Semester 1 kicked off with the annual Queer* Night In, a forum where all ressies are invited to discuss queer issues, share stories, and learn from each other in a safe and welcoming space. We then moved to Mardi Gras Paint n Sip, a night of groovy tunes and Pride-themed painting where we crafted an incredible new Pride banner for the Dining Hall (pictured).
There we were, in the shimmering light of a freezing Canberra sunrise, knee-deep in Kambah Pool, holding onto the camera for dear life. Jack, lead actor for this year’s 40 Hours of Film competition, walked, fully clothed, into the lake, with only one chance to make this take work….
In May, we were delighted and honoured to host members of the Tiwi Strong Women’s Group.
The singing group from Bathurst Island were in Canberra for the Canberra International Music Festival and to work with Associate Professor Kim Cunio, Head of the ANU School of Music, who this year joined Burgmann as a Residential Fellow.
For this year’s ANZAC Day, a group of 11 undergraduate and postgraduate residents ran a moving commemorative service for residents, staff and alumni, featuring poems, personal reflections, and letters sent home from the battlefield during World War I, as well as a bagpipe performance by current resident Joseph Negrine.
In April, we were delighted to host former Principal Bob Northey (1989-1995) for afternoon tea. Bob was Burgmann’s sixth principal in 10 years, and only the second after founding Master David Griffin to have fulfilled the role for at least five years.
Avid historian and foundation resident Judy Middlebrook (1971-1980) shared homemade scones and archival riches with Principal Sally Renouf and then Acting Principal Amelia Zaraftis in March.
A gift of alumnus Casey White (2010-2013) and his family, the Bruadarach Medal is awarded to a Burgmann resident who has shown exceptional entrepreneurial spirit in providing an educationally beneficial experience outside of the normal student experience of the Burgmann Residents’ Association.