Reflecting on the activities of our School over this past year, we cannot fail to recognise the contributions of those who put in considerable commitment behind the scenes. The people who quietly volunteer their time, expertise, and energy – our huge family of supporters – are crucial to making sure we can achieve what we set out to do and I am incredibly grateful for their fine contributions.
The wisdom and breadth of experience across members of the School Council is exceptional. Importantly, along with attending formal meetings, they are often just a phone call away when we need their advice on issues arising, and many draw on their own professional networks to provide additional guidance.
Some Council members also lead or serve on a Council Committee. Our Buildings and Grounds Committee is just one example, bringing together decades of experience from the commercial realm that ensures any building activities carried out at the School are efficient, successful, and make the most of our limited space.
Just as important is the support of those who bring our community together. This includes parent groups such as Friends of Grammar, as well as groups like the Melburnia Club which aims to unite parents, Old Melburnians and others around the common interest of rowing. Groups such as these are an invaluable point of connection. They help build a sense of ownership in our School and pride in its achievements.
Old Melburnians also play a key role across many areas, from those who mentor our students or other Old Melburnians, to those who simply lend a helping hand to others in need. Then, of course, there is the contribution of many parents who provide often unseen support such as assisting reading programs in classrooms, helping boarders with transport to Saturday sport, and countless other examples of day-to-day service. These are the people who see an issue and don’t walk past it. Their sense of belonging matters, perhaps more today than ever before.
I would like to formally acknowledge all of the members of our School community who have been so generous with their time and energy during 2022. Thank you for your involvement and support. It has been very much appreciated.
As 2022 draws to a close, I would also like to take the opportunity to recognise Mary Clark, who retires from School Council after 12 years of dedicated service. A past parent and indefatigable presence on our Council, Mary also served as Chair of the Marketing and Communications Committee (now Community Relations Committee).
During her time in leadership roles, Mary passed on her passion and enthusiasm to a number of other women who are now making their own contributions to Council.
Mary was Deputy Chair of School Council for the past two years, and we welcome Geoff Cohen as he steps into that role.
Finally, I would like to welcome Lorenzo Bresciani (OM 1985), who joins as a new member of the Council, and will serve as Chair of the Community Relations Committee. Lorenzo is a well respected, highly experienced brand strategist who has already offered his insights and
expertise to the Community Relations Committee for the past six years. We look forward to his continued contribution.
Andrew Michelmore AO
Chair of Council
