Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,

The process of changing from one year to the next has well and truly begun at the College. This term we have seen:

• The induction of the 2020 Student Leadership Team
• The Year 12 final Mass, final assembly and day of celebration
• We have celebrated Visual and Creative Arts with the Year 7-11 Visual Arts Exhibition, along with the Performing Arts Showcase.

These are all signs of celebration of a year in the passing. But, there is much to be done before the 2019 year is finalised.

Last week, we celebrated the Year 11 final exams, celebratory Mass and Academic Awards ceremony. This week, the Academic Foundation Program began and the Year 12 Class of 2020 began their final year of study. Year 10 students have started their final exams and will soon prepare to make the transition to Year 11.

I must admit, though, that this is not what I am currently thinking about. My focus is squarely on the graduating Class of 2019 — as we prepare for their Graduation tomorrow night at the Melbourne Convention Centre.

In many ways this is a great night of celebration, such an important milestone in the lives of these young people as they move from being students of the College to becoming part of our Old Collegians network. In many ways I look forward to this celebration and in other ways I feel hesitant about it. Graduation is the final celebration whereby we farewell them as members of College — we farewell them from the safety of school and send them out into the world hoping that they have been readied and knowing that they have been prepared. Leaving home is a time full of emotion for both the young adult and the parent. We wish them well, each and every one of them, and we pray for their happiness and a life of meaning.

I often reflect on our students as they leave and I offer this reflection, which is an excerpt from an article I found and liked — although I have changed a few words:

Your path ahead is one of promise, principle, and character, and as you gather yourself for what I’m sure will be an amazing journey, please allow me to pass on a few thoughts — advice, as it were. As you read these reflections, I implore you to remember that these are things I have either learned directly, or I’m still learning. I might be 28 years your senior, Love, but I’m still figuring out how life works. We all are; anyone who tells you differently is selling something.

1. The world is unfair
In your travels, you will come in contact with many people. Some will do the right thing, others will only do what benefits them, and it might have an impact on you and your life. But, here’s the thing: You can’t make anyone do what is your version of good or right; you can only control how you act or react to what’s presented to you. Does it suck? Yes… and that’s unfortunately a part of life.

2. The decisions are always yours
We are always pressured by outside influences, and never has it become more apparent than this year. The nagging questions you’ve heard from everyone: “What are you going to do after high school? What will you study in College (university)?” Great questions, to be sure … but I would ask you to think of them as guiding questions. No matter what you choose or decide, you always have the option to change your mind. Just stay true to your heart and the rest will fall into place.

3. You are worthy of what you want
Your life will take you many places, and the people around you will offer many differing thoughts and opinions. No matter what they say, you are worthy of what you want from this life. You require no permission, no validation, and no allowance for what you want. If you think it and you want it, you can get it. Never allow anyone to tell you otherwise.

4. Do your best not to judge others
You will never truly know what is going on in someone else’s life. When you see or experience someone who is doing something differently than you, take pause before you offer your thoughts and opinions, or hand down judgment. In truth, we are all doing the very best we can based on where we have been and where we are going in this life. Sometimes others’ ‘best’ isn’t very good for us, but it’s all they have. If their path doesn’t align with yours, you don’t have to judge them for it. Recognise that people are different, and move on without deciding they were wrong. Them being ‘wrong’ is irrelevant; they were just wrong for you.

5. Always practice kindness
It takes so little to effect change, both for yourself and others. Take a moment to connect with people around you in little ways. A smile to a stranger while walking down the street or a comment of “Love your hair!” to a cashier at the local coffee shop can sometimes make all the difference in ways you might never know. Give all you can without the promise of reciprocation, for that is the key to long-term happiness with one’s self.

6. Stand up for yourself and your truth
Your convictions and beliefs matter. Never allow anyone — including me — to dictate your thoughts or the things in which you believe. If you believe something, always listen to opposing viewpoints (as you might learn things of which you weren’t aware), but you choose whether or not to change/sway your opinions and ideas. Bottom line: Speak your truth, and let go of the outcome, as you can’t control it.

7. Never underestimate the importance of trust and loyalty
Some of those you meet will be filled with honour and are worthy of your time. Others … well, they have different ideas. Trust and loyalty aren’t given freely. And they also aren’t ‘proven’, as asking for proof has a tendency to keep you doubting others and seeing people though a pessimistic lens. Trust and loyalty are demonstrated — through both action and word. It’s not just what they say, it’s what they do that counts.

8. You are AMAZING … exactly as you are
People change. Our bodies change. Our thoughts and outlook on life change. But none of that defines your amazingness. Fat, thin, old, young, dressed in sweats or the latest designer dress, at the worst job or making millions, single, married, or divorced … you are an amazing person filled with talents and gifts.

9. Choose to love wisely
It’s written that love takes work. It doesn’t; it just takes conscious effort. If you find yourself chasing love without reciprocation, or wondering why you are feeling like crap because of how they talk to you or treat you, then it’s time to take a serious look at why you are still with them. This goes for any type of relationship — friends, coworkers, or romantic interests.

10. Never stop chasing your dreams
Yes, life is short. The bottom line is that none of us are going to make it out of this alive. As such, there is no destination for life … it's just a journey. Most often at the end of that journey, we don’t feel remorse at the choices we made, but rather we are wistful at the choices we didn’t make. Unrequited dreams are the stuff of regret. Don’t live with regret hunting you down waiting to tell you, ‘I told you so’. Chase your dreams. Perhaps you achieve them; perhaps not. What matters most is that you stay true to your soul.

11. Failure isn't something to fear
Don't be afraid of failure, as failure is the universe’s most valuable teaching tool. Those who are afraid to fail are also afraid to succeed. It matters not that you succeed every time — and I’ll save you the suspense; you won’t. But, in order to find the light, you’ll need to risk the dark.

You can read the full article HERE.

God bless
Philip A Morison
Principal

Term 4 ends

The last day of Term 4 for students is Thursday 5 December 2019.

Italian Study Tour 2020 Information Night

An information night will be held next Tuesday (26 November) for any 2020 Year 10 or 11 students interested in going on the Italian Study Tour. First preference for the trip will be given to those studying Italian, but other students will be considered if places are available. The information session will be in the Lecture Theatre, starting at 7.30pm.

From the IT Office

Please be aware that there are email scams circulating around the internet. Some of these scams will be received via emails and can sound threatening. If any student(s) do receive such email(s), the best thing to do is not to panic. Please:

• take a screenshot of the email(s)
• forward the screenshot or email(s) to helpdesk@mlmc.vic.edu.au for the MLMC IT staff to look into
• delete the email(s).

For further information about other types of scams, you can visit the ACCC website at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/types-of-scams

2020 Instrumental Music Lessons

The Music Department is now taking Instrumental Music lesson enrolments for 2020. Enrolment forms for 2020 can be found on the Parent Portal under 'Forms and Information', alternatively you can send an email to the Instrumental Music Secretary, Mrs Sharon Flint, at sflint@mlmc.vic.edu.au, to request a form. To secure a place in your preferred instrument, please return your enrolment form to Student Reception OR to the Music department as soon as possible. Positions are filling up quickly. Instrumental Music lessons will commence in Week 2 of Term 1 in 2020.

God is our Refuge

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Psalm 46)

Prayer for all affected by the recent fires and floods

God of all comfort and compassion,
We pray for those who are being or have been devastated by floods, rain.and fire.
We know that while the rain has come as a blessing to some,
particularly those in our outback areas, it has caused devastation for others.

For those whose properties or lives have been threatened,
we pray for your protection and mercy.
Strengthen those who are isolated,
Who lay sleeplessly at night concerned for their own
and their neighbour’s safety.

Keep at bay the spread of disease
and show mercy and give strength
to our emergency services and volunteers.

Protect those who are trapped in flood waters, or fires
and those who have no home in which to find comfort.
May our response to the suffering of others be generous and bring you praise.

For we ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.

Adapted from a prayer by Rev. Garry Hardingham

The MLMC Performing Arts Showcase held on Wednesday 20 November was a great success. Drama, Dance and Music students from all year levels performed and the audience of family and friends were delighted. Our Music and Performing Arts Prefects Georgia McAleer (2019), Sam Lees (2019) and Talisha Nichols (2020) added a very comedic interlude between each performance as they MCed the evening.

All Music ensembles from the stage band, concert band, guitar ensemble, string ensemble, the choir and senior a capella ensembles, were all outstanding. The Music, Drama and Dance soloists were inspiring across the board. A Year 9 Theatre troupe wrote and produced their own melodrama, which was hilarious. The VCE Dance class performed two ensemble pieces, each with a really powerful message. The night finished with an original pop song by Georgia McAleer, from the Kool Skools program, which was so catchy that I think everyone walked away humming it! It was a great way to finish the year and celebrate all the great work by the Performing Arts students of 2019.

The Parlouf Relay was founded by former MLMC staff member Mr Terry Dunn over a decade ago as a fun, healthy and social activity for staff. It is a relay, involving teams of five runners, who together cover a total distance of 10km around an athletics track. The weather was perfect for this year’s event, held on Wednesday 20 November at the Croydon athletics track.

MLMC entered 10 teams, consisting of current staff and alumni, their children and grandchildren, who all represented the College admirably. But, it was our host, the Croydon Masters Athletics Club, who took out the trophy for 2019. Well done to all the MLMC runners. Thank you to everyone involved in making this event a success year after year.

MLMC students shone brightly at last weekend’s Lilydale Show (16-17 November) where our sheep won Champion Lamb and Reserve Champion All Breeds ribbons. More important than the win, is the fact that these sheep supported the education of our students and gave them the experience of taking part in an agricultural show. Across the weekend over 20 MLMC students (past and present) were involved, which included staying back both nights to clean and pack up the pavilion — no mean feat after a full day of showing and caring for animals.

Other highlights included:

• Perry Leane (Year 9 Gold) was appointed Biosecurity Officer at the showgrounds and elected to the show committee in recognition of his work ensuring that computer systems and stock control was updated to meet regulations
• Rosalie DeFrancesco (Year 12 Purple) won her classes in art and floral arrangements. After her success at least year’s show, Rosalie was inspired to start her own business and this month for the first time she did all the floral arrangements for a wedding. Her career is up and running
• Abbey Wheeler (Year 10 Jade) and Emily Corbett (Class of 2017) were both nominated as Young Rural Ambassadors for the Yarra Valley and will now go on to undertake leadership roles in rural issues at state level.

The experiences we provide our students outside of the classroom and in electives are critical to their engagement in the community and school in general. If you have ever wondered why we have sheep, goats, plants, chooks and wine at the school, we do it for the same reason we plan a good lesson. It makes a huge difference to the lives of our young people. It also binds our students to the place they live and binds us to the community and industries so prevalent in our region.

There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes both before and during the show. In particular, I would like to thank teachers Mrs Sally Wingett and Mrs Urszula Faulkner and maintenance staff Mr Mick Hill and Mr Andy Commerford for their wonderful support of the program throughout the year.

Throughout Term 4, the Year 10 Outdoor Education class has been learning about different coastal environments and aquatic activities and were lucky enough to head away to the Surf Coast for an overnight camp. Although the weather conditions weren’t ideal, the camp was still jam-packed with activities.

Day one saw students along with Ms Danni Webb, Mr Sam Waters, Miss Jessica Duff and Miss Emily Franken travel to the Marine Discovery Centre in Queenscliff to learn about aquatic animals and their adaptions, followed by a very exciting scuba diving session with Dive Victoria. Students' resilience was tested that evening, having to set up their tents and equipment in the pouring rain, but their teamwork and positivity prevailed with everyone managing to have a dry night's sleep.

Day two was an early start and a short drive to the beautiful beaches of Torquay, where students spent many hours learning to surf the waves of 'Cosy Corner'. Overall, the camp was a great success and students enjoyed and embraced learning outside of a regular classroom.

On Friday 8 November our Year 10 students donned their finest threads and descended on Yering Meadows Golf Club for the much-anticipated Year 10 Social. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for both students and staff alike to celebrate the journey travelled together in 2019. The venue was amazing, the music was fantastic and the students certainly dressed to impress.

Here are some students’ reflections of the evening:

Hours of preparation: first the spray tan, makeup, hair, dress, jewellery, photos and finally the night came. Here it was, the night we had all been waiting for: Year 10 Social. A photo as you walked in the door as everyone caught their first glance at you. Hellos were said and hundreds of balloons placed all around the venue. As the night went on hundreds (if not thousands) of photos were taken. The teachers, students, those who loved dancing, and even those who did not, all came to the floor to bust out some amazing moves. It almost felt like you were in a mosh pit, sweating and with no space. After speeches and awards there was more dancing, singing and even screaming. So much fun and laughter was had and I can speak on behalf of all people when I say it was a night that exceeded all expectations.

— Katie Kollosche (Year 10 Green)

The Year 10 Social was a very enjoyable experience. The night was full of fun people with many great awards being handed out. Our favourite part of the night was dressing up, talking to friends and eating the delicious food.
— Cameron Isbel (Year 10 Purple) and Jayden Lavorgna (Year 10 Gold)

The 2019 Year 10 Social was a great night with even more amazing people, food and teachers! There were lots of amazing heels, dresses, ties and suits. The night was filled with lots of dancing, singing and laughter as we all celebrated such a great year together. Lots of thanks to Miss Berka, (Year Level Leader) Mr Leaumont, Principal Mr Morison and all of the amazing teachers that helped this event go ahead. It wouldn’t have run without any of you!
— Abbey Wheeler (10 Jade)

At the end of Term 3, on Wednesday 18 September, 32 students from Year 7 and 8 LEAP Italian classes participated in the Swinburne Italian Junior Poetry Competition. Students had to make the effort to learn a poem and practise it in their own time. It is expected that they should convey the meaning of the poem through their expression in the Italian language.

A judge from Swinburne University of Technology visited the College and assessed students’ recitation on pronunciation, intonation, appropriate expression, gestures and eye contact. Students are to be commended for their efforts as they waited nervously, yet they were able to recite their poems to the best of their ability.

There was strong competition with more than 30 schools in Melbourne participating in the September session of this competition. Last month the results were announced. Congratulations to Mia Pizzuto (Year 7 Bronze), who was awarded second prize in the Year 7 non-Italian category. Honourable mentions were Jena Schaak (Year 7 Jade), Carissa Manger (Year 8 Red), Sukhmani Puri (Year 8 Silver) and Jasmine Ryan (Year 8 Purple).

Well done to all students. It is most promising and it is hoped they will continue their participation in Italian poetry competitions in future years. Also, thank you to Italian teacher Mrs Marie Prusac for supporting these students.

Merit:
Sienna Finger (7 Red)
Chiara Giudice (7 Orange)
Steph Greaves (7 Gold)
Lucy Hicks (7 Gold)
Emma Lambert (7 Orange)
Sophie Vos (7 Gold)
Mikaylah Wyllie (7 Orange)
Olivia Barre (8 Purple)
Summer Edyvane (8 Purple)
Mariano Martinez (8 Silver)
Aaliyah Roberts (8 Purple)
Joshua Roberts (8 Silver)

Participation:
Amber Damen (7 Silver)
Maddison Garrett (7 Gold)
Lauren Johnson (7 Gold)
Amy Langcake (7 Red)
Jade Maggs (7 Gold)
Lily McLean (7 Silver)
Beau Wilson (7 Green)
Alannah Rudan (7 Jade)
Ellen Bradley (8 White)
Stephen Cameron (8 Red)
Holly Chapman-Attwood (8 Red)
Mariz Sewiha (8 Red)
Baylin Spencer (8 Purple)
Jasmine Steele (8 Purple)
Jade Stephens (8 Red)

(1) Student Achievements

Congratulations to Brody Hull, Ryan Nunziante (Year 7), Baylin Spencer and Ava Garthwaite (Year 8) on their selection for the Basketball Victoria State Development Program for 2020. If you have any student or staff achievements, please email them to dwebb@mlmc.vic.edu.au

(2) Year 9 Grand Finals

Due to the hot weather on Thursday 21 November, the Grand Finals for the Year 9 EISM sports will now take place on Thursday 28 November. MLMC had wins in nine of the semi-finals contested on Thursday 14 November. See below for the results.

(3) Weights Training

Only one more week remains (Wednesday 27 November) for the Term 4 supervised open gym sessions. Be at the gym 7.15-8.15am and either train with your own program or we can help you out. Breakfast is provided afterwards. See Ms Webb for more information.

(4) Results

Year 9 EISM Results (14 November – semi-finals)

The Years 7 to 11 Visual Arts Exhibition always provides a fantastic opportunity for the College community to come together and share in the joys of creativity — this year was no different. The exhibition, held 11 to 15 November in McAuley Hall had a fantastic and diverse collection of work including painting, drawing, lino printing, sculpture, photography, graphic design, architectural design, film and web design.

The parent viewing evening on Tuesday 12 November was a joyful affair, with many families showing support for the young artists in our community. The Arts Faculty Leader Mr Ben Brice welcomed everyone to our exhibition and our guest speaker from Connection Arts Space, Mr Andrew Duong, explained the power art has in both personal and professional spaces. The Visual Arts Prefect Kanit Lewis thanked the staff and students for their hard work and Principal Mr Philip Morison told a heartfelt story that reminded us that art is, at its heart, a wonderful form of self-expression.

Over the week we gave everyone the opportunity to vote for their favourite work in three categories. The winners of the People’s Choice Awards are:

• Best Art Work: Brodie Leist
• Best Media Film: Grace Clinton
• Best Design work: Joel Starnawski