Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,

This past week has been a very special week in the life of our College as it started with a whole College assembly which combined the induction of our future leaders, the Prefects for 2024 (whose names I have previously published) as well as farewelling our graduating Class of 2023. While I understand the cycle of change and how each ending is a new beginning, I could focus here on the promise and strength of the future leadership of our College, which is true, but I think it more important to focus on the group of students who this week departed our College.

Within the hushed corridors of the Mercy Learning Centre, where the scent of white board markers and empty lockers mingles with the nervous anticipation of impending exams, there exists a bittersweet melody that resonates through the hearts of teachers and students alike. It is the symphony of farewells that is a poignant reminder that another chapter is coming to a close. As the final bell tolls for the Year 12 students, the echoes of their laughter, camaraderie, and shared dreams linger in the air, creating an atmosphere tinged with nostalgia and hope.

There is something profoundly sacred about bidding farewell to a group of young people who have spent the last six years cocooned within the walls of our College, soaking in knowledge, forging friendships, and discovering themselves. With their departure, one cannot help but be swept away by a wave of emotions, akin to saying goodbye to one’s oldest child as they leave the family home.

In the quiet moments that follow the end of classes, I find myself reflecting on the unique tapestry of personalities that make up the graduating class. Each student, a thread in this intricate fabric, has contributed to the vibrant mosaic of our College community. They are now, and will always be, members of the MLMC community.

There is a sense of nostalgia that accompanies these memories. A farewell, in its essence, is a tribute to the countless hours of hard work, the triumphs, the challenges overcome, and the growth that has occurred within our graduating class, and it is a tribute to all those who have supported their growth and their growing independence. It is a tribute to their parents and loved ones who supported them and to their dedicated teachers who have spent countless hours in preparing them.

Yet, amid all this, there is an undercurrent of prayerful hope. Hope for the future that awaits these bright minds as they step out into the world beyond our familiar College gates here on Rourke’s Hill. As they embark on the exhilarating yet daunting journey of exams, future study, university, TAFE and apprenticeships, I am purposefully praying for them, that they carry with them the knowledge, the wisdom, and the resilience to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

As I think ahead to the impending exam period, I understand that with each final exam paper they write they are not merely answering questions, demonstrating learnt materials and content, but rather affirming their readiness to embrace their future with open hearts and well-formed minds.I understand that they have benefitted from a Mercy education and they have been readied for their futures, and I believe they will impact the world with a sense of hope and love knowing that the world will be a better place by their interaction with it.

But still, like any parent, I worry. This week I wrote to all members of the graduating Class of 2023 informing them that they are in my thoughts and prayers and over the coming months. I have committed to continue to pray for them and I ask your support in that you, too, include them in your prayers. This is an important time in the lives of our young graduates and they are indeed worthy and will benefit from our prayers.

I know they will make us all proud.

(2) Community Forum Group

The next meeting of the Community Forum Group is scheduled for Thursday 16 November at 7.30pm. The agenda has not yet been set, however we are calling for agenda items. If you want an item added to the agenda or if you wish to attend the meeting, please send an email to Mrs Marilyn Ryan, my Executive Assistant, at principal@mlmc.vic.edu.au.

In the Spirit of Catherine,
May they all be blessed.

God bless

Philip A Morison

This week we celebrated and farewelled our Year 12 students as they finish their secondary education. The Year 12 Celebration Day formally started with Mass — celebrated by our College Chaplain Father Dean Bradury. Mass concluded with a rousing rendition of the hymn Setting Hearts on Fire by Michael Mangan. The song has always been a crowd favourite for this year level. I think a prayerful reflection on Verse 2 would be a great prayer and sense of commission for the Year 12s as they embark on a new chapter in their lives and for all of us.

We long to live in freedom, we yearn for unity.
We dream of justice, joy and peace.
Spirit, fill us with your power.
Jesus, help us live your call.
O Creator, give us wisdom,
So we will be Good News for all.

— Setting Hearts on Fire, by Michael Mangan.

Year 12s, we pray God’s richest blessing on you. We ask that he would open up incredible doors of opportunity for you in the years ahead. We pray that the call and challenge of the Gospel will stay with you all your days.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and Holy Spirit.

Amen!

Dates

• Tuesday 24 October — Year 7 2024 Information Night
• Tuesday 24 October-Wednesday 15 November — VCE exams
• Monday 6 November — Mid-term Break (student free)
• Tuesday 7 November — Melbourne Cup Day public holiday
• Wednesday 8 November — all students expected to be in full summer uniform
• 10-17 November — Year 10 and Year 11 exams
• Saturday 11 November — Remembrance Day
• Sunday 12 November — Old Collegians’ Association Memorial Mass
• Wednesday 15 November — Year 9 Horizons Showcase and The Rite Journey ‘Homecoming’
• Wednesday 15 November-Friday 17 November — Year 9 exams
• Friday 17 November — Year 12 Graduation
• Monday 20 November — Staff Professional Practice (student free)
• Wednesday 22 November — Year 7 2024 Flying Solo (4.00pm)
• 21-30 November — 2024 Academic Foundation Program (for 2024 Year 8-12 students)

Uniform Shop

The Bob Stewart Uniform Shop in Croydon is now taking appointments as families prepare for the 2024 academic year. Please see the flyer below for details. Parents and students are also welcome to attend the store without an appointment.

Please note that there is a new sports jacket which will be available for sale from December. There will be a three-year transition period for our current sports jacket.

From the Counselling and Wellbeing team

This article and webinar is recommended for parents: https://schools.happyfamilies.com.au/enough-2/

2024 Instrumental Music lessons

Mrs Sharon Flint
Music department Secretary

The 2024 Instrumental Music program is now open for enrolments. This year’s program was at capacity, with some students having to go on a waiting list, so parents and guardians are encouraged not to delay and enrol today. Further information and the 2024 enrolment form are available below. Please follow the enrolment instructions to secure a place for your child.

The completed enrolment form must be returned to the College Office or to the Music department. Please direct all queries to me by phoning 9739 2217 or email me via sflint@mlmc.vic.edu.au.

Confirmation of enrolment will be sent to parents via email once enrolment forms are received. The Music department will contact the student and parents/guardians via email informing them of their first lesson day, time and venue.

Instrumental Music scholarships

Mrs Sharon Flint
Music department Secretary

MLMC is now officially open to take all 2024 Instrumental Music Scholarship audition applications. The Music department encourages any student in Years 7 to Year 11 interested in learning an instrument and currently enrolled at MLMC to apply for a 2024 Instrumental Music Scholarship. Students do not need have to been enrolled into the 2023 Instrumental Music program to apply.

Parents/guardians must email me at sflint@mlmc.vic.edu.au to receive a shared Google form to apply. This application form must be filled in online along with attaching two (2) contrast music pieces. Once the application form is complete, it should be uploaded and sent to me by 4.00pm Wednesday 22 November 2023. No face-to-face auditions will be held. All applicants will be informed by mid-December 2023 whether they are successful or not in receiving a 2024 Instrumental Music Scholarship. The Music department wishes our students all the best of luck with their auditions.

On Monday 16 October, the College held its annual Investiture Assembly to thank the Year 12 student leadership body for their work and to welcome the newest senior leadership team.

The incoming Captains, Kate and Joshua, introduced themselves, touching briefly on their hopes for the College and their commitment to serving our community while the outgoing Captains, Campbell and Elena, spoke about their time in leadership and the lessons they had learned.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the new leadership badges. The outgoing Captains and Prefects presented the incoming leaders with a candle, symbolising the passing of the torch and the continuation of their work. The symbolism of the outgoing Captains and Prefects presenting the incoming leaders with a candle is very powerful. It is a reminder that leadership is a continuum and that the work of one generation of leaders builds on the work of those who came before them.

The Investiture Assembly is an important tradition at the College. It is a time to recognise the outstanding contributions of our student leaders and to welcome the new leadership team.

The College is grateful for the service of all of our student leaders, both past and present. We wish the new leadership team all the best for a successful year.

On Tuesday 17 October, the graduating Class of 2023 celebrated their last day of school at MLMC. After a very wet Monday, God smiled on us with clear skies and sunshine.

Beginning the day with a traditional pancake breakfast cooked by their teachers, we then celebrated our last Mass together, joined by staff and parents. This was followed by a formal awards ceremony, where students were acknowledged for their service to the school with College Gold and other affirmations.

With the formal part of the day completed, uniforms were swapped for a colourful array of costumes and a barbecue lunch, giving students the chance to celebrate and reminisce about the end of their MLMC journey with all of their teachers.

A final farewell, a few happy tears and lots of laughter completed the day.

We wish the students undertaking exams the best of luck and look forward to celebrating with them at Graduation on 17 November 2023.

The College’s Student Representative Council (SRC) is to be congratulated on their successful World's Greatest Shave activity, which raised over $400 for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Last week, on Friday 13 October, the SRC held a lunchtime event where students were able to have their hair coloured for a small donation, and a brave few even had their hair cut. The event was a huge success, with many students participating.

All of the money raised will go to the Leukaemia Foundation, which is a not-for-profit organisation that assists those with blood cancer.

The SRC would like to thank everyone who supported their World's Greatest Shave activity. Your donations will make a real difference in the lives of people with leukaemia and other blood cancers.

Special mention to the Year 11 students

The SRC would like to give a special mention to the Year 11 students, who raised close to $200 for the World's Greatest Shave activity. This is a fantastic achievement, and the SRC is very grateful for their support. The Year 11 students are a great example of how students can come together to make a difference in their community. The College is proud to have such caring and compassionate students in our College community.

Central 2023 — what an experience! Where 42 Year 10 students and five staff made it from Lilydale to Uluru and all the way to Darwin and back in one piece over ten days during the September school holidays. It was hot and we saw a lot, and it was a fantastic adventure that I will never forget.

A special thank you to the staff who gave up their time to ensure this adventure was as magical as it was — Miss Sarah Battersby, Mr Liam Charles, Mr Michael Dunstan and Miss Victoria Minichilli. Your efforts were amazing and the students and I couldn’t have wished for a better team.

A big thank you to Hollands Adventure Tours. Your experience, knowledge, support and amazing food helped everyone make the most of their time away. Brian and Di, you are legends!

Lastly, to all the parents and guardians, friends and families who helped our 42 adventurers experience the Northern Territory, I thank you for making this journey possible. I hope you have all been thanked profusely by your adventurers upon their return. Without you and your many sacrifices, they wouldn’t have been able to take advantage of this amazing opportunity.

Below are some student reflections of the 2023 Central Australia experience:

Central was absolutely amazing. There aren’t enough words to describe how great it was. We were filled with so many experiences. But the main part that I loved about it was the friendships I made along the way. We would sing karaoke on the bus and when we got to camp we would go for a swim or play card games. It brought everyone together and it got very competitive. I would definitely recommend this trip to everyone. It was both a great experience and a fun time.
— Monique R (Year 10 Red)

Central was an amazing experience that created many friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. Our days away were very busy, from exploring the outback's wonders and sights such as Uluru and Kings Canyon, to refreshing afternoon swims in swimming pools and waterholes, wonderful meals all eating together, and although they were long, enjoyable bus trips. The group had many laughs and shared plenty of banter that created an amazing environment while away. The trip was an extraordinary experience that I thoroughly enjoyed thanks to our bus driver, Brian, cook, Di, and the staff of MLMC. I would highly recommend this trip if the opportunity is given.
— Lachie P (Year 10 Aqua)

The Central trip was an unforgettable experience where we had the opportunity to explore Australia and make life-long friends. Each day was filled with activities that allowed us to bond with each other while visiting breath-taking sites such as Uluru and natural waterholes. Each bus ride was long but the staff and students made it go by fast as we played different games and sang a lot of karaoke. A highlight was definitely Kings Canyon as we got to see a beautiful natural landscape in outback Australia. Although it was a very long walk, it was all worth it. This trip was amazing and I would undoubtedly recommend it to everyone.
— Sophie M (Year 10 Jade)

This was possibly one of the best camps I have been on. A lifetime of memories and life-long connections were made. It was an incredible experience. Our days in the outback were jam-packed with activities that were enjoyed by all. Despite the lengthy bus rides, I had a great time. Words cannot express how wonderful it was. We had a plethora of adventures. The group had a great time while away, lots of laughing and jokes were made to pass the time. This camp is one I would highly recommend.
— Katherine H (Year 10 Gold)

Over the recent school holidays, the annual Central Australia trip for students took place once again. At MLMC, the Central Australia trip has always been a highlight for many students. Each year there are many eager students wanting to travel through the Northern Territory, as a look through the MLMC archives shows.

The first MLMC Central Australia trip took place in 1968. Sister Eileen Casey was the organiser and later on she wrote: “Little did I realise we were establishing a tradition”. It is a wonderful tradition where we have seen the trip continue each year, except for 2020 and 2021 when interstate travel was not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sister Eileen Casey, along with Sister Gabrielle Jennings, took 48 students and two other teachers. They traveled by bus and camped along the way, except for two nights spent in a motel. And the Sisters wore their traditional habits. As Sister Eileen recalled, “officially we wore the habit, in fact we climbed Ayers Rock in our habit and became a spectacle!”

It was in 1993 that the Central Australia trip changed many lives forever. The annual Year 11 Central Australian bus trip ended in a horrible catastrophe that would sadly have a long-lasting effect on those involved as well as the entire College and the local community. On 18 September 1993, the group of 40 students as well as staff were on their way to Coober Pedy when the coach they were in lost control on a bend and rolled over.

Tragically, the crash killed 16-year-old Elizabeth Calcagno (Class of 1994) and left quite a number of students with severe limb and back injuries. It took several hours before help arrived and for the students to be sent to various hospitals according to their injuries. The remaining staff and students went on to Coober Pedy, where the community did their best to look after them. This year is quite significant, as it is the 30th anniversary of the accident.

Each year, the MLMC tour group stops to hold a ceremony to remember Elizabeth and the staff and students who were involved in the 1993 accident.

As a College, we will be remembering and honouring those students and staff that were on that bus.

The College Archives team is putting together a documentary of the accident, encapsulating the stories of the time to preserve for the College’s history. We will also be commemorating the occasion at our Memorial Mass on Sunday 12 November at the College.

Our MLMC STEM students have again participated in the 2023 STEMMAD competition and showcase.

STEMMAD is a celebration of student learning designed to acknowledge and promote STEM learning initiatives that address real-world problems and demonstrate the particularity of Catholic schools; encouraging students to make a difference (MAD) in the world by acting for justice and the common good.

We had a number of projects entered, with two making it to the recent showcase (pictured) — the Year 7 ‘Buddy the delivery robot’ and the Year 10 ‘biodegradable bioplastics’.

Our students did a great job in presenting and explaining their projects to the judges and guests. Our bioplastics group became one of the finalists.

A huge congratulations to all our enthusiastic STEM students who were involved and thank you to our staff, Mr Hans Dharma, Mr John Parlas, Mrs Skye Jennings, for joining me.

The Mount Lilydale Mercy College community gathered to honour our 2023 Mercy Honour Roll inductees at a special event on Saturday 7 October.

The 2023 Gala Awards Dinner hosted by the MLMC Old Collegians’ Association was held off site for the first time, at the Chirnside Park Country Club.

This year’s inductees to the College’s Mercy Honour Roll are Anna Baird (OC 1995), Steven Wallace (OC 1988) and Helen Dornom (OC 1970). Each are prime examples of exceptional alumni who have achieved great success since graduating the College, serving as inspiring role models for our current and future students.

Guests enjoyed getting dressed up and enjoying the hospitality that the venue had to offer. The night consisted of delicious food, great company and inspirational interviews from the inductees.

Principal Mr Philip Morison and his wife Mrs Jennifer Morison were joined by various current staff members and the three inductees and their families and friends at the event, along with alumni and members of the Old Collegians’ Association committee. Thank you to OC President Ms Olivia Cox for being the master of ceremonies. Thank you also to committee member Mr Luke Stephens for interviewing each of our inductees, providing great insight into their Mercy ethos and their journeys since graduating from MLMC.

You can read more about each of our 2023 Mercy Honour Roll inductees below.

In the latest article on our series focusing on industries in which our VCE-Vocational Major students can explore in the future, we look at the automotive industry.

The automotive industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving sector that offers a plethora of opportunities for students looking to embark on a rewarding career path. This industry, which encompasses a wide range of fields such as engineering, design, manufacturing, marketing, and technology, provides students with numerous benefits. Firstly, it presents the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies and innovations, from electric vehicles to autonomous driving systems, allowing students to be at the forefront of technological advancements. Additionally, the automotive industry offers a global perspective, providing opportunities for international collaboration and the chance to work with diverse teams.

Students working in this industry gain valuable skills in problem solving, project management, and teamwork, all of which are highly transferable to other professions. Furthermore, the industry offers a stable and competitive job market, with a wide variety of roles and potential for career growth. Overall, students in the automotive sector have the chance to be part of an exciting and influential field that shapes the future of transportation while building a promising and fulfilling career.

Damian J (pictured), one of our VCE Vocational Major students, has been wanting to be a mechanic for as long as he can remember. He has recently completed his Certificate II in Automotive Preparations, which is designed as a pre-apprenticeship course. This year Damian has been working at Lilydale Service Group for his Structured Work Placement and has been gaining on-the-job experience, getting him job-ready for his full-time apprenticeship next year. Damian said he has “really enjoyed working in a busy workshop” and “I am excited for the next stage of my career”.

“A healing touch of God that cures all diseases;
a soothing smile of God that warms all hearts;
God’s own language of love that all hearts
understand.” — M.C. Constitutions

The Missionaries of Charity Sisters were founded by Mother Teresa of Calcutta in 1950 devoting themselves to the service of the poorest of the poor. The congregation has now spread around the world. 

Current Year 11 students have the opportunity to visit the Missionaries of Charity in Fitzroy on a Monday afternoon, to help serve meals and be a ‘friend’ to some of the most marginalised in our community.

Below are reflections from a recent visit by some of the 2024 student leaders:

Going to the Missionaries of Charity was amazing. I learnt so much about the volunteers' life stories and some of the people who came to have some food. It really puts things into perspective on how good we have it and how grateful we should be to have access to simple things such as food. Everyone should experience this.
— Kate W (Year 11 Red)

I would encourage anyone who has the chance to do take the opportunity to visit the Missionaries of Charity to do it, to understand in real time what happens with the Sisters, the volunteers and the group of lovely people who enjoy the food. Getting to learn about how the operation works and some background on the all of the community involved was truly eye-opening.
— Joshua O (Year 11 Blue)

My visit to the Missionaries of Charity was incredible. I heard touching life stories from volunteers and met people in need of food. It made me realise how fortunate we are to have access to basic necessities like food and how important it is to be grateful. I believe everyone should have an experience like this. Volunteering with the Missionaries of Charity was eye-opening. I'd encourage anyone to seize the opportunity to witness first-hand the impactful work of the Sisters, volunteers, and the grateful community they serve. Learning about the operations and the caring people involved was truly enlightening.
— Joshua B (Year 11 Blue)

This opportunity was absolutely amazing. Volunteering at the Missionaries of Charity was quite an experience and one that I am very grateful for. We arrived and immediately were welcomed by the Sisters, the other volunteers and the delicious smell of a warm, cooked meal. Serving the less fortunate, I had a great time getting to know the visitors, Sisters and volunteers. Everyone was so friendly and down to earth. I wholeheartedly urge everyone to come forward and be a part of this blessed organisation and community, take this fortunate opportunity.
— Amy W (Year 11 Silver)

(1) Sports Awards

A huge thank you to all parents, students and staff who attended the MLMC Sports Awards night at the College on Wednesday 18 October. It was a fantastic night recognising our students within the MLMC Sports program.

Thank you to our special guests of honour, Principal Mr Philip Morrison and Mr Sean Bell.

Sean, a motivational speaker and ultra marathon runner, added a touch of greatness to the evening, inspiring students to pursue their athletic dreams with passion and dedication. Sean plans to run 14,000km around Australia next year to raise $1.4 million for the Make A Wish Foundation.

The event provided a platform to acknowledge and reward the incredible athletes, coaches, and supporters who had contributed to the success of MLMC's Sports program, with a number of awards presented, including Best and Fairest, Coaches’ Awards and Year Level Champions in athletics, cross country running and swimming.

The nominees and winners alike were met with roaring applause, reflecting the sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines MLMC's sporting community.

Our EISM sports program has consistently demonstrated excellence in fostering young talent and nurturing the spirit of sportsmanship. The coaches and teachers who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to build this exemplary program were given due recognition. The program's success can be attributed to the school's commitment to holistic athlete development. It provides opportunities for students of all skill levels to participate in a wide range of sports, emphasising not only competition but also personal growth, teamwork, and physical fitness.

MLMC's sports program stands as a testament to the positive impact that school sporting competition can have on students' lives.

Some photos from the night are above and in the gallery below.

A full list of all award recipients is in the document below.

(2) 3X3 MLMC basketball tournament

A reminder to all families that Mrs Frazer has organised a 3x3 basketball tournament to be held on Mondays and Fridays at lunchtime and that students taking part are not required to wear their PE uniform. If your child hasn’t done so already, there is time to get a team together and submit it to Mrs Frazer. Good luck!

(3) Melbourne Marathon

Congratulations to the following students who ran in the Melbourne Marathon on Sunday 15 October:

• Lachlan Swain — 21km in 1:45:38
• Anika Lilll — 21km in 2:38:44
• Lucas Hays — 10km in 57:38
• Brigitte Rice — 5km in 19:57 (finishing third of 97 entrants in the 14-17 age group).

If you have any Student Achievements, please email them to rparsons@mlmc.vic.edu.au

(4) EISM results

Year 9 —Round 2 vs Aquinas

Recently female students ranging from Year 8 to Year 11 participated in an incursion program at the College called ‘Empowered Women in Trades and Technical Careers’. This program, facilitated by OELLEN, was presented by a range of employers and tradespeople, and discussed the options available in trade and technical areas in which women are historically not well represented. Hearing the career pathways of the different speakers encouraged the students to follow their passion with a powerful message of being prepared to “give it a go!”.

The students participated in activities involving electrical work, plumbing, metal work and problem solving as a team. The girls progressed from hesitant to enthusiastic, engaging with each other to use equipment and try different skills. The trainers were impressed at how quickly they became involved with the tasks.

Finally, students each received a showbag containing gifts generously donated by local businesses eager to encourage future tradespeople who are female. Well done to those students who requested to be part of the program.

With government and industry actively working to encourage greater female participation in these areas, the College will endeavor to provide further opportunities to investigate involvement for our students.

If you would like further information about opportunities in trades and technical careers, please feel free to contact the Careers centre via email to careers@mlmc.vic.edu.au

As part of the VET Sport and Recreation program at Year 10 level, students are given a budget and are required to plan an overnight camp. All aspects of planning is left to the students, from deciding on activities and a location, booking these sessions, arranging accommodation within the budget, identifying and mitigating risks, arranging catering, and ensuring all expenses fit within the allocated budget.

My class chose to make the journey to Torquay for surfing, calling in at the Melbourne Cable Park for a session on an inflatables course.

A second class went to Anglesea with Miss Parsons, while the third went to Phillip Island with Miss O’Hare.

TORQUAY

Surf Camp was an awesome experience and a highlight of the Sport and Rec program. I loved the morning walk along the beach at sunrise and a hot chocolate at the kiosk lookout. Miss Gentle and Mr Beard donated their time and sleep to get up and take a few of us for a very memorable walk. I really enjoyed both the cable park and the surf lessons as it was a great way to learn new skills and bond with my peers while doing something we enjoyed. It was great to organise our camp as a class and learn how to plan an event.
— Amae H (Year 10 Orange)

The Surf Camp was a 'Choose Your Own Adventure' Camp where we chose surfing, as it could be quite fun and we like to try new things. It was also quite good for our learning as we had to plan everything. Some of us booked the accommodation and others had to plan the budget, activities and transportation. We all had a great time and we won’t lose these memories for a long time.
— Cameron T (Year 10 Blue)

PHILLIP ISLAND

Miss Ann-Marie O’Hare

The final ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ Camp class travelled to Phillip Island. In the morning we were greeted with less than desirable weather conditions, with the rain pounding down. However, the students remained in high spirits and were happy to be going to camp. The rain did not let up, however after a quick stop at the shops for lunch and to buy snacks and food for breakfast the rain seemed to ease. As we made our way to Smiths Beach the rain finally stopped and we were able to have our surf lesson. The students were enthusiastic in their approach and some were very impressive, catching wave after wave, while others crashed more than they surfed.

After a great two-hour surf session, everyone was glad to be heading to the NRMA park to enjoy a stay in cabins. Students enjoyed a dinner of fish and chips together in the camp kitchen before having an early night. On day two, we had an early sea kayak lesson and the return of the rain. Although the conditions were not favourable, all students got ready, kitted out and into the sea.

Overall, we had a great camp where students represented the College and themselves with pride. Thanks to all students for planning a great camp.

On Tuesday 10 October, we celebrated World Mental Health Day at the College and the Year 11 VCE Vocational Major students got to experience a truly amazing session with Speak & Share.

Speak & Share is a not-for-profit mental health organisation which encourages tough conversations, and challenges the stigma associated with mental health.

It was really incredible to see how immediately engaged the students were and how open they were with each other. It is fair to say it was a real success and all of the students took away the message of the importance of speaking and sharing when they find they are struggling with their mental health or also when they are in a positive headspace.

Below are some reflections from the students:

The session with Speak & Share was such an amazing experience. Knowing the organisation already, from their cool merchandise and watching their messages over social media, and being a big fan built up a bit of extra excitement. The session was run so well and provided a safe space for me to open up and share my thoughts and emotions without judgment. The session created a supportive atmosphere that encouraged vulnerability. Hearing others' experiences and coping strategies was not only comforting but also incredibly insightful. The discussions around self-care, stress management, and the importance of seeking help when needed were invaluable. This session reminded me that I'm not alone in my struggles and that it's okay to ask for help.
— Kyan

Going into the session I didn't really know what we were getting into. I thought it was a very interesting and productive way to get us all involved into their program, and coming out of the session I actually felt really good about myself as I got to share a few things about myself that not many really know about me. I found that I really liked and got involved with everything they were saying and asking us to do. Overall I thought it was a really good workshop and I feel that everyone got something out of it.
— Josh

I really enjoyed the Speak & Share incursion. It was such a great experience. They are all such nice people and I hope they come back because it was such a good time. I learned more about my friends and I'm sure they learned a lot about me too. Thank you to the team for making the effort to come here.
— Amelia