Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,

As we bid farewell to the closing chapter of Term 3 2023, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude. My reflection on the last fortnight on behalf of Principal Mr Philip Morison, who is on a Year 10 trip to Tasmania, and the term as a whole is best summed up in two words — “wow” and “whoosh”.

When I look back on the past fortnight, I can’t help but expand on the themes of celebration, diverse talent and a sense of community. These were the ‘wow’ moments. When I think of how fast paced it all unfolded, I must admit it felt like it went past in a ‘whoosh’.

Mercy Day

Last Friday (8 September), was Mercy Day. Despite the inclement weather, we adapted and in the true spirit of Catherine McAuley simply got on with things. Between the homeroom stalls, food vans and rides there was a hum of ‘togetherness’. The much-anticipated Mercy Idol concert, which included the legendary staff band, followed by the Year 12 Parade, was pure, unadulterated fun. Together, we literally ‘weathered’ the challenges and created a rich tapestry of experiences that will add another chapter to our rich cultural heritage in this event. I would like to acknowledge the leadership of Ms Elizabeth Keogh, Deputy Principal — Mission, who coordinated this event with staff and students with unfailing faith and energy. You can read more about Mercy Day HERE.

Performing Arts

On Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of attending the annual Performing Arts Showcase. I was literally tapping my toes and moving my lips along to an incredible plethora of music. The audience was taken on a journey from western classical to pop, with a dip into musical theatre, a sharp drop into pulsating rock, balanced out with some smooth jazz. The voice of angels in solo, ensemble and choir formation brought a tear to the eye of some. Performing Arts Faculty Learning Leader Ms Wendy Anderson and the Performing Arts staff are to be congratulated on inspiring and fostering these talents.

Market Day

Yesterday, our VCE Vocational Major (VM) students showcased their talents in their annual VM Market Day. I was cajoled into buying a burger with the lot, then forked out for raffle tickets for a high quality craft hamper and then indulged in two very delicious cake pops … which I really did not need but was too weak to resist. Congratulations to Mrs Kristy Brown, the Applied Learning Leader, and her team of VM teachers for facilitating this event and making it a rich experience for us all.

Trips

In other news, the much-anticipated Term 3 trips and tours to Tasmania, Central Australia and Japan are underway. We wish all the staff and students a safe journey and we look forward to tales of their travels.

Personal pars

On a more solemn note, I wish to inform you of two families in our community who have experienced recent loss. We pray for the souls of Mrs Pam Dunn (wife of past staff member Mr Terry Dunn), who passed away on Thursday, and for the soul of Rolf de Betue, father of Stephan de Betue and grandfather of Lauren (Year 12 Green) and Aidan (Year 10 Purple), who passed away last week. We keep the Dunn and de Betue families in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May their souls rest in peace.

Trial exams

Looking ahead, please note that next week our Unit 3-4 students will be doing their trial exams. This is a critical time in their preparation for their final written exams, which will commence on Tuesday 24 October. Please refer to the communications already sent regarding this by Barak Campus Director Mr Kamahl Russell.

Term 4

A reminder that the start of Term 4 commences for staff and students on Monday 2 October and it marks the return to our full summer uniform. Please review the College calendar for further key dates.

So, as we break for this well-deserved respite, let us carry forward the learnings and memories from all the ‘wow’ and ‘whoosh’ moments of this term. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared Mercy education values.

Wishing one and all a restful and rejuvenating break, and I look forward to the exciting opportunities to do our best and give our best that await us in Term 4.

As our gardens begin to fill with beautiful spring flowers and the days become longer and warmer, let us reflect on the renewal that can also take place inwardly. Spring gives us all an opportunity for a new beginning.

For now the winter is past, the rain is over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.

New Beginnings

Blessed are you, Creator, God of new beginnings.

For you challenge us to move beyond our past,

And call us into fresh possibilities for the future.

Blessed are you, Lord of the impossible,

For you never get discouraged and never cease to hope,

For a happier, fairer and wiser world.

Blessed are you, God of the covenant,

For you make promises and never break them,

For you trust us to do good and love us when we fail

You daily renew our confidence and courage.

God of unconditional love, help us to believe in ourselves as you believe in us.

Help us to see our potential as you see it.

Constantly provide us with the new opportunities promised by your covenant.

Inspire us with the dreams to follow new paths of potential growth and goodness.

— Adapted from Prayers for Schools CEIST

Dates

• 13-21 September — Tasmania Tour
  
• 14-24 September — Central Australia Tour
• 15 September-2 October — Japan Study Tour
  
• Friday 15 September — Term 3 ends (2.30pm finish)
• Friday 22 September — College Office closes at 4.00pm for the school holidays
• Monday 2 October — Term 4 commences (College Office opens at 8.00am)
• Monday 2 October — VCE performance and oral exams commence
• Saturday 7 October — MLMC Old Collegians' Awards Gala Dinner
• 9-13 October — Visual Arts, Technology and Design Exhibition (parent viewing night will be Thursday 12 October).

A SunSmart College

As mentioned in the last newsletter, MLMC is a SunSmart College, and as such, we require all students to wear a hat when out in the sun at recess and lunchtime in Terms 1 and 4. This is important for protecting students from the harmful effects of the sun's rays.

With it being months since students were expected to wear a hat, your child’s hat may be lost. Please help us by ensuring your child has a hat ready for the start of Term 4 (on Monday 2 October) and that they know the importance of wearing it.

Summer uniform

As is normal practice, the College will be transitioning into full summer uniform by the Melbourne Cup long weekend. Full winter or full summer uniform can be worn (not a mixture of the two) from the start of Term 4 until the Melbourne Cup long weekend (Friday 3 November). Hats, however, are compulsory from the start of Term 4.

Summer dresses

Please take some time now to ensure that summer dresses fit properly, particularly the length. Uniform requirements are that the dress reaches the knee. Having to deal with uniform matters can be totally prevented with your cooperation. Please ensure your child’s uniform is as it should be before they return in Term 4.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us to ensure that all students are dressed appropriately for the weather and for sun safety.

Second hand uniform pop-up shop 

The College will be holding a second hand uniform pop-up shop in the school holidays to clear the items that have been donated in previous years.

Dates: Wednesday 20 September and Friday 22 September

Time: 11.00am to 3.00pm

Location: McAuley Hall

Cost: Gold coin per item (all money raised will be donated to Mercy Works).

The following items will be available; winter skirts, pants, shorts, summer dresses, sports polos and spray jackets. There will be various sizes on a first come-first served basis. Changerooms will not be available.

Please note we will not be taking any further uniform donations. Thank you for your generosity.

For parents who are looking to sell second hand uniforms, please head to The Sustainable School Shop (https://www.sustainableschoolshop.com.au/) as some of our parent community have been using this platform.

Central Australia, Tasmania and Japan tours

This week, students from Years 10 and 11 have taken off to different ends of Australia and also internationally, with some heading to Japan. Although Central Australia and Tasmania have been back as an extra camp at Year 10 since 2022, our international study tours have been waiting a little longer. Fourteen students will be making a return visit to our sister school, Horyuji High School, for the first time since 2019. Our Japanese friends visited us earlier this year and are now opening their homes to host our students. Following a nine-day home stay, our students will visit Hiroshima and then Tokyo, before finishing the trip with a visit to Disneyland. Keep an eye out for some great pictures.

Captain and Prefect positions

Letters will soon be sent informing students who applied for Captain and Prefect positions for 2024 the outcome of their applications. This year saw a very talented group of students apply, making the selection of the Student Leadership team a very difficult task. May I take this opportunity to thank those who did apply and encourage all students, whether they receive a position or not, to live by the words in their application and be leaders in 2024.

Naked lunches

In keeping with our commitment to reduce waste and promote sustainability, we would like to bring your attention to a small yet impactful change we can make together: rethinking how we package our children's lunches.

As many of you may recall, when your child was at primary school, it was common practice to send them to school with 'naked' lunches, where their meals were not wrapped in plastic or disposable packaging. This practice not only reduced waste but also encouraged a sense of environmental responsibility in our children.

Now, as our students progress into higher year levels we kindly request that we revisit this eco-conscious approach to lunch packaging. By doing so, we can support our College's ongoing efforts to minimise waste and promote sustainability. 

Here are a few reasons why we believe this change is important:

• environmental impact: the excessive use of plastic wrap, disposable containers, and single-use bags contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution. By choosing to pack 'naked' lunches, we can significantly reduce our ecological footprint and help protect our planet for future generations
• educational value: encouraging our children to use reusable lunch containers fosters a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness. It provides an excellent opportunity for parents and teachers to engage in discussions about sustainability and conservation
• cost savings: over time, investing in reusable lunch containers can save money compared to constantly purchasing disposable alternatives. It's a cost-effective choice that benefits both our wallets and the environment.

To assist you in this transition, here are a few simple tips for packaging 'naked' lunches:

• use reusable containers: invest in durable lunch boxes, thermoses, and containers that can be used repeatedly
• cloth napkins and utensils: encourage the use of reusable napkins and utensils rather than disposable options
• be mindful of food choices: choose fresh and whole foods that require minimal packaging, such as fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches.

We understand that change can be challenging, but we believe that together, as a supportive community, we can make a significant difference. Let's set an example for our children by showing them the importance of caring for our planet and making eco-friendly choices.

Have a great break

Although the school holidays are here and I wish you all a relaxing change of pace for the next two weeks, I would like to remind our Year 12 students of a few things. With the finish line not far away, be sure to replenish your energy levels, but remain focused and disciplined in your study and revision. Use this time to prepare for the last sprint.

Despite a rather wet and chilly day on Friday 8 September, we had an amazing celebration for Mercy Day. Catherine McAuley would have been proud!

The day started with all homerooms busily setting up their stalls and activities before moving into a beautiful liturgy prepared and led by the Year 12 Ministry students. The liturgy reflected on the Mercy value of Courage — and that was certainly displayed in the hours that followed. With some last-minute changes to venues, we managed to have a fun-filled day with students and staff participating in games, activities, Mercy Idol, the annual parade and much more.

Alongside the celebrations, Mercy Day gives us the opportunity to help those less fortunate and while we do not have our final amount, I can confidently say that we raised around $14,000. This money will go to Mercy Works to support their many projects. Well done to everyone for their part in this great experience.

Mercy Idol results:

1st — Kye A and Elena A (Somewhere Only We Know)

2nd — Campbell M, Mitch O, Sam W, Jayden I (We Will Rock You)

3rd — Taj R, Madii W, Luca B (the mega medley)

Mercy Day Parade results:

1st — 12 White Christmas

2nd — 12 Orange Olympics

3rd — 12 Gold Diggers 

How are we helping students best prepare for the examination period?

As we approach the upcoming VCAA examination period, in Barak Campus we are providing the following events and activities which will prepare students and help teachers enhance learning:

• Exam navigator assembly
• Units 3 and 4 trial exam week
• practice papers (students are encouraged to do one per subject per week)
• preparing revision materials/study booklets/notes
• online subject revision materials — on Google Classroom, Studiosity and Edrolo
• Homeroom teacher exam coaching
• pastoral support and care.

Motivating students to start revision-planning early

“Don’t worry, I’ve got it sorted…” or, “Yeah, I’ll get to that later…” or “I’m doing that next week…” — these may be a series of familiar phrases heard at home at the moment for some families. Procrastination and putting off (or avoiding) any upcoming challenge is a major hurdle for students in exam preparation. To be fair, teenagers are biologically and socially predisposed to procrastinate and put off “until tomorrow, what we need to do today”. One American study (Schouwenburg et al., 2006) estimates that over 70% of students “exhibit [this] behaviour” and another study identifies that “evaluation threat” and “fear of failure” peaks with higher levels of procrastination in young people.

Developing resilience, not just ‘coping’ with exam pressure

Our goal at MLMC is to assist students in developing their learning resilience (also a key life skill for their future). We seek to encourage students to not just ‘cope’ and ‘manage’ their exam pressure, but to learn and apply strategies that will help them enhance their personal resilience. Some students worry or are fearful that they might ‘fail’ or do poorly in their trial exam or practice paper. If a student is confused by a question, or hasn’t prepared as best they could, or is struggling with a particular topic or subject — isn’t it better to have this ‘shock’ beforehand, to then better prepare for the final exam itself? This experience can be a ‘call to action’!

Prepare not just for several individual exams, but an exam period

One tip suggested to all students at the recent exam navigator assembly is to prepare not just for individual subject exams, but to prepare and revise for a series of exams. Students need to prepare a revision strategy that when applied, can support them equally through all of their exams alongside each other (as their exam dates are spread across the three-week period); rather than study a bit for the first exam, then the second, then the third… and running out of ‘puff’ for their last exams as they tire.

Appreciation for our teachers

Our teachers are to be commended for their excellent efforts in leading students in the classroom; providing advice and encouragement to students throughout the year; with their planning and delivery of classes and coursework; and, for their preparation and feedback with trial exam and practice papers.

In the next newsletter, there will be an article detailing ‘Exam support suggestions for Barak parents’. If you have any questions, please contact any of the Barak Campus team during school hours.

Join us at the premier event of the year for the MLMC community where we celebrate where our Mercy Honour Roll inductees. This year, we will honour the following Old Collegians:

• Anna Baird (OC1995), (Bared Footwear) for her outstanding success in retail fashion
• Helen Dornom (OC 1970), (Dairy Australia) for her outsanding success in agricultural science
• Steven Wallace (OC1988), (Royal Flying Doctor Service) for his outstanding success in aviation.

The perfect excuse to get dressed up and have a night out, the Gala will be held at the stylish Chirnside Park Country Club. The event is the Old Collegians’ annual fundraiser and money raised on this night will go towards the Old Collegians' scholarship fund that supports students in need.

Date: Saturday 7 October 2023
Time: 6.30pm-10.30pm
Venue: Chirnside Park Country Club.

Tickets are $90 each, which includes a three-course meal and a drink on arrival. You can purchase tickets by clicking HERE.

Please direct any queries by calling me on 9739 2220 or email me at oc@mlmc.vic.edu.au

We hope you can join us on this special occasion!

On Thursday 31 August, MLMC hosted its inaugural Yarning Conference to celebrate the rich history, culture and language of the Wurundjeri, traditional custodians of the land on which we learn and teach.

Our 100 invited primary school participants on the day were from Lilydale Primary School, St Patrick’s Primary School (Lilydale) and St Peter Julian Eymard (Mooroolbark).

‘Yarning Circles’ in First Nations cultures are defined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as “a conversational process that involves the telling of stories as a way of passing on cultural knowledge” which “provide a safe place for all to speak without judgement” (Source: https://www.newcastle.edu.au)

Our Yarning Conference was facilitated by a number of our First Nations students with their student allies, guided and generously supported by the staff from the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA). MLMC staff members Mr Michael Dale, Mrs Tina Tasiopolous (author of Bunjil: The Eagle) and Mr David Banfield (marngrook in indigenous culture) provided excellent sessions for our visiting students.

One outstanding aspect of many on the day was the highly-visible and authentic leadership shown by MLMC students. Year 10 students Olivia T (Wurundjeri-Woiwurrung language) and Amelia I (reconciliation banner) led their sessions and did a brilliant job. They were strongly supported by student leaders from Year 10 — Coco O; Year 9 —Olivia H, Kai T, Brylee A, Tara H, Darcy V; and Year 8 — Jesse D, and Ruby S. These leaders ensured that our young visitors and their adult supervisors were extended the hospitality and logistical support such an occasion demands.

Below some of our students reflect on the experience:

The Yarning Conference was a day where we as young MLMC leaders could share experiences and stories as well as learn something new. I was with VACCA and we did an art project. Art is a big part of First Nations culture as we use it to tell stories that pass through generations. Each primary school student got a few cardboard leaves that they got to share their story on through art. They used Aboriginal symbols and were given free range on what they wanted to create. We then pinned them to a banner which was already decorated with a painting of a manna gum tree; the banners were given to the schools to keep. Some of the VACCA staff brought in their own possum skin which was an amazing learning opportunity for us all to learn the cultural significance it has in indigenous communities. Overall this was an amazing experience and I am so grateful to have been a part of such a wonderful day.
— Amelia I (Year 10 Red)

The Yarning Conference was a day to remember. I, alongside the primary school students, got to learn more about the indigenous Australian communities. It was a great day with many engaging activities to participate in. A personal favourite was the marngrook activity. Mr Banfield taught us the history behind the game of AFL and marngrook. We then had a yarn about it, as well as getting to practice our kicking skills. I thought the day was very beneficial and hope to see the Yarning Conference happen again in future years.
— Tara H (Year 9 Blue)

Our inaugural Yarning Conference was inspired by The Long Walk Foundation, with whom our College has an emerging and authentic partnership. Similar events have been hosted in Melbourne’s north-western suburbs by the Hume and Darebin councils.

Already, the organising committee has been contacted by other local Government and Catholic primary schools that wish to be involved in 2024 — true progress toward authentic reconciliation is made by such collaborations and opportunities to yarn.

Each year close to Mercy Day, a small group of students, staff, Old Collegians and Sisters of Mercy gather at the Lilydale Cemetery to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of the Sisters who have gone before us and to remember all those Sisters who are part of that story. We gather to pray, to honour, to remember and to give thanks.

After a short liturgy, flowers are placed on the graves of the Sisters. We also acknowledge the Sisters of Reparation whose order was founded by Mary Gertrude Langridge (Sister M Paul Langridge) at Oliver, Murray Road, Croydon in 1949.

Below are some reflections from students who attended:

I loved the moment when we placed flowers on each grave, as we were able to show our respect to the Sisters of Mercy who have passed. It is because of their faith and actions that we are here today. It was also wonderful to meet some of the Mercy Sisters today and witness their kindness.
— Lincoln B (Year 8 White)

It was a beautiful liturgy of thanksgiving and remembrance for our past Sisters of Mercy. I was able to learn about the history of our Sisters of Mercy, and this has inspired me to follow in their footsteps and help in our local community. I am very grateful to be a part of this special occasion.
— Mesha V (Year 10 Purple)

We are a month away from our 2023 Art, Design and Technology Exhibition!

Preparations continue behind the scenes as our showcase approaches. This is a retrospective celebration of innovation and creativity that we are proud to present on behalf of our talented students. While in previous years' exhibitions have focused on Visual Arts, this year’s event is expanding to include work from students in the Technology faculty as well.

The exhibition will include Visual Arts (painting, printmaking, sculpture, darkroom photography, architecture) as well as Visual Communication and Design, Media, Product Design, Systems Engineering and Textiles. We would love to see you there.

The exhibition will be open to parents on Thursday 12 October at 6.00pm in Centennial Hall. It will be open to students and staff from Monday 9 October to Friday 13 October.

The two Year 10 Outdoor Education classes headed for the hills last week to develop the skills they had gained from their indoor rock climbing excursion earlier in the term. After studying a navigation unit and then investigating a range of styles and techniques of rock climbing in the classroom, these two excursions provided a terrific opportunity for students to showcase their climbing skills and knowledge. 

We were fortunate to spend some time doing a rock scramble around Sugarloaf Saddle in the Cathedral Ranges that challenged students, who had to squeeze through Wells Cave and scale boulders to eventually reach Sugarloaf Summit at over 1000m elevation.

Below Brooke T from Year 10 White writes about the experience:

The excursion was so much more than I thought it would be with a combination of rock climbing, abseiling and a fun yet challenging rock scramble circuit to the peaks of Victoria. I think one of my strengths in rock climbing is my speed. Once I mentally map out the route I’m going to take I’m able to climb pretty quickly, which is something I didn’t think would be a strength. 

The indoor rock climbing session helped give me a sense of confidence in climbing and made me more comfortable when attempting outdoor rock climbing at Cathedral Ranges. It was also helpful in practicing rock climbing techniques such as the three points of contact and understanding how to use equipment such as harnesses, carabiners and ropes.

The rock scramble was a favourite part of the excursion, having the freedom to explore and challenge myself. I built on checking equipment before climbing including harnesses, carabiners and the knots tied on the ropes as well as the belayer themselves.

I found outdoor rock climbing more challenging because it was naturally geological. As for climbing outdoors you also have to be mindful of other factors like weather, temperature, time of day. Climbing indoors was more controlled, there's fixtures, lighting, heating and cooling and no wind so the environment is easier to climb in.

I thought it was really enjoyable and was absolutely worth the view from the peak. It was probably my favourite part of the entire day and involved so much more than I initially planned for. But I think being so hands-on and requiring so much teamwork is what made it so fun. I think I liked being challenged, especially with the heights and the claustrophobic feeling of being in the caves, because it made it so much more real and exciting.

Our enthusiastic Year 7 students have been busy conducting some scientific field work at two locations.

The testing at Olinda Creek is part of the Melbourne Water River Detectives program, which has had our students collect and contribute citizenship data about our local waterways since 2017.

This year we are excited to have added the monitoring of a second waterway site — the Nelson Drain at the MLMC Quarry Rd outdoor classroom. This area is of specific scientific interest to us as we hope to see large changes to the ecosystem health as the result of land rehabilitation works done by MLMC students.

At both sites students assessed the health of the habitat through observations of the vegetation, water and human impacts on the area. They also engaged in water tests to learn how to establish the current measures and analyse whether they sit within a healthy range.

(1) EISM Year 9 Grand Finals

Congratulations to the four Year 9 teams which won EISM premierships on Thursday 7 October. MLMC won Grand Finals in boys’ and girls’ volleyball as well as girls’ indoor soccer. MLMC had six teams competing in Grand Finals last week. Well done everyone involved!

Year 9 Grand Finals (7 October)

(2) Senior boys’ football

The Senior boys’ Herald Sun Shield football competition brings together schools from diverse backgrounds and locations, creating an atmosphere ripe for intense competition and rivalries. These senior athletes, often in the prime of their sporting careers, leave no stone unturned in their quest for glory. Congratulations to the MLMC Senior boys’ team on such a competitive day.

(3) EISM Cross Country

The EISM Cross Country Championships have again highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of young athletes at MLMC. The event, held on Wednesday 6 September at Doncaster, celebrated the enduring spirit of cross country running, where athletes push their physical and mental boundaries to achieve greatness. As the sun set on this year's championships, it was clear that the legacy of determination, camaraderie, and sportsmanship would continue to thrive in the world of MLMC cross country.

Congratulations to the following students who placed in top 10 in their divisions and to the three students who had podium finishes:

(4) Student Achievements

Football
Congratulations to Jess V (Year 12 Blue) who has been invited to the 2023 AFLW Draft Combine. This will showcase the country’s most talented draft-age girls and it will again be held across multiple locations across Australia throughout September and October. Physical testing to be conducted will include the vertical jump, running vertical jump, 20 metre sprint, agility test and 2km time trial. All players invited to attend the Draft Combine are eligible to be selected in the 2023 AFLW Draft which will be held following the 2023 NAB AFLW season. Good luck, Jess.

If you have any student achievements, please email them to me at rparsons@mlmc.vic.edu.au

Two of the six Houses at the College — O’Neill and Frayne — have in the past month celebrated their respective histories and boosted House spirit by holding special celebration lunches. The two House Prefects did a terrific job of sharing information about who each House is named after and they tried to encourage participation in upcoming events to earn more points towards the House Cup.

Olivia Gardeniers (Frayne House Prefect):

On Friday 1 September we celebrated Frayne House and our history. Ursula Frayne was such an amazing woman who showed outstanding leadership and care for the community, so it was amazing to share some information about her with my peers. We had a good turnout and everyone was interested in learning about who our House was named after. We also had a sausage sizzle after, which Ms Tabacchiera and Mrs Dohrmann helped out with. Overall the day was lots of fun and very interesting, and I loved being able to have a chat with the students in my House and share the story of Ursula Frayne.

Ava Garthwaite (O'Neill House Prefect):

The O’Neill celebration day on Friday 18 August had great numbers and so many legends there! I spoke about O'Neill House and the history behind it. The House is named in honour of Mother Patricia O’Neill, Principal of the Mercy Training College and Superior General of the Melbourne Congregation. I'm glad that I saw so many faces down there at the Lecture Theatre and people had an overall great time.

In 2017, staff member Mr Terry Hill organised for three flagpoles to be on display at our school. Each day, students from Year 7 raise and lower the three flags. 3 September is National Flag Day.

At a recent assembly, the Year 7s listened to a presentation on the flags that are flown at the school each day. Year 8 students Olivia M and Ruby L (pictured below) read out some information on the symbolism behind the flags that are flown.

Well done Olivia and Ruby.

In the latest in our series of articles focusing on different industries and pathways, we look at engineering.

The engineering industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the modern world, encompassing a vast array of disciplines such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Hargo Engineering is a local family-owned and operated business providing world-class, high precision and repetition component manufacturing services to the aerospace, defence, automotive, medical and commercial industries across Australia and around the world.

Damon H (pictured), a Year 12 VCE Vocational Major student at MLMC, has been working at Hargo Engineering as part of his Structured Work Placement on Fridays this year. Damon completes his core subjects at school Monday, Tuesday and Thursday within the Vocational Major pathway.

On Wednesdays, he is working towards achieving his Vocational Education and Training (VET) Certificate II in Engineering on site at MLMC. When Damon works at Hargo, he is gaining on-the-job work experience in the industry. Damon has fitted into the team at Hargo and hopes to continue working their next year, starting his apprenticeship. “The great team and working environment at Hargo makes this a place where I can see myself working in the future,” Damon said. Well done, Damon.

The Year 9 Creative Writing class worked with a mentor text for their first assessment task this term, borrowing writing techniques from a professional author.

They learnt about creating vignettes, conveying emotion without actually describing it, 'show, don't tell' and basing a story firmly in a particular time and place.

Chanel L (Year 9 Bronze) achieved these with particular flair, with a sports-themed story that will engage even non-sports fans. 

Read her thoughtful and passionate recount of attending her first live AFL game HERE.

The Performing Arts Showcase held on Tuesday 12 September was a true celebration of the effort, hard work, talent and camaraderie among the Music and Drama students.

Our biggest thanks and congratulations go to the students who performed on the evening.

Friends and family were audience to a stunning display of our Performing Arts students in their 'happy place' on stage, and the results of many hours of individual and ensemble practise and rehearsals. The program included a range of music from TV, film and musical theatre across a variety of styles including baroque to The Beatles, a dose of rock anthems through the decades, songs and tunes written by Herbie Han, Dolly Parton, Sondheim, Leonard Cohen and more. Not forgetting, a selection of the students' original work was performed as well.

Our wonderful hosts on the evening, Performing Arts Prefect Vivienne Mackenzie and Music Prefect Primrose Dillon noted in their addresses to our audience the friendships, connections, sense of community and support from their families over their time at MLMC were all important factors in their individual music and performance achievements.

Thank you to the Instrumental Music staff directing ensembles on the night — Ms Caroline Dickason (College choir), Ms Alison Little-Hales (string ensemble) and Mr Dean Cooper (drumline), while I directed the show band. 

Thank you also to Mr Tom Bruckner for his technical expertise during sound check and the performances, Instrumental Music secretary Mrs Sharon Flint for her enthusiastic support with planning and administration and assistance on the evening, and Deputy Principal — Learning and Teaching Mrs Anita Kay-Taylor for her presence, assistance with equipment and relentless support of all things Performing Arts at MLMC.

We are thrilled to share the remarkable efforts of our Year 10 students as they embarked on a transformative Geography fieldwork experience at Quarry Rd oval recently. Building on their in-class learning about the profound impact of human activities on natural environments, the students have taken tangible steps towards restoration and conservation.

Understanding the impact: in their classrooms, our students have delved into the intricate relationship between human actions and the environment. Their studies have honed in on soil erosion as a significant consequence of these actions, leading to detrimental effects on various areas around MLMC, including Quarry Rd.

Fieldwork in action: armed with knowledge and determination, our Year 10 students took the initiative to address these concerns head-on. They actively participated in a hands-on fieldwork session at Quarry Rd, focusing on remediating soil erosion around the creek that winds through the area.

Stabilising the environment: with a strong sense of responsibility, students engaged in the vital task of planting grass and shrubs along the creek's banks. These resilient plants play a crucial role in stabilising the soil, preventing further erosion, and promoting the revitalisation of the natural habitat.

A lesson beyond the classroom: this fieldwork experience goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. It embodies the MLMC spirit of experiential learning, empowering students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. It teaches them the value of taking ownership of their environment and acting as responsible custodians of our planet.

This excursion offers a glimpse into the inspiring efforts of our students making a difference. Their dedication has translated into a tangible impact on the environment. Through their commitment, they are actively contributing to the restoration of the Quarry Rd area and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

A special mention must go to Sustainability Leader, Mr Andrew Feher, for giving up his time to outline the significance of the outdoor classroom and its history in terms of environmental sustainability. Also a big thank you to staff member, Mr Derek Elliot, for bussing the students to and from Quarry Rd.

Our senior Agriculture and Horticulture students have this term been busy propagating some native grasses for the landscape around our College grounds. They have learned the specific cultivating technique and growing needs of the plants and worked as a team to begin preparing the plants.

Biodiversity is a key feature of a healthy, balanced environment as it provides a habitat for a range of flora and fauna to live in. As part of our sustainability goals at MLMC, we continue to work with our students to increase the variety of native vegetation on our College grounds to promote biodiversity and increased species habitat.

Environment Prefect Sophie Morris writes below about the task:

The hands-on experience has been a great opportunity to take a break from traditional study and has allowed the class to consolidate the content we have learned in a practical way. It has been a nice break from the VCE classroom, equipping students with useful skills in the industry and will contribute to an increased biodiversity around the school.