Dear Parents and Carers,

I am delighted to share that the start of the school year has been smooth, engaging, and lively overall. By far, most students have settled in well, and it’s been fantastic to witness their enthusiasm as they reconnect with friends and immerse themselves in their studies. The start of each school year brings excitement, and this year is no different. Our staff members have worked diligently to prepare our students for success. The past two weeks have been quite busy and full of variety.

As you may know, much of the local area experienced storm damage on Sunday, February 2. Consequently, two classrooms in the Xavier Centre sustained water damage. Four Year 7 classes from the two affected rooms and those in the two adjacent rooms had to be relocated to spare portable classrooms. The repairs are nearly complete, and we hope to resume using these rooms late next week. I commend the students and staff involved for their flexibility, adaptability, and cooperation. Parents of students from the affected classes will have received a letter with further information from Mrs Deb Hodge (Yr 7 Coordinator).

One of the first highlights of the year was our Connection Week Program. This program aimed to help students better prepare for their studies, build relationships, and foster a sense of community within the school. It enabled students to form friendships, better understand the College’s expectations, and create a positive and welcoming atmosphere for the year ahead.

We were fortunate to come together as a community for the College Beginning of the Year Mass. We sought God’s blessing for all of us for a successful year as companions on our faith and learning journey. The theme of the Mass was the 2025 Year of Jubilee theme - "Pilgrims of Hope." I am grateful to our celebrants, Fr Gerry Healy SJ (a member of the Jesuits and our School Advisory Council) and Queenscliff Parish Priest, Fr Linh Pham. It was a special time to pray together, celebrate our shared values, and set our intentions for the year ahead. The Mass reminded us of the importance of faith, hope, and love in our lives.

Additionally, we held our College Academic Assembly, marking an inspiring start to the academic year. The assembly featured motivational speeches from both staff and students, along with the recognition of academic achievements from the previous year. It was a fantastic way to kick off our commitment to academic excellence and inspire our students to make the most of their opportunities. As has been our tradition, the College Captains announced the chosen student leadership theme for the year – “Dream Discover Do.” Please refer to their newsletter article for an explanation of the theme.

At the assembly, I announced the name of our multi-purpose centre. We wanted a name that reflects its purpose and aligns with our Ignatian identity. We have chosen the name first proposed by Fr Gerry Healy SJ: “Companions Centre.” This is quite fitting, as it is a place where we come together as a school community, companions in our faith and learning journey. We are a Jesuit Companion School. And as our College song says, “We are Companions of Ignatius.”

Recently, I discovered an article by the Australian Jesuit Provincial, Fr Quyen Vu SJ, in which he reflected on what St Ignatius’ first companions can teach us about being companions to one another today.

“From the beginning, Ignatius did not want the Society of Jesus to be named “Ignatian” after himself but instead chose to call members “Companions of Jesus” – directing the First Companions toward Christ Jesus rather than himself.

Companions work together for a common goal. They do more than collaborate; they are friends inspired by the same spirit, principles and charism.

Ignatius and the First Companions understood the importance of coming together to share a common purpose; therefore we, too, are challenged to find new ways of being “Companions” to one another with united hearts and minds in our mission for the greater glory of God.”

You might have heard the saying, ‘better together.’ This phrase suggests that our interactions with one another can lead to something greater than ourselves. We hope to achieve something even more significant if we regard each other as companions. St Ignatius and his companions indeed created something greater than they could have achieved individually.

Another assembly feature was the announcement of this year’s school production. Every two years, the College produces a large musical show. You may recall the previous two productions, which received high praise, ‘Wicked’ and ‘Anastasia.’ This year, generating much excitement in our community, it was announced that the production will be ‘Les Miserables.’ It will be performed in our Companions Centre at school and held in early September. Students interested in being involved should keep an eye on their emails and Xuno messages. Auditions will commence very soon.

Today, Friday 14th February (10 am – 2 pm), we will hold our annual House Swimming Sports at the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (just across the road from the College). Our Sports Coordinator, Mr Andrew Philp, has emailed all students with information about getting involved. Students must register to participate in the sports. Mr Philp will use the student race timings to select the GISSA squad to compete in the Inter-school competition. Students who do not compete or help out as officials on the day will remain at school for their usual classes. Parents are welcome to attend.

Looking forward, we are eager to continue building on this positive momentum. The year is off to a great start, and we remain focused on providing our students with the tools and environment they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. We look forward to all the fantastic opportunities this year will bring and are grateful for the support of our school community as we embark on this exciting journey together.

Thank you & best wishes for the next two weeks,

Michael Exton

Principal

As we settle into the new year, our new students, staff and families discover all that a new school environment brings. Those who return, re-adjust from holiday mode back into the usual routines of school life. Familiar routines bring a sense of order to our lives and there is some comfort to be found in knowing how things work and what comes next.

Unique to us at Saint Ignatius College is our Friday morning ritual of stepping away from our busy lives, for five minutes, to pray the Examen. This framework for prayer is a significant part of Ignatian Spirituality. The Examen creates time, space and opportunity where the individual can find the presence of God in everyday interactions and places. In this time we rest, reflect, show gratitude and think forward into the future. If you are ever in the College on a Friday morning at 8.55am, you are most welcome to join our community by listening to the Examen that is broadcast to offices and learning spaces. You might like to sit comfortably at Reception or you may even hear it from your car window. The practice of the Examen is a powerful moment where our College community connects with God and each other.

As a newcomer to the College, there is a lot to learn about being Ignatian. During the week, my curiosity led me into a conversation with one of our student leaders where my underlying intention was to hear an unscripted student perspective on how St Ignatius is relevant to a young person. The young leader explained that St Ignatius went through a conversion where he moved from being a knight with fame and fortune, to being someone who found deeper meaning in life through his discovery of faith. He shared that knowing about St Ignatius has shown him that power is found in reflection, especially when life takes an unexpected turn, and that fulfilment can be found by working out what you truly value. It is encouraging to know that when this young person graduates from the College this year, he will depart with confidence to share stories of St Ignatius and pride in being educated in the Ignatian tradition.

Carmen Ahearn | Deputy Principal – Faith & Mission

Academic Assembly Address to College. - Introduction to 2025 College Theme ‘Dream, Discover, Do.’ 5th of February, 2025.

Introduction

Good Morning everyone,

This year we wanted to place a big emphasis on the College’s mission statement. That is, to nurture individuals of conscience, competence and compassion. We are eager to announce the new theme for 2025 is Dream, Discover, Do. That is to dream of what it is that you want to be this year, discover how you can achieve it, and take action to do what you desire. This theme calls for all of you to place belief in yourself and create a positive outcome for you inside and outside of the College.

Dreaming is the first step to achieving greatness. St. Ignatius once dreamed of becoming a noble knight, seeking honor and glory. However, after being injured in battle, his path changed, and he discovered a deeper calling—to serve others and dedicate his life to God. His dream transformed, leading him to establish the Jesuits, an order that continues to inspire education and reaches every corner of the globe.

Like St. Ignatius, we are called to dream big. Whether it’s excelling in academics, pursuing a passion, or making a difference in our community, our dreams shape our future. Dreaming is about believing in what’s possible, setting goals, and having the courage to take that first step.

So, what are your dreams? What goals inspire you? St. Ignatius' journey shows us that dreams can evolve into something greater than we ever imagined. How can your talents, combined with faith and imagination, help build a better future? Dream big, believe in yourself, and embrace the possibilities ahead—because your dreams have the power to shape the world. Take that first step, even if it feels scary.

Discover calls us to explore and immerse ourselves in the opportunities that present themselves to us, in order to understand who we are as individuals and thus unlock our potential.

We see this step demonstrated through the life of St Ignatius, particularly during his lengthy period of evangelisation and prayer in his cave at Manresa. In his time there, Ignatius developed the Spiritual exercises, now a key Jesuit practice to guide self reflection, evaluation and wellbeing. What happened at Manresa was extremely formative in the rest of Ignatius’s life, by discovering his strengths and outlining his goals, it gave him passion and purpose for his future actions.

Reflection is vital for personal growth and development, to help see our strengths and successes as well as our areas that need improvement. When was the last time you took a moment to stop and re-evaluate where you’re at?

By reflecting, we are able to make more guided decisions which help us to get involved in things that we are passionate about and thus, excel in.

We are so fortunate to have endless opportunities here at the College which allow for us to thrive, whether it’s performing in this year’s musical or trying out for the footy team or putting a bit of extra effort into your studies. We urge you to seize these chances so you can reap the rewards!

The doing or the action phase is the third step, and vital to bringing everything together. As the old saying goes “actions speak louder than words” and it’s all good and well to talk about doing something, but if this talk isn’t backed up with purposeful action then it is meaningless.

In Saint ignatius’ life he spent ample time in deep contemplation after his injury at war, he weighed the advantages and challenges of embracing a life of faith, considered the controversy and how he might be viewed by his peers. However the key to Ignatius’ story is that he followed up on his contemplations, and used his values to guide him. He went and took the contentious path and did what he thought was right in founding the Jesuits, and leaving a life of knighthood, honor and glory behind.

This year what actions are you going to take to better yourself? Are you going to step away from the societal norms and expectations of your peers, and be yourself?; are you going to challenge your mate after they make an offensive comment?; are you going to dedicate more time to working on yourself?; are you gonna tell your mates that you love them and you appreciate them? Whatever it may be, remember that “actions speak louder than words”.

Be brave. Be smart. Don’t hesitate. Just do..

We hope “Dream, Discover, Do” becomes a mindset that guides you through this year and beyond, encouraging you to approach life with curiosity, confidence and purpose. You are on your own journey. Dream big, discover new opportunities and do so by taking action. As St. Ignatius once said, “Go forth and set the world on fire”.

Thank you.

Welcome to the 2025 school year! We are so excited to be your 2025 College Vice Captains.

This year, we, along with Bel and Tucker, really hope to see students getting involved and putting themselves out there so we can cultivate a strong sense of spirit, as well as help students discover their passions and grow!

To introduce ourselves a bit more:
My name is Steph. I have a keen interest in swimming, performing as well as social justice. Last year I was very fortunate to be the College Justice Captain, and I hope to keep raising awareness about different issues in our local and wider community. I applied for this role because I want to continue to build a strong school culture, as well as give back to the College community, which has helped me get where I am today. I can’t wait to see what this year will bring for all of us!

My name is Riley. I love playing sport, getting outdoors and spending quality time with my mates. In fact, one of the greatest and most fulfilling things I’ve done was completing the Overland track in Tasmania. Last year I was lucky enough to take on the role of House Vice Captain for Glowery (Blue) House. Through this I became heavily invested in generating school spirit and pride, something we want to grow exponentially this year. But we must work together to make this happen, and I am willing to put my foot forward, just as I hope you are. I have high hopes for this year and look forward to what’s ahead.

We want to be your voice and continue to make school a place where everyone feels they belong and looks forward to each day. We’re always open for a chat, so please don’t hesitate to stop us in the yard or even send us an email. If you have a question, concern, an idea you want to put forward, we want to hear from you! We are striving to work hard to achieve this goal and we are more than willing to work together with the school community to bring this dream to life.

The school year is going to be packed with so many different opportunities for everyone to get involved in, so be sure to keep an eye out on Xuno for what’s happening, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there to ‘Dream, Do and Discover’. Have a great year.

Your 2025 College Vice-Captains

Riley Molloy and Steph Reynolds

All drivers travelling to and from our College are reminded to always adhere to traffic sign requirements.

Please keep in mind that the speed limit on Peninsula Drive is always 40 km/h.

When attending after-hours events at the College, please do not park in the St Thomas Primary School carpark.

Most of the stretch of Gillies Road adjacent to the College has no stopping signs on the eastern side. Parking inspectors may patrol this area occasionally. Please avoid parking in our neighbours' driveways (on the east side of Gillies Road) when dropping off or picking up your child.

Another location to drop off or pick up your child is on the old Andersons Road on the north side of the bypass. For students, it’s a short walk to and from school through the new underpass, which helps to avoid the heavy traffic on Peninsula Drive.

Thank you for prioritising everyone's road safety in and around the College.

As part of Connection Week, all Year 8 Mentor Groups participated in the Year 8 Mentor Challenge. This involved activities including Guess the Song, Shape Rope Challenge, Minute mysteries and Silent Line-Up. All of which were designed to involve greater connection with the newly created mentor classes. Congratulations to 8 Doble on winning the Connection Week Mentor Challenge. As a result of their win students enjoyed a Hot Chip Lunch on Tuesday during the Period 4 Mentor Class

Ms Doble - Year 8 Assistant Coordinator

Recently, I was fortunate enough to be selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum held in Brisbane in January. This incredible program allows for students going into Year 12, from all around Australia, who have an interest in STEM, to meet together and gain some insight into what their future in STEM could look like.

I really loved being able to make some strong connections with others my age who have similar interests to me as well as have discerning conversations with professionals in their respective STEM industries. I found that being able to talk one on one with them really broadened my horizons as to all the possibilities that my future can hold as well as gave me advice as to what I need to do to get there.

My definite highlight was the STEM visits that we had to different workplaces around Brisbane. My favourite was the Integrated Pathology centre, where I got to see firsthand the effect of different diseases on humans, or the Griffith University chemistry lab, where I had a lot of fun running some forensics tests.

I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to pursue a career in STEM or is interested in anything science!

- Steph Reynolds

Welcoming, informative, and fun - are the first things that spring to mind when I recall my time at the National Youth Science Forum in Brisbane. Welcoming -Everyone - from the other students, the awesome staff, lecturers and researchers were so kind, warm and approachable. And I know that I have made many life-long friends and connections. Informative - We looked at Bovine parasites at CSL, MRIs at the University of Queensland and learnt more about the versatility of proteins at Griffith University. We got to engage with experts in Engineering, Chemistry and Biology amongst others. My favourite aspect of the conference was talking to maintenance engineers and physicists that worked on a particle accelerator located in Switzerland. Fun - There was lots of fun during the many extracurricular activities from cultural visits to the Museum of Queensland to the final night talent show and disco. The National Science Forum was truly an unforgettable experience and I encourage all science fans to consider applying to attend future forums.

- Maddy Kirk (Year 12).

Thursday 13th February

On the 13th February 2008, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologised on behalf of the nation for past laws, policies and practices that have impacted upon Australia’s First Nations Peoples, particularly members of the Stolen Generations.

Each year the 13th February marks the anniversary of the National Apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and is a significant day in Australia’s history.

It is an important time to reflect on how generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have been affected, and will continue to be affected, by the past policies of the Australian Government and the ongoing impacts of this on the mental health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians.

Saint Ignatius College is committed to authentic and genuine reconciliation with Australian First Nations People and today we reflect on the significance of this event and its importance.

More information on the National Apology Day can be found with this link

https://youtu.be/QKU9rVKMxuY?si=Ac3i6hUItYCXVgXj

Thank you

SICG FIRE Carriers

Fire Igniting Reconciliation through Education

The Saint Ignatius College Parents and Friends Association is excited to present the '2025 Car Raffle!' With all proceeds going towards student resources, this is the raffle that you want to win! 

Tickets are only $20 and can be purchased here -->https://rafflelink.com.au/2025-sicg-car-raffle

Raffle will be drawn on Sunday the 30th of March at 11am, 2025, winner will be notified via phone/email. 

Thanks for your support of the College PFA, and best of luck with your tickets.Imagine yourself in the front seat of a red 2024 MG ZST VIBE.

We would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the inaugural 2025 PFA Car Raffle:

Saint Ignatius College is delighted to announce that the 2025 keynote speaker for our International Women's Day Community Evening is author of the best-selling memoir 'The Uncaged Sky' which details the 804 days she spent as a political prisoner in Iran, and Middle Eastern politics and history expert, Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert.

This evening is always a highlight on our College Calendar, and attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets early via this link --> https://www.trybooking.com/CXYFI

Enjoy canapes and refreshments from 5.30pm, with the main address commencing at 6.30pm.