager of South Sea Horizons which operatestours in his homeland, Papua New Guinea. Alconducts tours of the Kokoda Track as well asBlack Bass Bluewater Fishing and New IslandSurfing. Traveller safety is the cornerstoneof Al’s business in one of the world’s mostinteresting and pristine countries. Al’s website iswww.southseahorizons.comAshley Pini OKG86Ashley started a small publishing business in2007 and, after 3 years, was recently awardedSmall Publisher of the Year by PublishersAustralia. As Ashley says, ‘Not quite an Oscar, buta significant event for me and my small business.’Ashley employs six people and is lookingto grow. He still associates with many ofhis mates from school who have beeninstrumental in giving great business adviceand keeping him focused. Ashley says, ‘indeedI am indebted most of all to Jim Siegele OKG86,Mark Furzer OKG86 and John Kennedy OKG88for their continued support.’Tim Parker OKG98Sam Rowley OKG09Sam began playing basketball when veryyoung and there is no doubt that Knoxprovided him with an excellent opportunityto further develop his skills through thesupport and assistance of the coaching staff.The opportunity to represent the 1sts ata young age provided Sam with a chanceto play against vastly stronger and fasterathletes and this was a very important factorin moulding him into the player he is today. Itis in part because of the opportunities thatKnox provided Sam with, that he has had theprivilege of playing for Australia, and that hehas received a Basketball Scholarship to theUniversity at Albany, a Division 1 college inAmerica where he will be able to play againstsome of the top basketball players in theworld. Sam is currently in preparation withthe New South Wales Institute of Sport to goto the States midway through this year. Hisgoal in basketball is to play professionally inEurope after college.After completing a season in Los Angeles atCal State University, James has returned hometo concentrate on furthering his footballcareer. James has signed with GladesvilleTim and his wife, Meghann, recently hadtwins - Emily Allison Race Parker and JacksonTimothy Race Parker, born at North ShorePrivate on 26 September 2010. Both babies,mum and dad are happy and healthy.The Thistle / June 2011 | 33

OLD KNOX GRAMMARIANSMatthew Stobo OKG09Matthew has just graduated from the NewEntry Officer Course at the Royal AustralianNaval College, HMAS Creswell, Jervis Bay.During his five months at HMAS Creswell,Matthew has been able to gain experience ineverything from survival at sea to boat work,leakstop and repair, fire fighting and weaponstraining. He was awarded the Royal AustralianNavy Governor General’s Cup by Rear AdmiralGilmore (pictured). The Governor General’sCup is awarded to the officer appointedto the New Entry Officers’ Course, whodemonstrates ability, teamwork and outstandingsportsmanship whilst on Course.James Thompson OKG86OKGA Reunions 2011CLASS OF REUNION DATE AND VENUE CONTACT1951 60 Years30/07/2011Warrawee Bowling Club,LunchEdric Chaffer – edrichaffer@bigpond.comJim Neave – thecrowsnest@bigpond.com.au1956 55 Years TBA John Molyneux – jr@molyneax.com1961 50 Years1971 40 Years18/06/2011KG120//8/2011Greengate Hotel, 7pmMichael Le Couteur – fund3d@yahoo.com.auAlan Foulkes – Alan.foulkes@clarkequipment.comNeil Cameron – cam.smith@iinet.net.auGreg Petersen – greg.petersen@abgroup.com.auRic Porter – rporter@mail.usyd.edu.au1976 35 Years TBA Chris Horsley – Christopher.horsley@cba.com.au1981 30 Years1986 25 Years30/7//2011Warrawee Bowling Club30/07/2011Cabana Bar1991 20 Years 3/09/20111996 15 Years2001 10 Years2006 5 Years20/08/2011Doncaster Hotel,Kensington4/06/2011Firehouse, North Sydney4/06/2011Cabana BarKingsley Reade – kingsley.reade@bigpond.comRoland Slee – rolan.slee@oracle.comLawrence Potter – lawrencep@incitemg.com.auGavin Docherty – classof86reunion@hotmail.comTim Morris – timmorris990@gmail.comNick Shorter – ashorter@gmail.comMatthew Paterson – matthew.paterson@onepath.com.au,mobile 0408 487 167Michael Paterson – michael@burst.net.auMatt Feros (mlmferos@hotmail.com)Alex Beath (alexander.beath@uon.edu.au)ObituariesDavid Clarke AO, OKG58David, one of the nation’s most influential and innovative business figures passed away on 8 April2011, at home surrounded by his family, less than a month after he had retired as chairman of theMacquarie Group.James’ Turramurra Vet Hospital which was openedin November 2006, in Princes Street has nowreceived its third award in three years! Afterwinning the North Shore Business Award forOutstanding Pet Care 2008, then the prestigiousAustralian Veterinary Association Practice ofExcellence in Customer Service in 2009, mostrecently the hospital was awarded the TurramurraRotary Pride of Workmanship Award 2010.Mike Urwin OKG08Mike Urwin left for Europe in 2010 on awing and a prayer with a burning ambition tocontinue his football career. Mike also playedwith Gladesville Spirit in the 2009-10 seasonbefore making the courageous decision totry his luck in Germany, and make a footballcareer a reality. Mike’s determination andfootball talent were soon noted by ThirdDivision Bundesliga side, Koblenz who havesigned Mike for the current European season.In his final year at school, David was a Prefect, a CUO, and a member of the GrammarianCommittee. He was an outstanding sportsman, Captain of our 1st XI, five-eighth for the 1st XV andrepresented the School in the CAS 1st XI and 1st XV. He enjoyed success at university and wenton to become one of the first Harvard University MBA graduates.David led Macquarie to become Australia’s own dominant investment bank well able to competewith the most aggressive international investment banks. His integrity, his adherence to highstandards and his confidence, laid the key foundations for the company’s success. Among his manyachievements was leading Macquarie to pioneer buying infrastructure assets such as airports fromthe public sector around the world and running them like private businesses.In 1971 David became the joint Managing Director of a boutique investment bank then knownas Hill Samuel, the bank had twelve staff. Its successor, Macquarie Group, now has 15,500 staffin 70 offices across 28 countries. He promoted excellence and high standards of corporategovernance and was a pivotal figure in the transfer of business skills to the philanthropic sector– it was a part of Macquarie’s culture. Under the Macquarie Foundation, chaired by David, sinceits inception in 1985, more than $145 million has been distributed to charities. He served onthe boards and councils of the Salvation Army, Opera Australia, the Royal Agriculture Society ofNSW, the Australian Rugby Union, Social Ventures Australia, the Children’s Cancer Institute ofAustralia and the Australian Olympic Foundation.The Thistle / June 2011 | 34

DeathsThe OKGA extends its sincere sympathy to the families of thefollowing Old Knox Grammarians who have passed away.Anthony John Carter OKG43 22/12/2010David Stuart Clarke OA OKG58 8/04/2011John Denis Corbett-Jones OKG52 20/05/2009Malcolm Muir Gibb OKG54 9/04/2011Ross Lyburn Hordern OKG43 25/10/2010David also came to recent prominence in a community campaign againstAGL’s practice of ‘fracking’ for coal seam gas through his ownership ofHunter Valley winery, Pooles Rock.As the first Executive Chairman of Macquarie between 1985 and March2007, David oversaw a bank that minted success so regularly it wasdubbed the ‘millionaires factory’.A former Chief Executive of Macquarie, Alan Moss, paid the followingtribute ‘David brought enormous judgement and a remarkable steadytemperament to everything he did’. In 2001 he received the CentenaryMedal for service to Australian society through business andthe community.David was indeed one of the corporate world’s gentlemen, ‘and was justas interested in helping the small end of town to create wealth as he wasin serving the big end of town’, said Mr John Green, a former MacquarieExecutive Director.Colin G Johnstone OKG43 27/11/2010Neil Duncan MacRae OKG72 2/02/2011Boyd Peyton Matthews OKG43 4/11/2010Peter McLeay Morrison OKG43 4/06/2010Stephen John Nemes OKG59 20/02/2011Roy Alfred Haroldston Perrott OKG47 9/10/2010John MacKinnon Reading OKG60 23/03/2010Nicholas Carlisle Lister Sams OKG78 2/01/2011Frederick Henry Charles Thompson OKG43 13/03/2011Maurice Alfred Tooth OKG35 29/07/2009William Lawrence Tooth OKG46 4/12/2010Ian MacPherson OKG55Roy AH Perrott OKG47, 1929-2010Roy Alfred Haroldston Perrott was born in Tamworth NSW on 8December 1929, son of Roy Leeson Perrott of Armidale and Lillian SylviaBenson Rodgers whose family had owned Attunga Station near Tamworth.Roy did not attend school in Tamworth until nearly seven years of age,spending the earlier years moving about as his father ran a number ofdifferent properties in various districts.For his later school years he attended Knox Grammar School, beginning in1946, the year after his Intermediate Certificate (today’s Year 9). Althoughvery shy and of small build Roy threw himself into school sports, inparticular, Rugby. He never found out his Leaving Certificate results as heexpected to have done badly, and didn’t need it for his future plans.gave us a set of ethical values to live up to. The ability I developed to trustmy own decisions, and the persistence, despite setbacks, to pursue goals,particularly in my tasks on my property would not have occurred without the“Knox Experience”. Over the years I determined to overcome my shynessbecause my Knox experience showed me the value of doing so.’Roy returned to his family property ‘Chevy Chase’ Armidale andworked for his father until he died in 1962. Roy then changed themanagement and property objectives and began a breeding programleading to specialisation in extra-superfine wool. During this time hewas a committee member of the Armidale Jockey Club, a judge for thePicnic Races and then became President. He was highly involved in thecommunity including being President of the Liberal Party for seven years.Roy stated ‘when I arrived at Knox as a shy 16 year old “bushie”, I wasamazed at the maturity of the seniors and captains. This exposure built myconfidence and I did some quick growing up. However, my acute shyness whileat school remained, so in some ways I missed out on many opportunitiesoffered me at Knox. I feel fortunate to have come under the influence of VicGreen as my House Master who helped turn us boys into young men andThe Thistle / June 2011 | 35

The Thistle is a publication ofKnox Grammar SchoolPacific Highway, WahroongaT: +61 2 9487 0122F: +61 2 9487 0186www.knox.nsw.edu.auCRICOS Provider Code: 00399E