From the OGA
Welcome to the latest edition of the Old Girtonians' Association Newsletter, Under the Peppercorn Tree, where we look back on the events of the year 2023.
In honour of Girton Grammar School’s 30th anniversary in 2023, the Old Girtonians’ Association (OGA) held a 30-Year Anniversary Reunion for staff, board, alumni and special friends at St Anne’s Winery in Big Hill. The occasion allowed for friendships to be rekindled, memories to be relived and new connections to be forged, strengthening the bonds of our Girton family.
As custodians of the school's history, the OGA plays a vital role in preserving and sharing its legacy, and was thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome our founders back to Girton for interviews with Southern Cross Austereo that have been used to produce a commemorative documentary: The Girton Grammar Story. The documentary captures the remarkable journey of creating the school and sheds light on its initial years. The OGA sponsored the production of the documentary as its primary contribution to the school in 2023, and it stands as a testament to the founders’ perseverance and belief in the transformative power of education. For those who would like to watch this remarkable documentary detailing Girton’s journey through hardship to the stars, a link is provided in the 30-Year Anniversary article later in this newsletter.
In 2023, the OGA hosted eight reunion events, bringing together Old Girtonians from all over Australia. It also hosted the annual OGA Careers event on 20 May 2023, which provided Year 12 students with valuable insights into three different industries. This year’s guest speakers were Old Girtonians Will Griffin, a lawyer; Jessica Robertson, a quality and risk consultant; and Steven Maharaj, a quantitative trader.
The 2023 OGA Departing Girtonian Scholarship was awarded to Zoe MacGregor (12 Riley) at the Valedictory Dinner. Each year, the OGA grants this $2,500 scholarship to a departing student who embodies the values of an Old Girtonian, having demonstrated commitment and enthusiasm to all aspects of the curriculum, co-curriculum and community service. Zoe has done just that, having immersed herself in every aspect of Girton life and playing an instrumental role in updating the School’s SunSmart Policy during her final year of schooling. When it comes to her life beyond Girton, Zoe has set her sights on helping others by studying medicine, and her scholarship will support her in pursuing her dream of studying in Melbourne.
At the end of Term 4, the OGA presented an Honorary Associate Lifetime Membership to Ms Debbie Adams, Ms Anita Briggs, Mrs Kendra Burge, Mr Scott Langan and Ms Kristi Mitchell in recognition of their 20 years of outstanding service to Girton Grammar School. Board member Mrs Robyn Lindsay also received an Associate Life Membership to the OGA in recognition of her three years of service to the Board. Furthermore, the OGA was delighted to award academic prizes to 10 students who crossed the stage on Speech Night, and will continue to support students in their pursuit of academic excellence.
As we concluded the celebration of Girton Grammar School's 30th anniversary, we interviewed our founders for a 'Where Are They Now' feature in this edition of Under the Peppercorn Tree, where we look back on the influence of this brave group in preserving the legacy of Girton.
In 2024, we acknowledge another important milestone as we commemorate 140 years since the establishment of Girton College. Founded by Mrs Aherne and Miss Hill (later Mrs Millward) in 1884, the school has continued to provide a high-quality education to prepare its students for a meaningful and fulfilling life. The OGA is dedicated to honouring this rich history by creating a timeline of Girton's journey, which will be showcased on the OGA website for all to see.
In 2024, we look forward to another wonderful year filled with opportunities to reunite with our members at a full calendar of events and reunions.
Ms Kristi Mitchell
OGA Alumni Manager
Stay connected
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