It is truly amazing how bright the night stars are with a crescent moon, and no cloud whilst nestled in the dark bush of the Victorian alpine country. It reminds us that we are part of something much bigger.

As I write this, I am currently on Year 10 Sailing Camp at Lake Nilahcootie. This camp is part of our outdoor education suite for our Grammarians. In Year 10, our students choose from a Surfing Camp at Lorne., a Farm Camp at Charnwood, or a Sailing Camp at Nillahcootie. It is day three and our Grammarians are having fun. They are an intrepid lot and to watch their skill level improve in all things sailing, canoeing, camping, bush cooking and independence has been very impressive. I have even been able to find some native grass to the area called Lomandra Longifolia, and methodically weave in the Yolngu style whilst in the quieter times. This camp is a natural scaffolded progression of difficulty, and it pleases me to see our Grammarians loving the Australian bush and understanding themselves a little more. I simply love watching them grow and building close friendships. I can’t wait to hear the stories from the other camps this week. Next week, our Year 4 students head to Angahook  Camp in Aireys Inlet and in Week 3 our Year 8 Grammarians will head to the Grampians. Later in the Term, Year 9 will travel to Northeast Arnhem Land. It is all systems go for outdoor education at MGGS. Thank you to all the staff who have accompanied our Grammarians and heartfelt gratitude to our expert Outdoor Education Educator, Clementine Heath, for leading the expeditions. Her experience, and deep wisdom in this space is invaluable.

I hope you enjoyed the Easter holiday break, and we are pleased to welcome all Grammarians back to a busy and exciting Term 2. Our term commenced with parent teacher interviews and staff professional learning. One of our Staff Professional Learning sessions featured a dialogue with Dr Jey Han Lau, Associate Professor at The University of Melbourne, and Luke Francis, Director of MGGI. Dr Lau delivered insightful perspectives on the limitations of AI, emerging trends in its use in education, and the importance of approaching AI-generated information with curiosity and scepticism. A key message from the session was that while AI is a powerful tool, it cannot replace human learning, judgment and critical thinking. Our staff responded with great enthusiasm, contributing thoughtful questions and reflections throughout the session. The discussion sparked rich dialogue and has further extended our school’s ongoing exploration of the role of AI in teaching and education.

It gives me great pleasure to announce the appointment of Joanne McKenzie to the role of Executive Director, Marketing and Community Engagement. Joanne brings significant leadership experience in the education sector across marketing, enrolments and community engagement. She is recognised for her collaborative approach, strategic vision and ability to connect meaningfully with a broad range of stakeholders.

Joanne has a long-standing connection to the MGGS community and a deep understanding of the School’s traditions, values and culture, having previously worked as a teacher and member of the Executive Team. This experience provides her with unique insight into the importance of honouring the School’s heritage while supporting continued growth, innovation and future-focused thinking. In her role, Joanne will lead marketing, communications and community engagement across the School, supporting strong partnerships with families, Old Grammarians and the wider community. Passionate about the importance of girls’ education, Joanne looks forward to working with families, staff, students and Old Grammarians to support the continued growth and success of the School. Joanne has held senior positions in engagement roles across the independent school sector in Victoria and is a graduate of the University of Melbourne and a graduate and member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

In closing, a reminder about the shared role we have in ensuring our Grammarians wear their winter uniform well. Please make sure skirt lengths are appropriate and that blazers have been cleaned, and are worn daily. Now is a good time for our Grammarians to practise tying their tie so that it sits neatly at collar level. Our Sub Schools will be following up with uniform infringements for students failing to wear our beautiful MGGS uniform correctly. Students have been spoken to at Assembly and in year level groups about the importance of uniform pride and representing their School well.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the Mother’s Day Luncheon on Friday 8 May.

Yours in learning,

Dr Toni E. Meath
Principal