When excellence meets diversity

Study Awards recognise the highest achieving students in each VCE subject. Study Award recipients from Melbourne Grammar School were:

• Hugh Dunlop - Environmental Science
• Max Fisher - Philosophy
• Austin Haynes – English, Classical Studies
• Marcus Jones - Environmental Science
• Lachlan King - Philosophy
• Matthew Olney-Fraser - Art
• Thomas Sutherland - Latin
• Antony Tragas - Business Management

Of special note, Thomas Sutherland is also one of only 21 Victorian students presented with a prestigious Top All-Round VCE High Achiever Award. This award recognises students who have achieved study scores of 46 or higher in at least five VCE studies. “I felt honoured to receive this award and am truly grateful for all the support that my teachers have provided,” says Thomas.

Thomas, who was Proxime Accessit at the School last year, was also a Vice-Captain of Creese House, Captain of Debating (and part of the championship A Grade Division team), and a member of the Symphony Orchestra.

“I am always pleased when Melbourne Grammar students perform well in their VCE studies,” says Mr Roy Kelley, Headmaster. “It is a reflection of their talent and hard work, combined with the skill and commitment of their teachers.”

“In 2018, the School achieved high levels of success in a diverse array of subjects and, in my view, achievement in many disciplines is a distinguishing characteristic of this School,” says Mr Kelley. “We try to ensure that each student has the opportunity to be the very best they can be, wherever their interest may lie.”

While Max Fisher recognises the support of his teacher, he also pays tribute to his classmates. “It was a great thrill to receive this award but studying Philosophy was truly a collaborative experience,” he says. “I owe a debt of gratitude to my teacher, Mr Glenn, and my Philosophy cohort, who spurred me on and made it a team-like experience.” Max Fisher was also a successful debater, involved in the Values in Action programme, and played in the Symphony Orchestra, in addition to being Vice-Captain of Deakin House and a member of the First VIII Tennis team.

For Antony Tragas, diversity and excellence also combined in his co-curricular activities. In addition to serving as Vice- Captain of Bruce House, Antony was a member of the First VIII Rowing crew and played in numerous musical bands and ensembles. “To solely focus on academia would be an unfortunate waste of individual talent and passion, as well as the opportunities that the School provides,” says Antony.