Term 4, Week 8, 2 December 2022
Principal's Update
End of Year
As we approach the final days of our 2022 school year I would like to invite parents and families to share in our End of Year Celebrations, including our Christmas Mass and Award Ceremonies.
Please see below an invitation to the various events.
Student Departures
If your child will be leaving MacKillop College at the end of 2022 could I please ask that you notify the College as soon as possible.
Aladdin Junior - The Musical
Saturday evening I had the opportunity to watch the finale of the wonderful St Agnes’ Parish Schools production of Aladdin. Congratulations to all involved, especially the cast and crew members from MacKillop College and to Loretta North who has worked tirelessly all year as the College committee member. Special thanks also to staff members Jamanda Eggert, Rochelle Fineangonofo, Kim Porter and Lisa Wilton who gave up a significant amount of their own time to assist in making the event such a success.
Lunch with Alumni
On 14 November we had a wonderful celebration at the College to launch the Lunch with Alumni program. The program aims to create better links with former students and create an ongoing partnership between the College and alumni.
Former students will be invited to share lunch (in person or virtually) with students across Year 7-12, sharing their post-school journey. The aim of the project is to inspire younger students to consider the travel and career opportunities that exist, and to believe that anything is possible.
Thank you to Belinda Hadfield, Jess Inglis and our Leader of Careers and Transitions, Jo Pilgrim, for their work in making the luncheon such a success. Special thanks to former students Alia Lievore and Liz Martin who were our guest speaker and caterer respectively.
If you are interested in sharing your story during a lunch with MacKillop College students in 2023, or are able to provide work experience or apprenticeships, please contact me at cath.eichmann@lism.catholic.edu.au
Student Feedback
"The MacKillop Alumni Lunch was a fantastic event! There were many people with jobs ranging from Engineers to Comedians. Listening to the past students' career paths and recommendations for our future endeavours was inspiring. Mrs Pilgrim's presentation about starting the career journey and the importance of having the required skills/education, work experience and good interpersonal skills was excellent; I believe that the information she shared with us should be communicated to all students. Even some alumni were commenting how we were really lucky to be told all of this in advance. Overall, in the future, I would love to see something like this be offered to all students so they can have the opportunity to learn and become enlightened." Miya Freeman.
Student Success
Congratulations to Year 12 student Dylan De Domizio whose HSC Art work has been selected for ARTEXPRESS, an exhibition of the best pieces of work by the 2022 HSC Visual Arts students across NSW. Dylan’s charcoal drawing of an abandoned dog behind a fence will be displayed in Dubbo and Port Macquarie in early 2023.
Congratulations to Tara Mitchell and Gilbert White who performed at WBHSLSC Twilight Markets. We heard the most wonderful feedback about you both; how mature and polite your interactions were with the organisers and general public. And, of course, how talented you both are, and how wonderful your set was.
Congratulations to Year 10 student Victoria Clapoudis who has won 1st Place in the NSW Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10) Textile Art Piece Challenge for 2022. The NSW-wide competition was based on a textile creation where students had to create a work which reflected the theme of 'light'. A fantastic effort by Victoria to win the 2022 competition with her piece. Also in textiles, students from Year 11 were invited to apply for the Timeless Quilters Awards. Congratulations to Tahnee Galvin who has placed second in this competition. Tahnee wins $150.00 to contribute to her Major Textiles Project. The remaining 5 applicants all received commendations and praise for their innovative and creative Major Textiles Project Concepts.
Model Release
You may remember that, in 2019, we launched a video that showcased the unique educational pathway on offer at our Parish schools. The video was used primarily to promote our enrolment information nights.
We are producing a new video and in the near future, some students across all year groups will be asked to participate. MacKillop College filming day will be Monday, 5 December 2022. Participating students will be filmed under the direction of the Lucid Media production team. We anticipate it will be an exciting experience and learning opportunity for all involved.
Previously on your child/children's enrolment forms, you have already provided the below consent:
6.3. Photograph/Video Permissions I/We give permission to the school, Catholic Schools Office and Catholic Schools NSW to publish any school/ related material by or about my child, including photographs and or videos in print and online promotional, marketing, media and educational material (e.g. newsletters, websites, social media, newspapers and publications) without acknowledgement, remuneration or compensation. To withdraw this authorisation and consent, you must notify the school directly. As part of this project, images and video may also be used for St Agnes’ Education print and online promotional, marketing, media and educational material (e.g. newsletters, websites, social media, newspapers and publications) without acknowledgement, remuneration or compensation.
If you DO NOT consent to your child's photograph/video appearing in the upcoming St Agnes' Parish Education Pathway video and related publications mentioned above, please notify the school no later than 9:00am Monday 5 December, 2022. Thank you for your assistance.
Health concerns for a student in our College community
I wish to advise that a student in our school community is currently receiving medical treatment for cancer. He will be attending school while recovering and undergoing treatment.
As a consequence of treatment, this student has a compromised immune system and is more vulnerable to disease. His ongoing health is at risk if he comes into contact with infectious diseases, in particular, chicken pox, measles or mumps. If your child is suspected of having any of these illnesses, it is important that they not attend school. It is very important that while your child is unwell, they remain at home until they are no longer contagious.
Information on infectious conditions can be found on our State’s health website www.health.nsw.gov.au or alternatively contact your local GP.
If your child has chicken pox, measles, or mumps or is suspected of having any infectious illness please contact the school immediately. This will allow the school to assess the probable contact and therefore exposure of our student to the disease. Notification can then be given to the parents and medical specialists.
As a school community we value your support in relation to the wellbeing of all our students. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Subject and Excursion fees
Just a reminder that all subject and excursion fees are due to be paid in full today. Thank you to the many families who have cleared their accounts or who are making regular payments. Please note that the SAPSS New Zealand Band Tour is the only item that is not due at this time.
Uniform 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/purchasing items for 2023:
- Four uniform items have been removed from the Code of Presentation and thus cannot be worn in 2023.
- old style sport shorts;
- tracksuits without the MacKillop logo;
- white socks with the formal uniform; and
- white sport socks (with teal band).
- To be particularly vigilant when purchasing shoes:
- shoes must be plain (no obvious logos), all black, all leather (no rubber toes), polishable lace-up shoes;
- sport shoes must be lace-up jogger or cross trainer style suitable for sport.
- sport shoes must have arch and heel support.
- 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.
Year 7-11 Academic & Service Awards
A special occasion for our students is the Year 7-11 Academic & Service Awards Ceremony, which is traditionally held in Term 4 at MacKillop College. This is an opportunity to acknowledge students who have excelled in academic and cultural areas. These students receive a trophy or a book voucher as a symbol of their involvement and achievement in a particular area.
It has become a tradition that these awards are sponsored by families or businesses in our College community. Sponsors will be acknowledged in the program booklet and in the College newsletter. If you are interested in sponsoring an award we would love to hear from you. Your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated. The cost of the sponsorship is $30.00 per award.
If you are in a position to assist, please contact Alex Bamford at the main College office on 6583 2632 or alexandra.bamford@lism.catholic.edu.au
Thank you in anticipation.
Cath Eichmann
Principal
St Agnes Parish Christmas Mass Times
Vaping: Information & Awareness
Vaping is on the rise in Australia and has become popular amongst teenagers and young adults. Alarmingly, a recent study has also shown that there is an increase in the number of primary school-aged children who are experimenting with vapes. There are many misconceptions about vapes being fairly harmless and that vapes in Australia do not contain nicotine.
We hope parents and carers use these helpful resources to:
- learn the facts about e-cigarettes and vaping;
- recognise what a vape looks like;
- understand why vaping is attractive to young people; and
- engage in positive conversations at home.
By working in partnership we hope to support our young people to make healthy choices.
Please watch this informative 2 minute video which provides some key information about vaping and e-cigarettes.
Key Information
- Vaping is the act of smoking e-cigarettes or ‘vapes’ that can look like metallic pens, USBs and other hand-held systems;
- Vapes use cartridges filled with liquids, which typically contain nicotine, artificial flavouring, and various chemicals which can be harmful to the developing body;
- Research shows that 1 in 5 young people have vaped and nearly 80% of young people say it is easy to get a vape illegally at a shop or online;
- Nicotine is especially addictive for young brains. It can cause long-lasting negative effects on brain development and can include impaired attention, learning, memory and changes in mood;
- You can find out more about vaping from NSW Health.
Conversation Starters at Home
Start conversations about vaping with your child early. You could consider the following questions or conversation starters:
- Are a lot of kids vaping at your school? Are your friends vaping? Be sure you don’t react, just listen;
- What do you think about vaping?
You may hear your child say that vaping is harmless. It’s important to share some good information with your child about the impacts of vaping.
- Do you know what is in vapes?
Share with them that they’ve tested vapes and they do not contain only water vapor and flavouring. Vapes can contain very high levels of nicotine and other toxic chemicals that damage lungs.
Why is it attractive?
Young people can be drawn to vaping for a number of different reasons including peer pressure, accessibility and affordability, the belief that vaping is harmless and curiosity. Sometimes a family member who vapes can also influence children and young people to try vaping. This short video provides some insights into why vaping is attractive to young people and is important viewing before parents and carers use the conversation starters at home.
Conversation starters
Be ready to have these conversations with your child with a sense of calmness and interest in what they have to say. Be ready to listen to their responses without jumping in too quickly to correct them. Choose your timing wisely, perhaps during a relaxed moment at home, when driving somewhere together, or when no other stress or distractions are present.
- Why do you think more children and teens are vaping? Listen to understand. Your child may mention one of the reasons listed above or have another This conversation starter opens the door to healthy dialogue.
- Could you confidently say no if you were offered a vape? How could you do this? Help your young person create an ‘exit plan’ if they are offered a vape.
- How do you think the person offering you the vape would react to you saying no? How might that make you feel about this friendship?
Now might be a good time to talk about what your child values in their friends.
Peer pressure can be powerful, so coming up with realistic action steps and practising them together in a safe environment will prepare and empower your child to make good choices when it matters. Remind them that not everyone is vaping. There are many young people making healthy choices to say no.
How to support my child if they are vaping
Although advertising and peers can heavily influence your teen’s decisions, the impact you have as a parent carries enormous weight. Research has found that parental involvement and a positive outlook can make a significant difference in healthy decision making, both now and in the future.
- Take a health approach: If you discover that your teen is vaping, address it as you would any other risk to your child’s health. Try to resist the urge to lecture, yell or punish your child. It is important to keep the lines of communication open and show your child that you are concerned about their health and safety. Although purchasing vapes containing nicotine without a prescription is illegal in Australia, many vapes labelled as nicotine-free do contain nicotine. Your child may need support to stop vaping as nicotine is very addictive. The more your child vapes, the more both the brain and body will get used to having nicotine, and the harder it is to go without it. When a person stops vaping, even for a short period, they can experience withdrawal, including strong cravings, irritability, fatigue, headache, sleeplessness and difficulty concentrating.
- Conversation starters: Make sure your child recognises how much you care about them and that the conversation is coming from a place of unconditional love, support and concern for their wellbeing. Use the conversation starters below to understand if your child may be continuing to vaping to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Do you continue to vape even though you want to stop or think it’s hurting you in some way? Do you feel anxious or irritable when you want to use your vape but can’t? Do thoughts about vaping interrupt you when you are focused on other activities? Do you vape at school? How often? Have you ever tried to stop vaping but couldn’t? Do you feel like you have lost control over your vaping?
- Support to quit vaping: Read this helpfulinfographic for suggestions about how to support your child to quit vaping. (Source: smokefree.gov & NSW Health TobaccoFree)
2023 Requisites
Please find below for your convenience, Years 8 - 11 Requisites for 2023.
Year 7
As we journey through the final two weeks of Term, Year 7 are expected to continue to maximise the learning opportunities offered during the school day; applying themselves in the classroom, completing evidence of learning to the best of their ability, as well as maintaining positive relationships with staff and peers founded on respect.
I call on carers to reinforce to their son or daughter the importance of maintaining high standards of presentation, preparation for class, and behaviour. We want them to finish the year proudly, being the best version of themselves.
Extended PC
Our Year 7 SRC has already proven impressive in their leadership skills. Keen to connect Year 7 students in a spirit of fun and learning, they collaborated and designed a Year 7 trivia competition for Year 7 in Extended PC last week. The happiness and engagement of students were audible from outside classrooms! Thanks to Ziva Balkin, Ebony Hassett, Ben Spencer and Jesse Taylor for their wonderful initiative and careful preparation in bringing our cohort together - we all learned something new and enjoyed this activity!
Christmas Hampers
Thank you to our Year 7 families for supporting your child’s donation to their PC Christmas Hamper. These hampers are offered to families of St Agnes' Parish who have experienced difficulties over the past year, such as poor health, a death in the family, financial hardship or other stressful circumstances.
To give freely and generously to others is truly one of the greatest virtues we can teach our young people; as we know, a sign of good character is not what we have, but what we give away.
Donations to the Christmas Hampers are welcomed up to Tuesday, 6 December when they will then be wrapped and prepared for distribution.
Upcoming Community Day
Our school theme for Year 7 has been belonging, recognising the importance of every student’s need to feel part of the MacKillop community in their transitional year to high school.
The College has planned a pastoral day for Monday, 12 December where Year 7 students will have the opportunity to build positive relationships with staff and peers, and share time with their friends in an experience off the school site.
This compulsory school day is an opportunity for students to come together as a year group. Please look out for details in your email and complete the permission form for your child as soon as possible.
Congratulations
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Ebony Hassett, Lucas Merrick, James Owen, Keegan Pope and Jack Shuttleworth.
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Zeke Anderson, Dasha Cressida Bayot, Ethan Carey, Bryson Galleghan, Amarlie Gregory, Olivia Gridley, Ebony Hassett, Gracie Huxley, Amber McIlroy, Alyssa McNamara, Declan McWhirter, Lucas Merrick, Zoe Mizzi, James Owen, Neha Philip, Keegan Pope, Jack Shuttleworth, Kate Thompson and Jesse Taylor.
Nicole O’Connell
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 8
Over the last couple of weeks I have been in many classes seeing some of the fantastic things taking place with students engaged in learning. This was a great reminder of the reason why we are here at MacKillop College. We are all here to learn and make the most out of what is on offer at the college. As we draw closer to the end of year its more important than ever to “finish strong” and put in that little bit extra! From catching up on work at lunch to adding the final touches to your assessment task, in the end every little bit counts.
Extended PC
Students had a blast enjoying their last Extended PC for the Year. The PC classrooms were filled with laughter and smiling faces. It was such a pleasure to walk around to each group and experience the joy and happiness of the Year 8 group. The Christmas vibe was in the air with large amounts of PC groups decorating their rooms with tinsel and hand crafting Christmas decorations. How lucky we are to be a part of the MacKillop community.
Christmas Hampers
This year, MacKillop College will again provide Christmas hampers as part of the St Agnes' Christmas Hamper Collection. These hampers are offered to families who have experienced difficulties over the past year, such as poor health, a death in the family, financial hardship or other stressful circumstances.
All students at MacKillop have been given information by their PC teacher regarding the changes to the hamper items that we are collecting this year. We are asking families to assist their children's PC's by providing the donations they have been asked for, which will help to build these amazing gifts that we contribute to our local community each year.
Thank you all for your ongoing support with this cause.
Congratulations
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Pastoral Coordinator’s Award: Mitchell Holding (x2) and Trinity Schein.
Greg Finney
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 9
Extended PC Challenge
Year 9 smashed the Extended PC challenge last week. They really got involved and had a great time.
The challenge took them all around the College. When they arrived at a location they had to complete a challenge to receive the clue to the next location. Challenges included solving maths problems, target practice with paper balls, puzzles, shooting hoops and team building activities. We then met in the Theatre for our Year meeting.
Mountain Biking
The mountain bikers have been showing off their skills at the pump track during sport.
Daniel O’Dell
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 10
Upcoming Events
The final week of school events for Year 10:
Monday: Normal Classes
Tuesday: Normal Classes
Wednesday
- 9:15am - 10:15am, Christmas Mass
- 11:30am - 1:00pm, Years 7 - 11 Major Awards
- 2:15pm - 3:13pm, Year 10 Awards
Thursday: Endless Summer at Pilot Beach and final day of school for 2022
Congratulations
Congratulations to Lara Inman who has received a Silver Principal’s Award, and three Leader of Pastoral Care Awards.
Have a great week.
David Kennedy
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 11
The SRC created a morning full of fun last week during Extended PC with a Scavenger Hunt. Each PC had to solve a variety of clues and then challenges in a race style event, with PC 17 coming out as the easy winners. Thank you to the SRC who yet again demonstrated their leadership skills.
Year 11 students spent the morning together on Thursday catching up and checking in with each other while enjoying egg and bacon rolls. This was a valuable time to strengthen relationships with each other and have a final get together before exams start next week. Thank you to Jodie Duck in the canteen for organising all the food and the BBQ crew made up of Year 11 boys for cooking up a feast.
PC Volleyball has finally started up again now that the HSC exams are over and the Lochinvar Centre is free to play. There was a lot of fun and laughter coming from the Lochinvar with PC 17 winning the first game and PC 8 running away with game two.
Exam week will take place next week starting on Monday. Students will be able to access a Flexible Timetable which means they only need to be at school when they have an exam. Students are advised to ensure they are at school at least 15 minutes before each exam and have everything they will need for the exam as they will not be allowed to borrow any equipment during the exam. If a student is unwell for an exam and does not attend they will be required to hand in an Assessment Variation Form with a Doctor’s Certificate.
Mosese Fineanganofo visited Mrs Bailey's Year 7 History class on Tuesday to educate students on his experience of Tongan culture. The students are studying a unit on Polynesia and loved hearing from Mosese about Tongan beliefs, lifestyle, culture and language. What an amazing role model Mosese is to our younger students who are now all the wiser about our current area of study thanks to his time with us.
Malo 'aupito (thank you) Mosese
Nicole Bailey
Assistant Leader of Learning HSIE
Tracey Bewicke
Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care
Reminder from Busways
Getting to school by bus in 2023
Will your child be catching the bus to school in 2023? Applications are now open for a Bus Travel Pass. As it’s a busy time of year, we highly recommend you make this application before the end of Term 4. It’s also good to check the bus timetable to make your child’s journey to school as easy as possible.
Here is how it works:
Bus passes
All students catching the bus in 2023 will need a school travel pass. Under the School Student Transport Scheme, eligible students can apply for free or subsided travel between home and school. For more information about the School Student Transport Scheme and how to apply for a school travel pass, visit https://apps.transport.nsw.
Bus timetables
Busways is the school bus operator that runs your schools’ bus services. To find your child’s school bus timetable visit the Busways website by using the following steps:
1. Go to busways.com.au/nsw
2. Click on ‘school services’ in the navigation bar and then proceed to ‘school timetables’
3. Enter the school’s name in the field that says ‘enter a school name’
4. Select the school’s name and the timetable should open on your device. If you are unable to find or search for the school’s name, use the drop-down menus on the same web page to find the school.
5. Once the timetable is opened, you will be able to identify which school bus services are available in your area for your child to use.
Wellbeing
Maths in Trade Day @ Newman Senior Technical College
On Thursday last week, Newman Senior Technical College hosted an enthusiastic group of potential Maths in Trade students. A group of 20 Year 8 MacKillop students attended, accompanied by Warren Lorger and Gab Ashe.
The Year 8 students designed and constructed a succulent planter made of recycled pallet timber, which they planted with succulent cuttings. They utilised many mathematical skills including scale drawing, area, volume, surface area and measurement. They also used Newman’s furniture workshop to build, sand and oil their projects.
The students enjoyed the day and should be congratulated on their positive attitude and fine craftsmanship. It was a great opportunity for these students to access the wonderful facilities on offer at Newman while also considering the importance of mathematics in careers such as builders, carpenters, tilers and concreters.
A big thank you also goes to Bunnings and Mitre 10 who donated sample bags and prizes for the day, and also to Wendy Schumann and Joe Ryan for coordinating the event.
Lisa Kable
Leader of Wellbeing
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.
Sport | Event | Date |
Term 1 2023 | ||
Swimming | MacKillop College Junior Swimming Carnval | 15 February |
Swimming | MacKillop College Senior Swimming Carnval | 16 February |
Cross Country | MacKillop College Cross Country Carnval | 14 March |
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.
Sport | Event | Date of event | Registration Closing date |
Touch Football | Individual Touch Football Trials – Coffs Harbour TBC | 21 February 2023 | 10 February 2023 |
Swimming | Swimming Carnival – Kempsey | 2 March 2023 | 24 February 2023 |
Football (soccer) | Opens Boys & Girls – Ballina | 7 March 2023 | 17 February 2023 |
Rugby League | Opens & U15 Boys & U16 Girls – Ballina | 7 March 2023 | 17 February 2023 |
Tennis | Diocesan Tennis Championships – Tweed Heads TBC | 10 March 2023 | 17 February 2023 |
Rugby League | Northern Selections Training U15 & Opens boys and U16 Girls – South West Rocks | 28 March 2023 | |
Rugby League | Northern Selections Trials U15 & Opens boys and U16 Girls – South West Rocks | 28 March 2023 | |
Football (soccer) | Opens – Kempsey | 4 April 2023 | 10 March 2023 |
Basketball | Opens – Coffs Harbour | 5 April 2023 | 9 March 2023 |
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
Sport | Event | Date of event |
Cricket | Cricket Boys Opens – Riverwood | 20 & 21 February 2023 |
Softball | Softball – Stanhope Gardens | 28 February 2023 |
Tennis | Tennis – Parramatta | 6 March 2023 |
Baseball | Baseball – Castle Glen | 7 March 2023 |
Water Polo | Water Polo – Ryde | 13 March 2023 |
Golf | Golf – Macquarie Links | 14 March 2023 |
Swimming & Diving | Swimming & Diving | 31 March 2023 |
Touch Football | Touch Football Championships – Wagga Wagga | 3 & 4 April 2023 |
NSW All Schools – Events
The selection for these events are a result of the NSWCCC events.
Sport | Event | Date of event |
Triathlon | Triathlon - Penrith | 23 & 24 February 2023 |
Cricket | Cricket – Bathurst | 20 – 22 March 2023 |
Baseball | Baseball | 28 March 2023 |
Tennis | Tennis – Bathurst | 27 & 28 March 2023 |
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
Christmas fundraiser
Headspace Support
Canteen Update
Monday 5 December
Jodie Burge
Tuesday 6 December
Jodie Buttsworth
Wednesday 7 December
Peta Clancy & Kate Perkins
Thursday 8 December
Heather Sheers & Chris Jourdant
Friday 9 December
Mayo Brumby & help please
Monday 12 December
Vanessa AIrd & Nicole Galea
Tuesday 13 December
Emily Duffy & Jenny Murray
Wednesday 14 December
Ros Brockhurst & Danielle Sen Gupta
Thursday 15 December
No help needed
Friday 16 December
No help needed
Due to significant price increases from suppliers over the last six months, we have had to increase our prices on some items. Please see the price list attached below for current pricing.
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.
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
We are in need of some parent assistance for canteen. For more information and requirements on volunteering in the Canteen, or if you are able to volunteer, please follow this link.
Homework Hubs
Maths Tutorials
Tuesday 7.45am-8.30am and Friday 7.45am-8.30am
Room 12 Main College with Elizabeth Robertson