Term 4, Week 10, 18 December

Upcoming Events

Principal's Update

Christmas wishes

As we conclude 2024, I pray that families have the time to stop and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, to share in a Christmas Mass with our parish community and families, and to reconnect with the Christmas message of Christ’s coming and his example of goodness and community. 

On a personal level, I would like to thank all parents, staff, and students for your ongoing support and partnership in ensuring MacKillop is a wonderful learning environment for our young people. 

I want to wish students and families leaving MacKillop this year, some going to Newman for Years 11 and 12, others moving town, a happy, healthy, and prosperous future. 

To the staff leaving MacKillop College, I wish you all the best for the next stage of your career and thank you for the wonderful service you have given to MacKillop College. Finally, I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy and safe holiday season.

Farewell, Mrs Campbell: 27 years of outstanding service to MacKillop College

Mrs. Campbell, I still remember my first day of Year 7, being a scared and nervous little student. You approached me with a warm smile and greeted me, making small talk and asking how I was feeling. Your care and consideration for each individual clearly represent the type of person you are. On behalf of our school, we want to thank you, Mrs. Campbell, for your significant contributions to all aspects of our lives, your commitment to your role as an assistant principal, your involvement in the creative arts, and your assistance in helping students feel a sense of belonging; comforting the distressed is something we will all truly miss. Thank you for your kindness all these years, and may the years ahead bring you much joy and contentment. Jessica Miles (Yr 10 student)

An integral part of the fabric of MacKillop College since 1997 Jennifer is, amongst the hardest-working people I know, a woman who truly embodies placing the student at the centre of all we do in Catholic education. I have had the privilege of calling Jennifer a colleague, a friend, and a close confidant since the late 1990s, and over the past six years, I have had the pleasure of working closely with her in her role as AP Pastoral Care. In this time I have witnessed just what lengths she will go to for the care and well-being of our young people. Jennifer, MacKillop, and I will be forever grateful for your love, compassion, and commitment. Enjoy your time with family and friends. Cath Eichmann

Getting ready for 2025

Classes 2025

Class timetables will be accessible to students on Compass from Tuesday, 4 February. Students and parents are reminded that changes to class lists will not be made (unless exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the Pastoral Care team). It is College practice that all students are expected to ‘give it a go’ for at least the first four weeks of term. Research shows that meeting new people, widening one’s peer group, and not ‘opting out’ or being rescued from tough situations enhances wellbeing, confidence, mental health, resilience, and social skills. It is important for parents and the school to support and encourage students to adapt to new and changing environments. 

Uniform 2025

As you shop for 2025, please ensure all items comply with the College Code of Presentation.

When buying shoes, parents and students are reminded:

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

Please carefully consider the length of uniform items, including the sport shorts, which should be mid-thigh, and the skirt, which is to be to the top of the knee. Please adjust if needed before the commencement of school next year. Stricter consequences will be implemented from the commencement of 2025 for students who breach the College Code of Presentation, and therefore we would prefer students commence with the correct uniform to avoid conflict to start the year.

Requisite lists 2025

Semester 2 2024 Reports

All parents and students can now access their Semester 2 Reports via the Reporting Tab in Compass. Information about the report can also be found on the inside cover of the report.

Please take the opportunity to discuss the report with your child, and if you require any further information, please contact your child’s teacher.

HSC Success

Congratulations to our HSC students who received their HSC results and ATARs yesterday. Once again, outstanding results from the MacKillop College students are a testament to their hard work and the commitment and support of their MacKillop teachers. 

Special congratulations to our HSC High Achievers;

Runner up to Dux:  Maeve Kinchington 97.95

Yr 7-11 Major Award recipients 

Congratulations to all students who received Awards at our Academic, Service and Spirit Awards on Monday.

2024 Yearbook

Our 2024 yearbook is almost complete and ready for print. The yearbook is a wonderful memento of the 2024 school year. Each family who opted for a yearbook will be distributed in February. Students moving to Newman will have the books delivered to Newman in early March.

Cath Eichmann
Principal

Year 7

Extended PC

Last week, in Extended PC, our students enjoyed a series of physical activity games, including volleyball, kick tennis, and tug of war. These games were keenly contested, encouraging community and house spirit. Overall, these activities enhanced fitness and promoted social interaction, making for a memorable morning for everyone involved.

Thank you

I want to express my gratitude to the Year 7 Pastoral Care team. I am consistently inspired by the genuine care and dedication these teachers show towards their students. Year 7 is incredibly fortunate to have such committed educators, and I truly appreciate all their efforts throughout the year. I would also like to thank Tracey Bewicke, our leader of pastoral care stage 4, for her support and care for our Year 7 students, me, and our pastoral team.

As the Leader of Pastoral Care for the first year of high school for our Year 7 students, it has been a pleasure to witness our students' growth this year. I am also excited to see our students develop next year in a new house system. Each student will be working with new Leaders of Wellbeing next year, and I wish each of our Year 7 students the best for next year. Working and caring for the Year 7 students, parents and staff has been a pleasure.

Seasons Greetings

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

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following student who have received a Gold Principals Award: Johnny Davidson.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal’s Award: Benjamin Clarke, Oscar Garvey, Francesca Healey, Archie McKeough & Elijah Westbrook.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Mia Bringans, Benjamin Clarke, George Conway, Johnny Davidson, Oscar Garvey, Francesca Healey, Cooper Hollis, Airlie Kearns, Sophie Lawrence, Michael Mackie, Riley Martino, Archie McKeough, Braxton Sutherland, Summer Waller & Elijah Westbrook.

Ryan Adams
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 8

As the year ends, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on all we’ve achieved and the community that makes MacKillop College such a special place.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible Year 8 Pastoral Care Team for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the year: Rachel Clark, Laura Cudmore, Lisa Wilton, Erinn Smith, Roxanne Dietrich, Nicole Gough, Katelyn Oppedisano, Mitchell Buchtmann, Andrew Edwards, Annemarie Murphy, Kirsty Bell, Brent Lowery and Colin Coelho.  Your commitment to the care and growth of our students does not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do.

With the new pastoral restructure next year, this will be the last newsletter I write for this cohort as I will stay on Stage 4 next year. I feel fortunate to have known such a fantastic bunch of young humans and their families. I feel very confident that their Pastoral Care teachers and new leaders next year will do an excellent job at guiding the yearly group through their next stage of schooling.

To our Year 8 students and their families, thank you for contributing to our community. Your enthusiasm, commitment and connection have been key to this year's success. As we move into the holiday season, I wish you all a safe, restful, and joyous Christmas and New Year. When you return in 2025, please bring pride in what we have accomplished together this year and an appreciation for the remarkable community we are part of at MacKillop College.

Here’s to another year of growth, success, and shared purpose. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following student who have received a Gold Principals Award: Bethany Folkes.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal’s Award: Laila Bannon, Lila Duncan, Lucy Giudicelli, Oliver Laundry & Lenny Spitzer.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Mikayla Adams, Milana Baker, Laila Bannon, Millie Byrne, Georgie Carlton, Lola Caruso, Callum Clancy, Ryder Colthorpe, Kaylie Dawson, Lila Duncan, Harrison Ebbs, Bethany Folkes, Ruby Ford, Lucy Giudicelli, Maddyx Gray, Isaac Green, Oliver Laundry, Willow Lewis, Nicholas Maetzig, Hayden Manning, Tallin Morris, Eamon O'Sullivan, Xavier Pye, Chloe Ribot De Bressac, Remi Rooney, Liam Ryals, Lenny Spitzer, Aleisha Van Lint & Locke Williamson.

Adam O’Brien
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 9

We wrap up 2024 with Year 9, enjoying the rewards of earnest effort in learning, developing positive relationships with each other and staff, and actualizing the timeless wisdom of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. We have a lot for which to be thankful. 

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to spend the year in Year 9, watching them grow into mature young people and celebrating their successes. I highly value the connections I have enjoyed with the students, parents, carers and the Year 9 PC Team throughout the year - I am truly grateful for being part of each student’s holistic development at school. Thank you for another memorable year.

Farewell to those students leaving us. I wish you the very best in your future endeavours.  

I will continue as a Leader of Wellbeing Stage 5 in 2025 and work closely with the PCs belonging to the Saint Agnes House in the new Pastoral Care structure. 

Code of Presentation 2025

Many families may need to purchase uniform items over the summer. A reminder to parents of the following when considering/buying items for 2025:

• Be particularly vigilant when purchasing shoes:

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

• Check if your child has a college hat or cap. Some students have lost theirs during the year. A college hat is required to be worn each day when students are outside during lunchtime, participating in outdoor physical activity and at the explicit direction of staff;

• Carefully review the fit and length of uniform items and adjust them (if needed) before the commencement of school next year. Shorts and skirts must be mid-thigh in length;

• On returning to school, my hair should be tidy and of a natural colour; hairstyles should not be of an extreme style. Hairstyles that draw unnecessary attention are not permitted, including but not limited to mohawks, mullets or shaved lines. Hair accessories must be black, white or gold;

• Upon return, students may wear two plain sleeper earrings or small studs in each ear, one ring and a watch. No facial piercings are allowed. Clear studs are not permitted, and 

• Makeup, artificial nails, nail polish and false eyelashes are also prohibited.

Classes 2025

Students will receive their timetables via Compass before returning to school next year. I request parents and caregivers be mindful that there are many considerations and limitations when it comes to round classes. With 220 students, ensuring all students have 'a close friend' in their class is not logistically possible. At school, we must work with people who may not always be like-minded and whom we do not know well. At MacKillop, we accept everything and respect everyone’s right to dignity and learning. 

Please encourage your son or daughter to have a positive mindset to change, understand that the friendships they enjoy will strengthen with continued connection outside the classroom, and be open to forming new friendships and positive peer relationships. 

PC Teachers

I want to say a huge thank you to the Year 9 Pastoral Team. I am always inspired by teachers' genuine care and dedication to their students. Year 9 was fortunate to have them; I am genuinely grateful for all they do. 

We look forward to working together with the students and their families as we navigate Stage 5.

Sadly, we say goodbye to Amber Ford and Claudia Whitten, whose families are relocating. They have been very caring for 9F2 and a tremendous support to them and me. Thank you also to Mrs Edwards, who is undertaking a new role in literacy intervention at the College; 9M1 will miss her initiatives and care.  

Seasons Greetings

On behalf of the Year 9 Pastoral Care team, we wish all students and their families a happy, safe and holy Yuletide and a fun, healthy and prosperous New Year. 

Merry Christmas, everyone! 

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following student who have received a Gold Principals Award: Jessica Moore.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal’s Award: Amarlie Gregory, Poppy Mason, Nate Sheldon & Faith Urquhart.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Zachary Bibel, Analiese Bishop, Annabelle Broderick, Samantha Carr, Amarlie Gregory, Leah Hanson, Jackson Hollis, Caitlyn Hucker, Layley Lewis, Charlie Long, Poppy Mason, Patrick McDonald, Jessica Moore, Amarni Munro-Blanch, Neave O'Brien, Keegan Pope, Nate Sheldon, Jack Shuttleworth & Faith Urquhart.

Nicole O’Connell
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 10

As the year draws to a close, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. I hope you take the time to prioritize some well-deserved relaxation while cherishing valuable moments with family and loved ones.

Reflecting on the past 18 months, working with this remarkable cohort has been an absolute privilege. While our journey together is now ending, it also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. I am confident that our students will continue to flourish and thrive under the capable guidance of Bruce Smith. I’d also like to extend my well-wishes to those of you who are moving on to other exciting things, whether moving into the workforce or continuing at Newman Technical College. I sincerely thank all families for your unwavering support throughout this time. Getting to know you all and sharing your journey has been a pleasure.

A special acknowledgment must go to the Pastoral Care teachers, some of whom have supported this group from Year 7 through to Year 10: David McMahon, Michelle Marino, Luke McDonald, David Kennedy, Amy Ryals, Lee Hancock, Richard May, Tessa Stillman, Teena Northey, Susan Eichorn, Kirsty Bell, Kylie Ryan and Stephanie Connor. Their dedication and care have been instrumental in nurturing the growth and development of our students, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Wishing you all the best for the holiday season and the exciting years ahead.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following student who have received a Gold Principals Award: Eleanor Vickers.

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Silver Principal’s Award: Abby Buttsworth, Asha McLean, Noah Nelson, Jack Ryan, Caleb Sajko & Eleanor Vickers.

Tom Salter
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 11

The first HSC exam block is complete, and our students will soon receive their results and some holiday homework. As expected, the results will vary. Some students will be thrilled and proud, knowing their hard work paid off, while others may feel disappointed or disheartened. For those disappointed, if the reason is a lack of effort, there's an opportunity for change in 2025. With dedication and hard work, success is within reach.

Don't let your results define you. Remember, there are still three terms left in the HSC, and a lot can change during that time. This is an opportunity to reassess and make positive adjustments. You can create effective study plans, seek valuable teacher feedback, and focus on improving your learning. Now is the time to start building a path toward success for 2025.

By taking proactive steps, staying focused, and prioritising your goals, you’ll set yourself up for the future you want. Take charge of your progress now, and your future self will thank you.

Thank you to the Year 11 Pastoral Care team for providing an outstanding start to students’ senior schooling. They have supported our students each morning, ensuring they are prepared and ready for the day ahead. Their dedication and care have significantly impacted our students' daily experiences at MacKillop.

I wish everyone a joyful and restful Christmas with great moments and relaxation. I look forward to seeing you all, bright and early, in 2025.

Dan O’Dell
Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care

Wellbeing

Over the past fortnight, I had the pleasure of visiting our Catholic feeder primary schools to meet with the incoming Year 7 students for 2025. It was truly inspiring to witness the excitement, enthusiasm and curiosity as the students began to prepare for their transition to high school. The many thoughtful questions they raised reflected their eagerness to learn more about their future at MacKillop College.

The primary purpose of these visits was to familiarise the students with our focus on well-being and pastoral care, which are central to life at MacKillop. As we prepare to welcome these new students, we emphasise the importance of nurturing not only academic growth but also the holistic development of each individual. Our pastoral care approach is deeply rooted in the core values of Mary MacKillop, which continue to guide our mission and vision for the school community.

At MacKillop College, we are committed to fostering an environment where students strive for academic excellence and thrive as individuals. Our #weThrive approach focuses on supporting the development of key aspects of students' personal and social well-being. I encourage all students and their families to keep in mind that thriving as a person and as a learner requires attention to all areas of their lives, both inside and outside the classroom.

In discussing this, I introduced the "Thrive" framework, which encompasses six key pillars:

• T – Thoughts and Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset and resilience in the face of challenges they present at school.
• H – Health: Prioritising physical and mental wellbeing, including healthy food habits, sleep, physical activity and self-care.
• R – Relationships: Building and utilising meaningful connections with parents, peers, and teachers. Seek support when times are difficult. 
• I – Involvement: Encouraging active participation in both academic and extracurricular activities. High school brings a wide range of new opportunities.
• V – Voice: Empowering students to express themselves and contribute to conversations. Learn positive communication skills. 
• E – Engagement: Ensuring that students remain motivated and invested in their learning. Engage in learning by being punctual, organised and prepared for each day of school.

While I look forward to supporting our new Year 7 students as they embark on this exciting new chapter at MacKillop College, our #weThrive framework is something all students can use to grow as a person and a learner.

Warren Lorger
Leader of Wellbeing - Behaviour Support

Sport News

Year 9 Sport 2025

Any students in Year 8 who have completed their Surf Rescue Certificate or Bronze Medallion in Year 8, please provide a copy to Mrs. Johnston, as you will be assisting with Water Safety in Term 1, 2025.

Representative Sport Reports

NRL Summer 7's

U14 Boys

This was a great way to finish a stellar year of rugby league. The U14s started slowly with the modified game and field size. Losing their first two games narrowly. Once the team got the swing of the upbeat and fast-paced game, they showed their talent, winning their next two games convincingly.

There was some razzle-dazzle and big hits during the games. Some standout moments were Sonnie Chippendale’s tenacious attitude, Eli O’Brien’s leadership, Tobias Rowlett’s attack, Jack Lacey’s speed, Riley Garel’s rock-solid defence, and Rocky Mann’s all-round performance.

MVP: Rocky Mann

COACH: Glen Littler

U14 Girls

Last week, the Under 14s girls competed in the Summer 7s Rugby League Gala day in Port Macquarie. The girls began the day with a loss to their rivals, Camden Haven High, with whom they have constantly battled all year. In their second game, they came up against Wauchope High, and the girls were victorious 29-4. In the third game of the day, they won 25-0 against Kempsey Adventist, and in their final game, they were again winners over Melville High, 29-12. The girls are to be congratulated on how they conducted themselves on and off the field. They played in very hot conditions and were such a pleasure to coach.

MVP of the day went jointly to Ayla Vonbun and London Curtis, with a special mention to Leila Castles, who played rugby league for the first time and did well.

COACH: Laura Cudmore

MacKillop College Events and Registration

All registrations for MacKillop College sports teams are completed by students by logging into Compass - Favourites (Star icon) - Sport - representative. 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. 

The following sports are open to all Boys and Girls in each sport to register to trial;

• 2025 Triathlon team

There are no more trials for Representative Sport teams this year. 

Login to Moodle. Scroll to the Student links on the left hand side. Click on the Representative Sport link to register. Please read the Daily Notices over the next week for Trial dates and times.

If you have any questions, please see Mrs. Denham. 

Click on this link to register: MacKillop College Representative Sport Registration Link. 

Lismore Diocesan Events and Registration - 2025

Northern Country AFL Trials 2025

Here is the link for students to nominate for Northern Country AFL trials. This link is also on our Dio Sport website. 

Outlined below is information on how to nominate. Nominations are due by February 19, 2025. 

Parents of successful students will be notified if they have been selected by the afternoon of Friday, February 21. Whilst we understand this is a tight turnaround for making travel arrangements, this is the expectation from NSWCCC.

NSWCCC & NSW All Schools Events and Registration

NSWCCC CALENDAR 2024

All individual sports registrations are completed on the CSNSW.SPORT website. The parent must have an account and add their child to have access. (Sport Registration HELP available on sport info page) SEE BELOW sports open for registration.

• For further information, go to the CSNSW Sport website Sport pages. https://csnsw.sport
• 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 all close dates are firm dates. No registrations will be permitted after the close dates.

NSWCCC CRICKET EOI 

The NSWCCC 18 years & under Cricket registrations are now open. Please forward on to your Schools/Sports Coordinators/Students.

An expression of interest must be submitted via registration on the CSNSW.Sport portal (the same process as registering for any sport).

Expression of interest dates close on Monday 20 January 2025.

Event: 19-year girls cricket selections

Venue: Lance Hutchinson Oval

Date: 4-5 February 2025

Event: 19-year boys cricket selections

Venue: Lance Hutchinson Oval

Date: 11-12 February 2025

2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON & PARA-TRIATHLON – individuals

Entries are now open for the 2025 NSW All Schools Triathlon for 26 February at Penrith.

Individual entries are through the Sports Unit DASH system (not the CSNSW Sport portal)

Entry is $60 per participant.

For more information>> To REGISTER>>

 2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON - School Teams

27 February 2025 @ Penrith – teams of 3 – 3 age groups – Junior, Intermediate & Senior.

$75 per team. Entry by school sports coordinator – through log in on CSNSW.sport portal. For more information  - https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/triathlon

TERM ONE SPORTS - 2025

Individual nominated sports for Term One – Expression of Interest registrations will open by the end of November – including softball, baseball, tennis, volleyball – 15s & 18s, cricket – 19s.

Related Link

https://csnsw.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2/article/198901765?src=584134009

Erin Denham
Leader of Sport

Canteen Update

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.

Attention all QKR users!

Cut-off time is 8.00 am.

Any orders placed after 8.00 am default to the following day. It is very time-consuming for canteen staff to have to check all late orders every day and then contact parents about their order. 

If you make a mistake, please call the office or send your child to the canteen.

There have also been new gluten-free items added to the menu.

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 

Community News