INSIDE THIS ISSUE New Colombo Plan Scholarships Fulbright & Monash Scholarships Cheryl Praeger Rodgers Wing Update - Squarespace
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A MAGAZINE FOR THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE Summer 2019-2020 Issue 2 Volume 43
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Gowns and Guests
Visit from the Prime Minister
2013 Rhodes Scholar
Ken Freeman PM Award
50 Year Club Lunch
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
New Colombo Plan
Scholarships
Fulbright & Monash
Scholarships
Cheryl Praeger
Rodgers Wing Update
‘The red-brick Norman fortress of the college
was green under Virginia creeper, and
pink oleanders flowered around the tennis
courts. Behind the college was the wild bush
of King’s Park, and in front of it, beyond
the sloping lawns, the broad blue moody
river. The noises of the college were noises
of peace: people yarning on the balconies,
people singing in the showers, voices in
the quadrangle calling the names of people
wanted on the telephone. The chapel bell
tolled in the morning and in the evening,
and when his turn came to read Compline,
Rick found himself wishing everybody, with
unexpected sincerity, a quiet night and a
perfect end.
On the balconies, in the high panelled Hall
with great windows on the river, in the
showers and the Junior Common Room and
the bedroom-studies, the talk went on and on.’
St George’s College, as described in
‘The Merry-Go-Round in the Sea’,
by Randolph Stow
Georgian isisaabi-annual
The Georgian bi-annual Founded inin 1931,
1931,St
StGeorge’s
George’sCollege is aThe
co-educational residential
Georgian is also available online
publication produced
publication producedby bySt George’s college that provides accommodation
College is a co-educational college for university students.
at: stgc.uwa.edu.au
College
St within
George’s The University
College within St George’s
that is enterprising
provides a vibrant place of imagination, industry and reflection
students
of Western Australia. where we seek to provide
and opportunities, to optimise talents and
UniPrint 164714
The University of Western Australia. of diverse disciplines
abilities, and towith
backgrounds explore and appreciate diversity of thought, experience
a collegiate
The Georgian is also available and action. aimed
education, We endeavour to conserve
at fulfilling their the best of the past, to
UniPrint 155398
online at: stgc.uwa.edu.au promote the developing
aspirations, best of the present, and to seek the best for the future.
their spirit
and encouraging them Cover: Jonty Coy (2018) & Michael
To benefit
enquirethe
about residence at the College see our web page Cover: Emily recipients
Lukin (2016), Witham (2014) wins
of the the
2020
to community.
Women’s
General Sir12km run
John in the Chevron
Monash Scholarship
stgc.uwa.edu.au/apply-now or call the College Administration Perth City to Surf. (p 32) Scholarship
and the 2020 Fulbright
on (08) 9449 5555. respectively. (p 39)
2 SUMMER 2018 -2019
2 SUMMER 2019-2020
Contents Summer 2019-2020
5 From the Warden 32 Residents Introspective:
Positive Social Change
8 From the Board
Chairman 34 Sport at St George’s
9 From the Senior Student 36 St George’s College
Photography
10 Annual Giving 2019
Competition
11 Prime Minister’s Prize for
37 International Dessert
Science: Cheryl Praeger
Night
12 Fireside Chat:
John Taylor on
The Little Dragon
Sir J.J. Talbot Hobbs
14 Ladies’ Lunch: 38 From the Georgian
Dr Joan Arakkal President
16 Rodgers Wing and 39 Monash and Fulbright
Arcus Court Update Scholarship Recipients
18 Medical Formal Dinner 40 50 Year Club Lunch
20 Riverside Chat: 42 1942-1952 Reunion
Forrest Hall Postdoctoral Lunch
Research
43 Georgian Cocktail Party
22 Men’s Lunch:
44 40 Year Reunion
Tom Hughson
46 Georgian City Drinks
23 O-Week Art at the
Lawrence Wilson Art 47 Georgian Wine Tasting
Gallery in the South West
24 Music at St George’s 48 Georgian Gatherings
College
TOP: The Dragon at the Blue Boat House 50 Vale Rob Mercer
MIDDLE: College band ‘Georain’ performing at the Intercollege Battle of 28 Overcoming Adversity:
the Bands 51 Vale David Carne
BOTTOM: Raj Madigasekara & Edward Pownall Celebrating Clara
Schumann & Women 52 Victorian Georgians
in Music Travel Prize Report
30 College Art and Paintings 52 Wine Dinner
53 News & Visitors
SUMMER 2019-2020 3
From the Editor
From the Editor
Exciting things are on the horizon for
2020 – our thanks to Robert Adams
(1981) who is busy planning some
marvellous events in London in late
April. Don’t forget to save the date for
the following events:
23rd April 2020, 7pm
St George’s / UWA Dinner at the Cavalry
Annie, Harriet and Andrew Wilson & Guards Club, 127 Piccadilly, London
24th April 2020, from 6pm
Our alumni are such an important Georgian Drinks at the Quarter Deck at
part of this College. They give so The Admiralty, Trafalgar Square
much in so many ways, serving on
the Board and Foundation Board 2nd May 2020
and the various committees such North European Georgian Dinner in
as the Planning Committee and Amsterdam or Utrecht. Venue to be
the Finance Committee. They give confirmed.
their time as mentors for current
residents, as well as speaking Tim, Bill and Sarah Wiese More information will be made available
at College Formal Dinners and once details are finalised.
Practice Of Dinners. They support
the College by contributing to our Photographs have been contributed to this
Annual Giving appeals that pay publication by our Photography Bursary
for things like refurbishing the Old holders Katy Boardman (p 13, 35), Qing
Wing, installing air conditioning Ru Kiu (p 14, 14, 28, 29) and Ridhwan
and providing scholarships. Lye (cover, p 6, 18, 19, 22, 37, 39, 40, 41,
42). Thanks also to Dylan Woods (2015)
One really special thing that so many for the drone photo of the College on p
Georgians do is to provide their children, 16. The Battle of the Bands photos were
grandchildren, nieces and nephews with Kyle, Roslyn, Liahna and Kurt Franklin taken by Partografia Photography & Film.
the opportunity to become Georgians Thank you to them and to everyone else
themselves. This year at the College for their contributions. Submissions and
we have had almost 20 residents who suggestions are always welcome.
have a Georgian parent, grandparent, I hope you enjoy this edition of The
aunt or uncle. Of those 20, the parents Georgian magazine and I look forward
of six residents are both Georgians who to seeing Georgians and their families at
met while they were students living at College events soon.
St George’s. Those six residents and their
parents are: Kyle and Liahna Franklin, Best wishes for a healthy and happy 2020.
children of Kurt Franklin (1990) and
Roslyn Franklin (Wolfe 1989); Emilia Emilia, Virginia, Kay and David Horn Jo Evans (1988)
Horn, daughter of Kay Horn (Rummery Editor, The Georgian
1982) and David Horn (1982); Bill jevans@stgc.uwa.edu.au
Wiese, son of Sarah Wiese (Davies 1989)
and Tim Wiese (1989); Saskia Willinge,
daughter of Josephine Evans (1988) and
Anthony Willinge (1990); and Harriet
Wilson, daughter of Annie Wilson (Hale
1987) and Andrew Wilson (1988). We
look forward to welcoming more second
and third generation Georgians to
our alumni. Saskia Willinge and Josephine Evans
4 SUMMER 2019-2020
From the Warden
From the Warden
sociability and connection that are such increased his gift magnificently from
notable characteristics of residents past $2 million to $5 million with the challenge
and happily, as adduced above, present. that we needed to raise necessary funds,
complete the design, and enter into a
Resident Results building contract by the end of 2018.
Through the Education Committee, On 8th November 2018 we entered into
chaired by Roz Potts (Chelliah 1989) and a building contract with Jaxon, and on
composed substantially of residents, we 30th November 2018 (2018 50 Year Club
have endeavoured to create academic lunch) we broke ground with ceremonial
and personal support structures to shovel work by Deb Laird, the niece
assist students in this era of continual of Albert Arcus (1942), John Rodgers,
assessment and multiple units (core, and me, the latter receiving some rather
Our residents have enjoyed a elective and broadening) in each semester. harsh criticism regarding evident lack of
successful, active and harmonious We have made good progress over the expertise especially in the context of the
Semester Two. I have been past few years, and continue to do so. evident proficiency of Deb and John.
particularly grateful for their For Semester One 2019 the College On 6th December 2019 (2019 50 Year
tolerant and understanding attitude mean mark for UWA academic results Club lunch) we were shown round the
towards the inconveniences was 72.0 per cent, compared to the 2018 completed Rodgers Wing and Arcus
associated with and intermittent College mean of 70.5 per cent and the Court by Jaxon. The moral of the story:
noise from the West Wing 2018 University mean of 68.7 per cent. don’t miss out on a 50 Year Club lunch
construction site. The residents’ This represented the attainment of the when you have the opportunity.
perspective of the Rodgers Wing Education Committee’s goal set two years In conjunction with the Rodgers
and Arcus Court has, indeed, ago. At that time we felt that this was an Wing project we have also undertaken
been one more of active interest ambitious goal so we are pleased to have the refurbishment of the main driveway
in its emergent features than met our target last semester. We will now and the renovation of the kitchen, servery
just a courteous acceptance of be aiming to maintain and, if possible, to and Elsey Room. In Semester One 2020
major project realities. Many improve further. we will additionally be converting the
residents have viewed rooms The attainment of this target derives Old Laundry, which nestles attractively
and the building, as they have from resident led and driven initiatives within the Arcus Court, into an Arts Hub:
moved towards completion. and programs. They have brought about once renovated it will have green screen
They have commented not just efficiencies, and engendered confidence capability, enabling filming that is now a
on the appealing set up of the and a collaborative working spirit. They part of many courses and presentations;
new residential rooms but also have also allayed anxieties, leading to a be soundproofed; and retain water
fulsomely on the views from, positive and settled atmosphere and a supply and basins. The College Art Club,
especially, the balconies that take College characterised by wellbeing and media and photography aficionados, and
in the cork oak very beautifully good health. musicians will be its denizens, working
as well as the river, gardens and individually and collectively. I am
western aspect of Original Wing. Rodgers Wing and Arcus Court excited at the prospects of what will be
I am also glad to report that we have produced from within – the aesthetic as
They have also identified that critical hit our targets for the Rodgers Wing well as practical outcomes to help with,
element that is shared with the Original and Arcus Court. The sub-committee, for example, interviews, applications and
Wing of vertical and horizontal led by Planning Committee chair job portfolios.
connection; the vertical provided by Marino Evangelisti (1982) and including Our music making capabilities will
staircases (and also in the Rodgers Wing Jermayne Fabling (1990) and Project be enhanced within our new western
two lifts) and the horizontal by the Supervisor Frank Smith, has worked very complex not just through the new Arts
balconies. We have often commented productively with Jaxon, our building Hub but also the addition of Ruth
on the Oxbridge characteristics of the contractor. This has led to delivery of Rodgers’ restored c1894 Bechstein
College’s architecture but in this regard the Rodgers Wing on time in December concert grand piano to her eponymous
I believe that it is a little different to the 2019, and also pleasingly within the room. The Ruth Rodgers Room will
Oxbridge norm which is of staircases financial parameters set for the project. be, inter alia, an exceptional place for
entered from the ground floor of We are highly satisfied with the way in musical performance.
quadrangles, lacking that capacity for which the project has been undertaken
movement across wings and quadrangles and its outcome.
at higher levels. I think that this special St On 1st December 2017 (2017 50
George’s feature does explain the tolerant Year Club lunch) John Rodgers (1956)
SUMMER 2019-2020 5
From the Warden
FROM THE WARDEN continued music, specialising in choral conducting,
at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music,
New Haven, Connecticut.
These awards do not just reflect
technical expertise and attainment in
the field of music but also the significant
leadership and other contributions
that Jonty and Michael have made to
their communities.
New Colombo Plan Scholarships
The New Colombo Plan Scholarships
were fully introduced by the Federal
government in 2015 to enable Australian
students to study in Indo-Pacific and
Asian universities and to immerse
themselves in life whilst resident abroad.
These scholarships will deepen the
ties between Australia and its regional
neighbours. As Senator the Hon
Marise Payne, Minister for Foreign
Affairs and Minister for Women, and
the Hon Dan Tehan MP, put it on
announcing the 2020 awards: ‘The NCP
selects Australia’s best and brightest
undergraduates from all universities
across the country.’ The selection criteria
include: academic excellence at the
Jonty Coy (2018) & Michael Lukin (2016)
Music News College musician in four years to be
These exciting prospects come as awarded a John Monash Scholarship;
we celebrate two notable individual Michael Grebla (2010) was the 2016
achievements by recent College musicians, Zelman Cowen John Monash Scholar
Jonty Coy (2018) and Michael Lukin who proceeded to the New England
(2016), who appear on the front cover. Conservatory of Music, Boston where
Jonty has been awarded one of the he completed a Masters of Music
20 Australian John Monash Scholarships Composition with the highest distinction.
for 2020. Jonty intends to begin a Michael Lukin has been awarded
2ème cycle supérieur (Master of Music a Fulbright Scholarship that will be
Performance) at the Conservatoire awarded to him at Parliament House,
National Supérieur de Musique et de Canberra on 27th February 2020. Michael
Danse de Paris. Jonty is the second intends to undertake a Master’s degree in Cassie Howell & Amber Anderson
6 SUMMER 2019-2020
From the Warden
tertiary level (40 per cent weighting), in an amount estimated at $450,000 per
leadership in the community (30 per cent annum. Annual maintenance is budgeted
weighting), adaptability and resilience or falls within the Warden’s delegated
(15 per cent weighting), and ability to authority. Minor capital works include
contribute to New Colombo Plan goals items such as replacement of boilers and
(15 per cent weighting). air conditioning units, upgrading of rooms
These weightings very much speak and bathrooms, and refurbishment of
to the capabilities of College members. window sets and balustrades.
We were delighted that 2019 residents In addition it is intended to capitalise
Cassie Howell and Amber Anderson the Foundation’s Hackett Fund at the
were both selected as New Colombo end of 2020 in an amount of about
Plan Scholars for 2020. Cassie is a $2.5 million. The Hackett Fund’s purpose
botanist, and served as the College Club is to fund major works of an anticipated
Secretary in 2017. Amber is a political nature but whose timing is uncertain
scientist, and was, like Cassie, also a or identified in the College Future
College Club Secretary. Projects Register. These works include
Amber is going to study Political replacement or refurbishment of major
Science at Parahyangan Catholic services such as electrical or hydraulic
University in Indonesia, and Cassie plant, roofs and balconies, solar panels,
is going to pursue Environmental lifts, kitchen, driveways, steps, turrets, and
Studies at the National University of reticulation systems. In the event that the
Singapore. They were two of the six Hackett Fund is drawn upon, available
recipients from UWA. So both our future College surpluses would be first
current and recent residents have this applied to recapitalising the Hackett Fund
year enjoyed success in being selected for prior to other deployment.
competitive scholarships. It is then planned to apply future The Ruth Rodgers Common Room in the new
College surpluses after minor capital Rodgers Wing
Strategic Plan works and Hackett Fund transfers to the
I made reference in the last Georgian Scholarship Fund. that we wish for them without careful,
magazine to the Strategic Plan 2020- Enlarging the Scholarship Fund, which long-term planning. We understand that
2024. The draft was considered at board presently stands at about $5 million, is our our plans will necessarily change over the
meetings and also at a Strategic Plan major objective of the next decade. coming decades and centuries but without
workshop involving the Board and other a plan, we will not be well-positioned to
invitees. The Plan was endorsed by the College 2031 Centenary Appeal take advantage of and to meet change
College Board on 20th November at its last The College and Foundation Boards successfully. I hope that this brief synopsis
meeting of the year. I would like to thank have indicated their desire to launch has been of interest. If Georgians wish
in particular Geoff Goldsmith (1986) for the College 2031 Centenary Appeal in to discuss any aspects of the Strategic
taking on the principal responsibility for 2020 to raise a further $24 million for Plan with me, they are very welcome
the preparation, review and refinement the Scholarship Fund by the College’s to contact me.
of the Plan. Centenary in 2031. The aim is to be able
The College has five strategic to offer a significant scholarship of one Gatherings
priorities over the five year Plan quarter of annual fees for every student In Semester Two I was delighted to attend
period that focus on: enhancing successfully selected for residence. gatherings of Georgians, residents and
student experience, marketing, We hope to achieve this goal by the their families in Dunsborough, Bunbury,
investment in physical infrastructure College’s Centenary through major gifts, Albany, Geraldton, Katanning, Esperance,
in line with the College Future Projects bequests, family and group partnerships, Canberra and Sydney. I am looking
Register, financial sustainability, and and Annual Giving. forward to the planned dinners and drinks
stakeholder engagement. We look forward to launching the in London and the Netherlands in April
In considering financial sustainability Centenary Appeal in 2020. and May 2020, and very much welcome
the College and Foundation Boards We expect beyond the Centenary in and encourage you to join us if you can.
have extended their consideration long 2031 to generate cash surpluses to build With my very best wishes to you all
beyond the next five years. In doing so up further the Endowment Fund, which for the New Year, and my thanks for all
they have targeted for the College to currently stands at about $4 million, so your support for the College throughout
be able: to fund annual maintenance, that the College’s financial position is this rich and enjoyable 2019.
which is expensed immediately, out of secured in perpetuity.
annual income, in an amount estimated at Our major focus is upon our residents, Ian Hardy
$250,000 per annum; and to fund minor present, past and future, but we cannot Warden
capital works, out of annual surpluses, provide the experience and opportunities
SUMMER 2019-2020 7
From the Board Chairman
From the Board Chairman
research stated that “it is this social glue he made a difference! Music has since
that supports graduates’ sense of identity become embedded in our culture, and
and inclusion, and this, in turn, drives has given us so many opportunities to
meaning and purpose in their education welcome the public into College. Our
and work life.” presence on social media and the Internet
To my mind these findings reinforce is now modern and inviting; our residents
the value of college living. What our are at the forefront of our marketing. And
College has done throughout its history is the restoration and refurbishment of the
to provide its residents with opportunities older buildings has not been forgotten; the
to build friendships, to establish networks original building has probably not been
in disciplines other than one’s degree in such good shape since it was built. Air
subject, and to chance one’s arm at conditioning in the Tower! Unheard of.
What do we learn at organising or leading something, all I’m proud of what our staff and our
St George’s College? within a supportive environment. residents have achieved. We on the Board
Our College was modelled on the College stimulates that “social glue”. do our best to guide and encourage, but
Oxbidge example, but only up to a If an undergraduate lives life to the our expanded Board (an initiative of the
point: St George’s, unlike its English full within St George’s, the Macquarie last few years) allows a wider spread of
counterparts, has not taught tertiary research implies that they will graduate views and more meaningful contributions
subjects within its walls. Of course we from university equipped with the soft to strategies and management processes.
have almost always held tutorials and skills they need to succeed. My own time College is managed well; Georgians can
seminars, but they support the subject at St George’s gave me lifelong friends be confident that what we might call “the
teachings occurring across the road, at well outside my engineering profession, business”, which underpins the College,
the university. Non-resident students friends I’ve always valued and admired; is in good shape. The Board recently
don’t come to St George’s because their and I was able to “have a go” at various resolved its strategic plan for the next five
lecturer is a don, resident in college, as tasks on behalf of the residents – such as years; you will hear more about that in
they might in Cambridge or Oxford. organising the annual picnic! Did I leave future Georgian magazines. It’s been a busy
Occasionally, usually over a glass of College with social and communications time, with many, many achievements,
wine, your chairman has mused on the skills? I never thought about what College since I joined the Board, and I’m sure the
possibility of our College becoming more did for me in that way, but now I do years ahead will be equally so.
like an Oxbridge college, but that really believe it did. May I wish all Georgians a safe and
was idle speculation; our university is One of WA’s universities advertises happy time as we farewell 2019, and
not like Oxford or Cambridge, and the that it produces “job-ready” graduates. all the very best for the new year, the
full Oxbridge model could not work here I think our College is very likely to start of a new decade. And may I close
unless UWA was radically different. achieve just that, given our culture of by thanking the Warden, the staff, my
So, in spite of the differences between encouragement and diversity. So, yes, our Board colleagues and all of our committee
the models, what do our residents learn residents do learn at St George’s College; members, for their friendship and
at St George’s? they learn the soft skills, the skills which support. The College is in good hands. G
Interesting research has recently they need for success in their careers and
emerged, from the Business School at their lives. Dr Peter Hopwood (1964)
Macquarie University, which suggests Board Chairman
that undergraduate and postgraduate My last hurrah!
students “struggled with employability, This will be my last column as your
not because of the lack of intellectual skills Chairman. I’ve been a member of the
training, but because of the lack of soft Board for almost nine years, so it’s time
skills preparation”. Students believed that for me to retire.
“universities should equip them not only As The Georgian has documented over
with intellectual skills but also with the those nine years, our College has changed
social and emotional skills needed for … dramatically, in terms of both culture
personal growth and development”. Of and fabric. Just before I joined the Board
course, the right knowledge is essential we opened the Newby Wing; early next
to success after university, but simply year we open the Rodgers Wing, with its
learning the subject matter does not, superb residential accommodation, new
of itself, provide what is needed for common rooms, and (at last!) modern
success in society – the soft skills. The offices for our staff. In 2012 we recruited
article (in The Australian) reporting this a new Warden, Ian Hardy, and hasn’t
8 SUMMER 2019-2020
From the Senior Student
From the Senior Student
Some other amazing community the International Representative. Their
events this year included the Intercollege role is to be a helping hand to our
Blood Drive where the community international and exchange students,
representatives organised for our residents helping them learn about St George’s and
to donate blood. We also had a food Australian culture and helping them show
drive run by Patricia Frazis with the the domestic students’ aspects of their
College canteen. Canteen had some of the culture. With this goal in mind two cross-
necessary supplies for the food drive for cultural events were held. In semester
sale, and we were able to purchase them one we held an International Drinks
to be donated when buying our late-night Night where residents from six different
snacks. Something that St George’s has countries offered drinks, both alcoholic
been taking part in for many years is and non-alcoholic, and snacks from their
As the end of the year approaches it is Relay for Life, where relay teams run or home country. In semester two we had
customary for the Senior Student to write walk around an oval for 24 hours straight. International Dessert Night where once
a report for The Georgian magazine but This year we won the prize for most laps, again residents from different cultural
trying to sum up an entire year of events, completing 1150 in the 24 hours, tying backgrounds showcased desserts. With
memories, laughs, tears and everything with the UWA Science Union. More each sip and bite everyone had a taste of
in between isn’t easy. As Georgians will importantly we also won the College twelve different countries without ever
remember, the year begins with O-Week. Spirit Award. Taking part in these sorts leaving the Elsey Room. Congratulations
It’s an amazingly fun week and this year of charity and volunteering opportunities to Cicely Melina who did such a great
we welcomed 95 new residents to the is always gratifying and makes living at job as our inaugural International
College family. The week went smoothly College that much more special. Representative.
and without a hitch – I measured Another large part of the St George’s I could write an entire book on the
success by the fact that no one had to community is our music. Our annual happenings of this year, but I’ve tried to
go injured to the Sir Charles Gairdner Acoustic Night and Folk Night saw keep it short and sweet. It has been the
Hospital Emergency Department – so I large numbers of residents perform. most amazing time and I am so privileged
was ecstatic. Both evenings were amazing and there to have been Senior Student this year.
A major facet of College life that I is nothing better than being able to It has been an honour to help grow the
worked on this year was reducing our enjoy an evening in awe of your fellow St George’s community – it’s a place I will
environmental impact. Together with residents’ talents. We also had a Sunday always call home. G
the College’s Hospitality Manager, Sonja Acoustic session with residents performing
Freeman, we introduced initiatives such throughout the afternoon, which was a Genevieve Victor
as changing the late dinner take-way great study break. The annual Intercollege Senior Student
boxes from plastic to cardboard, changing Battle of the Bands competition was Genevieve is a 3rd year College
the plastic plates, knives and forks held in second semester, and the College resident from Albany, studying Political
previously used at BBQ lunches to more band, Georain, played an amazing set and Science and International Relations
biodegradable plastics and encouraging won first prize for the fourth year in a
residents to bring their own plates and row! The pressure is definitely on for
lunchboxes instead of using take-away next year. This year saw a concert run
options. The last change we made was by two of our residents in celebration of
the recycling of all our milk bottles as Clara Schumann’s’ 200th birthday. The
they can now be sent back to Browne’s Overcoming Adversity concert was a brilliant
for recycling. Alongside these changes evening with performances from UWA
we held a week-long event each semester music students, the Mockingbirds and
to acknowledge the importance of being St George’s residents, some even debuting
environmentally conscious – dubbed new works. The fantastic aspect of this
“Eco-Week”. For the second semester evening was that every piece performed
Eco-Week event, our Community was composed or arranged by women.
Representative, Morgan Campbell, Having an evening like this in celebration
collaborated with the Residential Students of women’s achievements is spectacular
Department to host an intercollege and I’m so honoured I was able to be a
environmentally themed festival in the part of this.
Quad, featuring DIY beeswax wraps, Through the Education Committee
DIY keep-cups, live music, a second-hand the 2019 College Club Executive
clothes pop-up shop and friendly reptiles. appointed a new committee position,
SUMMER 2019-2020 9
Annual Giving 2019
Annual Giving 2019
We are privileged to have such a generous
community and the College is grateful for
the exceptional financial support given by
Georgians, friends of the College, and parents
of current residents. This support makes it
possible for St George’s to continue to provide
promising students of diverse disciplines and
backgrounds with a true collegiate education.
The St George’s College Foundation acknowledges with
gratitude the donation from the Anglican Community 1940s Dr R B Whitwell Dr L W Kenda
Dr J J E Glover Mr P A Wreford Ms C K Cheah
Fund, as well as the following individuals for their generous Dr J T Jefferies Mr R I Gunn Mr G C M Goldsmith
support during Annual Giving 2019. Many thanks also to Mr E P Anderson Mr J A Hassell Mr A & Mrs K Wackett
Mr E G Hayman Prof P C Healy Ms R A Martin
those who preferred to make their gifts anonymously, and to Mr R A Piesse Dr P F Hopwood Ms J F Evans
Prof J C Rivière Mr J M Johnston Mr & Mrs M Stickells
those whose gifts were received after this list was compiled Mr M R Mackie Dr K D Suter AM
Mr B W S James OAM
for publication. Mr J O Stone Mr M F Monaghan Ms K J Teale
Dr P B Tunbridge OAM Mr D L Armstrong Mr T & Mrs S Wiese
Mr M C P Clifton Mr W A James Mrs J H Wills
Mr E J S Cook Rev E P Witham
Bequests Mr R E Gertzel
Mr H D B Norman
Mr J W Bird
Mr R J McDonald
1990s
Mr J S Fabling
Mr J Puzey Dr A E S Tan Mr N K Fahie
Dr P S Hanrahan Ms F J Plant
Including St George’s in your Will helps to ensure the 1950s Mr G T Tilbrook Mr J A Rigg
continuation of the great work of the College, providing life- Mr A L Vincent Mr P T Trend Dr A J Hewitt
Em Prof H L Davies AO Mr D C J Broome Ms M J M Humann
changing learning and living experiences and opportunities Mr J H M Honniball Mr D T Irvine AO Mr R M Oddy
Mr P Marshall Mr T J Plant
for future generations of students. Dr A J Peck
Mr J J Neil Ms G C Fabling
Dr R D Sturkey CVO AM
Bequests received by the College over many decades Dr L E Ward Mr W S Peters Dr J A Love
Em Prof R L Chase Dr A Turner
have funded scholarships and general building works, Dr J C Hanrahan AM 1970s Mr R M O’Donnell
and contributed to the St George’s College Foundation’s Mr R J S Hollingsworth Mr R L Campbell Mr J R Beaver
Mr J H N Masters Dr M J E Davis Mr K A Kerr
Capital Fund. Dr C J Powell Mr I D Goldsmith
Bequests have been made by alumni, former staff and Mr C A R Field Mr B D Haigh 2000s
Mr H C Grant-Frost Dr F J Prendergast Mr B L Baker
from those who were not residents but saw how the College Mr N E Mouritz Dr J T Gliddon Dr C G Jenkinson
provides a valuable contribution to Australian society. Mr R E S Argyle OAM Mr T R D Mason Mr T & Mrs J Bayley
Mr J F S Browne Dr P G Simpson OAM Mr I V Redko
Bequests may be unrestricted, which enables the College Mr R D P Clifton Mr C P Bairstow Mr M O Mashinini
Mr P J Flanigan Hon W R Marmion Miss P Shi
to choose how best to apply the bequest funds, or designated, Mr A W Newton
Mr R W Jahn
where you choose how the bequest funds will be used. Mr A J Macmillan Mr T D Petersen Friends of the
Mr G R Hogbin Mr G W Rich College
Please direct bequest enquiries to the Warden Ian Hardy Mr D W Nairn Dr G N Rudeforth Mr C & Mrs K Baird
(ihardy@stgc.uwa.edu.au or (08) 9449 5555). Mr A J Sandercock The Hon J H D Day Mr M R Beech
Mr D R L Burt Mr D M Ireland Dr M L Bennett
Mr M D Mercer Mr A C Otvos Mr C & Mrs R Boyce
Mr C J C Trott Mr A P Baird Mr M & Mrs B Broekman
Mr P R E Wann Mr R W Dark Mrs E C Broome
Dr J W Copland AO Mr B D Rick Mr C & Mrs R Evans
Mr J E Ryan Mr P L Ridgway Mr D & Mrs M Greatrex
Mr M T Rogers Mrs N Gwynne
1960s Dr I J Johnston Mrs L Howell
Mr R D Collister Mr S D Payne Dr J Kruger
Mr J P W Farr Mr T W Hall Dr D & Mrs I
Rev A G Forsyth Mr J I Rick Madigasekara
Mr S P Harrison Mr C T Engelke Mr B Marchetti & Mrs N
Dr G A Lefroy Dr M G Marsh Sykes
Mr D R Williams AM QC Mr M McGann & Ms C
Dr R J Atkinson 1980s Salmond
Dr F E Grader Mr I C Blayney Mr A M Moore
Dr P R Jackson Mr R J Nash Mr R & Mrs A Nail
Dr R I T Prince Ms S A Blakely Mr D Overington
Mr B B Baker Adj Prof C E Carter Mr G & Mrs E Poultney
Mr J D Barrett-Lennard Dr P G Donnelly Mr S & Mrs C Riley
Dr F T A Lovegrove Mr M R Evangelisti Dr L Sparrow
Mr R W Mercer Mr D & Mrs K Horn Dr M Victor & Dr J K Nel
Mr D M Newby Ms A M Weller Mr T & Mrs M Wilkinson
Dr C K Williams Ms E M Zolnier
Mr A D N Adams Mr R J Gregson and 12 anonymous
Dr T M Height Mr D C Griffiths donors
Dr D J Lord Mrs M D Rogers
10 SUMMER 2019-2020Prime Minister’s Prize for Science Winner: Cheryl Praeger
Prime Minister’s Prize for Science 2019 Winner:
Internationally Acclaimed
Mathematician Cheryl Praeger (1976)
schools at all levels and promoting the
discipline in emerging economies.
Emeritus Professor Praeger has shown
outstanding teaching and guidance to
students at The University of Western
Australia; the influence of her research,
teaching and mentoring has grown to a
level of astonishing international impact.
She has put Western Australia on the
global mathematical map by building
a superb research group and nurturing
local talent, such as 2018 Fields Medallist,
Akshay Venkatesh, who was taught
and mentored by her as a 13-year-old
undergraduate.
Emeritus Professor Praeger has one
of the most stunning publication records
The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science of any mathematician. She currently has
Australian Government Department of Industry, Innovation and Science
more than 410 publications; a remarkable
number in her field of mathematics. She
Congratulations to Georgian Emeritus demonstrated an extraordinary ability was elected a Fellow of the Australian
Professor Cheryl Praeger (1976) who to foster and inspire others with her love Academy of Science in 1996 and has
of mathematics, creating a huge body served as President of the Australian
was awarded the prestigious 2019
of academic work and an equally large Mathematical Society; as a member of
Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her body of service for the generation of the Prime Minister’s Science Council;
fundamental contributions to research new mathematicians in Australia. Her and, has been actively engaged with the
in pure and applied mathematics. Her highly innovative work includes research Australian Mathematics Trust.
work explains the complex mathematics into the mathematics of symmetry in Many of Emeritus Professor Praeger’s
required for applications such as secure graphical models. These have far-reaching awards have marked the first time a
digital communication and encryption applications, such as enabling search woman has won the prize. This includes
engines to retrieve information efficiently the 2013 Thomas Ranken Lyle Medal
for the web.
from the World Wide Web. of the Australian Academy of Science, of
Emeritus Professor Praeger is Emeritus Professor Praeger is similarly which she was the first female recipient
internationally acclaimed for her research famous for her research and work since the Medal’s establishment in 1935.
in mathematics, including fundamental on algorithms. Emeritus Professor Praeger and
contributions to group theory, Many of her algorithms are her husband Dr John Henstridge were
permutation groups and combinatorics. incorporated into powerful computer resident tutors at St George’s in 1976 and
Group theory is central to public-key systems (Magma and GAP) and have 1977 and fondly remember their time at
cryptography used for secure banking, transformed the way in which algebra the College. Nowadays they regularly
digital signatures and secure internet research and teaching is conducted. Her attend Music at St George’s College
communication. Permutation group research has demonstrated a remarkable concerts and the Winthrop Singers’
theory is used in applications including level of detailed knowledge and insight; Evensong held in the College Chapel. G
solving Rubik’s Cube. Combinatorics an ability to use techniques from number
contributes to real-world applications theory, probability, statistics and computer Source: https://www.industry.gov.au/sites/
ranging from error correcting codes science to solve challenging problems. She default/files/2019-10/2019-prime-ministers-
in digital communications systems to has also supported women in mathematics prize-for-science-cheryl-praeger.pdf and https://
calculating gambling payouts. and science, especially through her roles research-repository.uwa.edu.au/en/persons/cheryl-
For more than 40 years, she has with national and international scientific praeger
lived her passion for education and bodies, advocating for mathematics in
SUMMER 2019-2020 11Fireside Chat: John Taylor on Sir J.J. Talbot Hobbs
Fireside Chat:
John Taylor on Sir J.J. Talbot Hobbs
On the evening of 12th September 2019, sadly been demolished. He also touched
the College, in conjunction with Christ on Hobbs’ impoverished childhood in
England, his relationship with his wife
Church Grammar School’s Centre for
and children including several tragedies
Ethics, hosted a very special event in the family suffered, and his extensive
the JCR: a presentation on College community involvement and contribution
architect and founding member of the as a highly respected community leader in
College Council, Sir Joseph John Talbot his later years.
Hobbs. It was timed to correspond with Hobbs was born in Pimlico, London,
the hundred-year anniversary of Hobbs’ in 1864, but shortly after his birth
his family moved to Merton, near
return from Europe following the end of Wimbledon, where he grew up in relative
the First World War. The presentation poverty. At the age of 15 Hobbs was to commissions such as Christ Church
was given by respected heritage architect sent to live with the family of contractor at Claremont and its rectory, and would
John Taylor, who recently had a book John Hurst, whom he would serve as later include St George’s College,
published by UWA Press “Between a builder’s assistant. Hurst was a poor commissioned in 1927.
Duty and Design: The architect businessman, losing money on many of In 1898, Hobbs’ four-year-old
his investments and ventures, so in 1886 daughter Beryl died of diphtheria,
soldier Sir J.J. Talbot Hobbs” which
the family emigrated to Australia to try caused by poor sanitary conditions due
highlights Hobbs’ place as a citizen of their fortunes in Perth, taking Hobbs with to the inability of the water supply and
national importance. them. In 1890 he married the Hurst’s sewerage infrastructure to keep up with
eldest daughter Edith, a talented artist Perth’s rapid growth. Because of his
Nowadays Talbot Hobbs is best with a significant interest in Western successful business, Hobbs was able to
remembered for his war-time service Australian flora. buy fifteen blocks in the semi-rural ‘back
as a decorated Lieutenant General, In late 1887, at 23, Hobbs, with blocks’ of Peppermint Grove, away from
culminating in his promotion to no formal qualifications except his the problems of the growing city. Here
Commander of the Australian Army experience as apprentice to Hurst, set he built a sprawling family home ‘The
Corps following the Armistice in up an architectural practice in Perth. Bungalow’, surrounded by gardens and a
November 1918. John was keen to He was very soon making a name tennis court, and close to the river.
emphasise that Hobbs was also a for himself, seeing a nearly fifty-fold Hobbs was a small, unassuming man
significant architect in WA, responsible for increase in his income within ten years. of strong character and with meticulous
the grand Federation buildings in Perth His undoubted abilities coincided with attention to detail, which made him such a
and Fremantle, many of which have now fortune in the shape of the effects of the successful architect and soldier. When war
explosive Western Australian goldrushes broke out, he enlisted at the age of 50.
that commenced in 1892. His ‘big break’ He was appointed Commander of the 1st
was winning the commission to design Division Artillery at Gallipoli, a campaign
the Weld Club building in 1891 and about which he had serious reservations.
thereafter he was commissioned to design At the end of the Gallipoli campaign, he
many significant buildings, including was sent to the Western Front where he
mansions for Perth’s elite, with whom led the 5th Division. Here, his strengths
he was starting to mingle. Some of the in planning, surveying and building were
buildings he designed during this period able to come to the fore. Hobbs saw
were businessman-politician Walter modern trench warfare as a matter of
Loton’s grand Dilhorn in Bulwer Street, business, engineering and organisation,
the extensive Boans Department Store and approached it in this way. His diary
complex between Murray and Wellington commented on the lines of trucks bringing
Streets, the Perth Yacht Club in front supplies to and from the Front, where
of the city, and Moir’s Chambers (later men spent much of their time building
the T&G building) on the corner of and maintaining the trenches, operating
St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street. as smoothly as business in civilian
L-R Field Marshal Sir William Birdwood,
College Warden the Rev Canon Charles Law, He was also made Diocesan Architect life. This logistical approach proved
Sir Talbot Hobbs for the Church of England, which led successful. After the Armistice Hobbs
12 SUMMER 2019-2020Fireside Chat: John Taylor on Sir J.J. Talbot Hobbs
succeeded General Sir John Monash and the 1980s to the iron ore and gas boom
took command of the Australian Corps of recent times has also played a role.
between 28 November 1918 and 30 May More of his buildings have survived in
1919, in charge of keeping the remaining Fremantle, but even these face threat if
troops gainfully occupied until they could we do not learn to value our history, and
be repatriated at the end of the war. also persist in our under-valuation of
During this time, he oversaw the these buildings’ significance and of Hobbs’
design of Australian War Memorials in importance to the history of our State as
France and Belgium, where so many of its most prolific and influential architect.
our soldiers were buried. Hobbs was The College would like to thank John
instrumental in the iconic obelisk design Taylor and the Christ Church Grammar
of most of the memorials to the five School Centre for Ethics for such an
Australian Army Divisions, as well as interesting presentation which shed light
the location of the Australian National on Talbot Hobbs and his important
Memorial at Villers Bretonneux in contributions, so significant to both the
Northern France and the memorial for his College’s and the State’s history. G Dr John Taylor
5th Division at Polygon Wood in Belgium.
Upon his return to WA in October
1919 Hobbs resumed his architectural
practice and became involved in
community initiatives such as Returned
Soldiers’ affairs. Significantly he was part
of the State War Memorial Committee,
tasked in the 1920s with designing and
finding a site for a State War Memorial
for the WA Community to collectively
grieve and remember those who died.
The current location in King’s Park was
eventually chosen in 1926 and, unlike
in other states where a competition was
held to determine the design of their
memorials, in WA Hobbs was asked to
design our main place of remembrance.
Aware of budget constraints, he based his
design on that which he’d used for the
Western Front Memorials with an obelisk Hobbs, Smith & Forbes’ architectural drawing of the College
as the central feature.
Hobbs’s significance as WA’s most
respected architect and community figure
was clear at the time of his unexpected
death at sea in 1938, on his way to
attend the official opening of the Villers
Bretonneux Memorial. Upon receiving
the news, the Prime Minister ordered
Hobbs be given a National Funeral.
A memorial statue of him was also erected
on the Esplanade on the foreshore of the The College under construction
Swan River, one of the few WA figures
(and the only architect) to be honoured
in this way. Yet, as John sadly noted,
much of his legacy has been eroded and
forgotten. Many of the grand houses
and buildings he designed have been
demolished, often through wilful neglect
and ignorance of their significance to the
history and heritage of WA. The desire
to modernise and build skyscrapers that
Ian Hardy with John Taylor’s book outside the
swept the state from the mineral boom in The Weld Club (Courtesy of the State Library of Premier Mill Hotel, the restored former flour mill
the 1960s, through the WA Inc period of Western Australia 014030PD) designed by Hobbs in Katanning
SUMMER 2019-2020 13Ladies’ Lunch: Dr Joan Arakkal
Ladies’ Lunch: Dr Joan Arakkal
Dr Joan Arakkal grew up and
trained in orthopaedics in India,
before moving to the UK where she
was admitted as a Fellow of the
Royal College of Surgeons. Besides
her clinical work Dr Arakkal has a
keen interest in research pertaining
to fracture healing and she is the
recipient of several academic
and research awards in India and
Australia. Her first book, ‘Slice Girls’,
describes the complex relationship
between surgery and gender. Dr
Arakkal works and lives with her
husband and two children in Perth.
She was the guest speaker at the
Ladies’ Lunch held in August and an
excerpt from her address is below.
L-R Cicely Melina, Allegra Mazza-Parton, Briana Davies-Morrell, Dr Joan Arakkal, Kaitlyn Buffon,
Alyssia Wishart, Helen Abbott, Cara Boyce
Today there are few areas where women
have not ventured. For those considering a Besides the everyday frustrations of on a patient’s broken arm. The older
career in surgery, especially orthopaedics, working in surgical specialities, women anaesthetist looked at me before asking
you would find yourself in a very also encounter behaviours that are for the real surgeon. It was not until he
satisfying field. What it takes to make a archaic, making their job needlessly confirmed with my seniors that it was
good surgeon, as the old Chinese saying difficult. This includes the attitudes of okay to go ahead that he anaesthetised the
goes, is the eye of an eagle, the heart of a some male surgeons towards women patient. Unfortunately, we are still a rare
lion and the fingers of a lady – courage, working in a field that has traditionally entity and eyebrows are still raised.
keen vision and a dexterous touch. been a man’s world. Times are changing Over 50% of our global entrants into
If you have not visited an operating and our gender should not be a medical schools are women, but once
theatre you may have at least seen one consideration in our career choices. There orthopaedic training is completed 96%
on television screens, where doctors are still areas where men continue to of orthopaedic surgeons are men. When
dressed in sterile outfits, go about cutting dominate and women are marginalised. a woman attempts to enter that world,
and fixing patients. There is blood, quiet This can be and should be changed. she is trespassing on traditional grounds
efficiency, some controlled panic and It has long been held by male hallowed by men.
moments of triumph. The privilege to practitioners of orthopaedics that it is Orthopaedics began as a trade guild
wield a knife over another is not one that unsuited to the fairer sex because of of barber surgeons a few centuries ago.
should be taken lightly. Remembering the the need for brute force. But we have A remnant of this origin is still seen in
Hippocratic oath, Primum non nocere – first travelled far from the images hanging the red and white poles outside barber
do no harm, we wield our knives and on the walls of old Royal Colleges when shops – red indicating blood, and white,
enter bodies with care and reverence to fix patients were benumbed with brandy and bandages. These guilds operated under
what we see as wrong. After the last suture were held down by strong tunic-clad men a different set of values—where women
has been placed, we leave nature’s miracle while amputations were done with a large were marginalised, where science
to do the rest of the healing. saw. Women would today gladly defer threatened their antiquated ways, and
The satisfaction and the high to male surgeons in such a situation. But where allegiance to older members was
experienced at the end, as you pull off times and societal values have changed. a greater determinant of success than
your bloodied gloves and sterile gown And importantly, technology has changed. merit. Even today surgeons are called ‘Mr’
knowing you have fixed a problem, is Developments in anaesthetics, muscle harking back to the time when they were
incomparable with any other high. Yet it relaxants, and power tools have levelled members of such guilds and not qualified
is not always that easy. Things go wrong, the playing field with respect to the need doctors. The intangible remnants of that
patients bleed, and complications happen. for physical strength. The focus today is era are unfortunately still preserved in
The hours are long and the sacrifices on good technique, and brute strength the attitudes within some of these guilds,
many. You miss family events and could even be a disadvantage. which in modern parlance are mostly
loneliness can overcome you. But through Early in my career as a young called ‘Associations’ or ‘Colleges’.
it all there is the wonder and magic of orthopaedic surgeon in India, I was The refusal by some orthopaedic
healing that keeps you going. scrubbed up and ready to operate surgeons to embrace modernity
14 SUMMER 2019-2020Ladies’ Lunch: Dr Joan Arrakal
is not without consequence to the While equality is not my clarion call,
Australian public. Various academic equity is. Both men and women being
disciplines globally have shown us able to pursue their passion is a birthright
that greater scientific development we should all respect. If a girl wants to
has occurred through the inclusion be a seamstress, she should be one, if she
of women. Orthopaedics has failed wants to be an astronaut she should, and
spectacularly in this regard and we if she wants to be an orthopaedic surgeon
need to learn from them—not because she should not be thwarted.
women need orthopaedics, but because While I admire Germaine Greer’s
orthopaedics needs women for its own 1 contribution to the women’s cause and
scientific advancement. was delighted to be with her at the
When I was at medical school in India 2019 Margaret River Readers & Writers
a professor told us that in medicine there Festival, I do not agree with her statement
are three gods one could pursue – the that women have very little idea of how much
god of wealth, the god of service or the men hate them. It is more a case of women
god of knowledge. Orthopaedics offers having very little idea about how much
the chance to follow all of them. There is men fear them. Men who are on the top
plenty of opportunity for research, you of their game do not feel threatened by
can take your services to areas where they women because they rest safe in their
may be put to good use, and the financial identity. However, it is the insecure, the
rewards are satisfying. 2 immature and the intimidated man who
Through my book Slice Girls, I hope exhibits a great degree of infantilism
to effect change in the surgical world, especially at work and appear to be
especially orthopaedics, to make the path fighting the girl germs. In the surgical
easier for women considering this career. world it is well known that women make
I hope that female talents can flourish as good or perhaps even better surgeons
unobstructed by outdated male attitudes. than men. They have fewer complications,
Things are beginning to change but lower morbidity and mortality rates and
there is a long way to go. When more they generally exhibit greater compassion.
women enter the field and there is more Being ethical in their approach, they
competition, I hope that the mediocrity 3 provide affordable healthcare. Specialities
that has hitherto been fostered will give that have embraced women and diversity
way to excellence. I look forward to universally show a greater commitment to
future generations of women who will science and research. It is these qualities in
infuse orthopaedics with science and women that intimidate some men.
research and thereby transform its current We most definitely should not strive
male-dominated practice as a trade, into to be like men, for then we would be
a modern scientific discipline. Modern selling ourselves short. We just need to
notions of meritocracy which encourage be ourselves.
inclusion of all genders and races should All I ask is let girls be girls while they
distinguish modern orthopaedics from its pursue their dreams unobstructed, and
past associations with medieval quackery. 4 most importantly let us celebrate their
My book may be about orthopaedics femininity. Allow them to maintain their
but women in many professions have feminism, but I do not want to be equal identity in workplaces and not strive for
similar experiences. Women who have to a man. Men and women are different, success as defined in the masculine world.
embraced their traditional roles while also right down to the cellular and molecular Women young and old have more to
venturing into unorthodox spaces are level and so are different intellectually, offer than they realise. G
mostly driven by their passion and their physically, emotionally and in our
desire to make a difference in society. capabilities. Our differences are not just
1: L-R Cameron Chaikin, Rikke Hartington,
I have in recent years had reason to confined to our reproductive function. Charlotte Arbuthnott, Isabella Mohr,
reflect on the role that gender plays in We should avoid valuing women on male Angelina Pancottine
2: L-R Lorenza Praino, Dr Joan Arakkal,
Orthopaedics and the product of that terms. Women bring a dynamism that is Genevieve Victor
reflection is the book Slice Girls published different to the one brought by men and 3: L-R Taylah Hanks, Rebecca Dunsdon,
Mackenzie Gumley, Georgina Williams
by Impact Press. I daresay that women have sustained life 4: L-R Allegra Mazza-Parton, Briana
Slice Girls has been referred to as and the integrity of the planet in a more Davies-Morrell, Cicely Melina
a feminist reflection, yet my brand of conscious fashion. We are life givers, not
feminism is somewhat different in its life takers. Everyone has their strengths
socio-political context. ‘Equality” is the and if we played to them, women would
operational word for this third wave of not be seeking equality.
SUMMER 2019-2020 15Rodgers Wing and Arcus Court Update
Rodgers Wing and
Arcus Court Update
The building of the Rodgers
Wing is nearing full
completion. The College’s
Administration has already
moved to its new location.
Guests at this year’s 50 Year Club Lunch
were treated to a tour of the new building
– all appreciated the benefits of the wide
balconies, the rooms and common rooms,
and enjoyed the views of the river, the
College garden and the Original Wing.
The Rodgers Wing will bring many
benefits to the College and we’re excited
that it will soon be filled with residents.
16 SUMMER 2019-2020Rodgers Wing and Arcus Court Update SUMMER 2019-2020 17
Medical Formal Dinner: Dr Peter Annear and Dr Graham Forward
Medical Formal Dinner:
Dr Peter Annear and Dr Graham Forward
Our guests at the Formal Dinner
on 22nd August were eminent
orthopaedic surgeons Dr Peter
Annear and Dr Graham Forward.
Both speakers gave a fascinating
insight into what had supported
their current success and the
opportunities their careers are
now affording them.
Peter Annear specialises in knee
reconstructions and conducts knee
assessments and surgery for the West
Coast Eagles and the Australian Women’s
Hockey team. His talk had several key
points. Firstly, that success in life requires
finding effective techniques to deal with
stress. He noted the importance of doing
activities with no connection to study or
career to balance the inevitable stress and
to gain perspective. Any passions that L-R Sean Fitzpatrick (2015), Emma Chaplyn (2016), Graham Forward, Peter Annear
took a person away from their work were
valuable additions to their lives, in his everything. But he promised that in his which grew out of his and Jacqueline’s
view. He emphasised the importance of experience ‘the harder you work, the eclectic holiday travels, where they took
exercise and social activities, discussing luckier you get’. As a general registrar, their medical equipment and offered
how keeping up with his football training Peter worked hard to impress senior their services wherever they were
even during exams had been essential to doctors in his efforts to be selected for the needed. Consequently, they were asked
his studies. He also urged students not to competitive orthopaedic training program. for assistance in Somalia to help treat
be afraid to reach out for help when they This included spending his weekends off people after the Indian Ocean tsunami
don’t feel great. assisting senior colleagues in operations of December 2004. Raising money in
His second key point was to back to gain the surgical experience he Australia to provide aid and to ship over
yourself in taking a different path to your was lacking. equipment and supplies meant creating an
cohort if you are passionate about it. After His final piece of advice to the organisation that could keep records, open
completing his medical degree, Peter took audience was to enjoy what they did and a bank account and be held accountable
a year off to backpack around Europe, make sure they really wanted to be there. for the use of that money. As a result,
against the advice that this could impact Medicine is full of challenges, but he ADFA was established in 2005, and is
negatively on his career. He thinks that promised ‘if you like the job, you’ll never the only WA-based Non-Government
in hindsight, however, it was one of the work a day in your life.’ Organisation (NGO) accredited by the
best decisions he could have made. It Graham Forward had a different Australian Department of Foreign Affairs
gave him experiences that he would have perspective to share. He has worked in and Trade (DFAT).
had difficulty gaining later, once he was orthopaedics since 1986, specialising Graham enthused about the
fully immersed in his specialist training in hip and knee replacements. But he wonderful work the organisation does,
and career. Furthermore, it gave him the and his wife Jacqueline Gilmour have their programs and approach. It has
perspective to clarify what he wanted to also developed significant humanitarian grown from providing basic medical
do with his medical career. He returned interests, founding a not-for-profit treatment, to deepening partnerships
to Perth after his travels and single- humanitarian aid organisation, Australian with local communities by establishing
mindedly set his sights on getting into the Doctors for Africa (ADFA). ADFA increasingly in-depth training programs
orthopaedic training program. does impressive work treating, training, for local medical staff; renovating and
Thirdly, Peter warned that there is equipping and providing public health equipping local hospitals and clinics;
no way around hard work. There are initiatives across a range of medical helping to establish community health
always times where there is nothing else specialties in Madagascar, Ethiopia, initiatives like early screening programs
to be done but work hard to reach the Somaliland and Comoros. Graham spoke and immunisation programs; and helping
goal, setting out a plan and giving it with passion about the organisation, to improve local infrastructure critical
18 SUMMER 2019-2020You can also read
