Term 2, Week 6, 6 June

Upcoming Events

Principal's Update

Farewell

As you are aware, during the past two weeks, I have made the move into the role of Regional Assistant Director for the ten Hastings and Macleay Catholic schools. 

The move was made much easier knowing I was handing the reins to Mr. Adam Kelly. Not only is the school in the very capable hands of an excellent leader, but also a man who is extremely passionate and committed to the college. A former MacKillop student and long-term staff member, Adam is a man of faith, committed to the mission of Catholic education and to ensuring the highest standard of learning and well-being outcomes for all students. Adam’s experience in both the learning and teaching, as well as the pastoral care domains, means he knows that without one, the whole child cannot thrive. I can assure all our MacKillop families that the future of MacKillop is in very good hands with Adam at the helm, supported by an amazingly talented and selfless staff. 

It has been an honour and a privilege to lead a college that has, through the dedication and commitment of many, been a beacon of excellence for Hastings families for almost 40 years. I have too many highlights to mention, but to watch the children of students I taught begin their journey at the same great school their parents attended is one special memory. Watching boys and girls enter Year 7 and then leave the college as confident and capable young men and women at the end of their school days is truly special. Like many of those young men and women, I will take with me the values and lessons of my MacKillop school days into the next chapter and will be a better person and a better leader for having been part of our school community. 

In truth, my greatest joy of teaching and leading young people at MacKillop has not been in the big achievements or milestones; it is the unsung small wins for a student who recognised the reward of their effort, their perseverance in the struggle, and their gratitude to those who supported them in doing so. To have been invited by a student to sit with him, his mum, and Father Paul on the night before he died, after a long battle with cancer, and to witness the comfort he found in prayer will stay with me forever. 

The great privilege of being a teacher is that you have the opportunity to help young people achieve their dreams or, in their most challenging times, to make their lives a little easier by sharing a burden or offering a hand. The great privilege of being a principal is that you also have the opportunity to help families and to be trusted to guide and support. I want to thank you, the parents of MacKillop, for your trust and support throughout my seven years at the college, and I wish you, your children, and your families all the very best. Each and every member of our MacKillop community, past and present, will always be in my heart and in my prayers.

Proudly hosted by headspace Port Macquarie in partnership with Charles Sturt University, Understanding Screen Addiction in Teens is designed for parents, carers and those who work with youth including health professionals & educators, who want to understand the impacts that screen and gaming use can have on the brain, how it may look in teens and some practical strategies for support. 

Facilitated by Dr. Wayne Warburton, Professor of Developmental Psychology at Macquarie University and a registered psychologist. Dr. Warburton brings a wealth of knowledge to this event—one you won’t want to miss!

Free to Attend

Bookings are essential as theatre capacity is limited.
Your free ticket includes session entry and light refreshments. 
For more info & tickets - https://events.humanitix.com/understanding-screen-addiction-in-teens

Afternoon Detentions

Please note that Wednesday Afternoon Detentions are run on the senior site, and students should be collected from the senior site on completion of the detention.

Cath Eichmann
Principal

Rescheduled Learning Conversations

As many families are aware, the recent weather events caused the unfortunate postponement of our last round of learning conversations. These learning conversations have now been scheduled for week six of Term Three, providing an opportunity for families to meet with their classroom teachers and discuss strategies for the continued growth of their child moving forward. More information regarding how these can be booked will be sent early next term.

In the meantime, I recommend that all families continue to explore their child’s Compass learning profile, particularly the learning tasks section, which can be found under the pencil icon in the top header of your child’s Compass page.

This will enable you to see how your child has performed in the various whole-year group assessment tasks throughout the year. These numbers can generate a very healthy discussion regarding the successes your child has experienced and, just as importantly, how they can refine their work to achieve more from their learning. 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact your child’s classroom teacher.

Adam Kelly
Assistant Principal Curriculum

Curriculum Corner

As winter announces its arrival, students across the college are in the midst of, or about to enter, a busy assessment period. Helping your young person stay organised around this time can be quite challenging with so much on, so I've put together a summary of important resources that might be of assistance when you're having conversations at home about what your child has completed and what's coming up:

Assessment calendars

These can be found under the favourites tab of Compass and give a snapshot view of each term with spreadsheets organised by year group.

Assessment notifications

Also found on Compass, these can be accessed by selecting the "Learning Tasks" tab in your child's profile, then selecting the task listed and opening the "Task Details." Notifications are also shared with students either electronically or in hard copy by teachers at least 2 weeks before a task. 

Please note that student marks for completed tasks can also be viewed in "Learning Tasks" for future reference.

Assessment Policy

Also found under the Compass favourites, this outlines our processes related to assessment. This includes what to do when a student is going to be away (planned absences or unplanned absences related to illness/misadventure) and when to use an Assessment Variation Form. This form is also found under Compass favourites, linked throughout the policy, and can be accessed on the college website when applying for extended leave for absences greater than 10 school days.

The Assessment Policy also includes important information related to penalties for the non-submission and/or non-completion of assessment tasks, as well as malpractice in assessment, the successful completion of courses, reviews and appeals, and links to our Stage 6 Assessment Handbook (details specifically related to Years 11-12). 

Compass notifications regarding missed tasks

Families may have already received notifications regarding student absence on days when assessment tasks are due to be submitted and/or completed in class. These notifications are there as a way of keeping you informed about what your child's next steps are. 

I hope the above is of assistance, particularly to our new families across the college. 

Study tip: retrieval practice

If you're wondering how you can assist your child in preparing for their upcoming tasks, the above link from the Learning Scientists outlines how to study using retrieval practice, including the use offlashcards. Flashcards are effective tools for students to practice their recall of information. They require students to review their work, crystallise their understanding of key ideas into a succinct form, and write both the term/question and the definition/answer onto either side of the card. 

Parents can assist their child in their study when using flash cards by reading the terms/questions to their child to see what they remember. The flashcards can also be used by starting on the definition/answer side. If you sort the flashcards into separate piles of areas where students know their stuff and those that require additional consolidation, you can help your child focus their study efforts on those areas for improvement as they get closer to their task while building their confidence.

Michael Peck
Leader of Curriculum

Upcoming School Vaccination Clinic – Thursday, June 19

School Vaccination Programme 2025

We are pleased to inform you that the second round of student vaccinations is scheduled for Thursday, 19 June. This session is specifically for Year 10 students and any students who have missed previous screenings. To ensure your child’s participation, please complete the consent form by scanning the QR code below. 

Please submit the consent form as soon as possible to confirm your child’s participation. If you have any questions or require further information, feel free to contact NSW Health or the college office at 6583 2632. Thank you for your cooperation.

Leaders of Wellbeing: Stage 4

As we reach the midpoint of Term 2, we are delighted to share the exciting progress and achievements happening across our school community. This term continues to be filled with enriching learning experiences, inspiring student growth, and meaningful opportunities for engagement both inside and outside the classroom. We appreciate your ongoing support and partnership in fostering a positive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive. In this edition, you will find updates on upcoming events and important reminders to help you stay connected with all that is happening at our school.

Upcoming Events

We are excited to announce two special events focused on fostering connection and belonging among our students: 

Year 7 Mass and Belonging Day

On Wednesday, 11 June (Week 7), our Year 7 students will participate in the Mass and Belonging Day, which includes a narrated Mass at the church, engaging group activities, and a PC group retreat designed to strengthen their sense of community and connection with peers.

Year 8 Connect and Belong Day

On Friday, 20 June (Week 8), our Year 8 students will take part in the Connect and Belong Day, featuring external facilitators who will lead a dynamic programme aimed at building relationships and deepening students’ sense of belonging within the school. These fantastic opportunities encourage students to connect with new individuals, broaden their social circles, and contribute positively to the vibrant and inclusive culture of our college. We look forward to seeing the meaningful impact these days will have on our students’ growth and community spirit.

Social Media Support

• Be a guide, not a spy - Your child doesn’t need someone watching over them like a detective. They need a guide who helps them understand the online world — without fear or shame. Before reacting with punishment, pause and ask yourself, What was this app offering? What reward was my child seeking? What does this tell me about their needs?
• Focus on features, not just rules - Telling children “don’t talk to strangers online” isn’t enough, especially when apps like Snapchat encourage adding new people. Help your child understand that strangers online don’t always seem scary — they might come through features like Quick Add or appear as simple points or scores.
• Explore Before You Allow Access - You don’t have to be an expert, but you should be familiar with the apps your child uses. Learn about Snap Scores, streaks, group chats, hidden messages, and screenshot alerts. If an app rewards secrecy or silent connections, that’s not a bug — it’s how it’s designed.
• Build Good Digital Habits Early - Safety online isn’t something to add after problems happen; it’s something to teach from the start. Talk openly about online manipulation just like you talk about stranger danger in real life. Teach your child to recognise tricks, trust their instincts, and come to you with any concerns.
• Seek Community, Not Perfection - No one has all the answers — not parents, schools, or policymakers. The best approach is to stay informed, keep the conversation going with your child, other parents, and experts who can help.
• Aim for fluency, not fear - Children will always want to connect and explore—that’s natural and healthy. What they need is support, not suspicion. They need adults who understand the digital world well enough to guide them and notice when something isn’t right.
• You’re Not Alone, start today - You don’t have to figure this out by yourself, but it’s important to start now. Together, we can help ensure our children don’t have to navigate this complex world alone.

Let’s work as a community to support our children’s safe and confident online journeys!

Year 7 & 8 Uniform Reminders

We would like to extend our gratitude to all students who consistently wear their uniforms with pride and adhere to the College Code of Presentation. Your commitment to maintaining our high standards is truly appreciated.

As a reminder, please note the following guidelines regarding our uniform policy:

• Skirt length: Must be to the knee.
• Sport shorts: Should reach mid-thigh.
• Earrings: Only two small studs or sleepers are allowed per ear.
• Socks: Black socks must cover the ankle.
• Piercings: No nose piercings are permitted.
• Rings: One ring may be worn on a hand.
• Shoes: Leather shoes are required with the formal uniform, while joggers are to be worn with the sports uniform. Skate or canvas shoes are not allowed.
• Jewellery: Necklaces, bracelets, or anklets are not permitted.
• Haircuts: Must comply with the school's code of presentation. This means no mullets, unnatural hair colours, rat tails, or other extreme hairstyles.

Important Note on Compliance

Students who fail to comply with the College Code of Presentation will receive two warnings, which will appear on their Compass feed. A third infringement will result in a Wednesday afternoon detention. We kindly request your support in ensuring your child attends school each day in the correct uniform. Your cooperation is invaluable in maintaining our high standards. Thank you for your continued support.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Bronze Award for receiving 30 Merits: Oliver Bell, Bilyana Brown, Erika Collins-Jones, Steele Cottom, Cadence Foley, Siosifa Fono, Sienna Furney, Matthew Lloyd, Sienna Macfarlane, Chloe Moye, Meela Munro, Benjamin O'Brien and Patrick Rolfe.

Jason McRae – Stage 4 Leader of Wellbeing at St. Agnes House
Adam O’Brien – Stage 4 Leader of Wellbeing at Joseph’s House
Tracey Bewicke – Stage 4 Leader of Wellbeing at St. Paul’s House

Leaders of Wellbeing: Stage 5

Upcoming Events - Term 2

• Year 9: Week 7 – Mass; Week 8 – Connect & Belong Day 
• Year 10: Week 8 – Immunisations; Week 10 – Newman Visit

Understanding and Supporting Your Teen

Parenting Through the Teen Years: What’s Going On & How to Support Them

Raising a teenager isn’t easy—but understanding why they act the way they do can make a big difference. In this issue, we’re focusing on two big areas that matter to parents:

• What’s happening inside your teen’s brain;
• How to support better study habits.

What’s Going On in Their Heads?

According to Dr. Justin Coulson at Happy Families, your teen’s brain is still developing, especially in areas that affect empathy, decision-making, and impulse control. This is especially true for teenage boys, who often show a drop in empathy around age 16. That shift can make them seem less helpful or more self-focused—but it’s part of natural brain development, not defiance.

Meanwhile, today’s teens are facing more external pressures than ever. As Parents.com explains, challenges like social media, academic stress, peer pressure, and mental health struggles (such as anxiety or depression) are becoming more common.

What can you do?

• Be calm and consistent;
• Listen without jumping to solve;
• Ask open-ended questions;
• Validate their feelings, even if they seem small to you.
• Being a safe space for your teen to talk can make a huge difference.

Sources:

• “Inside the Brain of Your Teenage Boy” – Happy Families
• “Problems for Teens Today” – Parents.com

Supporting Better Study Habits (Without a Fight)

It’s normal for teens to avoid studying sometimes, but how we respond makes a difference.

Headspace Australia notes that teens are more motivated when they feel supported rather than pushed. Helping your teen find their own reasons to care about school can increase their confidence and motivation.

ReachOut Parents recommend creating a study schedule with your teen, not for them. This builds trust and gives them ownership of their time.

Tips to Help Your Teen Study:

• Ask: “What’s your plan for studying?” Instead of saying, “Go study.”
• Create a quiet, distraction-free space together.
• Encourage regular breaks, snacks, and sleep.
• Praise the effort, not just the results: “You worked hard today,” instead of “You got a good mark.”
  
  

How to Make a Study Schedule:

1. Sit down when things are calm—not in the middle of an argument.
2. List assignments and deadlines and break them into smaller tasks.
3. Plan out their week using a calendar or planner.
4. Include fun, breaks, meals, and sleep.
5. Check in weekly to adjust the plan if needed.

Sources:

• “Motivate Teens to Study” – Headspace
• “How to Make a Study Schedule” – ReachOut Parents

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have received a Bronze Award for receiving 30 Merits: Jayden Atkins, Jonah Barnes, Leila Castles, Isabella  Hawkins, Indy Lorger, Digby Pearce and Nikki Seears.

Year 9 Mass—"We Have Much for Which to Be Thankful”

We invite all Year 9 families to join us for a special Mass celebrating gratitude and the many blessings of the year. The theme, “We have much for which to be thankful,” encourages students to reflect on their growth and express appreciation.

This occasion also highlights the core values we nurture every day: excellence, integrity, compassion, community, and respect. These guide our students in becoming kind, responsible individuals.

We look forward to sharing this meaningful celebration with you and invite you to join us for a small morning tea before the students move back to the college for lunch and lessons for the rest of the day.

• Date & Time: Thursday, June 12, at 9.30 am
• Location: St. Agnes Parish Church, 47 Hay Street

Glen Littler – Stage 5 Leader of Wellbeing at Joseph’s House
Nicole O’Connell – Stage 5 Leader of Wellbeing, St. Agnes House
Tom Salter – Stage 5 Leader of Wellbeing, St. Paul’s House

Year 11

I had cause last week to speak to Year 11 about their communication and treatment of each other.

The new Pope, Pope Leo XIV, has been encouraging a shift in communication styles, urging media professionals to embrace a different approach that promotes peace and disarms words. He has specifically called for communication that is not driven by consensus at all costs, avoids aggressive language, and does not prioritise competition. He has also emphasised the importance of communication that can listen and gather the voices of the marginalised and that fosters a shared understanding of the world.

Some key points that Pope Leo encouraged us to build:

• He advocates for communication that "disarms words" and helps to disarm the world by taking hostility out of our voices, allowing for a more humane and dignified approach to communication.
• He emphasises the need for communication that is "capable of listening and of gathering the voices of the weak who have no voice."
• He calls for communication that "does not seek consensus at all costs, does not use aggressive words, does not follow the culture of competition, and never separates the search for truth from the love with which we must humbly seek it."
• He highlights the importance of communication that acts in a way consistent with human dignity.
• He urges media professionals to be at the forefront of reporting on conflicts and aspirations for peace, as well as situations of injustice and poverty.
• He encourages a form of communication that is passionate, curious, and competent and that knows how to immerse itself in reality in order to tell it, particularly focusing on the stories of the marginalised and the poor.

If we, as responsible adults, want our communities to thrive and want the world to be a better place, it starts with what we can control. That’s us, Year 11. I want that for us.

Bruce Smith
Year 11 Leader of Wellbeing

Year 12

Reports

The recent Year 12 student reports have now been released, and we want to highlight how important it is for your child to carefully review the feedback provided. These reports contain much more than just grades — they include detailed, specific comments from teachers designed to guide your child’s learning and progress during this critical year.

The feedback your child has received is invaluable. It offers clear insights into their strengths and areas that require improvement, giving them a roadmap for how to enhance their performance. We strongly encourage you to support your child in reading through their report thoroughly and reflecting on the constructive comments.

Time is of the essence. This is the ideal moment for students to act on this feedback, seek clarification, and discuss next steps with their teachers. Encouraging your child to engage with these comments now will help them set goals and develop strategies to improve before the year progresses further.

Your support in ensuring your child takes this opportunity seriously can make a significant difference. Together, we can help them move forward with confidence and purpose towards their final year success.

Navigating the final year of school is no small feat, and you are handling the challenges with resilience, focus, and determination. Keep it up.

MS Challenge: Battle of the Paddles

Four wonderful students, Koby Bullen, Keira Crinion, Evie Bullen, and Angelina Mifsud-Scriven, volunteered at the recent event, the MS Challenge: Battle of the Paddles, held on Saturday, 31 May at the Wauchope Tennis & Pickleball Club.

These students were an absolute credit to MacKillop College and the wider community. They demonstrated maturity, initiative, and a genuine willingness to help. They assisted with everything from setting up, managing the BBQ and cake stall, running a silent auction, and selling nearly 300 raffle tickets, always with a smile and positive attitude.

Their energy and commitment didn’t go unnoticed by the players, organisers, and attendees. Many commented on how polite, capable, and enthusiastic they were throughout the day.

Thanks in large part to their help (and the support of our amazing community), the club raised over $5,000 for multiple sclerosis research and support services. Koby, Keira, Evie, and Angelina played a meaningful role in this success, and we hope they are as proud of their contribution as we are grateful.

Daniel O’Dell
Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing

Music News

“Music, great music, relaxes the mind, awakens profound sentiments and is, as it were, a natural invitation to raise one’s mind and heart to God in every situation of human existence, both joyful and sad. Music can become prayer.” Pope Benedict XVI

Rehearsal Attendance

The music ensemble at MacKillop College is currently working hard in rehearsal to put together a repertoire for the annual showcase concert taking place in week 2 of term 3.

With this in mind, it is essential that students and families inform ensemble directors of attendance in rehearsal (in advance if possible). It is difficult for rehearsals to be successful when directors have planned for a certain number of students only to discover on the day of the rehearsal that key members are absent. We understand that there will always be circumstances when notifying ensemble directors early is not possible. 

Thank you for your support and understanding.

Ensemble Rehearsals

• Concert Band (directed by Ms Stewart) Monday - 7:45am - 8:30am, J16 Music Room 
• Pop Choir (directed by Mrs Adams) Tuesday - 7:45am - 8:30am, Theatre 
• Senior Vocal Ensemble (directed by Mr Josh Salter) Monday - 3:15pm - 4:00pm, Theatre
  
• SAPSS Jazz Workshop (directed by Mr Horne) Tuesday - 7:45am - 8:30am, Theatre
  
• SAPSS Junior Drumline (directed by Mark Spence) Tuesday 3:30pm - 5:30pm, College Hall 
• Collective Praise Band & Singers (directed by Mr Denham) Wednesday - 7:45am - 8:30am, Chapel 
• Junior Percussion Ensemble (directed by Mark Spence) Wednesday - 7:45am - 8:30am, J16 Music Room 
• SAPSS Senior Drumline (directed by Mark Spence) Wednesday 3:30pm - 5:30pm, College Hall 
• Senior Percussion Ensemble (directed by Mark Spence) Thursday - 7:45am - 8:30am, J16 Music Room 
• String Ensemble (directed by Michaeli Witney) Friday - 7:45am - 8:30am, J16 Music Room 
• Stage Band (directed by Mr Denham) Friday - 7:45am - 8:30am, Theatre 
  

Links & Forms

Music Ensemble Sign Up Form 2025

Music Tuition Request Form 2025

Instrument Rental Agreement 2025

Upcoming Events

• Year 7 Mass - (St Agnes Church) Week 7, Term 2 - Wednesday June 11, Period 1 and 2, Collective Praise Band & Singers
• Year 9 Mass - (St Agnes Church) Week 7, Term 2 - Thursday June 12, Period 1 and 2, Collective Praise Band & Singers
  
• Pirates Gala Day - (Stuart Park, Port Macquarie) Week 8, Term 2 - Saturday June 21, times TBC, SAPSS Senior & Junior Drumlines.
• Assembly Performance - (College Hall) Week 9, Term 2 - Wednesday June 25, period 1, Senior Percussion Ensemble
• Elective Music Lunch Concert - (COLA) Week 9, Term 2 - Thursday June 26, Lunch 2, 8 9 10 Elective Music
• Artwalk Performance - (Town Green) Week 10, Term 2 - Friday July 4th, time TBC, Senior & Junior Drumline
• Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Gala Ball - (Panthers Auditorium) Week 1, Term 3 - Friday July 25th, 5:30pm - 7:00pm Senior Drumline
• Co-Curricular Music Showcase - (THEATRE) Week 2, Term 3 - Thursday July 31, Matinee Performance, L1 - P4, ALL MACKILLOP ENSEMBLES (Excluding year 12 students)(THEATRE) Week 2, Term 3 - Thursday July 31, Evening Performance, 5:30pm - 7:30pm, ALL

Please contact Mr Denham with any questions relating to the co-curricular music program at MacKillop College.

Robert Denham
Leader of Co-Curricular Music

Sport News

School Sport

School sport during term 3 has been very challenging. We have had to face many last-minute changes with venues out and weather conditions being so bad. Thankfully, the staff and students have been extremely adaptable, and we have managed to pivot effectively and enjoy sport each week, with very little drama.

I encourage the students to continue to check their emails for updates on sports each week. This is particularly relevant for our upcoming Athletics Carnival. We are looking for the opportunity to hold the pre-events in the coming weeks. All students who have registered will be notified of when their event is via email and the college notices.

Andrea Huxley (Leader of School Sport)

NSWCCC Rugby League Selection Trials

MacKillop recently had the following students represent Northern NSW at the NSWCCC Rugby League selection trials in Sydney; U18 Girls (Milla Swain), U15 Boys (Rocky Mann and Tobias Rowlatt) and the U16 Girls (Darcie Gleeson, Lily Mosely and Arliah Morris).

All five students played exceptionally well, with the U16 Girls finishing the day undefeated and Lily being named Player of the Match. The boys performed exceptionally well, drawing their first game, losing their second, and winning their third. Rocky was lucky enough to get man of the match for the third game.

Special congratulations to Tobias and Rocky who made the NSW Country Development team and Arliah. Lily, Milla who were named in their respective NSWCCC Teams. The boys will play in Sydney in July and the girls will travel to Townsville to play at the National Secondary Schools Rugby League Championships.

These are fantastic achievements, and we wish them all the best as they embark on these exciting opportunities. 

Thank you to Mr. Littler, who coached the Northern U15 Boys team. 

Erin Denham - Northern U16 Manager

All school swimming shines in the pool

Congratulations to Bianca Harrison and Cooper Dawson, who recently represented NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools Swimming Championships at Homebush. Both Bianca and Copper swam really well and represented the college, diocese, and NSWCCC with pride. 

Bianca was the bronze medalist in the 200m breaststroke, with a 3-second personal best, and is now registered as the first reserve to advance to the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships. 

Bianca also placed 9th in the 100 freestyle and 8th in both the 50 breaststroke and 100 breaststroke. 

Cooper finished 9th in his 200 fly. 

So very proud of you, Bianca and Cooper.

Girls Netball CCC 15’s

U/15’s Lismore Diocese CCC Trials

 We had a fabulous team of 11 girls chosen from the Lismore Diocese in Coffs Harbour in April this year.

We had Zoe Townsend representing MacKillop College from year 9.

The girls played 5 games over the course of the day with a few wins and losses. Zoe was a standout in WA and C, showing an incredible strength and growth from even last year's CCC trials.

Zoe made the Possible and Probables, just missing out on the CCC NSW Netball U15's team.

We are so proud of how far she has come and look forward to next year's trial.

Thank you to the Townsend family, who helped bring equipment to and from Sydney, and a big thank you to our parents, who came and supported the girls. 

Amy Ryals - Manager

Under 18’s CCC Netball Team

This team of 10 young women showed immediate strength from their first training session.

Claire Pieren (Yr 12) and Lane Jordan (Yr 11) represented MacKillop College in the Lismore Diocese team.

Both girls showed versatility and perseverance on the day.

We had 5 games during the day with a loss by 2 points to Maitland/Newcastle, a draw against both Parramatta and Sydney, a loss by 1 to Wollongong, and a win against Armidale.

Claire Pieren was chosen for the Possible and Probables, the top 20 girls out of 120 trialling. It was such a close call in the end, the selectors saying their choice was so close it was a hard decision.

Both girls played some of the best netball I have seen them play.

Thank you to the Pieren and Jordan families, who helped support and take equipment to and from Sydney.

Amy Ryals - Coach

Surfing at the Surfest Mutual Bank High School Teams Challenge

Wild weather didn’t stop the action at this year’s Surfest Mutual Bank High School Teams Challenge, held at Bar Beach in Newcastle. Many talented young surfers from across NSW braved the challenging conditions across two days of competition. The competition opened with beautiful weather and small surf; however, this was quickly replaced by howling winds and rain and a massive increase in swell. Our surfers, undeterred, made the most of the abysmal conditions with great tactical wave choice and excellent teamwork. The Mackillop teams placed 7th, 10th, and 14th out of a total of 64 teams.

Harry Hudson, Patrick Field, Peter Field, Angus Oakshott, Joey Thompson, Oscar Conway, Samuel Ramke, Joey Buckley, Harry Stephens, Max Schneider. MVP: Harry Stephens

Adam O’Brien & Luke McDonald - Coaches

Representative Sport, Upcoming Events and Registration 2025

All registrations for MacKillop College Representative Sport teams are completed by;

1. Logging into COMPASS (Chrome browser).
2. Click on the Star button 
3. Click on the Sport - Representative link
4. Click on the relevant sport and fill out the google form.

 Students will be notified through the morning notices of when to sign up and when trials will occur.

Sports currently open for registration are;

• Junior & Intermediate Basketball teams (Boys & Girls)

** NOTE: To register for the Diocesan Trials students need to complete the forms that can be found on the Lismore Diocesan Sport page. Click on the REGISTRATION tab.

 Upcoming MacKillop College Events 2025

Lismore Diocesan Events and Registration - 2025

NSWCCC & NSW All Schools Sporting Representation

Families with students who wish to nominate for trialling in a sport at the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC) level should make themselves familiar with the Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) Sport website https://csnsw.sport/.  Parents/carers will need to create an account to be able to register their child.  Once a parent registers their child to attend an event on the CSNSW Sport portal it will send the registration to me for College approval to attend the event. 

Some sports allow students to register directly through the CSNSW Sport portal without having to go through the Diocesan Pathway. E.g. Individual Triathlon. In other instances, students will be required to travel to a Diocesan trial and if selected continue to the NSWCCC selection trials and communications for these teams will be sent through our Sports Desk.  

Please be prepared to travel if your child is accepted.  Parents have the responsibility to register their child on the NSWCCC portal, please make note of the registration closing dates based on the calendar on the CSNSW Sport website.

NSWCCC CALENDAR 2025

All individual sports registrations are completed on the CSNSW.SPORT website. The parent must have an account and add their child to have access. (Sport Registration HELP available on sport info page) SEE BELOW sports open for registration.

For further information, go to the CSNSW Sport website Sport pages. https://csnsw.sport

Students MUST be registered for the event with parent and Principal or Leader of Sport approval.

Registration is through the CSNSW.sport portal.

Details on how to register – Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations >>. 

Please note all close dates are firm dates. No registrations will be permitted after the close dates.

NSW All Schools - Events

The selection for these events are a result of the NSWCCC events.

Community Sport

If your child has achieved outstanding sporting results in their community sport, we would love to hear about it. Please email myself, or your child’s respective Leader of Pastoral Care, so we can acknowledge these achievements.  

If you have any questions regarding sport at MacKillop College, please do not hesitate to contact me either by email or phone at the College.

Erin Denham (Leader of Representative Sport)

Canteen

ATTENTION ALL QKR USERS

The cut-off time is 8.00am SHARP. Any orders placed after 8.00am will default to the next day.

If you miss the cut-off or make a mistake with your order, you MUST call the school immediately or have your child go directly to see the canteen managers.

To order from the canteen:

1. Orders can be written out at the canteen (bags supplied free of charge).

2. Orders can be written out at home and handed in at the canteen.

3. Download the Qkr! app and order online.

Attention all QKR users!

Cut-off time is 8.00 am.

Any orders placed after 8.00 am default to the following day. It is very time-consuming for canteen staff to have to check all late orders every day and then contact parents about their order. 

If you make a mistake, please call the office or send your child to the canteen.

There have also been new gluten-free items added to the menu.

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Information Links for School Bus Services 2025

1. Timetable information - busways.com.au or transportnsw.info
2. School bus travel pass - School Student Travel Scheme