In her address to the 2012 graduating class at their Valedictory Dinner, Mrs Judy Dyson said:

“I firmly believe that with humility and compassion, you have a great power – the power to take others with you in the quest for a better world.”

Wilderness has always been guided by this principle and an unwavering belief that our core values will guide each girl to be the best she can be.

This began with the Misses Brown, and to this day, we strive for Wilderness girls to show unlimited kindness in relationships, be adventurous learners and always remain their true and courageous self.

Mrs Dyson exemplified our values, leading with grace, kindness and wisdom.

Serving Wilderness as Vice-Principal and Head of Senior School for 18 years between 1995 and 2012, she shaped our culture and made a lasting impact on thousands of girls, staff and families.

Last Friday, we paid tribute to Mrs Dyson by naming our new First VIII Rowing Boat in her honour.

It was a special opportunity to reflect on her legacy and celebrate the beginning of a new rowing season with our community, staff, students, and Mrs Dyson’s family.

As we head into the holiday break, I encourage our girls to think of Mrs Dyson and her words.

Each and every one of them has great power. A power to be kind, to show compassion and to be grateful. A power to positively impact those around her.

I urge them to take some time during the holidays to practice kindness and gratitude for their teachers, parents, and friends.

I am grateful for our dedicated staff and the enormous amount of work they put in during Term 3. I am also so thankful that we have been able to learn together on campus and in person this term and for your ongoing support as we continue to navigate the pandemic.

The break is an essential time for us all to pause, look after our wellbeing, and spend quality time as a family. I hope you and your daughter have a restful break and return refreshed and ready for Term 4.

As we approach the end of the year, we have a busy term ahead with several important traditions and events scheduled. These include:

• Year 12 Leavers Day and Valedictory Dinner – Friday 22 October
• Junior School Prize Giving Assembly and Year 6 Graduation – Monday 29 November
• Parents and Friends Farewell to Jane Danvers Drinks – Friday 26 November
• Advent Service – Monday 29 November
• Middle School Prize Giving Assembly – Tuesday 30 November
• Speech Night – Tuesday 30 November
• Junior School Christmas Concert – Friday 3 December

I look forward to welcoming you back through the Hawkers Road gates on Monday 11 October, for our final term and celebrating the achievements of each of the girls this year.