Page 43 - 2021 - Altiora Vol 73 Sem 1 and 2

ALUMNI NEWS | 43
ALUMNI NEWS

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Liam Van Horen, 1997 - 2021
Liam V an Horen, 1997 - 2021
It was with immense sadness that the
BMGS community learned about the
passing of Liam Van Horen, in July this
year.
A young man with great character and
integrity, Liam attended BMGS from
Years 7 to 12 (2015), and from the
Basketball court (Captain of First V)
and Rugby field (First XV), to the drama
stage, and in his role of School Captain,
he was a leader in every respect. He
spoke loudly through his actions,
naturally and authentically modelling
kindness and generosity.
Liam’s impact on those around him
at School was far reaching; admired
by the younger students he coached,
loved by his peers, and highly
respected and admired by the staff.
With such a caring, generous and compassionate nature it was not surprising that he headed off to the Sunshine
Coast to pursue a degree in Paramedicine.

As with BMGS, the University of the Sunshine Coast community quickly recognised how special Liam was and in
a very short time, he had developed a rich life, warmed by the glow of new friends, His loss was painfully felt on
the coast, as it was in the mountains.
Liam’s life was celebrated by more than 400 members of the School and Blue Mountains community in a special
memorial service held in the D J Mulford Sports Centre at the School on 11 December.
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Annika Collins, 1993 - 2021
Annika Collins, 1993 - 2021
In August, we heard further sad news of the passing of Annika Collins,
who attended BMGS from 2005 to 2010.
Annika was creative and an entertainer, who took part in every drama
production from year 7 to year 12, and won the Dr Marshall prize
for her adaptation of Matisse’s The Great Dessert: Harmony in Red,
drawing herself into the picture in her BMGS uniform. Annika played
netball and basketball while at school, taking up every opportunity
to make the team laugh whilst maintaining her competitiveness. Her
favourite subject was Design and Technology with Mr Foot where
she produced many treasured pieces including a clock, an amazing
wooden stool, and a beautiful silver ring which is still worn, with much
pride, by her Mum. Annika also loved Japanese, and she cherished the
memories from her travels to Japan with BMGS.
After school, there was no stopping Annika. Her sense of adventure
and curiosity for the world led to great travels and countless new
friendships. Annika channelled her creativity into music and poetry,
adored the ocean, was fiercely loyal and strong, with an infectious
laugh and beautiful smile.
Annika will be forever loved and missed by the people’s lives she touched, and especially by her Mum, Louise, and
brother Vincent (2014).
Vincent (2014)
Annika’s family have installed a plaque that overlooks the ocean baths at Clovelly Beach. We encourage you to
visit and take a moment to remember Annika for the courageous and beautiful young woman she was.