Term 3, Week 10, 22 September
Upcoming Events
| Week 1 Term 4 | |
| Monday 9 October | Pupil Free Day |
| Tuesday 10 October | Students Return Start of Term 4 |
| Wednesday 11 October | HSC Exams Begin |
| Thursday 12 October | HSC Exams |
| Friday 13 October | HSC Exams |
| Week 2 Term 4 | |
| Monday 16 October | HSC Exams |
| Tuesday 17 October | HSC Exams |
| Wednesday 18 October | HSC Exams |
| Thursday 19 October | Duke of Ed - Bronze Test |
| Friday 20 October | HSC Exams |
Principal's Update
Congratulations Year 12 Class of 2023.
On Wednesday the College community celebrated the Class of 2023. A Class that knew adversity through the impact of fires, floods and a pandemic, which cancelled all overnight excursions, but for their final overnight retreat. The year group also experienced the loss of a classmate to cancer and had peers lose parents and loved ones during their school years. They certainly did not have an easy journey.
Their resilience, generosity and love were acknowledged and College Captains Fleur and Lenny likened the group to a team who worked together to ensure everyone’s success.
The day began with a beautiful Mass, followed by a morning tea. The day was a wonderful celebration with students, staff and Year 12 families.
My heartfelt thanks to all who helped make the day a special memory for our Year 12 students.
Below is a list of the Major Award recipients from the Celebration of Excellence:
Georgia Ryan St Agnes’ Catholic Parish Youth Award
Ellie Fallon Creative Arts Person of the Year
Johnathon Cains MacKillop College Community Service Award
Ellie Fallon MacKillop College Community Service Award
Isabella Morris Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop Award
Mason Swain MacKillop College Academic Endeavour Award
Lottie Wilson MacKillop College Academic Endeavour Award
Tia McGrath MacKillop College Quiet Achiever
Callum Pender MacKillop College Quiet Achiever
Fleur Sherlock School Spirit Award
Elliot Worner School Spirit Award
Lennox Jensen Australian Defence Forces Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award
Tess McWilliams MacKillop College Student of the Year
COLLEGE LEADERS 2023-2024
During the Celebration of Excellence, the College Captains and Vice-Captains for 2023-2024 were announced. Congratulations to four outstanding young leaders;
College Captains: Archie Kay and Maeve Kinchington
College Vice-Captains: Jack O’Connell and Jiya Jamu
The newly announced leaders and the 2023-2024 SRC will be announced at an SRC Commissioning Assembly on Wednesday, 11 October.
HSC NOMINATION
The College has just received news that Lenny Jenson has received a nomination for his HSC Drama Performance to be considered for the OnStage Exhibition of the best 2023 HSC Drama performances. Congratulations Lenny.
We have also just been notified that Mackillop has another six nominations for HSC Dance and are just awaiting confirmation on the students names.
ENROLMENTS 2024
If you are aware your child will be leaving MacKillop College at the end of 2023 could I ask that you please contact pmac-enrolments@lism.catholic.edu.au at your earliest convenience.
If you know of families hoping to enrol at MacKillop for 2024 please suggest they go to https://www.pmaclism.catholic.edu.au/how-to-enrol to begin the process ASAP to avoid disappointment.
Family Connect In Schools Remote Support
The College is pleased to announce that we have been given the opportunity to partner with Family Connect in Schools. A partnership designed to support families. See below a message and details from Ashleigh Howe the FCIS worker.
Hello, I am Ashleigh Howe, the Family Connect in Schools worker remotely based within your School. I have worked within our community for the last 10+ years and my professional background includes working in Family support, Specialist Domestic and Family Violence and Mental health spaces. I will be able to work with families remotely with any concerns they may be experiencing. I can assist in linking families to the appropriate specialist services all while providing a confidential and safe space to advocate for family’s needs. When I’m not at work I enjoy playing sport and spending time with my children exploring our beautiful area.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND TERM 4 COMMENCEMENT DATES
School returns on Tuesday 10 October for students. Staff return Monday 9 October for a professional learning day on the new curriculum that will be coming into schools from 2024.
I wish all students, staff and families a restful, safe and enjoyable holiday break.
Cath Eichmann
Principal
Assistant Principal - Mission
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Two weeks ago the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference released its Social Justice Statement for 2023-2024. It directly addresses the upcoming ‘The Voice’ Referendum.
If you feel the need to be better informed, the following three links will be helpful.
2023-24 Social Justice Statement - Listen Learn Love.pdf
ACBC Social Justice Statement 2023-2024 site
NATSICC resource for The Voice
ABC Listening APP - Voice to Parliament
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL
Captains and Vice Captains will be announced during a Ceremony of Light during the Year 12 Celebration of Excellence in Week 10. This year’s Captains will symbolically pass on the light of Christ to the incoming Captains.
A commissioning ceremony will be conducted during the whole school assembly in the first week of Term 4. Students will then participate in a planning day during week 3 of term 4.
ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER EDUCATIONFirst Nations Bedtime Stories is an annual week of storytelling by Common Ground. It brings First Nations Knowledge and stories into homes and classrooms around Australia. Common Ground is a First Nations not-for-profit working to shape a society that centres First Nations people by amplifying knowledge, cultures, and stories.
Stories have played a central role in First Nations cultures since time immemorial. They are the foundations of First Nations ways of thinking, being, and knowing. They carry knowledge and law and teach us how to care for our country.
First Nations Bedtime Stories are a series of five short stories from the Dreamtime. A new set of five stories is created each year. In the coming week, our First Nations students will have the opportunity to view one of these stories each lunchtime (lunch 2) in room 36.
The stories are available free to any organisation, family, or individual wishing to view them.
For more information and to sign up in 2023, please follow this link.
Peter Murphy
Assitant Principal - Mission
Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
As we come to the end of Term 3 I would like to begin by wishing Year 12 all the best as they finish their formal classes at MacKillop College. All students have been made aware that the JMC Study Centre is open every weekday during the holidays from 9 to 1pm (except for the public holiday) if they wish to study at school. This will be staffed by teachers at all times and students have been made aware of which teachers will be available to assist with their HSC preparation.
2023 Holiday Supervision Staffing
Year 11 have experienced their first exam block and I would like to congratulate all students on the way in which they applied themselves during this assessment period. All students have been given the opportunity to apply for Extension subjects and that process is now complete. Further information regarding those classes will become available at the beginning of Term 4.
Year 10 students who are continuing on at MacKillop will have received their 2024 Subject Confirmation form. I encourage all parents to complete the form confirming the information provided or inform the College if you have made the decision for your child to choose another pathway.
Year 8 and Year 7 students have just completed the process of selecting electives for 2024. Students will be notified of choices early in Term 4.
Finally, I would encourage all parents to use the holidays to check if their child is in need of new books or stationary. By this time of the year, many essential stationary including pens, glue, highlighter and scissors have either been used up or lost.
Christine Harmer
Assistant Principal Learning & Teaching
Wellbeing
Year 9 Boys Education Class
This term the 9.1 boys’ education round class has been attending our “Tradie Tuesday” sessions each week. Held on Tuesday’s Period 5, the sessions have allowed the students to meet and talk with local tradespeople within the Port Macquarie community. The focus has been on the learning process involved in gaining a trade qualification, the role and duties of an apprentice, and the skills and qualities that employers look for in an apprentice.
Each week we have been fortunate enough to have quality tradespeople visit and allow the class to hear first hand the role of a tradesperson and also provide the opportunity to ask any questions about a potential career path.
A big thank you this term to local wall and floor tiler Mitchell Wilbow, carpenter/concreter Kieran Gallagher, a select group of school based apprentices from Newman Senior Technical College and most recently to Mal Joseph from Bush2Beach Plumbing and Gas who have all taken time out of their day to visit and talk about their trade. All great people who I would highly recommend.
If you are a local business owner and/or tradesperson and would like to visit our class, please get in touch. We have so many great people in our community who can help inform our young people.
Warren Lorger
Leader of Wellbeing - Behaviour Support
NSW School Vaccinations
Vaccination Day is Monday 16 October 2023 for all students - YEARS 7 & 10
- Gardasil (HPV) & Boostrix (dTpa) – Year 7s; including any catch-up/missed doses for students from Yr 8
- Meningococcal ACWY – years 10s; including any catch-up/missed doses for students from Yr 10 & 11
If your child is in Year 10 this year, you can now provide online consent for their routine school vaccinations. In Year 10, students are offered the meningococcal ACWY vaccine.
Vaccination will only be provided at school if consent has been received.
How to provide consent:
- To complete online consent for your child’s school vaccinations visit: https://nswhealth.service-now.com/school
- Click the login with the ‘Service NSW Account’ button and log in using your Service NSW details. This is the same account you may already use to renew your driver’s licence. If you don’t have a Service NSW account, refer to Service NSW to create one.
- Update or confirm your personal details in Service NSW as required.
- Complete the School Vaccination Consent Form for your child/ren. You will need to:
- Enter your child’s personal details
- Provide the Medicare card details for you and your child
- Read the linked Parent Information Sheet and privacy statement
- Provide consent
If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper-based consent form directly from your child’s school.
Read a step-by-step guide on how to provide consent online. Translated guides are available in Arabic, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Vietnamese.
For more information on routine school vaccinations, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination.
Translated information about school vaccination is available in 27 languages, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/school_vaccination_language.aspx
Creative Arts Nest
Ignite Your Creativity at The Wednesday Nest - Creative Workshops
Starting Next Term, Week 1, Term 4: Wednesday, October 11
Are you ready to unleash your inner artist, actor, musician, or filmmaker? The Creative Arts Nest proudly presents a fantastic lineup of Creative Workshops, and your opportunity to dive into the world of creativity is just around the corner!
Workshops Include:
Watercolour: Express yourself through the beauty of watercolours.
Drama Improv: Explore your acting talents and quick thinking.
Intro to Film & the Photographic Darkroom: Discover the magic of black and white photography.
Group Vocal Lessons: Learn the fundamentals of singing and let your voice shine.
Beginner Jazz Dance: Get moving and work on the fundamentals of dance.
Beginner Ukulele: One of the easiest instruments to learn, and it is fun!
Foundations of Makeup: Master the art of makeup.
Short Films 101: Learn the art of storytelling through film.
Surf, Skate & Create: Discover how to upcycle surf and skateboards.
These workshops are open to all MacKillop, Regional, and Newman College students. Plus, here's the exciting part – ANY student from ANY of the above schools can attend ANY workshop at ANY location!
Starts: Week 1, Term 4: Wednesday, October 11t
When: Every Wednesday from 3:45pm to 5:15pm (90 minutes per week).
Duration: Running for 8 weeks
Experience Needed: No previous experience is required for any class.
Each workshop is led by a leading industry professional in their respective field, ensuring you receive top-notch guidance and inspiration.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to nurture your creativity and expand your horizons. Whether you're a budding artist, actor, musician, or filmmaker, there's a workshop just for you.
For more information and to register, visit our website at www.artsnest.com.au/nest-
Join us in igniting your creativity and making Term 4 truly exceptional!
Year 7
It has been a great term, with students persisting in their studies and developing their strengths in the classroom, sporting arena, community and extracurricular activities.
We shared extended PC together as a year group last week so that I could hand out the vast number of Leader of Pastoral Care Awards that needed to be issued. So many of our students have earned five Merit Certificates for consistent application and/or outstanding results and/or voluntary service. As there were so many to hand out, well over 200! I issued the certificates randomly to students, With the whole year group in the MPC, students had to find and congratulate the students whose awards they held. What could have been an hour of me individually congratulating each student became a 10-minute activity designed to bring the year group together. I was amazed at how well they got the job done.
I feel very fortunate to witness the continued growth and progress of individuals and the cohort.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Baxter Allison, Liam Ayres, Milana Baker, Jonah Barnes, Lachlan Bryant, Abigail Byrne, Lily Castiglioni, Ruby Cramp, Noah Dowd, Evie Evans, Layla Fel, Amy Fitzgerald, Joshua Gray, Bianca Harrison, Bailey Haste, Matisse Hazelton-Kelly, Josette Hoffman, Gia Hudson, James Hunt, Jayden Jamnadas, Aidan Miles, Jeremy Mills, Charlotte Newman, Maya Perry, Remi Rooney, Madison Sivell, Sophia Sivell, Andrew Slavin, Tahlia Sutherland, Eli Tink, Ella Walker, Archie Wallace, Lachlan Walters, Eve Washburn, Locke Williamson and Sophia Wilmot.
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Mikayla Adams, Samrina Adhikari, Baxter Allison, Grace Ashton, Jayden Atkins, Liam Ayres, Milana Baker, Jonah Barnes, Kayla Bayer, Caleb Bilson, Lachlan Bryant, Alyra Buckley, Abigail Byrne, Grace Byrne, Lola Caruso, Lily Castiglioni, Sarah Chamberlin, Grace Collins, Aaron Cotovich, Ruby Cramp, Noah Dowd, Harrison Ebbs, Olivia Edmund, Evie Evans, Layla Fel, Thomas Fiene, Amy Fitzgerald, Bethany Folkes, Lucy Ford, Ruby Ford, Jake Gainsford, Iestyn Gallagher, Lucas Garnett, Ashton Gillespie, Joshua Gray, Isaac Green, Bianca Harrison, Bailey Haste, Matisse Hazelton-Kelly, Sam Hewens, Leela Hill, Josette Hoffman, Evelyn Hope, Kajus Horan Juzenas, Gia Hudson, James Hunt, Lucia Hurdle, Nate James, Jayden Jamnadas, Evie Kuchling, Oliver Laundry, Willow Lewis, Thomas Loveday, Nicholas Maetzig, Manni McGrath, Aidan Miles, Jeremy Mills, Blake Mitchell, Grace Morris, Georgie Mulder, Charlotte Newman, Amelie Obeid, Maya Perry, Jakob Pol, Edie Porter (x2), Lucy Pratt, Taj Ramsey, Xavier Reichelt, Rocco Robinson, Remi Rooney, Oto Ryan, Tom Sharman, Madison Sivell, Sophia Sivell, Andrew Slavin, Maxine Smith, Lenny Spitzer, Tahlia Sutherland, Alexander Swift, Kalani Taylor, Mark Temple, Tyler Temporale, Tahlia Thompson, Eli Tink, Troy Towers, Aria Varghese, Ella Walker, Archie Wallace, Melody Waller, Nathaniel Walsh, Lachlan Walters, Eve Washburn, Jaysen Wei, Isabella White, Cody Williams, Locke Williamson, Sophia Wilmot and Ruby Winters.
Our young people are ready for a well-deserved break. On behalf of the Year 7 Pastoral Team, I hope that each student and family remain safe and well with time to rest and have fun during the next two weeks.
Happy holidays Year 7, take care.
Adam O’Brien
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 8
As I walked around the many classrooms this week I was impressed to see Year 8 groups continue to work well. Term 4 brings new and exciting adventures with the Year 8 camp to South West Rocks. There have been a lot of nervous but excited conversations around this adventure; the cohort and staff are truly looking forward to it.
Students had a blast enjoying their last extended PC for the term. Year 8 enjoyed the sunshine as PCs competed against each other in 10-minute rounds of Multi-Sports. The ovals were filled with energy, teamwork and smiling faces, it was such a pleasure to witness and experience the positive energy and happiness of everyone. It warmed my heart to hear teachers comment “I was so proud of my PC! They were so positive and involved and so encouraging of each other”, “That was fun and the kids played so well together!” and “That was the best PC activity I have ever taken for a PC teacher. They were so kind to each other, played so fairly and have a great sense of fun.”
It has been a great term, with students persisting in their studies and developing their strengths in the classroom, sporting arena, community and extracurricular activities.
Congratulations
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal Award: Samuel Browne, Samantha Carr, Joseph Chung Jun Hock, Finn Cole, Blaze Colthorpe, Hunter Davis, Matilda Elford, Luke Everson, Logan Howard, Caitlyn Inman, Dylan Keane, Amber Mcilroy, Declan McWhirter, Darcy Middleton, Claire Morris, Charlie Power, Mylee Roach, Elijah Schmidt, Archie Spitzer, Jesse Taylor, Imogen Thompson, Summer Waite, Jaxon Waser and William Whicker.
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Isaac Archer, Ziva Balkin, Diarmuid Barltrop (x2), Zachary Bibel, Oliver Bishell, Lucas Boath, Samuel Browne, Oliver Bryant, Ethan Carey, Samantha Carr, Joe Caruso, Meela Castle, Max Choi, Joseph Chung Jun Hock, William Clark, Finn Cole, Blaze Colthorpe (x2), Riley Dailey, Hunter Davis, Preston Davis, Allie Donohoe, Georgia Dunn, Xavier Dunn, Jasper Eichorn, Matilda Elford, Logan Evans, Rhys Evans, Luke Everson, Gemirah Fernando, Peter Field, Ashton Fraser, Joshua Freeman, Sarah Gleeson, Paige Goldie, Rafferty Gordon, Patrick Green, Olivia Gridley, Quinn Hancock, Leah Hanson, Riley Harris, Archie Hawken, Amelia Heery, Camille Hostettler, Logan Howard, Eli Hudson, Caitlyn Inman, Dylan Keane (x2), Ellie Keast, Jake Keegan, Kayden Madden, Poppi Maltman, Lucas Manning, Svat Mashliatin, Ewan McAllister, Charlotte McEntyre, Jack McGrath, Tori McGrath (x2), Amber McIlroy, Izabella McVerry, Declan McWhirter (x2), Lucas Merrick, Ruby Merritt, Darcy Middleton, Zoe Mizzi, Claire Morris, Lily Moseley, Ally Newton, Caitlin Nottle, Eli O'Bryan, Neha Philip (x2), Milly Platt, Noah Pociask, Keegan Pope, Charlie Power, Ava Ribot De Bressac, Mylee Roach, Jack Robb, Bailey Rowlatt, Lily Rowlatt, Lacey Ryan, Alex Saunders, Aiden Scarff, Elijah Schmidt, Nate Sheldon, Lara Smith, Archie Spitzer, Ashleigh Strong, Jesse Taylor, Marley Thick, Imogen Thompson, Joey Thompson, Summer Waite, Lani Warren, Jaxon Waser, Albie Watson, William Whicker, Addison Williams, Charlie Wise and Daniel Zhong.
During the holidays students need this downtime, as do their teachers, to recharge and return to school with renewed spirit and enthusiasm. On behalf of the Year 8 Pastoral Care Team, I wish all students and staff a peaceful and relaxing break.
Happy holidays Year 8, take care and take care of each other in your family.
See you all next term.
Nicole O’Connell
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 9
Extended PC
In Week 9, students participated in extended PC activities which were aimed at bringing people together. Students were confronted with two challenges - The Balloon Tower and The Egg Drop. To complete these challenges, they were given some limited supplies, a small team to work with and a short amount of time. As I circulated around the PC groups, it was great to see young people working together within their PCs to achieve a common goal. This was mainly completed with the best intentions, however, there were some elements of sabotage evident within some groups!
Extracurricular Activities
It has been a very busy term with a range of activities, excursions and sports for all to pursue. Extracurricular activities certainly complement our programme of study here at the College and contribute to developing well-rounded young people. Early next term, there will be a survey in PC to highlight the upcoming initiatives delivered across Term 4 and I encourage students to put some consideration towards this. It is these activities that enable our students to work towards living a fullness of life.
Congratulations
Congratulations to Estelle Williams who has received a Silver Principal’s Award.
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Daniel Allen, Sean Anderson, Koby Atkins, Mia Bailey, Tane Bartlett, Summer Bink, Olivia Blake, Lilly Blundell, Cameron Bullock, Flynn Burrage, Ryan Campbell, Alexander Clapoudis, Brianna Cooper, Harley Cottom, Caitlin Davis, Corbin Day, Jarrod Dingle, Aiden Finch, Matthew Firkin, Amarni Francis, Grace Galway, Lucy Geary, Emily Giudicelli, Megan Goldie, Olivia Green, Noah Gunn, Phoebe Hagenbach, Luke Jones, Ethan Kelly, Niall Kinchington, Amy Mcwilliams, Mikaeli Morgan, Noah Nelson, Tom Newman, Laura Norris, Kody Peklar, Jesper Robinson, Angus Saidey, Kye Smith, Amelia Southwell, Lucy Strahorn, George Swanson, Catalina Toth, Lacey Urquhart, Connor Van Der Merwe, Brianna Waller, Aaron Walsh, Charlotte Weatherley, Clare Wilcox and Estelle Williams.
Happy Holidays
Schools are busy places and I understand that students are feeling somewhat weary at this stage of the term. It is important to have some well-deserved rest and relaxation so that we can return and perform optimally across Term 4. I would like to take this opportunity to wish our students and their families a safe, happy and restful break.
Tom Salter
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 10
Term 3 has been a busy one, to say the least. Year 10 started out with a decision about their future. As our Year 10 students continue their academic journey, they are faced with an exciting and pivotal decision that will help shape their future. What do you want to do in 2024? MacKillop? Newman? What subjects do you want to study? Apprenticeship? Fulltime work? Or something completely different?
The choices they make now will not only influence their studies but also guide them towards their passions and career aspirations in 2024 and beyond. Whether it's selecting subjects that align with their interests or exploring alternative pathways. We encourage our Year 10 students to explore their options, ask questions, and envision the bright futures they can create for themselves as they embark on this empowering journey of self-discovery and academic growth.
Feast Day
During Week 5 we celebrated Mary MacKillop's Feast Day as a school community. This was a truly heart-warming and enriching experience for all. We were treated to a whole school prayer service in the morning which reminded us of the importance of unity, compassion, and service to others, values that Mary MacKillop exemplified throughout her life. It was a beautiful opportunity to come together as a community, share our thoughts, and appreciate the sense of togetherness.
Year 10 were then able to share lunch and some time in PC with their peers during the school-wide trivia competition.
RESPECT Day
In Week 8, Year 10 attended the Respectful Relationships Education Program - RESPECT (Respect Everyone So People Everywhere Can Thrive) Day. They engaged in whole-year group sessions and three PC sessions run by our staff and facilitators. Students were given the opportunity to examine, discuss, and explore respectful relationships in a safe environment.
Session topics included: Attitudes toward relationships, Sexual violence and the law and It’s YOUR Choice.
The overall aims of the sessions were to equip our young people with the knowledge needed to have respectful relationships, encourage and develop their skills in critical thinking, and assist them in being able to problem solve and communicate effectively.
When equipped with personal skills in these areas, young people can make the right choices for themselves and their relationships that are free from violence and abuse.
They all thoroughly enjoyed the day and engaged very respectfully and honestly with all the activities. I hope you had the chance to discuss this day with your young person and engage in conversation about what they learned.
RUOK? Day
Thursday of Week 9 was RUOK? Day. The theme for this year is "I'm here to hear". We want people to know that there is always someone to talk to and who will listen.
During Extended PC last Wednesday, Year 10 made RUOK Day bracelets. They were encouraged to make someone a bracelet to show them that there is always someone around to talk to. Our young people really got into this idea and made lots of bracelets during this time in PC. PC teachers had many conversations with their class and the students valued the time to just spend time with each other in a relaxed environment.
Term 4 - 2023
As Year 10 commences their final term, the importance of ending their time here on a positive note cannot be overstated. These last few months will offer a chance to reflect on the friendships they have forged, the knowledge they have gained, and the personal growth experienced throughout their high school years. It's a time to cherish the memories they’ve created and to focus on leaving a lasting, positive impact on our school community.
Embracing this period with enthusiasm, determination, and a commitment to kindness not only ensures they make the most of their final moments in Year 10 but also sets the tone for the exciting new chapters awaiting beyond. Let us remember that the positive spirit they cultivate now will continue to shape their futures.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Aidan Archer, Charlee Bailey, Jamison Barlow, Isabella Campbell, Makennah Collins, Keira Crinion, Bronte Hender, Jasmine Lacey, Kira Lewis, Isabelle Lucey, Milly McGrath, Noah McIlveen, Tianah McKinnon, Imogen McNeil, Makayla Mott, Madeline Strong, Riley Trotter and George Worner.
I hope you all have a restful and enjoyable holiday break and I look forward to seeing you all back for Term 4 2023.
Daniel O’Dell
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 11
Year 11 should feel proud of themselves for completing their final preliminary course exam block. Naturally, this time of year is stressful, but students deserve to be commended on their exemplary behaviour in the exams, polite cooperation with the external Invigilators, and considerate support of each other despite mounting anxieties. They are deserving of a safe and restful break.
After taking time to relax, I would recommend students take a moment to reflect on:
- their growth as learners and individuals over the past three terms;
- the effectiveness of their organisational systems; and
- ensuring they have reliable support networks moving into the beginning of their HSC courses.
Congratulations
Congratulations to Tayte Schultz who has received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award:
Patrick Byrnes
Acting Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care
Year 12
After 13 years of schooling, we said farewell to our wonderful Year 12 students this week. As their Leader of Pastoral Care for the past two years, I am incredibly proud to have been a part of their “village” not only over the last two years but also the past six years at MacKillop College. I have watched them grow into incredible young men and women ready to take on the world and make a difference.
The Graduation Mass and Celebration of Excellence last Wednesday were a beautiful way to celebrate the past 13 years of schooling and it was wonderful to see so many parents and family members celebrating with their children.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish every Year 12 student good luck for their HSC Exams which start on Wednesday 11 October. There is still plenty of hard work to go over the next month or so but I know they can do what needs to be done - they are almost at the finish line. The JMC will be open over the holidays from 9.00am-1.00pm, Monday to Friday (excluding the Public Holiday on Monday 2 October) for the students to access. Staff have kindly offered to give up their time in the holidays to come and support our students. Students have been emailed a timetable including the names of staff who will be available during the holidays.
Lastly, I would like to thank the Year 12 Pastoral Care team who have been an integral part of our Year 12 students' lives over the past two years. Thank you to Kelly Higham, James Westman, Anne Marie Stacey, Alexa Harvey, Katrina Hayes and Brooke Ryan.
On behalf of MacKillop College, I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday and look forward to seeing our students back on Wednesday 11 October to sit their first HSC Exam.
Tracey Bewicke
Year 12 Leader of Pastoral Care
Sport Update
TERM 3 SPORT - That’s a wrap!
Term 3 Sport has been an action-packed term with Year 7 enjoying Tennis sessions run by the excellent team from Goodwin’s Tennis Coaching at Westport Tennis Club. This program is well supported by the Australian Sporting Schools grant funding that we apply for each term.
Since 2019 MacKillop has been the recipient of $36,000 in grant funding to offset the costs of our Years 7-10 Sport Program allowing us to offer specialised sessions across a variety of sports including Basketball, Netball, Rugby League, AFL, Touch Football and Tennis.
Year 8 students have been enjoying their taster lessons this term attending Rock Climbing, Planet X and Rec Walking.
Year 9 and 10 students have enjoyed getting back into elective sport this term after a break in Term 2 where we ran our first inaugural interschool sports competition with St Joseph’s Regional College and Athletics preparation lessons.
Some highlights have been the keen mountain biking crew, the students prepared to invert themselves at Aerial Acro suspended from the roof by silk and our connect groups.
We piloted a new program in conjunction with the Australian Sporting Schools Grant program where we received $3000 to reach more students who may have disengaged with sport for various reasons. The two Connect groups have had a great time going to a different sport each week including a session with Miss Motivator, Lawn Bowls with Commonwealth Games gold medallist Natasha Van Eldrich, Zumba, Learn to Surf & Dragon Boating.
Thank you to all the students who have engaged with sport in such a positive way this term. The feedback from the Staff has been fantastic.
I look forward to seeing students have fun in the sun at sports in Term 4. Please read the programs and familiarise yourself with what is being offered.
Year 7 Term 4
Year 8 Term 4
Year 9 Sport Term 4
Year 10 Sport Term 4
Year 12 Sport Awards
The Year 12 Sports Awards were held last week. We acknowledged and congratulated those students who have represented the school across a wide range of individual and team sports. We also thanked our House Captains for 2023.
Our leaders have led by example this year by embracing the House spirit at each of the carnivals and participating in competitions where possible. Their enthusiasm, energy and commitment to sport along with their healthy role modelling especially to the younger students is to be commended. Our Year 12 House Captains for 2023 were:
FLINDERS: Harper Murray
INNES: Benjamin Hamel
MACQUARIE: Joshua Newton
OXLEY: Isabella Morris
Congratulations to the following award recipients:
CHAMPION HOUSE
Congratulations to Flinders House and its House Captain, Harper Murray, on being the Champion House for 2023. This is well deserved and just goes to show the positive impact that getting involved can have.
OUTSTANDING INVOLVEMENT
To receive this award, a student in Year 12 has to have represented MacKillop College in 3 or more different sports.
| Rosina Smith | Soccer, Hockey, Touch |
| Tia McGrath | Cross Country, Netball, Touch, Athletics |
| Jasper Sumsky | Cross Country, Swimming, Triathlon, Athletics |
| Elliott Worner | Cross Country, Hockey, Netball, Athletics |
| Luke Hancock | Soccer, AFL, Touch, Futsal |
| William Pamplin | Basketball, Netball, Swimming |
| Jesse Blain | Basketball, AFL, Soccer, Netball |
| Angele Field | Rugby League, AFL, Touch, Cross Country, Swimming, Athletics |
| Ethan Hawkins | Soccer, AFL, Touch |
| Joshua Newton | Touch, AFL, Soccer |
| Noah Thick | Soccer, AFL, Touch |
| Tess McWilliams | Rugby League, Soccer, AFL, Athletics, Futsal |
| James Hindmarsh | AFL, Athletics, Futsal, Soccer |
| Bronte McAllister | Athletics, Diving, Swimming |
| Fleur Sherlock | Athletics, Netball, Touch |
EXCELLENCE IN SPORT - PATHWAY
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 level.
| Hamish Teasdell | Canoeing - K1 Slalom Silver medal |
| Angele Field | Rugby League - NSWCCC 18s Rugby League Team |
| Tess McWilliams | Rugby League - Australian Schoolgirls Rugby League - NSWCCC 18s Rugby League Team |
| OPEN BOYS HOCKEY TEAM - Elliott Worner, Charlie Ford, Cody Mills, Tobias Toohey, Andrew Yates, Ethan Maher, James Ferguson, Josh Bell, Noah Memmott | Hockey - NSWCCC Silver medalist |
OPEN BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM Jesse Blain, William Pamplin, Toby Harper, Sam Blain, Riley Harmer, Blake Collins, Kaden Lawler, Blake Romer, Lucas Scott & Malachy Kelleher | Basketball - NSWCCC Basketball Championships - Silver Medallist |
Bronte McAllister | Diving - NSWCCC Silver Medal - NSWCCC Diving Team |
SENIOR TEAM OF THE YEAR - Open Boys Basketball Team
Jesse Blain
William Pamplin,
Toby Harper
Sam Blain
Riley Harmer
Blake Collins
Kaden Lawler
Blake Romer
Lucas Scott
Malachy Kelleher
Open Boys Hockey Team
Elliott Worner
Charlie Ford
Cody Mills
Tobias Toohey
Andrew Yates
Ethan Maher
James Ferguson
Josh Bell
Noah Memmot
YEAR 12 SPORTSPERSONS OF YEAR – Tess McWilliams
Congratulations to Tess on a highly successful year. To qualify for this award, the athlete must participate in a range of sports at a competitive level. They must conduct themselves in a manner that demonstrates outstanding school spirit, sportsmanship and dedication to training and competition.
Tess competed in the following whilst juggling the demands of the HSC.
Rugby League
- Represented Mackillop College at the Diocesan Rugby League Trials
- Made the Diocesan Rugby League Team
- Made the Northern Country Rugby League Team
- Made the NSWCCC Inaugural 18’s Girls Rugby League Team
- Made the Inaugural Australian Schoolgirls Under 18’s Rugby League Team
- Representing Australia on an International Tour against Papua New Guinea
SOCCER
- Represented Mackillop in the Senior Girls Soccer Team
FUTSAL
- Represented Mackillop at the Champions of Champions Futsal Competition
AFL
- Represented Mackillop College in the Senior Girls AFL Team
ATHLETICS
- Representing Mackillop College at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival
Congratulations Tess– you have achieved outstanding results over the past 12 months reaching the pinnacle of the school sport pathway representing Australia in the Rugby League. As many athletes do, you have overcome adversity through injuries and proven that with a lot of hard work and persistence, anything is possible.
You are certainly leaving a strong legacy behind at MacKillop for others to follow in your footsteps. Your leadership skills are second to none and widely spoken about in sport circles. Thank you for being a fine ambassador for Mackillop College, the Lismore Diocese, NSWCCC and Australian teams and being such a positive role model for students to aspire towards.
Year 11 Rogaining Day
Year 11 SLR joined 150 St Joseph's Regional, SCAS and Newman students as part of the Hastings Rogaining Day at Queens Lake Nature Reserve. Year 11 completed this as part of their coursework and assessment. The aim of the assessment was to navigate the trails and get to as many checkpoints as possible by 1pm.
Our Mackillop students had a great time with some groups dressing for the occasion sporting Pink Barbies and Tradie outfits. Besides a few wrong turns all our students made their way to the finish line. Congratulations to the Tradie group for accruing the most number of checkpoints (Jesse Ertl, Lucy Treasure, Jack Bryan and Chloe Payne).
Thanks to John Rossington, Ali Montgomery and Chris Delaney for setting up a great course for a fun day on the mountain. It was a great way to finish the SLR course for the year.
Erin Denham & Susie Coster
Sport Reports
Girls AFL
Last week the Junior Girls AFL team travelled to South West Rocks to play Bishop Druitt in the NSW MNC AFL Finals. Unfortunately, the girls came up against a much stronger, well-drilled opponent. While the girls had moments where they were able to maintain possession and score, the opposition consistently won the midfield converting most goal attempts.
It has been a pleasure to see some of the girls shine in the sport that they love and to see others get introduced to a new sport and enjoy it enough to pursue AFL outside of school.
Thank you to Liz White our Manager, to Susie Coster for her support along the way and to Clarissa Morris for assisting as an official on the day.
Erin Denham - Coach
Schools Cup Regional Finals 7 & 8 Boys Team
Leading up to the Schools Cup Regional Finals, the 7/8 Boys team put in a lot of time training together which resulted in them developing individually as players as well as a team. This dedication to training paid off with the boys going through the day undefeated. After beating St Joseph’s Regional College in Round 1 by 6 points, the boys came up against them again in the Grand Final only to draw with them at full time leading to extra time. Our boys fought hard and unfortunately lost by 1 point at the end of the extra time. We are so proud of each player in the team as they all played an integral part in getting the team this far. Special mentions go to Ben Romer for his precision in the goal-shooting circle and to Jack McGrath who was Best and Fairest on the day with his ability to read the play resulting in many interceptions.
The team consisted of Flynn Daly, Rafferty Gordon, Patrick Green, Eli Hudson, Jack McGrath (Captain), Rocky Mann, Noah Pociask and Ben Romer.
MVP: Jack McGrath
Amber Mann (Coach)
Schools Cup Regional Finals 7 & 8 Girls Team
Congratulations to the Year 7 and 8 Girls' netball team who recently played in two carnivals.
NSW State Cup Regional Finals
Each and every game was hard fought and the girls played some amazing netball. We lost one game to Bishop Druitt College in the pool games. With determination and commitment, we managed to win the crossover final against John Paul, Coffs Harbour. This meant we played Bishop Druitt again in the grand final. The game was close but a few unfortunate turnovers allowed them to get the upper hand. Unfortunately, we lost by 5 goals.
MVP awarded to Tilly Sinclair.
Lismore Diocesan Carnival
Backing up again after only two days was a big ask but each and every player demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment. The pool games were competitive but we managed to progress to the finals without a loss. The grand final against John Paul, Coffs Harbour, was initially very tight but our girls took control of the game. They were impressive across the court and each member of the team contributed positively to the comfortable win. Dual MVP was awarded to Tilly Sinclair and Charlotte McEntyre who both demonstrated great leadership and skills beyond their age.
Everyone should be congratulated on their sportsmanship throughout both carnivals and be proud of their efforts.
MVP: Tilly Sinclair and Charlotte McEntyre
Nicole Thompson & Lisa Kable (Coaches)
Representative Sport, Upcoming Events and Registration
All registrations for MacKillop College Representative Sport teams are completed by;
- Logging into the school Moodle page (Chrome browser).
- Click on the Student Links tab on the left-hand side
- Click on the Representative Sports registration 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. Sports currently open for registration are;
MacKillop College Events
| Sport | Event | Date |
| League Tag | NRL - 2023 Girls League Tag Challenge | 26 October |
| Rugby League | Rugby League Summer 7’s | 30 November |
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 this link to register for individual sports. The sports below are trialled for at a school level.
| Sport | Event | Date |
| Volleyball | Lismore Diocesan Volleyball Southern Gala Day | 13 October |
| Water Polo | Lismore Diocesan Water Polo - Junior | 8 & 9 November |
| Water Polo | Lismore Diocesan Water Polo - Senior | 15 & 16 November |
| Golf | Lismore Diocesan Volleyball Golf Championships | 13 November |
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.
| Sport | Event | Date |
| Rugby League | Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League Championships 16 Girls & 15 Boys PMQ | 22 - 29 September |
| Cricket | Catholic Girls Cup - Hamilton North | 10 & 11 October |
| Basketball | NSWCCC Junior & Intermediate Boys & Girls Basketball Championships Blacktown | 29 - 31 October |
For further information, go to the CSNSW Sport website Sport pages. https://csnsw.sport/
Applications are now open for the North Coast Academy of Sport 2023-2024 sports programs.
The academy has opened nominations for the sports of Basketball, Netball, Hockey and Volleyball.
All applications close on the 30 September.
Community Sport
U15s NSW Samoan Rugby Union Representative
Congratulations to Year 9 student and Hastings Valley Viking Sam Young on his recent selection in the U15s NSW Samoan Rugby Union team, After a weekend of trials in Sydney, Sam will now participate in the Pacifica Youth Rugby Union tournament which will be held this November. It is anticipated he will play against teams from other states and neighbouring Pacific nations.
Sam is an energetic scrum half who shows great motivation, skills and toughness, regularly playing well above his weight. Well done Sam and we wish him all the best in this tournament.
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 9 October
Staff Professional Learning - No Help Needed
Tuesday 10 October
No help needed
Wednesday 11 October
Danielle Sen Gupta & Roz Brockhurst
Thursday 12 October
Jo Sexton & Chris Jourdant
Friday 13 October
Leanne Hatherly, Caroline Horam & Hana Smith
Monday 16 October
Lunch 2 Trish Carr & Amanda Lorger
Tuesday 17 October
Vanessa Wilson & Louise Moore
Wednesday 18 October
Bec Eakin & Sarah Dahalenberg
Thursday 19 October
Noeline Rooney & Amanda Ayres
Friday 20 October
Hannah Temple, Christine Brumby, Sam Harrison & Jane Keegan
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
Community Events
