海角大神

Small 鈥渋鈥� leading

At each of the recent excellence assemblies, a staff member spoke about the top ten students in each year level. The common trend in these testimonies was not just about hard work, talent and curiosity, but about kindness and their generosity in using their gifts to assist others. These attributes exemplify the 海角大神 value of COMPASSION: 鈥榮ervice to others through education and experiences that are based on kindness and generosity鈥�.

The centrality of service as a key component of leadership - particularly in our Christian tradition - will form part of the Year 11 assembly on Monday 2 September where the nomination process for student leadership positions for the College in 2025 will be launched. Our 2024 leaders have provided a wonderful example through their involvement in debating, sports, music, hospitality, VM fundraising, leading College tours and so much more. Each has humbly led, embracing their service to the community, a trait Sr Barbara Reid refers to as 鈥渟mall 鈥榠鈥� leadership鈥�.

Before Pope Francis鈥� first Easter in the role, he provided a very practical example of humility in leading by re-creating the Holy Thursday scene in which Jesus washed the feet of his disciples (John 13:1-17). By washing and kissing the feet of 12 youth detention prisoners - including two women and two Muslims - Pope Francis continues Jesus鈥� model of servant leadership. He has repeated this gesture each year of his pontificate, this year (at age 87) doing so for 12 women prisoners from his wheelchair. We take this inspiration as leaders to know our role is in serving and elevating others: we are but the small 鈥榠鈥� in developing leadership that exemplifies compassion for all.

Capital works update: Masterplan & Stage 1

Throughout Term 2, the College consulted staff, students and parents as part of the process of compiling and creating our Master Plan in conjunction with Kosloff Architecture. The plan has now been endorsed by MACS, so we are please to be able to begin the launch with this overview image:

 
We are excited about the plans this provides for the next 15+ years for our campus, rejuvenating the landscape, providing new facilities for students and the wider community, improving safety for pedestrian flow, providing a new Wominjeka welcoming garden as the entry point for the College, dedicated Performing Arts building, new gym and a new technology precinct. More details about the Master Plan will be released via the College website and social media over the coming months.

Planning for Stage 1 will begin next week. This will include a new Year 9 Building, a Wellness Centre for all students and revitalised garden, recreation and outdoor learning spaces for the Middle Years precinct.

Community - upcoming College events
We have a packed week coming up shortly featuring four significant community events

• Family Mass - Tuesday 10 September: All members of our community are invited to join this liturgical celebration in our Chapel at 7.30pm, with supper provided afterwards.
  
• Senior Music Showcase - Monday 9 September: Another great evening of showcasing the wonderful talents and dedication of our music students. All community members are welcome to attend for a 7.30pm start in the Gym.
• Term 3 College Mass - Monday 9 September: Our student & staff community gathers only once per term to celebrate our Catholic identity in the liturgy. We look forward to celebrating with Fr Dispin John.
• Term 3 College Assembly - Tuesday 10 September: the focus of this assembly will be celebrating excellence across the College in its many forms.

David Broadbent

Principal

On Fairness

In the last edition of the Lighthouse, I shared with you some insights of the reasons why our College embraces the SFK motto. I discussed the relevance of the term Kindness as an action that embraces our Gospel values and commitment to making the world a better place.

Today, I will focus on the term to be Fair, which underpins the view that empathy enables fairness to be a crucial quality for young people to embrace and develop. Fairness helps young people navigate social interactions with integrity, ensuring that they treat others equitably and with respect. Empathy allows them to understand and connect with others on a deeper level, fostering trust and meaningful relationships.

海角大神 values fairness as it ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and succeed, which helps combat any form of discrimination and prejudice. Empathy helps our students to appreciate the gift of diversity, highlighting positive perspectives and experiences, which lead multifaceted inclusion to enhance our supportive community. It is not uncommon that when young people learn to be fair and empathetic, they are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviours like helping others, sharing, and working collaboratively. This creates a positive environment where people feel valued and better understood.

Empathy contributes to emotional wellbeing by enabling young people to recognise and validate their own feelings and those of others. This can lead to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Daniel Goleman, a prominent psychologist and author known for his work on emotional intelligence, outlines three distinct types of empathy in his book "Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships." The three types of empathy can help explain how we understand and relate to the emotions of others.

The first category is the ability to understand another person鈥檚 thoughts, feelings, and perspectives from a cognitive or intellectual standpoint. It involves recognising and grasping what someone else might be experiencing emotionally or mentally without necessarily sharing in those emotions. The category refers to cognitive empathy and it is considered crucial for effective communication and problem-solving, as it helps us anticipate and understand others' reactions and viewpoints.

The second is emotional empathy. Also known as affective empathy, and this type involves directly sharing in another person鈥檚 emotions. When we experience emotional empathy, we tend to identify and recognise what someone is feeling, also feeling those emotions ourselves. This deepens emotional connections and allows for genuine compassion and support, as we are emotionally attuned to others鈥� experiences. The term, 鈥渨alking in someone else鈥檚 shoes鈥� is a good way to describe this empathic perspective.

Finally, compassionate empathy allows us to go beyond the understanding and sharing of emotions; it enables us to take action and help alleviate another person鈥檚 suffering. Compassionate empathy combines cognitive and emotional empathy with a drive to respond to others鈥� needs and difficulties. It involves not just feeling and understanding another鈥檚 situation but also being motivated to assist or offer support.

These distinctions highlight an important point, that empathy is not a single, uniform ability, but a multifaceted skill that involves understanding, feeling, and acting in response to others' emotions. Developing all three types of empathy can lead to more meaningful interactions and contribute to building stronger, more supportive relationships with others.

As students develop, understanding different viewpoints and ensuring equitable solutions helps resolve disputes amicably and constructively, reducing hostility and fostering cooperation. Fairness and empathy are valuable at our College as it prepares our students for workplaces and other social settings. They help young people work effectively in teams, communicate well, and lead with compassion, which are all essential for success in various fields.

Please discuss with your child the importance of Fairness in our actions. Being fair is a direct outcome of empathy and as the young people develop, this empathy has the potential of not only learning about the challenges that others may face but allows us to actively contribute to making things better. It is not just about walking in someone鈥檚 else鈥檚 shoes but rather changing the context so that we go beyond understanding into action.

Nap Rodezno

Deputy Principal

Spiritually Speaking - Season of Creation

Tania Grace

Assistant Principal Mission

Senior Years Report

Years 10 and 11 Excellence Assemblies last week were a fantastic celebration of student effort and achievement for Semester 1. These assemblies were not just a recognition of individual students, but an illustration of the collective dedication and hard work of our school community. Awards were presented to those who excelled in subjects, demonstrating outstanding commitment and perseverance and in recognition of students' sustained effort and improvement across the semester. The assemblies serve as an inspiration, motivating all students to strive for excellence in the coming semester. Thank you to the student presentations and performances; their peers' warm reception and acknowledgement demonstrated great appreciation for their talents and entertainment.

Teachers and mentors of the top 10 students within each year level celebrated their achievements by sharing with the audience the notable accomplishments and qualities of the recipients. What was striking in the twenty speeches across the two-year levels was that the recipients of the highest awards demonstrated not only the value of hard work and academic excellence but also common in all the students were qualities that do not require talent in a subject but do make a significant difference in achievement and the classroom environment such as community spirit, their willingness to invite others into discussions, their kindness towards their peers and genuine love of learning.

Congratulations to all students for their efforts and dedication in Semester 1! Your hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly proud of your achievements. Families across years 7 -11 can all view electronic certificates for the effort and improvement awards and awards for the highest achiever in each class. Semester one electronic certificates are on PAM using the same link as assessment reports.

The upcoming Year 11 assembly will open the 2025 College student leadership application process. Student leadership is a critical element of college life and success. Student leadership actively encourages student voice and student participation in matters affecting their school experience. With a foundation in being servant leaders, many positions act to enrich student engagement and culture in the school, local and global community. In 2024, the College initiated the positions of Faith Captain, Social Justice and Sustainability. This year, Year 11 students will be able to apply for a further two new positions: House Captains and Performing Arts.

To be eligible for consideration, Yr 11 students must fill out an application form and attend an interview. The interview panel consists of 2 staff members and one incumbent College Student Leader. Application forms will be shared via email as a Google Form and will open on Monday, September 2.

Positions are open to all Year 11 students and include College Ambassadors, College Board Representatives, College Captains, Vice Captains, Faith Captain, House Captain, Sports Captain, Performing Arts, Social Justice, Sustainability and VCE VM Captain. Students will receive position descriptors and a full explanation of the application process. Best wishes to all students who courageously apply for a position. 

Rachel Crawley 

Head Senior Years

Middle Years Report

Book in a day

On Friday 23rd August, three groups of Year 7-9 students participated in the annual 鈥榃rite a Book in a Day鈥� challenge. From 7am to 6pm, students worked in teams to write and illustrate an entire picture book which is shared with young cancer patients in hospitals across Australia. All students worked diligently and were able to share their love of writing and artistic abilities while learning about teamwork, delegating and perseverance. Well done to everyone involved.

鈥淲riting a book in a day was so fun! I loved helping with the planning of the story and drawing the images. Working with my group all day was great, and it required a lot of teamwork. After we had done the books we got pizza and drinks. I made some new friends doing it, and will definitely do it again鈥� Charlotte Huecherig (Year 8).

Year 7 2025

This week, our 2025 Year seven students participated in their PAT testing to help us understand their current academic levels and tailor our support accordingly. We鈥檙e excited to support each student's educational journey and ensure a smooth transition into their new school environment.

Girl Power

Charlie Lowe (9 Orange) was awarded a place in the 2024 Girl Power STEM camp at Melbourne University. Charlie was asked to write an article on the program. A copy of the article can be found in the 'Life at 海角大神' section below, which is well worth a read. Well done, Charlie! 

Sam Storey

Acting Head Middle Years

Term 3 is a busy time for our Music Department, in which our ensembles have lots of wonderful opportunities for performances and engaging activities!

Music Camp
Firstly, in week one of term 3, we had Music Camp, which is an intense rehearsal period designed to kick-start preparations for the events of the Term. All students from the department are bussed down to Phillip Island for a collaborative rehearsal period, including a combined item!:
We also prepared for the following events-

Victorian Schools Music Festival
Our Senior Choir (Illuminate), Junior Concert Band and Senior Concert Band have recently participated in The Victorian Schools Music Festival (). This event consists of performing on stage at the Salvation Army in Box Hill and Hawthorn Arts Centre in front of two adjudicators and other Victorian schools. After their performance, students are given immediate feedback with an on-stage workshop with the main adjudicator. They also have the opportunity to watch two other schools perform and be workshopped. Schools receive a recording of the performance with audio commentary afterwards, which provides direction for continuing rehearsals.
This event is a fantastic learning experience for our students, from performing as an ensemble in a formal environment, to participating in workshops with world-renowned conductors, to seeing other ensembles perform the same works differently. We are proud of our students' performances and effort throughout the event. Below you can see a couple of photos from Senior Concert Band's participation from Tuesday night.

High School Musical: On Stage!
Congratulations to the entire cast of High School Musical, On stage! for an amazing show. And a special shout-out to the band, which was consisted of a variety of students and staff, providing the score for the show from the theatre balconies. See a couple of photos above!

Coming Up

Senior Music Showcase
We are excited about our Senior Music Showcase on Monday 9 September, where we will present performances from our senior ensembles for parents, friends and staff, as well as our massed combined item including students from across the entire music program. Tickets are free, but we request that you reserve tickets via .

Royal South Street Eisteddfod
is Australia's premier Eisteddfod, which has been held in Ballarat since 1891. The competition currently runs throughout June to October each year. The Eisteddfod includes 11 theatrical disciplines of voice, music, and movements, providing some 40,000+ on-stage performance opportunities for artists from all over Australia. We are sending our choirs to complete on Friday 6 September, followed by our Stage Bands on Thursday 12 September.

Finally, chookas to Emma Oakley for her AMEB Grade 4 flute examination today!

Alison Bellew & Emily McKenzie

Music Programs Coordinators

On Monday afternoon we held our third Summit, which is a meeting for all the student leaders in the school. It is always a delight to bring together the leaders from across all year levels and areas to collaborate with one another, building ideas and strengthening our community. As College Captains, our primary goal this year was to build unification within the group of captains. We first had to reflect on what it means to be a leader, and with applications for 2025 leadership positions just around the corner, we thought to share some of our thoughts.

For students, one primary aspect of leadership is servitude. Although that may not be what you would expect, it is true! In the past when we were captains of our respective year levels, we have been involved in the team of students who seek opportunities to create fun activities for our peers. Our Captains representing the music or sport departments of the school facilitate activities and run events for students. The Faith, Social Justice and Sustainability Captains work towards creating a spirit of generosity and stewardship within 海角大神 students that impacts the world around us. Currently, as College Captains, we support students from Years 7 to 12, helping to guide younger leaders while we continue to bring opportunities for our own year level to create fond memories of high school. There are many more positions than the ones mentioned, and we all work towards growing our college into a brighter place.

If you would like to be involved in leadership in the future, a great way to start is by becoming involved in activities offered in the school. There are countless clubs to join, projects requiring extra people, and small sparks of ideas just waiting to be set alight in our community. Reach out to current leaders and see if you can be involved in any of their plans. Look for opportunities to develop skills such as public speaking and organisation - it doesn鈥檛 always come naturally, but you are guaranteed to improve the more you try!

Isobel Mugamu & Connor Haughie

College Captains

The Fair is Only a Week Away!

Our annual Fairtrade Fair is taking place from September 9th to 13th, which coincides with , running from September 9th to 22nd. This important event raises awareness about the positive impact of Fairtrade and encourages people to make ethical choices in their daily lives.

As part of the lead-up to the Fairtrade Fair, students will be learning about Fairtrade, including fair working conditions, living wages, and ethical consumerism, in their RE classes. In addition to supporting businesses that sell Fairtrade products, our fair will raise funds for . During the fair week, a display will also be set up in the Chapel, where students and staff can explore information, watch short videos, and engage in interactive activities to learn more about the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.

Over the last few weeks, groups of students have been working hard to prepare for the fair. A big thank you to those in the Social Justice Club, PACE program, Fashion classes, Social Arts classes, and Food Tech classes who have created (or are still in the process of creating) items for use during the fair, either for decorations or for sale. This project could not be done without your contributions.

We are also still accepting donations of books and clothes for our second-hand stall. If you have items to clear out, please drop them off at the Catholic Life Office anytime this week.

What to expect at the fair:

Second-Hand Clothes & Books: A great opportunity to refresh your wardrobe and bookshelf while supporting a good cause.

Bake Sale: Treat yourself to some homemade goodies鈥攂aked with love and for a great cause!

Handmade Arts & Crafts: Check out the unique, handcrafted items made by our very own talented students. These one-of-a-kind pieces make perfect gifts and souvenirs.

Games of Luck and Chance: Test your luck at our fun-filled game stalls.

Sausage Sizzle: Enjoy a classic BBQ with a tasty sausage sizzle.

Please follow to a slideshow that I have  put together to learn more about the concept of Fair Trade.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our social justice initiatives. We look forward to a wonderful and fun-filled week!

Martha Mugamu

Social Justice & Outreach Coordinator

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools 鈥� School Improvement Surveys (MACSSIS): Monday 2 September 鈥� Friday 20 September 2024. Throughout each year, we pause to listen to our students, families and staff to gauge how our learning community is travelling. This feedback is invaluable to our progress as effective school communities and is backed by evidence-based research and best practices.

A significant and formal way in which we engage and gather data is through MACSSIS, the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools 鈥� School Improvement Surveys.

Please read from the principal's office explaining the process.

Last week, three teams of Year 7-9 Students participated in the 'Write a Book in a Day' Challenge. Not only did the students rise to the Challenge and produce a book written and illustrated in one day - but they also raised money for .  Dani Wilson, their AGILE learning enhancement coordinator said "The books will also go in a data base for children in hospitals with cancer, so definitely a worthy cause!"

Please find the links below for each team so you can read their incredible books.

- Written and Illustrated by Awesome Oyster Sauce

- Written and Illustrated by The Rainbow Lorikeets

- Written and illustrated by the Sparkling Dolphins

Sandi van der Niet
Arts Learning Area Leader

On Saturday the 24 of August the 海角大神 Aardvarks set out to Copperfield College to compete in the first Vex v5 competition of the season. After a long one hour bus ride we were there. After we got set up in our pits we had to get our robot inspected to make sure it was legal, then matches could begin. In my team's first game we won 16-3, in our 2nd match we lost 3-7, in our 3rd game we lost 9-32, in our 4th game we tied 6 all, in our 5 game we lost 0-22 and in our last game we lost 6鈥�32. Unfortunately our robot was plagued with malfunctions from both the hardware and software side of things. We ended up 25 over all with 1 win, 4 loses and 1 tie. As the first competition for my team. (52050f ) All in all I think that the Copperfield VEX tournament was a lot of fun. 

Giacomo Fiorenza - Year 8

The day was a great learning experience for students as well as a good opportunity for skill development, coordination and for working in a team. Throughout the day each team had to work together to create a solution for a problem they faced whether it was a part that was forgotten or a broken robot.
I particularly noticed a huge boost in confidence in our competing junior teams at the competition interacting with teams and students from other schools to work together to achieve their goals throughout each match bringing them closer together as a team and giving them a better understanding of how to organise and work within their own team as they developed the skills to strategies with other teams they have never spoken to before in their designated alliance each match.

Overall it was a great day for each of our teams throughout our development and education in robotics even though we may not have won the competition one of our teams walked away with the Design award. Most importantly our teams were able to learn and adapt in situations they may not have foreseen to happen while our newest teams were able to work together to achieve their goals and to develop new skills in robotics. Cameron Cahill - Year 10

BOYS VOLLEYBALL A
海角大神 3 defeated Billanook 0

A great grand final win by the team. All players played consistently throughout the final. Whenever we were challenged, the team lifted and won each setting well. Our skills in both attack and defence were excellent. Well done on an awesome season, in which we did not drop a set throughout the season. Congratulations on going back to back.

BOYS NETBALL A
海角大神 28 defeated Emmaus 23  

Wow what a season and what a final!! We managed to beat the team that was undefeated all season. Congratulations on the win as well as the amazing improvement throughout the season. Special mention to Isaac and Byron, our 2 year 12 team members for their efforts throughout the EISM program. I鈥檓 already looking forward to next year!!

SENIOR BOYS SOCCER 

海角大神 3 defeated Donvale 1

What a season, what a final game and what a team! We finished second on the ladder to Donvale, only losing once to them by 1 goal (our only loss for the season). We had a few key players out that day so we knew we had a good chance in the final. In tough, windy conditions, the whole team stepped up and played their roles brilliantly. After playing as a striker for most of the season, Nick Di Crea offered his services as goalie for the match, thinking this is where he could have the most impact鈥�and boy did he have an impact! He was voted the best player in the final after a number of crucial saves. Another player who seized the moment was Ronan Meikle, scoring twice from two set pieces, sending the crowd into a roaring celebration each time. Talk about ice in his veins. The third goal was scored by Marco Caminiti who has been our highest goal scorer all season. More importantly than the win, this team of young men are an amazing group of people. It has been an extremely enjoyable and memorable season all due to the characters and personalities that make up this great team. I hope they are proud of themselves because as a coach, I couldn鈥檛 be more proud. Our year 12s (Michael, Jamie, Matty V, Nedz, Butters, Daniel, Michain and Nick) are going to be missed and we thank them dearly, but the future is strong with the year 11s and 10s. Congratulations guys!

SENIOR BOYS TABLE TENNIS 
海角大神 1 lost to  Donvale 11 

Despite a valiant performance our Senior Table Tennis fairytale season has resulted in 海角大神 receiving the runners up trophy after a loss to heavy favourites Donvale. Despite the loss, spirits were high and the camaraderie and supportiveness that had taken us to the Grand Final were clearly on show. A big congratulations to Ryan Boland who received the best player award from the Donvale team. Finally, a big thank you to all the students who made this season so special.

SENIOR GIRLS NETBALL A

海角大神 20 lost to Billanook 34

After going through the season undefeated we entered the Grand Final with confidence. Our first quarter was solid with the team getting an early break of 2 goals, but the game was level at 录 time. The second half remained tight with only one gain the difference. However Billanooks consistency and fresh legs started to gain the upper hand in the second half. The team worked with different positional swaps and kept working hard but it just wasn't our day. Congratulations to Gabby Linton on a well deserved MVP. And congratulations to all players for their commitment to EISM throughout the season and representing the College so impressively. A shout out to Jess Todoro and Stella Smirk for playing their last EISM game. They have both played every season of EISM since Year 10 and the sports department would love to acknowledge this amazing effort and commitment. Thanks girls.

SENIOR GIRLS NETBALL B
海角大神 29 lost to Emmaus 37

We tried hard throughout the game but it just was not our day. Grand finals are so unpredictable and this was the case. We were always chasing them and as a result our skills were just a little off making it hard. Well done to all our players on a great year, losing only once. Good luck next year when we aim to regain the trophy.

SENIOR GIRLS ULTIMATE FRISBEE

海角大神 4 lost to Mt Lilydale 6
An afternoon of incredibly windy weather made for very tough frisbee conditions! The rules even had to be adapted because of the force of the wind. But 海角大神 were certainly up for the challenge and went into the game with super positive attitudes. It was such a great game - 海角大神 put up a fantastic fight for all four quarters against a talented side. Our young group gave it everything they had and kept the score within one or two points the entire game. They made the opposition dig deep and pushed them right until the end. Unfortunately we couldn't quite get the lead but we walked away from the ground very proud and knew we gave it our all. We were also down a player with Maeve recently injuring her foot. The team will be back next year and will be stronger and better than ever, ready to give it another crack! Congratulations to the whole team who put in so much effort, week in week out, to represent the school - you have done us proud. A huge well done and thank you to Gabby Hooper, Maeve Wilkinson, Lily Seadon, Emma Fabre, Lucy Postill, Amy Powell, Savannah Jobling, Aleisha Harmer and Dakota Gray for an amazing season and also a big thank you to our fill in players Torah Hughes and Caitlin Miller.

SENIOR GIRLS VOLLEYBALL B
海角大神 1 lost to Donvale 3

A really tight final. After winning the first set well, the game became really close with the lead in each set changing regularly. The next 3 sets which Donvale won were very close. Across the 4 sets there were only 4 points difference (Donvale 97-海角大神 93) Well done to all our players on a superb season. Thank you to all the players for your commitment each week.

SENIOR GIRLS TABLE TENNIS
海角大神 0 lost to Mt Scopus 12

In a dominating display of teamwork and precision, Donvale was unmatched and took home a well deserved victory. Kiah Singh was the standout performer of the final, winning two of her games, being seated at No. 1, this showcased her remarkable skill and consistency in shots. Awesome effort to reach the grand final, the team showed great commitment throughout the season. Well done everyone!  

Engineering and IT Camp at the University of Melbourne

By Charlie Lowe- Year 9 Orange

Discovering Engineering and IT at the University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers a vibrant engineering and IT program that stands out for its commitment to innovation and real-world applications. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills needed to tackle complex challenges in today鈥檚 fast-paced world. From civil engineering to computer science, the program offers a wide array of specialisations, allowing students to tailor their education to their passions.

During the camp, we were introduced to the university's state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and collaborative workspaces that foster creativity and teamwork. The faculty at the university is composed of leading experts in their fields, who are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of engineers and IT professionals.

Hands-On Experience and Activities

One of the most exciting aspects of the camp was the hands-on experience we gained through various activities. We had the chance to play with state-of-the-art drones, learning how to operate them and programming them for specific tasks. This practical experience not only enhanced our technical skills but also sparked our creativity as we designed projects around drone technology.

We had an afternoon looking at V8 supercar engineering speaking to some of their drivers and teams, and participated in coding workshops, where we got to experience how to make our own websites and games and explore how to use our coding abilities and creativity to tackle problems from software development to robotics.

We also designed building projects, collaborating in teams to create innovative solutions to community sustainability issues. Our team designed cheap and hardy portable solar powered cases that accessed roadside water stations along bush roads in outback Australia, and that could be used to provide water to rural areas of third world countries. This experience taught us the importance of teamwork, communication, and problem-solving鈥攕kills that are essential in any engineering or IT career.

Life at the University of Melbourne 

Living in the university dorms and experiencing university life as a student during the camp was one of the highlights for the group and gave us a taste of university life. I met students from various backgrounds and interests who were interested in many of the varied courses offered by Melbourne University. We had late-night study sessions and movie nights in our dorms and made new friends who will continue this program with me through year 10 and 11.

The supportive environment fostered by the university made it easy to connect with others and share ideas. Whether we were discussing our future career aspirations or simply enjoying downtime together, the sense of community was felt by all.

Career Opportunities and Conclusion

The Engineering and IT program at the University of Melbourne not only prepares students academically but also opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities and encourages students to work together to be world leaders in their chosen field.

I wholeheartedly encourage any 海角大神 year 9 students interested in STEM to consider applying to the Girl Power Camps in the future, and to the University of Melbourne for their engineering and IT programs. The combination of a world-class education, hands-on experiences, and a supportive community makes it an ideal place to find a home after 海角大神. Attending the camp was an awesome experience, and I鈥檓 excited to see what the future holds for me and my fellow campers during this program. Don鈥檛 miss out on the chance to explore your passion for engineering and IT, and I thank the University of Melbourne STEM facilities for allowing me this opportunity.

Year 7 Student Ariana Yuzon and her brother Aaragon in Year 11 have had a successful year competing in the sport of Brazilian Ju Jitsu. They are part of their Academy鈥檚 (Fortitude Jiu Jitsu) competition team who participates in competition Australia wide. 

Aragon competed in May for the VIC State Championships where he won Double Gold for his Division. He competed in both Gi (with kimono) and No-Gi (without kimono) and won both events. This month they competed at the Australian National Championships where Ariana won Gold in her division while Aragon achieved a Bronze placing.

Here is a lovely reflection from Ariana on receiving the Gold medal.

On the 18th of August, 2024; I competed in Junior Female Gi for Australian BJJ Nationals, (AJJC) representing my team Fortitude Jiujitsu. The championship itself occurs once a year, typically recurring throughout the months August-September. This year, hundreds of both children and adults alike congregated altogether to partake in the prestigious competition, each individual of contrasting skill levels, and each of contrasting regions.

I had undergone strenuous training to win nationals back-to-back, as I had previously done so the year before. With the extraordinary efforts and teachings from both my Coach; Michael Magno, and my mother and father, I had succeeded in finding confidence in my training, and applying my strengths into the match. However, we faced many difficulties before the main event. The particular weight-division in which I had competed in throughout my whole 4-year BJJ career, was repudiated in the 2024 nationals. Originally, I had strived to drop weight to compete in a lower-weight division, however that goal was eventually proven unattainable. I was registered for the next division up, my opponent being a whole 3kgs heavier than I, as well as a single grade higher; yet I prevailed.

I couldn't have ever squandered my fathers feats, constantly completing a journey of 2-hour drives through windy roads all to see my older brother and I's training to fruition. I truly knew I had to win; for both my parents and peers. All throughout the emotionally-engaging trip of Nationals, I had indulged in feelings of timidity, joy, and exuberance.

My most cheerful moment of the whole experience would undoubtedly be my moment of victory. I was down on points, and in an inferior position, yet I regained possession of my hooks and submitted her with a triangle (BJJ move). A swarm of emotions had swirled enchantingly, entangling with my limbs, and through my body as they raised my arm signalling victory. Now, looking forward to both the near and far future, I strive to learn from my experiences and continue to amp and improve my Jiu Jitsu game, additionally, I strive to find more opportunities to fortify my parents' pride in me. " Ariana Yuzon

We are so proud of Year 7 student Mila, and her horse Delish who represented 海角大神 at Boneo Park, Horseland Interschool Combined Training and Dressage day.

Mila was so thrilled to be representing 海角大神 and wearing her uniform.

This event marked Mila's debut competing at the EA (Equestrian Australia) Preliminary Intermediate Dressage Test level.

She placed 3rd for her first test and 4th for her second test.

EA 1.2 Intermediate
EA 1.3 Intermediate

Congratulations Mila!

Are you interested in hosting a French chef in your home? Are you interested in talking about the differences between France and Australia? If your answer is yes to either of these questions then hosting a French student will be a wonderful opportunity for your family.

It is with great pleasure and motivation that our group of students and teachers came to spend these 15 days in your school (in 2023).

We cannot thank all the host families enough, the entire 海角大神 College staff and students for their incredible investment and support for all of us. The times we spent with all of you will no doubt remain forever memories for our young students. We took great pleasure in sharing our culinary art and service with you.

Your country is for many of us a dream that you have made possible thanks to your incredible generosity and your indescribable kindness.

The challenge is very high for us: to welcome you to France as you have welcomed us.

Thank you so much

The Frenchies

Owen Stott 

Director, Wurundjeri Trade Training Centre

Winnie鈥檚 wonderful week
In just her first week at 海角大神 College, Winnie has already made a wonderful impact on both students and staff. Winnie鈥檚 presence around campus, whether during casual encounters or in counseling sessions, brings smiles and a sense of positivity to everyone she meets. Many students have shared that seeing Winnie around the school has made them feel positive about their day and more enthusiastic about attending their classes. Her calm and soothing nature has also been incredibly effective in helping to ease students' stress and anxieties, making her a cherished addition to our YFC team and the broader school community. I鈥檇 like to thank everyone for the warm welcome they've given Winnie and for being so respectful and gentle with her, it's truly appreciated!

Kate Young

Counsellor YFC

The theme of Book Week for 2024 was 鈥楻eading is Magic鈥� and the ARC was visited by Melbourne Magician Nicholas Johnson, who baffled students at recess and lunchtime with a variety of amazing tricks and illusions. He culminated with the Human Blockhead act 鈥� not for the faint of heart. 

The annual Book Week ARC Quiz returned, with questions about Magic that ranged from simple to strenuous. A fun week, and a great way to promote the enjoyment of reading at 海角大神

Anne Stebbing
ARC Librarian

Please save the date Family "Fathers' Day" Mass September 10

海角大神 College warmly invites students and their families to celebrate mass together, with an emphasis on giving thanks to our Dads or those that are Father figures in our lives.

The Mass is student-led and will be celebrated by our Year 10 EDGE class & Year 11 Religion Music. 

Mark it in your calendars! We encourage you to come along to support these students and to enjoy some time for quiet reflection.

An RSVP form will be sent out closer to the date.