MacKillop College Newsletter

Tips for the New School Year

Sport Update

Welcome back to Sport at Mackillop College for 2023.

Please refer to the newsletter each week for the most up to date information regarding sport. Your child will receive information via the Student Notices regarding how to sign up for representative sports, training schedules and excursion information.

Families are reminded should your child not be able to participate in sport due to injury or illness a note is required. If the condition is ongoing, documentation from a doctor or physiotherapist is required.

Sport Trainee

Welcome to Susie Coster, our sport trainee for 2023. Susie has a love of all things soccer and volleyball and loves getting involved in a variety of sports.  Susie will be assisting staff and students in both school sport and representative sport during 2023 and will be a fantastic asset to our College.

Term 1 Sport

Please refer to the College website for the Sport Programs for Year 7-10 Term 1 2023 Sport.

Year 7 Sport Term 1

Year 7 students will participate in their sport double once a fortnight.  Students need to come to school in their sport uniform when their timetable indicates a double sport lesson. If your child cannot participate in sport, please provide a note to your child’s sport teacher providing a reason why your child cannot participate.

From Week 2 onwards, students will need to bring to school with them their swimmers, towel, rash shirt and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) to participate in the Swim & Survive course at either the Wauchope, Kendall or Port Macquarie pool.

Parents have received a permission note for students to participate in the course which should have been completed by today.

Year 8 Sport Term 1

Year 8 students will participate in a wide range of sports throughout the year. During Term 1 students will participate in various sports including basketball, netball and soccer.

Year 9 Sport Term 1

Your child will participate in the Surf Survival Certificate during sport for Term 1, 2023.  This is an extension from the Swim and Survive Certificate students completed in Year 7. Aquatics is a compulsory component of the PDHPE syllabus for all Year 9 Students. No students will be permitted to do Contract Sport in Terms 1 and 2.

This course will be run in conjunction with Surf Life Saving NSW and the Australian Lifeguard Service who will provide specialised instructors to assist our PDHPE/Sport staff. All appropriate water safety measures will be in place to ensure the safety of our students in an open water environment. This course caters for students of all swimming abilities and aims to improve the safety of individuals in an aquatic environment.

The Surf Survival Certificate is a national swimming and water safety program that aims to provide participants with the skills and knowledge of basic patrolling and surf awareness in order to be able to participate in lifesaving operations.

LEARNING OUTCOME MODULES

        Surf Awareness and Skills

• Describe surfing and environmental conditions and hazards
• Recognise appropriate beach types, conditions and areas in the surf zone for swimming
• Demonstrate surf skills (board rescue, tube rescue, run swim run)
  
  The Human Body

• Explain the functions of the systems of the body e.g. respiratory and circulatory systems
  
  Resuscitation

• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques (Chain of Survival)
  
  First Aid

• Identify basic patient management techniques (DRSABCD and emergency care)
  
  Rescue Techniques

• Perform patient approaches, support and escapes aided by equipment on a conscious and an unconscious patient
• Identify people in distress in an aquatic environment
• Perform surf skills
  
  Beach Management

• Set up a patrol and describe your role on patrol
• Demonstrate standard patrol practices
• Work as part of team

Students will travel by bus to either the pool or beach to complete the modules with their sport teacher.

Please ensure your child has a towel, hat, rash shirt or singlet, swimmers and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) for their swimming lessons. If your child has a wetsuit it is recommended that the students bring this each week. 

If your child has already completed the Surf Survival Certificate with a Surf Life Saving Club at a community level, please provide Mrs Denham with a copy of the certificate. These students will assist with water safety each week.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by Thursday, 2 February. Sport commences Tuesday, 7 February for Year 9.

Year 10 Sport Term 1

Year 10 students will participate in eight weeks of sport for Term 1, 2023 beginning Week 2 Tuesday, 7 February.  Parents and students are reminded that it is a legal requirement that the digital permission slip is completed before the student can participate in sport, even if choosing school sport.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by today, Friday, 3 February.  Both parents and students are reminded that there will be NO changes to any sports for any reason, so choose your sport carefully. Businesses rely on the student numbers we provide them and therefore we ask that you respect this commitment by not asking for your child to change sport during the Term.

MacKillop College Events and Registration

Representative

Touch Football Trials – Registration

Please click on the link below to access the 'How to Register' for students/parents wanting to attend the Diocesan Individual Touch Football Selection in Sawtell on Tuesday, 21 February 2023.

Please note that these nominations will close on Friday, 10 February 2023. 

If you are not prepared to travel to Wagga Wagga for CCC please do not nominate for Diocesan trials. 

Registrations

All registrations for MacKillop College sport teams will be completed by students via logging into the school Moodle page. Go to the Student Links tab on the left hand side and click on the Representative Sports Registrations link. Click on the relevant sport and fill out the google form.

Students will be notified through the morning notices of when to sign up, and when trials will occur.

Click on this link to register.

Term 1 2023

Lismore Diocesan Events and Registration

Please note that the following sports are currently open for students to be able to sign up to or register their interest to trial. These sports have been advertised to students through morning notices over the past week.

Please click on this link below to register for the sports.

NSWCCC Events and Registration

Students must be registered for the event with parent and Principal or Sport Coordinator approval.  

Registration is through the CSNSW Sport portal

For instructions on how to register go to:  Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations >>

NSWCCC Events

NSW All Schools Events

The selection for these events are a result of the NSWCCC events.

Community Sport

Basketball

Congratulations to Trelise Kirkby, Sam Blain, Grace Collins and Ben Romer who recently were involved with the Australian Junior Country Basketball Cup in Albury.

As a result of this development tour Sam and Trelise made the respective Under 18 Men’s and Women’s NSW Country teams. What a huge achievement and great reward for two athletes that put in an enormous amount of court time. We wish them both all the best when they compete at the National Basketball Championships in Brisbane later in the year.

If your child has achieved outstanding sporting results in their community sport, we would love to hear about it. Please email myself, or your child’s respective Leader of Pastoral Care, so we can acknowledge these achievements. 

If you have any questions regarding sport at Mackillop College, please do not hesitate to contact me either by email or phone at the College.

Erin Denham
Leader of Sport

Music News

“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”- Martin Luther

The role of the Co-curricular Music Program at MacKillop College is not only to provide musical enrichment to students but to provide a service to the parish and to the community. Ensembles participate in local festivals and events, provide music for Mass, attend workshops, perform at College assemblies and participate in band tours and competitions both nationally and internationally. Through these experiences we hope to nurture a sense of camaraderie, teamwork, community, cultural and spiritual service and a pure love of making and sharing music with others. 

The music staff are excited to offer an extensive ensemble program. There are many proven benefits of learning a musical instrument relating to brain development. Playing music within an ensemble setting builds upon such benefits and reinforces social interaction, teamwork, discipline and goal setting.  Furthermore, it is imperative that students understand the importance of their ensemble membership. Ensemble members are expected to regularly and punctually attend rehearsals, participate positively and respectfully, understand their role as part of a team and participate to the best of their ability in performances. In order to maintain the positive growth of the music ensemble program at MacKillop College, students are asked to adhere to the expectations provided below.

Sign Up!

Students interested in participating in the co-curricular music ensemble program in 2023 are to complete the google form linked below. ALL students from Years 7-12 need to complete the form regardless of previous involvement in the program.

https://forms.gle/Zta4UABJiZAhumcB9

Attendance

Ensemble members are expected to attend all rehearsals, performances, workshops and special events throughout the year. As a courtesy, students are required to inform their ensemble director of any planned absences prior to a rehearsal or event. Rolls are taken at all rehearsals, performances and workshops. Students with unexplained absences will be required to provide written explanations signed by a parent or carer to the leader of co-curricular music. It is important that students arrive to rehearsal five minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure that time is not lost to setting up instruments. Students are to move as quickly as possible to lunch rehearsals from class.

Understandably, there will be times when students are late to rehearsals or performances for a wide range of valid reasons. Ensemble directors and the leader of co-curricular music will always keep this in mind when discussing absence with students and parents.

Uniform

Details related to uniform at performances, workshops and special events will always be outlined to students in written excursion information notes and provided verbally in rehearsal. All students participating in MacKillop College Ensembles are required to purchase a shirt to wear at performances by completing the form linked below:

https://forms.gle/6La9HWUFw9wxNeSX8

This shirt is to be worn with black trousers, white socks and white shoes at all performance events on request from the ensemble director.

Students are to see the music trainee at rehearsal or in break times in the rehearsal rooms or staff workroom to order a shirt. Sample sizes will be available for students to try on. I encourage students to order a slightly larger shirt if in lower year groups. This performance shirt will be able to be worn across all MacKillop College and SAPSS Ensembles into the foreseeable future.

Rehearsals

Rehearsal times for all ensembles are set out in the MacKillop College Rehearsal Schedule which is made available to students through the co-curricular music google classroom page and is printed in the newsletter. Rehearsal schedules and other information is also posted on the music notice boards outside music classrooms and rehearsal spaces.

As a courtesy students are required to inform their ensemble director and the leader of co-curricular music in writing if they are no longer able to commit to membership of an ensemble. This information will assist with future planning.

The ensemble timetable for Term 1, 2023 is included below to assist with organisation. Please read over this information and take note of times and venues.

Please note rehearsals will commence Week 3! (unless notified otherwise via email by your Ensemble director)

Music Tuition Program
Many aspiring music students of today often find “DIY” musical instrument teaching resources through online courses, apps and youtube courses. Whilst such technology is a good aid for learning, research states that the best way to learn a musical instrument is through individual tuition from an expert teacher. Furthermore, the Stage 6 music curriculum requires students to perform for assessment on an instrument of their choice. It is therefore necessary for schools with an interest in music excellence to provide opportunities for students to learn an instrument. As part of the MacKillop College Co-curricular Music Program students are provided with the opportunity to arrange private instrumental tuition directly with tutors at their homes or studios, or at school in breaks or during class time.

Students wishing to join the music tuition program are invited to contact the Co-curricular Music Coordinator by using the Music Tuition Request Form provided in the links and forms section below.

The Co-curricular Music Coordinator will then contact a suitable tutor on your behalf to check availability. The tutor will then call you directly to confirm and arrange a suitable lesson time.

Instrument Rental

A wide range of band instruments are available for hire including trumpet, trombone, clarinet, flute, saxophone, violin, guitar and bass guitar. The cost for instrument hire is $70 per term. Instruments can be rented to own upon request. This rental period is negotiable and will vary depending on the value of the instrument. These fees are invoiced to your Subject & Activities Statement each Term. As these fees are considered ‘extra-curricular’, this amount must be paid by Week 6 of each Term and must not at any time run into arrears.  Please advise the College if your method of payment is via Bpay so that it can be matched accordingly. The first term of rental is free to allow students time to “settle” with the instrument.

The College will be responsible for minor repairs. Accessories such as reeds, valve oil and strings will be the student’s responsibility.

Co-curricular Music Google Classroom

All members of the co-curricular music ensemble program are required to sign up to the Google Classroom that will provide important information throughout the year. It is also possible for parents to sign up to this classroom providing you have google accounts. If you would like access to this classroom please follow the link below to sign up.

Links & Forms

Music Ensemble Sign Up Form 2023

Music Ensemble Shirt Order Form 2023

Music Tuition Request Form 2023

Co curricular Music Google Classroom

Upcoming Events

Inaugural Mass Rehearsal

• Tuesday 7 February - Chapel, 8:00am. The Collective Praise Band & Singers

Inaugural Mass

• Wednesday 8 February - College Hall, 8:15am (sound check). Period 1. The Collective Praise Band & Singers

Please contact Rob Denham with any questions relating to the co-curricular music program at MacKillop College.

Robert Denham
Leader of Co-Curricular Music

Travel Safety Reminders

As students return to school, it is important to keep travel safety in mind. Take time to talk with your children about travelling to and from school safely.

Here are some safety tips:

Be alert and aware by travelling distraction-free. Ask children to take off their headphones when walking, exiting or entering the bus and crossing the road.

Choose a safe place to cross. The fastest way may not be the safest way. Walk the extra distance to use a pedestrian crossing or traffic island.

Keep safe getting in and out of the car. Always use the door closest to the kerb.

Keep safe getting on and off the bus. Wait at the bus stop and stand at least one step back from the edge of the road. Wait until the bus has gone, before you cross the road.

Bus/Bus Stops/Bus Interchange Areas. Model safe and respectful behaviour while waiting for and travelling on the bus. Remember that younger students look up to you, so please lead by example, so they learn to behave safely and act respectfully while waiting for and travelling on the bus.

Riding to school. Students are asked, once they have arrived on school property, to disembark from their bike and walk it to the storage racks. Students must walk their bike through the tunnel.

Wearing a helmet. Children must wear a helmet when riding a bike in any public place – it’s the law.

Student driver reminder. If your child will be driving to and from school, remind them that they are required to adhere to all road rules and drive in a safe and responsible manner. Inexperienced drivers commonly underestimate the risks associated with particular driving behaviours or situations and overestimate their capacity to deal with them. Have a caring conversation about road speeds on the route that they travel, where they will park and the importance of wearing a seatbelt. According to recent research 1 in 5 teens has been found to consistently not wear a seat belt.

Restricted licence holders including learner, P1 and P2 drivers are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.  This includes the use of hands-free and bluetooth functions. Ask them to keep their phone in their bag or glovebox.

You may choose to watch with them Understanding Casual Speeding Every K Counts  

Parents and carers, we thank you for being positive role models when you are a pedestrian, passenger and driver. Children learn from what they see, as well as what we say.

Please remember to never sacrifice safety for convenience.

Source: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/

Principal's Update

Welcome to 2023

Following on from my letter on Monday, I warmly welcome all students, staff and families to the College for our 2023 school year.

The staff are excited to be working with you this year. As we celebrated Mass together last Friday with all staff in St Agnes’ Parish schools we renewed our commitment to the faith, learning and wellbeing growth of the young people in our care. Staff take our privilege to work with young people as a great honour as well as a great responsibility. This responsibility, entrusted to us by parents and families, is one we do not take lightly and do all we can, through working together and continually learning and upskilling, to meet the current needs of young people and ensure the highest standard of excellence in education. 

I am delighted to be working with an amazing group of leaders in 2023 to oversee the excellent work that occurs every day. Please do not hesitate at any time to contact the relevant leader to support you in supporting your son or daughter. 

2023 School Review:

Throughout this year the College will be participating in an external review process and parents and families will be invited to participate in a number of feedback and input sessions. I encourage you to make yourself available for these opportunities as your wisdom and experiences will help shape our plans for the future of the College, and ensure we are continually improving and remain as a leader in education, locally and nationally.

New staff 2023:

We are delighted to welcome the following people to the MacKillop College staff team. I know students are looking forward to meeting our new teachers and support staff and I am delighted to have them join our educational endeavour here at the College. We will introduce our new staff over the first two weeks’ newsletters. 

Keeping our young people safe:

As adults working with young people all staff at MacKillop College undergo annual training in child protection. Every staff member is a Mandatory Reporter (see below) and is expected to follow the procedures as outlined in the Diocese of Lismore and MacKillop College - Child Protection Policy 

Mandatory reporting 

Mandatory Reporters NSW Mandatory Reporter Guide – is intended to assist mandatory reporters who have become concerned about possible abuse or neglect of a child/young person and must make a decision whether or not to report their concerns. The Mandatory Reporter Guide can be accessed at the following address:  www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au

Cath Eichmann
Principal

Canteen Update

Monday 6 February
Mayo Brumby & Kate Perkins

Tuesday 7 February
Jodie Buttsworth  Emily Duffy  Anne-Marie McWhirter

Wednesday 8 February
Danielle Sen Gupta & Help Please

Thursday 9 February
Heather Sheers & Chris Jourdant

Friday 10 February
Allie Tananti, Caroline Horam, Hana Smith & Leanne Hatherly

To order from the canteen:

1. Orders can be written out at the canteen (bags supplied free of charge).

2. Orders can be written out at home and handed in at the canteen.

3. Download the Qkr! app and order online.

All orders to be in by 8:00am please.

There is hot food available over the counter to purchase, however to avoid disappointment it is best to order.

Congratulations to Year 7 for breaking the record of the most milkshakes purchased on the first day of school. 

Please remind your child/children if you have ordered for them, and what their order is. 

If your child is sick and you have ordered, please phone the canteen (6583 2632) to arrange a credit. 

Please note to change your child's year group when using the QKR! app to order lunch for 2022.

Now available: Gluten free pies $5.00 and gluten free sausage rolls $4.00; these items must be ordered.

Canteen Help Needed

The canteen is desperately seeking Volunteers for one hour a month. No cooking, cleaning or stocking needed, just serving our lovely students. Even if you can only do one half hour shift it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you to all of our current volunteers, we appreciate your help.

Sign up and receive a Welcome pack (coffee voucher, chocolates, voucher for your child to use at the canteen).
Please contact Maxine at MacKillop 6583 2632, or by email maxine.stone@lism.catholic.edu.au 

Sport News

Sport Trainee

This week we farewell our Sport Trainee for 2022, Gretel Worner. Gretel has been an absolute asset to the PDHPE and Sport departments this year. Her maturity and dedication in this role has been admirable. We wish Gretel all the best as she pursues an International Relations degree at the University of Queensland in 2023.

MacKillop College Year 7-11 Sports Awards

• Junior Team of the Year - 7/8 Boys Netball A.
• Intermediate Team of the Year - 9/10 Boys Basketball.
• Junior Sportsperson of the Year - Flynn Daly.
• Intermediate Sportsperson of the Year - Tobias Toohey.
• Year 11 Sportsperson of the Year - Tess McWilliams.
• Champion House - Innes.
• Gerard O'Brien Medal - Jesse Fisher.
• Jim O'Brien Cup 2022 - MacKillop College.

Outstanding Involvement Awards

To receive the following award a student in Year 7-10 has represented MacKillop in five or more sports.

Congratulations to Hudson Harmer, Jenaya Hourigan, Evan Lipovac, Brooke Meyers, Kiana Osmond - Dreyer, Joshua Power, Tahlia Power, Dominica Toohey, Angele Field, Lennox Jensen, Fleur Sherlock, Tess McWilliams, Joshua Bell, Riley Harmer, William Heeney, Brianna Moloney, Joseph Post, Charlee Bailey, Jenna Bryan, Edward Coombes, Patrick Field, Jasmine Lacey, Jarvis Lineham, Milly McGrath, William Oliver, Lane Jordan, Lewis Shipway, Peter Field, Evie Hewens, Tori McGrath, Arliah Morris, Claire Morris & Noah Pociask. 

Excellence in Sport

This award looks to acknowledge those athletes who have performed exceptionally well in their sport throughout the year. To receive an Excellence in Sport award a student must have represented NSWCCC, NSW All Schools, an Australian team OR received a medal at NSWCCC or higher.

Congratulations to 9/10 Boys Basketball Team (Baryden Champion, Blake Collins, Malachy Kelleher, Kaden Lawler, Blake Romer, Sam Blain, Riley Harmer, Toby Harper & Xavier Proud), Junior Boys Hockey Team (Henry Wootton, Samuel Ramke, Ajay Sen Gupta, Chase Thompson, Oliver Wootton, Mitchell Yates, Jarvis Lineham, Ethan Maher, Ashton Newton, Tobias Toohey, James Ferguson & George Worner), Zara Ferguson, Mosese Fineangonofo, Bronte McAllister, Tess McWilliams, Hamish Teasdell, Freycin Hostettler, Riley Judd, Cooper Lorger, Claire Pieren, Tobias Toohey, James Ferguson, Charlie Ford, Flynn Daly & Preston Davis. 

Volunteers

A huge thankyou goes to our wonderful students who volunteered for varying sporting events over the 2022 year. Thankyou to Ashley Bell, Joshua Bell, Jaxon Bruton, Ruby Bryant, Emily Butt, Joe Carrick, Beau Chegwidden, Zayne Cloake, Blaze Colthorpe, Grace Davies, Meredith Davies, Grace Dawson, Niah Evans, Jesse Fisher, Grace Hartley, Ethan Hatch, Archie Hawken, Will Heeney, Evie Hewens, Zeb Hogan, Gracie Huxley, Lara Inman, Lane Jordan, Charlee Lawlor, Jarvis Lineham, Cooper Lorger, Tana Marino, Andie McGrath, Tess McWilliams, Tara Mitchell, Brianna Moloney, Claire Morris, Zake Morris, Makayla Mott, India Murray, Jack Randall, Kyla Roach, Wil Rosenbaum, Lewis Tebbutt, Ethan Tombs, Nyah Villagran-Eichmann, Evie Washington, Charlotte Weatherley, Stirling Wickham, Audrey Woolnough, and George Worner.

Term 1 Sport 2023

Please refer to the College website and the links to the tables below for the sport programs for Year 7-10 Term 1 2023 Sport.

Year 7 Sport Term 1

Year 7 students will participate in their sport double once a fortnight.  Students need to come to school in their sport uniform when their timetable indicates a double sport lesson. 

From Week 2 onwards, students will need to bring to school with them their swimmers, towel, rash shirt and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) to participate in the Swim & Survive course at either the Wauchope, Kendall or Port Macquarie pool.

Parents will receive a permission note for students to participate in the course. This needs to be completed by Friday, 3 February 2023, Week 1.

Year 8 Sport Term 1

Year 8 students will participate in a wide range of sports throughout the year. During Term 1 students will participate in various sports including basketball, netball and soccer.

Year 9 Sport Term 1

Your son/daughter will participate in the Surf Survival Certificate during sport for Term 1, 2023.  This is an extension from the Swim and Survive Certificate that students completed in Year 7 Sport. Aquatics is a compulsory component of the PDHPE syllabus for all Year 9 Students. No students will be permitted to do Contract Sport in Terms 1 and 2.

This course will be run in conjunction with Surf Life Saving NSW and the Australian Lifeguard Service who will provide specialised instructors to assist our PDHPE/SPORT staff. All appropriate water safety measures will be in place to ensure the safety of our students in an open water environment. This course caters for students of all swimming abilities and aims to improve the safety of individuals in an aquatic environment.

The Surf Survival Certificate is a national swimming and water safety program that aims to provide participants with the skills and knowledge of basic patrolling and surf awareness in order to be able to participate in lifesaving operations.

Learning Outcome Modules

• Surf Awareness and Skills (describe surfing and environmental conditions and hazards, recognise appropriate beach types, conditions and areas in the surf zone for swimming and demonstrate surf skills including board rescue, tube rescue, run swim run).
• Resuscitation (perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques (chain of survival).
• First Aid (identify basic patient management techniques (DRSABCD and emergency care).
• Rescue Techniques (perform patient approaches, support and escapes aided by equipment on a conscious and an unconscious patient, identify people in distress in an aquatic environment and perform surf skills).
• Beach Management (set up a patrol and describe your role on patrol, demonstrate standard patrol practices and work as part of team).

Students will travel by bus to either the pool or beach to complete the modules with their sport teacher.

Please ensure your child has a towel, hat, rash shirt or singlet, swimmers and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) for their swimming lessons. If your child has a wetsuit it is recommended that the students bring this each week. 

If your child has already completed the Surf Survival Certificate with a Surf Life Saving Club at a community level, please provide Erin Denham with a copy of the certificate. These students will assist with water safety each week.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by Thursday, 2 February. Sport commences, Tuesday, 7 February for Year 9.

Year 10 Sport Term 1

Year 10 students will participate in seven weeks of sport for Term 1, 2023 beginning Week 2 Tuesday, 7 February.  Parents and students are reminded that it is a legal requirement that the digital permission slip is completed before the student can participate in sport, even if choosing school sport.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by Friday, 3 February.  Both parents and students are reminded that there will be NO changes to any sports for any reason, so choose your sport carefully.  Businesses rely on the student numbers we provide them and therefore we ask that you respect this commitment by not asking for your child to change sport during the Term.

MacKillop College Events and Registration

Representative

Touch Football Trials – Registration

Please click on the link below to access the 'How to Register' for students/parents wanting to attend the Diocesan Individual Touch Football Selection in Sawtell on Tuesday, 21 February 2023.

Please note that these nominations will close on Friday, 10 February 2023. 

If you are not prepared to travel to Wagga Wagga for CCC please do not nominate for Diocesan trials. 

National Schools Basketball Championships

The Year 9/10 Boys Basketball team recently travelled to the Gold Coast for the week long Australian Schools Championships.

The MacKillop team, playing in the Under 17 Division 1 competition started their campaign against the traditionally strong Rowville Secondary College from Melbourne. Rowville were a physically strong team, using this to their advantage defeating MacKillop 64-51. The second day saw the MacKillop boys bounce back with a good performance to defeat Hillcrest Christian College from the Gold Coast 79-58. Shore School from Sydney was next up, with the MacKillop boys defeating the team from Sydney 76-61.

These results from the pool games placed the team second in the pool and put them up against Scots College from Sydney in the quarter final on the Wednesday afternoon. In a very close encounter, the teams were tied at the end of regular time. The boys were able to hold their nerve to win in the overtime period, defeating Scots 52-50.

This win placed the team into the semi-finals against Berwick College from Melbourne. In a very tough game, the boys went down 94-48. This placed the MacKillop team into the Bronze medal game against Westfields Sports High from Sydney. In another very close and exciting game, the MacKillop boys were in it until the very end going down 66-62. This result means that the boys finish the year as the 4^th best Under 17 school team in Australia, a great accomplishment. The team have had a great year, winning the Lismore Diocesan Championships and NSW CCC State Championships and finishing with 16 wins and 3 losses for the year.

Congratulations to the boys who were involved – Xavier Proud, Toby Harper, Sam Blain, Riley Harmer, Blake Collins, Blake Romer, Malachy Kelleher, Kaden Lawler, Lucas Scott & Brayden Champion.

Thank you to Harry Towle and Adam O’Brien who help coach and manage the team throughout the year. A very big thankyou to Dean Lawler who helped as the team physio on the Gold Coast. A big thank you to past students, Darcy Pares, Lachlan Wood and Zac Campbell who gave up their time to help out as assistant coaches over the week. Lastly, a big thank you also to the parents who travelled and helped out over the year.

Ryan Adams
Coach

NRL 7s – Under 14 Girls

On Thursday, 1 December we completed at the NRL Summer 7s Rugby League competition. The U14s had a mix of experienced rugby league players combined with rugby union, league tag and touch footballers. The first game was against Melville High School and they scored an impressive 4 tries against 2 winning the game 16-8 and getting their day off to a good start.

The second game was against Kempsey Adventist School and again MacKillop scored 4 tries and improved their defense not allowing their opponents through resulting in a 20-0 score.

The third round game was against Camden Haven High School. Again the girls demonstrated their attacking ability scoring 3 tries against 1 with the final score 12-4.

The fourth round game was against St Clare’s High School. This school had also not dropped a game and was our biggest challenge of the day. Unfortunately, the Taree school got ahead with 2 early tries after MacKillop had a bye round and was slow to get moving again.

With only 7 minute halves there was not enough time to catch them and the MacKillop team went down 16-8.

With 3 wins and 1 loss the girls made it through to the finals and would play St Clare’s High School. With a few different tactics, the MacKillop girls looked strong both in attack and defence throughout the final game. They flipped the round score taking out the day as champions with a 16-8 win in the final! Well done to all girls on great teamwork and sportsmanship the whole day.

The team consisted of Darcie Gleeson, Sehtaya Gordon, Leah Hanson, Natalie Howard, Jasmine Lacey, Charlee Lawlor, Arliah Morris, Lily Moseley, Charlotte Weatherley, Inala Gibbs, Gemirah Fernando and Madison Kooloos. Thanks also to Cooper Lorger who helped run water during the competition.

Kate Cowan
Coach

NRL 7s – Under 14 Boys

The Under 14s Boys Rugby League team played in the NRL Summer 7s competition at Stuart’s Park on Thursday, 1 December. Lead by Darwin Tink and Eli Hudson, the boys had a convincing win over Kempsey Adventist School. Zach Madeley, Harrison Foster and Arthur Schmude displayed solid attacking efforts against some tough competition from Kempsey High School and Camden Haven High School.

All the boys should be commended on their sportsmanship and efforts throughout the entire competition. 

Most Valuable Player: Zach Madeley 

Blake Jamison
Coach

NRL 7s – Under 16 Girls

The Under 16 girls Rugby League team took to the field for the last time this year in the NRL 7s played last week at Stuart Park.

The girls draw only had them play three games. Game 1 against Hastings Secondary College saw the girls post their first win of the day 10-8 with Briana dominating the opposition scoring two tries and converting one of her goals.

Game 2 was against Melville High School. Our girls put on a true team performance with a convincing win 12-4. Lani, Briana and Maddie (2) all scored tries with Lani converting her own try.

Game 3 was against Chatham High School. This game was a much more physical encounter with both teams crossing for two tries a piece. Unfortunately, we did not convert our goals losing the match 8-10. Penny and Maddie scoring our tries to finish the day.

The girls finished the day in second place and I am certain if we had our full strength team including Tess, Charlee and Jenna the girls would have easily finished on top of the ladder. Congratulations to Briana Anderson on being named Most Valuable Player.

Congratulations to all the girls on a great effort – you have improved so much throughout the year and have been a pleasure to coach.

Briana Anderson, Evie Barnaby, Maddie Cottrell-Dormer, Niah Evans, Alanah Logan-Pye, Ally Mitchell, Penny Sprague, Zoe Stansfield, Angele Field, Indies Collyer, Ruby O’Bryan, Tess McWilliams (Manager)

Thank you to Tess McWilliams (Manager) and Beau Chegwidden (Runner) who also assisted the team on the day.

Erin Denham
Coach

NRL 7s – Under 16 Boys

The Under 16’s Rugby League team had the opportunity to finish the year off with one last rugby league tournament. They played three-round games, narrowly losing one and convincingly winning the other two.

The team then went on to defeat Melville High School in the semi-final. We then took on Taree High School again after a narrow loss to them in the first-round game.

Unfortunately, we had the same result and went down by two points in the final. Some standout performances on the day were from Wil Rosebaum, Wil Heeney and Bailey Pawlak.

MVP - Wil Rosebaum.

Glen Littler
Coach

Berg Shield Cricket
MacKillop College VS James Sheehan College Orange 

Congratulations to the MacKillop College Berg Shield team (Year 9 and under) who defeated James Sheehan College Orange, in Round 3 of the Statewide knockout in Thornleigh last Friday.

Batting first, the MacKillop team were able to amass a good score of 4/141 from their 20 overs. Captain Freycin Hostettler anchored the innings with a fine 56. He was well supported by number 3 Harley Cottom who put together a stylish 28 runs. Some late hitting by Mitchell White (20 not out) proved valuable to the overall team effort.

In reply, MacKillop opening bowlers Freycin Hosttettler and George Worner took early wickets before an onslaught from James Sheehan number 4 batsman, who scored 61 from around 20 balls, saw them cruising to victory at 2/98 in the 12th over. Spinner Cooper Sheldon (2/14) made the vital breakthrough in the thirteenth over, taking two wickets. Mitchell White (1/22), George Worner (1/14), Alex Ball (1/10) and Freycin Hostettler (3/29), were able to keep the pressure on  the James Sheehan team who fell 2 runs short of the MacKillop total. An exciting end to a great game! 

The MacKillop College team now plays St John’s College, Woodlawn in Round 4 of the competition early next year. A special thank you to umpire Colin Coelho and trainee Gretel Worner who assisted on the day.

David McMahon
Berg Shield coach

Registrations

All registrations for MacKillop College sport teams will be completed by students via logging into the school Moodle page. Go to the Student Links tab on the left hand side and click on the Representative Sports Registrations link. Click on the relevant sport and fill out the google form.

Students will be notified through the morning notices of when to sign up, and when trials will occur.

Click on this link to register.

Term 1 2023

Lismore Diocesan Events and Registration

Please note that the following sports are currently open for students to be able to sign up to or register their interest to trial. These sports have been advertised to students through morning notices over the past week.

Please click on this link below to register for the sports.

NSWCCC Events and Registration

Students must be registered for the event with parent and Principal or Sport Coordinator approval.  

Registration is through the CSNSW Sport portal

For instructions on how to register go to:  Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations >>

NSWCCC Events

NSW All Schools Events

The selection for these events are a result of the NSWCCC events.

Community Sport

Tennis

Noah won the NSW State champion of champions tournament in Sydney recently. He has really stepped up his level of competing and played at a really high level four matches in a row - first time he has played very high level tennis consistently over a tournament; his reward was the title. He had to beat two higher ranked opponents, one in the semi, and then the number one seed in the final. It was a 14 year and under event so he is in the same age again next year. 

If your child has achieved outstanding sporting results in their community sport, we would love to hear about it. Please email myself, or your child’s respective Leader of Pastoral Care, so we can acknowledge these achievements. 

If you have any questions regarding sport at MacKillop College, please do not hesitate to contact me either by email or phone at the College.

Erin Denham
Leader of Sport

Year 10

Congratulations to all Year 10 students and parents on making it through another very challenging year! It has been a pleasure to see the students grow and mature in 2022. 

Farewell to those students leaving us, and I encourage students returning to MacKillop to recharge their batteries and return next year with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and clear goals to guide them through Year 11.

I'd very much like to thank each of the Year 10 PC teachers: Dan Watts, Laura Curtin, Rachel Clarke, Nicole Thompson, Nikki Lutton, Kylie Ryan, Chantelle Seears, Daniel Blackman, Lisa Wilton, Brad Vergano, Brent Lowrey, Jenni Sewell, Laura Cudmore and Ryan Adams for the amazing work they do with our students each and every day. I'd also like to thank the Leader of Stage 5, Glen Littler for all of his hard work and support this year. Lastly, I'd like to thank the wonderful Year 10 students and their parents and carers for their ongoing commitment to their studies and support of the school.  

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year!

David Kennedy
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 11

With the year drawing to a close I would like to wish all our Year 11 students and families a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with your sons and daughters throughout the year and look forward to another wonderful year working together in 2023.

I would sincerely like to acknowledge all the amazing work the Year 11 PC team have done this year in supporting both our young people and myself in the role of Leader of Pastoral Care. Our students are definitely in good hands. Thank you to Kelly Higham, James Westman, Anne Marie Stacey, Alexa Harvey, Katrina Hayes, Lisa Wilton and Tanille Gardner.

We finished the year together with a Year 11 Christmas Party with Kris Kringle presents for everyone on Wednesday. Fun was had by all and a great way to spend time together as a year group to celebrate the end of Year 11.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Tracey Bewicke
Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 9

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Pastoral Coordinator’s Award: Liam Poppleton (x 2).

In last year’s final newsletter, I wrote about 2022 being the year of difference. Hopefully 2022 was the year you tried out for that sporting team. Did you put your name down for the percussion ensemble or pick up that book on the shelf? Or maybe you changed someone’s life by volunteering or helping in the community. 2022 isn’t over yet, so start ticking some things off now.

It has been great to spend a considerable amount of time with Year 9 and getting to know them as individuals. The Canberra excursion and Stoney Aqua Park days will be ones to remember. I highly value the partnerships that I have created with the students, parents and carers throughout the year. I will continue as the Leader of Pastoral Care with Year 10 in 2023 and I look forward to strengthening those partnerships. Thank you for another memorable year.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our Year 9 Pastoral Care Team: Kate Cowan, Amy Ryals, David Pugh, Danny Murphy, Michael Peck, Tess Minett, Phil Magick, James Way, Rochelle Fineanganofo and Col Coelho. Thanks for your hard work, patience and care of our Year 9 cohort.

I need to remind Year 9 about the importance of adhering to the school policies when they return in 2023. There will be checks from day one on uniform, haircuts, jewellery, make-up, shoes, use of the diary and punctuality to class. I would hate to have to send students home for extreme haircuts or piercings that break our Code of Presentation on the first day of school. Be sure that everything is in order for the return to school.

Have a safe, happy and relaxing holiday break. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a joyful New Year.

God Bless.

Daniel O’Dell
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 7

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Zeke Anderson, Zachary Bibel, Riley Dailey, Luke Everson, Sarah Gleeson, Caitlyn Inman, Nessa Kinchington, Julia Streegan, Faith Urquhart and Lani Warren.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Zeke Anderson, Diarmuid Barltrop, Zachary Bibel, Khye Bibby, Charlie Cameron, Riley Dailey (x3), Peter Duffy, Luke Everson, Peter Field, Sarah Gleeson, Patrick Green, Archie Hawken, Amelia Heery, Caitlyn Inman (x3), Dylan Keane, Nessa Kinchington, Lucas Manning, Milla Pieren, Julia Streegan, Marley Thick, Faith Urquhart (x2), Jude Vasilescu, Lani Warren (x2), Sierra Westbrook and Henry Wootton.

Science

Students in Jenny Sewell’s and Rachel Clarke’s Year Science classes were involved in a project with the Hastings Council Environmental Laboratory. 

The Council runs a Christmas Competition between the various departments employed by them. Our science class participated to help the environmental laboratory win the most sustainable Christmas-themed decoration, and were displayed for the public to see in the environmental laboratory located at Charles Sturt University. 

The students constructed 'mini houses' out of cardboard boxes and decorated them based on their knowledge of Biology and Chemistry with the overall theme being about the role of the laboratory in monitoring and testing our water and of course, Christmas! (see photo below). 

Students also were able to relate their learning experiences to a real-life understanding of how our water is tested to keep the community safe including the type of test the laboratory performs to make sure our drinking water is of high quality (see a photo of the microbiology laboratory below and more information found on the website link here). 

The Scientists at the laboratory were extremely impressed with the work, creativity and themes the students came up with, and the students as well as MacKillop College were also acknowledged in the announcement of the winning teams by the Hastings Council. 

A huge thank you to Kelly Waters who assisted with the project, her creative skills and ideas were key to a successful result! 

Reported by Jenni Sewell

End of Year Activities

Year 7 have engaged in a variety of activities this week with enthusiasm and goodwill: engaging in the team-building pastoral day at Stoney Aqua Park or at the Town Centre and cinema experience; celebrating student successes at our Major College, Academic and Service Awards; learning in classes and celebrating personal achievements at our end of year Excellence and Application Award Ceremony. Year 7 students who engaged and finished their first year of secondary school ‘strong’ are to be congratulated.

PC Teachers

I would like to say a huge thank you to the Year 7 pastoral team. I am always inspired by the genuine care and dedication these teachers have for their students. Year 7 is very lucky to have them and I am truly grateful for all that they do. 

Sadly, we have to say goodbye to Blake Jamison. Newly married, he will be leaving us at the end of the year to work in Newcastle. Blake has been very caring of 7F1 and a wonderful support person to them and me. We also take the opportunity to wish Adam O’Brien well in his new role as Leader of Pastoral Care of Year 7 next year.  Adam has helped settle 7M1 during their first year of high school with calm and positivity and I am certain his students have prepared him to be an excellent leader of a young cohort. 

We welcome Greg Finney and Zac Nancarrow to the PC team for F1 and M2 respectively. We all look forward to working with all of the students and their families as we navigate Year 8 together.

Seasons Greetings

Finally, together with the Year 7 Pastoral Care team, we wish all students and their families a happy, safe and holy yuletide and a healthy and prosperous New Year. 

Below are some pictures of Emma Daley’s RE class who utilised some of our scraps of materials from textiles, which are sometimes otherwise hard to use, to create sustainable Christmas wreaths. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Nicole O'Connell
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 8

Congratulations

Congratulations to Abbie Brennan who has received a Silver Principal’s Award.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Pastoral Coordinator’s Award: Abbie Brennan, Meredith Davies and Megan Goldie.

Thank You

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Year 8 cohort for giving me the opportunity of getting to know and lead them for the first time in 2022. What a great year group this turned out to be, and with so many happy memories from the year. I will, however, not be with them next year as the Leader of Pastoral Care as I step back into my curriculum leadership role within the school. I have no doubt, however, they will be in great hands and the group will continue to flourish and grow as they move onto the challenges of Year 9 in 2023. I value the partnerships that I have created with the students and also with you, their parents and carers. 

I would sincerely like to thank PC Teachers: David McMahon, Michelle Marino, Megan Verdon, Rob Geaney, Cara Stewart, Bronwyn Avery, Richard May, Tessa Stillman, Debra Kenworthy, Penny Tejcek, Susan Eichorn, Amber Mann, Harrison Towle, Ann Palmer, Bruce Smith, Warren Lorger and Stephanie Connor. Without their dedication, care and hard work, the students in their care would have had a very different experience during the year. I thank them personally; it has been rewarding to work with a group of people who truly care for the wellbeing of their students.

To Year 8, their families and the wider MacKillop community I wish you all a safe and restful Christmas and a happy New Year. As you return to 2023 remember to come with an appreciation of what we have accomplished this year, and an acknowledgement of what a great place MacKillop College is to be a part of. 

Thoughts and prayers to all. 

The Year 8 cohort celebrated the theme for 2022 of
“finding happiness in making others happy”.

Greg Finney
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care

Back to School Vouchers 2023

About the vouchers

The Back to School NSW Vouchers program provides 3 x $50 vouchers, totalling $150 for each eligible student.

The vouchers can be used:

• Towards the cost of school uniforms, shoes, bags, textbooks and stationery.
• At registered businesses in Port Macquarie. 
• Before 30 June 2023.

Follow the link below for more information on how to apply and registered businesses in our area. 

Canteen

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful group of canteen helpers from 2022.  Many of you have done extra days to help out, and we greatly appreciate and value our parent community for their assistance and support. 

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Maxine Stone
Canteen Co-ordinator

Music News

“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”- Martin Luther

Co-curricular Music Awards

Congratulations to all co curricular music award recipients!

• Most Valuable Musician (Woodwind) Tara Mitchell.
• Most Valuable Musician (Brass) Lara Inman.
• Most Valuable Musician (Percussion) Zachary Tay.
• Most Valuable Musician (Strings) Wilson Minogue.
• Most Valuable Musician (Voice) Emily Galvin.
• Outstanding Contribution to the Co-curricular Instrumental Program Adam Bryant.
• Outstanding Contribution to the Co-curricular Vocal Program Jiya Jamu.
• Outstanding Contribution to the SAPSS Music Ensemble Program Callum Pender-Buchan.
• Co-curricular Music Leadership Award Callum Pender-Buchan.

Rehearsals and Tuition 2023

Please note that the ensemble and tuition program will commence in Week 3, Term 1 2023.

Concert Band and Senior Stage Band will both rehearse on Monday mornings from 8:00am next year. The concert band is open to ALL students from Years 7 - 12 whilst the Senior Stage Band is by invitation only.

The Musical Theatre Company (singers) will continue on Tuesday mornings and The Collective Praise Band and Singers will remain on Wednesday mornings, with the possibility of investigating afternoon rehearsals as well. More on this in the new year.

Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble and Brass Ensemble will also run in 2023. Times will be confirmed in Term 1. Junior Drumline will remain on Tuesday afternoons and Senior Drumline on Wednesday afternoon. In addition, Friday morning rehearsals for the SAPSS New Zealand Tour Ensembles will also commence in the new year. Students participating in the tour are reminded that membership in a MacKillop Ensemble is also required.

Collective Praise Band & Singers are to attend a rehearsal in the Chapel from 8:00am on Tuesday, 7 February to prepare for Inaugural Mass the following morning (Wednesday, 8 February).

Thank you to all students, tutors and families for your commitment to the co-curricular music program at the College throughout the year. There has been much music making with many smiling faces and enjoyment. The College music community is alive and well and will undoubtedly develop even further in 2023.

Merry Christmas!

SAPSS Ensembles New Zealand Tour Update

A fundraising plan has been developed by the parent fundraising committee for the New Zealand Tour. If your child is attending the New Zealand Tour and you would like more information about how to get involved in fundraising, please contact Rochelle Fineanganofo at MacKillop College or email Rob Denham (Leader of Co-curricular Music).

There will be a Bunnings BBQ run by the parent fundraising committee on Sunday, 15 January 2023.

More information regarding fundraising for the tour will be available in Term 1 - watch this space!

Upcoming Events

St Agnes' Parish Christmas Eve Family Mass

• Saturday, 24 December - College Hall, 6:00pm - 7:00pm. Student and staff volunteers.

Inaugural Mass Rehearsal

• Tuesday, 7 February - Chapel, 8:00am. The Collective Praise Band & Singers.

Inaugural Mass

• Wednesday, 8 February - College Hall, 8:00am. The Collective Praise Band & Singers.

Please contact Rob Denham with any questions relating to the Co-curricular Music program at MacKillop College.

Robert Denham
Leader of Co-curricular Music

Principal's Update

Christmas Wish, 2022 & Thank You

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all students, staff and parents for your contribution to MacKillop College in 2022. 

Special thanks to those members of the MacKillop family who are leaving the College today, and in particular to the five retiring members of staff. Julie Tipper, Noel Stevenson, Paul Robins, Judy Smallwood and Lindy Frost retire after a combined 127 years of service to the College. We wish them all the best for a happy and healthy retirement. 

MacKillop has celebrated much success and many highlights in 2022, all of which can be read in our 2022 Yearbook which will be published early 2023. Special thanks to Alex Bamford for her work on compiling such a comprehensive record of our school year. 

I wish everyone a blessed and joy-filled Christmas, and a safe and restful holiday season. 

It has been my honour to lead the College in 2022 and I look forward to working with you in 2023.

Years 7 - 11 Major Awards

Congratulations to the following students who received awards at our Academic and Service Awards. 

Leslie Bush Memorial Award: Maddison McGrath

Premier's Respect Award: Tyler Morris

Mary MacKillop Community Service Award: Johnathon Cains, Georgia Ryan, Jack O'Connell, Harmony Mitchell, Patrick Field, Ashleigh Hunt, Cameron Bullock, Oliva Blake, Lucas Morris & Ziva Balkin

MacKillop School Spirit Award: Lennox Jensen, Tess McWilliams, Ross Aird, Jiya Jamu, Cooper Lorger, Miya Freeman, Flynn Burrage, Meredith Davies, Patrick Green & Paige Goldie

MacKillop Quiet Achiever Award: Elliot Worner, Jaz Letchford, Jonah Meertens, Emily Chan, Tyler Morris, Belinda Bugler, Jarrod Dingle, Madeline Poulton, Jesse Taylor & Zoe Mizzi

Father Donnelly Award: Liam Cameron, Tia McGrath, Marney Noonan, Seppe Beeckmans, Emily Galvin, Brianna Moloney, Tom Ryan, Falyn Carle, Milly McGrath, Tobias Toohey, Alexandra Bransdon, Daisy Duncan, Hunter Davis, Claire Morris, Noah Pociask & Keegan Pope

St Agnes' Catholic Parish Youth Award: Georgia Ryan, Elliot Worner, Jiya Jamu, Lourdes Obeid, George Worner, Lucy Ryan and Lucas Morris

MacKillop Academic Endeavour Award: Harper Murray & Lottie Wilson

Academic Honours: Miya Freeman, Anna Harmer, Milly McGrath, Jamali Middlebrook & Aiden Moore - Jones.

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 29

Next

Outstanding Achievement Awards: 

Year 7: Ziva Balkin, Samantha Carr, Flynn Daly, Philippa Eakin, Joshua Freeman, Sarah Gleeson, Paige Goldie, Patrick Green, Anna Harmer, Ebony Hassett, Nessa Kinchington, Tori McGrath, Jessica Moore, Maici O'Keefe, Milly Platt, Noah Pociask, Keegan Pope, Isabelle Reed, Lily Rowlatt, Benjamin Spencer, Charlotte Taylor, Jesse Taylor, Marley Thick, Summer Waite, Lani Warren, and Luke Westman.

Year 8: Mia Bailey, Olivia Blake, Alexandra Bransdon, Ryan Brumby, Jarrod Dingle, Daisy Duncan, Isobel Galvin, Megan Goldie, Nathan Johns, Sara Markovic, Charlotte Memmott, Jessica Miles, Madeline Poulton, and Gilbert White.

Year 9: Aidan Archer, Sophie Bryant, Belinda Bugler, Emma Burge, Isabella Campbell, Samantha Carlton, Miya Freeman, Grace Hartley, Sophia Horan Juzenas, Ava Hughes, Cooper Lorger, Milly McGrath, Cara McIlroy, Jamali Middlebrook, Rachel Nichols, Liam Poppleton, Lincoln Saunders and George Worner.

Year 10: Ross Aird, Seppe Beeckmans, Lorelai Champion, Emily Chan, Lucy Evans, Isabella Fonyodi, Chelsea Gallagher, Amy Hatherly, Euan Hoffmann, Lara Inman, Jiya Jamu, Maeve Kinchington, Jonah Meertens, Tara Mitchell, Brianna Moloney, Aiden Moore-Jones, Caitlyn Pares, Tahlia Reed, Tayte Schultz, Sienna Taylor and Emma Westman.

Major Co-curricular award Years 7 - 11

Music

• Most Valuable Musician:  Lara Inman, Zachary Tay, Tara Mitchell, Wilson Minogue & Emily Galvin
• Outstanding Contribution to Co-curricular Music: Jiya Jamu, Adam Bryant & Callum Pender - Buchan
• Co-Curricular Music Leadership Award: Callum Pender - Buchan
• Jenni Searson Music Ministry Award: Jiya Jamu

Dance

• Most Valuable Dancer: Olivia Thompson & Emily Chan
• Outstanding Contribution to Co-curricular Dance: Claire Morris & Jorja Smith
• Co-curricular Dance Leadership Award: Ashleigh Strong & Lorelai Champion

Drama

• Most Valuable Performer: Poppy Mason
• Outstanding Contribution to Co-curricular Drama: Evie Bullen
• Co-curricular Drama Leadership Award: Anna Harmer

Sport

• Excellence in Sport: Congratulations to 9/10 Boys Basketball Team (Baryden Champion, Blake Collins, Malachy Kelleher, Kaden Lawler, Blake Romer, Sam Blain, Riley Harmer, Toby Harper & Xavier Proud), Junior Boys Hockey Team (Henry Wootton, Samuel Ramke, Ajay Sen Gupta, Chase Thompson, Oliver Wootton, Mitchell Yates, Jarvis Lineham, Ethan Maher, Ashton Newton, Tobias Toohey, James Ferguson & George Worner), Zara Ferguson, Mosese Fineangonofo, Bronte McAllister, Tess McWilliams, Hamish Teasdell, Freycin Hostettler, Riley Judd, Cooper Lorger, Claire Pieren, Tobias Toohey, James Ferguson, Charlie Ford, Flynn Daly & Preston Davis. 
• Outstanding Involvement in Sport: Hudson Harmer, Jenaya Hourigan, Evan Lipovac, Brooke Meyers, Kiana Osmond - Dreyer, Joshua Power, Tahlia Power, Dominica Toohey, Angele Field, Lennox Jensen, Fleur Sherlock, Tess McWilliams, Joshua Bell, Riley Harmer, William Heeney, Brianna Moloney, Joseph Post, Charlee Bailey, Jenna Bryan, Edward Coombes, Patrick Field, Jasmine Lacey, Jarvis Lineham, Milly McGrath, William Oliver, Lane Jordan, Lewis Shipway, Peter Field, Evie Hewens, Tori McGrath, Arliah Morris, Claire Morris & Noah Pociask. 
• Sportspersons of the Year: Junior - Flynn Daly. Intermediate - Tobias Toohey. Senior - Tess McWilliams.
• Teams of the Year: 9/10 Boys Basketball team & 7/8 Boys Netball team.

Award Sponsorship

Thankyou to all those in our community including businesses and families (some who wish to remain anonymous), who offered sponsorship for our Semester 2 Awards. We greatly appreciate your contribution to our College. 

• Bugler Family.
• Corr Family.
• Councillor Nik Lipovac.
• East Coast Distributors.
• Hopkins Consultants.
• Intersports.
• Kinchington Family.
• Lorger Family.
• Luke Seears Concreting.
• Mayor Peta Pinson.
• Morgans Port Macquarie.
• Pye Provedores.

End of Year Reports

End of Year Reports have been uploaded Wednesday, 14 December (Year 10) and Friday, 16 December (Year 7 - 9) via the parent and student portal. Please note if your child is exiting their education with the Diocese of Lismore you will be locked out of Schoolworx from close of business following the day of departure. As such, I encourage all parents to download any previous semester reports from the Parent Portal in Schoolworx. Please see the link on how to access the Parent Portal.

Please note the Student/Parental Portal will be unavailable from 16 January 2023 until the morning of 27 January 2023. Students will be able to access their 2023 timetable from 27 January. 

Classes 2023

Students will receive their timetables via Schoolworx next year prior to their return to school. I request parents and caregivers be mindful that there are many considerations and limitations when it comes to round classes. With the number of students in our College, it is not logistically possible to ensure all students have 'a close friend' in their class. School is also about preparing our young people for the working world whereby at 13, 23 or 43 we will be required to work with various people who may not always be like-minded and whom we do not know well. At MacKillop, we accept all and respect everyone’s right to dignity and learning. Please encourage your son or daughter to have a positive mindset to change, faith and understanding that the existing friendships they enjoy will strengthen with continued connection outside the classroom, and to be open to forming new friendships and positive peer relationships. 

It is College practice that students will not be permitted to change round classes, except in exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the Leader of Pastoral Care, Assistant Principal's or the Principal. 

Code of Presentation 2023

As 2022 draws to a close, I realise many families start to consider what uniform items need to be purchased over the summer. I wanted to remind parents of the following when considering or purchasing items for 2023:

• Four uniform items have been removed from the Code of Presentation and thus cannot be worn in 2023

1. old style sport shorts;
2. tracksuits without the MacKillop logo;
3. white socks with the formal uniform; and
4. white sport socks (with teal band).

• To be particularly vigilant when purchasing shoes:

1. shoes must be plain (no obvious logos), all black, all leather (no rubber toes), polishable lace-up shoes;
2. sport shoes must be lace-up jogger or cross trainer style suitable for sport;
3. sport shoes must have arch and heel support;
4. no canvas shoes, gym boots, skate shoes or other casual footwear are permitted.

• Please carefully consider the length of uniform items and to adjust them, if needed, before the commencement of school next year.

I have included below the 2023 College Code of Presentation and the storyboard of the uniform items.

2023 Requisites Lists

Please find below for your convenience Years 8 - 11 Requisites for 2023.

2023 Start of Term Dates

Please see below important dates for Week 1, Term 1, 2023:

• Monday, 30 January - Staff Professional Learning Day.
• Tuesday, 31 January - Years 7 and 11 #WeThrive Conversations 8.30am - 3.30pm (Year 7 College Library, Year 11 JMC). 
• Wednesday, 1 February - First day for Years 7, 11 and 12.
  Year 9 #weThrive Conversations 8.30am - 3.30pm (College Library).
• Thursday, 2 February -  First day for Years 8, 9 and 10.

#weThrive Conversations for Year 7, 9 and 11

Please book your #weThrive Conversation time.  An email was sent on 6 December 2022 advising your child’s PC and containing the booking link. 

Our #weThrive Conversations are where each student’s learning goals, strengths and individual needs can be explored.  Conversations are being held as follows:

Year 11

Monday, 30 January 2023: 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Tuesday, 31 January 2023: 8.45am - 3.15pm

Year 9

Monday, 30 January 2023: 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Wednesday, 1 February 2023: 8.45am - 3.15pm

Year 7

Monday, 30 January 2023: 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Tuesday, 31 January 2023: 8.45am - 3.15pm

We thank you if you have made your conversation time and if you have not, please do so now.

Cath Eichmann
Principal

Christmas fundraiser

2023 Requisites

Please find below for your convenience, Years 8 - 11 Requisites for 2023.

Sport Update

Term 4 Sport 2022

Term 1 Sport 2023

Please refer to the College website for the Sport Programs for Year 7-10 Term 1, 2023 Sport.

Year 7

Year 7 students will participate in their sport double once a fortnight.  Students need to come to school in their sport uniform when their timetable indicates a double sport lesson. 

From Week 2 onwards, students will need to bring to school with them their swimmers, towel, rash shirt and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) to participate in the Swim & Survive course at either the Wauchope, Kendall or Port Macquarie pool.

Parents will receive a digital permission note for students to participate in the course. This needs to be completed by Friday, 3 February 2023.

Year 8

Year 8 students will participate in a wide range of sports throughout the year. During Term 1 students will participate in various sports including Basketball, Netball and Soccer.

Year 9

Your child will participate in the Surf Survival Certificate during sport for Term 1, 2023.  This is an extension from the Swim and Survive Certificate that students completed in Year 7 Sport. Aquatics is a compulsory component of the PDHPE syllabus for all Year 9 Students. No students will be permitted to do Contract Sport during Term 1.

This course will be run in conjunction with Surf Life Saving NSW and the Australian Lifeguard Service who will provide specialised instructors to assist our PDHPE/Sport staff. All appropriate water safety measures will be in place to ensure the safety of our students in an open water environment. This course caters for students of all swimming abilities and aims to improve the safety of individuals in an aquatic environment.

The Surf Survival Certificate is a national swimming and water safety program that aims to provide participants with the skills and knowledge of basic patrolling and surf awareness in order to be able to participate in lifesaving operations.

Learning Outcome Modules

Surf Awareness and Skills

• Describe surfing and environmental conditions and hazards
• Recognise appropriate beach types, conditions and areas in the surf zone for swimming
• Demonstrate surf skills (board rescue, tube rescue, run swim run)
  

Resuscitation

• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques (chain of survival).

First Aid

• Identify basic patient management techniques (DRSABCD and emergency care).

Rescue Techniques

• Perform patient approaches, support and escapes aided by equipment on a conscious and an unconscious patient
• Identify people in distress in an aquatic environment
• Perform surf skills

Students will travel by bus to either the pool or beach to complete the modules with their sport teacher.

Please ensure your child has a towel, hat, rash shirt or singlet, swimmers and shorts (bike pants are acceptable) for their swimming lessons. If your child has a wetsuit it is recommended that the students bring this each week. 

If your child has already completed the Surf Survival Certificate with a Surf Life Saving Club at a community level, please provide Mrs Denham with a copy of this certificate. These students will assist with water safety each week.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by Thursday, 2 February. Sport commences Tuesday, 7 February for Year 9.

Year 10

Students will select their sport online next  week  using the  unique code that will be emailed to them through Edval. 

The survey will open at 8:45 Tuesday, 6 December and close at 3:00pm Thursday, 8 December. If you are not present at school you can still complete the survey at home. 

Year 10 students will participate in seven weeks of sport for Term 1, 2023 beginning Tuesday, 7 February. Parents and students are reminded that it is a legal requirement that the digital permission slip is completed before the student can participate in sport, even if choosing school sport.

Parents should have returned the digital permission form by Friday, 3 February.  Both parents and students are reminded that there will no changes to any sports for any reason, so choose your sport carefully.  Businesses rely on the student numbers we provide them and therefore we ask that you respect this commitment by not asking for your child to change sport during the Term.

MacKillop College Representative Sport & Upcoming Events

League Tag

MacKillop entered three teams into the 2022 Girls League Tag Challenge on Tuesday, 22 November. The competition was moved to Tuffins Lane and therefore smaller fields and no conversions. The league tag format was changed to nine a side with just four point tries.   

Opens

Game 1 of the day we came up against Taree High School. Our girls were nervous but excited to get out onto the field as many had never played before. The opposition were quick and talented, but our girls stepped up, demonstrating a great level of enthusiasm and communication in attack and defence. It proved to be a very evenly matched game with the final score being 16-16. Tries to Angele, Imijin, Cassidy and Fleur.

Game 2 was against St Paul’s College Kempsey. Our girls were a little more settled as they knew what to expect and our more experienced players were taking the reigns and helping wherever they could. Kempsey were able to capitalise first, however our girls were quick to respond putting together some great passes, solid tagging in defence and overall impressive teamwork. Two tries to Cassidy and one to Tallara saw MacKillop come away with a 12-4 win.

Game 3, the final for our girls proved to be a little more challenging due to tired bodies, big blisters and the hot and windy conditions. Taree were strong in attack from the get go, they showcased some serious speed and were able to dart through our defence to score a few quick tries. Our girls should be commended for their display of sportsmanship and never give up attitude. They played right to the final whistle but unfortunately ended up runners up for the day. Final score 12-0 to Taree. A wonderful achievement regardless and a very enjoyable day for all involved.

Team consisted of: Briana Anderson, Ruby Bryant, Maddie Cottrell-Dormer, Tallara Duck, Angele Field, Molly Kirk, Imijin Lynn, Tia McGrath, Brianna Moloney, Cassidy Pieren, Fleur Sherlock, Rosie Smith and Bella Morris. Best and Fairest Angele Field. 

Renae Bignall
Coach

U15s

Game 1 started the day with a close and competitive game against St Clare’s High School. St Clare’s were quick to score the first try in hot but windy conditions. The MacKillop team fought back and scored three tries with the final score being 12 - 8 (3 tries to 2). 

Game 2 was against a quick and competitive Kempsey High School who again scored the first try of the match. The MacKillop team was formidable in both their attack and defence and really gelling as a team in their designated positions. We saw quick hands, strong runs and very few tags being missed to finish the game with an impressive 32-8 (8 tries to 2).

Game 3, our last round game was a must win in order for the MacKillop 15s to reach the final and play the winner of the other pool. We played against Taree who had been very competitive in other grades. The MacKillop team got off to a good start and scored the first try. Taree then went on to score the next two tries. At half time we were down and the girls dug deep to then score another two tries in the second half confirming their win. 

Final U15s saw MacKillop College challenge Hastings Secondary College. At this stage the hot conditions, and a few injuries, started to have a toll on the players. Despite this, every player on the team played with confidence, skill and gave their all for the remaining game. Taking the win and bragging rights with a 16-8 win (4-2 tries). 

Our team consisted of: Charlee Bailey, Milla Swain, Penny Sprague, Jenna Bryan, Sehtaya Gordon, Charlee Lawlor, Jasmine Lacey, Alanah Logan-Pye, Ruby O’Bryan, Lucy Randall, Inala Gibbs, Milly McGrath, India Murray and Jamieson Looby. Best and fairest Charlee Bailey. 

Kate Cowan
Coach

U13s

The U13’s girls started the tournament against Melville High School and they set the tone for the day with a convincing 48-0 win. The girls showed amazing teamwork, positive attitudes and skills beyond their years, and as the NRL coordinator said after our first match “those girls will be hard to beat”.  

The girls continued their outstanding performance to win their round games convincingly and take out the Championship 24-8 in a hot and windy final game against Taree High school. A special mention to Darcie Gleeson (captain), Claire Morris and Maddie West who didn't seem to miss a tag all day and our try scoring machine Arliah Morris. I would also like to congratulate every team member on their amazing effort and sportsmanship throughout the day.

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to coach you. 

Team consisted of Darcie Gleeson, Gemirah Fernando, Maddie West, Clarie Morris, Arliah Morris, Lily Moseley, Ally Newton, Leah Hanson, Eliana Ballard, Tori McGrath, Hannah Gresswell, Riley Dailey, Samantha Carr, Charlotte Taylor. Best and Fairset, Arliah Morris.

Jamie Cartwright
Coach

Diocesan Golf

On Tuesday Grace Davies, Patrick Field and Edward Coombes travelled up the Pacific Highway to represent MacKillop College at the Lismore Diocese Golf Day.  It was a beautiful day and the course was in top nick; however, it would be a tough assignment for our golfers.  The famously undulating greens featured many confounding pin placements (and some were just plain cruel!), and water hazards were a danger on most holes.  Regardless, Grace scored a very respectable 33 Stableford points and came away runner-up in the girls’ category, while Patrick and Edward fought hard and will be better for the challenge of taking on such a demanding course.  Moreover, all three were fine ambassadors for our College - well done team.

Brent Lowrey
Coach

Registrations

All registrations for MacKillop College sport teams will be completed by students via logging into the school Moodle page. Go to the Student Links tab on the left hand side and click on the Representative Sports Registrations link. Click on the relevant sport and fill out the google form.

Students will be notified through the morning notices of when to sign up and when trials will occur.

Click on this link to register.

Lismore Diocesan Events & Registration

Please note that the following sports are currently open for students to be able to sign up to or register their interest to trial. These sports have been advertised to students through morning notices over the past week.

Please click on this link below to register for the sports.

Touch Football Trials - Registration

Please click on the link below to access the 'How to Register' for students/parents wanting to attend the Diocesan Individual Touch Football Selection in Sawtell on Tuesday, 21 February 2023.

Please note that these nominations will close on Friday, 10 February 2023. 

If you are not prepared to travel to Wagga Wagga for CCC please do not nominate for Diocesan trials. 

NSWCCC Events & Registration

Students MUST be registered for the event with parent and Principal approval (or Principal delegate).

Registration is through the CSNSW Sport portal. Details on how to register.

Registrations are via the CSNSW.sport portal. For instructions on how to register go to:  Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations >>

NSWCCC Events

NSW All Schools – Events

The selection for these events are a result of the NSWCCC events.

Community Sport

Football (Soccer)

Congratulations Grace Davies who has been selected in the Mid Coast FC First Grade squad. Grace has played with Mid Coast FC since she started in Girls Development. She has always been a goalkeeper and continues to love being in this position. Well done on being selected as the first grade keeper. Congratulations as well to Zora Boskovski who has also made the team.

If your child has achieved outstanding sporting results in their community sport, we would love to hear about it. Please email myself, or your child’s respective Leader of Pastoral Care, so we can acknowledge these achievements. 

If you have any questions regarding sport at MacKillop College, please do not hesitate to contact me either by email or phone at the College.

Erin Denham
Leader of Sport

Headspace Support