In recent months there has been a great deal of communication with families, almost all of it COVID-19 related. In this newsletter I would like to focus on other matters.
One of the specific goals in our strategic plan is to ‘foster intercultural knowledge and skills in students, staff and the wider community’. A key means of promoting this goal is our extensive immersion program along with Young Leaders to China and India programs, which are halted at present due to our inability to travel. We were delighted therefore to be informed this week that we have received a grant from the Jewish Christian Muslim Association to assist us develop initiatives to further our exposure to, and understanding of Jewish and Muslim communities. I look forward to bringing you more on the initiatives that this generates in months to come.
Last week we were delighted to welcome Senator Sarah Henderson to the College to meet with a group of Student Leaders. The students presented their thoughts on mental health and discussed a range of initiatives currently in place along with where government support might best be directed. They also raised environmental issues and made clear their concerns for the wellbeing of asylum seekers in offshore detention. It was a great opportunity to have their collective voices heard in Canberra.
The Geelong Catholic Secondary Schools work together closely on a range of matters. Last week we were pleased to confirm an opportunity for families to join an online webcast of the film ‘Angst’. From the producer of ‘Screenagers’ and ‘LIKE’, this short documentary style film focuses on anxiety and teenage mental health. The screening date will be announced shortly and the College Wellness team encourage you to consider joining the webcast. In the next newsletter there will also be further information about an online opportunity to help our students be e-safe.
In 1865 the following opinion was printed in the Boston Post; ‘Well informed people know that it is impossible to transmit the voice over wires and that were it possible to do so the thing would be of no practical value.’ Despite this prediction the telephone became perhaps the most prominent aid to communication of the following 150 years.
In 2020 we are hearing ‘well informed’ people tell us that student learning will be irreparably damaged by remote learning. Like most I wish students were still at school because of the importance of the teacher student relationships but I firmly believe there is enormous upside and opportunity in remote learning. If we get it right, our boys will develop skills they would not have developed in the physical classroom and will be better equipped for, and able to participate in creating their own futures beyond secondary school.
Stay well
God Bless.
Waterford Update
Semester 2 has started positively for the vast majority of Waterford students. While working within COVID safe regulations it was great to be at school. In the last week of Term 2 Waterford students participated in a Headspace Wellbeing Webinar. The key messages around self-care, help seeking and looking out for others were presented. In order to reinforce these important messages this presentation will be revisited by homeroom teachers during RE classes over the next couple of weeks.
The RE and wellbeing curriculum will have a focus on use of technology and social media during this term. There will be wellbeing lessons dedicated to the rights and responsibilities of social media users and how to stay safe online. As parents it is important that you know that wellbeing staff have been dealing with an increased number of issues related to inappropriate use of social media platforms. Please be vigilant in monitoring your son’s online activity and use of social media.
As we move into another phase of remote learning and phase 3 restrictions it will be important to monitor the wellbeing of the boys. Having restrictions on social activities, sport, hobbies and general activities has the potential to impact the wellbeing of the boys. Please refer to wellbeing resources that have been circulated to families and access support if you feel that your son is struggling.
It was very pleasing to have so many of our students perform well during the first phase of remote learning so we are hopeful that the transition back, although unfortunate, will be smooth. I am sure you are aware that it is difficult to teach and conduct classes remotely. Our staff will do their very best to help your son to continue with learning through this time.
Please help your son set up a good routine for remote learning. He should have a well organised productive workplace free of distractions, ask him to be prepared for homeroom by 8:45am and to join all live lessons. Should you need to communicate with a staff member please follow normal channels and use email or call the College reception. Reception staff will pass on messages for teachers who will then make contact with you. Live lessons are not an appropriate time for parents to be communicating with teachers.
The students were provided with subject selection information on Monday 27 July. Relevant handbooks are available from the College website. The subject selection portals will be open for the students to input selections from Friday 7 August until Friday 14 August. Discussing future subject options and pathways is often helpful in focusing students on school performance as motivation can be influenced by investigating the opportunities that the upcoming years will provide.
Simon Piasente - Head of Waterford
Westcourt
Since the return from the mid-year break the topic of discussion has been subject selection for Senior Years at Mt Sion. For many this has been confronting, yet exciting. This has involved discussions around Applied Learning, VITA, VET subjects, VCE acceleration and the wide variety and combination of Year 10 electives. It is important to note that many students will change and shift pathways until settling towards a focus. We also enjoyed an amazing performance at lunch from some of our talented music students. We recently virtually held our Year 8 to 9 Parent Information Evening and encourage all boys to chat to any of our Year 8 students to pass on tips for transitioning to Westcourt. Our staff are now once again prepared for a return to remote learning. We asked all boys to draft a timetable for a fortnightly plan to approach remote learning. Please speak with your son regarding his organisation for learning. We understand routines may vary some days but consistency to study is important. Please communicate with Westcourt Leadership or teachers for any questions or support over this time as need be. We will look forward to a hopeful return to our Campus in Term 4 with all boys and families safe and in good health.
Mark Deverall, Director of Westcourt Campus
Mt Sion
Semester 2 started on a very positive note, with students keen to return to their studies and engage back with their friends. The final few weeks of Term 2, saw many of our senior students participate on optional lunchtime sessions, focused on ‘getting the conversation started’, breaking down the barriers between peers and having open and honest conversations about mental health. These messages will continue to be reinforced over the next few months in both homeroom and wellbeing classes and are vital messages for all young people as we head back into remote learning and stricter isolation.
In recent weeks students in Year 10 and 11 completed their subject planning and selection. Year 10 acceleration students participated in one-on-one meetings with senior staff members as an additional method to ensure they are on the most suitable pathway. For the first time at St Joseph’s College, students were able to refer to their Morrisby testing data for further guidance on possible pathways after secondary school and appropriate subject selections based upon aptitude, interested and personal strengths.
In the coming weeks the College will launch their 2021 leadership application process, commencing with the employment of the 2021 College Captains. Year 11 students, who are interested in becoming leaders in Year 12, will have the opportunity to attend an online information session before the application process begins. Finally, the Year 12 jumpers were a very welcome addition to the start of Semester 2, with all students excited to receive their commemorative jumper.
As we move into a second period of remote learning, it will be important for both school and family to continue to monitor the wellbeing of our boys. Community and household restrictions add to the feeling of anxiety and isolation for many. It is important that we as a community continue to look for ways to connect with one another and support those who are having a difficult time. Please refer back to the wellbeing resources that have been previously circulated to all families. This second phase will be an incredible challenge for our Year 12 students. Previously the Year 12s took remote learning in their stride and should be very proud of the resilience and perseverance they have shown. It is important that all senior students reflect on their first experiences of remote learning: what worked, what didn’t? From this reflection, they need to set up personal remote learning guidelines that will set them up to achieve their best. For many, it will be important to continue their normal routine, including sleep patterns, exercise, and connecting with family and friends on a regular basis. I strongly encourage all senior students to reach out and communicate with their teachers whenever they are having difficulties with a subject. Finally, Mt Sion homeroom teachers and House Leaders will be looking to maintain and strengthen connections and relationships between our boys and our school.
Cassandra Gleeson, Head of Mt Sion
COVID-19 and our Mental Health
As a way of looking after my own mental health, I follow the Resilience Project Podcasts and use their journal. The Resilience Project’s mission is to teach positive mental health strategies to help people become happier and more resilient. The Resilience Project works in schools and offer public talks in the community, and the following statistics underpin their work.
• 1 in 4 adolescents have a mental illness
• 1 in 7 primary schools kids have a mental illness
• 1 in 5 adults will experience mental ill-health throughout the year
• 65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness
“The research is clear; the more positive emotion you experience, the more resilient you will be”. (The Resilience Project website)
The resilience project refer to three key pillars – Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM).
Gratitude – paying attention to the things we have right now and not worrying about what we don’t have. It is also about being thankful about things, places and people.
Empathy – putting ourselves in others’ shoes. Empathy and kindness are closely related, and being kind and understanding to others creates positive mental health.
Mindfulness – being present in the moment, and slowing down.
I am finding these 3 practices really important in my life at the moment, in these times of uncertainty, especially in relation to COVID-19. I am also finding them useful with my family, in assisting me to help my children through this time and in my own parenting.
For more information https://theresilienceproject.com.au
Mary Holmes -Social Worker
SJC Wellness Team
In a non-COVID-19 world it can be very difficult to make time to read. Our lives are so busy with responsibilities, activities and distractions. During the previous time of lockdown and remote learning, many of the students and staff members reported that they had enjoyed a life that had been less busy, and that they had more time to read. They borrowed books from the library prior to remote learning, and borrowed from the eBook and eAudiobook collections during the remote learning period. Researcher Margaret Merga (2019), in Reading Engagement for Tweens and Teens, asks the question “What would make them read more?” Perhaps ‘time’ is one of the answers to this question. Merga writes about the benefits of reading, and states that if we want to be better at reading, that we need to practice it regularly. During this time of remote learning, and being less busy, we would like to encourage students to take some time to enjoy reading.
https://library.sjc.vic.edu.au/#!dashboard
The SJC library has a wide variety of formats and genres. As well as our print collections, we have extensive digital collections for learning and reading for enjoyment. From the library homepage, there is access to the following:
• Wheelers collection of thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks – access on laptop or own device
• LibGuides including: subject guides; online encyclopedias and databases; research skills and assistance; wellbeing resources; lunchtime club information – Books and Movies; Creative IT
• The Age newspaper digital edition
• The State Library of Victoria resources for students
Library support for students
Contact the library team by clicking on the email link on the top left of the library homepage – see example at right. Ask for assistance:
• Accessing any of the collections: print or digital
• Research: accessing or using databases or online encyclopedias
• Referencing: how to reference resources using the library
Wheelers – examples of eBooks just added to our collection:
Last week we celebrated Refugee Week at St Joseph’s College. Although COVID-19 restricted us with what we initially wanted to achieve, I feel that we still managed to educate our students and staff with a deeply moving Solidarity Circle, heartwarming R.E. sessions and an extremely important advocacy letter writing session. We are blessed with such a dedicated, empathetic, motivated and passionate Identity Team here at St Joseph’s. I would like to thank Mary Malone, Belinda Milverton and Leah Irving especially for their tireless efforts to put together an amazing week.
The theme of Refugee Week 2020 was ‘Celebrating the Year of Welcome’.
The Solidarity Circle was an opportunity for all student leaders to participate in an emotional gathering to show support for refugees in our community and people seeking asylum. We gathered not only to educate but to uphold our values of compassion and integrity just as Edmund Rice would have done. We showed appreciation for being able to call Australia home whilst recognizing that there are so many people who face extreme injustices in Australia’s immigration and detention system.
We offered a lunchtime activity of advocacy letter writing and petition signing for all of our students and staff. The campaign is called, ‘No Child Left Behind’. In recognition of Refugee Week our St Joseph’s students were encouraged to learn more about the hardships COVID-19 is causing asylum seeking families in Australia. There are currently around 16,000 children in families seeking protection in Australia. Many people seeking asylum have lost their jobs as a result of COVID-19, as they often work in the service sectors worst affected. People seeking asylum are not eligible for the JobSeeker or JobKeeper payments, like many other workers. They have been left with nothing. It will be hard for them to re-enter the workforce, especially in the current economy.
As a school community, we are committed to justice and peace for all and together the actions of our hands, hearts and our voices in solidarity, bring peace in our world.
GAME 1 - Tuesday 21 July
BROPHY 4.6.30 defeated JORDAN 3.1.19
Brophy Goals: Anthony Leban 2, Xavier Huxtable 2
Brophy Best: Anthony Leban, Xavier Huxtable, James Hughes, Cam Fleeton, CJ Holt, Oscar Morrison
Jordan Goals: Lachlan Kidd 1, Lachlan Neate 1, Dylan Walsh 1
Jordan Best: Lachlan Kidd, Charlie Ham, Aryton Bloink, Mitch Keane, Lachlan Neate, Rory Diamond
School footy returned this week although in a different form as ACC football was replaced with the house football competition and game one took place between Brophy and Jordan in a high intensity contest. Jordan's Lachie Kidd started off with what could be goal of the season, taking the ball coast to coast setting the tone for what would be an exciting contest. Brophy were in quick reply with Xav Huxtable putting through a goal to tie the scores back up and class rising to the top with a absolute hanger taken by Cam Fleeton at the defensive end as well as goal sneak Anthony Leban bauking his way through the Jordan backline as he put through a goal to end the 1st half.
The 2nd half began with the Bees hitting scoreboard with another goal from Anthony Leban and Xav Huxtable. A change in defensive structure for the Bees saw Colin Holt line up on Jordan big man Lachie Neate who took control hitting the scoreboard as well as setting up another goal down forward tightening the gap back to 2 goals. A mark on the siren by Brophy full forward Blake Spiller marked the end of the game and failed to capitalize leaving the Bees with a 2 goal victory and the crowd are reason to both laugh and cheer.
By Blake Spiller - Brophy Year 12
GAME 2 - Thursday 23 July
BUTLER 8.8.56 defeated FOLEY 5.1.31
Butler Goals: Tyler Murphy 4, Oliver Henry 1, Willem Sanders 1, Quinn Taylor 1
Butler Best: Oliver Henry, Willem Sanders, Quinn Taylor, Ethan Durante, Tyler Murphy, Gus Fraatz
Foley Goals: Nick Routley 2, Hamish Dawson 1, Tom Scott 1, Tom Connolly 1
Foley Best: Tom Thiele, Alex Dunn, Tom De Grandi, Hamish Dawson, Bryce Dunnell, Jack Simpson
In the second match of the house football competition, the star-studded Butler Sharks took on the confident but skill lacking Foley Falcons. Year 10 star Willem Sanders kicked a goal on the run to get the game rolling for Butler, which was followed by AFL prospect Ollie Henry's two goals to show the crowd why he is considered one of the more highly talented footballers in this year's draft. Later on in the first half, Foley showed real motivation to stay in the contest with Year 11 Hamish Dawson opening the Falcons account with a set shot conversion and a questionable celebration.
As the match progressed, the score board was hit hard on both ends. Tyler Murphy finished off his bag of 4 cheap goals by avoiding any and all contact as well as demanding the footy in ridiculous situations to the amusement his Year 12 peers. The game was finished off as free kick was awarded to Gus Fraatz whose goal attempt went into overhanging trees even while showing true courage continuing on the game after an earlier collision in the match, which resulted with him receiving 5-stitches in his head. Butler ran out 25-point victors.
By Jesse Sorgiovanni - Butler House Captain
GAME 3 - Tuesday 28 July
JORDAN 6.3.39 defeated FOLEY 5.1.31
Foley Goals: Alex Dunn 2, Ben Huby 1, Hugh Menzies 1, Jack Simpson 1
Foley Best: Hugh Menzies, Will Fitzgerald, Callum O'Leary, Jolyon Simpson, Ryan Connolly, Oscar McDonald
Jordan Goals: Ben Conlan 2, Ted Clohesy 1, Rhys Devlin 1, Rory Diamond 1, Lachlan Neate 1
Jordan Best: Ted Clohesy, Jonty Rush, Jai McGough, Mitch Keane, Cade Knight, Hamish Bourke
Game three of the house football competition started off with Jordan kicking a goal inside the first 30 seconds via Year 10 student Ted Clohesy. Jordan continued to put goals on the board in the first half highlighted by a 60m Rory Diamond bomb whilst Foley only managed one. The first half ended with Jordan -- 3.1.19 and Foley 1.1.7.
As the intensity increased in the second half, Foley gained some momentum. Foley forward Hugh Menzies was taking some strong grabs whilst Mitch Keane and Cade Knight dominated the midfield for Jordan. Some good umpiring and a ripping goal from Ben Huby allowed Foley to mount an unlikely comeback, but time ran out and Jordan remained in front and got the win.
Jordan will need to win next week to be a chance to make the Grand Final whilst Foley have cemented their place in the Minor Final with their second consecutive loss.
By Tom De Grandi -- Foley Year 12
GAME 4 - Thursday 30 July
BUTLER 6.2.38 defeated BROPHY 5.4.34
Butler Goals: Tyler Murphy 2, Nat Stephens 1, Jesse Sorgiovanni 1, Jacob Assemani 1, Ethan Mayhew 1
Butler Best: Ben Clark, Gus Fraatz, Oscar Fraatz, Ethan Mayhew, Tyler Murphy, Ethan Durante
Brophy Goals: Mark Gudasic 1, Hugo Clatworthy 1, Blake Spiller 1, Anthony Leban 1, Flynn Kinsey 1
Brophy Best: Matt Sorgiovanni, Anthony Leban, Noah Jewell, Xavier Huxtable, Hugo Clatworthy, Luke Bartolo
Game 4 of the St Joseph's house football competition was heavily anticipated by all. The power house of Brophy Bees coming up against the smooth moving Butler Sharks was set to be one of the games of the tournament as the excitement could be heard from all around the ground. Starting as a very tight contests as midfielders from both sides battle to exit the ball from the middle, it was the Butler boys who were able to strike first with goals from an in form Tyler Murphy. Courageous efforts from Gus Fraatz along with his bull of a brother Oscar aimed to open the game up, however the Brophy boys were able to hold their ground as Year 10 young gun Matt Sorgiovanni was finding his feet, becoming more influential as time went on. A quick goal from Mark Gudasic saw Brophy close the gap, yet the Butler boys kicked a few late goals seeing them take a narrow lead at the half.
The second half started the same as the first, a tough battle in the middle saw all players puffing as momentum started to swing in the way of the bees. Xavier Huxtable and young Sorgiovanni were solid along the center, not letting the ball creep past half way. The crowd was electric every time a chance came for cult figure Blake Spiller to kick a snag, and boy did he give the crowd a show. Repeat efforts finally earned him a well-deserved goal, as the Butler boys only held a slender 2-goal lead. With the Butler boys under pressure, brilliant goals from Anthony Leban and Flynn Kinsey inched them closer to the lead as year 11 star Luke Bartolo started to create a big impact on the game with his winning of the contested ball. As the final whistle blew it was the Butler boys 6.2.38 who took home the victory with a 4 point win over Brophy 5.4.34.
By Quinn Taylor - Butler House Captain Year 12
TERM 3 - UPCOMING EVENTS
17-23 August - Keep Australia Beautiful week
September - National Biodiversity month
7 September - National Threatened Species Day
7-14 September - National Organic Week
22 September - World Car-Free Day
SCHOOLS TREE DAY AND NATIONAL TREE PLANTING DAY
To celebrate the Schools and National Tree Planting Days for 2020, students have been productive over the past fortnight planting indigenous species around the College.
On Monday 27 July, ATSI Students together with Sustainability Leaders, Senior Student Leaders, and VITA students, Mrs Sue Collins, Mr John Stephenson and Mr Shane Dawson collaborated to plant out our new planter boxes with indigenous food species. With a wonderful display of enthusiasm and teamwork, the planting, mulching and watering was completed in no time at all. The planter boxes were constructed by VET Building and Construction students in 2019 and have recently been sealed stained and had taps included by Maintenance staff. Under the guidance of Mr Shane Dawson, VITA students established "wicking beds" in the base of each of the four planters, using scoria, aggregation pipe, shade cloth and soil. The wicking bed system enables a large body of water to be stored at the base of the planter boxes for plants to draw from, minimising evaporation and creating a more sustainable use of our precious water resource.
REVIEW
Last week, Senior Leaders, Sustainability Leaders, and VITA and ATSI students planted indigenous bushfoods and plant species next to the Careers building. The planting is a symbolic moment for St Joseph's College as it represents a form of reconciliation, acknowledging the cultural, spiritual and natural heritage of Indigenous Australia. Indeed, one species in particular, known as the Yam Daisy (Microseris lanceolata) or ‘Murnong’ was a staple food in the diet of indigenous people. Following colonization and the introduction of European cattle and sheep, the once widespread food crop was devastated. By cultivating this food-crop, which bears many similarities to a potato in European society, St Joseph’s College is helping to assist an age-old cultural and agricultural tradition. Other bushfoods planted on the day include Kangaroo Apple (Solanum laciniatum) which typically grows along riverbanks and colonised disturbed ground, Midyim Berry (Austromyrtus dulcis), Seaberry Saltbush (Rhagodia candolleana), Bower Spinach (Tetragonia implexicoma) and Karkalla (Carpobrotus rosii) which grows in the sand dunes on the coast and has an edible fruit.
Planting these species provides habitat by enhancing ecological diversity and drawing pollinators and birds on to the Campus. It also provides nourishment for the students and staff at the College. These plants yield food thus providing material sustenance and the activity of planting them nourishes students spiritually and culturally. With all that has occurred this year and the focus on student/staff wellbeing, getting into contact with healthy microbes (i.e. getting your hands in the soil) and cultivating some plants might just be the perfect tonic.
Patrick Day - Year 12 Senior Leader
On Tuesday 28 July, several Year 7 Class Captains collaborated with Student Leaders to conduct planting in our Reconciliation garden adjacent to the Arts building. Facilitated by Student Leadership Coordinators Mr Ashley Crook and Mr Sam Querella, students joined our ASTI Coordinator, Mrs Sue Collins to plant Gold Dust Wattle (Acacia Acinacea) and Rock Correa (Correa Glabra) throughout the garden. The vibrant yellow flowers of the Gold Dust Wattle and delicate tubular red and yellow flowers of the Rock Correa, will enhance the garden, providing extra colour, symbolic to both our Indigenous heritage and our College identity.
On Monday 3 August VITA students together with Mr Shane Dawson, continued works on the Carey Embankment Revegetation Project, planting approximately 30 trees including; Gold Dust Wattle (Acacia acinacea) on the north embankment and Lightwood or Hickory Wattle (Acacia Implexa) on the far west embankment.
I would like to thank all students and staff involved our "Tree Day" planting endeavours this term. Such a simple yet important action that we can all undertake for a more sustainable future.
POLYMER RECYCLING CENTRE
Since the launch of the recycling centre in week one this term, it has been heartening to witness the level of interest and support from the community regarding items that may be donated and the opportunities our equipment provides for recycling. Currently we are able to shred, press and reform material into items such as Frisbees, using the vacuum former. Our goal (with funding), is to purchase an Injection Moulding Machine, enabling a far greater array of items to be created.
We encourage families and community members to continue collecting number 2 and 4 plastic containers and bottle tops; however, we request that items remain at home until the College until it reopens.
Our regular outreach programs and service learning opportunities continue to be affected by Government guidelines currently in place to protect us all against coronavirus. Two of our College values of Innovation and Compassion have been at work and the Identity team is working hard to bring students new and creative ways to continue to serve.
Given the many challenges presented by the corona pandemic, a show of solidarity exhibited through volunteering allows our students to remain socially connected whilst practising social distancing. It is very important for the students and those they are helping that we continue to offer service learning opportunities.
In the current crisis, volunteering to help others offers teens comfort and purpose. Every student at each year level is required to complete a minimum of 3 hours of service learning through school. Opportunities are emailed to students and advertised on the student bulletin.
Service learning in the current climate not only benefits the individuals or organisations the students are supporting but also has many benefits for the students’ well being and mental health. Volunteers claim that they get as much back from their efforts as the people or organisations they are supporting. Evidence shows that volunteering can build confidence and self-esteem and is a valuable learning tool. This may help to counteract low mood, by producing more positive thinking.
Winter Sleep out: Last week over 300 students, staff and families slept rough at home to raise awareness of people experiencing homelessness. Please ensure donations of warm clothing, new socks, bedding, pantry items and personal hygiene products are brought to school by Friday 7 July. Items will be donated to, and distributed, by volunteers at Lazarus Community Centre.
Refugee Week: All students have been emailed instructions on how to sign a petition in support of asylum seeking families in recognition of Refugee Week.
SJC Care Group: cook for College families experiencing hardships. Student see daily bulletin for instructions.
Corona Compassion Project: Across Australia, people are putting postcards in their neighbours’ letterboxes to offer assistance with everyday tasks like picking up groceries and medication, and even walking the dog.
Sending your neighbours a postcard connects with people most at risk — like older people, people with underlying health conditions or whose immune system is compromised — while they self-isolate and choose to keep a safe distance.
Please see the attached document for printing and distribution that will allow students to earn service learning credit and House points by helping their neighbours.
In the VITA class we have been planting native indigenous plants in the yard at St Joseph’s College. We started off with scoria rocks by placing them at the bottom so they can act as a water tank, then we added a shade cloth to stop the soil dirt getting through the pipe. We then added the top soil for covering and hay for mulch, after that we had to plant the plants. We planted a number of native indigenous plants these included: Kangaroo Apple (Solanum laciniatum), Myrnong/Yam Daisy (Microseris lanceolata), Midyim Berry (Austromhyrtus dulcis), Seaberry Saltbush (Rhagodia Candolleana), Bower Spinach (Tetragonia Implexicoma) and Pig Face (Carpobrotus Rossii).
One week later, we had an opening ceremony which involved some staff members and students. The VITA class will be maintaining these plants as an ongoing project.
SENIOR FOOTBALL
First XVIII – Saturday 1 August
St Joseph’s College 10.6 (66) defeated by Geelong College 14.5 (89)
SJC 4.1 6.3 8.4 10.6.66
TGC 2.1 7.2 11.3 14.5.89
GOALS: Mitch Langan 3, Ollie Henry 2, Xavier Huxtable 1, Lachlan Neate 1, Caleb Law 1, Quinn Taylor 1, Lachlan Kidd 1
BEST: Mitch Langan, Cameron Fleeton, Charlie Ham, Ben Clark, Xavier Huxtable, Lachie Kidd, Ollie Henry, Sam King
At Geelong College Main Oval
The highly anticipated opening game of First XVIII Football finally got the all clear on Saturday 1 August seeing St Joseph's College to take on their fellow suburb rival, APS Football’s The Geelong College. With energetic moral support being provided by CJ Holt’s self-proclaimed cheer squad and following a comprehensive win by the Second XVIII, the boys were pumped for the big clash.
After winning the toss and kicking with the stiff breeze, inspirational speaker Oliver Henry fired the boys up with a speech to be remembered. Starting as a congested contest with repeat stoppages, the game began to open up with clearances from the likes of speedy left-footer Charlie Ham who linked up with Lachie Neate for the SJC’s first goal. Skillful hands from contested bulls Lachie Kidd and Xavier Huxtable helped Joey’s pile on another 3-goals before quarter time with the scores 4.1.25 (SJC) to 2.1.13 (TGC).
Against the wind in the second, TGC midfielders streamed forward kicking 3 unanswered goals early, forcing SJC’s backs to lock down. Down by 12-points with 10 minutes left, high-flying back Cam Fleeton put on a show for his supporters in the crowd taking multiple intercept marks and setting up goals for fan-favorite Mitchell Langan and Caleb Law. After a tough quarter with TGC small forwards adding goals to the total, Joey’s were down 6.3.39 to TGC 7.2.44 coming into half time.
With the temperature heating up and the game intensifying, handfuls of boys struggled with cramps as the lack of training and isolation diets made themselves known. Standing up amongst the fiery contest was stud back-men Ben Clark who remained strong through the surging pressure of TGC midfielders. Late in the third, SJC’s power house forward Oliver Henry rose to the occasion continuing to make his presence known with a crucial goal whilst pressure acts from swift-moving mountain Mitchell Langan sparked the boys heading into the last with the scores 8.4.52 (SJC) to 11.3.69 (TGC).
Starting the final quarter against the wind, TGC’s small forwards piped up kicking two early goals placing the pressure on SJC’s midfield to continue fighting. After seeing Cam Fleeton come off the ground to grab one of Smokey Dawson’s signature calf rubs, silky right-footer Quinn Taylor snuck forward to kick a vital goal with less than 10 minutes left. With both teams providing a cracking last quarter, The Geelong College began to run away with the game, proving their weekly training had payed off compared to some underdone Joeys boys.
Although losing the game 10.6.66 (SJC) to 14.5.89 (TGC), it was definitely a memory the involved boys will cherish for life being their only Year 12 game of football.
By Joel Fleeton – Year 12
Second XVIII – Saturday 1 August
St Joseph’s College 11.15 (81) defeated Geelong College 2.5 (17)
SJC 0.2 3.8 6.10 11.15.81
TGC 0.2 1.3 2.5 2.5.17
GOALS: Tyler Murphy 3, Archie East 2, Blake Spiller 1, Flynn Kinsey 1, Tom Connolly 1, Hugh Menzies 1, Declan Clark 1, Hugo Clatworthy 1
BEST: Hugh Menzies, Hugo Clatworthy, Jack Drought, Colin Holt, Nick Routley, Blake Spiller, Ayrton Bloink, Ethan Durante
At Geelong College Main Oval
After a disappointing last few months of being left in the dark whether the Year 12 cohort would get any local footy in before it was finally canned, the boys were hungry when the opportunity arose to play against The Geelong College. Callum O’Leary led the Super 2’s in a first quarter arm wrestle. The backline was led by generals CJ Holt and Nick Routley who didn’t allow anything through and on the rebound misses from key forward Blake Spiller and Will Beste meant we ended the first quarter tied at two points apiece.
The second quarter was another tight contest but the Killer B team was helped with good-looking ruckman Hugo Clatworthy putting on a clinic as well as Hugh Menzies with absolute domination across the forward flank, putting through the first to open the Joeys boy’s checking account. College slipped one through the Great Wall that was the Joeys boys’ backline but the boys quickly rebounded with Blake Spiller finally putting one through after kicking 3 points prior. The Joeys midfield showed absolute class with Jack Drought, Ayrton Bloink and Ethan Durante all applying great pressure to keep the ball trapped in their forward which allowed small forward Tom Connolly to kick goal of the day with a dribbler from the pocket off the throw in right on the half time siren giving Joey’s the 15 point lead.
The second half started with even more inspired efforts from stud Hugo Clatworthy as well as equally good efforts, from the equally good-looking Hugh Menzies. Joeys piled on another 3-goals including one from Archie East who hadn’t played football in over 4 years to stretch the lead even further. CJ Holt and Nick Routley continued their dominance down back with help from Jack Bentley and Tom De Grandi to keep College to just two goals for the game at the end of the 3rd Quarter.
The final quarter was all domination by the Joeys squad as Tyler Murphy – having got the start time wrong – arrived in the last quarter to kick 3-goals and others to Flynn Kinsey and Declan Clark buried College to a point in which they couldn’t return. College were held scoreless in the last and the Joeys boys finished well on top to run out 64-point victors.
By Blake Spiller – Year 12
CareMonkey is rebranding to ‘Operoo’
CareMonkey, will be rebranding as ‘Operoo’: The name change will occur the week beginning Monday 10 August. How you use the service, as well as the ownership and operation of the company, will remain unchanged.
You can continue using the system, and its mobile application, as usual. Just be aware that, after Monday 10 August, emails and notifications sent from the system will start appearing under the new name ‘Operoo’.
You will also be automatically diverted to the new Operoo website if you go to the old CareMonkey website.
REMOTE LEARNING TIMETABLE
During remote learning we will be moving back to our remote learning timetable. This provides a longer lunch break to allow students to get away from their screens. Below are the period times:
Homeroom: 8:45 - 9:00
Period 1: 9:00 - 9:45
Period 2: 9:45 - 10:30
Break: 10:30 - 10:55
Period 3: 10:55 - 11:40
Period 4: 11:40 - 12:30
Lunch Break: 12:30 - 1:50
Period 5: 1:50 - 2:35
Period 6: 2:35 - 3:20
Are you applying for VCAL in 2021 or considering a School Based Traineeship / Apprenticeship as part of your Year 12 VCE studies?
The Geelong Region SBAT TASK Force Group have developed a website showcasing what is on offer regarding SBAT's in the Geelong Region for 2021 and other useful information from employers, Group Training Organisations, Australian Apprenticeship Network Providers and Associates.
https://www.sbataskforcegeelong.com/
You can also access providers websites, flyers on certificates offered, exciting videos and other important documentation on SBAT's available.
If you need more information, please call into the Careers Office and see Mrs. Rae
Thank you
The ACC welcome the return of the ACC Running Challenge, with a twist to the competition for Term 3. This term will see the challenge run as a cumulative competition, with schools in the ACC Community participating to accumulate KM's to travel "virtually" around Australia. "Run Around Australia" is a new challenge for the ACC Community. The aim is to do one lap of the Country which is Approx. 14,595 km in distance.
How Do I Get Involved?
Click on the following link to submit your run/walk -
How are the results collated?
Each time you complete a run or walk outside of school hours, you will need to complete a new form (it will take about 2 minutes). You will need to submit your school email, name and distance. You can use any fitness app for this -- Strava, Nike Running, Map My Run, Runkeeper, etc.
The overall winning school for most KM's totalled at the end of term 3 will win the Cup. Students in each year level with the most KM's will receive a pennant.
Let's get involved - track your walk or run with a fitness app and upload using the link above!!
Follow 'accschoolsport' on IG to see weekly results/updates
If you missed the Expo, don't worry, all information for your subject pathways can still be accessed through the Careers website at:
www.sjccareers.com/custom-page/2
The Expo contains important Information sessions on Senior School programs, such as VCE, VET and VCAL and University and other tertiary provider information. It also can give you access to the Handbooks for 2021.
Couch conversation (for parents and carers), exploring the importance of remaining connected as a family during our constantly changing future.
Join drummond streets’ family therapist Julie Yeo and Rising Minds clinical psychologist Michelle Zarafa for a discussion around helping parents and carers stay connected to their children and families during these uncertain times.
Wednesday 26 August, 7:00 – 7:45pm
Book via our website www.ds.org.au or email [email protected] and we will send you the webinar link
