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Class of 2023: 1 Year Reunion
The Girton Grammar Class of 2023 and those who would have graduated in 2023 are warmly invited to the GPO Bar and Restaurant in Bendigo for a night of friendship and fun. The event will officially start at 6pm with finger food provided and drinks available at bar prices. Date: Friday 29th November 2024 Time: 6:00pm til late Venue: GPO Bar & Restaurant Book now via: https://www.trybooking.com/CWKBE
The Making of a Violin Virtuoso: Evie Matthews’ path from classrooms to stadiums
When Evangeline (Evie) Matthews graduated from Girton in 2014, she knew her passion for music and performing arts would shape her future. Now, with a viral video performance to her name and a dynamic career as a musician and business owner, the former Frewian reflects on how her journey has unfolded with unexpected turns and remarkable milestones. Evie’s recent performance of ‘Seven Nation Army’ at the A-League Men’s Melbourne Derby at AAMI Park caught her by surprise. Booked through her corporate manager, she had no idea she’d be playing to a roaring crowd of over 20,000 fans at one of Australia’s biggest football matches. Her electrifying rendition went viral, drawing over 2 million views and catapulting her into a whirlwind of media attention, including an interview on The Today Show. “It was absolutely invigorating,” she shares. “Never in a million years did I imagine performing in a stadium, let alone going viral. It’s been a tremendous blessing for both my work and my brand.” The performance has since led to multiple invites to perform with the A-League and an ongoing partnership with Melbourne Victory FC. Reflecting on her path to success, Evie credits the encouragement and guidance she received from the staff in Girton’s Arts Faculty. “It truly takes a village,” she explains. “Each teacher brought their own unique strengths and perspectives, nurturing my development and honing my craft in different ways. Their ongoing support throughout my schooling – and even after graduation – has been invaluable, shaping not only my musical journey but also my passion for the arts.” After Girton, Evie pursued further studies in the arts at the University of Melbourne, spending her first year at the Victorian College of the Arts in a foundation course for music theatre, followed by four years in the Bachelor of Music Performance program at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, majoring in violin and viola. This training equipped her with a solid foundation and the technical skills needed to thrive in her industry. Alongside her studies, Evie participated in Orchestra Victoria’s mentorship program and performed as a freelance violinist, gaining experience performing in orchestras, bands, musicals and operas across the state. This led her to a range of exciting opportunities, such as being the on-stage violinist for the premiere season of Ned: A New Australian Musical; working with creatives from the National Institute of Circus Arts and Cirque Du Soleil; and performing alongside top-tier artists Damien Leith, Conrad Sewell and, more recently, Kygo and Tiesto. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift in focus. During lockdown, Evie became a certified health and fitness coach and worked with clients online to help them achieve their fitness goals. This role proved to be a “game-changer”, giving her the skills and confidence she needed to take the next step in her music career. After restrictions eased, Evie took a leap of faith in founding her business, Evangeline Victoria Music. It was a risk that has proven immensely rewarding, with the business winning ‘Victoria’s Best Wedding Musician’ at the Australian Bridal Industry Academy Awards for the last three years. Evie’s dedication to her craft and her adventurous spirit have continued to open new doors. Most recently, she completed a European tour that saw her perform at 17 weddings and events in 23 cities. She is already planning next year’s Euro tour, while working towards her goal of owning her own home by 2025. As she and her partner focus on their careers and business, she remains excited for the journey ahead and is deeply grateful for the countless connections and experiences her career has brought her. “The opportunities that have come my way have been overwhelming in the best possible way, and I am beyond grateful,” she says. “I’m incredibly excited to see where this journey leads next!” www.evangelinevictoriamusic.com.au
From Music Tutor to Legal Professional: The Journey of a Girtonian Lawyer
In a world where career paths often take unexpected twists and turns, there are individuals who defy the conventional trajectory and embrace the opportunities that come their way. Meet Will Griffin, a lawyer hailing from Frew House and Girton’s graduating class of 2015. While his journey began with a passion for music and science, fate had a different plan. Today, he stands as a prominent figure in the legal landscape, with a passion for justice and advocating for those in need. With a solid educational foundation from Girton, Will embarked on his academic journey at La Trobe University. After studying Biology, Chemistry, Further Maths, Business Management, English Language, Music Styles and Composition, his career path seemed destined for the scientific or musical realm. However, life had surprises in store, leading him to pursue tertiary studies in law and business. Little did he know that these seemingly “odd choices” would shape his future in ways he never anticipated. Since leaving Girton, Will has woven a tapestry of experiences, ranging from being a music tutor and volunteering at community legal centres to taking on leadership roles within the legal and university community. “I was Chair of the Bendigo Student Association (BSA) during a changing era in the university sector with some very difficult, political and financial circumstances that placed significant pressure on the organisation, its staff and therefore the students it served,” said Will. “The BSA was responsible for the student life and essential student services at the Bendigo campus at La Trobe….couple those issues with the beginning of a pandemic and you had the perfect storm.” Will was inspired by the challenges faced by Girton itself in 1992 and 1993, which strengthened his determination to find a better way and support the needs of students. Will along with a project team sought to find a better way and together embarked on a road trip across La Trobe’s campuses, engaging with students and crafting a vision for a unified and robust association that was sustainable and could support students across the State – the La Trobe Student Association was born from these challenges and the small project team was tasked with the writing of the company constitution, company policies and procedures and hiring of some twenty staff to ensure that students at La Trobe had a strong and viable organisation that could deliver student services across the state. “I am proud to say that organisation still runs to this day and continues fulfilling the mission of making student life better for students in Albury, Mildura, Shepparton, Bendigo and Melbourne,” said Will. Today, as a lawyer, Will finds great fulfilment in his work, particularly within the realm of family law. “I enjoy my work as it affects people’s lives deeply,” he said. “I am passionate about taking a connected partnership with clients, instilling them with the assurance and confidence to advance their lives beyond their legal issues.” It is through his passion for justice and his dedication to making a positive impact that he continues to shape the lives of those he represents. Life after Girton has been filled with transformative experiences and personal growth. Alongside his professional achievements, Will has travelled the world, exploring new cultures and forging lasting connections. In August, he plans to embark on a solo journey to the UK, where he will reunite with fellow Girtonians and create memories that further strengthen the bonds formed during their time at School. Will’s journey from Girton to becoming a lawyer today exemplifies the essence of embracing unexpected opportunities. His diverse experiences, determination, and passion for justice have shaped his career and left a lasting impact on the lives of those he serves. Will’s story serves as a reminder that the most remarkable journeys often begin with embracing unexpected opportunities. Will with parents Stephen and Kerrie at the “Admission to Legal Practice” lunch in Melbourne On holiday in Nusa Lembongan Island Indonesia with fellow Old Girtonians Brandon, Zac, Jarrod, Liam, Lewis, Hugh, Emma and Maeve Will with Melissa Buchanan, Director of Reign Legal, at the Community Cancer Wellness Ball in Bendigo
How to Make a Baby
Audrey Scott (Jenkin, 2011) always wanted to work in maternal and foetal health. Still, she did not imagine her job would involve creating human life, which is how she now spends her days as a clinical embryologist at Monash IVF. Audrey describes her career as highly rewarding and says the circuitous route that led her to work in a laboratory to create embryos has been a valuable part of her career journey. “I thought I would end up working as an obstetrician or paediatric doctor, but I am much happier working in my highly specialised field because my role helps give hope and provide patients with a family when they might otherwise have been without hope or options. “The world of Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART) also helps the LGBTIQA+ community with sperm and egg freezing for transitioning/preserving fertility, and helping create families with donated sperm and/or eggs, and surrogacy. “We can help oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy preserve fertility through egg and sperm freezing. We can also perform genetic testing on embryos, which helps prevent devastating genetic disorders from being passed on to children,” Audrey said. Audrey has undertaken four formal courses of study since leaving Girton. Initially, she completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at Deakin University, followed by two years of a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Wollongong. “For several reasons, medicine was not the path I was meant to tread, but I am very proud of myself for getting into it (an achievement in itself), and I have no regrets about the journey that led me there. “I made lots of wonderful friends, and I don’t ever ask myself “what if”, which is satisfying,” she said. When Audrey returned to Melbourne, she completed a Graduate Diploma of Reproductive Science (Monash University), her first taste of the embryology world. It included learning about Artificial Reproductive Technology (ART) for animal conservation of endangered species and for commercial sales, such as in the bovine industry, where sperm from prized stud bulls is collected and frozen using ART techniques for commercial sale worldwide. Audrey’s focus on embryonics then turned to humans when she undertook a Masters in Clinical Embryology (Monash University), where her studies focussed on human reproductive technology, including medicine, hormones, and the many skills required in the lab to create embryos, including insemination, handling, freezing, thawing, and embryo transfer. “Embryologists require excellent hand-eye coordination, as most of our work is performed in humidicribs (so we can mimic the uterine environment as much as possible) with microscopes and micro-manipulators, so it is incredibly detailed and delicate work,” Audrey said. Audrey commenced at Girton in Year 6 in 2005 and graduated in 2011. She completed a 3-month exchange to Bordeaux, France, at the end of Year 10 and was a Senior Prefect in Year 12. Audrey had two favourite teachers. “It’s a tie between Dr Harvey (now O’Rielly) for Biology and Ms Ryan for Chemistry. I love science, and their passion and dedication to the field encouraged me to push myself and strive for perfection, which serves me well in my career. “Also, having such talented female mentors for ‘women in STEM’ is powerful, and it was incredibly exciting to see them succeed in the industry. “At Girton, I never felt that such a path was unachievable or unattainable for me because I was a woman, and my Girton teachers helped set me up with all the tools, encouragement, and mentors needed to forge my own path in the industry,” she said. Audrey has lived and studied in Geelong, Wollongong, and Melbourne over the past 11 years. Her main part-time job during undergrad studies was as a fromagère for delicatessens in Barwon Heads and Bendigo. A Francophile at heart, Audrey enjoyed the break from heavy science/ medicine studies. “Working in a role where I could sell cheese to customers and discuss and learn about wine and charcuterie pairings was a relief. Working in the food industry when you are a poor uni student is always a smart idea because the free meals help a lot with budgeting.” Audrey says that her career highlight to date is the first pregnancy achieved from an embryo transfer she completed. “It was incredibly exciting. The patient is currently still pregnant, and I look forward to seeing the notes in her file when she (hopefully) delivers her baby in a few months. “Before COVID, patients would sometimes bring their babies into the clinic so we could meet the little humans that we made from the sperm and eggs in the lab. I hope these visits will start up again one day. “Patients still send in photos which are shared between the nurses, doctors, and embryologists, because everyone has a role to play in helping that new human be created; it’s a moment of shared joy for everyone involved,” she said. Audrey currently lives with her partner in Melbourne in an apartment they are renovating. She recently gave her time to share her personal and professional life with Year 12 students at an OGA Careers Event. Audrey and her partner Alexander Audrey with her parents Robert and Marina at her Master’s Graduation, 2021 Audrey with her parents and two sisters
The Making of a Violin Virtuoso: Evie Matthews’ path from classrooms to stadiums
When Evangeline (Evie) Matthews graduated from Girton in 2014, she knew her passion for music and performing arts would shape her future. Now, with a viral video performance to her name and a dynamic career as a musician and business owner, the former Frewian reflects on how her journey has unfolded with unexpected turns and remarkable milestones. Evie’s recent performance of ‘Seven Nation Army’ at the A-League Men’s Melbourne Derby at AAMI Park caught her by surprise. Booked through her corporate manager, she had no idea she’d be playing to a roaring crowd of over 20,000 fans at one of Australia’s biggest football matches. Her electrifying rendition went viral, drawing over 2 million views and catapulting her into a whirlwind of media attention, including an interview on The Today Show. “It was absolutely invigorating,” she shares. “Never in a million years did I imagine performing in a stadium, let alone going viral. It’s been a tremendous blessing for both my work and my brand.” The performance has since led to multiple invites to perform with the A-League and an ongoing partnership with Melbourne Victory FC. Reflecting on her path to success, Evie credits the encouragement and guidance she received from the staff in Girton’s Arts Faculty. “It truly takes a village,” she explains. “Each teacher brought their own unique strengths and perspectives, nurturing my development and honing my craft in different ways. Their ongoing support throughout my schooling – and even after graduation – has been invaluable, shaping not only my musical journey but also my passion for the arts.” After Girton, Evie pursued further studies in the arts at the University of Melbourne, spending her first year at the Victorian College of the Arts in a foundation course for music theatre, followed by four years in the Bachelor of Music Performance program at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, majoring in violin and viola. This training equipped her with a solid foundation and the technical skills needed to thrive in her industry. Alongside her studies, Evie participated in Orchestra Victoria’s mentorship program and performed as a freelance violinist, gaining experience performing in orchestras, bands, musicals and operas across the state. This led her to a range of exciting opportunities, such as being the on-stage violinist for the premiere season of Ned: A New Australian Musical; working with creatives from the National Institute of Circus Arts and Cirque Du Soleil; and performing alongside top-tier artists Damien Leith, Conrad Sewell and, more recently, Kygo and Tiesto. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift in focus. During lockdown, Evie became a certified health and fitness coach and worked with clients online to help them achieve their fitness goals. This role proved to be a “game-changer”, giving her the skills and confidence she needed to take the next step in her music career. After restrictions eased, Evie took a leap of faith in founding her business, Evangeline Victoria Music. It was a risk that has proven immensely rewarding, with the business winning ‘Victoria’s Best Wedding Musician’ at the Australian Bridal Industry Academy Awards for the last three years. Evie’s dedication to her craft and her adventurous spirit have continued to open new doors. Most recently, she completed a European tour that saw her perform at 17 weddings and events in 23 cities. She is already planning next year’s Euro tour, while working towards her goal of owning her own home by 2025. As she and her partner focus on their careers and business, she remains excited for the journey ahead and is deeply grateful for the countless connections and experiences her career has brought her. “The opportunities that have come my way have been overwhelming in the best possible way, and I am beyond grateful,” she says. “I’m incredibly excited to see where this journey leads next!” www.evangelinevictoriamusic.com.au
Girton celebrates 140 years of history
Girton has proudly celebrated 140 years of history today, marking the milestone with a vibrant whole-school anniversary event. Students, staff and special guests were captivated by stories tracing the school’s extraordinary journey and the individuals who contributed to its survival and success, before enjoying the premiere of a moving video commemorating Girton’s 140-year legacy. The festivities also included a special blessing by one of the Bendigo Chinese Association’s much-loved dragons, Gwong Loong. Having first appeared at the Bendigo Easter Fair in 1892, the city’s iconic dragons have been an integral part of its identity for nearly as long as Girton. Girton Grammar’s Principal, Dr Emma O’Rielly, who was one of the event’s keynote speakers, expressed her pride in the school’s enduring legacy. “The Girtonians of today feel incredibly fortunate to be the custodians of such a rich history, filled with inspirational stories of those who have paved the way for our generation,” she said. “Gathering together today, we were reminded that we are all a part of this living history, with our own opportunities to leave our mark on the school and our community.” Established as Girton College in 1884 by two visionary women, Mrs Marian Aherne and Miss Alice Hill, the school was founded with the bold mission of providing girls in the region with the opportunity to pursue a university education. Fittingly, they chose to name it in honour of Cambridge University’s Girton College, the UK’s first residential institution offering a university-level education for women. Throughout its 140 years, Girton has witnessed the unfolding of history: Federation, World Wars, periods of prosperity and times of economic hardship. From humble beginnings, the school has thrived despite facing numerous challenges, none greater than the decision by the Anglican Diocese to close Girton College in 1992. Through the unyielding determination and hard work of a group of courageous parents and supporters, the college was resurrected as Girton Grammar School in time for the following school year. While Girton has evolved in many ways – from a small girls’ college into a co-educational institution with significantly expanded enrolments and facilities – the school remains deeply connected to its founding principles. Girton’s cherished traditions, progressive outlook, caring community and reputation for academic excellence bind the schools of the past and present.
Class of 1974 Reunion
The graduating class of 1974 reunited for their 50th reunion on Friday 20th September, taking a stroll down memory lane with a school tour and a morning tea. Laughter filled the air as old stories were retold before venturing to Balgownie Winery for lunch. This lively and friendly group of Old Girtonians are welcome back to the school at any time.
Class of 1984 Reunion
It was a great time meeting the Class of 1984 at their 40 Year Reunion on Saturday 27th July. They may have been few in number, but they definitely made up for it with their vibrant personalities. The day started with a fun stroll down memory lane as we walked through the school grounds, listening to stories of life as boarders in the early 80s. There was much laughter and reflection as tales were told. The reunion continued into the evening for dinner at the Brougham Arms Hotel, where more former school friends joined the group and reconnected.