Newsletter Edition 8 / 2025 June 11th

Principal's Message

Dear Emmanuel College Families,

Last Friday, I had the absolute delight of attending my first Emmanuel College production—an entertaining and joy-filled performance of Cinderella. I was truly impressed by the energy, humour, and heart brought to the stage by our young performers, backstage crew, and production team. It was a joy to witness students fully immersed in the moment—supporting one another, expressing themselves, and delighting the audiences across each performance. I also appreciated the opportunity to meet families who came along to share in the occasion. Events like these highlight the importance of the arts and performing arts in school life, offering rich opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and joy. My warmest congratulations to all involved on such a memorable and uplifting achievement.

Our Catholic community also celebrated Pentecost this weekend, the feast that marks the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Pentecost calls us to open our hearts to the Spirit’s gifts—courage, wisdom, and unity—and to live these out in our daily lives. For our regional communities, it is a meaningful reminder of the power of connection and community, of walking with one another in faith, especially during challenging times.

It was fitting, then, that much-needed rainfall blessed our region over the weekend, bringing renewed hope after a long and difficult period of drought. The sense of relief and gratitude among our farming and business families was tangible. As a College grounded in this place and its people, we give thanks for the land, for those who work it, and for the gift of rain as a sign of God’s ongoing care and provision.

While our students enjoyed the rain over an extra-long weekend, our staff gathered and paused on Tuesday for a day of wellbeing reflection, led by teacher & wellbeing specialist Meg Durham. With honesty, warmth and wisdom, Meg reminded us of the importance of caring for ourselves so that we can continue to bring our best to those in our care—our students, families and wider community. In the midst of this long and busy term, and the quieter, darker days of winter, it was a timely invitation to reflect, reset, and recharge. The day was enjoyed by all and served as a valuable reminder of the strength we find in stillness and self-awareness. We also extend this message to our students and families—encouraging each of you to tend to your own wellbeing and to support one another gently through the weeks ahead.

As Catherine McAuley reminds us,
“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”
May we continue to bring light, encouragement and support to one another in all seasons.

A Prayer for Self-Care and Community Togetherness
Loving God,
In the busyness of our lives, grant us the grace to pause.
Help us to care gently for our minds, bodies, and spirits,
So that we may bring our best selves to those we serve and love.
May your Spirit unite us as a community of hope and kindness,
Giving strength to the weary, peace to the anxious,
And joy to those who lift up others.
May we walk together, sharing your light with a world in need.
Amen.

St. Joseph: Pray for us.  May the spirit of Catherine McAuley and Edmund Rice guide us in all that we do.  Amen.

Warm regards,
Ms Rachel McGennisken
Principal

A Message from Mrs Claire Wrigley

Diversity Month of May where we celebrated Cultural, Gender & Neurodiversity

A Snapshot on Cultural Diversity
Cultural diversity encompasses the variety of cultures, beliefs, and traditions present globally, contributing to a rich tapestry of human experiences and perspectives. By valuing every child's cultural background, we enable them to excel in all facets of life. Nurturing an environment of curiosity, open-mindedness, and respect for all cultures, will not only promote unity but a deeper appreciation of the nuances that distinguish us.

Inclusion is about more than just words; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance for every child, regardless of their cultural background. When children and adolescents feel seen and valued for who they are, they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Valuing and understanding cultural diversity, helps our communities benefit from a wealth of perspectives and experiences, enhancing our collective capacity for empathy and innovation.

As parents and adult carers, instilling an appreciation for cultural diversity is vital to equip young people with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Through leading by example and showing that kindness and understanding knows no boundaries, we can encourage them to embrace multiculturalism. This will not only prepare young people for personal success, but also for contributing to a world that views diversity as a strength. Through collective efforts, we can help pave the way for a more accepting and vibrant future.

SchoolTV - Special Report: Cultural Diversity
In this edition of SchoolTV, learn how best to embrace and celebrate cultural diversity with your children.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Cultural Diversity edition of SchoolTV
https://emmanuel.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/cultural-diversity-au

Digital Media Literacy & Safety Webinar for parents
This exclusive, one-off event is fast approaching and we’d love to see your families benefit from the insights of two of Australia’s leading experts, Susan McLean and Dr Michael Carr-Gregg.

They will share invaluable insights on how to empower young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

WEBINAR: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part II)
DATE: Wednesday, 18 June 2025
TIME: 7:30 pm

Topics in this webinar include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Misinformation & Algorithms
• Sexting and Sextortion
• Online Grooming

**** IMPORTANT ****

This webinar will not be available to replay later, so we encourage you to use the flyer and poster provided to help you promote this FREE event.

Please note: Participants MUST REGISTER PRIOR to the commencement of the webinar to gain access.

Registration link below - 

emmanuel.vic.schooltv.me/webinar/east-coast-digital-media-literacy-safety-part-2

RYDA - Drive Coach - FREE Workshop for Parents
RYDA All year 11 students participated in RYDA Australia's largest, longest running, and only national best practice road safety education program.  This is open to all senior school parents of children about to get their Learner’s permit or those currently on their learner’s permit.

Road Safety Education Limited (RSE), providers of the Ryda program, will also be running a FREE workshop aimed at helping parents and carers as they teach their teens to drive -  on Monday 30 June 2025 at Deakin University Warrnambool from 7:00pm to 8:00pm. 

Topics covered:

• Unlock the Mysteries of the Teenage Brain: What Makes Driving a Challenge?
• Decode Risk Factors for Young Drivers
• Learn the art of Coaching a Learner Driver
• Help you support the transition to solo driving
• Set a plan for collaborating with Driving Instructors
• And much more..

This workshop is supported by Warrnambool City Council, Victoria Police and Rotary. 

This practical workshop updates parents on the latest research and road safety approaches. It outlines some of the conversations and strategies our facilitators share with teens attending Ryda and gives them an opportunity to ask questions and get advice from the experts.

Drive Coach Workshop Details

Date: Monday 30 June 2025
Time: 7.00pm to 8.00pm
Venue: Percy Baxter Theatre, Deakin University Warrnambool Campus
Princes Hwy, Warrnambool VIC 3280
Cost: This is a free event

Register below.

Mrs Claire Wrigley
Assistant Principal - Students

Faith & Mission

Spirit of Catholic Education Award
Congratulations to staff members Jacinta Skilbeck, Natalie Elliott-Jackson and Natasha Cummings who were recipients of the DOBCEL Spirit of Catholic Education Award in the category of ‘School as Community’, accepted on behalf of all staff and student volunteers for our Community Meals project. 

The award was presented by the Executive Director of Catholic Education Tom Sexton and Prof. Elizabeth Labone, CEO of the Victorian Catholic Education Authority.

Andrew McMahon, although not directly employed by Emmanuel, was also recognised for his exceptional contribution, without whom the community meal would not be possible. 

Every Tuesday evening from 5.30-6.30pm, our school canteen is transformed into a welcoming space for anyone in need of a free meal, or just in need of a cup of tea or coffee and some company and acceptance. 

What began in 2021 as a conversation between Peter Morgan and Jacinta Skilbeck about a need in our community, under Jacinta’s guidance the Community Meals quickly developed into a large project that now serves over 1,000 meals per year, with the support of a large number of staff and student volunteers, generously supported by Sue Missen and Andrew McMahon and his family from McMahons Family Catering.

In the first six months, after receiving an overwhelming response from staff, Jacinta established a working party to support her in creating guidelines, risk assessments, induction processes, rosters and grant applications, and advice was also sought from external organisations involved in the local emergency relief network, in particular, the Soup Kitchen at St Joseph’s.

In 2022 the Community Meals project was established amidst covid protocols such as QR check-ins, masks and social distancing, with only one person attending our first meal, to quickly becoming a well known part of the wider community meals program around Warrnambool. That year also saw the inclusion of senior student volunteers. 

2023 saw further improvements and an opportunity to move beyond an establishment phase into a time when we really got to know our regulars and they in turn created their own friendships and a sense of community with other diners. 

Natasha Cummings took over the Social Justice role in 2024, and continued to guide the project, with initiatives such as food hampers, generously provided in partnership with Foodshare. Natalie Elliott-Jackson has been a constant source of advice and enthusiastic support since the beginning, offering tea or coffee and a calming, positive presence.

Inspired by our gospel values and Jesus’ call for justice, the following passage highlights what is at the heart of our community meals and how we can enact our motto of  ‘Sharing Faith, Hope and Love’:

Matthew 25:35 “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me…”

Thank you to everyone for their generous commitment and ongoing support.

Mrs Jacinta Skilbeck
Director of Faith & Mission

Faith & Mission - Religious Education

Catholic Education Week 2025
The 2025 Catholic Education Week theme this year is  - 'May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace' (Romans 15:13) The theme will also underpin Catholic Education Week which was held from May 26th - 30th.

During Catholic Education Week, Year 7C explored the concept of 'Hope'.
Students were invited to reflect on what hope means to them and to consider: How can we be people of hope?

Here are some of their reflections:

To me, having a sense of hope means....

To me having a sense of hope means that despite everything that happens, you are always looking into the future with an optimistic feeling that something good will happen. - Ruby Condon

To me, having a sense of hope means to have a belief that the future will be better. Also, never giving up and always trying your hardest even if you get pushed down, you have to get back up. - Lola Myers

Personally, having a sense of hope means wanting a better future and caring about what happens next. it means not giving up and believing that there is alight at the end of the tunnel, even if it seems unlikely. - Lilibet Bellamy Johansson

Our world definitely needs to focus more on hope rather than all the gloom and doom. Young people need to have a sense of hope to cope with the modern world. - Matthew Harrison

I think that with hope there is that new window of opportunity to new light. a sense of hope is believing that the possibilities are endless, even if current times are bad. - William Carey

To me having a sense of hope means that you would look towards things that may not even happen, but you really believe it will do so. An example of this is hoping you make the footy team at the start of the season, which is not guaranteed but you believe it will happen. Jonah Sabo

2025 Mercy Youth Awards
7C also want to tell you about the Mercy Youth Awards. This competition is open to high school students across Australia. The compeition encourages students to learn more about social justice issues in Australia, and how they can help bring about change. This year's competition is about Peace. Students are invited to creatively express their vision of peace. Allowing young artists to explore what peace means to them - whether it's harmony within their communities, global unity, or inner tranquility. Through their artistic talents, students can convey message of understanding, compassion, and hope for a more peaceful world.
Enter for the Youth Awards here: 

https://www.mercyfoundation.com.au/youth-awards/mercy-youth-awards-2025-2/

Ms Brigid Foard
Religious Education and Public Speaking Coordinator

Faith & Mission - Social Justice

Casual Clothes Day/Free Dress Friday 13^th June

Bring your Gold Coin and Wear a touch of Yellow or a full Yellow Outfit Friday  to show our support of Children’s Ground.

https://childrensground.org.au/

Emmanuel College supports the work of Children’s Ground whose purpose is to achieve systemic reform through the Children’s Ground Approach led by First Nations people. Evidencing this approach for national reform and through this approach, celebrate and uplift First Nations knowledge, creating equity and access to high quality education, health and economy in community for the next generation of children.  

 Children’s Ground achieves this by recognising children, families, Elders, and culture through listening to the way First Nations people want to lead and then following that path.  To uphold First Nations law and culture and the central place of land, kinship, responsibilities and knowledge from Apmerengetyele (from the land). 

 Children’s Ground’s Values are akin to Emmanuel’s

• Respect: for ourselves, for others, for all cultures and peoples.
• Inclusive and collective leadership: fairness, equity through shared power, knowledge and opportunity.  
• Self-determination and agency: we honour people’s power over themselves and their lives.
• Honesty: we value truth, both in our history as a country and in our present as an organisation –  in how we work with each other, and through transparency and accountability in our work.   
• Family: we value family and kinship and consider those who are part of our journey to be a part of our Children’s Ground family.  
• Bravery and disruption: we will disrupt the status quo to achieve justice and radical enduring change. We will be brave. 
• Love: we have love for our children and each other, laughter and compassion. 
• Creativity: we celebrate and harness the spark of imagination to create change, drawing on the knowledge of the oldest culture in the world and the newest.

GAT - General Achievement Test

General Achievement Test (GAT) – Tuesday 17 June 2025
All students enrolled in a Unit 3/4 VCE subject, VCE VM Unit 3/4 sequence, or a scored VCE VET subject are required to sit the GAT. The GAT plays a vital role in confirming the fairness and accuracy of both school-based and external assessments. It may also be used to calculate a Derived Examination Score if needed. Additionally, it assesses whether students meet Victorian literacy and numeracy standards.

Structure:
Section A (9:00–11:15am): Literacy (reading and writing) and numeracy
Section B (1:15–3:00pm): General knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, technology, the arts, and humanities

Students are required to arrive at the Emmanuel Centre by 8:30am to ensure the test starts promptly at 9:00am.

Key Information:

• No specific study is required – questions assess general skills and knowledge developed through schooling.
• Students must be familiar with the GAT format and question styles. An information session has been held, and students have received resources to support their preparation.
  
• Students must bring pens, pencils, an eraser, a scientific calculator, and a dictionary.
  
• Students may bring a clear plastic drink bottle (label removed) into the exam room.
  
• Students will have a lunch break between the two sessions and the canteen will be available.
  
• Year 11s not completing a Unit 3/4 sequence have an Independent Learning Day.

For More Information:
Visit vcaa.info/gat or email dmacpherson@emmanuel.vic.edu.au 

Ms Donna Macpherson
VCE Coordinator

Maths at a Glance

100% Club – 20% Question

Answer in the next Newsletter

Last Newsletter's Solution:  6 (This would be numbers 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 43.)

Freya goes for a walk. If she starts at her house, number 27, and ends at house number 49, how many houses will she count with 3 in the number on her side of the street?

 Maths Help
When: Wednesday Afternoon (3.45pm – 4.30pm)
Where: McAuley Library
Students have the opportunity to get assistance with their Mathematics on Wednesday afternoon’s in the McAuley library.  Look out for the Math’s teachers, bring your questions and get some help. It’s a great opportunity to work on those areas that you may not fully understand or consolidate the work that has been covered in your class.

AMT Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Competition
On Wednesday, May 21s, we had 29 students take part in the ‘The Computational and Algorithmic Thinking (CAT)’ competition. Completed online, the test comprised of a mixture of multiple-choice and integer solutions and encouraged students to develop informal algorithms and apply them to test data of increasing size or complexity.

For example, question 3 in the ‘Junior Division’ focused on pathways and shortest distances:

Year 8 student Jack Kitto produced the outstanding result of receiving a Certificate of High Distinction in the Junior Division and best result in the school, while other notable performances included:

Distinction - Junior Division
Rohan Elliott
Brody Dubyna
Ollie Marris

Credit - Junior Division
Seth Berugodaarachchi
Geordie Donahoo
Lauchie Griffiths
Dan Kelly
Thisara Kumarapperuma
Darcy Wicking

Intermediate Division
Samantha Coghlan
Lena Watty

Senior Division
Krish Bansal

If you have any questions regarding the information above feel free to
contact: Mr Hodson E: rhodson@emmanuel.vic.edu.au

Mr Richard Hodson
Mathematics Coordinator

Performing Arts News

Cinderella - that's a wrap!
And that's a wrap! Our 2025 school production of Cinderella has come to an end —and what a show it was! With sold-out performances and thunderous applause from every audience, the cast and crew have truly outdone themselves. The magic on stage will be unforgettable, a special highlight - The audible “ooohs” and “ahhhs” from visiting primary school audiences as Cinderella graced the stage in her dazzling ballgown—pure theatre magic! We'd like to take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible dedication and energy of our performers, backstage crew, costume makers, and staff. You’re all stars!

Thanks to Glen Watson families are welcome to download photos using this link! 

Meanwhile the Music Department is buzzing with excitement as your Year 7 students gear up for their upcoming '5 Note Concert'. They've been hard at work practising performance pieces and completing their skill assessments - there's a real sense of pride and teamwork in the air!

In Drama, our VCE Students are off to Melbourne to see Beetlejuice the Musical - a highlight on the VCAA Playlist. This experience will for the basis of an upcoming SAC and will also feature in their final written exam. What a fantastic opportunity to see high-quality, professional theatre in action!

Over in Year 7 Drama, students are deep into rehearsals for their Fractured Fairytale Performance assessments. our stage is alive with wolves, pigs, princesses, princes, grannies, hunters, fairy godmothers, and even a few mischievous wizards! Students have been enthusiastically designing sets, creating audio-visual elements, and bringing their own twists to classic tales - it's going to be wonderfully weird and wildly entertaining!

Lastly, a huge shoutout to our VET Music students, who have been showcasing their impressive talents during Thursday afternoon performance assessments. These dedicated young musicians are already preparing for their final exams later this year and continue to impress with their passion and skill.

The Performing Arts department is thriving, and we couldn’t be prouder of the creativity, courage, and commitment shown by our students every single day. Bravo to all!

Stay tuned for more updates in the next newsletter edition—until then, break a leg!

Mrs Megan Davies
Head of Performing Arts & Instrumental Music Coordinator

Library News

National Sorry Day

During May, students made and decorated purple native hibiscus flowers out of cover paper to make a mural of flowers that are on display in the Library.  Students from across the school participated in the activity, learning a little more about the significance of the day.

New Books In The Library
We have three new books in the Library available for borrowing.

Epically Good Greek Myths by R A Spratt.  This book has many myths to read including Medusa, Orpheus and Eurydice and the Golden Fleece.

Starlight by Solli Raphael.  Solli, an award-winning young poet ignites a conversation around identity and belonging and growing up.  It includes ideas, tips and activities.

Wonderfully Wired Brains: an introduction to the world of neurodiversity by Louise Gooding.  This book encourages everyone to embrace their differences.

Students are encouraged to visit the Library to borrow these books and other new books we have in our collection.  Library Staff can help with choosing a good book to read.

UNO Competition Winners

22 students participated in the Term 2 UNO Competition in the Reading Room on May 29.

Winner:              Mason Marshall

2^nd:                        Brodie Manson

Thank you to everyone who participated.

Year 12s Studying
Year 12 students are busy studying for their subjects in the upper part of the Library.  Many of the students use the whiteboards or flip cards to help with their learning.  They are making great use of the spaces and the meeting rooms.

CBCA Shadow Judging Program Begins
Last week students in the Student Book Club began their CBCA Shadow Judging Program participation.  Each student has a Shadow Judging Journal to record their thoughts on the books.  This year we are reading as a group the six books that are in the Picture Book Category.  Books in this category may be suitable for younger readers but may also be suited for older readers.  The first book read was A Leaf Called Greaf by Kelly Canby.  It tells the story of a bear who is all alone.  Two students are preparing a creative response to the picture book which will be submitted as part of the program.  We thank Darcy and Isaac for choosing A Leaf Called Greaf for their creative response and we look forward to seeing what they come up with.

Parent Book Club
Emmanuel College has a Parent/Guardians Book Club.  The group meets a couple of times a Term in the evening.  If any parents/guardians would like more information about the Book Club, or anything mentioned above, please contact Margaret Sinnott, Library Coordinator  msinnott@emmanuel.vic.edu.au or ring the College for more information.

Mrs Margaret Sinnott
Library Coordinator

Words for Wellbeing

Young people and gambling 

Although the  legal age for public gambling is 18 years in Australia, research shows that most Australian teenagers have gambled in some way.  Teenagers are increasingly taking part in types of online gambling.  Unlike public gambling, informal online gambling has less regulation in Australia.  All forms of gambling can be addictive and hard to stop.
Types of gambling and gambling-like activities for young people include: 

• Smartphone games with in-app purchases (microtransactions)
• Loot boxes in video games
• Horse and dog races
• Raffle tickets
• Sports betting
• Card games
• Lottery tickets and scratch cards
• Arcade games and claw machine

Some of these examples are not traditional types of gambling. However, they involve risking something on an unknown result and therefore they encourage gambling-like behaviour. The decision-making parts of the brain are not fully formed until around age 25. This means that teens may find it hard to understand the dangers of gambling, making them more impulsive. They can lose control of their actions and struggle to stop gambling.
Gambling in childhood increases the chances of gambling problems in adulthood.
Aside from losing money, teens who gamble may also:

• feel shame and guilt
• develop mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety
  
• have problems with alcohol and other drugs
  
• perform poorly at school
  
• skip school
  
• have relationship problems with family and friends

Teens and young people may not admit to gambling. In some cases, they may not even know their actions count as gambling. It is important to note that not every young person who gambles will develop gambling problems.

Warning signs of problem gambling could include:

• changes in spending habits, such as asking for money more often
  
• a drop in school marks and taking multiple days off school
  
• less interest in usual activities, such as after-school sports
  
• acting sad, distracted or withdrawn
  
• low energy levels and poor sleep patterns
  
• sudden interest in professional sports and sporting results, including checking scores for multiple sports at once
  
• use of gambling terms in conversation, such as ‘line’ and ‘spread’.

Support is available for young people with a gambling problem. If your child is showing multiple warning signs, you may want to speak to a doctor or gambling helpline for advice.
Gambling help youth free number 1800 262 376

For even more information on teenage gambling :

https://emmanuel.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-gambling-young-people-au

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/Gambling_-_teens_and_young_people/

https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/port-macquarie/gamble-aware-education/

https://raisingchildren.net.au/pre-teens/behaviour/behaviour-questions-issues/gambling

Celebrating IDAHOBIT Day with Headspace and Fit4Life
To mark IDAHOBIT Day, Headspace and Fit4Life partnered to deliver an engaging activity focused on how to be a good ally. Held in the Year 7/8 area, the event was open to all students and promoted inclusivity, kindness, and respect.

Students contributing positive messages such as:

• “You’re cool no matter what”
• “Be respectful and kind”
• “Be responsible for what you do and say”
• “Treat everyone equally and the way you want to be treated”
• “Have fun, be yourself – no one else”
• “Be kind and listen”
• “Include each other”
• “Be caring and encouraging”
• “Use the correct pronouns”

It was a fantastic opportunity for students to express their support for the LGBTQIA+ community and reflect on the values of diversity, empathy and allyship.

Standing Tall Event Inspires with Music & Mentorship
Last Friday, Emmanuel College proudly hosted a Standing Tall event, welcoming students and mentors from Warrnambool College, Merri River School, and our own Standing Tall Program. The highlight of the day was the Chaotic Choir experience, led by the incredibly talented Tom Richardson and Emmanuel College alum Grace Kenny.

Tom and Grace shared powerful insights about their journeys with music, perseverance, and self-belief. Grace wowed the crowd with her performance and personal story, while Tom inspired students with how he turned his passion into a career.

Here’s what some of our students had to say:
🎶 “It would be so awesome if I could make a job out of doing what I love.”
🎤 “I liked hearing about their stories.”
🌟 “Follow your dream and rise above others who try and push you down!”

Year 10 Pathways Camp

Year 10 Pathways Camp - Melbourne
Over the week of May 26th through May 30th the year 10 students journeyed to Melbourne for their annual Pathways Camp.
The group was separated into two camps with Maguire and McAuley going from May 26th to 28th, while Egan and Rice went from the 28th to the 30th.
After leaving Emmanuel College bleary eyed on their first day, the camps headed into the Melbourne CBD to start their camp off at the CYC on Collins Street where they would call home base.

Activities on the first day included a tour around Australian Catholic University, some time to wander around Melbourne Central Shopping Center and some burgers at Royal Stacks. The other group headed to Hardrock for some indoor rock climbing, Melbourne Museum to see the latest exhibits and had dinner down Lygon Street.

On the second day, both groups attended a session at the Jewish Holocaust Museum which was incredibly moving and informative.During both camps' final day the students visited various TAFEs around the city, these included Citipower Centre, Kangan, Whitehouse Fashion and Design, Photography Studies College and William Angliss. The students had a blast, were incredibly well behaved and hopefully had some insight into where they see their future pathways once their time at Emmanuel College has finished. 

Ms Kristy Cameron
Head of McAuley House

Sports News - 2025 GWR Cross Country

Emmanuel College shines at the 2025 GWR Cross Country

On Monday May 26th, nearly 60 of our dedicated students braved the cool and windy conditions at Albert Park to compete in the 2025 Greater Western Region Cross Country event.

This event also showcased our new cross country and athletics uniforms, which were proudly worn by our students and stood out amongst the crowd on the day!

We had some outstanding performances, with five age group teams qualifying for the State Championships, along with 22 individual athletes also advancing.

Despite the tough weather, the support and encouragement between teammates were remarkable, and every student should be proud of their effort.

Congratulations to the following athletes who finished in the top 12 and will go on to represent our school at the State SSV Championships at the beginning of Term 3:

We wish them all the best as they prepare for the next stage of competition!

Mr Mark Jansz
Teacher

Senior & Intermediate Netball

Yesterday, Tuesday June 10th, 9 senior girls gave up their student free day to represent Emmanuel College at the regional round of SSV netball in chilly Ballarat.

During the day, we were victorious in wins against Trinity College Colac, Ballarat High School and Horsham College.

Successfully making the Grand Final, we faced Trinity College Colac, who we beat during the rounds by only 1 goal.

In an intense and highly skilled game, Trinity College jumped early and had a 5-goal lead in the first 3 mins of the 12 min halves.

With scores locked at half time, the pressure continued with fast passages of play and beautiful execution of ball movement in the goal circle. Unfortunately, Trinity College Colac was too strong in the end winning by 3 goals.

Congratulations to the 9 girls who played on the day:

Kirra Beardsley
Molly McLaren 
Amelia Harris
Hannah O'Keeffe
Scarlett O'Donnell
Lila Wilkinson
Lila Evans
Kimora Calloway
Hannah van de Camp

Also, thanks to those who participated at local level but were unavailable on the day; Eva Ryan (VIS commitments), Matilda Darcy & Indigo Sewell (unwell)

Intermediate netball
An extremely talented combination of Year 9/10 netballers progressed at the local round of school netball to today's SSV regional round in Ballarat along with the senior girls.

With 4 pool games against Trinity Colac, Mercy Regional College Camperdown, Horsham College, Ballarat High the winner at the end of the day was deemed victorious in progressing to the state finals.

Emmanuel was undefeated throughout the day, with great depth from the 12 players and some great rotations and netball skills on show.

They now advance to the state finals in early September in Melbourne.

Congratulations to the 9 girls who played on the day:

Edie Batt
Rosie Bowman
Ginger Butters
Addison Conheady
Chloe Gleeson
Lucy Howland
Rushleigh Jeffries
Stella Marris
Ruby McKinley
Maya Rhodes
Charlotte Smedts
Sophie Smith

Ms Sophie Adams & Mrs Kate Foster - Intermediate coaches 

Thanks to our umpire, Kain Ryan who helped officiate all day, Liv Wolter for being a great help and the ever-enjoyable bus ride with our esteemed bus driver; Jaffa.

We welcome the outcomes of the Year 7 & Year 8 teams results when they head to Ballarat to compete later this term.

Mrs Leah Kermeen
Senior Netball Coach

Junior Soccer

Junior Soccer
Friday June 6th, Emmanuel College took part in the Junior School Soccer Competition held at Harris Street Reserve in Warrnambool. Despite the cold and wet conditions, our Year 7 and Year 8 teams showed determination, teamwork, and skill—winning every game they played!

The Year 7 team showing real teamwork delivered a strong performance, with a win against Kings College. Meanwhile, our Year 8 team dominated their matches, defeating Kings College, Brauer College and Warrnambool College without conceding a single goal all day!

Both teams have now earned a spot in the GWR competition, to be held in Ballarat in Term 3. Really proud of the efforts on the day and can’t wait to see them represent Emmanuel College at the next level.

A huge thank you goes to all our student helpers and to Mr Alger and Mrs Jenny Callaghan for their outstanding support with coaching and umpiring on the day.

Mrs Jenny Callaghan
Teacher

Career News

Citipower, Powercor and United Energy
Students interested in pursuing a career as an Apprentice Line Worker are invited to attend an information session hosted by Powercor.

Date: Tuesday 25th June
Time: 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Where: Powercor Depot, 7 Strong Street, Warrnambool

The information session will cover:

• The recruitment process, including aptitude testing
  
• The Apprentice Line Worker role
  
• Video screening and formal interview insights
  
• A Q&A with a current Line Worker and Apprentice
  
• A guided depot tour.
  

A valuable opportunity for students considering a hands-on trade career, if you are interested in attending this session, please contact Stephen McConnell E: SMcconnell@powercor.com.au

Recruitment will be commencing mid-July.

Mr David Gladman
Student Pathways & Careers Leader

Marcus Oldham College Open Day

Explore Careers in Agriculture or Agribusiness

Marcus Oldham College is inviting students considering a future in Agriculture or Agribusiness to attend their upcoming Open Day:

Date: Sunday 27th July
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Where: On campus in Geelong, 145 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds (with LiveStreamed sessions available)

Register here: marcusoldham.vic.edu.au/open-day

Students can attend in person or join online. During registration, students can select the course selections they're interested in and receive a personalised schedule ahead of the event.

Open Day highlights include:

• An overview and comparison of the Agriculture and Agribusiness programs
• Opportunities to meet with lecturing staff in small groups or one-on-one
• Insights from current students and alumni
• Campus tours, including learning and accommodation facilities
• A real sense of the “Marcus experience,” including their unique learning model and college life

This year, Marcus Oldham is excited to showcase its brand hew 45-bed accommodation wing - now home to many students.

Also, from 2026 Marcus Oldham will offer two intakes per year for the Bachelor of Business - Agribusiness, allowing more students to access their applied, industry-focused learning model. This expansion is designed to meet growing demand, while maintaining their commitment to small class sizes, strong industry connections, and high academic standards.

Dates to Diarise in Term 4:

• Melbourne Careers Expo - Friday 25 - Sunday 27 July
• University / TAFE Open Days 2025 - Late July, & throughout August
• Year 12 VTAC Timely Applications - Late July throughout August & September
• VTAC SEAS & Scholarships Applications - Throughout August & September

Additional Information - More information can be found on the Emmanuel College Careers Website: https://www.emmanuelcollegecareers.com/

Items in the Careers News for the upcoming week include:

• Career as Orthotists or Prosthetists
• Accounting & Business Information Technology (Professional) at Swinburn University
• The Difference between Financial Planning, Finance, and Accounting at Deakin University
• Experience a 'Day in the Life' at La Trobe University
• SW Accountants & Advisors: School Leaver and Undergraduate Program 2026
• Global And International  Studies Degrees in Victoria 2025
• Snapshot of The University of Sydney 2025

Mr David Gladman
Student Pathways & Careers Leader

2025 Tax Appeal

The 2025 Tax Appeal is focused on supporting scholarships and growing funds to increase the number of worthy recipients which can benefit from the program.

Our sincere thanks to those of you who have already donated to support the Foundation.

With less than a month to go in this financial year, you’re invited to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Emmanuel Scholarship Fund, where every donation, no matter how big or small, is truly valued.

Enquiries about making a donation can be directed to abyrne@emmanuel.vic.edu.au or by visiting https://www.emmanuel.vic.edu.au/foundation/scholarship-appeal-2025

Ms Alison Byrne
Executive Officer- ECW Foundation

Upcoming Events

Wednesday 11 June
Semester 2 Subject Change Week
Junior Science Olympiad Exams Years 9 & 10
VCE & Year 10 Drama Play Excursion

Thursday 12 June
GWR  Junior Girls Football

Year 10 Subject Selection Seminar
Child Safety Committee Meeting

Friday 13 June
Junior Science Olympiad Exams Years 7 & 8
Children's Ground Casual Dress Day, Gold Coin Donation

Monday 16 June
Year 9 Immersion Week
Year 10 Legal - Warrnambool Magistrate's Court Excursion

Tuesday 17 June
GAT - General Achievement Test
Independent Learning for Year 11 & 12 students who are not sitting the GAT

Wednesday 18 June 
Deakin Discovery Day - all Year 10
Premier League Boys Football - The Reid Oval Time TBC
Project Rockit - Year 8 Periods 3 & 4.  Year 7 Periods 5 & 6

Thursday 20 June
Year 7 & Year 8 Mock Elections

Friday 21 June
Year 7 - Mock Election Voting
Public Speaking Competition
Year 8 English Acceleration Class - 'Yes Yes Yes' Performance Lighthouse Theatre
Year 12 Winter Ball

Monday 23 June
Year 7 Music Note Concert - 5 Classes

Child Safety

Community News