Newsletter 8

30 May 2025

Prayer

Loving God, we thank you for the First Peoples of this land. For their long history, deep culture, and care for Country. We remember that this land was taken without permission. We remember the pain caused by colonisation. The loss of land, language, family, and culture.

As a Mercy school, we want to face the truth. We know that reconciliation means more than words— it means listening, learning, and changing.

Help us to live out our Mercy values—
to show compassion to those who are hurting,
to seek justice where things are unfair,
to treat all people with respect,
to offer hospitality to those who feel left out,
to give service where there is need,
and to act with courage, even when it’s hard.

Help us to listen with open hearts, and to walk alongside First Nations people on the journey towards justice and healing. We pray that we will be people who act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with you, our God.
Amen

This week’s prayer recognises Reconciliation Week: with the theme ‘Bridging Now to Next’, it is a time to reflect and continue building momentum towards reconciliation in our schools, workplaces, and broader communities. This theme invites all Australians to learn more about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and explore how everyone can contribute to promoting reconciliation in our everyday lives - in our homes, workplaces, and social circles. These themes were highlighted in the College’s Makaratta assembly held earlier this month.

Online Enrolments

In recent days, the College has opened its online enrolment portal which is available through the College website (www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au). The portal provides a more convenient access point for parents and families looking to lodge an enrolment application form as well as details of accompanying documents required to be submitted.

A reminder to all current and prospective families that enrolment applications for Year 7 2027 (students currently in Grade 5) close on Friday 25 July 2025. Further details can be obtained by contacting the College Registrar, Ms Rowena Rokesky-Alder (rralder@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) on 54211200.

Mercy Ministry Companions Board Visit

Last week, the College was privileged to host the board of Mercy Ministry Companions (MMC). MMC reflect the broader Mercy family in Australia and New Zealand and share a commitment to infuse life with God’s mercy and to serve God and the Church through its vibrant ministries. These include Mercy Health, Mercy Education, and Mercy Community Services Australia, which includes McAuley Community Services for Women, Mercy Connect, Mercy Services and MacKillop Family Services.

Board members gathered for a liturgy in the College Chapel, morning tea and a College tour conducted by the Principal and College Captains.

Yours in Mercy,

Dr Darren Egberts

Principal

On Thursday 15 May, seven of our Year 9 students were selected to participate in the Berthe Mouchette competition. They had to learn a French poem by heart and recite it on Zoom in front of an examiner. 

The theme this year was ‘L’amour’ (Love). They all practiced multiple times during recess, and did so well on the day. Congratulations and well done to Stella Egberts, Tilly Matthews, Ella Jentsch, Ellie Norman, Koby Campbell, Lila Ely and Oscar Pereira.

This year’s Athletics Carnival was a huge success, with a noticeable boost in participation across all year levels. The energy was high, the competition fierce, and the weather couldn’t have been better, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and school spirit.

Students showed great enthusiasm across all events, cheering on their peers and representing their Houses with pride. It was fantastic to see so many getting involved and making the most of the day.  A huge shoutout to the Year 12s on their incredible costume choices this year!

Well done to everyone who participated, cheered on their friends and supported their House colours. Thank you to all staff involved for another great year.

leave-btm-vector

Earlier this week, our Year 11 students took part in a two-day Retreat at Blampied.

The Retreat Program provided a valuable opportunity to step away from the usual routines of school life and take time to reflect on who they are and who they’re becoming.

Throughout the Retreat, students engaged in a range of activities designed to spark reflection, build connection, and encourage conversations that don’t always happen in the classroom. From walking the Campaspe River to exploring future goals, from sharing meals in small groups to participating in prayer and ritual, the experience created space for students to consider what really matters to them.

A highlight for many was hearing from guest speaker Adrian Eagle, whose story of resilience, hope, and self-acceptance made a lasting impact.

A sincere thank you to all the staff who supported the Retreat so generously, giving up time away from home, being present with students across all parts of the program and stepping into the Retreat spirit with energy and care.

We hope our Year 11s returned with something to carry forward, whether that be a conversation, a new insight, or even just a clearer sense of the path ahead.

leave-btm-vector

Year 11 students from Sacred Heart College Kyneton have been part of an exciting, hands-on media project empowering students to become changemakers in youth mental health. Funded by the Murray Primary Health Network, and facilitated by Anglicare, this challenge fits seamlessly into the VCE Vocational Major curriculum, as well as building technical and communication skills.

Students researched a range of wellbeing issues including mental health, substance use, and gambling harm, preparing a range of questions before hosting podcast interviews with local youth services and lived experience speakers. The podcasts are part of the Podcast Challenge involving schools around Victoria, offering the school with the most listened to podcasts the chance to win a $2000 podcast kit.

The podcast experience is far more than just a contest; it’s a powerful opportunity for young voices to break out, promoting ‘help-seeking’ and leading the conversation on youth wellbeing. A fantastic bonus to this is the chance for them to further develop their individual skills and awareness of these important support networks and their accessibility.

Topics and guests interviewed during the podcasts included:

Richard Gabriel –speaker from Respin (focusing on experiences of gambling harm)

Janaya Wiggins – Gambler’s Help therapeutic counsellor

Adrian Rettino  – Drug and alcohol intake worker, ASCO

Peter Fountain – ACSO YORS (Youth Mental Health Outreach Worker)

Chris Pidd – Murray Primary Health Network – Suicide Prevention Project Lead

Saffron explained – “It was so interesting talking with people who have firsthand experience of these issues, I enjoyed hearing their stories and also learning how to think on the spot and signal others in my team when it was time for them to be involved in the interview.”

Liam said, “I hope the podcasts reach people who may be struggling with similar issues and provide some support and information about ways to get help.”

All in the Vocational Major team would love you to follow the link and listen to the podcasts, it’s a great way learn more about the resources available for support in the Macedon Ranges – and support the students in the Challenge.

leave-btm-vector

Senior Drama Presents - 'The Doors of Perception'  -  Thursday 5 June

Six strangers find themselves trapped in a strange hotel, each with a door that leads to a memory they'd rather forget. To leave, they'll have to face the truth - messy, painful, sometimes absurd. Secrets unravel, identities crack, and no one makes it out the same. Welcome to the Hotel - Check in is easy, but check out gets personal.

The evening will also include the Year 11 Theatre Studies and the 'DramaLlamas’ 7-11 acting group will perform new plays and play scenes.  

DramaLlamas  -  Maeve Doyle, Year 7

In DramaLlamas (Yr 7-11 Acting Group) we have been making little skits and short plays based on the theme: 'I know things are bad, but they could always get worse’. It looks at how small decisions we make one day may affect the future. We made up these short plays in groups and it's been really good to do it with my friends. I like it when we focus on one thing for the whole session, because then we can really improve it and practice it. I really like that a lot of it is improvised and we don't have to follow a script.  We can work out what it is we want to say and we can act as big as we like and that's really good for me, because I love acting.  

Ensembles Concert - Thursday 12 June  -  7pm

The Music Department presents their Ensembles Concert in the Mary Moloney Theatre at 7pm on Thursday 12 June. 

This is a celebration of what the students have been rehearsing this year.  All ensembles will be performing:

  • choir
  • guitars
  • rock bands
  • strings
  • percussion
  • show band
  • VCE 

Please come along to hear some wonderful music and support our musicians.

On 22 May, all of the Year 7 Japanese students got the amazing opportunity to learn about and play Japanese drums, or known in Japan as Taiko. We were introduced to our teachers, Ayako sensei and Shin sensei, who gave us a welcoming performance with the help of Tankovitch sensei, before teaching us the basics of Japanese drumming. 

We did multiple activities using the numbers we had learned in class, and to better understand the drums before Ayako and Shin pulled out their biggest drum for us to take turns playing. Even Twilley Sensei got in on the action! 

We finished off by singing Happy Birthday as a group to our teacher, Shin. Overall, it was a great experience to get the chance to play the drums, and therefore, we are extremely grateful.

leave-btm-vector

This term, our Year 8 students have taken the initiative to transform part of their learning environment into a more welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive space. Recognising the importance of wellbeing and a positive atmosphere, the cohort set out to create areas that support both wellbeing, community and connection.

A dedicated student committee worked collaboratively to develop ideas for a reading nook and a breakout wellbeing space. These areas were designed to offer students a calm and comfortable environment to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy a quiet moment during the school day. They can also serve as a space for students to 'reset' before entering a classroom. From brainstorming concepts to sourcing materials, the students led the project from start to finish, demonstrating impressive creativity, teamwork, and initiative. They have further plans to add some student artwork around the space.

The final touches included student-chosen posters, each featuring messages that promote kindness, resilience, inclusion, and positivity—values that resonate strongly with the Year 8 cohort. The posters not only reflect the students’ commitment to fostering a supportive and respectful school culture but also highlight their thoughtful engagement with the needs of their peers.

This project stands as a fantastic example of student voice in action and showcases the strong sense of community that defines this year group. Congratulations to all the Year 8 students involved on a job well done!

leave-btm-vector

Sacred Heart College is seeking expressions of interest from families who would be willing to host a Japanese language assistant as part of the Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language Program. The language assistant will be a Japanese university student, most likely female.

The hosting period will be for three or four weeks in August, with the language assistant working every school day for the duration of that time. Host families will be expected to assist with transport to and from school each day and provide all meals. Host families will be provided with a modest payment to assist with the cost of hosting.

This is a wonderful opportunity open to all Sacred Heart families, whether or not your child is studying Japanese. Hosting is an excellent way to open up cultural exchange from the comfort of your own home! If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, or would like more information, please contact Kim Twilley, Languages Learning Area Leader, at ktwilley@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au.

Year 7 Girls Netball - Ruby Sparrow and Minty Taylor

On Friday 23 May, the Year 7 girls represented our school at the Mickleham Division Netball Competition in Sunbury. We were lucky enough to have fielded and A and a B team, who both smashed it!

The A team won all of their games with the exception of a close loss against Wallan Secondary College, just four points short of the win. This meant that they narrowly missed the finals. The B team also won all their games with the exception of one close loss, however, still made finals! The B team played an amazing game in the final going down narrowly to Wallan Secondary College.

Overall, the day was super successful, and a great day for everyone involved.

Well done girls!

leave-btm-vector

Cross Country - Damien Zanic

The Cross Country students completed in the Mickleham Division meet held on Monday 19 May at Woodlands Park, Greenvale. with very good results throughout the day.

The event saw many students qualify for the next round.

Main place getters were:

Male 17-20yo 5km: 1st Angus Mills, 2nd Kobey Durrant

Male 16yo 5km: 2nd Tighe Thrum, 3rd Dylan Bosanko

Female 16yo 3km: 1st Ralema Kome

Female12-13yo 3km: 1st Piper Fynch, 3rd Alani Fisher

Male 14yo 3km: 1st Joseph Andrew

Female 14yo 3km: 1st Lucinda Bowen

Male 15yo 3km: 1st Tyler Fynch, 3rd Michael Brown

For those who have qualified, the NMR Round will be held on Wednesday 18 June. 

leave-btm-vector

Year 7 Boys AFL - Huon Wells

On Tuesday 20 May, the Year 7 boys' football team made the trip to Epping Recreation Reserve to play in the Mickleham Year 7 boys' division.

We started off the day with a big 118 - 0 win against Hume Grammar! The standout players for this game were Zayne, who kicked 2 goals and Lewis, who kicked a goal and had plenty of disposals through the midfield.

After the big win, the boys had more of a challenge against Edgar's Creek. The final score of this game was 102 - 1, with standout players being Pearcy, who kicked 3 goals and Harley, who kicked 2 goals from the half backline.

Overall, the day was an amazing effort from the boys, with their highlights of the day being playing footy with their mates, and the amazing ball movement.

Year 7 Girls Soccer - Kellie Boorman

In every contest they played, the Sacred Heart Girls performed flawlessly! With the exception of a very close game that ended in a 0-0 draw, they won all of them! With the ball moving up and down the pitch the entire time, it was really intense. However, the fantastic teamwork was what truly made us proud. The girls were very good at passing the ball to one another, supporting one another, and never giving up. They supported one another and collaborated as a real unit.

We're happy to let everyone know that Sacred Heart Girls have risen to the next level thanks to their dedication, camaraderie, and never-say-die mentality!

We are incredibly proud of everyone.

Year 7 Boys Soccer - Quinn Blanks and Austin Wigginton

The bus ride to the Soccer competition although long, gave us a great opportunity to get to know our teammates a bit better. Our captain, Rocco, led the stretches and warm ups, Aden, our manager and coach, went straight to spy on the opposition and see who we were playing. Aden discussed game plans, tactics and positions, then we faced our first match against Elevation. They dominated the first half and had a couple shots which Quinn (our keeper) saved, and the defense held back many more. Late in the second half, Levi took an AMAZING run and scored. We were ecstatic!

Our second game was straight after and we were lucky we had Levi as he got his second goal almost 3 minutes in. We lost concentration briefly which was a mistake because it didn't take long for the other team to get an amazing shot, even though Quinn got a hand to it. A little while later they took another shot and it was saved only to have a rebound shot go in. We lost that game but still had time to come back, the only way to do so was to win our next game by 3 nil.

Our last game was the most risky. If we had one goal scored against us we were out. The first half we dominated everything and had shot after shot, all unsuccessful. In the second half we again dominated but we couldn't score. Rocco, our noble captain, crossed the ball in, it curved in the air and Sid headed the ball, it hit the bottom of the cross bar and went in. We were over the moon!

We narrowly missed out of the final by one goal difference, although we knew we’d given it a shot. Next year we know that we can make it to the next stage and progress further.

All Year 11 students attended the annual Tomorrow Bound Careers Expo as part of their ongoing Careers and Pathways planning. This event is an education, training and careers expo that highlights the range of exciting courses, pathways, and employment opportunities available throughout the City of Greater Bendigo and beyond. 

Students were able to talk to employers, apprenticeship organisations and higher education providers. There were a wide range of informative and interactive stands designed to both engage and inspire the students. Below is an email received from students regarding how beneficial they found the event:

“Hello Ms Wheeler and Ms Delaney,

We all wanted to thank you so much for a great day at the careers expo, we can tell how much planning would have gone into that!

We all agree that today was so helpful in giving us guidance on the future, and allowing us to get questions answered. This is an amazing opportunity for the Year 11s to think about their career and we think it’s awesome to see the support you guys are giving us.

Thanks so much, it’s greatly appreciated!”

Holly, Bethany, Lily, Jo, Sae, Charlotte, Kate and Carrie

leave-btm-vector

Our Year 12 PE students experienced an incursion with Luke from METS Performance. Luke is a Sport Scientist who was able to bring his state-of-the-art Sports Science equipment into School. Isaac got to experience a VO2 max test and Noah experienced a 30 Second Wingate test. These tests brought our theory to life and consolidated all Area of Study 2 content for the students. 

It was a great opportunity to see how the theory they learn in the classroom is used with real athletes in the high-performance world. The Year 12 PE students loved the experience and now have a better understanding of acute responses to exercise, energy systems and fatigue and recovery.

Influenza B and COVID 19

There have been several confirmed cases of Influenza B and COVID 19 within the College.

Both are contagious viral infections that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications, including pneumonia. Both viruses spread by contact with fluids from coughs and sneezes.

The common symptoms are fever, a dry cough, body aches, feeling extremely weak and tired, sore throat and a runny or stuffy nose.

As these viruses are highly contagious, the College is taking every precaution to prevent further spread of the infections. If your child is unwell and/or showing flu/COVID like symptoms at school, they will be isolated and parents/emergency contacts will be called to collect them. We ask for your cooperation in keeping your child home if they are unwell and showing flu/COVID like symptoms.

The best defences against these viral infections are practising good hand hygiene, being up to date with available vaccinations and isolating if suspected or symptomatic of influenza or COVID.

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jalna Holmes, Health Centre Coordinator, on 54211200.

Free Meningococcal ACWY Immunisation for Year 10 Students

Year 10 students are eligible for a free Meningococcal ACWY vaccine as part of the National Immunisation Program. The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine protects adolescents from four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y), which can cause serious infections like meningitis and sepsis. This vaccine is provided through the Secondary School Immunisation Program and will be administered by nurse immunisers from Macedon Ranges Shire Council at school.

Parent/Guardian Consent is Required
To ensure your child receives this important vaccine, you must complete the consent section via the Central Immunisation Records Victoria (CIRV) portal. Consent can be yes or no—if you do not wish for your child to receive the vaccine, please decline online through CIRV.

📅 Immunisation Date: Tuesday 1 July 2025

🔗 Submit your consent here: CIRV Portal - https://portal.cirv.vic.gov.au//PrivacyCollection/?id=f3990ef4-04a3-ef11-8a6a-6045bd3f09a6&Year10

🗓 Deadline for consent: Thursday 26 June 2025

For more details about Meningococcal disease and the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine, visit: Australian Government Health Website

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jalna Holmes, Health Centre Coordinator, on 54211200.

Thomas Beachey - Year 10

After only recently taking up golf, Tom is already the RSL Singles Knockout Champion at Kyneton Golf Club. At only 15 years of age, he is believed to be the youngest gold-letter event winner in the clubs history. Playing off his qualifying handicap of 22, he got a shot on every hole with the exception of the first in the final. Tom was a football player until starting lessons at the beginning of the year. Well done Tom, and we look forward to hearing of your progress in the years ahead!

Heathcare/Concession Card Holders – Camps, Sport & Excursions Fund (CSEF/School Saving Bonus) – Applications Close 4/7/25

If you have a valid Health Care Card you may be entitled to $912.00 per child

Camp, Sport & Excursion Fund (CSEF) is a $256 payment provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families with the cost of camps, excursions and sporting funds. To be eligible you will need to hold a means tested concession card or you are a temporary foster parent. Should your application be successful the college will match the $256.00 funding. You will also receive the School Saving Bonus of $400.00 up to $1200.00 per family

Eligible parents will receive $912 Credit Per Student towards their 2025 school fees.

Click here for the Application Form

Preloved Pedlar

The Preloved Pedlar very much appreciates the support of donations from the Kyneton community. Because of this, the Pedlar is able to assist in emergencies, as well as the ongoing support of those in need. With this in mind, if you, someone you know or a neighbour needs emergency assistance, do not hesitate to call in and speak with a Day Manager at the Pedlar (136 Mollison St, Kyneton). Executive members are available on Friday or Saturday.

Newsletter 8

30 May 2025

Prayer

Loving God, we thank you for the First Peoples of this land. For their long history, deep culture, and care for Country. We remember that this land was taken without permission. We remember the pain caused by colonisation. The loss of land, language, family, and culture.

As a Mercy school, we want to face the truth. We know that reconciliation means more than words— it means listening, learning, and changing.

Help us to live out our Mercy values—
to show compassion to those who are hurting,
to seek justice where things are unfair,
to treat all people with respect,
to offer hospitality to those who feel left out,
to give service where there is need,
and to act with courage, even when it’s hard.

Help us to listen with open hearts, and to walk alongside First Nations people on the journey towards justice and healing. We pray that we will be people who act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with you, our God.
Amen

This week’s prayer recognises Reconciliation Week: with the theme ‘Bridging Now to Next’, it is a time to reflect and continue building momentum towards reconciliation in our schools, workplaces, and broader communities. This theme invites all Australians to learn more about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and explore how everyone can contribute to promoting reconciliation in our everyday lives - in our homes, workplaces, and social circles. These themes were highlighted in the College’s Makaratta assembly held earlier this month.

Online Enrolments

In recent days, the College has opened its online enrolment portal which is available through the College website (www.shckyneton.catholic.edu.au). The portal provides a more convenient access point for parents and families looking to lodge an enrolment application form as well as details of accompanying documents required to be submitted.

A reminder to all current and prospective families that enrolment applications for Year 7 2027 (students currently in Grade 5) close on Friday 25 July 2025. Further details can be obtained by contacting the College Registrar, Ms Rowena Rokesky-Alder (rralder@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) on 54211200.

Mercy Ministry Companions Board Visit

Last week, the College was privileged to host the board of Mercy Ministry Companions (MMC). MMC reflect the broader Mercy family in Australia and New Zealand and share a commitment to infuse life with God’s mercy and to serve God and the Church through its vibrant ministries. These include Mercy Health, Mercy Education, and Mercy Community Services Australia, which includes McAuley Community Services for Women, Mercy Connect, Mercy Services and MacKillop Family Services.

Board members gathered for a liturgy in the College Chapel, morning tea and a College tour conducted by the Principal and College Captains.

Yours in Mercy,

Dr Darren Egberts

Principal

On Thursday 15 May, seven of our Year 9 students were selected to participate in the Berthe Mouchette competition. They had to learn a French poem by heart and recite it on Zoom in front of an examiner. 

The theme this year was ‘L’amour’ (Love). They all practiced multiple times during recess, and did so well on the day. Congratulations and well done to Stella Egberts, Tilly Matthews, Ella Jentsch, Ellie Norman, Koby Campbell, Lila Ely and Oscar Pereira.

This year’s Athletics Carnival was a huge success, with a noticeable boost in participation across all year levels. The energy was high, the competition fierce, and the weather couldn’t have been better, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and school spirit.

Students showed great enthusiasm across all events, cheering on their peers and representing their Houses with pride. It was fantastic to see so many getting involved and making the most of the day.  A huge shoutout to the Year 12s on their incredible costume choices this year!

Well done to everyone who participated, cheered on their friends and supported their House colours. Thank you to all staff involved for another great year.

leave-btm-vector

Earlier this week, our Year 11 students took part in a two-day Retreat at Blampied.

The Retreat Program provided a valuable opportunity to step away from the usual routines of school life and take time to reflect on who they are and who they’re becoming.

Throughout the Retreat, students engaged in a range of activities designed to spark reflection, build connection, and encourage conversations that don’t always happen in the classroom. From walking the Campaspe River to exploring future goals, from sharing meals in small groups to participating in prayer and ritual, the experience created space for students to consider what really matters to them.

A highlight for many was hearing from guest speaker Adrian Eagle, whose story of resilience, hope, and self-acceptance made a lasting impact.

A sincere thank you to all the staff who supported the Retreat so generously, giving up time away from home, being present with students across all parts of the program and stepping into the Retreat spirit with energy and care.

We hope our Year 11s returned with something to carry forward, whether that be a conversation, a new insight, or even just a clearer sense of the path ahead.

leave-btm-vector

Year 11 students from Sacred Heart College Kyneton have been part of an exciting, hands-on media project empowering students to become changemakers in youth mental health. Funded by the Murray Primary Health Network, and facilitated by Anglicare, this challenge fits seamlessly into the VCE Vocational Major curriculum, as well as building technical and communication skills.

Students researched a range of wellbeing issues including mental health, substance use, and gambling harm, preparing a range of questions before hosting podcast interviews with local youth services and lived experience speakers. The podcasts are part of the Podcast Challenge involving schools around Victoria, offering the school with the most listened to podcasts the chance to win a $2000 podcast kit.

The podcast experience is far more than just a contest; it’s a powerful opportunity for young voices to break out, promoting ‘help-seeking’ and leading the conversation on youth wellbeing. A fantastic bonus to this is the chance for them to further develop their individual skills and awareness of these important support networks and their accessibility.

Topics and guests interviewed during the podcasts included:

Richard Gabriel –speaker from Respin (focusing on experiences of gambling harm)

Janaya Wiggins – Gambler’s Help therapeutic counsellor

Adrian Rettino  – Drug and alcohol intake worker, ASCO

Peter Fountain – ACSO YORS (Youth Mental Health Outreach Worker)

Chris Pidd – Murray Primary Health Network – Suicide Prevention Project Lead

Saffron explained – “It was so interesting talking with people who have firsthand experience of these issues, I enjoyed hearing their stories and also learning how to think on the spot and signal others in my team when it was time for them to be involved in the interview.”

Liam said, “I hope the podcasts reach people who may be struggling with similar issues and provide some support and information about ways to get help.”

All in the Vocational Major team would love you to follow the link and listen to the podcasts, it’s a great way learn more about the resources available for support in the Macedon Ranges – and support the students in the Challenge.

leave-btm-vector

Senior Drama Presents - 'The Doors of Perception'  -  Thursday 5 June

Six strangers find themselves trapped in a strange hotel, each with a door that leads to a memory they'd rather forget. To leave, they'll have to face the truth - messy, painful, sometimes absurd. Secrets unravel, identities crack, and no one makes it out the same. Welcome to the Hotel - Check in is easy, but check out gets personal.

The evening will also include the Year 11 Theatre Studies and the 'DramaLlamas’ 7-11 acting group will perform new plays and play scenes.  

DramaLlamas  -  Maeve Doyle, Year 7

In DramaLlamas (Yr 7-11 Acting Group) we have been making little skits and short plays based on the theme: 'I know things are bad, but they could always get worse’. It looks at how small decisions we make one day may affect the future. We made up these short plays in groups and it's been really good to do it with my friends. I like it when we focus on one thing for the whole session, because then we can really improve it and practice it. I really like that a lot of it is improvised and we don't have to follow a script.  We can work out what it is we want to say and we can act as big as we like and that's really good for me, because I love acting.  

Ensembles Concert - Thursday 12 June  -  7pm

The Music Department presents their Ensembles Concert in the Mary Moloney Theatre at 7pm on Thursday 12 June. 

This is a celebration of what the students have been rehearsing this year.  All ensembles will be performing:

  • choir
  • guitars
  • rock bands
  • strings
  • percussion
  • show band
  • VCE 

Please come along to hear some wonderful music and support our musicians.

On 22 May, all of the Year 7 Japanese students got the amazing opportunity to learn about and play Japanese drums, or known in Japan as Taiko. We were introduced to our teachers, Ayako sensei and Shin sensei, who gave us a welcoming performance with the help of Tankovitch sensei, before teaching us the basics of Japanese drumming. 

We did multiple activities using the numbers we had learned in class, and to better understand the drums before Ayako and Shin pulled out their biggest drum for us to take turns playing. Even Twilley Sensei got in on the action! 

We finished off by singing Happy Birthday as a group to our teacher, Shin. Overall, it was a great experience to get the chance to play the drums, and therefore, we are extremely grateful.

leave-btm-vector

This term, our Year 8 students have taken the initiative to transform part of their learning environment into a more welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive space. Recognising the importance of wellbeing and a positive atmosphere, the cohort set out to create areas that support both wellbeing, community and connection.

A dedicated student committee worked collaboratively to develop ideas for a reading nook and a breakout wellbeing space. These areas were designed to offer students a calm and comfortable environment to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy a quiet moment during the school day. They can also serve as a space for students to 'reset' before entering a classroom. From brainstorming concepts to sourcing materials, the students led the project from start to finish, demonstrating impressive creativity, teamwork, and initiative. They have further plans to add some student artwork around the space.

The final touches included student-chosen posters, each featuring messages that promote kindness, resilience, inclusion, and positivity—values that resonate strongly with the Year 8 cohort. The posters not only reflect the students’ commitment to fostering a supportive and respectful school culture but also highlight their thoughtful engagement with the needs of their peers.

This project stands as a fantastic example of student voice in action and showcases the strong sense of community that defines this year group. Congratulations to all the Year 8 students involved on a job well done!

leave-btm-vector

Sacred Heart College is seeking expressions of interest from families who would be willing to host a Japanese language assistant as part of the Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language Program. The language assistant will be a Japanese university student, most likely female.

The hosting period will be for three or four weeks in August, with the language assistant working every school day for the duration of that time. Host families will be expected to assist with transport to and from school each day and provide all meals. Host families will be provided with a modest payment to assist with the cost of hosting.

This is a wonderful opportunity open to all Sacred Heart families, whether or not your child is studying Japanese. Hosting is an excellent way to open up cultural exchange from the comfort of your own home! If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, or would like more information, please contact Kim Twilley, Languages Learning Area Leader, at ktwilley@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au.

Year 7 Girls Netball - Ruby Sparrow and Minty Taylor

On Friday 23 May, the Year 7 girls represented our school at the Mickleham Division Netball Competition in Sunbury. We were lucky enough to have fielded and A and a B team, who both smashed it!

The A team won all of their games with the exception of a close loss against Wallan Secondary College, just four points short of the win. This meant that they narrowly missed the finals. The B team also won all their games with the exception of one close loss, however, still made finals! The B team played an amazing game in the final going down narrowly to Wallan Secondary College.

Overall, the day was super successful, and a great day for everyone involved.

Well done girls!

leave-btm-vector

Cross Country - Damien Zanic

The Cross Country students completed in the Mickleham Division meet held on Monday 19 May at Woodlands Park, Greenvale. with very good results throughout the day.

The event saw many students qualify for the next round.

Main place getters were:

Male 17-20yo 5km: 1st Angus Mills, 2nd Kobey Durrant

Male 16yo 5km: 2nd Tighe Thrum, 3rd Dylan Bosanko

Female 16yo 3km: 1st Ralema Kome

Female12-13yo 3km: 1st Piper Fynch, 3rd Alani Fisher

Male 14yo 3km: 1st Joseph Andrew

Female 14yo 3km: 1st Lucinda Bowen

Male 15yo 3km: 1st Tyler Fynch, 3rd Michael Brown

For those who have qualified, the NMR Round will be held on Wednesday 18 June. 

leave-btm-vector

Year 7 Boys AFL - Huon Wells

On Tuesday 20 May, the Year 7 boys' football team made the trip to Epping Recreation Reserve to play in the Mickleham Year 7 boys' division.

We started off the day with a big 118 - 0 win against Hume Grammar! The standout players for this game were Zayne, who kicked 2 goals and Lewis, who kicked a goal and had plenty of disposals through the midfield.

After the big win, the boys had more of a challenge against Edgar's Creek. The final score of this game was 102 - 1, with standout players being Pearcy, who kicked 3 goals and Harley, who kicked 2 goals from the half backline.

Overall, the day was an amazing effort from the boys, with their highlights of the day being playing footy with their mates, and the amazing ball movement.

Year 7 Girls Soccer - Kellie Boorman

In every contest they played, the Sacred Heart Girls performed flawlessly! With the exception of a very close game that ended in a 0-0 draw, they won all of them! With the ball moving up and down the pitch the entire time, it was really intense. However, the fantastic teamwork was what truly made us proud. The girls were very good at passing the ball to one another, supporting one another, and never giving up. They supported one another and collaborated as a real unit.

We're happy to let everyone know that Sacred Heart Girls have risen to the next level thanks to their dedication, camaraderie, and never-say-die mentality!

We are incredibly proud of everyone.

Year 7 Boys Soccer - Quinn Blanks and Austin Wigginton

The bus ride to the Soccer competition although long, gave us a great opportunity to get to know our teammates a bit better. Our captain, Rocco, led the stretches and warm ups, Aden, our manager and coach, went straight to spy on the opposition and see who we were playing. Aden discussed game plans, tactics and positions, then we faced our first match against Elevation. They dominated the first half and had a couple shots which Quinn (our keeper) saved, and the defense held back many more. Late in the second half, Levi took an AMAZING run and scored. We were ecstatic!

Our second game was straight after and we were lucky we had Levi as he got his second goal almost 3 minutes in. We lost concentration briefly which was a mistake because it didn't take long for the other team to get an amazing shot, even though Quinn got a hand to it. A little while later they took another shot and it was saved only to have a rebound shot go in. We lost that game but still had time to come back, the only way to do so was to win our next game by 3 nil.

Our last game was the most risky. If we had one goal scored against us we were out. The first half we dominated everything and had shot after shot, all unsuccessful. In the second half we again dominated but we couldn't score. Rocco, our noble captain, crossed the ball in, it curved in the air and Sid headed the ball, it hit the bottom of the cross bar and went in. We were over the moon!

We narrowly missed out of the final by one goal difference, although we knew we’d given it a shot. Next year we know that we can make it to the next stage and progress further.

All Year 11 students attended the annual Tomorrow Bound Careers Expo as part of their ongoing Careers and Pathways planning. This event is an education, training and careers expo that highlights the range of exciting courses, pathways, and employment opportunities available throughout the City of Greater Bendigo and beyond. 

Students were able to talk to employers, apprenticeship organisations and higher education providers. There were a wide range of informative and interactive stands designed to both engage and inspire the students. Below is an email received from students regarding how beneficial they found the event:

“Hello Ms Wheeler and Ms Delaney,

We all wanted to thank you so much for a great day at the careers expo, we can tell how much planning would have gone into that!

We all agree that today was so helpful in giving us guidance on the future, and allowing us to get questions answered. This is an amazing opportunity for the Year 11s to think about their career and we think it’s awesome to see the support you guys are giving us.

Thanks so much, it’s greatly appreciated!”

Holly, Bethany, Lily, Jo, Sae, Charlotte, Kate and Carrie

leave-btm-vector

Our Year 12 PE students experienced an incursion with Luke from METS Performance. Luke is a Sport Scientist who was able to bring his state-of-the-art Sports Science equipment into School. Isaac got to experience a VO2 max test and Noah experienced a 30 Second Wingate test. These tests brought our theory to life and consolidated all Area of Study 2 content for the students. 

It was a great opportunity to see how the theory they learn in the classroom is used with real athletes in the high-performance world. The Year 12 PE students loved the experience and now have a better understanding of acute responses to exercise, energy systems and fatigue and recovery.

Influenza B and COVID 19

There have been several confirmed cases of Influenza B and COVID 19 within the College.

Both are contagious viral infections that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications, including pneumonia. Both viruses spread by contact with fluids from coughs and sneezes.

The common symptoms are fever, a dry cough, body aches, feeling extremely weak and tired, sore throat and a runny or stuffy nose.

As these viruses are highly contagious, the College is taking every precaution to prevent further spread of the infections. If your child is unwell and/or showing flu/COVID like symptoms at school, they will be isolated and parents/emergency contacts will be called to collect them. We ask for your cooperation in keeping your child home if they are unwell and showing flu/COVID like symptoms.

The best defences against these viral infections are practising good hand hygiene, being up to date with available vaccinations and isolating if suspected or symptomatic of influenza or COVID.

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jalna Holmes, Health Centre Coordinator, on 54211200.

Free Meningococcal ACWY Immunisation for Year 10 Students

Year 10 students are eligible for a free Meningococcal ACWY vaccine as part of the National Immunisation Program. The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine protects adolescents from four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y), which can cause serious infections like meningitis and sepsis. This vaccine is provided through the Secondary School Immunisation Program and will be administered by nurse immunisers from Macedon Ranges Shire Council at school.

Parent/Guardian Consent is Required
To ensure your child receives this important vaccine, you must complete the consent section via the Central Immunisation Records Victoria (CIRV) portal. Consent can be yes or no—if you do not wish for your child to receive the vaccine, please decline online through CIRV.

📅 Immunisation Date: Tuesday 1 July 2025

🔗 Submit your consent here: CIRV Portal - https://portal.cirv.vic.gov.au//PrivacyCollection/?id=f3990ef4-04a3-ef11-8a6a-6045bd3f09a6&Year10

🗓 Deadline for consent: Thursday 26 June 2025

For more details about Meningococcal disease and the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine, visit: Australian Government Health Website

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jalna Holmes, Health Centre Coordinator, on 54211200.

Thomas Beachey - Year 10

After only recently taking up golf, Tom is already the RSL Singles Knockout Champion at Kyneton Golf Club. At only 15 years of age, he is believed to be the youngest gold-letter event winner in the clubs history. Playing off his qualifying handicap of 22, he got a shot on every hole with the exception of the first in the final. Tom was a football player until starting lessons at the beginning of the year. Well done Tom, and we look forward to hearing of your progress in the years ahead!

Heathcare/Concession Card Holders – Camps, Sport & Excursions Fund (CSEF/School Saving Bonus) – Applications Close 4/7/25

If you have a valid Health Care Card you may be entitled to $912.00 per child

Camp, Sport & Excursion Fund (CSEF) is a $256 payment provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families with the cost of camps, excursions and sporting funds. To be eligible you will need to hold a means tested concession card or you are a temporary foster parent. Should your application be successful the college will match the $256.00 funding. You will also receive the School Saving Bonus of $400.00 up to $1200.00 per family

Eligible parents will receive $912 Credit Per Student towards their 2025 school fees.

Click here for the Application Form

Preloved Pedlar

The Preloved Pedlar very much appreciates the support of donations from the Kyneton community. Because of this, the Pedlar is able to assist in emergencies, as well as the ongoing support of those in need. With this in mind, if you, someone you know or a neighbour needs emergency assistance, do not hesitate to call in and speak with a Day Manager at the Pedlar (136 Mollison St, Kyneton). Executive members are available on Friday or Saturday.