We are proud to celebrate the success of our old scholars and their many achievements. Here, we profile some of our community and share an insight into their lives beyond the Wilderness School gates.
When a student becomes an old scholar, she joins a diverse community and network of women, globally, formalising a life-long bond created over shared educational experiences.
We are inspired by their individual journeys and successes, both professionally and personally. Read about their memories of their time at Wilderness, their favourite memories and their valuable advice on the Wilderness Old Scholars Facebook page.
We caught up with Hannah Frank (2004) recently and asked her to reflect on her life after Wilderness. Here’s what she had to say!
We caught up with Hannah Frank (2004) recently and asked her to reflect on her life after Wilderness. Here’s what she had to say!
Career highlights
Getting a job offer at Google in 2018. There is an urban legend that it’s harder to get into Google than Harvard!
More recently, I have re-joined the office of the Hon Anthony Albanese MP as Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister. The chance to contribute each day to decisions which affect all Australians is a huge responsibility, but also a great honour.
Favourite teacher at Wilderness
Mrs Farrell was an extraordinary teacher. She taught Thinking and Learning classes and History in Year 12 and brought Europe to life through vivid re-enactments. Her passion for her subject matter was truly contagious.
Wilderness Value that endures
The love of learning has definitely stayed with me. I feel like we were always encouraged to extend ourselves and able to follow our interests. I still regularly take new courses to learn new skills.
Favourite thing to do in Adelaide
Without doubt, visit the Central Market. It’s my first stop every time I go home.
Things on the Bucket List
I’d love to live overseas at some point.
Become fluent in another language.
See the Northern Lights.
More trivially, I am determined to master poaching eggs without them disintegrating into a soup!
Dream long lunch companion
Julia Louis-Dreyfus. A phenomenal actor and comedian who is deeply engaged with causes she cares about.
Three can’t live without things
My two best friends, who I met on day one of Year 5 at Wilderness - nearly 25 years ago!
My Australian passport.
Excellent Vietnamese pho from Marrickville. Therapy in a bowl!
Advice to 18-year-old self
Trust your instincts, travel even more, try lots of things, but also learn to quit early and often when things aren’t working out, keep learning, and remember to enjoy the process of getting things done, as well as the outcomes.
While at Wilderness for the Careers Fair, we asked old scholar Grace Escott (2018) on what she is up to these days.
While at Wilderness for the Careers Fair, we asked old scholar Grace Escott (2018) on what she is up to these days.
Current role
Consultant, Ernst & Young (EY)
What is your most significant career highlight?
Getting a graduate position at EY, and then being promoted in August of the same year.
Who was your favourite teacher at Wilderness, and why?
Mr Hawkins, he was a legend and supported me always.
What Wilderness value has stayed with you?
Being A True and Courageous Self
What is the most special/significant memory you have of your time at Wilderness?
Receiving the Mary Ann Matthews Scholarship in my final year of school and using the funds to travel to Sri Lanka to volunteer at a girls orphanage.
My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is…
Visiting new bars and restaurants!
Name three places, activities or experiences that are on your bucket list
Experiencing a European summer, going skydiving and travelling to New York City for Christmas.
If you could have a long lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Paris Hilton
What are the three things you can’t live without?
Shopping, my dog and my friends.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game” – A Cinderella Story
You may have seen Michelle Horne (2008) in BAE Systems' recent ‘Infinite Possibilities’ campaign, where she unpacks her role as a Software Engineer Lead. We took the opportunity to ask Michelle some questions.
You may have seen Michelle Horne (2008) in BAE Systems' recent ‘Infinite Possibilities’ campaign, where she unpacks her role as a Software Engineer Lead. We took the opportunity to ask Michelle some questions.
Career highlights
Putting a product we built in front of an end user and being there to see how it assists them. It's a nerve wracking experience; you learn so much from seeing how your products are used.
Favourite teacher at Wilderness
I was always into IT and computers; I remember IT classes with Mrs Green were always fun and engaging.
I really appreciated the passion that Ms Douvartzidis has for Maths and Maths education.
I also have always had great respect for Mrs Judy Dyson, who was always very helpful with time available for a chat. No issue was too hard to solve.
Wilderness Value that endures
It might sound naff, but I think the motto "Always True" has stayed with me. I interpret it as being yourself, true to yourself and others.
Fondest memory of Wilderness
I don't think I appreciated it at the time, but looking back, the quality of education and resources at hand was extremely special. With that, I believe I had a lot more experiences than I would have otherwise.
Favourite thing to do in Adelaide
I love the café scene; I love going out for brunch on a weekend with my partner and (more recently) puppy.
Things on the Bucket List
I'd love to go back to Japan and attend a music festival while we are there.
I'd like to write and record a song at least once in my lifetime.
For a while, I've wanted to give stand-up comedy a try. It scares me just thinking about it, though!
Dream long lunch companion
The first person who came to mind was Gerard Way—the musician, artist and writer who is most well known as the lead singer of My Chemical Romance. I'd love to talk about music, comics and even writing for kids television.
Three can’t live without things
Art, creativity and humour.
Advice to 18-year-old self?
Don't worry about what other people think, you do you.
Meet Old Scholar, Jaz Daniel (Class of 2013), a trailblazer in the legal industry. Read her inspiring journey, challenges and moments that define her story.
GET TO KNOW YOUR OLD SCHOLAR COMMUNITY
Jaz Daniel (Class of 2013)
Meet Old Scholar, Jaz Daniel (Class of 2013), a trailblazer in the legal industry. Read her inspiring journey, challenges and moments that define her story, below:
Current role
I am a partner at Barbaro Thilthrope Lawyers. We are presently in the process of rebranding as Barbaro Thilthorpe Daniel Lawyers and my becoming a Director.
What is your most significant career highlight?
Winning an appeal against a murder conviction in the High Court and arguing a sentence appeal in the Court of Appeal.
Who was your favourite teacher at Wilderness, and why?
Ms Douvartzidis. She was so fabulous and full of energy during Year 12 Maths studies. She really challenged and pushed us to our fullest potential.
What Wilderness value has stayed with you?
Courage
What is the most special/significant memory you have of your time at Wilderness?
Year 12 Leaders Day which was a special farewell to our school years and celebration of transitioning into adulthood.
My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is ….
Eat and drink with my girlfriends.
Name three places, activities or experiences that are on your bucket list
A white Christmas in NYC, hot air ballooning in Turkey and visiting Marrakech, Morocco.
If you could have a long lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Freddie Mercury
What are the three things you can’t live without?
My husband, my dog and my sister.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Avoid fast fashion and instead opt for high-quality staples. You will quickly outgrow high school boys! Prioritise your studies, travel and friends - that is investing in yourself.
#140years #alwaystrue #oldscholars #stayconnected #WildyStories
It is a testament to the teaching staff when our students themselves go on to pursue teaching, and come back to Wilderness to teach the next generation of learners. We took the chance to speak to Brooke Porter (Class of 1999) about what she has been up to since leaving and returning, to Wilderness.
GET TO KNOW YOUR OLD SCHOLARS COMMUNITY
Brooke Porter (Class of 1999)
It is a testament to the teaching staff when our students themselves go on to pursue teaching, and come back to Wilderness to teach the next generation of learners. We took the chance to speak to Brooke Porter (Class of 1999) about what she has been up to since leaving and returning, to Wilderness.
Current role and organisation
I am currently the Head of Art and teacher of Art at Wilderness School.
Where has my journey since leaving Wilderness has led me?
After graduating, I pursued an undergraduate degree in Visual Arts, focusing on Printmaking, followed by a degree in teaching Visual Arts, specializing in Secondary Education, both at the University of South Australia. I began my teaching career at Wudinna Area School on the Eyre Peninsula, my hometown where I was also educated up to Year 10. I later taught at Tumby Bay Area School and then at Minlaton District School on the Yorke Peninsula. Eventually, I secured a teaching position back at Wilderness School, where I had boarded in 1998 and 1999.
I married in the first couple of years of employment at Wilderness and soon after started a family. I now have three beautiful children aged 12, 10 and 5.
What is your most significant career highlight?
Developing a ceramics course for Middle School students. With support, I realized this vision and collaborated with the Jam Factory to establish the current Year 9 Inspire course. I find ongoing reward in witnessing the enjoyment of students participating in the course.
Who was your favourite teacher at Wilderness, and why?
Sally Nobbs! She built strong relationships with her students, making her classes enjoyable. Her passion for the subject and sharing her experiences helped consolidate my learning. I particularly enjoyed excursions and camps with Dr. Nobbs, where we explored outside and learned from her and our experiences. My interest in art often relates to scientific concepts, and my artistic practice reflects nature.
What Wilderness value has stayed with you?
Respectful Relationships, particularly kindness. As a student from a rural area, it was important for me to feel the same sense of community I had back home. Wilderness School provided this, with everyone greeting each other warmly, much like in my hometown. Judy Dyson, the former Head of Senior School, exemplified and promoted Respectful Relationships, influencing me both as a student and later as a colleague.
What is the most special/significant memory you have of your time at Wilderness?
Embarking on the 24-hour Canoe Marathon for the Duke of Edinburgh award was an exhilarating adventure shared with my boarding house friends. The challenge pushed us to our limits, but the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie we experienced made it incredibly rewarding.
My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is ….
Exploring Adelaide with my family is always enjoyable. Whether we're discovering new places or trying different activities, every moment together is my favourite thing to do.
Name three places, activities or experiences that are on your bucket list
Three destinations on my bucket list include exploring my family's history in our countries of origin (Germany, Ireland, and England), taking my children to Japan, and visiting Frida Kahlo’s home in Mexico.
If you could have a long lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo, a remarkable woman who defied adversity, was truly ahead of her time and pursued her dreams.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
Coffee, a sketchbook, and a calendar or diary.
What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
"Don't rush through life”.
#140years #alwaystrue #oldscholars #stayconnected #WildyStories
It was a pleasure to reconnect with old scholar Selena Smith (Class of 1983) at her 40-year reunion last year and listen to her recounts of her time at Wilderness! We invited her to be part of our profile series so you could also hear what she has been up to since leaving School!
GET TO KNOW YOUR OLD SCHOLAR COMMUNITY
Selena Smith (Class of 1983)
It was a pleasure to reconnect with old scholar Selena Smith (Class of 1983) at her 40-year reunion last year and listen to her recounts of her time at Wilderness! We invited her to be part of our profile series so you could also hear what she has been up to since leaving School!
Current role and organisation
I am a full-time artist working independently, currently focusing on sustainable art practices.
My journey since leaving Wilderness has led me…
I have had the opportunity to live throughout Australia and New Zealand after marrying David, who recently completed 36 years of full-time military service. This has involved reestablishing my work and friendships every two years.
What is your most significant career highlight?
I have adapted to utilising all my skills and training to reposition myself and secure a new job every time we relocated, without compromising my integrity and creative abilities.
Who was your favourite teacher at Wilderness, and why?
Mrs. Tideman was renowned for her ultimate sense of fair play and her commitment to ensuring that students are respected. Additionally, Mrs. Prosser is due my acknowledgment not only for enhancing my cooking skills but also for raising my awareness about caring for others.
What Wilderness value has stayed with you?
In every aspect, truth is essential; however, an excess of truth can sometimes lead to complications. Additionally, possessing courage is crucial, especially in a life associated with the defence forces, where it is often needed.
What is the most special/significant memory you have of your time at Wilderness?
My most precious memory is the sense of belonging and the safety to be myself, in addition to the numerous plays I participated in, totaling about eight.
My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is ….
Since leaving in 1991, we have returned to visit many times. Now that we have moved back and relocated to the South East, we try to make a trip to Adelaide once a month to eat out, catch up with family and friends and do lots of shopping.
Name three places, activities or experiences that are on your bucket list
We travel frequently and will be heading to South Africa in April. However, I have yet to visit Holland, my father's homeland. I would love to explore the culinary and wine delights of Spain and Portugal. Additionally, I am eager to experience renowned northern countries like Iceland, Denmark and Sweden.
If you could have a long lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Dawn French, Claude Monet, Rowan Atkinson, and Caroline Quentin cover all of my favorite topics.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
I cannot imagine a life without my family, my creative spirit, or a garden.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Life moves swiftly, which makes me think of the importance of savouring each present moment. While tomorrow may be quick, the future holds boundless potential so say Yes to possibilities and the journey may take you somewhere exciting and new.
#140years #alwaystrue #oldscholars #stayconnected #WildyStories
Tessa Rochfort (Class of 1969) has remained active with Wilderness, visiting the school each year to encourage girls to nominate for the Margot Morphett Irwin Scholarship, which Tessa supports with her sister. We appreciate those in our community who make a difference in our students' education through philanthropy.
GET TO KNOW YOUR OLD SCHOLAR COMMUNITY
Tessa Rochfort (Class of 1969)
Tessa Rochfort (Class of 1969) has remained active with Wilderness, visiting the school each year to encourage girls to nominate for the Margot Morphett Irwin Scholarship, which Tessa supports with her sister. We appreciate those in our community who make a difference in our students' education through philanthropy.
We are delighted to share Tessa’s story with our community.
Current role and organisation
Recently retired.
My journey since leaving Wilderness has led me…
Into three very diverse careers, General Nursing and subsequent teaching of Cardio-Thoracic Medicine, Interior Design and Career Counselling with a Swiss Hotel Association School.
What is your most significant career highlight?
Working with the SHA School as a Careers Counsellor for 22 years brought me emotional and mental riches. I had the opportunity to do extensive work in every state and territory in Australia and also afforded the opportunity to promote tertiary education in South Australia, all over the world, including USA, Canada, UK, Sweden, Hong Kong, India and New Zealand. I also have chaired (and still do so) scholarship interview panels at Wilderness and SHA ICHM. Working with young students and helping them gain some sense of direction as a school leaver has been a great privilege.
Who was your favourite teacher at Wilderness, and why?
The Late Mrs. Bills, who taught English and History, was direct, to the point, and appreciated students who put the work in. Because I had NO choice in subject selection (my father made these decisions!) I only had Mrs. Bills for one year, year 9.
What Wilderness value has stayed with you?
A sense of loyalty and friendship. Honesty in all things and kindness.
What is your most special/significant memory of your time at Wilderness?
The boarding house; I have such good friends from that time, even though I started at Wilderness in Grade 0. Boarding was wonderful; it taught me independence and resilience!
My favourite thing to do in Adelaide is ….
See my family and friends.
If you could have a long lunch with anyone, who would it be?
The girls from the boarding house, so many names of day girls, too. Other than Wilderness friends, I would love to have a long lunch with the late Maya Angelou.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
My darling, my extended family and my dear friends.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Go for it! Just like you did all your life. Try not to dwell on the years of criticism. Don’t let the cruel words define you. Remember, always, your mother’s words. THE CREAM RISES TO THE TOP!
#140years #alwaystrue #oldscholars #stayconnected #WildyStories
Inspiring and empowering future female leaders! Dr Samantha Pillay (Class of 1985) has released another inspirational children’s book, the latest in the series being “When I’m the Prime Minister”. We contacted Samantha and asked her to share her journey since leaving Wilderness, see her response below:
GET TO KNOW YOUR OLD SCHOLAR COMMUNITY
Dr Samantha Pillay (Class of 1985)
Inspiring and empowering future female leaders! Dr Samantha Pillay (Class of 1985) has released another inspirational children’s book, the latest in the series being “When I’m the Prime Minister”. We contacted Samantha and asked her to share her journey since leaving Wilderness, see her response below:
Finishing Year 12 at age 16, in 1985, it was extraordinarily ambitious to dream of becoming a surgeon. Less than 4% of surgeons in Australia were women. Despite spending much of my childhood in the Women's and Children's Hospital surgical ward, I'd never met a female surgeon.
As the first female urological surgeon in South Australia, I dreamed of providing much-needed specialised care to people with urinary incontinence, many suffering in silence. After establishing a specialised centre, Continence Matters, I dreamed of ending the stigma of incontinence by raising community awareness and improving education for health professionals. After building an online Continence Training Course, I dreamed of dismantling the gender stereotypes I had faced as a female surgeon and creating community awareness about other women's achievements in male-dominated areas.
Understanding self-belief was the precursor to success and learning career gender stereotypes formed in the early years, I dreamed of inspiring young girls through children's picture books. Now, I dream of inspiring the next generation to dream big, aim high and reach for the stars.
I've achieved more than I ever dared to dream. What if my dreams had been bigger?
So, my advice to young girls is: Take your dream, double it, and double it again.
#140years #alwaystrue #oldscholars #stayconnected #WildyStories
