JiEMo ncttt
JtJ. new*
4
THE GRIFFIN
MARCH, 1946 MELBOURNE TEACHERS’ COLLEGE NEWS-SHEET
VOL. XXI, No. 2
STAKES RESULTS
TROPHY WINNERS
DAVIS and Miss MALCOLM SECOND PLACE
Mr. CROCKER and Miss BROCK
THIRD PLACE
HOGAN and Miss DARNLEY
ir
THE SECRETARY
Mr.
Again we welcome back as secretary of. theS.R.C. the popular Alan Lake. Alan very capably fulfilled this position in 1945, and we have every confidence in him for the present
" year.
m An Old Boy of the Melbourne Boys’ High, Alan began teaching
gp
at Gardenvale Central School in. 1942, and spent the following
■Égli year as T.H.T. at Jumbuk. His WÊÊM popularity and ability was soon recognised when he entered Col
lege in 1944, for he was immedi
ately elected group leader. The primary year proved very successful for Alan in all fields. Returning on a scholarship for an Arts course Alan diligently set about performing the task as secretary, a position to which he had been elected. 1945 again proved happy and successful for Alan, and he is back with us again as bright as ever.
His special interests are music (piano and sing
ing—you should hear him sing!), oil painting, and nice girls.
He says he loves the Bendigo district and takes a great interest in cars that go.
Alan has gained special awards in football and tennis, and was swimming champion in 1945.
To you, Alan, we say, “Good hunting”!
Vf
Mr. Alan Lake
Mr.
Many favourable mentions
JUDGES’ REPORT
stage things became a little mixed as one Lake did take Hutton for a ham! Our president assures us that all was above board, but at times the boat seemed to be unoccupied. We wonder...
maybe they were “awestricken”.
GENERAL NOTES
1. Prerequisites :— The judges are very pleas
ed to be able to report that never before have male Yarra Stakians had such a commanding grasp of the fundamentals. Everywhere young bloods were pulled gracefully along the quiet waters by their fairer companions. We regret to announce that one unhappy young man did row muchly—such is the ideal state of matrimony !
2. Difficulties of Selection:— This year the selection was exceedingly difficult. We feel that many of our returned colleagues have enjoyed the sweet fruits of this type of combat before, and therefore placed the chances of the less experi
enced competitors in some doubt. Nevertheless many of these later stalwarts turned on outstand
ing performances, and as the day progressed smoothly amid splashing and laughter, black eyes and blushing, the judges found the position rapid
ly getting out of hand. However a decision was finally reached. Competitors who feel that they missed the judge’s eye should be particularly bucked—such obscurity often results in a minor place for work well done, though unseen.
In conclusion, the judges wish to commend all candidates on the high standard of work exhib
ited and hope that this standard will be maintained throughout 1946
Sergeant Reed Trophy Æci
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
1. Mr. Conway and Miss Crimmins:— This couple after exhausting all possibilities on the river finally took to the bank. When seen by the official party, Miss Crimmins was frantically en
treating Frank to be less informal. We trust that the position has been rectified.
2. Mr. Mason and Miss Guppy:— Not to be outdone by the excellence of the proceeding couple, Tony and Mary dispensed with all formality and shook hands. May their relations be always congenial.
3. Mr. Clarke and Miss Connors :— Al Clarke thought that he would evade the eagle eyes of the judges. However we wish to inform this gentleman that where there’s smoke there’s fire, and we can assure him that any Indian would be proud of the smoke signals he sent up. Incident
ally he wasn’t in distress !
The President, Secretary, Timekeeper and Deputy Demonstrator of the T.C.K.C.
To members of this most devastating club- greeting!
(1) Whereas the pernicious institution desig
nated the Camera Club picnic at Studley-on-Yarra has hitherto and heretofore been destitute of a tangible trophy wherewith to reward, compensate, commemorate, and render permanent the most gallant feat of arms performed on these most suspicious occasions, ergo, hence and there
fore, the executive administrative council of the T.C.K.C. hath decreed that a trophy shall now, henceforth and for evermore, T.C.K.C. without end, be donated, given, awarded or otherwise settled upon the selected candidate who has shown the most consistent, excellent, sustained, tireless, energetic, devoted, rapid, speedy, serviceable, hearty, long-continued, magnussifent, and success
ful attention to beauty, brooking no opposition, and for this year of grace one thousand nine hundred and forty-five, the prize, trophy, pot, jug, bowl, cistern, bucket, or cup shall be given and hereby is given and donated by the Timekeeper and Secretary of the T.C.K.C.
Moreover it shall be known, to whit, to-whoo, as the Sergeant Reed Trophy, and shall, anything herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding, remain in the possession of, and the personal property of the winner until the day of his de
parture from the state of single blessedness.
Moreover, the President, who shall be a member of the said devastating, suspicious society, of not less than one year’s standing, shall ordain that the said pot, cistern or trophy shall be, from time to time, at periods to be determined by a special committee reporting on times presented, bestowed, or otherwise given at a full assembly of the T.C.K.C. to that said candidate who has been deemed worthy by the committee consisting of not less than three of the following executive offi
cers:
VERY HONOURABLE MENTION
Mr. Sherman and Miss Watson:— This pair made the pace a cracker from the word go! It was rumoured that Miss Watson was in a bit of a quandary as to what went on. Mr. Sherman put her doubts at rest. Congratulations—
you just missed third place.
AWARDS GOOD SHOW
Mr. Cross and Miss Seddon:— The quiet con
sistency of our president and vice-president was indeed gratifying to note. Their effort shows only too well that practice leads to perfection. The pleasant old world companionship that existed between these two was like a breath of days gone by, when men were men and women were glad of it. We are however of the opinion that a jump of more than half a century occurred in one sweet moment beneath a weeping willow—
but we cannot vouch for this.
soon
THIRD PLACE
Mr. Hogan and Miss Darnley:— Miss Damley’s work of previous years is well known to the judges. Greatly assisted by her partner, an al
ready experienced man, this, young couple won their spurs by sheer stamina coupled with a vigorous attack throughout the day. Made ex
cellent use of all natural vegetation.
V
FINE PERFORMANCES
SECOND PLACE
Mr. and Mrs. Bailey:— This couple were ab
solutely nonplussed by all that happened around them. According to our records such a combin
ation is unique in all previous Yarra Stakes.
2. Mr. Potter and Miss Emerson :— The fact, that these two contestants had a seat in the judges boat rather queered their pitch, but in spite of the roving eye some excellent work was done.
3. Mr. McCubbin and Miss Dorrington :— We feel that Dave and Iris deserve a mention although frequent splashing oscillated the boat to such a degree that osculation at times became rather difficult. Still Dave overcame this setback with his customary dash.
4. Mr. Lake, Miss Hutchison, Mr. Lacy and Miss Hutton:— This foursome had the judges puzzled at times by their odd behaviour. At one
Both new- Mr. Crocker and Miss Brock:—
comers to the game but soon rose to unprece
dented heights of display. Found the willows early in the piece and from all reports could not be dislodged. Late home—a good point.
f
FIRST PLACE
(2) The President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Stenographer, Timekeeper, Head Demonstrator and his certified Assistant Deputy Demonstrator, Acting Deputy Demonstrator, Assisting Deputy Demonstrator, Acting Assistant Deputy Demonstrator, and Temporary Acting Deputy Assistant Chief of the Demonstrating Staff.
(3) This Act shall, to all intents and purposes, be cited as the Sergeant Reed Trophy Act, 1928.
From the Mr. Davis and Miss Malcolmn:—
outset it was apparent that this young couple’s enthusiasm would run riot. Over-exuberance was nearly fatal. Made the boats early only to be recalled by the judges—a poor show! Never
theless they soon settled down, and their brilliance, forcefulness, and general all round ability astounded even the extendeds. Their co
operation was a pleasure to watch.
#
V
Æround the
BROWNE HOUSE 5.(UO>.
At the full assembly on Monday, March 4, Mr.
Cross, the president of the Student Council, offi
cially announced the formation of a new house in Teachers’ College. Over the past few years, proposals for the formation of a fourth House have been discussed, but owing to difficulties such as limited numbers and mishaps due to war
time conditions, it was felt that such proposals should be rejected.
This year, with a vast increase in the number of students,. Student Representatives thought fit to approach Mr. Law with the matter for dis
cussion. After discussing the matter with the Executive the Principal agreed that a new House be established. The new House—Browne House
•—was named after an ex-Principal of College, as were Tate, Smyth, and Wrigley Houses. In order that the House will gain a fair quota of students, it is intended to re-allocate all students afresh, but office-bearers already elected this year will retain their positions after re-allocation.
With the establishment of Browne House sport
ing fixtures must need be altered, but sport in College should receive great benefits. For years the House competitions have always been un
balanced, and one House has had to stand out while competitive matches between the other two Houses have been played. Now, two House matches will be able to take place on the same day, and this, besides allowing all sport lovers to participate, should greatly increase general inter
est in College sport.
House Colours : Smyth . Wrigley Tate . . Browne
Wear your House colours at all House functions.
Since last month the College has swung into full stride and T.C.L.D.S. fixtures have taken an important part in the activities. The model de
bate, held at Assembly, March 4, made a success
ful opening for the series of six inter-House de
bates to be held during the year.
We regret that Miss Hamono cannot be with us yet, but she has accepted the office of president with Miss Wainwright as vice-president to carry on in her absence.
Don’t forget “Rose Marie” on Friday, 22. It is our second night, but we hope to be able to fill all the allotted seats.
Watch the notice-boards for lunch-time fix
tures — community singing, palais, etc.
promise you something very interesting in the near future.
Shatvs
“A SONG TO REMEMBER”
It is certain that all who view this screen pro
duction will leave the session feeling that here we have an open avenue whereby everybody may hear and appreciate the music of the masters, a practice which until recent times has been shared by a limited few. But in films such as the above and “The Great Mr. Handel” music genii such as Schubert, Chopin, Handel are dragged from their pedestals, where they have been revered and admired by the minority, to become flesh and blood before our eyes, and experience those emotions, which prompted such rare and beautiful works, afresh for us.
But this is to be a criticism of one of these films in particular, “A Song to Remember,” so one . cannot stand deliberating over the cultural advan
tages to excess. As to the portrayal of the char
acter of Chopin one may ask oneself “Did he appear to me the man whould have written the music I have known for years?” For myself, he did not, but each person’s opinion must neces
sarily differ on this point and facts must be faced.
It is evident from the beginning of the film that the effect aimed at and, I believe, achieved, is the intensity of emotion in the make-up of the pianist causing his heart to rule his head in all things.
Take the scene where, when only a child, he saw his countrymen being transported to Siberia, and put his heart and soul into the secret society working on their behalf. Then came his infatua
tion for George Sand, causing ■ him to leave all for which he had previously worked, until finally his heart was torn asunder by these two con
flicting emotions, and only after a sore battle did his patriotic fervour win through.
The character of George Sand suffered, I be
lieve, owing to the producer’s necessity to main
tain our sympathy with the first man of the film, but as this end was achieved we must accept Madame Sand in her hard and selfish entirety, even though it lacks the ring of sincerity and trueness to life. A memorable figure contrasting , strongly to that Madame Sand is the unaffected, unselfish, lovable and connoisseur of real genius, Joseph Eisner. His role provides humour and pathos. However, the film is made by the charm
ing, and at times stirring, music of Frederic Chopin. The composer’s two opposing moods are characterised by the continual and appropriate introduction of his Etude, a charming composi
tion with its dominant note of plaintiveness and longing and his Polonaise, with its stirring patriotic qualities. Other works magnificently rendered are Fantaisie Impromptu and Valse in C minor, one of the commendable points being the often-completed performance rather than mere
“glimpses of notes.” As to the effect of such a film on the general public need we go further than to glance in the window of Melbourne’s lead
ing music stores, or to listen to popular radio programmes to discover the growing appreciation of real music and to witness the triumphant re
turn of the music master to the home ? MARION M. DAWSON.
We
L. G. DALE, Secretary.
V. T. U.
“We would like to enter a most emphatic protest against the suggestion—that the Depart
ment might be forced to employ students from Teachers’ College for “supervised” teaching in Rural Schools.
“We make this protest'with a full knowledge of the situation, and of the difficulties which the department has to face, but we say emphatically, that under no conditions, should the already wholly inadequate year of training at tire Teach
ers College be reduced.
“To speak of teaching as a profession, and at the same time send out young teachers with a Trained, Teachers’ Certificate after a course last
ing only seven or eight months is a misuse of words. Victoria already lags behind the other states in a course of professional training it supplies, and we call upon you as Minister to refuse to lower thé standard.
“We realise that a decision to close schools with less than ten children may cause political reactions—but the blame lies on the heads of previous administrations. “The present situation in Rural areas is due not only to the shortage of man power,—it is bound up with the lack of facilities of board and residence. The gov
ernment, which in the last ten years built only 34 residences, when at least 500 were required, must accept its full share of the blame.
“It is doubtful whether the country child will gain more from three different teachers in twelve months, than he would from a balanced course of correspondence tuition, but the loss of professional training by the students of the college will never be made up.
“We believe that an attempt was made at the Teachers’ College in 1945 to cover in 7 or 8 months the full year’s course. We cannot say whether this was successful or not, but we do know that the medical officers of the Department, at their examinations towards the close of the year, found it necessary to urge the students to undertake special courses of diet to build themselves up for the following year. This illus
trates the strain under which they work.
“We would like to suggest for your consider
ation, the following ideas:—
1. As practically all other states demand an average attendance of eight or nine children before a teacher is supplied, Victoria, should raise the required number from 5 to 8.
2 That in all other cases, the education of the children be trusted to the Correspondence School.
3. That District Inspectors be asked to suggest areas where the children may be dispersed to other schools.
4. That every possible use be made of existing bus routes for the conveyance of children to larger schools.
6. That motor-cycles be made available from Army Stores, and that young male teachers make a circuit of, say, ten schools, calling on each, say half a day a week. The difficulties of individual children doing correspondence courses could then be cleared up without delay.
“The Union feels that the Government must make a firm stand in this matter. The proposed use of Trainees mortgages the future for the sake of the present, and is indefensible on every ground. If this! plan is continued for 1946, it will he still more difficult to refuse to adopt it in 1947, and even if there is a successful recruiting drive this year, there is likely to be a shortage of suitable teachers in ’47.
“We ask, therefore, that whatever final de
cision is made, the use of Trainees at the College be definitely ruled out of court.”
Thus the Union executive approached Mr. Field.
Are the Trainees satisfied with their minute allowances? NO! Neither is Council.
Is sufficient accommodation available for Teachers’ College Trainee Staff? NO! NO!
Hence Council is aiming to have building pur
chased by the Government, to be used as Teachers’ Hostel.
Fancy any one not belonging to such a strong active Union as the Victorian Teachers’ Union!
All Trainees realize the value of 100% Unionism,
“United we stand”. United we shall regain the full professional status lost by our fore-fathers.
Wilf. James F. Bernoth (Secretary T. C. Union)
. Gold . Red Green . Blue
UP AT A VILLAGE—DOWN IN THE CITY
Did you know that the village girls had great difficulties in adjusting themselves to city ways.
For instance :
The Hostel woman who ordered 96 sandwiches for one lunch (of course she meant 24 sandwiches, not 24 rounds.)
The Fleet being in, the village girls had to acquire a certain proficiency in playing U.
Dodgem in Collins Street.
The earnest young judge at Yarra Stakes who decided to become familiar with the details of rowing (demonstration at breakfast, if you please) that she might justify her position.
Learning to ignore the blood-curdling screams, etc., that occur in Grattan Street in the wee sma’
hours.
And, of course .... MEN.
Oh, well! We’ll learn !
BENDIGONIANS.
Exie Echoes
If YOU have—EXIE ECHOES—
please send them to the Editor.
Ada Adamson, Joan Brenton and Barbara Morgan are all on the staff of Foster H.E.S.
Margaret (Peggy) Adamson is head mistress at Quambatook East State School. ’Way in the dust.
Aileen Severino writes to tell us she is back at Vectis East via Horsham. Says “its just beaut”
after twelve months in the Mallee. Aileen still looks forward for her “Griffin”.
Allan Pedder scorches back and forth to his home at Dandenong from Yarrawonga, on a new motor bike.
ICath. O’Dowd finds South Pakenham S.S. quite good fun, but often thinks of the “good old Coll.”
Denny Evans says the “sunny northern city”, Mildura, is treating him well. Believes himself an interstate swimmer after his bathe in the Murray. Olive Robbins and Max Dooley are also on the staff at Mildura High. Write again, Denny.
' Miss Glen. Vale in College, 1944, and on the staff 1945, is teaching a spot of cooking at Sale Technical School.
Jack Loney (1944-45) takes Geometry, Art and Woodwork at Beechworth H.E.S. Is unofficial sportsmaster and is taking on riding and skiing not to mention photography. Sends down big spinners with the local cricket club and has joined the free library.
Tom Wehner (Dumbo) (1945) has charge of Framlingham aboriginal school—36 pupils and a sewing mistress who can’t sew.
Is buying a motor-bike so perhaps we’ll be seeing Tom soon.
Leo Tierney (1945) S.S. Hillcrest via Ballarat.
Plays tennis nightly and attends all the local social functions. Is well known in the district.
Has 9 pupils, 100 tobacco tins and a bottle of clag.
Extract from inventory. “No clock, no wireless, no projector, no globe, no barometer, no hammer, no ability, no interest, no cooperation, no fun riding home in the rain”.
Glady’s Worthington (1945) is one of the harassed teachers on Warragul H.S. staff—
shortstaffed at present so that classes of 80 or so are common. Is assistant sports mistress and runs a gym. club weekly.
“ROSE MARIE”
The stage- show of “Rose Marie” resembles the picture of that name only in the inclusion of such well known songs as “Rose Marie” and “The Indian Love Call”. Its plot is slender. Rose Marie, a charming French maiden, is in love with Jim Kenyon, a daring outlaw, but her greedy brother, with an eye on another suitor’s money, attempts to prevent her. The rest of the play tells of his partial success, and his eventual (and inevitable) defeat.
But the story is only a means of introducing some pleasing musical numbers and delightful ballet scenes. Joy Beattie, as Rose Marie, handles her songs capably in her strong, but not particu
larly melodious, voice; but Max Oldaker’s voice is too light for a husky hero of the Rockies.
Perhaps it is because he is supposed to look the dashing, romantic type, that Oldaker is chosen for the lead in the show, but his bow legs, affected voice, and wooden acting are unconvincing.
Dan Nicol is good. His topical quips, loud cos
tumes, and lively caperings brighten the show immensely, keeping the audience on its toes.
Without him, and his partner Natalie Raine, the show would move slowly, sometimes laboriously.
The ballet, as usual, is delightful. Th-e Minuet Waltz, with the girls dressed in bright pink, green, blue and yellow full-skirted frocks and con
trasting flower hats, is as pretty as the “Gavotte”
in the ballroom is stately. A _ discussion of the ballet would be incomplete without mentioning the Totem Tom Tom ballet. Forty youngsters, in bright yellow, red and green. Indian costumes sway rhythmically as changing lights eerily sweep the stage.
Any criticism of this amateur criticism will be welcome and instructive.
IRENE BURKITT.
THE GRIFFIN MARCH, 1946
►*V
i
9
JOIN
MULLENS’ LIBRARY
and read the best books.
History, Biography, Travel and Fiction available to subscribers.
The large quantities of each book placed in circulation enable anyone to obtain an
early reading of the book required.
Catalogue and Terms on Application Mullens’ Library.
ROBERTSON AND MULLENS LTD., 107-113 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
*
*
INTROSPECTION
My mind is scarce possessed by me—
A ' vagrant wanderer, so it seems, Which dances down a hidden way Pursuing wraith-like ■ misty dreams.
It lingers in a solitary place,
But thoughts all clamorous dim the quiet And shrieking with a bestial clang Commit a foul and murderous riot;
Then like the slime upon a pond Invade the glow of tranquil joy Which filled the brain one instant since And with insidious lust destroy.
The writhing, torturous, twisted shapes Storm in at night to strangle calm, Then madly whirl with wild unrest To clutch at reason in alarm, Until the silver morning star Can banish each into a Lethe Of more forgetfulness and haze Repressed in quagmires far beneath.
ERNESTINE LOBB.
y
*
JOKES
1st Prime: “What House are you in?”
2nd Prime: “I’m in 36 Storey Street. How about you?”
(What a mann!!)
COLLEGE MOTTO
The loneliness of the bush recalled a College motto to one exie:
NON OMNIBUS ANYWHERE.
“MERRIE ENGLAND”
The Botanic Gardens was the glorious setting for a vast congregation of people who witnessed the superb performance of German’s “Merrie England.”
The orchestra, under Hector Crawford’s con- ductorship, although it was inclined to lack, zest, gave a very satisfying rendition, especially in Act II; indeed all artists appeared to better advantage then.
Glenda Raymond, who was encored for “O, Who Shall Say,” was perhaps the artiste to stand out the most. William Herbert’s rich tenor voice blended delightfully with hers in the duet, “Come to Arcadie.” The remaining soloists maintained the high standard set by the hero and heroine.
Eric Pearce’s synopsis, while omitting all irrelevant facts was sufficiently detailed to ensure - continuity of theme.
The only fault (if it could be called such) was the lack of universal appdal of German’s music.
Most people, though finding the lyrics were not distasteful, would, I think, have preferred a light opera with better known arias.
Nevertheless, everyone connected with the pro
duction of “Merrie England” deserved the un
grudging approval given by over 120,000 people.
F. SCOBERG.
MARRIED
■Joy Freeman (1943-44) to Lawrence Geering R.A.N.
Dorothy Hill to Neil Weir.
f
ENGAGED
to F/O Kenneth Collins, Barbara Miles
R.A.A.F., returned.
HERE’S
THE
“KEY-MAN”
This year, our treasurer is Mr. Jack Lacy—
Lacy Secundus, as he is known—for Jack is con
tinuing the good work that his brother Harold performed during last year.
Jack is the youngest son of a family of five boys, who have been bom and bred up at Cam
brian Hill, via Ballarat. Follow
ing his brother’s footsteps, Jack entered the teaching profession in 1942, and two years later found him in College. Throughout his primary year Jack proved a keen all-rounder, and he returned in 1945 to begin an Arts course on a F
Mr. Jack Lacy
scholarship.
Jack’s hobbies include I.T.C. courses and, of locker-key collection. He loves hockey, course,
and plays a very good game.
We can rest assured that Jack will prove his worth this year in the task he has undertaken, and we wish him every success and good wishes for 1946.
■
•
■
New and Revised Edition . . .
The Principles and Technique of Teaching
in Elementary Schools
j
By JAMES W. ELIJAH, M.A., M.EcL and JOHN A. COLE, B.A., M.Ed.
In this completely revised edition of the standard work on teaching in Victorian schools, the pur
pose has been to analyse the fundamental concep
tions of the learning process and set down the guiding principles and methods of teaching in the elementary school. Entirely new chapters are those in Class-room Organization and Manage
ment, Physical Education, Handwork, and Tests and Examinations, and the chapters in Oral and Written Expression, History, Geography, Citizen
ship, Nature Study and Art have been re-written in toto. Throughout the book the materials have been drawn from a wide field of reading as well as from the results of practical teaching ex
perience. The foreword is by Mr. W. H. Ellwood.
I
665 Pages PRICE 17/6 Fully Indexed
WHITCQMBE& TOMBS Pty.Ltd.
332 COLLINS ST., MELBOURNE, C.l, and at SYDNEY and PERTH
Telephone: F2969
YOUR COLLEGE CHEMIST
R, S. Miller
Ph.C., F.V.O.A.
(MARKHAM’S PHARMACY) Chemist and Optician
192 Lygon Street, Carlton, N.3.
FIRST FORTNIGHT
It was the fifth of February, when meek and mild, I presented myself at the celebrated home of the “Griffin”. Promptly despatched to a huge hall I found myself shyly singing rounds with about three hundred others, whose sophisticated ennui probably hid embarrassments as burning as mine. The lovely-eyed blonde alongside for in
stance—was she as familiar with this Peel fellow as her singing implied, or was it merely a cover
ing for first-day shynéss ? Ah, well, Ì thought, why worry! Losing some of my shyness I began to sing lustily when I heard a well known tune and was soon quite at home.
In the middle of one of my favourites, I heard a sniff on my left, while on my right side indig
nant silence reigned. I was really glad to get out of the hall.
But what an escape it proved to be. From the reproachful eyes of an innocent maid I fled to the muscle-bound clutches of the Phys. Ed. fiends. I was stripped, thrown into shorts and singlet, and handed over to one Hamilton, who blew fiery smoke through his nose as he chortled his glee.
With his minions flourishing pitchforks and dancing ecstatically on cloven hooves we were herded into cramped seats for endless hours.
Utterly spent, we were taken to an arena where we were forced to run madly about,,stopping only to be tied in knots or dive over our heads! A brief break for lunch, then we were taken to the coldest stretch of water available and ruthlessly tossed in. Our wretched screams were ignored by the horrible horde. They raced round hurling survivors back. We had to swim out carrying the body of a colleague, and if we were successful at this we were clothed in leaden suits and put into even icier areas.
They had a friend there to enjoy our writhings and even saved some of us for the morrow’s sport.
And today someone said, “Things will start in earnest soon!”
“U and I”.
WELCOME BALL
On Friday, March 8, happy College students wended their way to the first peace-time Welcome Ball held in the Brunswick Town Hall. This ex
cellent hall provided an ideal setting for this event.
A return to pre-war splendour was clearly noticed among the dancers. Our fashion reporter was very impressed, and forecasts even grander splen
dour at the forthcoming Balls.
Neville Field certainly lived up to his reputa
tion as the leader of the “Cheerio” orchestra.
Their brightly presented music was a pleasure to all. Many exies were noted among the happy throng. They included Glen Vale, Ivy Burge, Frank Seymour, Ken Mawson, Harold Lacy, Jim Douglas, Jack Store, Jim White, and others.
The very enjoyable night came to an end at the early hours of the morning and the dancers wended thèir way homeward. (If only the
“Griffin” could speak!)
The French examinees found some heady prob
lems next morning. Smithy had taken some aids
—two boxes of matches, a packet of aspros and a cigarette butt, with a small dose of arsenic.
“Au revoir” for the present. See you at Wrig- ley Ball.
KEVIN SPAIN, Social Secretary.
The
Victorian Teachers’ Union
Protects the individual rights and watches over the welfare of its members.
It has always given special atten
tion to the claims of Trainees.
It has fought for larger allow
ances: for longer courses of train
ing: for new buildings at the Col
lege, for closer relations with the University.
The V.T.U
looks to the Trainees for active support for its programme of higher salaries and better condi
tions.
FRED THOMAS, Secretary.
Box 1670, G.P.O., MELBOURNE, C.l.
WISE AND OTHERWISE
THE GRIFFIN MARCH, 1946
Neti
*
MARCH, 1946 THE GRIFFIN
SPOTS OF SPORT
Forty-Forty
The Editor, “Griffiin”, Dear Sir,
Recently I had the privilege of reading the first post-war issue of the Melbourne High School news-sheet, “Sentinel”. This news-sheet, which is twice the size of our “Griffiki”, is published six times per term, and apart from the guidance of a member of Staff, is compiled and edited wholly by the boys. I was greatly impressed by the wide variety of articles, which included sporting notes, film reviews, a section devoted to world personali
ties and typical schoolboy humour. This news- sheet, a credit to the boys, presented something than the mere topical ; each article shows that a great deal of thought had been devoted to both matter and style.
Having read the “Griffin” regularly for a number of years, I have yet to notice any effort to raise the standards of our news-sheet. It is an amazing fact that in an institution such as this, where over 500 reasonably well-educated people gather each year, the “Griffin” is rarely able to publish any worth-while article. Never has a concerted effort been made to produce literary, musical or art criticism (there is sufficient scope for this in college); discussion of current prob
lems is non-existent; indeed the “Griffin”, in spite of its mythological greatness, appears to lack a policy of any nature. In the past it has been a happy hunting ground for gentle personal satire and humour reminiscent of Elizabethan times.
Standards, if they exist, are pitiful—surely it is not a true cross-section of College opinion and attitude. I could not help feeling, Mr. Editor, that the boys of M.B.H.S. had achieved something that the “Griffin” has yet to achieve—that is a well balanced diet of the serious and humourous
—our “Griffin” has been fed on too much of the latter. Is this state of affairs to continue this year? Are we to admit that the students of this College are incapable of contributing articles of any standard to its own news-sheet ? I realise, Mr. Éditer, that it is not your duty to write the
“Griffin”, you have to accept most of the material handed in. The move must come from the men and women of the College. The first issue shows great promise, but a combined effort must be made by all students of all courses to raise the literary and material standards of our coveted
“Griffin”. That the quality deserves elevation, is I believe, to be beyond dispute. Our sporting academic and social traditions are extremely rich.
Why not raise the “Griffin” aloft to its justified
position. L. E. CROSS.
[Admirable suggestions, Mr. Correspondent.
Come on, College! How about it?—Ed.]
Ray Stickland, controlling the slippery ball nicely and adapting himself to the conditions, took 3 wickets for 14 runs.
A feature of this game was the keen fielding by both sides.
SCORES:
The Rest 7 for 79 (W. Grubb 38, J. Burke 21;
D. Hametty 3 for 13, S. Sweeney 2 for 23).
Ex-Servicemen 4 for 44 (S. Sweeney 20 not out;
R. Stickland 3 for 14).
B Division
This match was won comfortably by the Ex- Servicemen’s team.
A feature of the match was the fine perfor
mance of Don Holbrook, who made a splendid 30 not out and took five wickets for 7 runs.
CRICKET
Following the abandonment of the match against Melbourne High, two matches were arranged for Wednesday, March 6, and thus cricket commenced for 1946.
Competition was keen and great interest was shown by the numbers of men who rolled up to practice in the cramped quarters of the hockey field.
All men participating, especially the ex-service
men, gave much assistance and co-operated splen
didly in these practices, and in the matches that followed. It can only be hoped that such intense interest is carried throughout the rapidly closing season.
more
SCORES:
*Ex-Servicemen v. The Rest The Rest 57 (K. Bamewall 20, D. Mamager 10;
D. Holbrook 5 for 7, Saunders 3 for 20).
Ex-Servicemen 5 for 60 (D. Holbrook 30 not out, Crocker 14 not out; Ellet 2 for 22).
A Division
Batting first, The Rest compiled a reasonable of 79 for 7 wickets before the time limit score
ended. Creditable performances were shown by Bill Grubb, who batted steadily to score 38 before being run out. Jack Burke, with crisp off and cover drives, reached 21, when Len Falk, the Ser
vices’ keeper, brilliantly stumped him. Len Falk gave a great performance behind the stumps with two stumpings and one catch to his credit.
The bowling side were best served by Dan Hametty, who took 3 wickets for 13, and Stan Sweeney 2 for 23.
Servicemen, batting crisply, scored 44 runs for the loss of 4 wickets before rain put a stop to any further play. Of this score, Stan Sweeney made a confident 20 not out.
B. TOZER, Secretary.
BOXING
Have you ever been assailed by a drunken sloth or an over-impulsive extrovert wishing to display his motor co-ordination by punching you on the nose ? Learn to defend yourself—to deliver at not infrequent intervals an impressive blow. Under the expert instruction of Mr. “Huck” Hamilton, you will teach others to value the result more than the experience.
M. S. JACKSON, Secretary.
S.C.M.
present salary scale, and there is every reason to hope that by the time we leave College it will have been increased. If this be the case, we would have postponed the time when we will receive assistant’s wage for a year at the present rate of pay, and thereby lost a year at whatever increase we may receive under the new Bill.
Yours faithfuly,
“EXTENDED”.
Founded nearly fifty years ago, the S.C.M. (or more formally the Student Christian Movement) is an integral part of a world-wide fellowship of students whose convictions are based on the fact that Christ is the supreme revelation of God and true manhood. That, briefly, is the basis of the Movement. Its membership, however, is open not only to those students who have decided to test with their lives the truth of Christ’s way of life, but to those who are still seeking for the truth of life.
Here are the proposed activities of our College branch:
1. Public Meetings:
Under the title “We Shall Rebuild”, these meetings are a weekly feature. Already Father Thicker has outlined the plan adopted by the Brotherhood of St. Laurence to re-educate the slum-minded people of Fitzroy so that they may one day become home-conscious citizens.
Watch the notice-board for details of further talks and speakers.
2. Discussion Group:
Meeting each Friday in the West reading room this group hopes to discuss the ideas suggested by the weekly talk. Come along and air your views!
3. Prayer Group
You will find this small group on the roof each Wednesday and Friday at 8.35 a.m. (before lec
tures begin) until the drought breaks. It would be superfluous to say that without united prayer all our work shall be in vain.
A Student’s Diary
STUDENTS’ DIARY
February 18.—Many extended men late for Assembly; but good excuse, had to obtain “possie”
in boat for the Stakes.
February 22.—Prime: Just what do you do at Yarra Stakes ? Extended: Watch Mon. Cracknell,
^Fh^ofJitters: “Are we going bush for a term?”
February 23.—Yarra Stakes ! ! ! great foresight in making the
liant exhibition of tactics, and strategy by Max and Jan. President and vice-president apparently did solid work, also extended Frank Conway and Tony Mason.
February 25 . .
Mr. Seitz paid us a visit,
straight in our seats. .
Mr. Bernoth’s brilliant address on Organised
Labor”. . „ , , . ,
Tit-bits from Mr. Seitz’s informal and instruc
tive talk:
“Whirled across the world.”
“The plane carried fast mails (males) to England.”
“The Doodle came doodling along, and he doodled away.”
Editor, “Griffin”
Dear Sir, ,,
It is deplorable that in this College of ours there should be so many thoughtless students. To any observer the men’s common room would daily seem to be the headquarters of a waste-paper collection appeal. This would appear to indicate * that the youth of the nation is likely to be en
trusted to teachers who are lacking in that sense of civic duty which is so essential.
Magazines which are periodically placed on the tables seldom survive more than an afternoon.
Some we have discovered in the cloak-room;
others have served as scribbling pads for the mathematically minded.
Cigarette butts are to he found everywhere except in the appropriate receptacles. These are but a few of the inconsiderate acts which daily increase the burden of Bert’s already numerous
duties. ,
We anpeal to the College men to show a little pride in their College and some considera
tion for others.
Men showed Bril- women row.
We all sat up
4. Social Activities:
For fun, freedom and fair maidens come to the 5. C.M. social on Wednesday, March 27, in the gym. at 8 p.m.
Watch the notice-board for details of our pro
posed week-end camp1!
No doubt you will readily agree that if our programme of prayer, study and service is to be carried out successfully we shall need the active support of all those who profess and call them
selves followers of Christ. Here, then is the challenge. The response rests with you, and you alone !
more
Yours faithfully,
“TIME” FOR “PUNCH”. February 26 . , „
Extendeds are swotting vigorously (the finer points of five hundred). Many spines will be badly bruised by the time the University opens.
February 27
Hockey practice starts. With lusty shouts and vicious swipes the greenhorns try to give one another a prolonged holiday.
M Men eyeing the “maids” off with respect to the Ball. One extended man was heard asking the Bendigo woman for some “courage”.
March 4
President Cross was in the commanding position at Assembly. The lecturers leapt to1 their feet at the upward flip of his finger.
Debate: Good arguments on both sides, liant performance by Miss Watson.
March 6 „ , , , ,
Men’s yaffle. Grand time. Extendeds made us very welcome. A pity more of us did not turn up.
An occasion I will long remember. Psycho
galvanic arcs, ask Mr. Hogan.
March 7
Nasty things called “Tutorials”.
March 8 „ „ ,. ,,
Welcome Ball tonight. Some men frantically looking for those things called females to partner them.
Editor, “Griffin”
Dear Sir,
On entering College I was perturbed to learn of the proposal that College Balls should be en
tirely reserved for students of this institution.
As one who has been keeping company with a charming young lady for many years I feel that any suggestions of the above nature may have adverse effect upon our friendship. At all times I have reserved the right to choose my companions, and as one who keenly anticipates attending College Balls I shall treat any prohibi
tion as an unjust imposition.
Surely our humane S.R.C. has sympathy with the situation in which I shall find myself if the proposal is adopted.
GORDON R. MORRISON, Vice-President.
an
Pown
Mrs. BISHOP î
Bril- 678 SWANSTON STREET
3 Doors from Grattan Street Tobacco and Cigarettes Milk, Sweets
Fresh Sandwiches and Cakes Daily.
Lunches Cut to Order
Yours faithfully,
“AMOUR”.
Editor, “Griffin”
Dear Sir, , . , ,
I fail to see any advantage to be gained by any student volunteering to teach in country High Schools. To do so means to postpone the com
pletion of his or her, degree for a year; it also means that though the pecuniary remuneration would be welcome, we would be paid at the
N.X., and published by the Students’ Council, Teachers’ College, Carlton, Nd, Printed by W. A. Hamer Pty. Ltd., ZI5-Z17 Peel Street, North Melbourne,
