St Benedict's Catholic College
Newsletter - Friday 6 December 2024
Communication
As we approach the end of the school year the College recognises the importance of effective communication between parents and teachers and all parents and carers are encouraged to discuss their child’s progress at any time during the year. As we come to the end of the academic school year here will be an opportunity for parents to book in for Parent Teacher Meetings.
Students whose parents stay involved in their education have better attendance and are more likely to develop a lifelong love of learning, which educational researchers say is key to long-term success.
Some questions that you may like to ask at parent teacher meetings:
What suggestions do you have for me to help my child improve/extend their learning?
What has my child’s biggest success or achievement been this semester?
What can I be doing at home to support my child with their learning?
What advice would you give my child in this subject as they progress to the next year/stage?
How involved are they in class discussion?
Traffic and Pedestrian Safety for Students
St Benedict’s is situated in a very busy precinct surrounded by high populated housing and thus traffic and road safety is non–negotiable for all. In particular, I would like to remind all students exiting and entering the College into Hollows Drive to use the school crossing. The school crossing is a clearly marked zone, signalling to drivers that students may be crossing.
By using it, students make themselves more visible, reducing the likelihood of accidents. I would also ask that parents who are collecting students from this area to remind their children about using the crossing. Using the school crossing sets an example for younger students and reinforces the sense of community responsibility. We are not just individuals; we are part of a collective effort to keep our school environment safe.
Could we also remind parents about the importance of complying to traffic signs and rules around the school crossing area around Hollows Drive.
Tips for Safe Crossings:
Before stepping onto the crossing, make sure to stop and check for oncoming traffic. Look left, right, and left again. Listen for any approaching vehicles.
Even with the right of way, it's essential to cross with caution. Make eye contact with drivers, and only proceed when you're certain they've seen you.
When using the crossing, stay within the marked lines. This not only ensures you're in the safest part of the road but also sets a clear path for drivers.
Put away your phone or any other distractions when crossing the road. Paying attention to your surroundings is crucial for your safety.
Kind regards,
Michael Turner
As we move into the final week of 2024, I would like to thank all members of the community for their assistance with College events, community building activities and their commitment to learning in 2024. I will personally miss this community very much and would like to thank everyone for their support as I embark on a new journey in 2025 and beyond.
There are some reminders and items for Week 9 and 10 below:
Week 9 and 10
As we had into the Christmas break, students are reminded that the standards we set during the year are maintained until the final bell. This refers not only to uniform, but also classroom and playground expectations and behaviour. The College will not tolerate any misbehaviour at the end of the year and any request students return after the final day if required.
Phones and Devices
Parents are reminded that students are not to have their mobile phone, air pods or other devices with them at school. If they do have these, items must be placed in their lockers and not taken to classes or out to breaks. Students caught with these will have them confiscated and placed in the office for collection.
Student of the Month Lunch
Congratulations to all students who have been recognised in our Student of the Month initiative this year. Over 300 of our community members from Year 7-12 have been nominated for these awards.
On Monday 9 December, all these students will be treated to a Pizza van lunch, provided by the wonderful P&F, in recognition of their commitment to themselves and to our College. This will occur in Period 4 and an event created for their attendance.
School Fee Information
Payment of school fees by instalment - New families to our school
School fees are invoiced as an annual account, due for payment in full 30 days after invoicing. However, many families elect to pay their school fees by regular instalments and as a new family to our school , we would like to offer you this option. If you wish to take up this offer, please complete a request to pay by instalment form which is available on the school's website or the school office.
On completion of the request, either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit to the school office. Following receipt of this, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2025 school fees. Your school fee statements are emailed to you and they will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date.
Existing Families in our School with Instalments
If you are currently paying by instalments there is no need to complete another request to pay by instalment as your request carries over from year to year unless you wish to amend the frequency of your payments. eg; weekly to fortnightly.
Existing Families in our School without Instalments
If you would like to pay school fees by instalments in 2025 and have previously not taken up this option for payment, please complete a request to pay by instalment form which is available on the school's website or the school office.
Following receipt of this, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2025 school fees. Your school fee statement will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date depending on the frequency you have chosen. eg; weekly, fortnightly.
Important: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another request to pay by instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment.
Kind regards,
John Wheeler
Advent
As we journey through Advent, we are invited to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Advent, from the Latin word adventus meaning "arrival," is a season of joyful expectation and hope. It reminds us to look forward not only to the celebration of Jesus' birth at Christmas but also to His promise to be with us always.
This time of year is often busy with end-of-year activities such as school Christmas concerts and preparations for the festive season. Yet, Advent encourages us to find moments of stillness amid the busyness. Lighting the Advent wreath reminds us that Christ, the Light of the World, dispels darkness and fills our lives with peace and love.
Let us embrace the themes of the four Advent candles—hope, peace, joy, and love—and bring them alive in our school community. May we share hope with those in need, be instruments of peace in our relationships, spread joy through small acts of kindness, and reflect God’s love in all we do.
As we count down the weeks to Christmas, may our hearts be ready to welcome Emmanuel—God with us—with renewed faith and a spirit of gratitude.
Wishing you a blessed Advent season.
Bishop’s Retreat - Wednesday 27 to Friday 29 November
Year 12 students from across the diocese last week attended an overnight leadership retreat in Mittagong, facilitated by Bishop Brian Mascord and members of the Catholic Education Office. Our College Leaders - Cody Irwin, Jada Halls, Kirsty Fernandes and Claire Small attended the retreat and were outstanding.
Students engaged in a variety of programs and activities to strengthen their understanding of Catholic leadership. Through prayer, discussions, and presentations, they explored their faith and envisioned how to build flourishing school communities.
Their enthusiasm and dedication are a testament to the bright future of Catholic education within the diocese. We look forward to seeing how these student leaders continue to model faith-filled leadership in the new year and beyond.
I have included in our 2025 College Captains Cody Irwin, Claire Small and Kirsty Fernandes reflection:
The Bishop's Retreat was a transformative experience for our leadership team as it deepened our understanding of Catholic leadership. Bishop Brian Mascord, Director Schools, Peter Hill and our group leaders provided us with insights inspiring personal growth, emphasising the values of faith, service and humility. Reflecting on our shared mission as leaders, we connected with Captains and student leaders from other Wollongong dioceses, fostering collaboration and unity. On the last day, we were asked to share a presentation on our school, and we discussed our mission and vision for 2025. I am very proud of all of us as we all worked hard and we believe our presentation was able to embody our wonderful community, leaving a lasting impact on how we guide and support our communities. I would also like to thank Mr Turner, Mrs Holland and Mrs Logue who assisted in preparing and supervising this amazing retreat.
St Benedict's to me is perfectly embodied with this artwork, we all come from different roots or backgrounds but the trunk symbolises our time and journey together at this school filled with faith, learning and wellbeing, but eventually, we will all go on different paths. Therefore St Benedict's is a gateway to our future and although our time together will be short it has the ability to shape our future.
Cody Irwin
From the 27 to the 29 of November, my fellow leaders and I were fortunate to participate in the annual Bishop's Retreat with Catholic Schools in the Wollongong Dioceses, meeting with their School Captains and Vice Captains. We learnt so much about the meaning of leadership in a Catholic School, listening to Bishop Brian's Story and participating in Mass. These moments were special for us leaders as we were able to come together and formulate ideas on the visions we want for 2025. On Friday, we were able to present our ideas for St Benedict's community in 2025 to Bishop Brian and all the principals from the dioceses including Mr Turner. With the help of Mrs Holland and Mrs Logue, we were able to successfully present our ideas around "It's who we are, It's what we do" as well as hearing the ideas from other schools. This retreat was insightful as we were able to meet many new friends and connect as a group.
Claire Small
The leadership retreat was a transformative experience that not only deepened our understanding of our roles but also strengthened our bonds as a team. Throughout the retreat, we were challenged to think critically about what it means to lead with purpose, and we were reminded of the immense responsibility we hold in shaping our school’s mission and vision for 2025.
The presentation on our school and who we aim to be as leaders was a particular highlight. It was inspiring to see each school bring their unique perspective and their own visions in their own presentation to articulate collective goals. Presenting our vision wasn’t just about sharing ideas—it was about setting a foundation for the legacy we hope to leave behind.
Beyond the structured activities, the retreat was filled with moments of connection and joy. Whether it was late-night laughs, shared meals, or teaming up for games and a spontaneous karaoke and dance night, these moments allowed us to bond in ways that go beyond our leadership titles. We discovered new sides to each other, building friendships that will undoubtedly strengthen our teamwork throughout the year and build connections with other fellow leaders from other schools.
As we reflect on this retreat, we walk away with so much more than just ideas for the future. We’ve gained a deeper sense of purpose, a stronger support network, and memories that will last a lifetime. To the other leaders, thank you for your enthusiasm, commitment, and willingness to step up and contribute so meaningfully. This retreat was a success because of the collective energy and passion you brought to every moment. I also want to thank Mrs Logue for helping us in the preparation, Mrs Holland for accompanying us and Mr Turner for visiting us to listen to our vision for our school in 2025.
Kirsty Fernandes
Wishing everyone a blessed term,
Kimberley Logue
College Mass & Presentation of Awards
Parent Teacher Student Meetings - Years 7 - 10
Kind regards,
Wendy Fawbert
Annual Bishop's Leadership Retreat for 2025 Senior Leaders:
A Transformative Journey
Last week, the 2025 senior student leaders from our diocesan high schools gathered for a three-day retreat at the peaceful La Rosey Student Centre, The Hermitage, in Mittagong. Set against the stunning natural beauty of the grounds, this retreat proved to be a significant and inspiring experience for all involved.
Guidance from Bishop Brian Mascord and Peter Hill
Throughout the retreat, Bishop Brian Mascord and Peter Hill took time from their busy schedules to work closely with our senior leaders, offering personal guidance and support. Their focus was on the importance of Catholic leadership in the modern world, particularly in light of the upcoming Jubilee Year of 2025. As “Pilgrims of Hope,” the student leaders were encouraged to reflect on their vital role as bearers of Christ’s love in their schools and communities.
Reflecting on Faith and Leadership
The retreat provided students with the opportunity to delve deeply into what it means to lead with faith and service. Through group activities, reflective prayer, and collaborative discussions, students explored the relevance of Catholic leadership today, realizing how their actions can inspire others and build strong, compassionate communities. As part of the retreat, each school’s Captains and Vice Captains also gave presentations, showcasing their school’s mission and values.
St Benedict’s Student Leaders Shine
A special moment of pride for St Benedict’s College came when our student leaders, Jada Halls, Cody Irwin, Claire Small, and Kirsty Fernandez, presented their vision for 2025. Their presentation on leading St Benedict’s into the future was exceptional, and they were warmly congratulated for their thoughtfulness, clarity, and passion. Their vision for the school demonstrated strong leadership, and their commitment to upholding the values of faith, service, and community truly shone through. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the way they represented St Benedict’s with such dignity and pride during the retreat.
A Day of Acknowledgment
On the final day of the retreat, Catholic Education Wollongong office leaders, along with principals from the participating schools, joined the students to acknowledge their dedication and growth. The day included Mass, presentations from the student leaders, and a shared lunch to celebrate the students' journey and leadership development over the three days.
Looking Ahead to the Future
This retreat has set the stage for the 2025 senior leaders to return to their schools with a renewed sense of purpose and faith. We are confident that they will embrace their roles with hope and humility, ready to make a positive impact in their communities.
We thank Bishop Brian Mascord, Peter Hill, and all the staff and leaders who supported this retreat, and we look forward to the continued growth of these future leaders.
St Benedict's is excited to see how these young leaders will inspire change and foster a sense of community in their schools as we prepare for the Jubilee Year ahead.
Kind regards,
Teresa Holland
Information in this calendar list is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice.
Term 4
- Monday 9 - Friday 13 December - Year 10 Transition Week
- Friday 13 December - Year 10 Presentation of Awards
- Friday 13 December - Last Day for Year 10 & 11 Students
- Monday 16 December - End of Year Mass & Years 7 - 9 Presentation of Awards
- Tuesday 17 December - Student Activity Day (Austinmer Beach)
- Tuesday 17 December - Last day of Term 4 for students
2025 School Return Dates
- Monday 3 February - Year 12 Students ONLY
- Tuesday 4 February - Years 7 & 11 + All new students
- Wednesday 5 February - All students return
Dear Year 10 Students, Parents, and Carers,
The Year 10 Pastoral Team hope that this communication finds you and your respective families in good health and you are looking forward to a joyous and rewarding end to the year.
We are excited to introduce the Year 10 Final Weeks Program for 2024, specially designed to cater to the needs of both students returning in 2025 and those students who have decided to transition from St Benedict’s and take on education and employment opportunities in different settings.
This week long program has been thoughtfully crafted with students' individual paths in mind and we encourage you to take a close look at the schedule and breadth of programs being offered for the final weeks of Year 10.
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations once more to the St Benedict’s Year 10 class of 2024. Year 10 is not easy and the cohort can look back with considerable pride on their many notable achievements. They have displayed dedication, hard work, and throughout the year.
We trust that this plan will offer both parents and students a clear roadmap for the remainder of their Year 10 journey.
Yours Sincerely,
Matthew Limbrey
Year 10 Financial Literacy Program
The Year 10 Financial Literacy Program ran on the 25 and 27 November 2024. This initiative run by Greater Bank Australia and the University of Newcastle in conjunction with myself and other members of staff, was a fully funded and resourced program which aimed at giving the younger population knowledge of financial literacy - a key life skill for anybody entering the workforce or progressing to the next stage of their educational journey.
For our numeracy focus this term, our Year 10 students had the unique opportunity to participate in this dynamic Financial Literacy Program. The program was designed to equip students with practical knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively and make informed decisions about money.
Over several engaging sessions, students explored key topics including budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and smart spending habits. They also delved into the realities of living costs, such as rent, groceries, and bills, preparing them for the responsibilities of adult life. The interactive nature of the program included real-world scenarios, hands-on activities, and group discussions to foster a deeper understanding of financial management.
The highlight of the program were the different workshops led by financial experts and university facilitators, who shared valuable insights into goal setting, building wealth, and avoiding common financial pitfalls. Students also had the opportunity to ask questions tailored to their personal financial aspirations.
The collaboration with Greater Bank Australia and the University of Newcastle has not only enhanced the program’s depth but also showcased real-world applications of financial literacy.
This initiative is part of our commitment to preparing students for life beyond school, ensuring they are equipped with essential life skills.
Kind regards,
Suzanne Seychell
Year 9 Design & Technology - Plastic Fantastic!
This term, Year 9 Design and Technology were tasked with designing, manufacturing and advertising a sustainably made wearable piece of adornment, such as a bag. The bag product had to be made from recycled plastic bags and be inspired by students' personality, values and culture.
I would like to congratulate Year 9 on some outstanding projects. From professionally presented portfolios to fun and creative media advertisements, students were able to showcase their practical skills and quality workmanship and they saved more plastic from going to landfill, which was a big mission of the task from the outset!
Our next task will involve students working in pairs to design and manufacture a product that demonstrates their Australian enterprising activity! Look out for these products going on sale in the Cola in Aussie made Week in Term 2 next year! https://australianmade.com.au/campaigns/australianmadeweek/
I look forward as always to seeing what our students in Design and Technology come up with! Until then, well done Year 9!
Kind regards,
Lorena Ghignone
Year 9 Empathy Project
This term year 9 were engaged in an empathy project where they were challenged to reach out to members of the local community and show empathy. The aim was to help the students develop the ability to understand and share the feelings, thoughts, or experiences of another person. In being a part of this project, it was hoped that the students built stronger relationships, enhanced communication, drove collaboration and teamwork, reduced conflict, encouraged inclusivity and improved their mental health.
The projects included a toy drive for St Vincent de Paul, making Christmas cards for a local aged care facility, making kindness bookmarks for a local primary school, writing kindness notes to teachers and engaging in random acts of kindness towards other students in the College. I would like to thank the students for their contributions to this initiative and also the STRIVE coaches for leading the projects.
Kind regards,
Mr McAteer
Year 11 Hospitality (Food & Beverage)
Earlier this week, the Year 12 Hospitality students ran the cafe at St Benedict's, providing an exceptional experience for our hardworking staff. The experience showcased the students' barista skills, professionalism, and teamwork.
The cafe offered a menu filled with a variety of freshly brewed coffees, including cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites and espressos. Each drink was served with precision and care, ensuring every order met the ‘Warming Hearts Cafe’ standards.
To accompany the beverages, the students prepared a selection of delicious cafe-style foods. Such as different types of breads.
The event not only allowed students to apply their classroom learning to a real-world setting but also provided a wonderful opportunity to give back to the staff who support all student's education. The positive feedback and appreciation from the staff were a testament to the student’s hard work and dedication.
Year 9 High Performance Geography Class
Exploring Sustainable Biomes Through Plant Growth
This term, our Year 9 High Performance Geography class is diving deep into the fascinating world of sustainable biomes with a hands-on experiment that combines environmental science, agriculture, and a little bit of green thumb magic. Over the next two weeks, students will be growing plants that could either be flowers or food, including radishes, basil, and mint — each linked to a specific biome where these plants thrive naturally.
The experiment is part of the class's study on sustainable biomes, and students are tasked with nurturing their chosen plant while researching the biome it comes from. As part of the project, each student will document their plant’s growth, track environmental factors, and explore how these plants contribute to sustainable farming practices in their native biomes. It’s a unique opportunity to see how plants and ecosystems are interconnected — and how we can apply these lessons to create more sustainable ways of living.
By the end of the experiment, students will not only have grown a thriving plant, but will also gain a deeper understanding of how climate, soil, and local practices shape the way food is grown around the world.
We can’t wait to see how the students’ plants develop and hear about the amazing insights they gain through this project!
Stay tuned for updates in the coming weeks!
Kind regards,
Vince Ripepi
Year 10 Science
Year 10 Science classes got creative this week building bridges. They used their STEM skills to work out which shapes produced the strongest construction. The strongest bridge, made out of popsticks and straws, managed to hold an impressive 6.5kg before collapsing.
As a festive twist on our food waste recipes, Joel and Mia have a recipe to use up leftovers from Christmas lunch.
Kind regards,
Erin Lockhart
A huge thank you to everyone who donated to the Christmas hamper appeal for Catholic Care and St Vincent de Paul, Camden. Together we created 23 hampers which will go out to families in our local community. Thank you to all the students who helped Mrs Clement and I to pack and wrap the hampers. It was a huge task on a hot day so we appreciated all the help you gave. Thank you to Year 9 for buying little gifts for St Vincent de Paul, Camden to also share with families alongside the hampers. You will make so many people happy on Christmas morning.
Congratulations to 11 Polding for winning the Christmas Door and/or Window competition. This Strive group will receive a pizza lunch on Monday for being the winners. A special mention to 8.4 Strive for their amazing effort. You will have some chocolates to share. And finally, thank you to all the other Strive groups who participated in the competition. It was a really hard decision because of how much effort everyone put into this activity.
Santa came to visit Bennies today! We had a wonderful photo booth set up in the drama room. Thank you to Mrs Clement and to Year 11 for running the event. All photographs will be emailed to everyone who purchased one throughout Week 9. All proceeds for today will go to St Vincent de Paul.
This week, students from the Social Justice team voted for their new President and Secretaries for 2025 after watching a number of presentations. Each student presented with pride and confidence with all of them showing their passion to continue to drive this amazing team. I am so proud of you all for your efforts. The new positions will be announced in Week 9.
Kind regards,
Sara-Jane Castelli
Is it a song or a poem - Kahoot trivia game
Who wrote it first?
Unfortunately, our Kahoot Trivia Game has been postponed until the new year due to time tabled Library bookings. Our quest to find out whether some of our popular music artists ‘wrote it first’ when it comes to the lyrics in their songs or whether they had some help from some famous historical poets will continue when School resumes in 2025. There are great prizes to be won and some additional rounds with other artists to come.
The Library endeavours to run various Kahoot trivia competitions at recess or lunch to give all our students the opportunity for some interactive engagement and fun.
Come and see what’s trending
BOOKFLIX is a collection of books that have been adapted for television and currently screened on Netflix. Come and see what’s trending in the Library! You will be surprised to learn some of your favourite flix are based on books that we have in the Library waiting for you to borrow on demand!
Overdue books
Please return all overdue books to the Library as soon as possible - those pesky overdue emails are for a reason! We are always happy to renew books for extended periods but please don’t ignore us!
Our fiction books are arranged in Genre - our collections include Classic, Fantasy, Crime, Speculative, Relationships, Sport, Humour, Historical, Manga Graphic Novels and Picture Books. The Library encourages everyone to select a page turning, captivating, action-filled, exhilarating, mind-bending, soul-stirring, thought provoking, fascinating, enchanting literary feast from our collections and don’t forget to explore our digital collection on Sora!
Happy Reading
The Library Team
Students Not Returning in 2025
Students who will not be returning to St Benedict's Catholic College in 2025 (excluding Year 12 students) are requested to send an email to our Enrolment Officer advising us of this change. Please email enrolments_sbcc@dow.catholic.edu.au
How to order food for the canteen via Flexischools
Step 1 - Register
Open your Flexischools app or use their website:
App Store - https://apps.apple.com/au/app/flexischools/id1420774608
Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?gl=US&hl=en_AU&id=com.flexischools
Website - https://user.flexischools.com.au/register
1. Submit your email to create an account
2. In your inbox, open the registration email
3. Click the link within and follow registration prompts in app
Step 2 - Setting up your child's details
Once your account is set up, log into your Flexischools app.
1. Select 'Profile' icon on the bottom right hand side of the screen
2. Under 'Students' click 'Add new'
3. Enter your child's name, school, year level, class & student card number*
* This card number is on the back of your child's Compass Card (10 digits)
Step 3 - Order and pay with ease!
Here's how to order food on Flexischools
1. Click 'Order food' top of app home screen
2. Select the student you'd like to order for
3. Choose a service (break 1 - recess) or (break 2 - lunch) and order date
4. Select any items you'd like to order
5. Once finished, click 'view order'
6. Select 'Checkout & pay' to place the order
How to order a new Compass Card?
When using the Compass App:
1. At the bottom of the screen, select the 'more' option
2. Select the 'Open in Browser' option
3. On the top right hand of the screen click the 'clog symbol'
4. A drop down menu appears and select 'CompassIdentity Card'
5. Click 'Order New Card'
5. Under 'Payment' click the 'Order Now' button
6. An $11.50 (including GST) fee applies and once paid it will take up to 7 school business days to arrive at school
7. The office will send an email to the student when it arrived and the student will need to collect from the Student Foyer.
Remember when the new Compass Card arrives, to update your 10 digit code on the back of the card with Flexischools.
Student medication onsite
This is a friendly reminder that students are not to carry medication with them on site, with the exemption of an EpiPen and/or Ventolin. If your child is required to take any medication during school hours this must be provided to the office by a parent/carer accompanied by the completed Request to Administer Medication Form attached below.
Our MISA representative season has come to an end with a number of our teams competing in finals week. Congratulations to our Year 10 - 11 Girls Volleyball team who won their Grand Final 2 - 0 against Thomas Hassall on Tuesday. The team were expertly coached by Miss Mora and Ms Hills throughout this term.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff who took on the responsibility of coaching our representative throughout the year. Quite often our staff give up their mornings before school, recess and lunches to prepare our teams for games on a Tuesday afternoon.
Thank you to the following staff members who coached a team during Term 4: Miss Mora and Mrs Hills (Year 10 - 11 Girls Volleyball), Mr Limbrey (Year 10 - 11 Boys Volleyball), Mr Sapienza (Year 7 - 9 Boys AFL), Mrs Levi (Year 7 - 9 Girls AFL), Mr Ripepi (Year 7 - 9 Boys OzTag), Mr Earl (Year 7 - 9 Girls OzTag), Mr Murray (Year 7 -9 Boys Indoor Cricket), Mrs McCorry (Year 7 -9 Softball) and Mr Rushworth (Year 10 - 11 Mixed Ultimate Frisbee).
MISA Results
Tuesday 26 November
Tuesday 3 December
MISA 10-11 Girls Volleyball Team
A big congratulations to our MISA 10-11 girls volleyball team on their outstanding grand final victory! Throughout the term the girls showed enthusiasm, determination, and exceptional teamwork to earn 1st place on the ladder and a spot in the MISA grand final against Thomas Hassall Anglican College.
The final match was an absolute nail biter from start to finish and the girls showed immense patience and composure to secure the win in only 2 sets - an amazing accomplishment!
Thank you once again for your dedication, passion and sportsmanship - well done, champions!
Mrs Hills & Miss Mora
MISA 7-9 Boys Oztag
On Tuesday, our Boys Oztag team delivered an outstanding performance, securing a dominant victory over Georges River. The boys showed incredible skill, determination, and teamwork, making it a memorable match that capped off a fantastic season.
Mal Collins was a standout player, scoring two brilliant tries that had the crowd (Mr Ripepi) on their feet. His speed and agility were on full display as he sliced through the opposition's defence. But it was Sam Davies who truly stole the show with an incredible solo effort. His try would have easily been a contender for Try of the Season, as he weaved his way through the Georges River defence in a display of pure class.
Defensively, the team played their best game of the season. The tagging was strong, and the boys were relentless in their efforts to shut down every attack from the opposition. The cohesion and discipline in defence was a highlight of the match and the season as a whole.
Though we finished the season in 2nd place overall, it’s worth noting that the boys' position was affected by a missed week due to extreme hot weather. Had that week not been cancelled, we are confident we would have finished even higher. Regardless, the boys' effort, teamwork, and growth throughout the season have been nothing short of impressive.
A huge thank you to Sharnie and Kayla for their unwavering support and dedication throughout the season. Your help with logistics and behind-the-scenes work was invaluable. We’d also like to thank Brodie for his contributions and commitment to the team.
It’s been an absolute pleasure coaching these talented young athletes. Their growth, both individually and as a team, has been incredible, and I couldn’t be prouder of how they finished the season. I’m already excited to see what we can achieve in 2025!
Mr Ripepi
MISA 10-11 Boys Volleyball
There is no team photo due to the fact that all of the team have booked into a series of deep reflection sessions!
Despite consistent levels of enthusiasm and moments of scintillating volleyball we did not threaten the win column this season.
There is considerable raw talent in this team and it will be harnessed and unleashed at the 2025 Diocesan Championships and during the next MISA season.
The boys team revelled in the success of the Girls team and hope to emulate this incredible achievement.
The team; Dylan Gaspar, Winton Hunt, Jaden Gonzales, Dante Lay, Lindon Ferraren, Marcus Postaj, Zak Halis, Luke Rainbow, Pedro Sabino, Jack Gogarty, Bryx Santoalla, Tino Andreou, Ethan Clugston, Riley Davies, Trent Lewis, Ruben Jessup & Lincoln Judge.
Mr Limbrey
Kind regards,
Simon Zahra
Sports Convenor
College BYODD Program
For all things related to the College BYODD Program, please visit the College BYODD Site. Here you will find all information relating to the BYODD Program including device requirements, Apple Care + and how to configure your device for use at the College.
For questions relating to BYODD, please contact the College or email:
https://sites.google.com/dow.catholic.edu.au/byoddsbcc/it-support
Mrs Tracee Brown
Transition & Pathways (TaP's) Coordinator/ TAS Teacher
School student travel information for parents and students
School Travel Passes
Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.
Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.
Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Terms of Use
Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.
This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.
All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.
Bus Timetables
Please find attached the school bus timetable for 2024 or you can click on the link below to see our school timetable that has been uploaded onto the transit systems website.
https://nsw.transitsystems.com.au/
Uniform Donations Required
Our College's Clothing Pool is running low on uniforms, and we need your help! If you have any uniforms you no longer use, please consider donating them.
You can drop off your donations at the office Monday to Friday, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Your generosity will make a big impact!
Thank you for your support!
College P & F Uniform Clothing Pool Orders
P & F Uniform Pool order form - click here
The P & F preloved Uniform Pool has reopened, please complete the order form and send to the P & F by email at: uniforms@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au
Our wonderful P&F volunteer Tracey will contact you.
Items can be paid for in cash ONLY and collected from the SBCC College Office.
Donations of items in good condition can be left at the College Office.
Rainier College Uniform Shop
ORGANISE UNIFORMS FOR SUMMER NOW
If you know the uniform sizes required, you can purchase the uniforms in-store or place an online order via the webstore at shop.ranier.com.au. For any exchange, item must be in original condition (unworn, unwashed, unaltered, tags attached) with original packaging. Some exclusions may apply. Note that online orders are only processed during shop operating hours. Orders placed during school/public holiday period will be picked and packed when the shop re-opens.
Ranier Schoolwear end-of-year closure and re-opening dates:
2024 last day of trading: Friday 20 December
2025 first day of trading: Wednesday 8 January
Closed on Public Holiday Monday 27 January 2025.
Rainier College Uniform Shop - Update
CONTACT:
Ranier Schoolwear Unit 5/6-8 Porrende Street Narellan 2567
Online purchasing and appointments visit: shop.ranier.com.au
Email: stbenedict@ranier.com.au
Phone: 02 4647 8942
Responses will be provided during opening hours
For more immediate assistance, Head Office details are
Online: ranier.com.au/contact
Email: custservice@ranier.com.au