There are just two words on everybody’s lips this week - quite literally - Mamma Mia!

“Mammamia” is an expression known to we older folk as an Italian exclamation of shock or disbelief as well as surprise or joy! Having watched the last two nights’ performances of this year’s wonderful College Production I am certainly left with feelings of incredulity. I am in awe of the immense talent amongst the performers, in awe of the technical skill of the behind the scenes crew and in awe of the creativity and vision of our performing arts educators. I caught myself staring at the silhouette of the cast beautifully lit under the branches of our own Caritas Christi tree that now signals the entry into the Greek taverna that has told a story that will sit with many of us for years to come. Of significant delight was sharing the absolute joy amongst all those involved in Mama Mia - not only that of the cast and crew who have accomplished something so impressive through collaboration, but also the joy generated for their families, peers and staff. There has been plenty of swaying, foot tapping and singing in the seats as we have joined in the magical contagion of the music. A huge round of applause to all! And if you have not yet made it to a performance, I encourage you to grab those last seats tonight!

Today we had 15 students join the College for their Orientation Day as they prepare to join the College in 2025. As is our custom, these students were welcomed by student buddies, introducing them to their House and Tutor group as well as accompanying them into the learning experiences of St Vincent’s College. Many new students say they have chosen our College in response to word of mouth from current families – hoping for a community nurtured by good relationships and a holistic education grounded on values that embrace learning by developing the competencies and confidence that will allow them to thrive and grow as a person of service in their world. I was incredibly proud of our students both in the Boarding House and day school for their courtesy in conversation and care in making these new members of our community feel very welcome.

Mrs Elizabeth Brooks

Deputy Principal

We have made it to the end of the week, and that is a miracle that feels akin to some events of biblical ilk. The hampers are done!  Go Vinnies.  Ms Fletcher is so happy with us all.  A huge thank you to all families for their generous contributions to this year’s Christmas Hamper Appeal. This is the first year we have partnered with Family Spirit to support vulnerable families in need, and the initiative has been a resounding success. All six Houses have contributed to the creation of 35 hampers, brimming with essential household items, pantry staples, personal care products, and festive gifts and decorations for each family member. A special thank you to Year 8 students, whose enthusiasm and dedication in their tutor groups were instrumental in driving the collection and packing the hampers. The St Vincent's community will certainly brighten the Christmas day of many families who are struggling and whom we know are close by.

We had our last Night Patrol for the year on Thursday, ably led by Ms Jacobs, Ms De Prendegast, Mr Hennesy and accompanied by Julia Machliss.  Great job, Julia.  We have had a few cases of ‘no show’ with social justice events this term.  I do try to send a reminder email before each event, but the old fashioned idea of writing down dates when we sign up for things seems to have gone the way of the teledex and the electric can opener.  The result is that the people we serve miss out, of course. Don’t worry, girls. Next year will bring new possibilities for involvement and the challenge of being on top of things even more.  You can do it, Vinnie’s, because you are fantastic.  None of us are perfect, but some of you come dangerously close.

The team has been selling popcorn, muffins and drinks at Mamma Mia this week to raise funds for our Immersion to Tanzania. We had a big goal trying to raise enough money to fund a special project for Gemma Sisia at St Jude’s, as well as provide a washing machine for the Christian Brothers in Arusha, who are looking after us when we run the Kids Camp for the local children, and we also want to provide the whole primary graduating class from Emusoi Centre with mosquito nets so they have some comfort and safety from Malaria as they head off to secondary school.  I hope we have the funds to provide those 28 mosquito nets. Emusoi is a school for girls who have escaped the threat of gender based violence and child marriage at home.  Sometimes they run away, sometimes their mothers bring them to the centre and then go home to face the consequences. That’s too much to think about really, but we need to.  I’m very grateful for the opportunity to sell the popcorn even if that rich buttery smell is emanating from my office, and possibly my person.  I even get to hear the show, which is perfect, so no complaints from me, and my team of helpers is entertaining and so capable.

It was Zooper Dooper Friday.  Thank goodness it was hot.  We managed to sell out.  The money from the Zooper Doopers is going towards mosquito nets for the Emusoi girls.  Fingers crossed we have enough.  Mrs Brooks, Ms Geracitano and I are headed to Tanzania on Dec 4 with 15 of the most extraordinary Year 12s in the world.  We’ve done weeks of preparation and formation.  I am very proud of these girls, and I’m very proud of the group of girls who are NOT coming but who have baked and sold, and worked so hard to help us raise funds.  That’s real social justice in action, isn’t it.  There’s no point talking about justice; we have to do it, even if there is no pay off for us in the end.  As our girls would say, we do it because we are all one.  I am you, and you are me, all loved and treasured by God.

Here’s some quotes from 3 girls who are headed to Tanzania.  They gave a presentation at the College Assembly this week.  Clare Sandham led us in prayer, teaching us some Swahili, and then Ava Hogan, Jessica McAusland and I’m so proud of them.

“I think it is easier to tell you what an immersion is not. It is not a trip, a pilgrimage, a volunteer experience, service learning or mission work. It is about a change in both the heart and the head.  It will provide us with the desire to make a positive change in our world. Drawing on what Ignatius calls us to do:  lead with ‘Action’.”

“We want to learn what these communities need from us. What can we do that will positively benefit their lives, whether it is advocating for their school, raising valuable donations or supporting children with their education.  We know that they will give us so much more than we can give them.”

“In a world often divided by distance and difference this immersion offers a rare, but cherished, chance to break down barriers and connect with others. These relationships will not just be a part of this journey, they will stay with us, shaping the way we view the world and our role in it long after the immersion ends.  It is our intention and our hope that we bring all we learn back to you.”

You can see why I’m so proud.

The Matt Talbot team did some great work yesterday.  They finished off some wet packs, and I’ll deliver them on Monday.  They are too heavy to carry, really.

We have one more Cupcake day for 2025.  It would be great if it was a bumper edition.  If your daughter hasn’t made any cupcakes for St Canice’s this year, here’s her chance.  She can just sign up on the Student Life Classroom.

I have one more load of stuff to deliver to Open Support next week.  Our girls made up some little mindfulness colouring-in packs for the children who will make Room 5 their home for a few months. They’ve written little notes and tied them up with a pretty bow.  That would have to be a good and gentle thing to do to support a family in crisis.  The colouring books include some nice quotes from Mary Aikenhead which might be helpful.  As my friend Fr Des Dwyer always says, never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit to sneak up on you and surprise you with loving joy.

And last but not least, our Year 7s were superb this morning in their presentation of the Nativity.  A couple of characters were missing, which on reflection may be either biblically correct or biblically challenging.  Either  way they were just great.  Sage Croft found the energy after leaping about the stage in Mamma Mia last night,  to lead the Christmas Carols.

She was beautiful.  The Three Wise Hens, Sarah, Kate and Tessie, made an appearance looking very confused, and made it home in time to lay 3 eggs ready for breakfast in the morning.  Pippa the sheepdog was her usual perfect self, keeping watch over the imaginary sheep, sitting still in the hay.  I wish I’d found a lamb or two to bring in.  They sell lamb at Woolies, of course, but packaged differently from what might give the desired aesthetic.

I end with our  prayer written by Sadie Adair and led by Clare Sandham:

Kwa jina Baba, na la Mwana,  Na la Roho Mtakatifu  Amina.

(In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen)

God of all places, God of all times, God of all people

We ask your blessing on us as we embark on this journey.

Keep us safe in body, mind and heart as we strive to conquer challenges.

To learn new ways and to love more.

Grant us a renewed heart so that we are open to love and transformation

Grant us open minds so that we can connect to others, drawing parallels in our lives.

Grant us the courage to change the world

so that we can contribute to building your kingdom here and now.

Give us:

Courage in companionship, tenacity in hardship, strength in times of anguish,

and hope in times of hopelessness

Kwa jina Baba, na la Mwana, Na la Roho Mtakatifu, Amina.

Mrs Jo Kenderes

Director of Faith and Mission

SVC Annual Dance Concert  - What a Fantastic evening! - Ms Johnson Head of Performing Arts

Each year the College’s Dance Concert has had a theme that ties the show together to ensure the audience is taken on a performative journey. This year's theme was The Vinnies Movement Awards and so had students ‘hosting’ as glamorous Actresses introducing each section of the evening. The show had incredible ‘award’ sections where you could really see the different artistic concepts and styles that the choreographers had been inspired by.

I would like to congratulate the very hard working and talented Ms Chloe Wong who choreographed all the Year 7 Musical Theatre numbers, her own ensemble numbers, and many of the curriculum numbers. She also supported students with their own choreography planned, costumed and co-ordinated supervision and even created the programme. Chloe has been a powerhouse of energy, support and kindness with her students and colleagues.

Chloe and I would like to extend a special acknowledgement to our exceptional tutors: Miss Laura Fishwick for her amazing work with the Ballet Ensembles and Co-curricular students, and Miss Indiah Ide, Ms Matilda Zorlu, Miss Olivia Garland and Ms Stephanie Pretorius for being passionate choreographers and assisting with the Jazz and Hip Hop ensembles this year and Mrs Belinda Peoples, Co-curricular Coordinator for their assistance in planning the concert and continued advocacy for dance at the college.

SVC Dance Concert - Ms Chloe Wong - Dance teacher and tutor

This year was a celebration of the legacy that is Dance at St Vincent’s College. The VMAs are our opportunity to recognise the talent, motivation and passion of all our students involved in the Dance program. With involvement in elective, co-curricular dance, ensemble and Year 7 Musical Theatre taking the stage. Our dancers are able to perform, create, and choreograph using their critical thinking and social skills. These are valuable traits that are transferable in and out of the studio, and as they leave the College.

Dance education is a unique platform in which all individual strengths and diversity are valued and channelled in the studio. Discipline, determination and resilience are all qualities shown in our dancers as they consider the physical, social and cognitive aspects of every lesson. The Dance program at St Vincent’s College is designed to support the diversities and unique experiences our students have to offer and provide them the opportunity to grow. Through the medium of dance, students have embodied a range of subjects, including political, social and global themes, engaging in meaningful discussion to interpret these concepts and express them through movement for the performance. This has refined not only their physical skills to meet the demands of the performances but also encourages collaboration and relationships as they work as a team with their peers and teachers.

In the current year, the achievements of the Dance program are endless. I feel incredibly privileged to support all the dancers at the College and encourage them to seize every opportunity to continue building their performance skills on their schooling journey. Our Year 12 students have once again displayed their artistic maturity by creating a unique and sophisticated collection of practical works. These final projects act as a reflection of their growth and determination over their years of study. In addition, four HSC works from our 2024 class were nominated by NESA for the state Callback showcase.

Co-ordinator of Sport: Jacinta Jacobs: 0418 416 663 - jacobs@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Head of Touch & Volleyball Ms Elyse Harmanis
0434 610 870 elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Head of Water Polo Mr Jo Schuleer - 0450 886 973 - waterpolo@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Head of Tennis Ms Tonya Hetreles - 0411 984352 - tennis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Website: www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/learning/sport

For all draw and venue information go to: www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/sport/weekly-sports-draw/

IGSA Spawtz: https://igsasport.spawtz.com/

As the season draws to a near, please make sure you are still doing the right thing and attending training and giving 100% to your team and coach. There are no finals for the iGSA sports, it’s first past the post, so keep pushing hard right to the end. We are about to do the grading for next term’s competitions and some teams may slightly change so please keep striving to do your best and play with Vinnie’s spirit.

We are excited to announce that we have an Olympian medal winner from the Australian Water Polo Stingers Team coming to talk to our Junior Firsts and Senior Firsts on Wednesday morning at their training session.

Dani Jackovich will bring a wealth of knowledge and her Olympic Medal to show our girls on Wednesday morning so please make sure you are all there!

IGSA TENNIS
Across the board, Vinnies had super close matches either finishing with one set difference or a tie letting the result be decided by number of games. SVC 1 had a long and tough battle against the top-of-the-table team, which we rose exceptionally well to. Incredible tennis had spectators unable to look away through all the deuces and tie breakers. Playing catch up a lot of the time, a tied score with an overall loss by only 3 games showcased how strong our girls can be under pressure.

SVC 2 had a tight win by only 2 games. These girls have improved their rallying and serving ability exponentially and it’s great to see their competitive side. We are proud to see their persistence under such pressure.
SVC 3 had a closely contested battle resulting in nearly half the matches ending in ties. The girls showed great grit in all matches, particularly when down. The girls showed nerves of steel during the pressure points to help secure games for their team.

SVC 4 a narrow win keeps this team undefeated this season! The girls’ doubles improved, showcased by an increased confidence to execute volleys. This team continued to dominate their doubles matches despite changing order and some faced more challenging opponents.
SVC 5 had a tight match too, with only one set difference. All girls were battling it out with long rallies against brick wall opponents. Some fantastic shots from us continuously put our opponents in tough positions, we love to see the tactical side of this sport come out in these matches.

SVC 6 always prove to be a challenge to verse, with all girls improving their shots as well as communication on the court. Their rallying skills and serving have definitely been two spots of immense improvement and we hope they can continue their good work into the final weeks.
SVC 7 played valiantly as they faced tough competition. The girls have seen an improvement in their performance through longer rallies and experience. It is great to see their confidence growing (especially in doubles) and we hope this continues.

Ms Tonya Hetreles - Head Tennis Coach

I GSA WATER POLO

This term, the Water Polo teams at St Vincent's College have faced a mix of challenges and learning experiences. Each week, our players have worked hard to improve their skills and adapt to the environment, getting better each week and looking promising as we build for next term.

SVC 1 has had a tough season, but showed a lot of fight in a handful of close matches. Despite the challenges, the team has shown resilience and a willingness to learn from each match, which will be important as they head into a tough final match this weekend against number 2 on the table.

SVC 2 has struggled this term, in an extremely tough division. But the team has stayed positive, learning from each game and are focused on using this experience to build for next term. With a lot of good juniors coming through next term we'll see the seniors teams gain some added strength as water polo continues to grow.

SVC 3 has had a very balanced year, currently sitting on 2 wins, 2 losses and a draw heading into the final game. They're hoping to tip the scales this weekend to leapfrog themselves into the Top 4 to finish the year strong.

SVC 4 has been the standout team this term for Vinnies Water Polo under coach Loui, currently sitting at the top of the table with only one loss the team is heading into the final round as the favourites. With a win this weekend they will secure their place in first and be crowned the winners for Term 4. All eyes will be on Junior firsts’ as they look to bring home the premiership.

SVC 5 has faced some difficulties in a tough grade, but have grown as a team, consistently improving with each match and showing moments of promise that they can build upon heading into their final game, looking to finish off strong.

SVC 6 has faced a challenging term in their first year of school girl competition. Despite these challenges, they continue to grow as a team and have shown great potential in some close losses that could have tipped them into medal consideration.

As we head into the final round, all teams have great matchups and are looking to finish the year on a high.

Best of luck to all teams this weekend!

Mr Jo Schuler - Head Water Polo Coach

ESTA TOUCH FOOTBALL

Congratulations to all 19 Touch Football teams for their exceptional performances this term! Your dedication, teamwork, and skill have made Saturday morning sport a true highlight of the week. I am delighted to announce that 15 of our teams have successfully secured a place in the semi-finals this weekend, well done girls!

As we approach these critical matches, please ensure you check the updated draw available on the SVC website under Touch. For boarders, it is important to confirm transportation arrangements for Saturday mornings. Attendance is vital for these final matches, and we encourage all players to give their best effort on the field.

Looking ahead, if any teams progress to the Grand Finals next week, please note that training sessions scheduled for Wednesday morning and afternoon will be rescheduled due to Speech Night. Updated training days will be communicated once results are confirmed. Teams advancing to the Grand Finals that train on Monday and Thursday will continue their schedules as normal. Please stay updated by checking the SVC website and your email regularly for any changes to training or game details.

Best of luck to all teams competing in the semi-finals & Play offs this weekend. Let’s finish the season strong and bring the trophy back to Rockwall!

Go Vinnies!

SANTA SABINA VOLLEYBALL

This term, Volleyball has been an incredible journey of growth and development for all our teams. Each week, our players embraced challenges, honed their skills, and delivered stronger performances on the court.

SVC 1 demonstrated outstanding progress, facing tough competition and earning well deserved victories. Their determination and teamwork were unstoppable, with the team bringing both skill and a little flair to every match proving that they’re as fun to watch as they are fierce on the court!

SVC 2 is having a strong season, securing key wins and pushing through close losses. Their persistence and commitment have placed them in a competitive position on the ladder, and they are fired up for a big performance this Saturday as they chase another victory.

SVC 3 faced a few challenging moments but wrapped up the season with tremendous improvement and unwavering dedication. Their weekly progress showcased their resilience and team spirit, demonstrating a commitment to both the game and each other.

SVC 4 displayed steady improvement throughout the term, rising to meet each challenge with enthusiasm and grit. Their growing confidence and teamwork have been evident in every match, setting the foundation for even greater success next season.

SVC 5 has been a powerhouse this term, dominating their division and proudly sitting in first place . Their consistent performances, excellent teamwork, and sheer determination have been nothing short of inspiring. With the final rounds approaching, they’re ready to bring their best and finish the season on a high.

Please note that this term follows a first past the post format for finals, and next week will mark the end of the season.

Good luck, and Go Vinnies!

Ms Elyse Harmanis - Head Touch and Volleyball Coach

SPORTS STARS OF THE WEEK This section is to make the College community aware of some of the exceptional athletes we have in the College.  If your daughter has represented her state or country recently in her chosen Sport, please send us any results, photos or blurbs on her performance to jacobs@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Congratulations to - Jana Kowalski yr 10 who competed in the 2024 MSW Open Water Championships, where she secured 1st place in the 10k race and achieved a national qualifying time. She is now set to compete in the 2025 Australian Open Water Championships in Busselton, WA. Well done Jana!

Congratulations to our Sporters of the Year for 2024 - At Speech Night next week the major Sports Awards will be presented for  Junior and Senior Sportswoman of the Year and Team of the Year. But we also have some other Individual Awards that are given each year to recognise the most outstanding student in each of the major sports played at the College. Some of these awards have already been presented if they were yr 12 students and the rest were presented on Assembly this week.

Congratulations to the following students who were voted by their Head Coaches as being the most valuable in their sport for 2024:

Basketball Player of the Year - Ava McDonnell - Zammit - Year 10

Cross Country Runner of the Year - Tess Edwards - Year 10

Netball Player of the Year  - Inez McPherson - Year 10.

Swimmer of  the Year  - Ali Green - Year 10

Tennis Player of the Year  - Ruby Malamas - Year 10

Touch Player of the Year  - Evie Bresnahan - Year 10

Ms Jacinta Jacobs

Co-ordinator of Sport

Career News November 15

Career News November 22

University of Sydney

Architecture, Design and Planning Webinar -

Build Your Portfolio

26 November

4pm

A great portfolio could help you gain entry into your dream course. Hear from the School of Architecture, Design and Planning about USYD’s Portfolio Admission Pathway, including tips on how to build a creative portfolio. Use the link found here to register your interest.

UNSW, Kensington

UNSW Accommodation Tours

7 December

12.40-1.20pm

Join UNSW resident fellows, who will guide you on a tour of UNSW’s colleges and facilities. They will share what it is like to live on campus and answer any questions you may have.The tours will begin and finish near the UNSW Accommodation Office at the Gate 5 Kensington campus entrance on High Street. Registrations for this event are essential using the link found here .

Australian Catholic University

Western Civilisation Program Summer School

Tuesday 21 January to Wednesday 22 January 2025

Holiday Workshop

North Sydney Campus

This free, two-day event is an opportunity for Years 11 & 12 2025 students to learn about literature, engage in exciting discussions and meet other like-minded peers. For more information and to register your interest use the link found here.

Discover Law and Criminology

ACU: North Sydney

28 November

4-6pm

Aspiring lawyers will have the chance to develop their analytical and courtroom skills in our law and criminology workshops. These hands-on activities will provide you with an insight into the Australian legal system and its functions. Visit ACU’s moot court, chat to current students, hear about international study opportunities and find out what it is like to study Law at ACU. This event is designed for high school students in Years 10 to 12, however parents and caregivers are most welcome to attend. Places are limited – be sure to register your attendance to guarantee your spot by using the link found here .

ANU, Canberra

Webinar

Moving Interstate for University

9 December

Join the Future Students team to hear about life on campus at the Australian National University. During this webinar you will hear from current students with lived experience, discussing what it’s like to move interstate for university, the different accommodation communities on campus, the various supports available including the Tertiary Access Payment, networks/clubs to join and the essentials to settle in comfortably. There will also be a live Q&A session where you can get all your questions answered.

This webinar aims to provide prospective interstate, including NSW students, with all the information they need to feel confident and prepared for their move to ANU. It’s a great opportunity to get a real sense of what to expect and to ask any questions you might have. To register your interest for this webinar use the link found here .

ANU Campus Tours

Tours available every Saturday until 14 December, ANU will be running Campus Tours through the school holidays and on weekends for the rest of the year. For the specific times of these tours, please go to the booking page. For more information see the attached link found here .

Macquarie University

MQ Science Lecture: ‘Tomorrow’s Universe – the Discoveries that will Change Science’

5 December

6-7.15pm

Join Australia’s Astronomer-at-Large, Professor Fred Watson AM , for an engaging and visually captivating lecture as he takes you on a journey into the future of astronomy.

This free public event welcomes all curious minds including children aged 10 and up,

Registrations for this event are essential using the link found here.

T OCAL

Courses in Bees

Australia is the 4th biggest exporter of honey in the world, and a growing fascination with bees among the wider community has made beekeeping an increasingly popular hobby. Tocal has industry-standard publications for beekeepers, and industry-led practical training to take that knowledge into the field. Tocal’s Certificate III in Beekeeping has reopened for expressions of interest with face-to-face training being conducted at the Tamworth Agricultural Institute. Please see the link found here to apply. Short courses will be held at various locations around NSW, to inquire about a short course in your area please contact beekeeping@dpi.nsw.gov.au and take a look at TOCAL’s website found here.

Helen Marshall

Careers Adviser

Save the Date

Friday May 2nd to Sunday May 4th.

Tickets will go on sale early February when school returns

A good accommodation option is Ibis Styles Tamworth and they are doing a special Vinnies' mums' weekend special, just quote St Vincent's College when booking.