To celebrate our centenary, Carey commissioned a history to be written reflecting on our first 100 years. After three years of dedicated planning, researching, writing and refining, we were so excited to launch the book, Torchbearers: A centenary history of Carey Baptist Grammar School, on our 100th birthday, 13 February 2023.
Along with reflections from the Chair of the Centenary Book Committee and an address from the book’s author, Helen Penrose of HistorySmiths, we also heard from Liz Rushen, esteemed historian, researcher, author and past Carey parent, who officially launched the book.
The 458-page, 100,000-word book features over 500 images and required countless hours of research by Helen, as well as a phenomenal amount of work by the Carey Heritage Committee over the past 25 years, who initially formed in preparation for Carey’s big milestone and to begin planning this book. Torchbearers is the culmination of a great deal of effort by many, many dedicated people in the Carey community, and it is certainly something we can all be proud of.
Our Junior School students were also treated to a fun explanation of how to construct a book by Helen Penrose. Using stacks of shoeboxes and books to show quantities of research, the students gained an understanding of how much work went into creating Torchbearers. The session also helped them understand just how long 100 years really is.
Junior School students learn about how to make a history book
Centenary Merchandise
If you haven’t already, you can still order your copy of Torchbearers: A centenary history of Carey Baptist Grammar School online and collect it from Carey’s Kew campus.
Get your book and merch hereWe also have a range of fun Carey centenary merchandise available to help you get into the spirit of our 2023 celebrations. So far, bestsellers have been the centenary cap, the stained-glass window puzzle and, of course, the adorable Carey centenary bear! These and many other items are listed on our website.
All of our centenary merch is limited edition, so make sure you get yours before they sell out!
Please note, we don’t offer shipping on these items. Your orders can be collected from Main Reception at our Kew campus, or Reception at our Donvale campus upon request. You’ll receive an email letting you know when your order is ready – it can take up to seven school days.
Kelly Southworth
Content Developer, Community Engagement
