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The Haileyburian

SUMMER 2025
  • News
  • Campus Life
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OHA events

Hayley Berry

May 26, 2026 by Hayley Berry Leave a Comment

Recognising outstanding VCE achievement

The Class of 2025 shone brightly at the Honours Assembly as we celebrated their outstanding VCE results. Graduates and their families came together for a special morning tea in the Chapel, sharing in the joy of this remarkable milestone and the promise of bright futures ahead.  

Celebrating 40 and 45 years of friendship

Alumni from the Classes of 1981 and 1986 gathered to celebrate their 45-year and 40-year reunions. The evenings were filled with laughter, nostalgia and heartfelt reconnections as classmates reminisced about school days and shared life’s latest adventures. Here is to many more years of friendship and shared memories!  

Class of 1981

Class of 1986

An afternoon of cricket and camaraderie

The annual Former Cricketers Afternoon brought past players back to Rendall Oval to watch Haileybury’s First XI take on Geelong Grammar. Guests wandered the pitch, swapped stories of their playing days, and caught up with captain Siddhant and century-maker Brendan during a lively tea break. We also commemorated the 20th and 60th anniversaries of past cricket premierships with nostalgic team photos. Haileybury secured the win, rounding out a memorable afternoon of tradition, camaraderie and pride.  

Celebrating generations of Haileyburians

We thoroughly enjoyed celebrating our OHA generational families at wonderful events at the Berwick and Brighton campuses. Grandparents, parents, students and staff came together, including families proudly representing three generations of Haileyburians. 

Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast, family photos printed on cookies, and live music from Haileybury’s String Quartet. The events also featured inspiring reflections; at the Berwick breakfast from Mr John Twist, Berwick’s first Head of Campus, and at the Brighton breakfast from Mr Tom Crebbin (OH 1982), former staff member. 

We look forward to celebrating with our OHA Generational families at the City and Keysborough campuses on Wednesday, 29 July and Wednesday, 19 August respectively. 

Berwick Generations Breakfast

Brighton Generations Breakfast

HRS alumni gather for memorable Melbourne evening

Haileybury Rendall School (HRS) alumni and staff gathered at the Haileybury City campus for an evening of reconnection and celebration. Guests, including Craig and Kerry Glass and Janeanne Lee, shared stories and reminisced, highlighting the lifelong bonds formed through Haileybury.  

No matter your campus or where in the world you are, the OHA continues to support and celebrate our community.  

Berwick Generations Breakfast

Celebrating connection, inspiration and the power of women supporting women

OHA Councillors Abbey Leys (OH 2018) and Kiara Borgonha (OH 2021) hosted some of our amazing alumnae at a vibrant and inspiring lunch at the Monash Women’s Business Networking event to celebrate International Women’s Day.   

Keynote speaker Jo Stanley shared powerful insights on how women in business can spark meaningful cultural change and lead with impact.   

A special thanks to Grace Liang (OH 2009), Nicolette Kordos (OH 2010), Tatiana Devendranath (OH 2011), Barbara van der Merwe (OH 2015), Melanie Wong (OH 2015) and Jess Abraham (OH 2018) for your loyal and ongoing support of the OHA and Haileybury Foundation.  

Together, our alumnae community continues to connect, inspire, and lift each other up. 

Womens IWD lunch_v3

Young Professionals Networking Event – A night of connections, insights and career growth

What a fantastic evening at our Young Professionals Networking Event. Alumni came together to build meaningful connections, engaging conversations, broaden their networks and gain valuable insights from experienced industry leaders.   

A sincere thank you to the following mentors who helped make the evening such a huge success as well as young alumni who attended and left feeling inspired and equipped to take the next step in their journeys.  

Jess Abraham (OH 2018)   

Pavneet Arneja (OH 2006)  

James Bell (OH 1996)   

Warwick Bishop (OH 1987)   

David Chapman (OH 1986)   

Zaheed Evans (OH 1993)   

Clayton Ford (OH 1991)   

Ciara Hart (OH 2015)   

Lou Irving (OH 1968)   

Abbey Leys (OH 2018)   

Phil Marsh (OH 2007)   

Hugh Nicholson (OH 2007)  

Shankar Pillai (OH 2006)  

Paul Purcell (OH 2008)   

Laura Rabinovich (OH 2012)   

Darren Scammell (OH 1982)   

Matt Skehan (OH 2003) 

Berwick Generations Breakfast

The inaugural Roger Gerny Cup

Under clear skies and in perfect conditions, the first ever Roger Gerny Cup brought together two proud Old Haileybury clubs: the Cricket Club and the Football Club. The match celebrated Roger Gerny, who is the only player to have played 150 games for both clubs and is a well-respected member of the Haileybury sporting fraternity.   

Played on Rendall Oval, the spirited match showcased camaraderie and competitive flair, celebrating tradition as much as talent. In the end, it was the Football Club who claimed the first victory, etching their name into the Cup’s history in a memorable opening chapter.  

Roger Gerny Cup

Ken Phillips Day: A game of grit, glory and goals

The annual Ken Phillips Day was a spectacular showcase of talent, grit and school spirit. In a nail-biting, high-pressure clash, the First XVIII triumphed over the Under 19’s OHAFC team to claim the Cup. Both teams put on an impressive display, highlighting the boys’ pride in the Haileybury football program and the enduring strength of the Old Haileybury Football Club. It was wonderful to welcome Jill Phillips, Ken’s widow, who once again presented the cup.  

Ken Phillips Day

OHA and Foundation Archives event brings history to life

More than 30 Haileyburians gathered at Haileybury’s Jim Brown Centre in Keysborough for the OHA and Foundation Archives Event in May. It was a memorable morning, with guests taken on a fascinating journey through time as they explored highlights from Haileybury’s extensive archives collection, complemented by engaging presentations, a student-led school tour and a delicious morning tea. 

Cheers to ten years

The Class of 2016 enjoyed a fabulous evening celebrating their Ten Year Reunion in style at Valhalla. We thank them for staying connected with the OHA, and more importantly, each other. 

Class of 1966 celebrates 60 years on

Hosted by former OHA President Roger Holding (Class of 1966), the Class of 1966 gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone at their 60 Year Reunion. The occasion was made even more special by the presence of Mr Derek Scott and Mr Scott Doran. 

Filled with warmth, camaraderie and shared memories, the reunion left a lasting impression on all who attended. One member described it as “the best School reunion they have ever attended” and even suggested that planning should already begin for a “Sixty-Five Years On” celebration in 2031. 

OHA Wellbeing

 From awareness to action: cultivating compassion for mental health 

The OHA community came together at Haileybury Keysborough for OHA Wellbeing: From awareness to action: cultivating compassion for mental health with Old Haileyburian and Organisational Psychologist Hayden Fricke (OH 1984).  

With over 30 guests in attendance, Hayden shared powerful insights from his deeply personal book, ‘Compassion: A journey through love, loss and understanding of mental illness’. Drawing on both lived experience and more than four decades of professional practice, Hayden challenged attendees to move beyond curated “Instagram selves” and have real conversations that matter.  

Thank you to everyone who attended this meaningful and thought-provoking evening.  

Wellbeing with Hayden Fricke

Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.  

Upcoming events

Event

Darwin Chapter Dinner  

City Generations Breakfast 

Mornington Peninsula Luncheon 

Keysborough Generations Breakfast  

40 Years on Club Luncheon  

Class of 1996 30–Year Reunion 

Sunshine Coast Chapter Dinner  

Brisbane Chapter Dinner  

Golf Day  

Class of 1991 35-Year Reunion  

Canberra Chapter Dinner  

Sydney Chapter Dinner  

Class of 1976 50-Year Reunion

Clark Club Luncheon  

Perth Chapter Luncheon  

Class of 2021 5-Year Reunion 

Class of 2001 25-Year Reunion 

Class of 2006 20-Year Reunion 

Date

Wednesday, 22 July  

Wednesday, 29 July  

Sunday, 9 August         

Wednesday, 19 August  

Friday, 21 August  

Friday, 28 August  

Monday, 31 August  

Friday, 4 September     

Friday, 2 October  

Friday, 9 October  

Wednesday, 14 October   

Thursday, 15 October  

Friday, 23 October  

Friday, 23 October  

Sunday, 25 October  

Friday, 6 November  

Friday, 13 November  

Friday, 20 November  

Filed Under: OHA

June 2, 2026 by Hayley Berry Leave a Comment

Two floats in two years at Moomba

Being selected to have a design transformed into a parade float is a special honour and remarkably, Candeece, Year 6, has achieved this twice. Her creative talents have been recognised on two separate occasions with her designs having been chosen for Melbourne’s beloved Moomba parade. 

Candeece entered her designs at the Moomba design-a-float competition, which is a popular and voluntary activity at Melbourne’s Moomba Festival. Entrants are invited to submit creative drawings for a chance for them to be built and showcased in the Moomba parade the following year. It is a competition that encourages the community to use their imaginations and get creative. 

“You would draw your design on your sheet, then turn it in. That is how I got involved,” explains Candeece. 

When Candeece submitted a design as part of the activities at the 2023 Moomba Festival, she did it for fun and did not expect that it would be chosen to be built.  

However, the originality and charm of her design, which featured cute dumplings, caught the eye of organisers. As a result, her design was selected to be built as a float titled “Dumplings” for the 2024 Moomba Parade.  

Sadly, as extreme weather conditions caused the Moomba Parade to be cancelled that year, Candeece’s float, along with others, never had the chance to be enjoyed by the 2024 Moomba crowds.  

In 2025, Candeece decided to enter the competition again, for a second chance at having her float design feature in the Moomba parade. This time she was inspired by her interest in origami. “I chose this because I just learned how to draw those 3D shapes on paper, and I only drew them for fun. I wasn’t expecting it to actually become something special,” explains Candeece. 

Photo credit: City of Melbourne  & Brendan Beckett Photography

Once again, her design was selected to be brought to life and this time her float titled “Shapes and Scribbles” featured in the March 2026 Moomba parade.  

She is delighted that her drawings have become real and have moved from a simple piece of paper to being transformed into something beautiful for others to enjoy. 

“When people see my float, I want them to feel the magic of origami and 3D shapes. I want them to see how they’re not just plain items, but something that can be so creative,” she says. 

She also encourages those who are interested in doing a Moomba float submission to try to come up with new and original designs that stand out from the crowd. 

She is grateful to everyone who has encouraged her to enjoy being creative, including her art teachers. 

Filed Under: News

November 28, 2025 by Hayley Berry Leave a Comment

The Haileybury Dance Squad has danced its way to a remarkable haul of medals at the national championships held in August. 

In an incredible accomplishment, every single one of the Haileybury Dance Squad’s 120 dancers from Years 7–12, qualified for the TFT Dance Star National Championships held in Hobart.  

On the first day of the championships, 17 Haileybury soloists took to the stage, performing across a diverse range of genres. The following day, 11 Haileybury teams further showcased the strength and depth of the Haileybury dance program. 

The championships offered the Dance Squad invaluable experience and inspiration.  

Year 12 soloist Kaylin found it especially motivating to watch the talented performers from other states. “I really enjoyed watching what the other states brought to the stage and seeing the different way they performed,” says Kaylin. 

“Across the event, our dancers embodied the values of Haileybury Dance, performing with passion, discipline and grace, while also demonstrating genuine support and encouragement towards other schools. Their energy and love for dance lit up the stage and made us all so proud,” said Sam Drury, Head of Dance. 

Dance Captain, Braya, Year 12, said the encouragement from the audience is one of the most rewarding parts of performing.  “Standing on stage after a performance and hearing the crowd cheer, there’s nothing like that feeling. It makes you feel supported and proud.” 

Lucie, Year 10, took home three gold medals from the championships and says that the strong team bonding was one of the most rewarding aspects. “What I enjoyed most was winning gold with both of my small jazz and contemporary teams. It was so special because of how hard we all worked together,” she said. 

Lucie began dancing when she was just two and practices 18 to 22 hours per week. In 2024 the Herald Sun named her as one of Victoria’s top 100 rising dancers. 

Congratulations to all the Haileybury dancers and all who have supported them for their amazing achievements on the national stage. 

“These results are a testament not only to the talent of our dancers but also to the culture of excellence and teamwork that continues to define Haileybury Dance,” said Sam. 

Dance by numbers

Medal moments 

– 14 gold medals 

– 7 silver medals 

– 2 bronze medals 

– 4 fourth places 

– 1 fifth place 

Our Dance Squad 

– 120 students 

– 17 teams 

– 11 soloists 

The Senior Small Jazz Team perform Psycho Killer

Filed Under: Campus Life

November 28, 2025 by Hayley Berry Leave a Comment

With their high-kicking energy and synchronised moves, Haileybury aerobics teams and soloists energised the stage at the FISAF Sports Aerobics National Championships on the Gold Coast in August.  

Twenty-one Senior and Middle School, and Old Haileyburian teams, along with Haileybury soloists, participated in the highly competitive FISAF Sport Aerobics National Championship. The popular event attracted entries from a record breaking 96 schools. 

The Haileybury Senior School team, Heard Enough, secured the national title in the Secondary Advanced Teams category. This was a particularly outstanding achievement given the calibre of the competition.  

“The standard of competition was exceptionally high, yet our girls quickly adapted and continued to prove that they belong among the very best,” said Jessie Curtain, Head of Aerobics. 

Many of the students found participating in the aerobics championships to be so rewarding because of their supportive team environment.  

“It was special because of the strong bond we built as a team and the chance to perform a high-level routine alongside some of my closest friends,” said Zara, Year 11, who is a member of the winning Heard Enough team. The team also included Ashlyn, Ireland, Olivia, Chloe, Mia, Chelsea and Lexi from Years 10–12. 

Lia, Year 11, celebrated a bronze medal placing in the aerobics solo section. She also emphasised how she valued the teamwork, explaining that the team event “is my preferred event as I get to build relationships with such amazing girls.”  

Aerobics allows the students to enjoy creativity and artistry as well as athleticism. “Being able to showcase our creativity through costumes, music and formations is always a highlight of the year. I particularly enjoy skills-based routines because they push me to improve my flexibility and execution, while also giving me the chance to demonstrate the hard work I’ve put in on stage,” said Aerobics Captain, Elise, Year 12. 

This was only the second year Haileybury’s Middle School students have competed in the FISAF competition. 

“Their incredible teamwork, on-stage performances, and the manner in which they represented Haileybury Aerobics were outstanding,” says Jessie. 

The Senior School Team performing Heard Enough

Filed Under: Campus Life

November 28, 2025 by Hayley Berry Leave a Comment

Strengthening alumni bonds in the Top End

Over a delicious meal at Wharf One on the stunning Darwin waterfront, our alumni living in Darwin, as well as some special Haileybury Rendall School staff, gathered to share stories from the past and celebrate achievements. For many, it was a chance to reconnect with familiar faces and discover new ones, proving once again that no matter the distance, the bonds forged at Haileybury remain strong.  

Inspiring connections at the Sursum Corda Society Event

The OHA’s Sursum Corda Society Event lit up the Pullman Melbourne with an evening of inspiration, connection and thought-provoking conversation. Bringing together CEOs, business owners and members of the Haileybury Society, the event was a standout networking opportunity and a true celebration of leadership within the Haileybury community.  

Guests enjoyed insights from a powerhouse panel of guest speakers, including:  

– James Wright, Managing Partner at Linara
– Tamalin Morton (Haileybury parent), Former CEO of Adore Beauty Group 
– Ashley Reed (OH 1983), CFO at MODEL and former CFO at Cbus Property 

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of the evening. Events like this reflect the strength, ambition and generosity of the Haileybury network and we look forward to many more to come.  

Celebrating legacy at the OHA Generations Breakfasts

There was a special sense of pride and connection in the air as families spanning multiple Haileybury generations gathered for the OHA Generations Breakfasts at both the Keysborough and City campuses.  

Over a delicious breakfast, stories were shared, laughter echoed and legacy was honoured, and it was all captured in fabulous family magnet portraits to mark the occasion. It was a heartwarming celebration of tradition, togetherness and the enduring bond that connects Haileyburians across the years.  

30 years on: Class of 1995 Reunion brings the memories flooding back

It was a night to remember as the Class of 1995 returned for their 30-year Reunion, hosted at Haileybury’s City campus. With a fantastic turnout, old friends were reunited, new memories were created, and the room buzzed with laughter, nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling.  

From throwback tales of school days to reflections on life since graduation, the evening was a powerful reminder of the lifelong connections forged at Haileybury. A special thank you to the Haileybury staff who taught this remarkable cohort and joined in the celebration. Your presence made the night even more meaningful.  

Here’s to the friendships that time never fades, and to the Haileyburian spirit that continues to bring you back together.  

A flavourful finale to OHA Week at the Mornington Peninsula Luncheon

OHA members of all ages came together in style at The Epicurean Red Hill for an unforgettable private dining experience. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Mornington Peninsula, guests indulged in a gourmet three-course meal, paired perfectly with meaningful conversation and shared memories. The atmosphere was vibrant and the setting spectacular. It was a celebration of community, connection and the enduring Haileybury spirit.   

A walk through Haileybury’s history: OHA and Archives Event

More than 30 Haileyburians returned to the Jim Brown Centre at Keysborough for a truly special OHA and Archives event; a morning that celebrated the rich history and enduring spirit of Haileybury.  

Guests were taken on a captivating journey through time, featuring highlights from the School’s extensive archives collection, engaging presentations, a guided campus tour, and, of course, plenty of delicious food and warm conversation.  

The event was a beautiful blend of nostalgia and discovery, and a chance to reconnect, reminisce and reflect on the legacy we all share.  

OHA Golf Day: the biggest turnout to date and a sell out

A massive thank you to over 130 players who participated in this year’s OHA Golf Day at the splendid Southern Golf Club. 

Congratulations to Haileybury Society member, Peter Seccull, who won the Hattam-Metherall Trophy (his second time, having previously won in 2013), and to our runner-up Richard Herman (OH 1985).  

We also extend our applause to our winning group: Peter Seccull, Darren Seccull (OH 1983), Mark Seccull (OH 1986) and Alex Shepherd.  

A special shoutout to:  

– Ian Herman (OH 1983) – Forty Years on winner
– Rachel Kirkwood-Scott – Ladies winner
– Kevin O’Connor – Staff winner
– Durras Seccull (OH 2016) – Best Young Player. 

We are incredibly grateful to Mercedes-Benz Berwick, Two Bays Brewing and KPA Lawyers for their generous sponsorship and to all the players for making it a memorable day. 

An evening of connection at Mures Upper Deck, OHA Tasmania Chapter Gathering

On a crisp Hobart evening, the Tasmania Chapter came together for a truly memorable night at the iconic Mures Upper Deck. Though the gathering was intimate in size, it was rich in spirit, conversation and camaraderie. 

Class of 1990 celebrates 35-year Reunion in style

The Class of 1990 came together in spectacular fashion to celebrate their 35-year Reunion at the stunning True South restaurant in Black Rock. Overlooking the bay and bathed in spring sunshine, the venue set the perfect tone for an afternoon of reconnection, reflection and celebration. Laughter flowed as easily as the drinks, with old classmates sharing stories that spanned decades.  

Canberra Chapter Dinner brings alumni of all ages together

It was a night to remember as nearly 30 Haileybury alumni gathered for the Canberra Chapter Dinner at the elegant Realm Hotel. From the moment guests arrived, there was a buzz in the air, a sense of shared history, new connections and genuine enjoyment.  

A sparkling evening by the Harbour: Sydney Chapter Dinner at Searock Grill

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Chapter thoroughly enjoyed a lively dinner at Searock Grill, where the food and company was as impressive as the view and the unmistakable Haileybury spirit filled the air.  

Exploring Melbourne’s luxury landscape: A Haileyburian insight evening

Haileybury alumni were invited to an exclusive evening at the Toorak office of Kay & Burton, where some of Melbourne’s leading experts in luxury finance and property shared their insights on the latest trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the city’s high-end market.  

The event was hosted by GreenBack Capital’s Head of Residential, Nigel Gohl (OH 1993), and featured a distinguished panel of speakers: Darian Kuzma (OH 2003), Private Client Executive at NAB Private Bank; James Driver, Partner at Kay & Burton; and Scott Tanner, former CEO at Bank of Melbourne, Chairman at Kay & Burton and Managing Director of GreenBack Capital.  

Guests gained invaluable perspectives from those at the forefront of luxury finance and property, while also enjoying the chance to connect with leading professionals shaping Melbourne’s future.  

Golden Memories, new perspectives: Class of 1975 reunites

The Class of 1975 returned to the Keysborough campus in full voice and full spirit to celebrate their 50th reunion. Laughter and stories echoed through the halls as old friends reconnected, some for the first time in decades. The morning included a guided school tour, and for many, it was a journey down memory lane. ‘Where are the lockers now?’ and ‘Where was the rifle range?’ were among the questions asked, accompanied by astonishment at the incredible changes that have transformed the campus since their school days.  

The Brian “Weary” Clark Club Luncheon: A celebration of tradition and friendship

Nearly 200 Old Haileyburians came together for the much anticipated annual Brian “Weary” Clark Luncheon, a day for those who graduated 50 or more years ago and honours the remarkable contribution of Mr Brian “Weary” Clark, who served on the Haileybury staff for 43 years. The event was made even more special as we welcomed the Class of 1975 into this cherished tradition, officially inducting them into the group with Peter Gadsden’s (OH 1965) beautiful delivery of the Brian Clark oration.  

The annual “Countdown” was another highlight, celebrating Don Cumming (OH 1949) as the last man standing at 91 years young. 

It was a heartwarming occasion that also honoured our oldest Haileyburians, whose presence reminded us of the enduring spirit and lifelong bonds forged at Haileybury. From catching up with old friends to sharing stories of days gone by, the luncheon perfectly captured the warmth, pride, and enduring connections that define our alumni community.   

The Spirit of the OHA in Perth

Russell Davidson (OH 1986), Director of Development and Alumni Relations, kept the Chapter roadshow rolling with another unforgettable gathering in Perth. The city’s close-knit alumni came together for a delightful lunch in the private wine room at Tucci, where laughter flowed as freely as the stunning waterfront views.  

Timeless bonds: the Class of 2000 Reunion

There was plenty to celebrate as the Class of 2000 gathered at the vibrant Stomping Ground Brewery and Beer Hall for their 25-year reunion. It was delightful to witness the laughter as old friends reconnected, reminisced about their school days and shared stories of the journeys that have shaped their lives since leaving Haileybury.  

Brisbane Alumni gather to close out the year of Chapter events

It may have been a smaller gathering this year, but those who attended thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful evening at the spectacular Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.  

Each of our Chapter events is filled with warmth, laughter and shared memories, reminding us of the strong bonds that unite the Haileybury community across Australia. We are deeply grateful to our wonderful alumni for their enthusiasm and commitment to staying connected with us and with one another. 

2026 Events

Please visit  https://oha.org.au/events/  for the 2026 OHA Events Calendar.

Once a Haileyburian, always a Haileyburian.

Filed Under: OHA

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