-
-
(03) 5421 1200
-
Prayer
Dear God of Mercy,
we pray this day for all souls,
both known and unknown to us,
who, although touched by death,
have not yet entered Your Heavenly Kingdom.
While they loved you in their lifetime,
they failed in some way to attain the perfection Heaven demands.
So in our love for them, we offer our prayers,
our small works of mercy in the hope that Your mercy will flow to them
and bring them to eternal peace with You.
May they intercede for us, who continue on life’s journey,
for the graces we may need to live out our life on earth
in perfection and obedience and love of You, our Father,
so that we, too, may join with them in everlasting life with You in Heaven.
May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.
Amen
This week’s prayer calls to mind the important Church dates of this weekend and particularly All Souls Day (November 1) and All Saints Day (November 2). As a community, we pray for all those we have loved, and that we have lost, as well as those in the community who have been left alone or lonely by the passing of loved ones.
SHC Junior School Showcase
As is abundantly clear by the myriad of photos in this edition (and by the hundreds of cars parked around the College last evening), last night’s 2025 SHC Junior School Showcase was another outstanding success. Across Year 7, 8 and 9, it was extraordinary to see the creativity, attention to detail and determination in each student’s work. It was a privilege to be able to talk with so many students about the inspiration for their project, how they had brought it to fruition and, especially, how the project had given them special time with a parent, grandparent or family friend.
As both Principal and as a Year 9 parents, congratulations to each and every one of our Junior School students for your amazing accomplishments that were showcased last night.
Melbourne Cup Long Weekend Arrangements
Aside from students and staff involved in VCAA exams next Monday and Wednesday, the College will be closed until next Thursday 6 November 2025. I wish anyone who is heading away a gentle and restful long weekend.
VCAA Examinations
As I type this article, students across Victoria (and here at SHC) are undertaking the VCAA Psychology exam, an endeavour that follows the commencement of examinations for most Unit 3-4 students on Tuesday with the English exam. Our thoughts are with all students at this stress-filled time and wish them well in the knowledge that many, many hours of hard work across this year will be realised.
Roadworks in High Street
Sacred Heart College has been advised by Macedon Ranges Shire Council that roadworks will be undertaken over the next three weeks at the intersection of High St and New St (just on the town side of High St). These roadworks will focus on improving the pedestrian accessibility into the town and safety across the intersection. As a result, New St will be closed at High St from Thursday 6 November until Thursday 20 November.
College Tuition Fees 2026
Sacred Heart College is planning to write to all families next month confirming school fees for the 2026 school year. Although I am unable to specify the actual increases expected for 2026, we anticipate that this increase will be higher than recent years. Employers and Catholic school staff across Victoria are currently involved in a process to confirm the next industrial agreement for our school system. All Victorian Catholic school employers (including Mercy Education) will be subject to the results of this negotiation.
Although a timeline for the process is not confirmed, it is expected that teachers and Catholic school staff more generally will receive significant salary increases. This reflects the relatively modest increases in the last industrial agreement.
Bereavement - Your prayers are asked for the Conaglen family on the passing of Iain Bibby, grandfather of William Year 10 and Alice Year 12. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Yours in Mercy,
Dr Darren Egberts
Principal
Mercy Day Mass – Mercy is a VerbLast Friday, our College came together to celebrate Mercy Day, remembering the opening of the first House of Mercy in Dublin by Catherine McAuley. This special day reminds us of the ongoing story of Mercy — one of compassion, courage, and service to others. Our Mercy Day Mass was a time to pray, give thanks, and reflect on how we can live Mercy in our own lives. We remembered the Sisters of Mercy and all those who continue their good work today. Through our gold coin donations to Mercy Works, we helped support people and communities in need both in Australia and overseas. It was a good reminder that Mercy is a verb and something that we 'do.' The Eucharist is the heart of our Catholic faith. When we gather for Mass, we come together as a community to pray, listen, and give thanks. These times are sacred and ask for our respect, attention, and participation. The way we behave at Mass shows our faith and care for one another. By listening, joining in, and showing reverence, we help create a space where everyone can feel the presence of God. After Mass, students shared donuts together in their year-level areas as a small way of living out the spirit of hospitality that Catherine McAuley valued so deeply. Mercy Day reminds us that to 'do' Mercy is to be respectful, compassionate, and to serve others. |
Bus Travel - Government Buses/Private Buses
If your child is no longer using the school bus, or will not require the use of the bus in 2026 to travel to school, can you please fill out the form below to cancel your seat. If you have any queries please contact the Bus Coordinator, Melinda Plumb, via email mplumb@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au
School Fees – Finance
School fees are due to be finalised by the 30 November 2025 or unless alternative arrangements have been made.
If you are experiencing financial difficulty, please contact accountsreceivable@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au for a Confidential Concession Application.
Learning from the past not only illuminates the present but also shapes a better future. Last Friday, October 17, 2025, our Year 7 cohort at Sacred Heart College, Kyneton experienced this firsthand during a History incursion presented by Medieval Education and Entertainment.
The day was full of interactive learning. During Periods 2, 3, and 4, students rotated through three dynamic workshop sessions. Each class got a hands-on experience exploring the fascinating world of Ancient Roman Gladiators and life in the Ancient Roman military. Students were thrilled to sample authentic-looking armour and weapons from the era and participate in exhilarating mock battles, which cleverly substituted real combat with epic games of 'rock-scissor-paper.' In addition to Rome, the students were treated to a visual presentation that explored the history and culture of Ancient China.
The behaviour of our Year 7 students was exemplary. This fantastic educational experience was made possible through the superb behind-the-scenes organisation led by Ms Mary Ann Glynn, our Humanities Learning Area Leader. A huge thank you is also due to all the SHC supervising staff on the day, as well as the Year 7 Homeroom team and Ms Kellie Boorman our Year 7 Year Level Leader, for their incredible effort and energy, which ensured the smooth and successful running of the day.
The day was a powerful reminder that History is more than just dates and names; it’s the vital story of humanity, teaching us essential lessons about who we are.
On Tuesday 14 and Thursday 16 October, the Year 8 students went on an excursion to Scienceworks in Melbourne. We had a day of fun and interesting activities such as a display in the Lightning Theatre and gazing at the night sky in the Planetarium. This was a very interesting excursion and was for some of us a first time experience, and for all, allowed us to experience Science in a more personal and physical way.
In the lightning theatre we learnt how movement and magnets are very closely connected and how they work together to generate the electricity that keeps our modern world running. Connected to this idea of electricity we got to see an exciting display of a Tesla coil electrical light show. It was a thrilling display.
In the Planetarium, we gazed at the night sky with the eyes of the First Nations people from North-Western Victoria, we listened to the star stories told by First Nations people from the area and how they viewed the night sky. This was extremely interesting as we learnt how the stars that we look at every night are viewed by different cultures.
A big thank you to the science team for organising this event, it was a unique and interesting opportunity for both students and staff. Another big thank you to all the teachers that supervised, and the staff and volunteers of Scienceworks that helped out on the day, this would not be possible without you.
By Oscar Tate and Alex Price
Junior Debating Training Day at Ballarat
On the Friday 17 October, our Junior Debating Team of 18 went to Ballarat Grammar, accompanied by Mrs Knight and Ms Lawrence. We had a great day full of fun, debating, training and a special lunch at McDonald’s.
Overall, we won 5 out of 6 debates, with a close loss by 2 points. All of our debaters did incredibly well - we didn’t have a single score under 74. Our top performers were Olivia Howes, Olivia Norman, Patrick Sutton and Bridget Laird, who each earned 77 points!
Thank you to Mrs Knight and Ms Lawrence for their never-ending support with the debating team, and especially for taking us to Ballarat so we could gain experience with in-person debates. The training we received from adjudicators was really valuable.
Congratulations to all our debaters. I encourage you to keep debating and making our school proud.
Lastly, I’d like to say how honoured I am to be Sacred Heart College’s first Junior Public Speaking and Debating Leader. It has been a real privilege to lead our juniors this year, and I hope the next person enjoys it just as much as I did.
Together, with Sophie Dunn (our senior captain), and Mrs Knight, we have achieved great things this year, particularly with our inaugural Public Speaking and Debating Week. Our Staff vs Student debate was well attended, and in the end, the students defeated the teachers with a 1 point win, affirming that ‘Australia should implement a 4 day school week’.
Debating is surely growing. Thank you to everyone involved in our team, who made this year’s program so great.
By Matilda Matthews
What is thunderstorm asthma?
During grass pollen season people may notice an increase in asthma and hay fever. Grass pollen season also brings the chance of thunderstorm asthma.
Thunderstorm asthma is thought to be triggered by a unique combination of high grass pollen counts and a certain type of thunderstorm. For people who have asthma or hay fever this can cause severe asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breath. When a large number of people develop asthma symptoms over a short period of time, this is known as epidemic thunderstorm asthma. These epidemic thunderstorm asthma events don't happen every year but when they do, they can happen during grass pollen season, which is normally from October through December.
The College will be aware of forecast thunderstorms in the pollen season particularly on days with a HIGH or EXTREME pollen count. Students will be advised to remain indoors with doors and windows closed until the storm front has passed. On days of HIGH or EXTREME pollen counts asthma and hay fever suffers will be advised to remain indoors during recess and lunch.
Who is at risk?
Thunderstorm asthma can affect those with asthma or hay fever - especially people who experience wheezing or coughing with their hay fever. That’s why it’s important for people with asthma or hay fever to know about thunderstorm asthma and what they can do to help protect themselves during grass pollen season. Even if you don't think you have asthma or hay fever, don't ignore symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath - check with your GP.
How can I protect myself if I have asthma or hay fever?
Here are some things you can do to prepare for pollen season:
- If you've ever had asthma – talk to your GP about what you can do to help protect yourself from the risk of thunderstorm asthma this pollen season. Remember taking an asthma preventer properly and regularly is key to preventing asthma, including thunderstorm asthma.
- If you experience wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or continuing coughing then you may have asthma. It’s important you talk to your GP and get it checked out.
- If you have hay fever – see your pharmacist or GP for a hay fever treatment plan and check if you should have an asthma reliever puffer – which is available from a pharmacy without a prescription.
- If you have hay fever, and especially if you experience wheezing and coughing with your hay fever, it is important to make sure you don’t also have asthma. Speak to your GP today about whether or not you might have asthma.
And finally, where possible avoid being outside during thunderstorms from October through December – especially in the wind gusts that come before the storm. Go inside and close your doors and windows. If you have your air conditioning on, turn it onto recirculate.
If you develop asthma symptoms, follow your asthma action plan, or if you don’t have one yet, follow the four steps of asthma first aid.
Download the Vic Emergency app and set up a 'watch zone' for your location to receive advice and warnings about potential epidemic thunderstorm asthma events during the grass pollen season.
On Thursday 30 October, the Year 7 girls went to Mill Park to play in the second round of basketball. The girls came out strong, winning their first game against Thornbury. The second game was against the top team, Montmorency. The girls commenced the game hard, getting a early lead, but unfortunately Montmorency came back. The girls didn’t drop there heads and they fought hard all the way to the end. Sadly the team went down by only a point! In the final game the team showed amazing sportsmanship and were later congratulated for this. It was a pleasure coaching these girls and seeing them connect and grow as a team.
by Zara Conway
Jarlmadangah Burru Immersion – Applications Now Open for current Year 10s for 2026
Since 2009, Sacred Heart College has shared a special relationship with the Jarlmadangah Burru community in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Each year, eight students have the life-changing opportunity to walk gently and justly alongside the Jarlmadangah Burru community—immersing themselves in Country, culture, and the deep wisdom of First peoples.
The 2026 Jarlmadangah Burru Journey will take place from 28 June – 2 July 2026.
One of this year’s participants reflected:
"I still find it hard to find the words to describe the Jarlmadangah Immersion. We formed meaningful connections with both the school and Jarlmadangah community, learnt more about Country, and gained a deeper understanding of the culture in Jarlmadangah. It changed our lives in ways more than any of us could have imagined. There hasn't been a day that goes by where I haven't thought about Jarlmadagah, the relationships we've been able to create with each other and the land but also what the Country has been able to give me."
Students on the immersion plan and lead classroom activities for the local primary school, take turns cooking for the group, and share in community life and reflection. The experience forms part of our College’s enduring commitment to Mercy Justice and the work of reconciliation.
Applications are now open for current Year 10 students and will close on Thursday 14 November.
While the College continues to do everything possible to keep costs down, families should anticipate an increase, with an estimated cost of $3,500.
Families are encouraged to discuss and reflect together on this opportunity and to support their child’s application should they wish to apply. Further information will be provided to those who are shortlisted for the 2026 journey.
Kuppah Kome Year 12
On Sunday 19 October, Kuppah competed for Sacred Heart College in the School Sport Victoria State Championships.
We are proud to say that Kuppah came 3rd in the Discus event. This was remarkable given that Kuppah was in the middle of studying for his Year 12 Exams.
Well done Kuppah, what a great achievement!
Tyler Fynch Year 9
On the same day as Kuppah Kome above, Tyler Fynch competed in the 1500m and achieved first place!
Well done Tyler, once again a brilliant result.
Kate Darby (Alumni)
We would like to congratulate alumni student Kate Darby who is a Geelong Cats AFLW player for being nominated for the 2025 AFLW Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award. Kate was our College Captain in 2008. She grew up in Macedon and played her junior footy at Riddells Creek Football Netball Club.
Kate has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to building connection, inclusion and participation across the Geelong community, including her volunteer work with the Peace of Mind Foundation and Geelong Cats' community program. Congratulations and good luck, as the winner will be announced at the W Awards on 24 November.
https://play.afl/victoria/news/kate-darby-nominated-aflw-jim-stynes-community-leadership-award
Career News Website
Stay informed with the latest career newsletter and important careers updates, as well as job vacancies and apprenticeship opportunities.
Click Here
Come and Try Orienteering at the home of the Ashes!
Wednesday 5 November 6pm Salesian College Sunbury.
Awaken your sense of adventure this year: try orienteering!
It’s the versatile and exciting adventure sport where your aim is to reach all the checkpoints on a special map as quickly as you can.
We’ll explain how the maps work, what you are looking for and what you need to do.
All equipment is loaned on the night, just wear comfortable clothes and shoes to walk / jog in.
This event is part of the Twilight school workshops aimed at learning new skills, connecting with others and most of all having fun!
Registrations are accepted through:
https://events.humanitix.com/twilight-school-single-sessions
Cost: $10 + booking fee
