Ridley House News

At the start of the term, I introduced the boys to Keith Jarratt, the great jazz pianist and Brian Eno, the legendary music producer. Brian Eno developed a set of cards called “Oblique Strategies” which were intended to challenge how a performer would think about creating music. “Heroes” by David Bowie is a well-known example of Eno influencing Bowie. Keith Jarrett’s brilliant recording, “The Koln Concert”, which is still the best-selling piano concert album and the best-selling solo jazz album, in history, is the result of Jarrett actually playing in the Koln Opera House on a sub-standard, partially broken piano.

The point of both stories was that obstacles can be helpful. Obstacles shouldn’t be avoided as they can force us out of our comfort zones and in so doing, cause us to become more alert and to focus more acutely. Obstacles can push us to be better. So, don’t get others to fight your battles. Accept the challenge.

The Ridley House “Coveted Black Feather Award” was recently presented by Tom Dempsey to Jim Bradford and Ryan Mullin from Year 8. Both boys, without being asked, stayed behind after a year level activity and made sure the area that we were using was left spotless. Thanks, Jim and Ryan.

This season’s AIC sports have been massively impacted by weather. But representing the College at the top level from Ridley House are:

1st XV – Patrick Tierney, Jack Billings, Tom Howard

1st XI – James Atkins, Nico Calabrese, Will McGauley

Cross-Country – Liam Maccormick, Matt Pimm, Sasha Sofronoff

In other sports congratulations on selections go to: Oliver Shinkel (Met North Hockey), Frank Atkinson (NW Rugby League).

Whilst on Sport, The Slattery House Theatre Sports competition had been running this term and our Ridley team consisting of Tom Dempsey, Hugh McCann, Cooper Hafiz, Jude Knapp, Crus Day, Cooper Price and Al Boland, have made it to the final to be held on Champagnat Day.

Recently we have had the Year 7 Celebration Days. The Ridley boys participated in; high ropes and zip lines at Mt Tamborine, a team-building day held at the College and bike riding, abseiling and rock climbing at Kangaroo Point. Thanks also to Year 11 students: Jude Knapp, Hunter James and Tobias Graham for their help.