Upcoming Events

Principal's Update

COMPASS

• What can you see daily on your Compass portal? 

Stay in touch with your child’s journey at school by being able to view

• Merits: see when your child is being recognised for their effort and involvement
• Uniform chronicle: see when your child hasn’t complied with the College Code of Presentation so that you can help them to fix their discrepancy
• Minor Behaviour Chronicle: see when your child has not met the College Code of Expectations so that you can have a chat about how they can improve
  
  
• Accessing the NEWSLETTER:

The fortnightly College newsletter will be placed on the Compass News feed. Make sure to have your push notifications on to receive these important news feed items, event notifications and other important information as they happen. 

• Parent feedback welcome:

If you have feedback on Compass please email the College on pmac@lism.catholic.edu.au

We realise there are still teething problems and areas we need to work on. Please be considerate and respectful of Office and Admin staff when working through concerns. 

• Consenting to events on time and payment plan option: 

All Events have a due date to which parents must consent and pay for the event. Currently, the event date is being pushed back to allow parents to have enough time to provide consent. All parents must have access to Compass to view the consent. If they are unable to pay online due to technical issues only, the option to pay at the Office or over the phone is available with the paper version consent form to be handed in with payment. From Week 6 the event due dates will not change. 

Payment plans will be on offer for events that are $100 or over. These payments will be weekly. 

Parents are encouraged to have push notifications active on the app to ensure that no events have been missed after the due date for consent and payment. 

Events that are nil cost may still require consent if the students are leaving the College grounds or outside normal class times. Parents must provide this on Compass. 

If the parent has not given consent and payment made on the due date they will be unable to attend the event. 

• Event payments and split families:

 As we move to payment on consent of events it is the parent who consents responsibility to pay the full cost of the event and work with the other parent re. Sharing consent/payment across various events. 

It is not the College’s responsibility to send two separate event consent forms to the same student’s parents, nor to split every cost. The College will split costs for any event over $50 if requested. 

• Attendance notes:

Attendance notes must be completed on Compass within 7 days or the parent needs to contact the school to advise them of the reason for absence. 

Celebration of Excellence 2023 Award Sponsorship

Another year is fast approaching its end for our 2023 HSC students and we are preparing for our Celebration of Excellence which is being held on 20 September.

Students who have excelled in academic and cultural areas receive a trophy or gift voucher in recognition of their involvement and achievement in a particular area. Each award sponsorship is $50. An invoice can be provided and sponsors are acknowledged on our official program as well as in the College newsletter.

We would like to allow any businesses or families to sponsor one of the Major Awards given to our HSC students during this event, celebrating their many achievements.

Thank you to those families and businesses who have previously sponsored awards.  Your ongoing support is invaluable to making the occasion memorable for all.

Please contact Jenna O'Brien at 6583 2632 or via jenna.obrien@lism.catholic.edu.au if you are interested in Award sponsorship.

eSafety Parent Webinar

Cath Eichmann
Principal

Assistant Principal, Learning and Teaching

Years 7-11 Learning Conversations - now open in Compass

On Monday 21 August (Week 6) we will be holding a Learning Conversations evening in the College Hall on the junior site from 4.00-7.30 pm for families with children in Years 7-11.

This is an opportunity for parents to put a face to the name of their child’s teachers and share any knowledge that they feel would strengthen our partnership.

As per all conversations in relation to our students’ learning, we encourage your child to also attend the evening. These interviews are one part of the very important process of our students gaining the most from their schooling and provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to meet to ensure open and collaborative communication which assists students not only in their learning but in their growth as young men and women.

Daniel Blackman, Leader of Inclusion and Diversity, will also be available if you wish to book an appointment (20 minute timeslots). He can discuss any diagnosis your child may have and the options for in-class adjustments, intervention programs or co-curricular activities.

In addition to class teachers, Jo Pilgrim, our Leader of Careers and Pathways will be available for Careers discussions with Years 9, 10 and 11 students only (10 minute timeslots).

Please note we will be using COMPASS as our platform to make bookings. These will close on Friday, 18 August.

Instructions on how to use the Conference Booking section for both a desktop or phone can be found in the following links:

Video - How to make a Learning Conversations Booking

Conferences - Making a Booking

Conferences - Making a Booking on Mobile App

Interviews are strictly 5 minutes and spaces are limited. If you require more time, please contact teachers directly to make alternative arrangements.

If these dates do not suit you, or your child’s teacher is not available, I encourage you to make contact (by phone or email) with your child’s teachers.

Christine Harmer
Assistant Principal, Learning and Teaching

Assistant Principal, Mission

The Feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop (8 August)

She lived her life centred on love of the Lord Jesus and trust in Divine providence, knowing that, with God, all things are possible…

Mary MacKillop's life offers invaluable lessons that continue to resonate today. Her unyielding commitment to education underscores the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of making education accessible to all, especially marginalized communities. Her dedication to social justice serves as a reminder of the need to advocate for equality and stand up against injustice, even in the face of adversity.

Mary's resilience in the face of challenges teaches us the significance of perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles through determination and faith. Her emphasis on community collaboration and support highlights the strength that comes from working together to create positive change.

Furthermore, Mary's willingness to question and challenge authority demonstrates the importance of critical thinking and a willingness to challenge the status quo for the betterment of society. Her humility and selflessness remind us of the impact of service to others and the fulfilment that comes from putting the needs of the community above personal gain.

In essence, Mary MacKillop's life exemplifies the values of faith, education, social justice, resilience, community, and humility. Her legacy encourages us to be proactive in our efforts to make a positive difference in the world, reminding us that small actions can lead to profound and lasting impact.

Peter Murphy
Assistant Principal, Mission

Wellbeing

Effective Learners are always prepared

So many of our students, teachers and parents have celebrated the successes of our students and their efforts in the classroom. The Semester 1 reports, Semester 1 awards and the large number of merits that can now be issued and viewed on Compass are all evidence of the learning success and effort of our students. I am sure that this has led to a number of positive conversations at home over the dinner table.

On the flip side, there are some students who are looking for ways to improve in the classroom setting. The student behaviour data we have recently accessed via Compass indicates that there are a number of students who are coming to school without the required equipment and this poses a number of problems. Not having the correct equipment does not allow students to fully engage in each lesson and therefore does not optimise the learning environment. Additionally, there is a strong correlation with an unprepared learner and poor behaviour choices.

Organisation of our students is something they need to learn and develop. It is a skill. As teachers and parents, there are a number of ways we can assist to teach the skill of organisation. Some ideas that can be implemented at home include:

• assist your child in developing a routine of packing and unpacking their school bag each day;
• encourage the use of the diary or planner;
• check their diary and schedule on Compass regularly;
• have a copy of their timetable on display in their bedroom;
• engage regularly in conversation about what they have on the next day;
• touch base each term to check they have the resources needed for school eg pens, pencils, calculator etc; and
• when school supplies are broken or lost, prioritise fixing or replacing them to show the child that they are important.

Warren Lorger
Leader of Wellbeing – Behaviour Support

St Agnes Parish Rock Youth Group

What’s your favourite Disney Movie?
 Classic Disney? Marvel? Star Wars?

This Sunday you decide what movie we watch, check out our story this week and let us know.

Bring your favourite movie snacks and some friends for a good old-fashioned movie night!

• St Agnes’ Catholic Parish Hall
• Sunday, 13 August (6:00pm-8:00pm)
• $5 for dinner

Support, Trust and Understanding Program

STU is a two hour workshop specifically designed for parents and carers to build skills to support their tween, teen or twenty-something who is struggling with their mental health.

It equips parents and carers to support their child, their family and themselves until they can get into appropriate professional services.

Designed by two mums - a counsellor and a university lecturer - with 9 children between them, STU is grounded in evidence based research and infused with practical exercises, activities and ongoing support.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/support-trust-understanding-navigating-teen-mental-health-tickets-686157233757

Attendance

Year 7

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Samrina Adhikari, Mira Arnold, Annabelle Ashton, Liam Ayres, Grace Byrne, Sarah Chamberlin, Harrison Ebbs, Amy Fitzgerald, Lucy Ford, Ruby Ford, Iestyn Gallagher, Sienna Goldie, Isaac Green, Bianca Harrison, Harrison Healey, Sam Hewens, Tia Judge, Talia Kapila, Milla Kelly, Tobi Lawler, Indy Lorger, Abby Moloney, Grace Morris, Maya Pryce-Boylan, Xavier Reichelt, Chloe Ribot De Bressac, Nikki Seears, Tilly Sinclair, Sophia Sivell, Andrew Slavin, Tom Sharman, Tahlia Thompson, Mackenzie Trimmer and Jaysen Wei.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Mikayla Adams, Samrina Adhikari (x2), Baxter Allison, Jasmine Anastas, Evelyn Archibald, Mira Arnold (x2), Tahlia Arnold, Charlton Arrighi, Annabelle Ashton (x3), Liam Ayres (x2), Milana Baker, Jonah Barnes, Kayla Bayer, Jacob Bell, Charlie Bryant, Lachlan Bryant, Alyra Buckley, Sienna Button (x2), Isaac Buttsworth, Grace Byrne, Millie Byrne, Javier Carle (x2), Georgie Carlton, Lily Castiglioni, Sarah Chamberlain (x2), Sonnie Chippendale, Callum Clancy, Alex Clarke (x2), Ryan Clarke, Grace Collins, Ryder Colthorpe, Emily Cook, Aaron Cotovich, Ruby Cramp, Kaylie Dawson, Tyler Dickson, Noah Dowd, Lila Duncan (x2), James Dwyer, Harrison Ebbs (x3), Evie Evans, Layla Fel (x2), Amy Fitzgerald (x3), Bethany Folkes, Lucy Ford (x2), Ruby Ford, Iestyn Gallagher (x3), Riley Garel, Lucy Giudicelli, Sienna Goldie (x2), Maeve Gornall (x2), Joshua Gray (x2), Maddyx Gray, Isaac Green (x2), Lachlan Guy, Evie Hall (x2), Samuel Hancock, Bianca Harrison (x3), Matisse Hazelton-Kelly (x2), Harrison Healey (x2), Sam Hewens, Leela Hill, Mia Hodge, Josette Hoffman (x2), Wilson Huang, Gia Hudson (x2), Lucia Hurdle, Max Jordan, Tia Judge, Talia Kapila, Milla Kelly (x2), Siena King, Amelia Konstantas, Oliver Laundry, Tobi Lawler (x2), Shannon Lee lusung (x2), Patrick Leman, Joshua Lloyd, Indy Lorger (x3), Alexander Madeley, Nicholas Maetzig, Isla McNeil, Aiden Miles (x2), Jeremy Mills (x2), Blake Mitchell, Abby Moloney, Grace Morris (x2), Georgie Mulder, Taylor Munday, Oliver Parker, Livia Pelley, Amelia Pettitt, Edie Porter, Maya Pryce-Boylan, Xavier Pye, Xavier Reichelt (x3), Chloe Ribot De Bressac, Addison Rolfe, Remi Rooney (x2), Tobias Rowlatt, Jaye Rutishauser, Liam Ryals (x2), Fallon Ryan, Zali Santos, Jakob Schmidt, Nikki Seears (x2), Lalita Sen Gupta, Tom Sharman, Tilly Sinclair, Madison Sivell, Sophia Sivell (x2), Andrew Slavin (x3), Maxine Smith, Tora Smith (x2), Annalise Southwell, Georgia Stapley, Tahlia Sutherland, Mark Temple (x2), Tyler Temporale (x2), Tahlia Thompson (x2), Evie Thomson, Troy Towers, Mackenzie Trimmer (x2), Aleisha Van Lint, Aria Varghese (x2), Nickson Vatalidis, Ella Walker, Archie Wallace, Melody Waller, Lachlan Walters, Eve Washburn (x2), Jaysen Wei (x3), Georgia White, Isabella White (x2), Annabelle Wickham, Maya Williams, Ruby Williams, Sophia Wilmot and Ruby Winters.

Adam O’Brien
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 8

The College Code of Behaviour Expectations provides a clear set of behaviours, expected of all, to enable self and others to thrive. Living the Code of Behaviour Expectations is central to the pastoral care and wellbeing of all at MacKillop College. 

Compass data has alerted three areas needing attention to ensure a positive environment of learning:

• Equipment - being able to learn requires students to be equipped with all the necessary resources. All students are required to bring and maintain a charged device, workbook, pens, calculator and school diary each day;

• Homework - allocating time to independently apply concepts, practise skills, plan and revise is part of the learning process. Students are required to record homework tasks in their school diary and allocate time to complete work in preparation for the next lesson; and

• Respect - learning is enabled in an environment where there is respect for all. Students are expected to follow staff instructions and work cooperatively with both staff and peers so that all students can access and focus on developing their knowledge and skills.

If your child’s Compass Profile alerts them to attend to these matters, please reinforce the benefits of setting themselves up for success in each lesson and discuss with them ways to help them maximise their learning. If your child requires further support from the College, please contact the PC or class teacher or me for assistance.

Mary MacKillop Feast Day

Each year we celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia's beloved first saint and patron saint of our school. St Mary MacKillop's impact on Australian education was remarkable. She was a trailblazer and a leader who passionately advocated for the holistic Catholic education of children in rural areas and opened a door of hope into the future for them and their families teaching the value of justice, hope, collaboration, compassion and respect. Mary continues to be a source of great inspiration across the College. Year 8 make Mary’s words our theme for the year: "Find happiness in making others happy”.

To honour her legacy, our school community varies from routine to celebrate Mary MacKillop’s Feast Day next Tuesday, 15 August. The day begins with a liturgy and for the remainder of the day, students join in the various activities being run, similar to a festival-like atmosphere.

This is a compulsory school day and promises to be a lot of fun.

Year 8 Camp

Yesterday, we launched the nature of the Year 8 Camp to students at our Year Assembly. 

Our annual compulsory Year 8 Camp will be held Term 4, 30 October – 2 November. We will be spending four days and three nights at South West Rocks to expand on, and put into practice, the learning in the PDHPE Outdoor Recreation unit.

In the coming weeks, students will be asked to form tent/food groups for the camp. Each group will need to be able to provide a tent and esky to accommodate the members. Further information will be disseminated during PDHPE lessons and more information on what to bring will be provided closer to the camp date. 

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Diarmuid Barltrop, Paige Goldie, Patrick Green, Camille Hostettler, Eli Hudson, Tori McGrath, Zoe Mizzi, Neha Philip, Charlie Power, Marley Thick, Aidan Wadwell and Daniel Zhong.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Eliana Ballard, Diarmuid Barltrop, Khye Bibby, Zachary Bibel, Freya Briggs, Billy Brockhouse, Scarlet Brooke, Samuel Browne, James Bugler, Evie Bullen, Oliver Cairns, Charlie Cameron, Ethan Carey, Samantha Carr (x2), Joe Caruso, Jonathan Choi, Max Choi, Joseph Chung Jun Hock, Finn Cole, Rhyder Collins, Ayla Cross, Flynn Daly, Philippa Eakin, Jasper Eichorn, Matilda Elford (x2), Luke Everson, Peter Field, Charlotte Fitzpatrick, Toby Fraser, Joshua Freeman, Bryson Galleghan, Elijah Geddes, Luca Giddins, Sarah Gleeson, Paige Goldie (x3), Rafferty Gordon, Patrick Green, Olivia Gridley, Ebony Hassett, Evie Hewens, Jackson Hollis, Camille Hostettler (x2), Logan Howard, Eli Hudson, Gracie Huxley, Caitlyn Inman (x2), Madeline Innes, Dylan Keane, Jake Keegan, Rhys Kendal, Lucas Maher, Svat Mashliatin, Tori McGrath (x3), Amber McIlroy, Alyssa McNamara, Declan McWhirter, Angelina Mifsud-Scriven, Darcy Middleton, Zoe Mizzi (x2), Jessica Moore, Lucas Morris, Emiley Murphy, Neha Philip, Noah Pociask, Keegan Pope (x2), Charlie Power (x3), Isabelle Reed (x2), Mylee Roach, Lily Rowlatt, Lacey Ryan, Elijah Schmidt, Jack Shuttleworth, Lara Smith, Benjamin Spencer (x2), Archie Spitzer, Julia Helena Streegan, Ashleigh Strong, Jesse Taylor (x2), Marley Thick (x2), Imogen Thompson, Faith Urquhart, Aidan Wadwell (x2), Summer Waite, Lani Warren (x2), Jaxon Waser, Albie Watson, Sierra Westbrook, William Whicker, Daniel Zhong (x2).

Nicole O’Connell
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 9

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Hailie Attwells, Myles Baker, Cooper Beukers, Olivia Blake, Alexandra Bransdon, Abbie Brennan, Cameron Bullock, Zayne Cloake, Megan Goldie, Willis Jensen, Mitchell McGuinness, Matilda Medlin, Leandre Menelet, Matthew Mizzi (x2), Tully Patterson, Samuel Ramke, Sienna Spicer, Milla Swain, Charlotte Weatherley, Estelle Williams and Lara Woolfe.

Tom Salter
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 10

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Eva Philip who has received a Silver Principal Award.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Jackson Bucci, Isabella Campbell, Ryder Day, Braeden Fuller, Sehtaya Gordon, Fleur Jardine, Heath Kilpatrick, Jarvis Lineham, Noa McNeill, Jake Morgan, Makayla Mott, Eva Philip, Liam Poppleton (x2), Jacob Queripel, Cooper Sheldon and Penelope Sprague.

Daniel O’Dell
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 10 Science Update

Have you ever wondered how your favourite breakfast cereal is made? Or how the medicines society requires are developed? Well, chemical engineers are the masterminds behind these products, working tirelessly to transform raw materials into the final products we use and consume. At the forefront of innovation, chemical engineers also help design new products and are instrumental in addressing the urgent challenge of climate change. By developing and implementing green technologies, they play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions and creating sustainable solutions for our future.

In the first week of the school holidays, Sophia Horan Juzenas (Year 10) attended a work experience program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Chemical Engineering to learn about the work of chemical engineers. Sophia was one of 32 students selected nationwide to participate in the program which is a huge achievement in and of itself. 

Her week consisted of a number of sessions at UNSW with research groups working on topics ranging from water treatment processes to new nanomaterials used for green fuels and pharmaceuticals. She also participated in a design challenge and experienced life as a university student and academic researcher.

Below are some of her experiences, reflections and learnings from her week:

• We learned about polymers (long chains composed of very large molecules, called macromolecules, which can be in a linear, branched or networking structure) and how these different structures result in changes in a material’s properties. We began to look at interfacial polymers and viscoelasticity and followed this with two experiments, one where we made a nylon rope and the other where we made a polymer ball. These experiments were useful as they allowed us to observe the concepts in action.
• We began a design project on EV battery technology, where we learnt about electrochemistry. We used a multimeter for an AA battery and made voltaic cells/piles to measure V (voltage) and I (current). The batteries that we made were quite weak but helped us to understand the general concept.
• We heard about the importance of food science in the process of humanity’s evolution, which was quite interesting. We were briefed on how environments can affect our senses, gustatory and olfactory. The professor also went over the use of STEM cells for food production, eg. steak.
•  Students studying Food Science made a presentation of their experiences in the field so far. They expressed their area of study as exciting and appealing as it involved working with food and nutrition - a large part of our health.
• We continued with the second part of our design project, where we learnt about wet cell chemistry. We were introduced to two types of electrochemical cells which were a Daniell cell and a metal-acid battery. We were also able to explore the difference between a series and a parallel cell. The battery that we created was more complicated than the one from the day before but involved more safety risks. 
• We learned about wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) and the many aspects to be considered in order to effectively and efficiently treat the water, and protect the safety of the neighbourhood, by visiting an underground plant in the middle of Sydney. This location made it difficult for the plant to reuse the waste extracted from the water. Instead, the waste was said to be sent north of Hornsby where it was turned into fertiliser. Odour was controlled through large ventilation systems, which are especially important when the plant is based underground, to protect the health and safety of workers and surrounding citizens. 
• We learned about Power-to-X (PTX), which refers to the processes and technologies designed to convert green renewable energy into clean chemicals which can be used as a fuel for electricity generation. The ‘X’ stands for the energy carrier produced through PTX processes. Most PTX processes utilise catalysts to reduce the energy required for certain reactions, without changing the start or end outcomes. PTX can be applied to many aspects of our daily lives as the energy carriers produced can either be transported, stored or used directly. For example, energy carriers can be used to power an electric vehicle. Overall, PTX is a viable method of addressing renewable energy challenges as it takes advantage of the Earth’s most abundant resources, such as hydrogen ammonia and synthetic hydrocarbons.
• We learned about the contributions of food scientists and chemical engineers when producing commercial food at a large scale, which is hugely important to maintaining the safety and wellbeing of those involved in the production as well as those consuming the produce. Food scientists play a major role in analysing the probiotics and vitamins that a certain product might contain and how these could affect those that receive them. On the other hand, a chemical engineer will advise on the sterilisation techniques taken to preserve foods while also protecting consumers from food-borne diseases. Food scientists and chemical engineers are constantly interacting with each other when producing at large scale to ensure that the products are completely safe for public consumption, as a small change in the manufacturing process could require a change in the sterilisation technique.

Congratulations, Sophia, on your selection in this wonderful program and the learning you have experienced as a result.

Michael Peck
Year 10 Science Extension Teacher

Year 11

Year 11 Mass

Last week, in honour of Mary MacKillop, we celebrated the Year 11 Mass. In the introduction to the Mass, Sally Temple challenged Year 11 to find inspiration in Mary MacKillop’s words: “Never see a need without doing something about it”. She asked that our Patron Saint be an example to us all, and stir in us a desire to lend a helping hand to each other, members of our small school community and others in our broader community.

Thank you to Father Roland, who celebrated the Mass with us, as well as all the students who gave of their time and energy to bring the Mass to others:

The “Vibe”

This week I spoke to Year 11 about the current “vibe” in our year group. It’s not something I can put my finger on, but it feels as though a few of us have gone off the boil. End of Preliminary Exams are starting in Week 9, giving us only a small amount of time to get ourselves properly prepared. When I say properly prepared, I mean giving ourselves the very best chance to show what we are truly capable of. I challenged Year 11 to get back the energy they need and start to build up again with a renewed focus on their goals and systems.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Emily Galvin, Derani Hitchings, Lara Inman, Harmony Mitchell (x2) and Tayla Schultz.

Bruce Smith
Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 12

HSC Trial Exams

The HSC Trial exams are almost over with the final exams taking place on Monday, 14 August. It has no doubt been a stressful time for most if not all of our Year 12 students and parents. I congratulate our students on their commitment to their studies and organisational skills leading up to and during their Trial Exams.

Mary MacKillop Feast Day Celebrations

Tuesday, 15 August will be our Mary MacKillop Feast Day Celebrations which is an important day for the College. This will be the first day back for Year 12 and is a compulsory day for all students. Students are required to wear their sports uniform to school on the day. All Year 12 students will be having a PC lunch together which will involve a sausage sandwich.

Years 11 and 12 will be holding a Cake Stall for the College during Lunch 1 and all senior students have been asked to contribute cakes/slices/biscuits etc to sell. All money raised will go towards the Mary MacKillop Fund.

The Feast Day will involve a variety of activities including a Liturgy, Talent Show, PC Trivia competition and Scavenger Hunt for the senior students in the afternoon.

School Life After the Trials

As we move closer and closer to the HSC Exams and ultimately the final days of school for our Year 12 students it is important to remember the importance and benefit of attending school every day. Past experience has shown students are better prepared for their HSC Exams if they attend classes every day. Some courses have not yet finished their syllabus content while others will be pushing ahead with revision. Either way, our students will be accessing invaluable support, guidance and expertise from their teachers as they prepare for their final HSC Exams. Attendance at school will be paramount to their success.

Our College Code of Presentation will continue to be an important requirement of all MacKillop College students leading up to and including the HSC exams. It would be greatly appreciated if parents could continue to support the College by ensuring their children are wearing the correct uniform to school each day including footwear, skate shoes are not part of the College uniform and therefore cannot be worn to school. 

Graduation Mass and Celebration of Excellence- Wednesday 20 September

The final week of celebrations for our Year 12 students will take place during Week 10 of this term. Please note the Year 12 Graduation Mass will be held on Wednesday, 20 September at St Agnes’ Parish Church at 9:30am followed by a morning tea for parents and students with the Celebration of Excellence in the College Hall starting at 11:45am. All Year 12 parents and families are invited to both events. More information regarding both events will be communicated in the coming weeks.

Tracey Bewicke
Year 12 Leader of Pastoral Care

Music News

MacKillop College 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

SAPSS New Zealand Tour

During Week 10 of term 2 a number of MacKillop College music students we presented with an incredible opportunity to travel to New Zealand as members of the SAPSS Touring Ensembles that included a concert band, jazz band and choir. These ensembles toured the south island and performed at a number of primary schools and venues. An account of the trip has been provided below by Georgia Ryan and Jiya Jamu.

Georgia: 

Our recent music tour to New Zealand was an experience that filled our hearts with joy and left a lasting impact on all of us. During the tour, we had the incredible opportunity to share our music with primary school students, spreading the joy of music and creating lasting memories. It was a heartwarming experience to witness the smiles on the kids' faces and to see them enjoying the music we shared. Their enthusiasm and happiness were infectious, creating a bond that transcended language and culture. One of the highlights that truly stood out was our time spent at Lake Tekapo. Engaging in activities like ice skating brought us closer together as a group, fostering friendships and unforgettable moments that we'll cherish forever. Perhaps one of the most heartwarming moments was when some of the local students taught us how to sing "Hallelujah" in Māori. The exchange of music and culture was a beautiful testament to the power of shared experiences and connections. It was an incredible way to finish my high school journey and I will forever cherish the memories I made on this trip!

Jiya:

After months of Friday morning rehearsals, the week had come where 72 regional, MacKillop and Newman students got to go to New Zealand. This was an experience to never forget as we began our music tour around the South Island of New Zealand. From fairy tale mountains capped with snow to the shimmering lakes of Tēkapo, New Zealand took our breath away. Not only did we get to perform to a multitude of eager New Zealand students who joined in, singing Ghostbusters with the incredible band and dancing along to Made you look by the choir. We were enraptured by the beautiful Māori culture and a bunch of exhilarating activities which will forever be in our hearts. From singing competitions on jet skis, lots of ice skating, swimming and exploring to workshops learning how to sing Hallelujah in Maōri, this tour has now become an experience all of us will never forget, making new connections and learning to love music even more every day. We learnt the beauty and strength of music and how it can bring people together in a way nothing else can through our wonderful New Zealand audience. 

Co-curricular Performing Arts Showcase

Congratulations to all student performers at the annual Co-Curricular Performing Arts Showcase staged in the MacKillop College Theatre on Thursday 27th July. The evening was a huge success! It was wonderful to see so many students sharing their performing talents with an appreciative audience. The Showcase featured the following ensembles: concert band, collective praise band & singers, vocal ensemble, pop choir, string ensemble, senior percussion ensemble, year 7 drama group, year 7 & 8 dance group, year 9 & 10 dance group, SAPS Junior Drumline. Well done to all student performers and thank you to all ensemble directors for their tireless efforts in rehearsing and supporting our students.

Links & Forms

Music Ensemble Sign Up Form 2023

Music Ensemble Shirt Order Form 2023

Music Tuition Request Form 2023

Instrument Rental Agreement 2023

Co-curricular Music Google Classroom

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

Upcoming Events

Feast Day Mass

• Tuesday 15 August - College Hall, Period 1, Collective Praise band & Singers.

SAPPS Night of Drums & Percussion

• Wednesday, 16 August, MacKillop College MPC (Junior Campus), 4:00pm - 5:30pm

SAPSS Drumline Tour

• Thursday 17 August - Sunday 20 August, Gold Coast.

Youth and Family Mass

• Sunday 20 August - St Agnes Parish Church, 4:15pm - 6:15pm, Collective Praise band & Singers.

Junior Music Recital

• Thursday 24 August - College Theatre, 6:00pm - 7:30pm, selected ensembles and junior soloists from the tuition program.

Year 8 Mass

• Thursday 31 August - St Agnes Parish Church, 4:15pm - 6:15pm, Collective Praise band & Singers.

Robert Denham
Leader of Co-Curricular Music

Sport Update

Year 7 & 8 Sport Term 3

Year 9 & 10 Sport Term 3

MacKillop College Sport Reports

MNC Rugby 7s (Boys)

It was a very successful for day the MacKillop Blue U14s Rugby Union team who won all of their games and ran out eventual winners of the 10-team gala day held at Stuarts Park. This was highlighted by beating Bishop Druitt College in the final 33-5 thanks to a four-try performance from Rafferty Gordon. The team put in some excellent performances during the day that displayed great teamwork, commitment and ultimately played all of their games in the right spirit. All of the players are to be congratulated for performing their roles diligently for the benefit of the team.

Some standout performances on the day were Taj Davis, Blaze Colthorpe, Peter Field, Eli Hudson and Quinn Hancock for their steely defence in the middle of the field, Jack McGrath, Zeke Anderson, Joey Thompson and Rafferty Gordon for their skilful passing and game management, and Jude Vasilescu and James Bugler for their speed out wide. Lastly, Stirling Wickham had a stellar day scoring 9 tries in four games.

Thank you to the boys for a fantastic day! MVP: Stirling Wickham

Dave Kennedy (Coach)

Representative Sport, Upcoming Events and Registration

All registrations for MacKillop College Representative Sport teams are completed by;

1. Logging into the school Moodle page (Chrome browser).
2. Click on the Student Links tab on the left-hand side
3. Click on the Representative Sports registrations link
4. 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.  Sports currently open for registration are;

• Rugby 7s

MacKillop College Events

Lismore Diocesan Events

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 the link below to register for the sports.

NSWCCC & NSW All Schools Events and Registration

Students MUST be registered for the event with parent and Principal or Leader of Sport approval.

Registration is through the CSNSW.sport portal. Details on how to register – Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations >>

Please note that the NSWCCC Sport registrations for individual nominations for 2023 selections are open for the following trials:

For further information, go to the CSNSW Sport website Sport pages. https://csnsw.sport/

Community Sport

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

Canteen Update

To all QKR users please be vigilant when ordering. Cut off time is 8am. Orders placed after 8am are processed for the following day.
Many orders are placed for the wrong day ensuing valuable serving time is lost looking for the order.
If your child is not at school and has ordered online please contact the school to cancel the order.

Monday 14 August
Vanessa Aird  
Trish Carr (Lunch 1)
Kim Goldie (Lunch 2)

Tuesday 15 August
No helpers needed

Wednesday 16 August
Bec Eakin & Sarah Dahalenberg

Thursday 17 August
Amanda Ayres & Noeline Rooney

Friday 18 August
No helpers needed

Monday 21 August
Trish Carr
Amanda Lorger (Lunch 2)

Tuesday 22 August
Anthea Romer & Elisabeth Jardine

Wednesday 23 August
Jackie Zimmerman & Amelia Browne

Thursday 24 August
Sue Ryan & Tracey Reddie

Friday 25 August
Priscilla Turnbull, Mel Collins & Jen Wickham

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 are to be in by 8.00 am, please.

Please ensure when ordering online that your child year group is correct

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

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 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 per month. No cooking, cleaning or stocking is 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 the College 6583 2632 or via email at maxine.stone@lism.catholic.edu.au 

Maths Tutorials

Tuesday 7.45am-8.30am and  Friday 7.45am-8.30am

Room 12 Main College with Elizabeth Robertson

Volunteer at Vinnies

Vinnies Port Macquarie needs you! We urgently need volunteers to keep our doors open.
Give back to your local community, make friends, and gain new skills as a Vinnies volunteer.
All funds raised at Vinnies Port Macquarie go straight back into local programs and services. 
No prior experience is needed, there is a role for anyone and everyone!

Register your interest here, or contact us:

Ring and chat with Trish: 0491 140 418 or email: retailvolunteering@vinnies.org.au

Community Events