Term 2 has begun with a flurry of student activities, all of which reflect the energy and endeavour of a vibrant student community. It is always uplifting to observe the capacity of our girls for leadership and collaboration.

House Athletics saw House spirit and colours flying high. Senior girls encouraged their youngest Merton Hall sisters to give their all and Year 12 visibly enjoyed the day. This set the tone for a term of uplifting community experiences.

Last week finished with the first round of the inaugural Domain Cup: MGGS vs MGS! Star Search was a student run (and judged) event that showcased a diverse array of talent from both schools. I thoroughly enjoyed every act, however I was very entertained by the Year 12 K-Pop group, who took their global dance-inspired act to third place and provided a fantastic encore to complete the evening of entertainment. I cannot wait for the remaining two competitions and may the best teams win (and have a super amount of fun along the way!).

1st: Alexandria T.
2nd: Tom G. 
3rd: Year 12 K-Pop group – Ellen K., Tiffany N., Andrea Y, Nonon L. and Christy L.

Our Junior Years girls hosted me last week at their Science Fair. Privileged to be led through the exhibits by Julia A. and Ava N., I was intrigued by the variety and maturity of the work. Solar powered elevators, wind powered cars and sustainable house designs are but a few examples of the girls’ application to this annual challenge. Please click on this link to view Science Fair images.

The Class of 2016 continue to be acknowledged for their incredible achievements. The Premier’s VCE Awards recognise the outstanding results of individual students and we congratulate our scholars:

Annabel Holt: Top All-Round VCE High Achiever; Classical Studies
Lilian Nicholls: Psychology
Phoebe Fitzpatrick: Further Mathematics
Naomi Kirkwood: Equine Studies (VCE VET)
Angela Gong (Year 12, 2017): Music Performance

Anisija Gillian and Alysia Bastas (OGs, 2016) have each been awarded a 2017 Monash Scholarship for Excellence from Monash University. Selection is based on academic achievement and offered to the highest-achieving students. They are well deserving of such success and we wish them well in their studies in medicine.

Our current Year 12 girls and their mums attended the June Fowell mother-daughter dinner last week, a tremendously happy event. The guest speaker, Dr Chantel Thornton, was outstanding. She generously shared her life story and the fascinating journey of personal discovery that has led to her current career. Chantel is a world leading breast surgeon and participates in an enormous array of professional and philanthropic activities. Her stand out advice to the girls was to “keep their lives broad”, not succumb to social pressure to maximize their VCE scores at the expense of all else, and understand that future employers want (and need) people with depth of personal attributes who are resilient and adaptable. Pictured is Dr Chantel Thornton with Year 12 students. 

This is National Volunteer Week, a great opportunity to acknowledge and thank all who give of their time and talents to support the MGGS community of girls, parents and staff. We are truly grateful for the countless hours our volunteers provide ensuring that all that we aspire to do we can. Thank you!