Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Dear Parents/Guardians and Friends of the College,
We are very near the end of another academic year, and not surprisingly, it has been very busy over the last two weeks. This newsletter is the second last of the year.
Our Years 7-10 students finished their classes this week and the Years 11 and 12 students finished up earlier on. Over the last week or so, the students have been undertaking final assessments. Years 9 and 10 students sat their exams and Years 7 and 8 students have been completing a variety of assessment tasks. The Year 11 students completed the year undertaking the “Kick Start” program to prepare them for either the Year 12 VCE or VCAL program.
As a College community, we have held very significant events such as Mosaic and the Year 12 Valedictory Dinner. Our Year Level Coordinators (7-11) have each organised a “final assembly” to celebrate and reflect on their students’ year, give thanks to God for the many blessings during the year and to provide the opportunity for expressions of gratitude to staff members who have supported the students’ learning and wellbeing. I thank our Year Level Coordinators, Ms Leonie O’Brien (7), Ms Deb Hodge (8), Mr Joe Pannuzzo (9), Mr Brendan O’Brien (10), Ms Kristin Williamson (11) and Mr Joe McLean (12) for their leadership and management of their respective year levels and for their work to ensure a smooth and purposeful finish to the year for our students. I acknowledge the help our Liturgy Coordinator, Mr Brendan Nicholls provided for ensuring each Year Level participated in a meaningful and prayerful liturgy to finish the year.
Semester Two Parent Reports
Parents of Years 7-11 students will be able to access the Semester Two reports via the ‘Xuno’ portal from 4 pm on Thursday 12th December. These will provide an excellent basis for parents to discuss with their daughters and sons the progress made during the year and to begin to set some student goals for 2020.
Mosaic Evening
Our annual Mosaic Evening at Costa Hall was again an exceptional and important whole school event. Thank you to all the families who were able to attend. A strong school community enhances positive outcomes for our young people.
As in previous years, Mosaic was a wonderful celebration of very impressive student achievement across a variety of areas. I congratulate all students who received awards or presented the results of their learning (Art and Technology Displays) or performed on the evening (Music, Dance and Drama) – well done!
It was impossible to acknowledge all student achievements, and I congratulate all students who have tried their best throughout the year. It is also hard to show off some of the aspects of school life that we value. Examples include students supporting each other and going quietly about their learning and making the most of the opportunities they have to discover and develop their gifts and talents and being of service to others.
Thank you to our hard-working staff for organising and running this evening – most staff members played some part in supporting this community celebration. In particular, I thank Mrs Claire Hewitt for coordinating Mosaic. Photos of the event can viewed in the Photo Gallery section of our website: www.ignatius.vic.edu.au/new/our-school/photo-gallery
Leopold Senior Citizens’ Luncheon and Concert
Our College has enthusiastically supported the annual Leopold Senior Citizens’ Luncheon for the last twenty-two years. On Tuesday 26th November, about sixty students performed or waited on the tables serving the lunch prepared by the Church group for the one hundred and eighty senior citizens present at Club Italia, Moolap. As in previous years, I received many glowing comments about our students. Well done to our performers. Also, as well as serving food, many of our students need to be congratulated for the way they conversed with the guests on the day helping to make the day a special one for them. Thank you to Mrs Linda Pape (Performance Coordinator), Ms Marina Brown (Choir), Mr Paul James, Mr Angelo Scotto, Ms Caitlin Doble and several other staff members who helped out for enabling our school to support this initiative of the local Parish.
Year 12 Valedictory Evening
On Friday 29th November the annual Year 12 Valedictory Dinner/Dance was held at GMHBA Stadium, Kardinia Park, Geelong. The evening commenced with the formal presentation of the graduands and some speeches. A very enjoyable dinner/dance followed this.
A special feature of the formal part of the evening was an address by former student, Ms Stephanie Cowdery (2009) who provided an inspirational speech about her life’s journey since school. After completing a Diploma of Languages (Indonesian) and a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Psychology and Health Promotion, Ms Cowdery is currently a PhD Scholar with Deakin University School of Medicine. She is committed to investigating the nexus between physical and mental health. Ms Cowdery shared a reflection on how her learning and the values instilled at school have supported her through the ups, downs and challenges.
One of last year’s College Captains returned to promote the “Old Ignatians Association”. Dean O’Brien encouraged the Class of 2019 to keep connected to the College through membership of the alumni association. Each Year 12 student was presented with an Old Ignatian lapel badge that they will hopefully keep as a sign of their continuing connection to their secondary school.
Fr James Puppady (President of the Association of Canonical Administrators) provided the blessing and expressed his congratulations and best wishes to the students. The College Captains, Maddie Crothers and Sam Salisbury spoke fondly about many aspects of their secondary school journey, expressed gratitude to the staff and parents and wished their classmates best wishes for the next stage of their life journey.
Thank you to the organising committee and in particular, Mr Joe McLean (YLC) and Ms Dani Stanesby. As in previous years, the evening was conducted in a positive, happy and respectful way.
Photos of the event can viewed in the Photo Gallery section of our website: www.ignatius.vic.edu.au/new/our-school/photo-gallery
Year 12 studies 2020 - Unit 3 Orientation Program
Thank you to the Senior School team of teachers for providing a valuable Orientation Program over the last week and a half to prepare the Year 11 students for next year. It is essential that these students use some of the holiday time to prepare for the undertaking of their Unit 3 subjects. Teachers have given guidelines and provided preparatory work. The students have a responsibility to take advantage of this and not turn up next year finding themselves behind the rest of the class. Can I please encourage parents to support this expectation? I expect that our senior students give their academic program the priority it deserves and other undertakings will need to fit in around their studies. I want all students, as I am sure parents do, to have the best chance of achieving to the best of their ability and this will be enhanced if the prevailing atmosphere is one where students are encouraging each other to do their best with their studies.
The Potato Shed Wetlands beautification project
I commend VCAL Teacher, Mr Attel Martschinke, for his leadership and management of this project.
During 2019, many Saint Ignatius College students and some staff have contributed over 400 individual hours towards this project. This includes:
During these sessions, staff and students of SICG have:
On the 12th December 2019, Mr Martschinke and Mr John Clatworthy will be running two more staff planting sessions with the aim to plant the remaining 278 trees.
We hope to continue this worthwhile project in 2020, partnering with the management team at The Potato Shed and the Landscape Architect at the City of Greater Geelong.
Well done to everyone involved.
Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) Perth
Tomorrow, eleven senior students and Mr Nicholls, Ms Deak, Ms Kearney and College Chaplain, Fr James Puppady will travel to Perth for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival. They will return from this very special opportunity next week on Thursday 12th December.
ACYF will be a national gathering of Catholic young people in Perth. It was established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC) “to provide young people with opportunities to deepen their relationship with Jesus, be empowered to be disciples in the world today and encounter and celebrate the vitality of the Church in Australia.”
ACYF has been designed to:
Please pray for the success of the festival. On behalf of our College community, I wish all participants an enriching and faith enhancing experience. Thank you to the Melbourne Archdiocese for its organisation of the trip and contributing towards the cost for our students.
Final days of the school year
Next Tuesday we will conduct the Orientation Day for the grade six students attending Saint Ignatius next year. We look forward to welcoming 250 students to Year 7 for next year.
The next and final newsletter for the year will be available on the afternoon of Thursday 19th December 2019.
The commencement date for the 2020 school year
Please note that classes for all Year levels will commence on the same day next year – Friday 31st January 2020.
Advent Season
Last Sunday, we commenced the Advent period of the Church’s calendar, the beginning of a new Church year. The Advent period is a time of waiting and preparing for Christmas.
“Lord, you sent us Jesus your Son to bring light to our darkness and lead us to eternal life. As we begin this Advent season, enkindle within us the deep desire to seek him in all things.
Lord, you fashioned our hearts to be satisfied with nothing less than Your love which overflows for us in Christ. As we journey through Advent, rekindle within us your gift of hope, and turn our expectant waiting into readiness to welcome Him in all persons we meet.
We ask you this in his name. Amen”
Best wishes,
Michael Exton Principal
On Tuesday our Year 9 and 10 students celebrated their final day for 2019. After the exams concluded we came together in the afternoon to celebrate a liturgy of thanks and contemplation. The theme of the liturgy was Advent and the question, “Is there room in your heart?” was the central component of our time together. The following day we said farewell to our Year 7 and 8 students for the year. As they head off to their long break we pray that they will all make use of the time to create balance and wholeness in their life. The central question of our middle school Advent liturgy and the vision it offers is just as relevant to our junior students, staff and parents.
During Advent we prepare for and celebrate the birth of Jesus. The narrative we know so well is woven together from the Gospels of Mark and Luke. This miraculous event begins with the Annunciation where the angel Gabriel reveals God’s plan to Mary. Her response leads to the incarnation of the third person of the Trinity. Jesus enters the world in humble, even dire, circumstances. Jesus knew stability for a short period of his youth. Throughout most of his life he had no home.
Exploring the birth of Jesus and his life is cyclic in our Church as we live through the liturgical seasons each year our beliefs are questioned, nourished and strengthened. These beliefs unite us as a faith community. Although these beliefs are communal they are deeply personal in nature. Faith is a choice.
To come to a mature decision about their personal faith the young people in our community need to grapple with the extraordinary events of his life, death and resurrection. These questions are balanced by spiritual experiences and personal encounters with Jesus. For our young people the core beliefs of our Church were accepted as children through the lens of literalism and accepted without question. As young adults we encourage them to question the reason for their belief. Determining the foundation of their faith brings maturity and commitment to our shared beliefs.
For young adults the Annunciation and the Nativity require careful consideration and discernment. Important questions arise in contemplating the coming of Jesus. Why did God choose Mary? How could she believe in this revelation and be open to God’s plan? Why was Jesus born in a stable and how does this reflect his divinity? Was it all as clean and pleasant as they Christmas cards portray? Who is this Jesus? How can I believe? Why do I believe? Is my belief based on truth? What is truth and how can I know it?
In leaving us for the summer holidays we encourage them to explore their beliefs and to question how they know truth. Discerning the reason for their belief is vital if they are to grow in faith. To grow they need to spend time listening. The Holy Spirit moves within each of us but the busyness of life and the distractions that surround us can make it hard to experience this fact.
During Advent our students are able to use their time as they choose. The challenge presented in our liturgy on Tuesday was to make a decision to use this time to explore their belief in the Annunciation and Nativity by making room in their heart for the Spirit to move. This challenge can be entered into in an unlimited number of ways. St Ignatius teaches us to “find God in all things”. During these weeks of preparation, we encourage our students to use this as a guide in their search. Their search should be intentional and active. With vision that is not obscured by routines, assignments and community they are better able to see clearly what is before them. If they look they will find Jesus.
Seeking Jesus will lead to encounter. When they encounter Jesus they will experience wholeness. A moment with Jesus is often described as a perfect moment or transcendent. These moments of encounter are often fleeting and unexpected. Even though we can’t predict these encounters the more we seek him the more aware of his presence we become.
Our students have much time to explore this Advent. They have been sent out on a mission and challenged to make a commitment to examining their beliefs and the reason for them. To do so they need to make a choice. The question, “Is there room in your heart for Jesus?”, is the prompt we offer through our Advent liturgy to enter into the season and seek our Lord in their lives.
Although we will not see our students for almost two months we know that they have been inspired to reflect upon Advent and their faith. If belief has a weak foundation it waivers when challenged. If belief is founded on a personal encounter with Jesus it’s unbreakable. During Advent we are called to make room for Jesus. Making room requires our young people to seek truth and experience Jesus in their lives. When these events occur Jesus has an abode, a place to rest and live eternally. Our heart becomes his home.
Yours in faith,
Brendan Nicholls Liturgy Coordinator
Last Friday night we celebrated the Valedictory Dinner for the Class of 2019. The dinner was a formal event held in the evening at GMHBA Stadium. At the event students, families and teachers came together to enjoy a night where we presented certificates to recognise and farewell the students and to wish them well for the future.
I would like to acknowledge all those who presented on the evening especially our College Captains, Madeleine Crothers and Samuel Salisbury and Ms. Stephanie Cowdery (Class of 2009) for her keynote address to the College community.
To all the Year 12 students and families who are leaving us this year, on behalf of College and the school community, I congratulate you and wish you all the best for the future. I would also like to thank the Year 12 students for their hard work and contributions to the College, but also being beacons of character and inspiration for the younger students to follow.
Joe McLean Year 12 Coordinator
You can see more photos from the evening in the Photo Gallery section of our website: www.ignatius.vic.edu.au/new/our-school/photo-gallery
Mosaic is a celebration, held annually with our families and guests from our wider community, in November at Costa Hall, and recognises our participation, hard work and achievements during the year at Saint Ignatius College.
At our recent Mosaic 2019, the outer foyer displays continued to be of great interest with numerous displays, presentations and performances which “spilled" over in all directions taking up almost the entire outer foyer floor space. dynamic and engaging. We were very proud of our students-stationed at foyer displays and speaking with families, for their work displayed and foyer entertainment, and in the auditorium addressing the audience, receiving awards and fully immersing themselves in musical performances.
Families and other guests continued to enjoy the showcase moving from the foyer into the auditorium to be entertained with the “Prelude" of music from the Junior, Intermediate and Senior Combed band, followed by a welcome to Mosaic - in the auditorium - from Mr. Paul Lewis, MC, and with an onstage prance-about by our College mascot Iggy.
The opening prayer was read by our Liturgy Captains 2020 and was followed by a beautiful ‘Prayer in Song’. Two most engaging videos of the year's events and activities delighted us all: “2019 The Year That Was” produced by Michael Tod and the Sports video by Andrew Philp.
There was a variety of stellar performances which included a medley of songs from our recent, highly successful College Production, " School of Rock”.
Students received their awards, including those from our wider community, in a dignified, proud and grateful manner. We heard from many including our Principal, Michael Exton, and Fr. James Puppady, Head of the College’s Canonical Administrators and St. Patrick’s Old Collegians Association Alumni award winner Molly Cross, Class of 2018, who, earlier this year, undertook a Jesuit Cardoner Project immersion and community service in Central America.
Sponsorships and goods were kindly provided from the wider community for our awards for which we are most grateful.
Guests included our College families, representatives from our Board, the College’s Parents and Friends' Association, former staff, alumni, representatives from community service clubs, St Patricks Old Collegians Association and Deakin University.
Congratulations and many thanks to everyone for making such an impressive and memorable night.
Claire Hewitt Mosaic Coordinator
This year, 48 lucky Year 8 students were chosen to go to Wollangarra, an outdoor education experience in Victoria’s high country. As there were so many students selected, the camp was split into 2 groups: Camp 1 (14th - 18th October) and Camp 2 (28th October - 1st November). Little did we all know this was going to be one of the most challenging camps we’d ever been on.
We gathered at the bus stop at 7 am and within 10 minutes, we were off. After a nearly six hour drive, we arrived to a gated paddock which was not what anyone was expecting. We then walked for about 5 minutes, until we reached the flying fox which was the only way across the Macalister River to the homestead. We yelled out “Coo-ee!” symbolising that we had officially arrived at Wollangarra; this told the others at the homestead that we were there and needed help with the flying fox. There are no mobile phones or texting capabilities there! We gathered together whilst one of the volunteers, Izzy Borley, an ex- Saint Ignatius student, took us through an Acknowledgement to Country and we paid our respect to the indigenous people who are the traditional custodians of this land we would soon hike. We held on tight to our backpacks as we flew across the river and dropped a rock, watching it fall into the water beneath us to symbolise us arriving and being ready for a new opportunity. Once we all reached the other side, we walked through a patch of trees and arrived at the beautiful homestead.
We were welcomed into Wollangarra by a bunch of camp leaders who live there. They were all very kind, funny and we enjoyed being around them all. We gathered to have a chat and this is where we learnt that we wouldn’t know the time, as they have a no watch policy, throughout our whole stay. Everyone then split into groups to help out around the homestead. We got a short tour then we got stuck into our work. Some people cooked a delicious dinner for later on that night or made snacks for the hike; others helped clear garden beds and plant new vegetables; and some even cleaned up and repaired things. Once we finished our jobs, we were left to explore a little more, swim in the river and get to know each other better. Night time came around quickly and we all gathered around the fire enjoying our dinner and telling stories.
We woke early Tuesday morning to a “Coo-ee” which notified us that breakfast was ready. We sat around the fire and enjoyed our toast which we cooked on the fire. After breakfast was done, we dove straight into the preparation for the hike. We filled our packs with a minimal amount of clothes, a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, tent or a tarp, basic toiletries, a bowl, cup, spoon and gear for the whole camp group. This was divided between the group and consisted of: food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, munchies, pots, a fire lighting kit, emergency food, the toilet bag and a shovel. In the end, our packs weighed around 12 - 15 kilograms.
Shortly after we packed, we headed out on what was the first real hiking experience for many of us. The group was split into two and we headed in opposite directions. Both groups were faced with a very challenging and arduous hike. One group went straight up an acute, unforgiving ascent and then down the other side of the mountain. The other group had a slightly flatter start until they reached a steep four wheel drive track which they had to walk down. This day was extremely tough for most of us and we were very relieved to reach our campsite after walking all day. One group arrived at Burgoyne’s hut and the other at Banana flat. Both of the groups were pretty shocked by what the campsites looked like as they were very basic but everyone soon realised that there really wasn’t much we needed as we had these beautiful surroundings.
Upon arrival, we set up our tarps/tents and went down to the river for a wonderful, refreshing swim. Soon it was time to head back to the campsite to prepare our dinner. Interestingly, Camp 1 had cold weather, rain and slept in tents, but Camp 2 had hot, sunny weather and slept under tarps. Once dinner was ready, we all gathered around the warm fire and enjoyed the lovely food along with hot chocolate and tea. Then shortly after, we all headed off to bed, exhausted after the long day’s trekking. Sleeping out in the open was an incredible experience. The people in Camp 2 could see out of the tarps up to the clear sky lit up by the stars. We could hear every sound in the night from kangaroos in the distance to the soft breeze blowing amongst the trees. It was magical!
We woke up bright and early to the delightful nature that we were so lucky to be in. Our porridge had been prepared and shortly after, we filled our water bottles, packed up and went off on our second day’s hike. Both groups went on the same path and crossed in the middle. It was good to hear the others’ stories. We stopped at a few beautiful locations and got the chance to swim. This day was very eventful for some, including Jamai, who had a fall and cut his head on Camp 2 but he was very brave and after a quick patch up, was back on his way. We switched destinations with the other group and either arrived at Banana flat or Burgoyne’s hut for our last night of camping. We set up our camp and some of us started making dinner along with our camp leaders. Days on the hike seemed to fly by, especially since we had no clue what time it was. We once again got the chance to swim and hang around the warm fire.
That night, we had some reflection time as a group. Ms Spencer had previously asked us to write a letter about something that we were having trouble moving on from or that had really affected us emotionally. It could be something that had angered us in the past or present, or something we wanted to stop or forget. We threw our letters in the fire and let them burn as we thought about what we wrote and let the frustration and energy go, ready for a fresh start.
The next day we once again had our porridge, filled our water bottles, packed up and were off on our third and final day of hiking. It was another gruelling yet exhilarating day. There’s not really one way to describe what the hike was like as everyone had different opinions and experiences. Some people enjoyed it immensely and appreciated the beautiful scenery we were in, whilst some found it incredibly hard and way outside their comfort zone. Others were on the fence as they may have liked the experience and the people but the hiking really tested them, along with perhaps the camping and hygiene. Either way, we were surrounded by this amazing outdoors and people 24/7 and once we had finished, we were all so very glad but relieved that we’d done. At the time some of us thought we couldn’t conquer the mountains but we were all so proud and thankful that we could now call ourselves successful warriors.
As we hiked the last few kilometres, we had in sight the flying fox which took us back to Wollangarra. By this point, many people were just grateful to be back and not to have to carry around a heavy pack. We were reunited with the other group and had a much needed swim in the beautiful, cool river. We then hung out at the homestead for the next few hours after we helped the camp leaders with a few jobs and unpacked our packs. At dinner time we dressed up ‘op shop’ style and reminisced about our days in the mountains. That night was full of fun and laughs as we all enjoyed each other's company for our last dinner together. We then found ourselves at the firepit where we continued to tell stories and jokes, and had a few talented members of the group sing for us.
Waking up to camp leader, Jen’s trombone, the next morning was definitely interesting, to say the least. Breakfast was served for the last time and we gathered around the fire for warmth. The next few hours were basically everyone packing their things, double checking rooms and last minute trips to the toilet before the big drive home. We finally took off on our last little walk to the bus, a more gentle, relaxed stroll compared to the hike. At the bus, we said goodbye to our camp leaders whom we got to know really well and developed friendships with. Finally, we were on the bus for the long drive home. We stopped for lunch and it was strange to be back in civilization and eating food that was pre-packaged and not healthy and wholesome like we had had all week.
Every day whilst we walked, there was times of complete silence and time to reflect. Many expressed satisfaction that they made it to the end of the hike. The feeling of accomplishment we achieved was like no other. We learnt how much we take things for granted, such as showers and toilets, and the whole experience without time and technology made it so much more enjoyable and less distracting. In the end, we shared many jokes, challenges and got to see each other in a completely different way. Wollangarra is certainly going to be a memory that we won’t forget for a long, long time.
A massive, special thanks goes out to:
Ms. Spencer, who put hours and hours of work into this camp, ensuring it was a great experience for all of us.
Mrs. Hodge, who after much hard work with Ms. Spencer, got us two camps instead of one, allowing more kids to have this wonderful opportunity.
Mrs. Frigo and Ms. Kearney, who accompanied us on Camp 1. They made camp more funny, enjoyable and took very good care of us all. We are thankful to them for taking time away from their families and lives for us.
Mr Tod and Ms. Spencer, who accompanied us on Camp 2. They brought a lot of smiles to our faces, supported us the whole way through and made camp heaps more enjoyable. We are all very thankful to them giving up time with their families and friends to be with us for that week.
For anyone who is lucky enough to be given the opportunity to go to Wollangarra, we would most definitely recommend it and are so glad we took on this massive challenge. Many of us wished that we had been better prepared physically so that would be our advice to future students. We all agree that the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the camp! It’s a great way to make new friends, see your teachers in a different light and connect with them so they will be someone you can always trust and go to. Well done to my fellow peers for surviving the mountains!
Eve Wells 8 Campion
We congratulate Saint Ignatius staff member, Ms. Rebekah Spencer, for being presented a Rotary Club "Paul Harris Recognition" by Drysdale Rotarian, Mr. Bruce Van Every at Mosaic last week.
She was named as a Paul Harris Fellow - international recognition given to an individual - Rotarian or non-Rotarian - who lives or works in the area of a club in recognition of long and meritorious service to the community that fulfills the ideals of Rotary, particularly Service above Self, for her work in fundraisng for the Heart Foundation.
Mrs Claire Hewitt Development Manager
Student success in their Music Exams
During the year many of our students have attempted music examinations. Three of our recent successful candidates, Emily (Clarinet), Lilie (Alto Saxophone) and Grace (Clarinet), all completed their Australian Music Examinations Boards exams at different levels. This involves preparing technical work such as scales and arpeggios and numerous pieces of music that are performed with a piano accompanist. Congratulations on this wonderful achievement!
Concert Bands performing on December 10th – Orientation Day
Year 7 Honours Band (Semester 2)
Junior Concert Band
Intermediate Symphonic Winds
Senior Symphonic Winds
Congratulations to all of the Concert Bands who have performed on numerous occasions over the last term; at the Opening and Blessing of the New Multi-Purpose Centre, Year 8 Market Day, Leopold Senior Citizens, Year 7 Instrumental Show Case. We are proud of their musical achievements and their commitment to the program. Certainly, all of the bands have shown significant growth in student numbers over the course of the year.
All of the bands will perform at the 2020, Year 7 Orientation Day on Tuesday December 12th from 12:30 – 3pm. The students involved in all four concert bands have been sent Care Monkey letters with further details.
We are very grateful for all of the students that will attend the up-coming event as this takes place in the holidays but it provides an invaluable insight into the program for our in-coming students.
Year 9 and 10 Music Night
Students studying the music elective in Semester II, gave an exceptional performance at the Potato Shed recently for an appreciative audience of family and friends. Students in Year 9 presented some of their compositions as well as group and solo performances. Students in Year 10 presented some of the repertoire they were preparing for a studio recording day. Thank you to Trent, who assisted in providing sound and lighting at the event.
Year 10 at the Oxygen Music Recording Studio
Over the semester, students of the Year 10 Music Industry Class have been immersed in industry related practical and theoretical learning tasks. As a culmination of the course, the students spent a full day recording in the ‘Don’t Poke the Bear’; professional recording studios in Geelong West. The students recorded a number of songs in small groups and as solos. This is an event first for Saint Ignatius College and we are grateful to Oxygen Music group for providing the facilities au gratis. We are also very thankful to sound engineer, Dan Sikita, who worked on our project. The students agreed that the experience was a highlight of the term and gave an insight into the world of Music Industry possibilities.
Veronica Marrie
VCE Soiree
VCE music students commenced the fourth term with the annual Soiree held at Terindah Estate. This soiree is to showcase the works they have been rehearsing throughout the semester.
Many thanks to the instrumental tutors who prepared these students and to the parents and friends who came along to support the students. It was a wonderful evening and the students performed beautifully. Thanks also to Cate and Peter Slattery for their support at Terindah Estate.
Assembly
Percussion students recently performed at our final assembly for the Year 12s. Thanks to Mr Corrin for directing this very entertaining ensemble.
Thanks also to our two Year 12 vocalists, Jack Woodfine and Callum Branch, who also performed at the assembly. It was such a treat for me to have a photo taken with our College captain, Heidi Bakker and her mother Prue. Prue is a past College captain of our college and believe it or not, I have taught both captains and both were in the College choir!
Public Speaking Competition
Congratulations to Ms Chelsea Gibb and ten of her students who recently entered the UN VOICE competition. A very special mention to three students who made it through to the finals: Lily Flight, Ellot Renton-Gibb and Emily Green.
Voice itself is a public speaking competition with a problem solving bent. Students are encouraged to present a solution to world problems and concerns. At the core of Voice is student empowerment, giving every student the confidence that they have what it takes to change the world. The process of giving a speech and answering questions mimics the day to day lives of many world leaders, meaning Voice helps develop leadership skills.
Brass/Woodwind Concert
Many thanks to Mr Tim Neal, Mrs Sally Hobbs, Mrs Veronica Marrie and Ms Naomi Cordell who prepared their students for the annual Brass/Woodwind Concert. There were a number of solos, duets and small ensembles that entertained the many parents and friends who attended.
Year 7 Showcase
It was very exciting to see the young Year 7 students perform recently in the Year 7 showcase. It is amazing to think that these students have had only two terms to practise on their instrument.
Well done to Mrs Marrie and the Year 7 music staff for this fabulous concert.
Piano/Percussion Evening
On Monday November 11th, parents and friends were entertained at the annual Piano/Percussion evening. The weather was perfect as students performed on the chill out stage in the Performing Arts area.
Special mention must be made of brothers Will and Finn Hanley who played “Funky Town” on our beautiful new Marimba. Many thanks to our instrumental tutors - Mr Adrian Montagnese, Mr Bruce Corrin, Mr Vish Vadivalu and Mr Tony Musella.
Blessing of the New Multi-Purpose Centre
Directed by Mrs Marina Brown, the choir sang the blessing hymns in the Opening Liturgy. During the actual blessing of the building by Bishop Mark, Mrs Marrie conducted the combined bands as they played “Afterburn” by Standridge. It was a fanatastic opportunity to showcase the talent of our talented performing arts students.
High Maintenance!
It was lovely to see former Maintenance Manager Mr Andrew Humphrey at the recent blessing of our new Multi-Purpose Centre.
Mr Humphrey was delighted to chat to our new Property Manager, Mr Dave Peters.
Mosaic
Once again our Performing Arts students excelled in all their performances at our recent Mosaic celebration. It was to wonderful see a couple of “The School of Rock” songs resurrected and amazing also to see our students still have that contagious energy and exhuberance for which they are famous!
Club Italia - The Leopold Concert
On Tuesday November 26th, many of our talented performing arts students entertained the very appreciative senior audience at Club Italia. The College showcased our Senior Symphonic Winds, the Choir, Stage Band and some excellent soloists. This is one of our very favourite performances and it was a wonderful way to end our very busy year.
Many thanks to our hard working staff : Mrs Marina Brown, Ms Caitln Doble, Mr Angelo Scotto , Mr Attel Martschinke, Mr Paul James and to our maintenance staff - Mr Dave Peters, Mr Brendan Jones and Mr Neil Hodder for their assistance with our equipment.
Farewell
We are all very sad to say farewell to our talented Year 12 students who have given so much of their time and talents to our college over the years. Sean Neylan, Ben Robertson, Emily Gordon and Tilda Sturman will leave a large gap in our Senior Symphonic Winds. Our vocalists, Jack Woodfine, Callum Branch, Montana Hillman and Billy Souflas will also be very much missed.
I would especially like to thank Jack Woodfine for his hard work as Arts Captain and Billy Souflas for always being there to lend a hand. We shall also miss the percussion performances of the ever smiling Parker Janetski and for his assistance with our equipment.
Have a very happy and holy Christmas.
Music is food for the soul.
Mrs Linda Pape Performance & Instrumental Coordinator
A very big thank you for supporting the Christmas Hamper Appeal by encouraging your students to bring items in.
We were able to package up 24 hampers yesterday and deliver a trolley of long life milk, custard and cereal to the Meals Program!
Thank you to Jane Alexander, Sarah Somerset, Laura Taylor-Payne and Gemma Tolan for coming down to help pack up the hampers.
Thank you!
Alicia Deak Justice & Service Coordinator
Our College Captain Samuel Salisbury helping with the delivery to the Meals program.
For all year levels – please register your interest now
The DAV offers the opportunity to students in all year levels at schools in the Geelong Region to take part in Debating on the following evenings in 2020:
Thursday April 30th
Thursday May 14th
Thursday May 28th
Thursday June 11th
Thursday July 30th
What is required of student participants at SICG:
All participants are assisted and supported with the preparation of their arguments and the rehearsal of their speeches. This ensures that students are equipped with the necessary skills and able to debate with confidence.
Any student who is willing to take up the challenge of Debating in 2020 and who is prepared to make the commitment required is asked to have a parent or guardian express their interest by emailing Ms Andrea Dart: darta@ignatius.vic.edu.au or Mr Michael Tod: todm@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Expressions of interest close on Friday 7th February after which time the SICG Debating teams will be registered and organized. As the DAV organises both regional and metropolitan competitions which generally run from March through to August, it is necessary to register teams in February for the Geelong program to commence at the end of April.
We look forward to fielding junior and senior teams once again in 2020.
Mr Michael Tod Junior Debating Co-ordinator and Ms Andrea Dart Senior Debating Co-ordinator
To Students and Families from Barwon Coast
Summer is with us bringing holidays and warmer weather, Barwon Coast seeks your assistance in spreading an important safety message with regards to the dangerous practice of jumping or diving into the Barwon River at Barwon Heads from the Public Jetty and William Buckley Pedestrian Bridge.
We are concerned that this dangerous activity occurs as the warmer weather arrives. There is constantly changing sand level buildup of the river bed around the jetty and the bridge that can result in critically shallow water depths. It could be devastating to many if a youthful member of any family were injured through this action of theirs.
Signage is present on the jetty and bridge advising that jumping or diving is prohibited however your assistance in advising students and their families of the peril would be greatly appreciated.
Seasons greetings from all at Barwon Coast and we wish everyone a safe and happy summer season.
A PDF of our Canteen Price List can be downloaded here
Thank you to all canteen helpers for your support in 2019 and we wish them a Merry Christmas and hope to see them again next year!
Sandra Woodall Tel: 0417 050 258
Join Saver Plus and we'll match your savings, dollar for dollar, up to $500 for school costs.
To join Saver Plus, you must be at least 18 years or over, have a child at school or attend vocational education yourself, have regular income from paid employment (you or your partner), have a current Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card and be in receipt of an eligible Commonwealth social security benefit, allowance or payment.
Contact: Your local Saver Plus Coordinator
Phone: 03 5278 8122 Email: GeelongSP@bethany.org.au Web: www.saverplus.org.au
See PDF flyer for details:
Annual Parents and Friends' Association College Fee Raffle
1st Prize: Saint Ignatius College School Fees for 2020
2nd Prize: Campion Voucher $200
3rd and 4th Prize: Noone Uniform Supplier Voucher ($100 each)
Plus....
Large Oxford Dictionary (from Campion)
4 x $25 Secondhand Uniform Shop Vouchers
10 x $5.00 Canteen School Vouchers
Tickets are $25.00 each and can be purchased via trybooking using this link: https://www.trybooking.com/BGHUX
The Raffle is drawn on Year 7 Orientation Day Tuesday December 10th at 2.45pm
Ticket sales close Friday December 6, 2019
Parents and Friends' Association Next Meeting 2020
Please come and join us on Tuesday February 11th at 7.00pm in the Food Tech Rooms.
We look forward to seeing you there. New members very welcome. Email your details to us at: sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Even if you can’t make it regularly to the monthly meetings, but you might be able to be on call to help at the different things we are involved in throughout the year, please get in touch with us.
Become part of the Parents and Friends’ Association
We invite you to join the Saint Ignatius College Parents and Friends' Association - whether it be attending our monthly meetings, helping out at fundraising events , you can receive some up to date information on events coming up at and around the College by emailing your details to sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
The Uniform Shop
Extra! Extra! Special Uniform Shop Openings:
Tuesday December 10th 2019 – Year 7 Orientation Day from 2.00pm – 4.00pm
Thursday January 23rd 2020 – Book Pick-up Day from 9.00am – 2.00pm
Uniform Drop Off
If you have any second hand uniform items you wish to drop in to the Uniform Shop you can do it on the 2 days listed above. Please be sure to have the items cleaned and pressed, or dry-cleaned.
Please be aware that uniform items need to be current. For example, the old tracksuit styles & sport shirts will not be accepted for sale as they are not a part of the current school uniform.
Open Dates for Term 1, 2020 will be provided in the new year.
We are always seeking Volunteers to help in the uniform shop. If you are available and have time to help out Please email Samantha (Sam) Wells sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au Training is provided.
Yes! We are selling the Entertainment Book – (2019/2020)
You can still purchase your copy! Please help support Saint Ignatius College by purchasing an Entertainment.
Books are for sale at the College Office or you can email Sandi Clark sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Message from the President of the Parent and Friends' Association
Over the years we have been able to support the College through our fundraising and have purchased a variety of items to help in the development of different Departments.2019 was a very generous year of giving back to our College community. The P&F team have been brilliant in consolidating time and effort to allow this to happen.
Thank you to each and every member of the PFA, and to parents who have raised their hand to our cry for help. We appreciate any and all help you were able to offer, and hope to continue this great relationship.
Thank you to the College staff – especially our Principal Mr Michael Exton and Deputy’s Mrs Annette Chidzey, Mr Michael Timms and Mr Paul Lewis. We appreciate your input and presence at our meetings, and are always pleased to have your input, support and encouragement.
There will be a shuffling and change to roles and position within the Association for 2020. Cathy Dykes (Secretary), Sandi Clark (Treasurer) and Sam Wells (Uniform Shop co-ordinator) and I have had to step down from our roles due to work and family commitments. We will still be involved with the PFA, but not in the leadership roles.
We welcome Peter McInerney to the position of Treasurer. Peter is new to the College, and we thank him for putting forth his nomination, and accepting the position. We feel he will be a great addition to the team. Thank you to Bernard Lewis (long time member) for joining the College Board as our PFA representative. Already Bernard has proven to be right for the job. We are so pleased he could add this to his schedule, and we look forward to his informative reports at our meetings. Sandi Clark has generously offered to be Uniform Shop coordinator for 2020.
Sadly no one has come forth with nominations for the position of President and Secretary. Cathy and I have opted to remain in our roles until February 2020 so that the Association can function as per our PFA constitution. We would like to invite you to consider nominating for either of these roles.
Email: sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au if you require more information, would like to register your interest, or need a nomination form.
Being President has been a great experience for me. I joined the PFA after a couple of years doing Canteen duty. I wanted to be more involved, informed and aware of things happening in the College. I wanted to connect with a few more parents within the school. I was looking for a feeling of belonging. I accepted the position 2 years ago as a shy parent with what I felt was a little voice.
The friendships I have developed with fellow members and also the College staff have been wonderful. I feel I have grown in confidence and feelings of self worth.
My opinion and the opinion of all PFA is regarded highly, and we are treated with respect. I am a better person for giving it a go. I thank the PFA and the College for this opportunity.
On behalf of all my friends on the PFA we wish you a Merry Christmas. We hope you enjoy every second of your precious family time, and feel the joy and love this season brings. Stay safe in your travels and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
Thank you for all your support.
Cheers
Rebecca Hay (Current) PFA President
More than just a nice feeling, gratitude is integral to happiness. If we can inspire and cultivate gratitude in our children, we’re doing so much more than teaching them to be polite by saying ‘thank-you’. We’re helping them develop a strength that will positively affect their mental health and wellbeing over a lifetime. It’s that powerful.
Remember how many times you had to remind your kids to use their manners all those years ago? I know, probably too many! Still reminding? You’re not alone! In the same way good manners eventually become a part of daily life, sincere gratitude will too. It’s worth persevering.
Benefits of a grateful mindset
The science tells us that compared with those who don’t, people who practice gratitude are more enthusiastic, more determined, perform better at school, are more likely to avoid risky behaviours, experience less depression and envy, are more kind and helpful, sleep better and are 25 per cent happier.
Adolescents with a grateful mindset are more optimistic and experience greater social support, which is essential to their health and happiness. They experience more fulfilling friendships and family relationships, are more content in themselves and with their school, have higher grades and are less focused on material possessions.
There’s simply no down side!
Practicing gratitude is a sure-fire way to boost happiness, something we absolutely want for ourselves and for our children. In addition, teaching our children genuine appreciation helps them develop strong relationships over the course of their lives, and we know that strong relationships are critical to our overall happiness.
Gratitude isn’t just good for the giver either. It’s wonderful for the recipient too. Do you remember how you felt the last time sincere gratitude was expressed to you? It lifts our spirits, boosts our mood and inevitably strengthens our relationship with the person expressing their thanks.
Where do I start?
The best way to teach gratitude is for us as parents to role model it.
When you’re feeling grateful, tell your kids and explain why. If you do something kind for someone to thank them for helping you, share your story over the evening meal. Like all values we want for our kids to embrace, it’s ‘monkey see, monkey do’.
Different families teach gratitude in different ways. The trick is to introduce a gratitude practice that doesn’t feel like a chore. Even if there’s a little resistance at first, don’t give up. It feels good to be grateful, so it should eventually become something that doesn’t need too much of a nudge.
Supporting your child to become more grateful begins with teaching three fundamental ideas:
1. Awareness that someone has purposefully done something to benefit them.
2. Awareness that taking action to provide you a benefit cost that person in some way.
3. Understanding that the benefit of that person’s actions is valuable to them.
There are loads of fun ways to practice gratitude. Here are a few to get you started:
– Regularly express sincere gratitude to your partner and to your children, explaining why.
– Prompt your kids to note things they’re grateful for in colourful textas on poster paper on the fridge.
– Paint a wall in chalk paint for your family to artistically (or not!) express their gratitude using chalk.
– Ask each family member what they’re thankful for each evening at dinner.
– Stop to savour and appreciate the little things like a beautiful flower or a colourful sunset.
– Find the silver lining in difficult circumstances.
– Relive happy moments together.
– Hold hands at the dinner table and thank the person who prepared the food.
– Ask the kids to take photos of the things they’re grateful for.
– Keep thank-you notes at the ready and let the kids know when you write one and why. Encourage them to do the same.
– Encourage a contribution from your kids’ pocket money towards something they want.
– Start a gratitude journal and invite the kids to make contributions.
– Encourage your kids to help others.
– Help your kids reflect on what they’re grateful for, last thing at night.
– Start a gratitude jar and each weekend spend time reading over the notes within.
It’s really about finding the right fit for your family. You may need to try a few different ideas. You don’t even have to do it everyday, even just a few times a week works well, though it is good to get into a routine with it.
Lastly, Associate Professor Jeffrey Froh, a leading authority on gratitude in young people, tells us that “the deepest sense of gratitude in life comes from connecting to a bigger picture, to an issue that matters to others, and doing things that contribute to society down the road.”
Knowing this we can also be on the lookout for opportunities to fan the flames of our childrens’ passions and yearnings to make a difference in the lives of others. Step-by-step, day-by-day, we can raise grateful young people who are happier because of their perspective, and who lead rich and fulfilling lives because of what they do for others.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 10 books for parents including Thriving! and the bestselling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It, and his latest release Spoonfed Generation: How to raise independent children.
Local Community and Sporting groups you may be interested in.
How Deep Are Yor Pockets
Barwon Coast partnered with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Victoria Police, CFA, City of Greater Geelong and Ocean Grove Coastcare under the Share Our Shores campaign to advocate behavioural change amongst young people engaging in destructive and dangerous dune behaviour.
Project partners are seeking your schools support with this project by allowing provision for the attached flyer to be displayed around the school and be included into the school newsletter and website leading up to the upcoming summer school holidays.
Barwon Coast Committee of Management Inc. is appointed by state government to manage 15km of coastal Crown land from beach access ways 7W Collendina to 42W Connewarre on behalf of all Victorians.
Our main charter is for the protection and enhancement of the natural values within our estate, whilst providing a place for people to recreate. In addition to natural resource protection, a key responsibility for us is to manage risk to ensure the safety of all users of our reserves.
The PDF below provides information about the fines that apply based on inappropriate behaviour.
Group Parent Education Events: Barwon South Western Region Term 1 2020
To attaend a regional Parenting Service program please register your expression of interest online: www.geelongaustralia.com.au/parenting or contact Regional Parenting Service on 5272 4741.
The attached PDF details all upcoming programs and loactions.
What's On in January 2020 at the Potato Shed!
The Potato Shed have a variety of performances to suit people of all ages. Please find attached the What’s On poster for events coming up in January 2020. You are advised to book early as many events sell out.
Did your Year 7 students miss their vaccines at school?
See the list below of Immunisation Centres and Hours:
Belmont Community Health Centre
Barwon Health 1-17 Reynolds Road, Belmont, 3216.
(Please note that this is the Barwon Health building, not the Maternal Child Health building)
Wednesday morning (Appointment only) 9 am - 12.30pm
Open sessions (No appointment required) Wed and Friday afternoons 1.30pm - 4.45pm
Saturday morning (Appointment only) 08.30am – 12.15pm
Corio Community Health Centre
Barwon Health 2 Gellibrand St, Corio, 3214.
Every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.45am (No appointment required)
Newtown “Ariston”
245 Pakington St, Newtown, 3220.
1st Friday of each month 9.30am -11.45am (No appointment required)
Ocean Grove - Boorai Centre (behind Aquatic Centre)
4-50 Shell Rd, Ocean Grove, 3226.
2nd and 4th Friday of each month 9.30am -11.45am (No appointment required)
Newcomb Library meeting room (upstairs)
Corner Wilsons Rd & Bellarine Highway, Newcomb, 3219.
1st and 3rd Friday of each month 9.30 – 11.45am (No appointment required)
Bell Park Parish
Holy Family 147 Separation St, Bell Park, VIC 3215
Sunday: 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am Croatian, 12.15pm Slovenian 2nd Sunday Only
Ss Peter & Paul’s Cnr Mercer & Malone St, Geelong West, VIC 3218
Saturday: 5.00pm Vigil
Holy Spirit Cnr Bostock Ave & Nambool St, Manifold Heights, VIC 3218
Sunday: 11.00am
Belmont Parish
St Bernard’s 74 Fryers Rd, Belmont, VIC 3216
Sunday: 9.00am, 10.30am
Saturday: 6.30pm Vigil
Corio and Lara Parish
St Francis Xavier 143 Bacchus Marsh Rd, Corio, VIC 3214
Sunday: 10.30am
Saturday: 7.00pm Vigil
St Anthony’s Kees Road, Lara, VIC 3212
Sunday: 9.00am
Drysdale Parish
St Thomas Peninsula Drive, Drysdale, VIC 3222
Sunday: 9.00am
St Patrick’s 10 - 14 Harding St, Portarlington, VIC 3223
Sunday: 9.00am
St Phillip & St James 1345 Murraduc Rd, St Leonards, VIC 3223
Saturday: 6.00pm Vigil
Lumen Christi 66 Kensington Road, Leopold, VIC 3224
Sunday: 10.30am
Geelong Parish
St Mary of the Angels Basilica 150 Yarra St, Geelong, VIC 3220
Sunday: 7.30am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 12.15pm Polish, 5.30pm
Saturday: 6.00pm Vigil
Grovedale, Anglesea and Torquay Parish
Nazareth 10 Griffith St, Grovedale, VIC 3216
Sunday: 10.30am
St Therese’s 43a Surfcoast Highway, Torquay, VIC 3228
Sunday: 8.45am
St Christopher’s 72 Bingley Parade, Anglesea, VIC 3230
Saturday: 6.00pm Vigil
Meredith Parish
St Joseph’s 28 Lawler St, Meredith, VIC 3333
Sunday: 11.00am Alternate Sunday
Sacred Heart 70 Hamilton Highway, Inverleigh, VIC3321
Sunday: 9.00am except last Sunday of the month when it will be at Bannockburn gymnasium
St Brigid’s 2439 Ballan Road, Anakie, VIC 3221
Sunday: 11.00am Alternate Sunday
St John the Baptist 4 Harding St, Winchelsea, VIC 3230
Saturday: 6.00pm Vigil
St John the Evangelist 24 High Street, Bannockburn, VIC 3331
Sunday: 9.00am Mass in the Stadium last Sunday of the month
Queenscliff Parish
Holy Family 101 Hitchcock Avenue, Barwon Heads 3227
Saturday: 6.00 pm
Our Lady Star of the Sea 68 John Dory Drive, Ocean Grove 3226
Sunday: 9.00 am
Holy Trinity 34 Stevens Street, Queenscliff 3225
Sunday: 11:00 am