Today is the 90th birthday of Dr Robert J. Craig OAM (St Mark’s 1954-58), and in his honour his family have created the Craig Family Scholarship which will create life-changing opportunities for rural students at Adelaide University and St Mark’s College for generations to come.
We are delighted and grateful to announce this outstandingly visionary and generous initiative today.
Robert Craig studied medicine while at St Mark’s, played in the College XVIII, and served in the University Regiment. After further medical training in the United States, he became a pioneering cardiologist in Adelaide, also becoming an enterprising pastoralist. In 2017, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia “for service to medicine as a cardiologist”.
Robert was the first of three generations of the Craig family to come to St Mark’s. When he left the College in 1958, he wrote to the Master, R B (Bob) Lewis, to thank him for the College’s great support for him, and expressed a wish to do anything he could to help the College in future years.
The Craig Family Scholarship is generously endowed by Robert Craig’s family in his honour, and also in recognition of the crucial role that scholarships played in creating opportunities for him. They wish to help create similar opportunities for future generations of students.
The Craig Family Scholarship will be awarded to a rural student of good character and academic merit who is in financial need and has demonstrated resilience in facing and overcoming hardship of some kind. It is open to students of any discipline.
One Scholarship will be awarded each year to a new or returning student who is or will be studying at Adelaide University to enable and support them to be at St Mark’s.
At the discretion of the College, the major part of the award will be used to assist in payment of College fees, and the remainder will be provided to the Scholar as a direct payment to assist with other living costs. Ordinarily, the Scholarship will cover 50% of the St Mark’s residential fee, with a further 50% of that amount paid to the Scholar.
In its first year, 2025, which is the College’s Centenary year, the Craig Family Scholarship will have a value of $18,000, making it one of the most generous scholarships supporting students to be at St Mark’s.
Robert Craig’s family have kindly provided the following statement about the background to the Scholarship:
Dr Robert Craig
Dr Robert Craig is a quiet individual who left his mark on the medical field and the community at large. During his time at St Mark’s College from 1954 to 1958, while pursuing his Adelaide University Medical Degree, he faced the personal tragedy of the sudden and at that time unexpected death of his father. The support he received from the college and his friends was crucial in helping him overcome these challenges and continue his medical studies.
After marrying Judith Walker, Robert continued his physician and then cardiac training and studies at prestigious institutions such as Royal Melbourne Hospital, Stanford, Duke and Harvard Universities. In the late 1960s, he returned to Adelaide as one of the leading cardiologists, bringing Coronary Angiography and Coronary Graft Surgery to South Australian patients. He retired from the Royal Adelaide Hospital in 2004 as Clinical Director Cardiovascular Service.
Robert’s early training and return to Australia were supported by scholarships and the National Heart Foundation. He dedicated five decades to volunteering with the National Heart Foundation, including serving as President of the South Australian Division and Member of the National Board. His contributions were recognised with the Sir John Loewenthal Award in 1998, and in 2017, he was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia.
His major interest outside family and medicine was farming. He and his wife Judith bought and amalgamated a number of properties near Harrow, Western Victoria with particular interest in growing super fine wool and more recently a niche of fine wool prime lambs whilst paying attention to regenerating the natural ecology.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication and contributions to the medical field and the community, his family wishes to establish the Craig Family Scholarship at the University of Adelaide. This scholarship will honour him and acknowledge the vital role that scholarship funding played in his educational journey.
The Craig Family Scholarship aims to support deserving students pursuing studies at Adelaide University. We believe that this scholarship will help alleviate the financial burden for students and empower them to achieve their academic and professional goals, just as scholarships enabled Robert to do so many years ago.
His children (Jim, Andrew, Sandy, Duncan, and Michael), along with their wives (Claudia, Kate, Heidi, Kanyapat, and Jane) and grandchildren (Henry, Angus, Bailey, Jessica, Daisy, Emma, Lilly, Lachie, Campbell, Siena, Hugo, Patric, and Grace), wish to recognise his contributions by endowing the Craig Family Scholarship. This endowment will celebrate his legacy and continue to support future generations of students.
On behalf of all the students whose lives will be transformed through this remarkably generous award, and on its own behalf, the College expresses its profound thanks to the Craig family – and warmest congratulations to Robert Craig on his landmark birthday, and on all that he has achieved!
Alumni and friends of St Mark’s enjoyed connecting with each other and with the Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, in several North American cities in late June and early July.
Professor Markwell met with Old Collegians and friends of the College in Los Angeles, New York, Washington DC, Boston, Toronto, Chicago, Denver, and San Francisco.
The photos below show some of those who took part.
Professor Markwell caught up with Old Collegians from Australia and New Zealand living in the US, and Americans and Canadians who spent time at St Mark’s, including as Study Abroad students or more senior scholars.
“It was a joy to connect with members of the St Mark’s community in North America,” Professor Markwell said.
“However long or short their time in College, a recurring theme of conversation was how formative their experience at St Mark’s was.”
Several alumni and friends of St Mark’s shared plans to visit Adelaide for the College’s Centenary Gala Weekend of 14-16 March 2025. We very much look forward to celebrating with them!
The largest reunion was at the American Australian Association in New York City with Professor Markwell and the College’s Director of Centenary Engagement, Karin Dunsford.
In New York, Old Collegians and partners from the early 1950s to the 2010s were joined by Mrs Okche Ashwin, who was at St Mark’s throughout the 1990s when Mr Robin Ashwin was Master, and their daughter, Mulan, who lives in New York. A presentation was made to express the College’s gratitude to Okche Ashwin.
Another presentation was made to the most senior Collegian to attend any of the reunions, Dr Dennis Bloomfield (St Marks 1952-56), who attended with his wife, Elaine.
As we look ahead to the College’s Centenary next year, a special welcome was also given to Ms Plern Bonython, a descendant of one of our founders, Sir John Langdon Bonython, and her husband, Tanner.
Lively conversation, delicious fare, and panoramic views of Manhattan were greatly enjoyed by all.
As in other cities, Professor Markwell updated alumni and friends of St Mark’s on College news. He also encouraged all to come to Centenary events next year.
The College reunions in North America led many alumni and friends to reconnect with the College, and update their contact details. If you’d like to stay in touch with us and be the first to know about College events, such as the Centenary and future reunions, you can easily update your contact details here.
As well as meeting with members of the St Mark’s community in North America, Professor Markwell also visited a number of universities and colleges. This included the Claremont colleges near Los Angeles (including Pitzer College, from which many Study Abroad students have come to St Mark’s), Princeton and Harvard Universities, and the University of California, Berkeley.
A former Warden of Rhodes House, Oxford, and global CEO of the Rhodes Scholarships, Professor Markwell also met with Rhodes Scholars of several generations in the United States and Canada.
Two Old Collegians, Mark Hautop and Kathy Radoslovich, have both been awarded Ivan Shearer Scholarships. These scholarships will support them to undertake postgraduate study at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, respectively.
Many congratulations to Mark and Kathy on this significant award, and on their admission to Oxford and Cambridge!
Kathy and Mark will embark on their postgraduate studies in the UK later this year. Mark will study for a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) at Oxford as a member of Linacre College. Kathy will study for a Masters degree (MPhil) in medieval history at Cambridge as a member of King’s College.
Their names will soon join that of the inaugural Ivan Shearer Scholar, Rebecca Keeley (St Mark’s 2012-14), on the Ivan Shearer Scholarship honour board in the Junior Common Room at St Mark’s.
They will commence their studies in England at the same time as St Mark’s most recent Rhodes Scholar, Oliver Douglas (St Mark’s 2020-23). Rhodes Scholar for South Australia for 2024, Oliver will commence postgraduate studies in history at Oxford in October as a member of Merton College.
About the Ivan Shearer Scholarship
The Ivan Shearer Scholarship was created through a generous bequest to St Mark’s College from the late Professor Ivan Shearer AM RFD to support current or Old Collegians to study at Oxford or Cambridge. A distinguished international lawyer, Ivan Shearer (1938-2019) was Dean of St Mark’s from 1968 to 1971. He was appointed as an Honorary Fellow of the College in 2005.
The Ivan Shearer Scholarship is awarded through a rigorous application process on the basis of excellence in intellect, character, leadership, and service, and demonstrated need for financial support to study at Oxford or Cambridge. The selection committee for the Scholarship comprises academics at the University of Adelaide and St Mark’s with significant experience with scholarship awards.
Mark Hautop
Mark Hautop
Mark Hautop (St Mark’s 2010-13) was born and raised in Bordertown, South Australia. A scholarship enabled him to undertake three years of secondary school at St Peter’s College, Adelaide, where he became a School Prefect, Boarding House co-vice captain, and co-captain of the First V Basketball team. He also represented South Australia in basketball at a national junior level.
A number of scholarships and prizes enabled Mark to be at St Mark’s for four years. A member of the College Club Committee in 2012, he served as President of the College Club for 2013. He also tutored in law and economics for the College, and played basketball at a semi-professional level.
The first member of his family to attend university, Mark graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Economics. Recognition of his academic achievements included his selection as an editor of the Adelaide Law Review and researcher for the South Australian Law Reform Institute, and an award for the highest overall grade in Commercial Equity Law. He later secured a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the Australian National University, and was admitted to practice as a barrister and solicitor.
Mark worked from 2014 to 2021 as a commercial lawyer with the legal firm MinterEllison in Darwin and Adelaide, working principally on real estate transactions, including Australia’s largest real estate deal in 2019. Since 2021, he has served as Manager, Legal and Executive Operations, for the Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC) in Darwin. The ALC is a statutory entity established under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth) to represent the interests of the Traditional Aboriginal Owners of the Groote Archipelago in the remote Gulf of Carpentaria.
In this role, alongside support to the ALC Chair, Board, and CEO on legal and executive business, Mark has overseen the implementation of six Groote Archipelago Local Decision-Making Agreements, advised on the establishment of the Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation, helped transfer the Groote Archipelago Township Lease to an Anindilyakwa-controlled corporation, and provided support to the Anindilyakwa Mining Trust.
In 2022, Mark was a finalist in the Australian Lawyer’s Weekly 30 Under 30 (Corporate Counsel), and he has published several articles in the Australian Property Law Bulletin.
Mark wishes to undertake an MBA in Oxford to help him develop the modern business skills and techniques needed to “contribute in a greater way to a fairer and more inclusive society through the advancement of First Nations (or Aboriginal) self-determination in Australia”.
Kathy Radoslovich
Kathy Radoslovich
Kathy Radoslovich (St Mark’s 2008-10) entered St Mark’s as a C.A.S. Hawker Scholar after completing the International Baccalaureate at Glenunga International High School.
Kathy graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of International Studies with First Class Honours, and a Bachelor of Development Studies. Her academic distinction was recognised with several University of Adelaide and St Mark’s College scholarships and prizes, and she served as an academic tutor at the College (as she does today).
Active over many years in the Scouts, in 2011-12 she served as a Capacity Development Officer with the Scouts Association of Timor Leste, including running the National Office for six months. This was a highly formative experience for Kathy.
Before returning to St Mark’s in 2018 as Director of Learning, Kathy worked as an Analyst with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, as a Research Assistant with Helping Hand Aged Care, in various roles with South Australia Police, and as a Youth Worker with the Wiltja Residential Program supporting Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara speaking Aboriginal high school students from remote areas. Over many years she has also worked as an academic tutor and mentor with Wirltu Yarlu Indigenous Education at the University of Adelaide.
Since returning to St Mark’s as Director of Learning (2018-20), responsible for running the College’s academic program of support for students, Kathy has worked also as Registrar (2020-23), responsible for marketing the College and student enrolments (which have reached record levels in 2023 and 2024), and since July 2023 as Research and Scholarships Manager. In these roles, her wide-ranging contributions to the College, including providing academic support and mentoring to many students, have been outstanding. She has several academic and professional publications.
Kathy will take unpaid leave from the College while she undertakes the MPhil in medieval history at Cambridge, one of the strongest universities in the world in this field. She wishes in this course to strengthen her skills as a historian with strong grounding in historiological methodologies and advanced archival research skills. An enthusiastic linguist, Kathy will also strengthen her command of Latin and palaeography (the study of pre-modern manuscripts).
Many congratulations again to Kathy and Mark. They are both worthy recipients of the Ivan Shearer Scholarship and ambassadors for St Mark’s in Cambridge and Oxford!
Life-changing opportunities celebrated at St Mark’s
Winners of College scholarships for 2024 were recognised at the annual Scholarships Presentation Ceremonies held recently. These occasions gave Scholars the opportunity personally to thank the donors of the scholarships which help them live and learn at St Mark’s.
On Thursday 30 May, many donors enjoyed presenting certificates to the students awarded their scholarships this year. In some cases, the presentations were made by family members or descendants of donors: for example, the Kitty Hayward Scholarship, endowed in 1938, was presented by the donor’s great grandson, in the presence of other descendants of Kitty Hayward!
Mrs Mary Lou Simpson OAM (on behalf of herself and Mr Antony Simpson, who was overseas), Dr John Boully, Mr Guy Watson, and Dr Pamela Wall OAM spoke for all donors in saying what a pleasure and privilege it is to help talented students from diverse backgrounds to be at St Mark’s.
St Mark’s Director of Centenary Engagement, Ms Karin Dunsford, spoke warmly of the late Dr Helen Reid, who left a bequest to endow a scholarship which bears her name. Karin was twice offered jobs at Walford School by Dr Reid, who recognised and encouraged potential in Karin which she did not see herself. Like our scholarships, these were life-changing opportunities.
Speaking for all scholarship recipients, students Luke MacKay, Manon Finch, and Cameron Akehurst shared how formative their St Mark’s experiences have been. They expressed profound gratitude for the selfless generosity of scholarship donors who have made this possible.
Quoting the adage that “talent is everywhere, opportunity is not”, the Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, said:
“Scholarships are utterly essential to creating opportunity for young people of talent and potential.
“Our scholarships exist to promote and recognise excellence, including service and leadership as well as academic and other achievement; to help students who are in financial need; and to enable people from diverse backgrounds to be at St Mark’s who might not otherwise be able to be here.”
Some of the scholarships presented were endowed in the early years of St Mark’s and are still awarded today. Others have been created in more recent years through the generosity and vision of donors.
Professor Markwell said that, despite the great generosity of St Mark’s scholarships and of our wonderful donors, students’ need for financial support remains much greater than our capacity to meet it, and a further significant expansion of scholarships remains a crucial priority for the College.
The Scholarships Presentation Ceremony was followed by an informal dinner. Here, donors and their Scholars were able to talk further, an opportunity clearly enjoyed by all.
Earlier that week, the Chair of the College Board, Ms Linda Matthews, spoke in Formal Hall and recognised and congratulated the 2024 winners of a number of other scholarships. These included the St Mark’s College Scholarships (which are funded from all-important Annual Giving), Alumni Scholarships, the Foundation Scholarship, and Margaret and Harry Scott Trust Scholarships.
Ms Matthews said how greatly she appreciated the letters she received from scholarship winners which reflected the importance in their lives of the opportunity to be at St Mark’s.
Over recent months, dozens of current St Mark’s Collegians have again been writing letters of thanks for the scholarships that have helped them be at St Mark’s this year. In many cases, scholarships have made the difference between their being able to return or come to the College for 2024, or not.
The headline above is a quote from one such letter.
The letters from students generally express gratitude for the great opportunity to benefit from being at College, and for the kindness and generosity of donors. Many students speak powerfully of what being at St Mark’s means to them, and of the financial challenges which they and their family face, including the current cost of living and other economic pressures, and how much difference the scholarship support makes.
Inspiringly, many scholarship recipients also express the determination that, when they are able later in life, they will “give back” or “pay it forward” – doing what they can to help future generations of students to be at St Mark’s.
A great deal of our scholarships are funded by gifts from Old Collegians who are grateful for what their College experience did for them. Many others are funded by gifts from friends of the College who have seen how important and life-changing their support can be.
Donations to the College through Annual Giving are essential to our ability to provide this support, as are major gifts and bequests. Thanks to the generosity of the St Mark’s community, a number of new scholarships have been created in the last few years, and Annual Giving by alumni and friends funds several crucial scholarships each year.
One of the top priorities in the College’s strategic plan, Towards our second century, is “working to support all students who need it, and to promote excellence and diversity, through a major expansion of scholarships and other financial support for students”.
This week, the annual Scholarship Presentation Ceremonies will be held at the College. Here, scholarships are formally recognised and certificates are presented to scholarship winners by their donors. We also launch Annual Giving, which again seeks support for our students through gifts for scholarships, as well as for other College priorities.
Expressions of gratitude
These short extracts from the very many letters written by scholarship recipients reflect their gratitude for the great impact of the support they have received.
“St Mark’s will forever be a part of my life. I would not be the person I am today without the support, and opportunities for growth and success in all aspects of life. Thank you for believing in the potential of students like myself and for investing in our future.”
“Being part of the college community at St Mark’s provides me with a sense of belonging that I have never felt prior. 2023 spent at college was the best year of my life, I have made lifelong incredible friendships and learnt many new things about myself, others, and the journey of life. I couldn’t imagine myself being anywhere else.”
“From the bottom of our hearts, we are truly thankful and assure you that St Mark’s College will always hold a special place in each of our hearts. I hope to one day be able to provide assistance to another student in living their dream to stay at St Mark’s College just like I have been kindly provided with.”
“This opportunity has become a reality thanks to you!”
“Coming to St Marks is one of the best decisions I’ve made. We are all grateful for your support in allowing me to return to college for a second year.”
“It is a testament to the life you have led and the values that you hold that you should show such kindness to strangers and freely support their educational journeys. Thank you for your kindness and generosity in creating this tremendous opportunity not only for me, but also for the many others who will inevitably follow.”
“The impact of this scholarship extends beyond my academic journey; it has made a significant difference in my life and has eased the financial burden I feel I have placed on my family. Without this support, continuing my studies in Adelaide would have been a considerable challenge. I will be forever grateful for your generosity.”
“Your support fuels my determination to excel academically and actively engage in the vibrant community at St Mark’s. I am eager to immerse myself in the diverse academic and extracurricular activities offered at the college, knowing that your generosity has provided me with the means to fully participate and contribute to its rich tapestry of experiences.”
“This generous scholarship has not only alleviated the financial burden of pursuing higher education but has also served as a profound affirmation of my academic and personal achievements. Your belief in my potential has provided me with the encouragement and support needed to excel in my studies. College is not just an academic institution; it is a place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are shaped. The opportunities for growth, both intellectually and personally, are invaluable. Your scholarship has made it possible for me to fully immerse myself in this transformative experience. I am genuinely grateful for the faith you have shown in me, and I am committed to honouring your generosity through dedicated and impactful academic pursuits.”
“Your support is not forgotten and thought of regularly with much gratitude.”
“Living at St. Mark’s is a privilege that I never thought I would have. Having grown up in economic and family hardship, your patronage provides me with significant emotional and financial relief that truly makes or breaks the reality of me being a student at St. Mark’s. Thank you for believing in me.”
“Thank you for providing opportunity to those like myself to continue living at St Mark’s College with the hopes to become the best version of myself in all aspects of my academic and personal life.”
“Being a daughter of two hard working farmers whose income is very dependent on weather means that there is always major stress around financial needs. This scholarship has truly been a major blessing for my family and me, especially with the unfortunate harvest season my mum and dad have experienced this year. Without your kindness, my family would have found it much harder to provide me with an opportunity to receive higher education, which would have impacted the chances of me being able to stay. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to chase my dreams.”
“My parents and I are incredibly thankful for your donation of this scholarship as it has played a large role in helping me to attend St Mark’s College this year and hopefully in the years to come. I completed a gap year in 2023, working three jobs to accumulate savings to support my tertiary education. Such a generous scholarship goes a long way in assisting me with these costs.
“I am filled with gratitude for your generosity in awarding me this St Mark’s scholarship and look forward to the future opportunities that this will open for me.”
“Your generosity not only lightens the financial burden of my education but also validates my aspirations and reinforces my dedication to the field of nursing. With the support of this scholarship, I am better equipped to focus on my studies, engage in clinical experiences, and participate in the opportunities that St Mark’s has to offer. Your dedication to supporting aspiring nurses, like myself, reflects a shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and service to humanity. I am looking forward to personally thanking you for your kind scholarship and will work diligently this year to ensure I have made you proud.”
“Without scholarships, my residence at St Mark’s would be called into question.”
“Being from a farming family, the expense of living away from home was always scary to think about and try to budget for as our family’s income is constantly changing. My family has made many sacrifices to ensure I can be comfortable while studying and have never once wavered in their support towards me even when it has put pressure on them. Your help through this scholarship means a great amount to my family, and more so to myself as it allows me to continue making the most of the opportunities that arise while living at St Mark’s and in Adelaide.”
“Receiving this scholarship means more to me than words can convey. It is not only financial assistance but also a tremendous vote of confidence in my abilities and aspirations. Your belief in my potential has inspired me to work even harder towards my academic and career goals. Enrolling at St Marks has been a profoundly transformative experience for me, one that extends far beyond the academic realm. It has been a place where I have and will continue to make lifelong connections and it will always have a special place in my heart.”
“I am grateful for every moment I get to spend here. I am truly humbled by your generosity.”
“This scholarship you have kindly presented has allowed me to continue my college journey, which may not have gone ahead otherwise.”
“I have marvelled at the opportunities that I have been able to seize, the people that have shifted from acquaintance to family, and the way a new place can quickly become a home. It is due to your generosity that this is possible.”
If you would like to help change the lives of current or future students at St Mark’s, please give now at the link here.
A generous scholarship to help a rural student continue at St Mark’s while studying Agricultural Science, or Oenology and Viticulture, has been created by Old Collegian Tim Brooks (St Mark’s 1966-70).
The Tim Brooks Scholarship, with a value of $12,000 per annum, will be awarded to an undergraduate student from a rural area who is enrolled at St Mark’s and is undertaking study in Agricultural Science (preferably) or Oenology or Viticulture in their second or later year. A student who is undertaking post-graduate study in any of these fields is also eligible to apply.
The ideal candidate would be a student who has completed at least the first year of their course with higher than satisfactory achievement, has a commitment to their field of study, and has demonstrated service to the College or community.
The criteria for this significant award will be, in order of priority: rural student, academic achievement and commitment, financial need, and contribution to the College or community.
Tim Brooks studied Agricultural Science at the University of Adelaide while a resident student at St Mark’s from 1966 to 1970. In 1970, he served as President of the College Club (having previously served as Secretary) and as a member of the College Council, and was awarded the prestigious Collegians’ Prize.
For several generations members of his family have been closely associated with St Mark’s including Malcolm E Brooks OBE, Hector G Brooks OAM, and Old Collegians, Hector B Brooks (1950-52, later Honorary Fellow), Clive Brooks (1960-63), and Dr David Brooks (1963-65).
Grandchildren of Tim’s cousin, Hector B Brooks, Henry Brooks (2020-21) and Patrick Brooks (2024- ) are the most recent generation of the family at St Mark’s.
Members of the Brooks family donated the imposing gates at the Pennington Terrace entrance to the College in 1991, and other members of the family have supported the College in various ways. Tim has previously donated the Tim Brooks Agricultural Science Scholarship in 2008-14.
In creating this new scholarship, Tim would like to be able to provide life-changing opportunities to students – and the College is deeply grateful.
For details of College scholarships, including the Tim Brooks Scholarship, click here.
If you would like to donate and create life-changing opportunities for students to be at St Mark’s, click here.
Photo: Tim Brooks (St Mark’s 1966-70) and the Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, at St Mark’s, May 2024.
2024 is off to a strong start, with celebrations of the academic success and adventures of the St Mark’s community.
Academic Awards Dinner
We celebrated our 2023 academic high achievers at the annual Academic Awards Dinner on 27 March. The awards were presented at a special Formal Hall after a reception at the Lodge.
Madalyn Toet, Eloise Wills, Zac Meakin, and Emma Mattiske.
Cass Joubert, Ella Browne, Cam Akehurst, Harry Yous, and Cate Lin Loo.
Here’s a round-up of the winners.
Scholarships and Prizes
Returning students Mackenzie Walter and Nathan Rokebrand were jointly awarded the Edward A. Radcliff Scholarship as the 2023 College Duxes. Mackenzie, who is studying Forensic and Analytical Science at Flinders University, was also awarded the Sir Ronald Fisher Medal for the most outstanding student in science. Nathan, a student at the University of Adelaide, also received a prize for outstanding results in engineering.
Third-year University of Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences student Oscar Hemmings was awarded the G. Angas Parsons Scholarship as the runner-up to the Duxes.
Prizes for outstanding academic performance were also awarded to Robyn Coles (Allied Health) and Zoe Raynes (Medical Science).
Dino Macri, who is studying Italian alongside a Bachelor of Computer Science, won the BP Wait Prize for the best student in Classics or Modern Languages.
Media and Communications student Cameron Dixon won the WF Wehrstedt Prize for an outstanding performance in Arts and Humanities.
Back row: Dr Katrina Stats, Nathan Rokebrand, and Oscar Hemmings. Front row: Dino Macri, Cameron Dixon, Mackenzie Walter, Zoe Raynes, and Professor Don Markwell AM.
The Distinguished Scholars Book, now including 2023’s award recipients.
Distinctions and High Distinctions
Overall, our community earned a total of over 800 High Distinctions and Distinctions throughout 2023.
To achieve seven or eight High Distinctions in a single academic year is an impressive feat – and 11 St Mark’s students did just that, earning Commendations for Exceptional Academic Achievement. Three of these students received High Distinctions in all their subjects.
Eight more students achieved five or six High Distinctions and were awarded Commendations for Outstanding Academic Achievement. A further 34 students were awarded Commendations for Academic Excellence for earning two, three, or four High Distinctions. 27 of these students received High Distinctions in at least half of their subjects.
We are very pleased to report that an incredible 199 students (approximately 81% of our community) earned at least one Distinction or High Distinction in the year. 31 of these students achieved either High Distinctions or Distinctions in all their subjects.
All three of our Honours students were awarded First Class Honours in Arts, Engineering, and Law respectively. One of these students, Oliver Douglas, was also selected as the South Australian Rhodes Scholar for 2024.
Additionally, Flinders students Eliza Corbin, Charli Dodson, Cate Lin Loo, Zac Meakin, Georgie Orchard, and Mackenzie Walter all received Chancellor’s Letters of Commendation for their outstanding results in 2023.
The 2023 academic performance of St Mark’s College students is very much reflective of the College motto, Spernit Virtus Humum, which roughly translates to “excellence reaches for the stars”.
Playford Trust Scholarships
The 2024 Playford Trust Scholarships Ceremony saw two St Mark’s collegians awarded prestigious scholarships to support their studies.
Jemima Lloyd, a first-year student undertaking a Bachelor of Civil Engineering at the University of Adelaide, was awarded a Playford Trust Rural and Regional STEM Scholarship.
Fellow first-year University of Adelaide student Lucas Cockshell, who is working towards a double degree in Mechanical Engineering and Mathematical and Computer Sciences, was awarded one of the Andy Thomas Space Foundation/Playford Trust Scholarships.
The Playford Trust was created in 1983 to honour the memory of South Australia’s longest-serving Premier, Sir Thomas Playford. The Trust provides scholarships to South Australian university and TAFE students, especially to support them in university studies or research in STEM or related priority areas for South Australia.
Lucas Cockshell (far right) pictured with other scholarship recipients.
An award-winning Yarn with Rebecca Keeley, inaugural Ivan Shearer Scholar
Old Collegian Rebecca Keeley was named the NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner for 2024! The award recognises Bec’s innovative approach to improving speech pathology services for children and families across rural and regional Australia.
Originally from Darwin, Bec was a resident student at St Mark’s from 2012-14 while she studied a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Flinders University. She was later awarded our prestigious Ivan Shearer Scholarship in 2022, which helped enable her to undertake an MBA at Oxford University in the United Kingdom.
Bec used the learnings from her postgraduate studies to establish Yarn, an innovative app designed to enhance the impact of speech pathology services. Yarn provides regional clients with access to allied health support, reduces wait times and wait lists, and gives families ongoing support between sessions.
Congratulations, Bec!
Rebecca Keeley (middle) at the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award ceremony.
Speaking from Experience with Oliver Douglas
We welcomed back recent Old Collegian and 2024 Rhodes Scholar, Oliver Douglas, for the first Speaking from Experience for the year.
In a fireside conversation with our Senior Academic Tutor, Cam Akehurst, Oliver offered his best tips and advice for making the most of university, College, scholarships, and other opportunities. Oliver certainly offered a wealth of information, having served as Charitable President and College Club Vice President during his time at St Mark’s and jointly winning the 2023 Collegian’s Prize!
Current students listened eagerly as Oliver spoke of his search for purpose and the importance of introspection for growth. It was an illuminating and inspiring evening.
Oliver studied a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws at the University of Adelaide and was awarded First Class Honours in History. Later this year, he will head to Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar to undertake postgraduate study in modern British history.
Oliver Douglas.
Ink drinking at St Mark’s
The St Mark’s College Book Club is a small but enthusiastic group of buveur d’encre, or ink drinkers, as the French say!
The Book Club meet once a term to talk books over supper. Our first meeting for 2024 took place in March in the Senior Common Room, where we reviewed Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. The discussion was led by our well-read Librarian, Amanda Ward. Topics ranged from critiquing the style of writing and the unusual structure of the book to exploring its key themes, such as gender inequality, the complexity of relationships, and the idea of video games as art.
From left to right: Cooper Ferguson, Andie Hallgath, Oscar Hemmings, Emma Neuhaus, Zoe Hughes, and Amanda Ward.
Club members are currently reading Bonnie Garmus’s bestseller, Lessons in Chemistry. Excitingly, they got to attend a talk with the author at Regal Theatre.
From left to right: Andie Hallgath, Kathy Radoslovich, Zoe Hughes, Amanda Ward, Karin Dunsford, Cooper Ferguson, Will Gillet, Cam Akehurst, and Dr Katrina Stats.
Author Bonnie Garmus is interviewed about her book, “Lessons in Chemistry”.
Getting down to business
On May 1, our Business, Finance, Commerce, and Economics students enjoyed a dynamic Q&A. The discussion was hosted by our 2024 SAT and Business/Law Academic Coordinator, Cameron Akehurst.
From left to right: Cameron Akehurst, Andrew Stevens, Lauren Stevens, Craig Mudge, Sarah Ware, and Edwina Page.
The panel included:
Old Collegian Dr Craig Mudge AO (St Mark’s 1960), who has had a long and distinguished career in IT and innovation in Australia and abroad.
Edwina Page (St Mark’s 2020-22), auditor and Old Collegian.
Lauren Stevens, now a Marketing Director and business owner.
Andrew Stevens, Financial Controller at Flinders Port Holdings.
St Mark’s own Business Manager, Sara Ware.
The panellists offered thoughtful advice. The discussion spanned work-life balance (or work-life integration, as one guest described it), invaluable interview tips, and entertaining stories from the coal face of the business world.
Students enjoying the event.
A wine-derful evening
Academic Coordinator Rachael Bird organised a faculty evening with a twist for members of the Agriculture, Viticulture, Veterinary, Marine, and Animal Science Faculty on Thursday, 9 May.
Students were treated to a sampling of professions in between a formal wine tasting experience! With the Ballroom set up to resemble a grand wine bar, fifth generation winemaker Simon Tolley led the group in an expert tasting of a selection of his finest wines.
In between drinks, students heard from:
Simon (owner of Simon Tolley Wines).
Veterinarian Dr Andrew Dunn, co-founder and surgeon, Small Animal Specialist Hospital, Adelaide.
Marine biologist Georgina Kenning, who works at the Marine Discovery Centre in Henley Beach.
Livestock industry development consultant Bruce Hancock.
The panel shared tips for salvaging smoke-tainted grapes, hand-rearing seahorses, surviving burnout, and distinguishing oneself as a graduate applicant. It was a delicious and delightful evening!
Rachael Bird, Simon Tolley, Andrew Dunn, Georgina Kenning, and Bruce Hancock.
Re:Marks re:Vived
We congratulate 2024 Lion Editors, Juliette Parlange, Roslyn Thomas, and Zoe Raynes for the long-awaited revival of Re:Marks. The Lion Editors were encouraged and supported in this endeavour by College Club Committee member and Outreach Officer Zoe Hughes.
Re:Marks is an informal student publication first established in 1990 as a forum for students’ work. Showcasing creative writing, visual arts, news, and information about forthcoming events, the latest edition of Re:Marks was enthusiastically received at the recent College Club OGM. We eagerly anticipate the second edition for 2024!
Micho Milanovic with his copy of Re:Marks.
Gemma Garraway with her copy of Re:Marks.
Women’s health on the menu
Zoe Hughes was also responsible for organising the fantastic Women’s Health Formal Hall and Q&A on 13 March. There was a large turnout at the panel discussion in the Ballroom after dinner. While the crowd was predominantly female students, they were joined by some of our male students.
Zoe, together with Dorisa Nasserian, did a brilliant job of chairing the panel session. Guest speakers included:
Eloise Hall, the co-founder and Managing Director of TABOO Period Products.
Gynaecologist, pain physician, Chair of the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia, and Founder and CEO of Alyra Biotech, Associate Professor Susan Evans.
Tiffany Brooks, a health psychologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Adelaide.
Nawal Church, a women’s health specialist physiotherapist.
Former College Club President Sophie Ludbrook (St Mark’s 2019-21), who is currently completing her final year of medicine.
The guests shared different personal, medical, and therapeutic perspectives on endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and adenomyosis. They spoke about changing approaches to treating women’s pain, and the importance of destigmatising and improving education about women’s health.
From left to right: Zoe Hughes, Dr Tiffany Brooks, Sophie Ludbrook, Eloise Hall, Nawal Church, Prof. Susan Evans, and Dorisa Nasserian.
Zoe says: “In a college that values inclusiveness and having a voice, it was time to start the conversation about women’s health in an open and candid way. We were lucky enough to have five brilliant women join us and share insights from their various backgrounds.
“Even after many years of fighting to be heard and believed, thousands of women are still turned away from medical help and told that ‘period pain is normal’. Spoiler alert: it’s not. That’s why it’s so important to have honest and open conversations about women’s health even when it’s hard and uncomfortable.
“Although the night is finished now, the conversation is far from over. I urge everyone to continue to have these hard but truthful conversations.”
Read all about it!
Last term, first-year UniSA Psychology student Jack O’Connor successfully petitioned the College for the regular delivery of newspapers. Jack argued that access to quality news sources would help students to become more informed about and engaged with local, national, and global affairs. He believed this would equip students to better fulfil their civic duties; improve their writing, grammar, comprehension, and critical thinking skills; and provide a source of connection and conversation for students.
The College now receives daily print copies of The Advertiser and The Australian. This is in addition to our existing subscriptions to The Guardian Weekly, The Economist, New Scientist, National Geographic, and The Koori Times. Jack has taken on the duty of delivering papers to the JCR and recycling the previous week’s papers. He also runs regular quizzes on current affairs.
Lucas Cockshell and Andy Kariuki enjoying access to the newspapers in the Junior Common Room.
“The rocks were amazing!” – Cooper Ferguson on his NZ Study Tour
University of Adelaide Geology Honours student, Cooper Ferguson, provides us with another compelling reason to study earth sciences: travel!
“At the beginning of semester 1, I had the opportunity to visit New Zealand for two weeks as part of the Earth Sciences Honours Study Tour organised by the University of Adelaide,” Cooper says. “We explored both islands, utilising our geological knowledge and skills to understand the complicated tectonic history that shaped New Zealand.
“The trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing us to utilise everything we learnt in our Bachelor degrees. We also got an introduction to presenting and researching through the nightly seminars built into the trip and our overall assessment.
“Of course, the rocks were amazing! Some highlights were the contact between the Australian and Pacific plates, the outcropping near Franz Josef, and the Taupō Volcanic Zone, the site of Mount Ngauruhoe, used in the Lord of the Rings films as Mount Doom.
“A huge thanks to our demonstrators for providing their knowledge and expertise, and their time and energy driving us around and hearing our constant questions. The trip would not have been possible, nor as enjoyable and educating, without them.”
Cooper Ferguson.
Report from the field – Madi Martin
Third-year UniSA speech therapy student, Madi Martin, is the 2024 Academic Coordinator for the Allied Health and Health and Medical Sciences Faculty. She is currently completing her first placement and writes to us from the field.
“I am currently three weeks into my first Fieldwork Placement for my Speech Pathology course! I’ve been placed at the UniSA City West Health and Medical Clinic, which is a student-run allied health clinic. Here, families access the benefits of allied health services without paying full cost for sessions.
“I’m working with three other speech pathology students, and we each have a caseload of four clients over two days. My days consist of planning and administering formal and informal assessments, planning sessions and implementing interventions, and getting feedback from my clinical educators on how I can improve.
“My tip for starting placement is to remember that you (at least in my case) aren’t expected to be the best at everything in your first placement rotation. You are allowed to make mistakes and ask questions. If you’re nervous about starting placement, know that your clinical educators or supervisors are there to help you. They wouldn’t sign up for being a supervisor if they didn’t want to help you become a better professional in your field!”
Madi Martin.
Showcasing skills at Showcase SA – Kellie Lessue
Kellie Lessue, who is studying a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) at UniSA, is completing an internship with Showcase SA. She provided a summary of her experience so far:
“Showcase SA is a marketing company that connects and showcases South Australian businesses, both small and large. I’m excited to use my event planning experience from the Charitable Foundation last year and the College Club Committee this year. This experience has made my transition into this related work a lot easier. I’ve really enjoyed using the skills I’ve learnt at university in a professional environment.”
Kellie Lessue (far right) pictured at a Showcase SA event.
Chillin’ on the other side of the earth – Imogen Dickinson
Imogen Dickinson, a third-year UniSA Human Movement student, has been on exchange in Canada this semester. She recently sent us this update from St. Catharines, Ontario.
Imogen Dickinson (middle) pictured with fellow students on a postcard.
“Hi there from Canada!
“It’s been a whirlwind of experiences over here at Brock University. We’re situated in one of Canada’s biggest wine regions (which has its perks!) and just a short 20 minutes away from the notorious Niagara Falls.
“It’s safe to say that Canadians share a similar lifestyle to us in Australia, it just gets so much colder here with snow and strong winds. It’s nothing a coffee from Canadian chain Tim Hortons can’t fix, especially with friends from all over the globe.
“Apart from the weather, other observable differences include driving on the other side of the road and the content of my university classes. My classes are much easier here in Canada compared to my classes back home. Can’t say I’m unhappy about it!
“One of my favourite experiences so far is the winter expedition I did with my outdoor education class. This involved camping outside in the snow for two nights, pulling all our belongings on a sled across a frozen lake, and taking water from a hole in the ice to use for cooking and drinking. While I’ve never been happier to see my bed in my dorm, it was an amazing experience nonetheless.
“My time here has come to an end, which I can’t quite believe – short but sweet. It’s both exciting and sad to come back home. See you soon, Mark’s!”
An action shot of Imogen’s once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
Service above self
College Club Vice President Will Gillett recently spoke at the Rotary District Conference, celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Loxton. Will shared how his association with Rotary has shaped his life and values so far, and spoke passionately on the topic of service above self. He used Charles Hawker, one of the founders of St Mark’s, and Charles’s sister Lilias Needham, as examples.
“While Charles Hawker’s achievements are well known and widely admired, it is his sister, Lilias Needham, whose selfless commitment is truly extraordinary and does not get acknowledged enough.
“It was Lilias Needham who endowed the lifechanging Hawker Scholarships. Since 1990, these have enabled students like me to reside at St Mark’s and at other Australian colleges, and in Cambridge, like her brother did, while undertaking their university studies.
“She was also part of many service organisations like Rotary and donated a lot. However, with many of these donations, she requested to remain anonymous. It was only after her death that these organisations, including St Mark’s, could acknowledge all she had done.
“Lilias Needham is indeed a true example of selfless service. Her service, which was motivated by the desire to perpetuate that of her brother, now inspires and recognises others.”
He concluded with a powerful assertion. “The motto of service above self is one I aspire to apply throughout my studies and future career.”
Will Gillett (left) speaking at the Rotary event.
In honour of this remarkable and humble woman, the Lilias Needham Medal for Service is now awarded annually at St Mark’s to a student who has demonstrated selfless service, and winners of the Lilias Needham Medal are listed on an honour board in the Junior Common Room. Read more about Lilias Needham here.
Our Melbourne Reunion event was a fabulous night on the beautiful grounds of Trinity College!
Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, and Director of Centenary Engagement, Karin Dunsford, had a wonderful time catching up with Old Collegians and friends of the College from many different generations. There was plenty of laughter as friendships were forged and renewed.
Brisbane Reunion
Some 25 Old Collegians and friends of the College from different generations came together at the riverside Blackbird Bar. They joined the Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, and Director of Centenary Engagement, Karin Dunsford, for a lovely evening of laughter and nostalgia against a backdrop of twinkling city lights.
Professor Markwell shared news of the College today and of our Centenary Gala weekend (14 – 16 March, 2025), where we hope to see hundreds of alumni and friends of St Mark’s!
Every year at St Mark’s, we commemorate Anzac Day and Founders’ Day.
Anzac Day holds significant meaning for the College, as it’s also St Mark’s Day. Many of our founders served in World War I and all were profoundly affected by it. The founders named the College after the Saint on whose day the Gallipoli landings fell in 1915.
Founders’ Day is normally marked on the Sunday immediately following Anzac Day.
Lighting up the dawn
Every Anzac Day, St Mark’s students wake up early to honour the fallen and “light up the dawn” with a candlelight vigil.
This year, well over 100 St Mark’s students and staff lined Pennington Terrace, North Adelaide, at 6am. We remembered those who served in wars and peace-keeping operations, including the 20 Collegians killed in World War II whose names are forever etched on a plaque on College grounds.
Founders’ Day Service
At our Founder’s Day Service on April 28, we commemorated Anzac Day and St Mark’s Day, and honoured our founders who worked hard and gave generously 100 years ago to bring the College into being. The service was followed by morning tea and the traditional toast.
It was a morning of quiet reflection on what it means to be a part of the St Mark’s community. Many thanks to the very many students, Old Collegians, and friends of the College who took part. Thank you also to our Chaplain, the Reverend Canon Stephen Daughtry, for his inspiring sermon.
Old Collegians’ Football
Following the Founders’ Day Service and morning tea, we enjoyed an afternoon of football, in which current and Old Collegians played each other in friendly matches.
The 2024 College year is off to an exciting start, with much positive energy in the College – reinforced by a convincing win in last night’s inter-college swimming carnival, with three records for St Mark’s swimmers.
We entered 2024 with a spring in our step, following:
strong enrolments for 2024 – one of the largest enrolments in our history (currently 248 students),
excellent academic results in 2023,
one of our fourth-year students, Oliver Douglas, being chosen as Rhodes Scholar for South Australia,
the purchase of the Cathedral Deanery, providing a home in College for seven St Mark’s students, thanks to a most generous donation to the College, and
our exceptional staff team being joined by our new Chaplain, the Rev’d Canon Steve Daughtry.
The summer saw detailed planning for the new academic year, including preparation of a new College Handbook which gives an overview of how the College works today (available here ), a calendar of events for the year, and a lively but balanced program for Welcome Week.
After extensive training of our excellent team of student leaders for 2024, we welcomed new students and returners in mid-February. Many parents and friends joined us for the Admission Ceremony in which our new students of 2024 signed the same Roll of Members as new students have signed since 1925.
Welcome Week included important training for new and returning students, many opportunities for new students to become familiar with the College, their university, and the local area, and lots of fun activities and events.
The week ended with the Commencement Service in the Cathedral, attended by many family members and friends of the College, and the Commencement Dinner held in beautiful weather on the College tennis courts. The tennis courts were in use again the following day for a relaxed afternoon of Old Collegians tennis.
The Commencement Service focussed on the start of the academic year as a “new beginning” for us all, and continued the strong focus on upholding good values – including those in the student-written Living Document of Values which, for the second year in a row, our students have pledged to uphold. For the Commencement Address by the Head of College, Professor Don Markwell AM, in the service, click here, and for the sermon by the Chaplain, the Rev’d Canon Steve Daughtry, click here.
The start of the new College year has seen our student leaders organise many superb events and activities – such as Charitable Foundation charity volunteering and coffee mornings, “salty sips” when some dozens of our students brave a 6am start to yoga and swimming at Henley Beach or Glenelg, a heart-warming celebration of International Women’s Day, and a lively panel of experts discussing key issues in women’s health. The energy and vision of our student leaders is inspiring.
The academic, wellbeing, and practical support offered to St Mark’s students by staff and student leaders alike is greatly appreciated. Amongst much else, academic skills training sessions for new students on such topics as academic referencing and writing have been held, the tutorial program is underway and growing, and Study Hall – students studying together in the Dining Hall with tutors on Tuesday evenings – has resumed.
Having missed retaining the High Table Cup by just one point last year, we are keen to do our best to reclaim it in 2024. Our tennis players played with passion and determination in the inter-college contest on 3 March, and – with only narrow margins between the top four teams – were unlucky to come in fourth. The inaugural winners of the new inter-college tennis trophy – the Andrew and Albertina Douglas Tennis Trophy, donated by recent St Mark’s Old Collegians Oliver and Patrick Douglas – are St Ann’s, whom we congratulate on their win.
Congratulations also to the St Mark’s swimmers who won last night’s exciting inter-college swimming carnival with scores:
St Mark’s 85
Aquinas 67
St Ann’s 51
Lincoln 43
Flinders 28
Our women’s sports officer, Eloise Wills, broke the records in the women’s 50 metres backstroke and women’s 50 metres freestyle, and our team set a new record in the mixed medley relay.
A brilliant achievement by our swimmers!
Meanwhile, several dozens of our students whose ability to be at St Mark’s depends on scholarships have written very moving letters of thanks for the support that generous donors have given them. Extracts from some of these letters of gratitude will be published here in coming weeks, as will news of the creation of a further scholarship endowment through a generous donation, and news of further activities at the College.
Top photo: “Salty sips” at Henley Breach
Middle photo: Senior staff and College Club Committee members on the day of the Commencement Service and Dinner.
