Term 2, Week 6, 3 June

Principal's Update

STAFF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DAY

A reminder that MacKillop College staff will be participating in a Staff Professional Learning Day next Friday, 10 June. This day will be student free, however students are encouraged to use the day to work on upcoming assessment tasks and assignments.

YEAR 7 2023 Enrolments closing today

Just a reminder to any families who have siblings in Year 6 hoping to come to MacKillop in 2023 that enrolments close today. We already have more applications than we have spaces so need to finalise offers next week. Once finalised, students will be placed on a waiting list. 

Code of Presentation 

Throughout this term the College is doing checks on students' adherence to the College Code of Presentation. Over the past few weeks hairstyles have been addressed and in particular current trends with boys having mullet style haircuts which do not meet the Code. 

In the next few weeks we will be paying particular attention to the wearing of College Sports shorts and skirts. I encourage students and families whose shorts or skirts do not meet the Code to fix or purchase these as soon as possible. 

Whilst I do appreciate not all parents agree with the standard of the Code of Presentation, or certain elements of it, with over 800 families at the College consensus is not possible and therefore enrolment does require a commitment to support the College in ensuring the Code is adhered to. All parents and students are required to sign this agreement on enrolment. 

Be assured I did not become a teacher, and certainly not a principal, to focus on uniform and much prefer to be focusing on the learning and wellbeing outcomes for our young people. I do, however, take pride in the high standard of our uniform and will ensure the Code of Presentation is met. At intermittent times, parents, student leaders and staff do identify that the standard is slipping and at present is one such time. We will therefore put the time and effort into addressing key areas that have been identified as having large numbers of students not complying. 

Whilst such crackdowns do cause unrest, I can assure all it is as simple as if the uniform meets the Code of Presentation, students will simply be thanked for wearing it correctly. If it does not meet the Code, students will simply be told it doesn’t meet the Code of Presentation and are asked to rectify it. 

If any parent wishes to discuss the Code of Presentation please phone the College to make an appointment.

National Sorry Day Mass

Last Thursday the College community came together to acknowledge National Sorry Day. Our Aboriginal students who participated in the Mass showed wonderful courage, in line with the 2022 Reconciliation Week theme of ‘Be Brave, Make Change’. None more so than Year 10 leader and proud Aboriginal student, Tyler Morris. Tyler concluded our Mass by addressing the whole College community. Below is his powerful message, partially inspired by some of his Aboriginal peers' own bravery in a recent meeting with College leaders and Aboriginal Education Workers, Tristram and Belinda, where they expressed their biggest challenge was peers questioning and making negative comments about their Aboriginal heritage because of their fair skin colour. 

I commend Tyler’s message to you, and encourage all parents to discuss at home in coming days. 

There are things that have damaging impacts to reconciliation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people today. One of those things is assumptions and stereotyping.

Sometimes non-Aboriginal people can have views about Aboriginal people, even if they don’t know them or haven’t had much to do with Aboriginal people.

Often these views are positive, though sometimes they are negative. People can take second or third-hand information or hear something in the media and presume that this information is completely correct, when often it is not correct.

One of the stereotypes that we experience as students is the assumption that you aren’t Aboriginal if you have light skin. Non-Aboriginal people can sometimes have an image of what they think an Aboriginal person should look like.

The truth is that all Aboriginal people look different and often today Aboriginal people have mixed ancestry with European influence.

To be Aboriginal in NSW there are 3 criteria that must be met, you must;

1.  Be a descendant of Aboriginal people who are the traditional owners of the land before  colonization
2.   Self-identify as Aboriginal
3.   Be known in your community as an Aboriginal person.

Skin color or what you look like has no bearing on your Aboriginal identity.

The judgement of a young person’s Aboriginality by their non-Aboriginal peers is something that happens often for young Aboriginal people in school. Aboriginal identity is much deeper than appearance, it’s about our family connection or kinship, our connection to country, our community connection, our cultural beliefs and customs, our deep family history, our cultural practices and our strong cultural values.

Our Aboriginal identity is an integral part of who we are, it can be offensive when we are told that we are not Aboriginal by someone who may not know about our family history, our personal story or what it means to be Aboriginal.

If you want to learn more about someone’s Aboriginal identity, rather than challenging their identity, simply ask them more about it in a respectful way.

Some questions you may like to ask include:

-          Can you please tell me a bit more about your Aboriginal identity?

-          What Aboriginal nation do you descend from and where is this?

-          Are there any special cultural practices that you and your family do?

-          What does it mean to be Aboriginal?

Also remember, there is a lot of diversity in the Aboriginal population, just like with everyone else. It’s important not to judge all Aboriginal people as the same.

When you hear an assumption or a stereotype about Aboriginal people, remember to ask yourself “does this actually sound true” and how would you feel if people said this about you and your family and community.

Slice of Haven

Last Sunday our amazing St Agnes’ Catholic Parish Drumline performed at the Slice of Haven event in Laurieton. Once again congratulations to students and to Drumline Director Mark Spence on representing our schools with such distinction. The Drumline continues to be sought after for local community events. Catch them in coming weeks at the Port Macquarie ARTWALK (10 June) and the Ride the Wave Festival (25-26 June). 

Canteen - QKR! Ordering app 

Please be aware that due to time constraints and an increase in student orders, the morning cut off time for online canteen ordering is now 8:00am daily. 

Cath Eichmann

Principal

Curriculum Update - Assessments

Now we are over halfway through the term and nearly halfway through the year, we are beginning to see the increase in assessment opportunities taking place across all subjects. An important aspect to remember is that all assessments are an opportunity to check a student's knowledge and understanding at various points in time to evaluate what has been learned and plan suitable interventions or progressions moving forward. 

In order to support our young people in understanding the purpose of assessment, it is important that our discussions around assessment or evidence of learning opportunities communicate that they help us on our learning journeys to know:

• Where am I now?
• Where am I going?
• What are my next steps?

To help our students prepare and plan, they can see what assessments are coming up on their Year group calendars that are available on Moodle, and also access copies of their Assessment Task Notifications.

In the lead up to Assessment we recognise that challenges may be faced, unexpected or planned events may arise. In order for us to facilitate and plan the right support or processes for our students that may be in this position, it is important that the Assessment Variations forms are completed and submitted to pmac-assessment@lism.catholic.edu.au prior to or on the day of an assessment. Please note that in order for the Assessment Variation form to be completed digitally, it must be downloaded onto a device first, then completed, as it is an editable PDF.

We also recognise and support the diverse learning needs of our students and if you wish to discuss or clarify what further supports are available to assist our students, please contact Jessica Prussing, Leader of Diversity and Inclusion jessica.prussing@lism.catholic.edu.au to clarify what supports or provisions are available. 

Further support for students to plan and study are available through the afternoon Homework Hub based in the Junior Library for Year 7-10 students, and the Senior Homework Club in the JMC for Year 11 and 12 students.

If you have any questions around assessment please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sarah Warby
Leader of Curriculum

Year 7

On Tuesday, 24 May Year 7 spent the day in town for our Belonging Day. We began the day in celebration with Father Paul who narrated Mass which explained the symbolism, ritual and tradition of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Afterwards, students joined a round-robin of activities that focused on celebrating kindness, belonging, collaboration and community spirit.

Thank you to all students for your enthusiasm, respect and positive spirit. Thank you also to Marg Gobius and the team for organising our special Mass and activities.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award: Ziva Balkin (x2), Freya Briggs, James Bugler, Finn Cole, Peter Duffy, Paige Goldie, Anna Harmer, Evie Hewens, Declan McWhirter, Jessica Moore, Clarie Morris, James Owen, Mylee Roach, Benjamin Spencer (x2), Julia Helena Streegan, Ashleigh Strong, Charlotte Taylor, Marley Thick, Imogen Thompson, Summer Waite, Lani Warren and Charlie Wise.

Nicole O’Connell
Year 7 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 8

On Tuesday, 21 June Year 8 students will embark on a 30 minute journey through the consequences of the decision making process young people may be faced with when it comes to alcohol use. This will then be followed by a workshop where students will have the opportunity to engage with the performers and ask any questions that they may have about the issues raised. This is directly related to the PDHPE topics students will be studying this year and in Years 9 and 10. 

There is no charge for the performance. Please see the SMASHED article below for further information. 

Feel free to contact myself or Alison Montgomery, Leader of Learning PDHPE alison.montgomery@lism.catholic.edu.au, should you have any questions about this performance.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Brianna Cooper who has who have received a Leader of Pastoral Care Award.

Greg Finney
Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care

SMASHED

Year 9

SMASHED

On Tuesday, 21 June Year 9 students will embark on a 30 minute journey through the consequences of the decision making process young people may be faced with when it comes to alcohol use. This will then be followed by a workshop where students will have the opportunity to engage with the performers and ask any questions that they may have about the issues raised. 

This is directly related to the PDHPE topics students will be studying this year and in Year 10. There is no charge for the performance. Please see the SMASHED article for further information.

Feel free to contact myself or Alison Montgomery, Leader of Learning PDHPE alison.montgomery@lism.catholic.edu.au, should you have any questions about this performance.

Daniel O’Dell
Year 9 Leader of Pastoral Care

Duke of Edinburgh

On Tuesday, 24 May Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh students went on their Bronze practise expedition to Hat Head National Park. The heavy weekend weather gave way to clear skies for both days, although student tent pitching skills were tested with a night time downpour. 

On Tuesday we explored around Hat Hill, then hiked along the scenic coastal track via Windy Gap to Hungry Gate campground. Camp set up, cooking and gathering around the campfire was fortunately all done prior to the rain setting in. 

Wednesday had lots of photo opportunities as the group explored the second largest coastal dune system in NSW. Between hiking, dune surfing, rolling down sand hills, encountering Aboriginal middens and stone working sites, there was something of interest for everybody. The students all ended up very damp, very sandy and with very big smiles on their faces. 

A huge thank you to Sarah Thomson for her help with running this expedition. 

Robert Mahon
Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator/Science Teacher

Year 9 & 10 Fitness Challenge

June Challenge

Welcome to June! This June we would like to challenge Year 9 and 10 students. Your challenge is to complete the activity from each day of the calendar. You can choose to do the Joyful June or the Fitness June or a combination of both.

If you are interested, please see Mr Littler who can provide you with a printed calendar. You will need to get each activity you complete signed by your parent or carer. If you can complete one full week you will receive a Freddo Frog as a reward. You will need to bring the signed copy to me to during one of your lunchtimes or during PC for your reward.

Glen Littler
Stage 5 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 10

Year 10 are currently busy preparing for and completing a number of assessments; please find access to the assessment calendar below:

Year 10 Assessment Calendar

Week 9 will be quite a big week with students participating in the RESPECT Day and completing All My Own Work (AMOW) modules on Monday. They will then attend the Year 10 Mid Coast Careers Day before the week culminates with the Athletics Carnival on the Friday.

All My Own Work is a program designed to help students follow the principles and practices of good scholarship. This includes understanding, valuing and using ethical practices when locating and using information as part of their studies. Students will also gain clarity around the consequences for cheating, and how to avoid malpractice and plagiarism when preparing their work for assessments. To be eligible for the Year 11 ROSA and HSC, all students must complete All My Own Work before they submit any work for Preliminary (Year 11) courses.

Safe on Social Media Article

David Kennedy
Year 10 Leader of Pastoral Care

Year 11

You Choose Youth Road Safety Presentation 

Today Year 11 and 12 students attended an important presentation by Melissa McGuinness from You Choose Youth Road Safety, Australia's youth-led mission to change driving culture.

Melissa is a mother of three children who lives with the loss of her 18-year-old son Jordan, who died in a car crash in 2012 in which his choices also killed four other innocent people.

You Choose messages are confronting, though extremely important for young people and their decision making as drivers and passengers. Many students were moved to profound introspection about their own families, which is the intent behind the mission's motto - Own the Choice, Own the Outcome.  

The program challenged students to consider how they will personally seek leadership in road safety, live life to its fullest, protect their loved ones and be truly accountable in situations where they need to place their safety and wellbeing at the forefront of decision making.  

Our students have been asked to share the You Choose mission with you and to discuss what they have taken from the program. I strongly urge you to engage in this conversation with your teen.

Tracey Bewicke
Year 11 Leader of Pastoral Care 

Year 11 Hospitality

Year 11 Hospitality students are continuing with the work placement program in the St Agnes' Food Services Production Kitchen. This is a mandatory part of the Hospitality course where students experience working in the Hospitality industry and are able to practise skills working alongside qualified chefs.

Students assisted with the catering for the 260 plus meals/day for the Catholic Care of the Aged patrons. Thank you to Ken Selway, Food Services Manager for providing our students with such an opportunity. In particular, a huge thank you to the Production Kitchen Chefs for taking students under their wing during the placement. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful collaboration where students can learn directly from experiences in the work place.

Georgina Pender

Hospitality Teacher and VET Coordinator

Year 12

Half Yearly Awards

It was lovely to have parents back in the school to celebrate the Year 12 Half Yearly Academic Awards. Whilst the awards ceremony was about recognising academic achievement, I also took the opportunity to share with parents some of the other things worth recognising in these young men and women. 

Over the past 18 months they have grown and matured and in doing so have become more relaxed with one another and have extended their friendships beyond their usual circles. The feeling after the Year 12 Retreat was one of unity and acceptance that they had not felt quite as strongly as before. They have been more willing to step outside their comfort zone and be more involved in PC and Year group activities. They have stepped up and led College assemblies and fundraisers. They are wonderful role models and are a calming and positive force for our younger students. They are willing to stand up for one another and for justice in general. They are generous with both their time and hard earned money, and they collectively genuinely care about people and their wellbeing. 

It was lovely to recognise in this ceremony the academic achievement, work ethic and commitment to community spirit that these young people have displayed throughout the first half of their HSC journey.

Outstanding Achievement Awards are awarded to those students who, in their half yearly report, received Excellence Awards in four or more subjects. Congratulations to:

Sally Edmonds, Lucy Kay, Emily Moloney and Harley Sirovica.

Outstanding Application Awards are awarded to those students who received Application Awards in five or more subjects. Congratulations to:

Harry Abell, Cameron Aird, Keira Bardell, Ruby Berryman, Ryan Binskin, Billie Brennan, Giselle Brennan, Josie Campbell, Charlotte Carrick, Olivia Cotovich, Noah Darrington, Mia Dawson, Katie Duffy, Bianca Fellas, Georgia Flowers, Lily Fox, Elsa Gandy, Alexander Goldie, Andrea Gutierrez Valverde, Ryan Harper, Auraiha Hewens, Emma Highlands, Alice Ho, Jenaya Hourigan, Liam Jones, Jack Kirkby, Evan Lipovac, Dee Mackenzie, Phoebe Minogue, Cody Newton, Olivia Nichols, Kiana Osmond-Dreyer, Isobel Pares, Kiera Plews, Juliana Soto, Lilly-Lee Sprague, Shanyse Stobbe, Jack Strahorn, Thomas Strahorn, Taylor Toni, Dominica Toohey, Samantha Tucker, Hugh Turnbull, Zac Wignall and Lacee Williams.

Push Up Challenge

After some celebrity appearances on the Channel 7 news last week, our Year 12 students led the way with the Push Up Challenge this week, pumping out the specified amount each day to raise awareness for mental health. This is the second time that we have participated in this event, and having completed it last year, Year 12 were great advocates for the cause.

Presentation by Melissa McGuniness from You Choose

Today year 12 students attended an important presentation by Melissa McGuinness from YOU CHOOSE Youth Road Safety, Australia’s youth-led mission to change driving culture.

Melissa is a mother of three children who  lives with the loss of her 18-year-old son, Jordan, who died in a car crash in 2012 in which his choices also killed four other innocent young people.

YOU CHOOSE messages are confronting, though extremely important for young people and their decision making as drivers and passengers. Many students were moved to profound introspection about their own families, which is the intent behind the mission's motto - Own the Choice Own the Outcome.  

The program challenged students to consider how they will personally seek leadership in road safety, live life to its fullest, protect their loved ones; and be truly accountable in situations where they need to place their safety and wellbeing at the forefront of decision making.  

We have asked students to share the YOU CHOOSE mission with you, and to discuss what they have taken from the program. We strongly urge you to engage in this conversation with your teen; and to encourage them to complete the (anonymous) survey link they received after the presentation.

As a fully registered non-for-profit charity, YOU CHOOSE relies on donations to take important messages about Love, Family, Leadership and the Empowerment of Choice to school communities around Australia. Parents are invited to contribute at https://www.youchooseyrs.org.au/support-you-choose/donate/ 

For more information, please visit http://youchooseyrs.org.au/ or click the following links: 

• You Choose Information Vide: You Choose Information Video
• QPS 2020 Christmas Road Safety Campaign: QPS 2020 Xmas Campaign
• QLD Australian of the Year 2021 and 2022: Qld Aust Of The Year Award
• SBS Insight: SBS Insight 
• Today Show interview with George Gardner: The Today Show 2020-06-04 YT
• A Current Affair coverage of the You Choose Program: Facebook Link You Tube Clip
• Studio 10: Studio 10 Fatality Free Friday May 28 2020
• 2021-03-18 – 2GB with Jim Wilson: 2021-03-18 2GB with Jim Wilson

Andrea Huxley
Year 12 Leader of Pastoral Care 

Wellbeing

Restorative Practices - Working in Partnership

A significant aspect of Restorative Practices at MacKillop College is the partnership with parents. All parents and carers are heavily invested in the College and our restorative practices approach acknowledges the need to understand, work with and form positive working relationships.

Check out this article from Adam Voigt from Real Schools. This is an example of professional reading to guide the development of a restorative culture within MacKillop College.

Warren Lorger
Leader of Wellbeing - Behaviour Support

Parent Webinar

Sport News

MacKillop College Athletics Carnival

Our Annual College Athletics Carnival has been postponed to 22 July, Term 3. The Pre-events will be held on Tuesday 19 and Tuesday 26 July.

This carnival is a compulsory day for all students in Years 7-12 and is a highlight of our sporting calendar. It is an opportunity for students to embrace their House spirit by dressing up in House colours and getting involved in all events whether it be the competitive or novelty events.

YEAR 9 & 10

Students in Years 9 and 10 Sport have elective sport this term. Students will participate in eight weeks of sport plus two weeks of athletics practice prior to our Carnival.

If students cannot attend sport they are required to provide a signed note to Erin Denham outlining why your child cannot participate. If it is an ongoing injury or illness a doctor’s certificate is required.

Year 9 & 10 Sport Selections Term 3

Students in Years 9 and 10 will make their Term 3 Sport selections next week (Week 7). These selections will be open on Monday, 6 June at 8:45am and close on Tuesday, 7 June at 3:00pm.

The survey link will be emailed to student’s school email accounts with a unique code – please do not try and use a previous term code, it will not work. If you are away on the day, the survey link can still be accessed at home.

The options to select are below:

Year 9 Term 3 Options

Year 10 Term 3 Options

Representative Sport Success

CCC Cup Under 18s Round 1 Report

On Tuesday, 17 May our Under 18 Boys Rugby League team played in the CCC Cup.

The conditions were perfect for the boys with the sun shining and a slight breeze. The boys played St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour in their first game and looked impressive in their first set of six. The first half was dominated by Co Captains Josh Power and Hudson Harmer, with Hudson scoring a hat-trick and Wil Rosenbaum chiming into the backline off a kick in broken play to score, going into the break with a convincing lead of 22-0.

The boys were determined to finish the game as they started quickly piling on tries with Evan Lipovac, Ethan Clarke, Wil Rosenbaum and Harper Murray all scoring tries. Harry Robb chased a kick down field and managed an impressive tap back in field to keep the ball alive with yet another try being scored. Ethan Tombs was impressive off the boot, converting six of the tries.

Our second game was against Newman Senior Technical College and was always going to be tightly contested. The boys knew they had to muscle up in defence and maintain possession if they were to have a chance of winning. Our forwards Mosese, Jacob, Tom and Ethan were impressive in both games, continually getting over the advantage line and making crucial meters setting a platform for our backs to go on attacking raids.  It was great to see Lenny inject himself more in this game and steer the boys around. Noah moved into hooker to give Hudson a break and made some valuable meters through the ruck.

Evan, Noah, and Lenny all scored tries with Harper crossing the line for a second time in the day. His second phase support play off the back of Ethan and Lenny was impressive. Wil and Braydan were strong in attack and defence ensuring we weren’t outplayed on our edges.

There were times in this match where the boys were tested however they maintained their composure and discipline and made sure they came away winners 22-8.

Congratulations to Wil Rosenbaum on being named Players Player. Wil was impressive to watch, especially in defence where he proved a handful for both teams.

Thank you to Jesse Fisher for running water for the boys and to the parents that came along and showed your support. It was so great to see the boys back out on the field playing footy and doing what they love.

Erin Denham
Coach

Bill Turner Girls Round 2 Report

The Girls Bill Turner team were finally able to take to the field last week after a long wait. The girls had the bye in the first round and then due to rain, our Round 2 game was delayed.

We came up against our sister school St Joseph's Regional College. While it wasn’t ideal conditions having to play on the Hockey fields, the girls did not let this deter them from putting on a solid show.

It was a shame to start the game without Claire Morris and Nyah Villagran-Eichmann, both unfortunately sustaining broken wrists. Replacements Gracie Huxley and Arliah Morris slotted into the team with ease.

Our girls were well led with Lani Logan-Pye, Zora Boskovski, Abby Buttsworth and Charlee Bailey demonstrating great skill and leadership. Newcomers Hannah Gresswell, Arliah Morris and Ziva Balkin proved a handful for the opposition's defence putting together several great attacking raids with Hannah finding the back of the net to put us up 1-0 early on. Arliah also found the back of the net not long after taking us into halftime 2-0.

We had a bit of a wobble early in the second half when we scored an own goal and Regional scored an absolute screamer from a corner kick taking the score line to 3-1.

Our backs Daisy Pees and Isabella Campbell, Kyla Roach, Olivia Blake and Frieda Dudfield did a fantastic job in keeping out the opposition after this - no easy feat as Regional’s girls seemed to tower over us and had some skillful players upfront.

I was impressed by our two goalkeepers Audrey Woolnough and Meredith Davies who were under pressure several times in the game. Congratulations to Hannah Gresswell who was named Best and Fairest.

Congratulations girls - you were a pleasure to coach. We now wait to hear who our next opponent will be in Round 3 against either SCAS or Melville High School.

Erin Denham
Coach

Bill Turner Boys Round 2 Report

The boys’ Bill Turner soccer team had their first game against St Joseph’s Regional College. Due to the bad weather the game had to be played on the hockey fields, which required a change in tactics. St Joseph’s dominated possession from the beginning of the game and our defense was under increased pressure. We were fortunate to go into halftime with the game tied.

The second half continued in the same fashion but we did have a couple of counter attacks. With 10 minutes remaining we were unfortunate to concede an own goal. Despite this the boys kept trying and we were rewarded with an equalizer when Tyler Morris chased the ball down and forced the ball over the line.

This sent the game into extra time. St Joseph’s kept attacking but we managed to hold them out. This meant the game would be decided on a penalty shootout. Braeden Fuller managed to save three of their penalties and this led us to a 3-1 victory. We move on to play St Columba in the next round.

David Pugh
Coach

NSWCCC Football

It was fantastic to see Grace Davies and Jack Page trial for the NSWCCC Open’s Football teams in Glenwood on 4 and 5 May. While neither made the team, Grace said that she had a fantastic experience and Jack was recognised by the selectors as being the strongest Lismore Diocesan player. Unfortunately, Alanah Logan-Pye was unable to attend the trial.  

Northern Country Rugby League

Well done to Beau Chegwidden, Hudson Harmer, Cooper Lorger and Josh Power who played for their respective Northern Country Rugby League teams in Sydney on 20 May.

The boys enjoyed the experience and held their own against sizeable opposition. Special congratulations to Josh Power who was named Player’s Player in the second game, and to Copper Lorger on being named in the NSW Under 15 Country Development Team. This is a great opportunity for Cooper as he goes to a camp in Sydney for a week, and gets to be mentored by former NRL player Mitch Aubusson.

Diocesan Cross Country

On Friday, 20 May 53 MacKillop students competed at the Diocesan Cross Country Championships in Grafton and produced some amazing results.

Congratulations to the following students who won their race on the day and are now part of the Diocesan cross country team to race at the CCC Cross country at Eastern Creek in June. Maeve Kinchington, Kiana Osmond-Dreyer, Connor Haak and Ryan Binskin.

MacKillop also had another 15 students who placed in the top 6 who now join the Diocesan cross country team to progress to the next level in Sydney. They are as follows: Charlotte Taylor, Lane Jordan, Lily Taylor, Sally Temple, Tia McGrath, Angele Field, Tahlia Power, Peter Field, Preston Davis, Freycin Hostettler, Jarvis Lineham, Edward Coombes, Tyse Thrower, Tobias Toohey and Jack Page.

MacKillop College also proudly walked away, or should we say ran away, with the Champion School trophy.

We would like to congratulate all the athletes who competed on the day for their outstanding behavior and sportsmanship both on and off the track.

Thanks must go to Stewart Smith, Mackenzie Murray and Gretel Worner for giving up their time to take the team away to play.

We wish all the athletes the best of luck at the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships in Sydney.  

Jo Pilgrim
Manager

Registrations and Upcoming Events

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

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

Click on this link to register.

Lismore Diocesan Events and Registration

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

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

NSWCCC Events and Registration

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

Registration is through the CSNSW Sport portal. Find details here: how to register.

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

Please note that the NSWCCC Sport registrations for individual nominations for 2022 selections are open for the following trials:

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

NSW All Schools – Events

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

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

Music Ministry

Well done and thank you to all students involved in the Collective Praise Band. This ensemble was extremely busy last week providing music for Year 7 Mass, Reconciliation Mass and the Youth Mass! We are blessed to have such talented and dedicated students at our school and we are grateful for the service they provide to our school and parish community.

The following students are members of the Collective:

Olly Henry, Seppe Beeckmans, Rhys Kendal, Daniel Zhong, Julia Helena Streegan, Olivia Blake, Macey Arkinstall, Georgia Ryan, Jiya Jamu, Alexandra Bransdon, Abbie Brennan, Emily Galvin, Lara Inman and Adam Bryant.

At Reconciliation Mass these students were also supported by Alice Barnaby, Chloe Dray Pongos, Mosese Fineanganofo and Sam Adams.

I would also like to acknowledge the assistance provided by Cara Stewart and our music trainee Tom Steele who work tirelessly behind the scenes setting up and packing away equipment.

If you sing, play guitar, keyboard or drums and are interested in joining the Collective, please contact Rob Denham for more information.

Slice of Haven

On Sunday, 29 May attendees at the 2022 Slice Of Haven event were treated to performances by the St. Agnes' Parish Primary and Secondary Schools' Junior and Senior Drumlines. Each drumline performed twice for the amazed onlookers, as they each performed an assortment of exercises, cadences, and selections from their upcoming Eisteddfod competition shows. The Junior Drumline consists of 13 students from across the parish and their floor show is titled "Perpetual Motion", while the Senior Drumline consists of 20 members and are hard at work putting the finishing touches on their show titled "Danse Macabre."

Due to such large crowds they were unable to do any of their marching maneuvers and were without the visual assistance of the Colour Guard, but with future public performances around town on the cards they look forward to showcasing their talents for the Hastings locals before this year's Eisteddfod competition. The Senior Drumline are the four times Defending National Champions and are working hard to retain their crown, while the Junior Drumline is looking forward to their first ever competition, competing in the B Grade/Second Division.

The members of the Drumlines always represent themselves, their schools, and the Parish well, so stay tuned for future pics, video footage and competition updates.

Flood Appeal Concert

Two matinee Flood Appeal Concerts organised by local musicians Robyn Ryan OAM and Jim Matsinos will take place on Saturday, 4 and Sunday 5 June in the MacKillop College theatre from 2:00pm. All proceeds will be contributed to the Diocesan Flood Appeal.

The MacKillop College Senior Band will open the Saturday performance whilst the College Saxophone Ensemble will open the concert on Sunday.

Both concerts are open to the public with tickets available at the door.

We hope to see you there!

Open Mic Night

Wave Bowl Port Macquarie are hosting an Open Mic night on Thursday 9 June! This is a wonderful opportunity for MacKillop musicians to perform!

For more information please contact Wave Bowl or see Rob Denham.

Artwalk

Artwalk is taking place again in Port Macquarie on Friday 10 June from 5:00pm-9:00pm. The MacKillop College Senior Band, Saxophone ensemble and selected senior soloists will be performing from 6:00pm, whilst the SAPSS Drumlines and Colour Guard will be performing later in the evening from 8:00pm.

This is a wonderful creative community event that we are excited to be supporting.

For  more information visit the website https://portmacquarieinfo.com.au/artwalk/program

ENSEMBLE REHEARSALS TERM 2

LINKS & FORMS

Music Ensemble Sign Up Form

Music Tuition Request Form

Co curricular Music Google Classroom

Senior Band STILE PAGE

Junior Band STILE PAGE

The Collective Pop & Rock Praise Band STILE PAGE

Saxophone Ensemble Google Classroom

Musical Theatre Company Google Classroom

UPCOMING EVENTS

Live music is well and truly back at MacKillop College!

Could I please ask that families read through the events listed below and take note on calendars. More detail will be provided to students in rehearsal and specific information for each event emailed when necessary.

It is important that ensemble members inform their respective directors IMMEDIATELY if they are unavailable to participate.

FLOOD RELIEF CONCERT #1 (Senior Band)

• Week 6 - Saturday 4 June, 2:00pm - 4:00pm, Theatre, Senior Band.

FLOOD RELIEF CONCERT #1 (Saxophone Ensemble)

• Week 6 - Sunday 5 June, 2:00pm - 4:00pm, Theatre, Saxophone Ensemble.

ARTWALK PERFORMANCE (Senior Band, Senior Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble & SAPSS Snr/Jnr Drumlines and Colour Guard)

• Week 7 - Friday 10 June, 5:00pm - 9:00pm, Skate Park Port Macquarie, Senior Band, Senior Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble and SAPSS Snr/Jnr Drumlines and colour guard).

YOUTH MASS (Collective)

• Week 8 - Sunday 19 June, 4:15pm - 6:00pm, St Agnes Catholic Church, Collective Pop & Rock Praise Band.

ASSEMBLY PERFORMANCE (Musical Theatre Company)

• Week 9 - Wednesday 22 June, Period 1, College Hall, Musical Theatre Company

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

Robert Denham

Leader of Co-Curricular Music

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 on line.

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

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

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

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

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

Monday 6 June
Mayo Brumby, Sue Moore-Jones and Nicole Galea

Tuesday 7 June 
Maggie Nash and Help Please

Wednesday 8 June 
Roz Brockhurst and Danielle Sen Gupta

Thursday 9 June
Heather Sheers and Chris Jourdant 

Friday 10 June
Pupil Free Day

Monday 13 June 
Public Holiday

Tuesday 14 June
Emily Duffy and Chris Pees

Wednesday 15 June
Bec Eakin, Sarah Dahalenberg and Judy Ryan

Thursday 16 June 
Hannah Temple, Kaylene Monckton and Verena Gandy

Friday 17 June
Kristine Fallon, Sam Harrison and Jane Keegan

Canteen Help Needed

We are in need of some parent assistance for canteen. For more information and requirements on volunteering in the Canteen, or if you are able to volunteer, please follow this link. 

Homework Hubs

Maths Tutorials

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

Room 12 Main College with Elizabeth Robertson