Season’s greetings and heartfelt thanks to the extended Waverley College community. Your support throughout the year has been invaluable in helping us realise goals for the campus, provide scholarships for students and enhance teaching and learning at the College.
2019 saw the establishment of the Waverley College Foundation and 2020 will be an exciting time of engagement, development and building for a successful future.
The HSC Presiding Officer for Waverley College, Col Blake, is seeking to employ supervisors to assist at exams in this year’s Higher School Certificate examinations at the College.
Any parents of students at the College who may be interested should contact him for more details. The positions are paid by NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority) on an hourly basis. Any parent of any student sitting any exam in this year’s HSC cannot apply.
Exams commence on Monday 15 October and finish on Tuesday 6 November. Extra supervisors will be needed for the exams with a larger number of students. Training will be given prior the first exam on 15 October.
If you are interested please contact Col Blake via email (cblake@waverley.nsw.edu.au) with name, phone and email details before 18 September 2017.
From the early 1940s, lunch and afternoon tea for players and guests at Waverley’s home ground at Queens Park was organised by Tom and Midge Hayes. Tom, a local Bondi butcher, would cook the barbeque for the 1st XI during cricket season and Midge organised the Mothers’ Committee to provide food and refreshments. Additionally, Midge would oversee special functions held by the school community. Her infamous homemade custard pies inspired the 1st XV’s victory song, which is still sung today.
At the Old Boys’ Union dinner in late 1938 it was announced that a pavilion fund would be established to build facilities at Queens Park “in order to improve and complete the fields in a manner worthy of the College” (The Waverlian, 1938). However, fundraising took longer than anticipated as efforts were instead directed towards a comfort fund to purchase provisions for Old Boy servicemen overseas, and thereafter towards commemorating the dead, culminating in the construction of the War Memorial Chapel and Hall.
Eventually, sufficient funds were secured and in 1951 the first pavilion, Green Gables, was built. Situated under the big Moreton Bay Fig (where Tom and Midge had been operating previously), it served as a function room and as a change room for cricket and rugby. Words of gratitude pour from the pages of The Waverlian publications of the 1950s for the “sumptuous hospitality” of the affectionately named “Green Gables Girls” and Eastern Suburbs Ambulance Officers, who helped at Queens Park every Saturday.
Green Gables stood until late August 1960, when it was destroyed by vandals who burnt it down on their fourth attempt. All of the photographs and trophies therein were lost and the arsonists were never caught.
Construction of a new pavilion began immediately, designed by architect Neville Anderson and built by Geoffrey McCabe who were both Waverley Old Boys. Now situated on the southern hillside of the park, directly opposite the Fig tree, the building was completed in 1962 for a total cost of £23,000. It was officially opened by Mr Justice Hardie on 4 March and a commemorative game of cricket was held. Richie Benaud, the then Australian captain and NSW captain, brought twelve Sheffield Shield players to combine with twelve Waverley students in a celebratory match. Benaud captained one side and legendary left-arm fast bowler Alan Davidson the other.
In 1985 it was named the T&M Hayes Pavilion in honour of Tom and Midge, the ‘heart and soul’ of Waverley sport days. The couple had continued volunteering tirelessly until Tom’s death in 1985 and Midge’s relocation to Gloucester in 1988.
In 2002, Headmaster Brother Wallace commenced plans for the refurbishment of the pavilion. This included plastering the brick walls, installing new carpet, ceiling and lights and a new kitchen.
When Br. Brian Murphy began his career at the College in 1973 (Teacher, Sports Master, Queens Park Groundskeeper), the only photographs hanging in the pavilion were those of Murray Tate, Cyril Towers, John Potts, Michael Cleary and Morrie Currotta. These were scattered haphazardly on the walls in different sized frames. Murphy quickly became interested in following up other Old Boys who were of international standing, and getting these images framed and hung in a unified manner. The idea was to display old and new photographs and plaques, thereby keeping an historical record of College sporting achievements. Thus began the pavilion’s ‘Wall of Fame’.
The Wall of Fame has an impact on all new visitors to the grounds. Parents of players from visiting schools often spend a long time engaged with the photographs, sometimes finding teammates or competitors from their past. Current Waverley players are inspired – they want to see their photo up there or their name on the boards, particularly the 1st 11 Cricket Honour Board.
The Wall of Fame today represents “about 99% of all Old Boy sporting greats” (Murphy, 2018). With new photos added all the time, wall space is becoming an issue. The top row of bronze school crests, representing all competing schools, had to be taken down recently to make room for more photographs. In the past, Br. Murphy would collect and exhibit all the school neck-ties from visiting competition teams, which served to create a sense for players that they were part of something bigger. Murphy says, “I was the manager of the New South Wales Schoolboys Rugby for a long time and I used to train here and have a presentation dinner and we’d present the NSW 1sts and 2nds their ties and their playing gear. We used to ask each school to give us their school tie, so when we had the photographs surrounded by the ties it gave an idea of… there might be only 40 boys playing this year but there’s 70 or 80 schools who have represented in the past.” The ties have now also been taken down, but kept for posterity.
The playing fields too have evolved since first being levelled in 1937. Br. Murphy recalls:
“When I came the [3] fields ran in parallel, and the first Saturday I saw rugby at Waverley I was horrified because there was not that much space between the sidelines and the first day we were playing Oak Hill and I saw, between two fields, a new born baby in a pram, I saw a surfboard with the fins sticking up, and I saw a bicycle with the pedals sticking out. Any one of those three was a potential serious accident. There was hardly room for the Touch judges to do their job, so I got a tape measure and I got in the middle of this pavilion, and I measured out to see what would happen if I ran the field this way. As it turned out we’ve now got about 13 meters between that [field] and the next one. This [field] is now bigger than it used to be when it was over there, and we’ve got a bit of space. It’s been that way ever since 1973.
When I came first, those trees [to the right of the pavilion] were not there and there was a constant oozing through the bank of water, neither Council Randwick or Waverley would claim responsibility so the Centennial Part Trust planted those trees. They’re Melaleucas and they take a heck of a lot of moisture in so that flooding has never been as bad since. Recent improvements; Centennial Park have put in the stairs up there [Carrington Rd side] and the bank which had eroded away has been filled in and turfed.”
The 2017 crowd for the Rugby final Waverley vs Knox was a highlight for Murphy and Queens Park, with a record number of attendees.
Although now retired from teaching, Brother Murphy keeps strong ties with the Waverley College community, both on and off the sporting fields. Before school he can often be found greeting the students by name and with a handshake as they arrive. At the conclusion of his interview at Queens Park, Murphy, still a man of action, excused himself to dash across to the far field to assist with training.
The Waverley College Parent Association hosted their annual Welcome Drinks evening on Saturday 24 February, when the BR JP Lacey Gymnasium easily accommodated over 700 parents.
Mary Ramsay, President of the Parent Association, welcomed guests and spoke about their vision for what promises to be a busy year ahead.
During 2018 the Parent Association will aim to:
Mary also spoke about the roles of those in the Parent Association especially the tireless efforts of Patsy Thompson and Sandy Templeton, who voluntarily run the College’s clothing pool. The clothing pool is a major revenue source for the Parent Association and that money goes back into the school for projects that benefit students. Volunteers are always needed, so please contact Patsy and Sandy by phone on 02 93690703 (Monday 9am-12noon or Wednesday 2-5pm during school term) or by email at clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.au.
The Year Parent Representatives are a great point of contact for parents wanting day to day information, this can be sought on the Facebook groups set up for this purpose. Year Parent contact information is found on the Waverley College website.
Mary also thanked the 2017 Parent Association Executive, Greg Bodkin, Kathy Davies and Tina Fragias for their achievements.
The College and the Parent Association would like to acknowledge Bold Food Catering (Waverley parents), Matt Whitaker from Shorty’s Liquor (Waverley parent), old boy Nick Madunic (lighting), Sheridan Nilsson (photography) and DJ Somatik (music) for ensuring the evening was a success.
The Blue & Gold Ball, Saturday 4 August – this event was a massive hit last year with close to 700 attending. The event, held in the Br JP Lacey Gymnasium, raised just over $70,000 which was used in the “greening” of the Senior Campus as well as the much-needed refurbishment of the Junior School cricket nets. If you can help in any way for the Ball – through donation of prizes for the live and silent auction or raffle, sponsorship of the event or just volunteering your time to help set up – please register here.
Parent Education Evenings – we have access to amazing speakers such as Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, who come to the college to speak on a range of topics. Dr Carr-Gregg will be at the College on 15 March to talk about “Saying No to Bullying”.
Year Group Social Events – these will happen throughout the year. Details will be communicated via the website, your Facebook group or you will receive an email from the College.
“Making great friends along this precious journey will make your years at Waverley even more enjoyable – and support you through the tricky times should you need it.” – Mary Ramsay, President of the Waverley College Parent Assocation.
Friday 2 March marks my last day in the Development Office, after what has been a busy 18 months. I came to Waverley College from Kincoppal-Rose Bay and was instantly struck by the friendliness of Waverley College parents and old boys. These two groups are the very definition of the Edmund Rice touchstone “Inclusive Community” and I was very well supported in my role by these amazing people.
My highlights were definitely bringing back the Blue & Gold Ball after a 40 year hiatus, working with the legendary Peter Frost on the opening of the Cosgrove Centre (and securing the Governor General himself to be there!), introducing the Spirituality Evening with Director of Mission, Phil Davis and setting up the Facebook sites for the Old Boys’ Union and Year Parent Groups (online communities are invaluable to any school environment).
Blue & Gold Ball 2017
I am now in the process of lodging a scholarship fund with the ATO. A Waverley College Scholarship Fund will create opportunity – opportunity for the donor to make a difference, opportunity for the student to realise their dreams and opportunity for the community to benefit from high quality graduates who will perpetuate the great name of Waverley College. It gives those students who excel in various areas recognition for their achievements. Scholarships provide support, confidence and encouragement, keeping students motivated, helping them to remain focussed on the end goal.
I wish the Waverley College Community – students, their families and friends, staff and old boys – every success for 2018. Thank you to the Marketing & Development Team for being such a talented bunch of women to work alongside – Jennifer Divall, Robyn Moore, Agi Lebek, Terese Kielt, Venettia Miller, Julia Padoani and Tessa Holt.
Rebecca Curran
Development & Fundraising Manager
Lacey House has continued to value the contributions of individuals to the greater good of the academic, spiritual and co-curricular endeavours of our young men. We are particularly strong in Years 8 and 9. The following boys were awarded prizes on Presentation Evening.
Cade Lacey & Harrison Gippel – Award Winners
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Lewis Thompson, Luke Fadel & Ben Elder – Award Winners
Year 10
Year 11
Congratulations to all these Lacey boys on striving for excellence.
In the House Diving competition, Lacey were represented by Owen Punch, Hunter Sullivan and Leon Bakis. All the boys are currently in Year 7 and we placed second overall. We are looking to dominate this competition over the next few years so it will be a hard team to break in to. In the House Tug of War competition, we were placed in the top eight and we will be taking steps to ensure a massive improvement for next year with a greater emphasis on pre-season training and competition diet identified as key areas of possible improvement.
Lacey Legends Diving team
The House Chant competition has brought out the competitive side of the Lacey Mentor groups with strategy playing an important part in groups forming alliances and pacts to form winning combinations. Mr Frost and Ms Stewarts groups combined to take out the competition with a chant that will form the basis of a probable winner at the swimming competition early in Term 1.
House Chant Winners
The new Prefect Leadership team has quickly built on the solid foundations of the previous year’s team to establish mental health as a top priority for each House meeting. We were addressed by a local representative from the Headspace team at Bondi Junction which is an organization that provides support services to adolescents with issues around mental wellbeing. Our own morning wellbeing time has focused on delivering positive messages on kindness, inclusiveness and action plans designed to improve each boy’s wellbeing. Specific information on sleep patterns, diet and exercise have been well received by the boys. Some groups have taken the quick, intense physical start to each day to heart and planks and pushups are often part of the morning welcome.
Yr 5s voting for House Chant winner
As I walk among the various Mentor groups each morning I am struck by the growing bonds that are developing between boys across the year groups and between the Mentors and the boys. The Mentors have continued to provide the first port of call for many boys and parents and their support and encouragement of the wellbeing program has resulted in a number of important initiatives for Lacey House. Next year’s weekly program will involve the senior boys running each Tuesday morning’s session. We hope that this step will drive the model of leadership for Lacey House as the years roll on. Our boys will feel very comfortable about speaking and directing others by the time they finish school as they will have practised this every day.
Yr Ten Lacey with Sam Clear
May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas.
Term Four started off with the new House Prefects, James Bodkin, Reece Thorn, Patrick Kossenberg and Tadgh Murphy taking over the reins. O’Connor House is also very fortunate to have College Captain, Harley McGuiggan to assist the Prefects. Straight away the boys picked up from where the previous leadership team had left and displayed great enthusiasm and innovation in their new roles. I look forward to working further with them and developing more house initiatives next year.
James Bodkin, Reece Thorn, Patrick Kossenberg and Tadgh Murphy
There were a number of students selected in 1st Teams for summer Cocurricular activities, including Marco Payumo of Judo and Jeremy Petritsis of the 1st V Basketball, both being named Captains of their respective teams.
O’Connor House Assembly
Our term Assemblies were located in the PAC foyer and theatre spaces. We had guest speakers from Australian Youth Climate Coalition present to the house as a follow up session from the conference the House Prefects and SRC attended earlier in the year. A highlight of the assemblies this term was the introduction (thanks Mr New) of the House Song ‘O’Connor’s Call’ which the boys and staff enthusiastically embraced. Click on the following youtube link to view one of the passionate renditions: O’Connor’s Call
Interhouse diving competition Zygi Mann and Max Leedham
We had two House Competitions in Diving and Tug-of-war this term during lunch times. Both teams tried extremely hard and it was great to see so many kids volunteering their lunch break and showing house spirit in these events. Thanks to Zygi Mann and Max Leedham (pictured), as well as Patrick Kite for volunteering to dive for the house. Next year I hope that we can build on the strong start and excellent House Spirit and Culture we have developed through these competitions.
Interhouse Tug o’ War
Year 10 successfully completed their outward bound learning experience at Somerset Camp. The theme for the camp was ‘Stepping up, Stepping out’ and it was overwhelming to see the cohort take this on board with each activity. Students managed to step up into leadership and step out of their comfort zone, lessons we hope for the cohort to take into their senior years. Year 10 finished the year with two Reflection Days which consisted of activities from WALK4ONE, Sydney Jewish Museum and various guest speakers at the College. Congratulations must go to year 10 students for the mature and focused way they approached the reflection days. It was a great way to end the year for this cohort who continue to show their exceptional potential as our college leaders for the future years.
O’Connor Year 10 students with Sam Clear, WALK4ONE
The Year 12 students attended Retreat at St Benedict’s, Gross Vale with Aungier House. The boys were very fortunate as the venues facilities and accommodation was 1st class. It was a great opportunity for the students to take stock, reflect on the various aspects of life and help formulate goals and plans moving forward into their HSC year.
Year 12 retreat
Junior School students also had a busy term that included the Year 5 Camp to Vision Valley, Walkathon for various charities, Music Festival, Year 7 Orientation Day and the Year 6 Graduation.
Congratulations to the following students from O’Connor that received a 1st in subject award or a major award at Presentation Night; well done on a great semester:
A massive thank you to all House Mentors for their efforts, care and professionalism throughout the term. The boys are very fortunate to have you looking after their wellbeing and development as young men.
I would finally like to thank everyone for their hard work and efforts this year and wish you all a safe, relaxing and enjoyable Christmas break.
Tevlin House has enjoyed a fantastic fourth term for 2017, packed full of challenge, achievement and a large social justice role in learning about and wanting to demonstrate support for homelessness. Tevlin students and their mentor teachers can go into the summer break proud of their achievements, and optimistically awaiting many great opportunities next year.
This term, Tevlin boys have learned about, discussed and then actively engaged with homelessness issues in its coordination of Waverley’s annual appeal for the Matthew Talbot Hostel. Tevlin students were fortunate to hear at their House Assembly from Mr Paul Longobardi from the St Vincent DePaul Society. One important service of Vinnies is the Matthew Talbot Hostel, located in Woolloomooloo and other Australian locations and provides accommodation, food, health, counselling and employment support for thousands of men each year who are experiencing homelessness or other difficulties. Boys were challenged to better understand the different types and factors involved with homelessness, and realise all people’s desire to have dignity in their lives. Boys left this experience feeling motivated towards helping this year’s Matthew Talbot Appeal become highly successful.
Tevlin developing compassion for the homeless
The Tevlin students then spent three weeks in November not only donating important toiletry, clothing and other necessary items, but led weekly visits to the other house groups to share the importance of supporting homeless charities like the Mathew Talbot Hostel. All of the Waverley Community can be very proud, as donations reached one tonne of items and 50 large sacks were delivered to the hostel this week, ready for distribution to homeless men in Sydney.
All of Tevlin House enjoyed a fantastic rooftop BBQ at the final house assembly last week, hosted by the Year 12 students and prefects. The views and bacon and egg rolls were amazing, and students had a chance to enjoy celebrating the end to a fantastic Matthew Talbot Appeal.
Tevlin students have also gratefully thanked each of their mentor teachers for the support and care they have provided throughout the year. In particular, we thank our two departing mentors, Mr Barbour and Mr Kingsley, for their amazing energy and the supportive manner in which they have made significant contributions to their groups and Waverley’s wellbeing program. We wish both of these outstanding role models and talented science teachers the very best in their future.
Tevlin finished first overall in the Junior School House Sports and Colour Comp, while also in the top four of Senior School Houses. Tevlin were crowned the tug-o-war champions at a very competitive house assembly, and represented with gusto in the finals. Charlie Tindale was the star of the house diving finals, coming equal first with a couple of big-scoring dives. We had an inspiring a top five finish overall for the men in yellow caps.
Charlie Tindale somersaulting to House diving victory
Congratulations to all students across all year levels for the effort they have put into their learning, improving their skills and academic results. The following Senior School boys were awarded prizes in this week’s Presentation Evenings:
Year 7
Year 8 – First in Subject Awards
Year 9 – First in Subject Awards
Year 10 – First in Subject Awards
Year 11 – First in Subject Awards
2017 Academic prefect Dylan Quirk has had his HSC major work “Nature’s Embodiment” marked so highly that is has been selected as part of the Art Express HSC showcase. This series of four photographs included stunning scenes of nature’s fire, air, earth and water – each including Dylan himself transformed through body paint into these elements of nature.
Dylan Quirk’s Nature’s Embodiment HSC in Art Express
Yr 10 relax at day’s end
Year 10 students took part in an outdoor education camp with Camp Somerset on the Colo River. They tackled a series of physical challenges which they overcame by team work and perseverance. These valuable experiences serve as great memories and milestones to take on fresh challenges for their future.
Handmade pizza on Year 10 Camp
On their return, Year 10 also enjoyed two spirituality days, where they were highly engaged and active in considering the complexities of the world around them. This included an excursion to the Sydney Jewish Museum with a moving account from a Holocaust Survivor named Eddie. The trip also included a social justice seminar focussed on refugee issues and an inspiring story and workshop run by Sam Clear – using his solo walk around the world to look at the power of prayer, God and humanity.
Year 10 Tevlin students at their spirituality day with Sam Clear
A number of students have made notable contributions and had some excellent achievements including:
I wish all boys and their families a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and look forward to more rewarding experiences in 2018.
Aungier commenced the final term of 2018 with the announcement of our new student leaders. Stephen Davies, Domenic Abruzzese, Andre Vumbaca and Jasper Wilde were elected by Aungier House to lead our proud “Red” community into the new year. We look forward to tracking the fresh initiatives which these new House Prefects will no doubt bring.
Our Year 11 students had the opportunity to attend the annual Year 12 (2018) Retreat at Benedict XVI Retreat Centre, Grose Vale. The three-day experience is labelled a “retreat” as it is a time for the group to take a step back and regroup, before stepping into a very important final year of study. Aungier students were able to engage in a very meaningful experience, gaining skills to help them through some of the stressful moments that the HSC year can bring.
Year 11 students involved in meditation during the Senior Retreat
The Junior School enjoyed another busy term, with our Year 5 students attending camp at Vision Valley. The boys had a great time whilst involved in a host of activities including abseiling, archery, bike riding, rock climbing, swimming, waterslide, canoeing and orienteering. The trivia night and “W Factor” were big hits as well.
A large group of Year 6 students attended the Year 7 (2018) Orientation Day. This is a wonderful initiative which allows the senior schools’ “new recruits” to get comfortable with the Our Lady’s Mount Campus. The House Prefects as well as a number of key staff members helped these students begin their transition to high school. Students enjoyed time in the Technology classrooms of the Cosgrove Centre making cupcakes, hearing from Mrs Cullen, Social Justice Coordinator, about how they can contribute to the strong Social Justice Program that our school values so much, seeing the past Waverley College sporting legends in the Queens Park Pavilion and hearing from our fantastic counselling team who ran some positive bonding activities. Students were also able to observe the Remembrance Day Ceremony run by the Waverley College Cadet Unit and finished the day with a refreshing swim in the pool.
Mackenzie Palmer, Jules Cibej and Kit Armstrong enjoy making cupcakes as part of the Year 7 (2018) Orientation Day
Term 4 is an important period, academically, for all students at Waverley College. Year 12 students commence HSC assessment tasks and the Years 5-10 groups are all required to sit the Yearly Examinations. House Prefect in charge of the Academic Portfolio, Andre Vumbaca, was able to share some helpful study tips with students in Aungier House.
This fantastic advice must have paid dividends with a number of Aungier senior students gaining academic awards. Congratulations to the following students:
A range of Aungier Students were involved in a number of House Activities to take the “Reds” up the ladder in the 2017 House Competition. A big thanks to Harrison Palmer, Flynn Keir and Judah Allingham who represented the house in the Inaugural House Diving Competition. Also thanks to Aungier Mentor Group 10 who won the Aungier House Tug-Of-War, and went on to represent Aungier in the House Competition.
Judah Allingham sets for his dive in the Inaugural House Diving Competition
Year 10 finished up the year on a positive note with their involvement at Somerset Camp. The extremely challenging six-day camp was both a mental and physical test for all students. Some of the groups managed to trek nearly 100km throughout the week, while other groups paddled nearly 30km. After early doubts, the rewards felt by students as a result of getting through such a tough experience will undoubtedly provide momentum heading into the HSC years.
Dion Hatziandreou and his Year 10 mates compete in the “Milk Crate Challenge” at Somerset Camp
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the students in Aungier House for the positive way they have responded to a year of change. There were plenty of individual success stories throughout the year, but the biggest success was watching the Aungier students come closer together as the year progressed. Hearing stories of Year 8 students turning to their Year 10 mates for help, or watching Year 7 students engaging with Year 12 students at handball, all were signs of a community coming together and support each other.
Special mention must go to our Aungier House Mentors, who did a great job introducing the new Wellbeing Program and helped the boys get to know each other. Thanks to Mrs Elizabeth Watson, Ms Alice Walker, Ms Nohara Binyamin, Mrs Vanessa Purnell, Mr Anthony Stanton, Mr Mark Claridge, Mr David McCormack, Mr Stephen Wilmot, Mr Garth Aird, Mr James Spargo, Mr Frank Mastroianni, Mr Martin Barrett and Mr George Christodoulou.
2017 will go down as a character-building year for Aungier House. It is a year which our House has developed a foundation to build on. I look forward to carrying the momentum of what has been created this year into the years ahead, as those relationships already established grow stronger and continue to flourish.
I hope all members of the Waverley College Community have a safe and relaxing holiday break. I look forward to seeing you in the greener pastures of 2018.
Term 4 has shaped up to be an incredible term to finish off 2017. We welcomed our new leaders: Jack Hardwicke-Owen, Hunter Markham, Kiva Gwynne and Joseph Wightwick into their role as Prefects and College Vice Captain. These students have lead Quinn House with maturity and positive role modelling throughout their short time as leaders this year. Quinn would like to thank to Jack, Hunter, Kiva and Joseph for all they have done so far and for all they will do for Quinn House in 2018.
Hunter Markham, Jack Hardwicke-Owen, Ms Olivia Kite, Joseph Wightwick and Kiva Gwynne
This Term Quinn embraced their social justice initiative focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. The Wandana Organisation came to Waverley to educate, inform and interact with the students from Quinn House.
Students spent part of their day learning about traditional hunting methods and weapons, ceremonial dresses and their significance, totems, traditional foods, painting techniques and finally, the many uses the Aboriginal people had for the land.
Throughout the day each student contributed to the Quinn House Painting. The Quinn House painting is a modern contemporary Aboriginal painting that captures the essence of Waverley College and its history. At the centre of the painting is the light blue coloured Cross to represent Quinn which was named after Br Quinn who was the first Headmaster of the College. The blue Cross is known as a Cross Crosslet Fitchee which is a symbol of the Holy Trinity of the Catholic Church, upon which the School is founded on. Brother Quinn was a symbol of loyalty and leadership within the College. The gold star at the base of the cross is how Waverley College is incorporated into the Quinn crest and is also the traditional crest of the Christian Brothers, Founders of the College, a symbol of enlightenment & instruction.
Wandana Day finished artwork
Surrounding the cross are the red oxide circular shapes which are traditional Aboriginal symbols for a meeting place to represent the College. And they also pay homage to the local Aboriginal Cadigal people of the Eora nation. The eight large U shapes represent the eight School houses as well as the Teachers & students of the School. Each U shape is spilt into eight segments. These 48 segments represent the 48 Edmund Rice Schools throughout Australia. At the base of painting can be seen the Pacific Ocean & twenty-two U shapes to represent the original twenty-two students when the School was established in 1903 in a house in Salisbury Street.
Flowing through the centre of the painting are the white dots to represent the May Procession in Honour of Our Lady which is the longest standing Marian Procession in Australia. At the top can be seen a white star representing Our Lady and her guiding light shining over the College and local community. The various coloured shapes depict the surrounding local suburbs.
Finally, the hand print of Mr Leddie, Head of College is seen in the lower left-hand space. Mr Leddie’s hand print represents his leadership of the College and commitment to the values of Edmund Rice.
The painting is representative of Waverley College’s commitment to appreciating and celebrating the incredible culture our National’s First People have to offer.
In week 3, our new Year 12 students spent time away on Retreat. This was an opportunity for students to regather themselves, reflect on their efforts and achievements so far, set some goals for 2018 and connect with the other students in their year group. The Retreat was successful in allowing the students to form friendships, support networks and return to school rejuvenated and focused to finish the year well.
Year 10 students also got a similar experience while away on Year 10 camp. The boys were challenged to ‘step up and step out’. The group leaders and teachers supported and challenged the boys to step up and be a leader among their peers and to step out of their comfort zones and give 110% to all the activities and opportunities presented to them on camp. From all accounts, the students thoroughly enjoyed their time away at Somerset with many boys talking about the challenges they had conquered, the boys who had helped them through a tough time and the activities and conversations that solidified their new and existing friendships.
Throughout the year, Quinn students have competed in a number of inter-house competitions. They won the Dodgeball in Term 1, the Netball in Term 3 and placed second in the Tug of War in Term 4. Coupled with their outstanding performance and 1st place win at the Swimming Carnival, Quinn won the House Cup for 2017. The boys were able to enjoy a BBQ at Lower Rec in Week 9 as a reward for all their efforts and enthusiasm throughout the year.
Finally, congratulations to all of the Quinn Academic Award Winners for 2017:
Well done to all of the Academic Award Winners for 2017.
Thank to all of the parents who have encouraged their son to support the range of social justice initiatives around the College throughout 2017. Without your encouragement and support of your son, they would not be the young men they are today.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and safe break over the summer.
Conlon had an unusual start to this final term with Head of House, Ms Cathy O’Sullivan, sustaining a broken leg on her trip to South America during the holiday break. So that Ms O’Sullivan had some time to heal properly, Ms Kaitlyn Downey was selected to step into the role for the remainder of the term and to keep Conlon House on track.
Our prefects have really stepped up and into their new roles this term, going out of their way to help run house assemblies and support the rest of the Conlon Students. They have now also been assigned their portfolios for their individual roles: Luca Martin (Community), Ryan Connolly (Wellbeing), Jonathon Schact (Spirituality) and Anthony Roydhouse (Academic). I’d like to congratulate the boys for such a successful start to their first term as Year 12 leaders. A special mention also needs to go to the rest of the Year 12 Conlon students who have also stepped up and help in many aspects of house life.
Conlon House Prefects- Luca Martin, Ryan Connolly, Jonathon Schact and Anthony Roydhouse
One of the most exciting events on the house calendar this term was the Inter House Diving Competition and Tug o War. Three students from each house were selected to compete in a jump off during a lunchtime in Week 6. Representing Conlon House was one of our prefects, Luca Martin, Year 10 student Daniel Lambert and Year 9 student Alife Sewell. The boys put on an impressive show and secured the win for Conlon House! Between them they received a score of 65 points, 13 points clear of the second placed house, Lacey. This was an outstanding effort by all three boys who represented their house in the true spirit of good sportsmanship and displayed an excellent level of skill.
Luca Martin captivating the crowd at the Interhouse Diving Competition
Daniel Lambert flying through the air at the Interhouse Diving Competition
During Week 8, Conlon 7 competed against the other eight houses in a Tug o’ War competition. The competition was fierce and Conlon beat Green and then Brennan to make it to the grand final against Quinn house. Coached by their wellbeing mentor, Ms Falkinder, Conlon 7 put up an impressive fight and took out the grand final! Congratulations to Ms Falkinder and Conlon 7 on their amazing effort.
Winning house Conlon in the semi final. Miss Downey making sure no one is cheating
There have been a number of fantastic fundraising efforts held by Conlon students this term to help support Edmund Rice Camps. Conlon House held a breakfast barbeque during Week 7 which saw the boys donate gold coins to help raise some funds for the Christmas holiday period. The Library staff also kindly held a Rocket League Tournament during Week 5 and decided to also donate the money to Edmund Rice Camps. A huge thank you needs to go to Mr Aaron Speed-Johnson for all his efforts in running the tournament and another big thank you goes to Year 7 Conlon student Tom Martin, who was our chief barbeque cooker and who showed up early to help out.
Ms Kaitlyn Downey presenting the winner of the Rocket League Tournament with all proceeds going to Eddie Rice Camps
There have been a number of students who have had significant co-curricular achievements throughout the term. These include:
Flynn Gordon (Year 10)
Flynn represented the college at the numerous Track and Field meets throughout the term, having success in a range of events. These included:
Ryan Bakels (Year 12)
Ryan was integral in helping the junior school with practices and the night of the Junior School Music Recital. Ryan gave up his own time to help support these students and help staff with the staging of the production. Well done Ryan!
Daniel Gandy
Daniel recently represented Australia in the Oceania Cycling Championships. Daniel was very successful and won a gold medal in the U19 Oceania Team Pursuit Championships and silver in the U19 Oceania Points Race Championships.
A huge congratulations also needs to go to the Conlon students who were selected in 1sts teams or as Captains this Summer Co-curricular season. We are well represented across all aspects of the co-curricular program and it is wonderful to see the impact that these students are having throughout the school.
Congratulations to:
1st XI Cricket: Ryan Connolly (1st XI Captain); Oliver Ruse
1st V Basketball: Ryan Abbot, Angelo Di Bartolo
1st Waterpolo: Anthony Roydhouse (Water Polo Captain); Baxter Flynn
Table Tennis: Oliver Heys (Captain)
Swimming: Erwan Le Péchoux (Co captain), Jonathon Schact (Co captain)
Swimming Captains Jonathon Schact and Erwan Le Pechoux (both Conlon House students)
Ryan Connolly bowling for the 1st X1 Cricket team
Conlon House welcomed some new students to the school throughout the term, Felix Ranson-O’Bryne (Year 7), Keilan Grace (Year 9) and Miles Amatosero (Year 9). These students have been made most welcome into their respective wellbeing groups and we wish them all the best during their time here at Waverley College.
We would also like to send our best wishes to Felix Catley (Year 8) who will be starting at a new school next year and Jett Galea (Year 5) who is leaving to live on the Central Coast and will be attending Lakes Grammar.
Best of luck Felix and Jett.
During Week 7 of this term, Year 10 set off for Somerset Camp by the Colo River to get back in touch with nature and to continue building relationships with each other. Students were involved in numerous activities such as bushwalks, canoeing, putting up tents, cooking dinner and various night games. Camp is always a fantastic time for the students to recuperate after a long school year and to prepare themselves for their senior years. A big thank you needs to go to the teachers who gave up time away from their families to help the students immerse themselves in the experience and to the staff at Somerset Camp who facilitated the event flawlessly.
Conlon students Ash Backlund and Jasper Cately out on Year 10 Camp
The Junior School held their annual walkathon at the end of last term. The students had a wonderful day raising money for various charities including Eddie’s Camps. A special mention needs to go to the Conlon students who were amongst the top fundraisers in the school. Congratulations to Thomas Holroyde ($915.50), Tom Johnson ($659.30) and James McGreevy ($537.00). These are substantial amounts of money and will go a long way to supporting others in need. Well done to the junior school with a phenomenal $56,415 being raised in total!
Congratuations to these Conlon House Junior School Award winners
Year 5
Cooper Gee: Swimming U10 Championships; Best Defensive Player Water Polo B Team
William Kirk: Silver Award Library; 11C Football Coaches Award
William Hughes: Silver Award Mathematics
Kai Davies: Gold Award; Most Improved Player 11B Football
Tom Edwards: 11B Rugby Coaches Award; Class Merit Award
Matthew Garrop: Best Bowler in Year 5 Super 8 B Team
Luca Hawkins: Silver award Science and technology
Hunter Eldridge: Best Bowler Year 5 Traditional Cricket; Best Forward in 11B Rugby
Matthew Frost: Gold Award Mathematics; Silver Award Performing Arts; 11B Football Best and Fairest
John Walsh: Silver Award for Mathematics Group 2; AFL – Best Defensive Player
James Medland; Silver Award for ICT
Oscar Melder: Gold Award for History and Geography; Tennis – Best and Fairest
Jude Miller; Silver Award – Science and Technology
Year 6
Alistair Isaac: Christian Leadership 6 Green; Gold Award for Performing Arts; Silver Award for French; Best Bowler Prep 2nds Cricket; Best Defensive Player in AFL Blue
Tom Hughes: Class Merit Award
Finn Backlund: Class Merit Award; Headmasters
Evander Hudson: Silver Award Performing Arts; Best Batsman in Year 6 Super 8A Team
Lachlan Grant: Helen Newman Award for Service; Silver for History and Geography
Tom Johnson: Silver Award for Science and Technology
Thomas Holroyde: Class Merit Award; Head of College Award; Mathematical Olympiad Top 20%
Conlon House Year 10 students at The Centre during one of their Reflection Days
Early on in the term, our new Year 12 Conlon students set off to Winmalee Christian Camp in the Blue Mountains to reflect and refocus themselves for their HSC year. This was a highly successful event with students actively engaging in their small groups and building new relationships with some of their peers and teachers. The boys participated in numerous activities such as trust walks, the giving of affirmations and meditation sessions. Congratulations to all students from Conlon House who really got involved in the process and reflected on the year that has passed. I have no doubt that this has helped you to refocus and has given you the opportunity to plan for your final year at the college.
Conlon and Tevlin studens at Retreat
On Tuesday 5th December and Wednesday 6th December, Waverley College held its annual Presentation Night. There were a number of Conlon students who were recognised for their fantastic academic achievements this semester. Congratulations to the following students:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
I would like to thank all of the Conlon students, mentors and parents for a very successful end to the school year. It has been a privilege to work with you all in this acting role. Wishing you all a very safe and happy Christmas break.
Conlon House Christmas Assembly
Green House has enjoyed a rewarding 2017, with students enthusiastically engaging in a wide variety of house and college events. All Green students from Years 5 to 12 and their Wellbeing Mentors can be congratulated for the way they have developed relationships and challenged themselves. The end of the term in particular has seen some wonderful examples of friendship and leadership from within Green House as boys of all ages have engaged in a variety of exciting experiences.
Our new program in 2017 saw Green house junior school students and senior school students spending more time together. It was fantastic to get to know our junior school cohorts who we know in the coming years will be outstanding members of Green.
I would like to thank our Junior School staff for 2017 – Stephen Ghattas and Gabrielle Bransby – for all their efforts. They have been integral to ensuring the Junior School Green students are a part of Green House and they went above and beyond what is expected of them consistently this year. Thanks for your support.
Junior School Green House members
The Junior School walkathon took place during term 3. It was a successful event with over $50,000 dollars raised for charity.
Special recognition needs to go to a few boys in particular for their wonderful contributions from Green House:
They did their house proud with their fantastic effort to raise money for the following charities:
What an amazing three days the Year 5 boys had at Vision Valley this term. All the teachers spoke very highly of the enthusiasm and the participation shown by the boys at the camp. The behaviour of all the students involved was exceptional and all of Year 5 are to be commended.
The boys had a great time whilst involved in a host of activities including abseiling, archery, bike riding, rock climbing, swimming, waterslide, canoeing or orienteering. The trivia night and ‘W Factor’ were big hits as well.
Special thanks to Green House teacher Stephen Ghattas for taking time to attend the camp. Your time and energy waa greatly appreciated by parents and students.
The Year 7 orientation day took place on Friday 10th November. It was great to see so many faces from the junior school and other primary schools around Sydney. While they started out nervously, some fun games and activities managed to bring them closer together. Our 2017 students have set the bar high and I look forward to next year’s group taking this mantle and improving it even more.
Year 7 students met on November 29th to celebrate their successful 2017. They achieved some amazing things as a group this year and we have high hopes for the successful life at Waverley that lays ahead of them. Each of the students took part in a variety of activities and embraced our new wellbeing structure. It was overwhelming to see the students flourishing, developing friendships with older students and becoming integral members of Green House. I know this year group will be successful and look forward to seeing them grow and develop in the future.
2017 Year 7 Green House members
Congratulations to our Years 7 to 10 students for completing their exams in such a determined way this term. While there may have been some trepidation and anxiety beforehand, it was impressive to see the students apply themselves in preparation for their senior exams. All students should work on getting into good study habits early in 2018. A study timetable is highly recommended and if students need support for this process, I ask them to come and see myself or Green Academic Prefect Allan Cannes.
Some useful links to set up a study timetable are linked below.
Year 10 students took part in two Reflection Days as part of their Religious Education Program on Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th November 2017.
In keeping with the major themes of the Year 10 Religious Education curriculum, the focus of these days was on Values and Social Justice. The purpose of these two days was to provide students with the opportunity to reflect on their own attitudes and values, as well as sharing in the experiences, attitudes and values of others.
The two days varied significantly and involved the following:
Activities led by Mr Sam Clear – WALK4ONE
Sam Clear walked around the world for unity. He travelled 15,600km on foot through South America, Central America & North America, across Siberia by train, and on foot again from Moscow to the western most point of Spain. The WALK4ONE thrust Sam onto the front page of numerous overseas news services as he persevered despite exceptional adversity.
Having to find food and water every day was the least of his worries: he was threatened at gunpoint three times, robbed at knife point, beaten up on the side of the road, came face to face with dangerous animals, was hospitalised many times and endured extreme temperatures.
Sam has now presented the lessons from this epic adventure in over 700 businesses and high schools around Australia, New Zealand the United States. His tale is one of extraordinary courage, challenges and love in action under incredible circumstances.
The students were inspired by Sam’s story and ability to overcome incredible challenges. Sam challenged each student to think about their own drive to improve the world and those around them. The activities and stories encouraged students to think about their own behaviours and engagement in the world around them.
Sydney Jewish Museum Visit
Each student attended the Sydney Jewish museum and were lead around the venue by a holocaust survivor. The harrowing story about surviving such a troubling part of human history was an eye opening experience for each of the students at Waverley. Student’s commented on how powerful it was to meet a holocaust survivor and see the impact this had on Jewish people around the world and the long lasting effects that are still there today.
Guest Speakers
The year 10 students met two guest speakers. One of the speakers was a homeless man with HIV that faces difficulties in his day to day life. Students were overwhelmed by his story and many of them discussed the issues that he faced after the discussion.
The other speaker talked about human trafficking and the impact it has on victims around the world. The students could not believe the stories that were shared with them as an eye opening account of the issue in the world around them.
Green House Year 10 students with Sam Clear
Between 19 – 24 November, Year 10 successfully completed their outward bound learning experience at Somerset Camp. The students were met with some outstanding weather, and while there was some slight drizzle, the evenings were perfect as students sat around the campfire to discuss the daily activities and to laugh with friends. Our theme for our camp was ‘Stepping up, Stepping out,’ and it was overwhelming to see the cohort take this on board with each activity. Students managed to step up into leadership and step out of their comfort zone, lessons we hope for the cohort to take into their senior years.
The students took part in a variety of activities, ranging from high ropes, to kayaking and canoeing, with everyone being provided with a chance to overcome adversity and face hardship along the way. The highlights were varied and many, from the groups that paddled 30km along the Colo river, to the group that trekked close to 100km, each opportunity created a great sense of achievement for all the students involved. Several of the camp leaders and teachers commented on the way the students collaborated together in difficult situations and developed an understanding about respect towards others as the week progressed.
In 2017, Waverley College introduced a Duke of Edinburgh program under the guidance of Ms Brown, Ms Alborough and Mr Brophy. We had one group endeavour to complete part of their bronze award during the year 10 camp. When visiting the Duke of Ed group, it was great to see them working together as a team in planning the activities for the next day. Each student was required to map their trek using only the coordinates that had been provided. It was fantastic to see the leadership and drive by each of the students involved in the program as they pushed towards completing their Duke program for the year.
As groups sat around the campfire on the last night, they reflected and commented on how they had achieved things they didn’t think possible, and it was that moment for them when they began to understand the importance of participating in the camp. I would like to congratulate the year 10 cohort, who demonstrated incredible resolve and character throughout. Each student faced their own difficulties on camp and hopefully the lessons they learnt will be lifelong and rewarding.
I would like to thank all the Waverley families, for allowing the year 10 students, to take part in such an important part of their learning experience. Some lessons can only be taken outside the classroom and camp provides those.
Thanks must also go to year 10 students for the mature and focused way they approached the year. It was a great way to end the year for this cohort who continue to show their exceptional potential as our college leaders of the future.
Year 10 on camp
Year 12 students started their HSC courses this term and it has been encouraging to see the focus and determination of the students. They have matured significantly since the start of the year and should be commended for their personal growth and application in the classroom. The term hasn’t been all work for our Year 12s, as they attended the Year 12 reflection day – an important moment in the school calendar that allows the students to engage in some very in-depth and emotional discussions about their lives and the lives of the students around them. I hope all students found them to be a experience.
I wish all Year 12s a relaxing summer break but I would recommend students engage in the following to help them in their HSC year for 2018:
I look forward to seeing you all in term 1 next year ready for an important year.
Year 12 students on retreat
On Friday 24 November, Green House took part in the annual White Ribbon Day walk from Randwick to Coogee. It was overwhelming to see the students, parents and staff taking a stand and making their voices heard. Talking to the students in Green House during the walk, they mentioned they felt part of something bigger and that by taking part they were making an impact on social issues in the community. Each student in Green has been able to take part in an important social justice initiative and this will be the focus for Green House for years to come.
I would especially like to thank our Green Prefects for coordinating, fundraising and advocating for this cause so passionately. For the boys in our younger years, look to our leaders for inspiration and motivation when you need it, they have been monumental.
We also had quite a few parents that came to walk with their sons. Their involvement shows the importance of the students taking a stand on this issue and the support behind us from our parents at Waverley. It was inspiring seeing parents taking part in such a significant event.
I would like to thank the following staff for their attendance on Friday and for taking part in the event, their involvement allows students to see the importance of these events in the college community. We are lucky to have such motivated staff at Waverley and again, these staff members went above and beyond with their participation on Friday morning.
Staff involved:
Our Wellbeing Prefect, Daniel Brown spoke to school at an assembly in November, and I will use his powerful words to encourage the young men of Waverley to stand up and take action, because the world is not going to change if we wait for it.
Green Wellbeing Prefect Daniel Brown speaking to whole school assembly about White Ribbon Day
“I challenge you to be aware of the way in which your peers treat women. Rethink your perceptions of women. Rethink your current attitude and vocabulary towards the girls and women in your life. And most importantly rethink what it means to be a man.
I know this speech may have been quite confronting for some of you but the vast majority of you before me are kind respectful young men. White Ribbon is Men standing up against Violence against women. Good men like you standing up and saying that enough is enough!
You determine the culture of the world you live in, and if you want to live in a world where women are no longer abused by men, then take action, because the world is not going to change if you wait for it.”
Green House at the White Ribbon Walk 2017
Green house started our focus on White Ribbon day by hosting a BBQ at the start of November.
Prefects and SRC members organised and set up the event and should be congratulated for their efforts. I would like to thank all the other students that gave their time to support this event as well with a special mention to Daniel Chow for his involvement.
Thank you to all the students that helped to set up this inaugural event and students that put their hands at up various times through term 4 to make this event so successful.
Green House BBQ about to start
During November Green students were also lucky enough to hear from Marty Wilson. An Australian Comedian of the Year winner, a White Ribbon ambassador, a best selling author of the book, ” What I wish I knew”, and a Ted X presenter that discussed the importance of men taking a stand and speaking out against Violence Against Women. It was a highlight of our term and a speech many boys will remember for a long time.
Green House engaged in a variety of House competitions in 2017 with a variety of success throughout.
During term 4, Green House year 10 student, Max Coleman took the role of our only diver to take part in the diving competition. Thanks Max for getting involved.
Inter-House Diving competition
We also held the Tug O’War competition with Green group 7 taking charge for Green House to compete. I want to thank Green Mentor Katia Iturrieta and her support for getting Green group 7 to compete so vigorously on the day.
At our last assembly for the year, Green held the annual ‘12 days of Christmas challenge,’ It was great to see year 5 – 12 students working together in their mentor groups in a variety of activities. A copy of the event can be found here, if you would like to use it for family events during the holiday period. It can be a lot of fun. Thanks to all students and staff for being so involved and congratulations to Green Group 10 for their success in winning the event and earning the much sought after pizza lunch as a result.
Christmas Themed Assembly
I want to thank the exceptional work of our new House Prefects and our 2017 SRC members. The tireless work they have done has been consistently above and beyond what is expected of them. They should be commended on their incredible work. All Green students should look to them for motivation and inspiration over the next 12 months. Congratulations on the work you have done so far.
Student captains with School vice captain and Green student, Dominic Augoustis – far right
School Vice Captain: Dominic Augoustis
Green Prefects: Wellbeing Daniel Brown; Community Ben Scarf; Academic Allan Cannes, Spiritual Nathan Higgs
Green House Prefects with family after leadership assembly
SRC Members: Rocco Evans, Caillan Porter, Ullhas Dey, Julian Ginnane, Reuben Maree, Ian Vuk, James Eveleigh
SRC members during leadership training seminar
I would like to congratulate the following Green students for their roles in our summer firsts teams:
1st XI Cricket: Ben Scarf, Rory Doyle
Green House students Ben Scarf and Rory Doyle walking out for the first XI
Cycling Captain: Daniel Brown
Congratulations to the following Green students for their outstanding academic achievements this year. As a result for their hard work and determination, they have attained high levels of success. As a house we should be very proud of our students in Green that reach such incredible heights in their academic focus.
| Maddox Grebert (Year 7) | Head of College Award for Academic Excellence |
| Eddie Kranz (Year 10) | 1st in year in Applied Philosophy |
| Rocco Evans (Year 10) | 1st in year in Commerce, History, Visual Arts. 2nd in year 10 Academic results |
| Remi Defina-Sperando Year 10) | 1st in year in Mathematics Level 3, Music. Prize for Musicianship |
| Daniel Brown (Year 12) | 1st in year in Spanish Beginners |
| Louis Cosgrove (Year 12) | 1st in year in Business Studies |
| Dominic Augoustis (Year 12) | 1st in year in Music Course I |
| Allan Cannes (Year 12) | 1st in year in Ancient History, Arthur and Mollie Burke Memorial Prize for English Advanced, Legal Studies, Extension English, Modern History, Fr Kevin Nolan and Ms Merle Frances Nolan Award for Studies of Religion II
Dux of Year 11 |
2018 Green House Events
While 2017 is over, we are already looking forward to our 2018 program with excitement.
Green House will host a breakfast in term 1 as a starting point for the year, more information will be provided next year, but I look forward to meeting many parents again or for the first time at a special coming together. Students will be required to attend.
Our big brother/little brother program has been redesigned for 2018. Year 10 students will be expected to take part and will be integral supporters of our junior school students. They will have time allocated to them during enrichment periods to spend some time supporting junior school students through a variety of activities and events. Hopefully this enables year 10 students to take on some leadership roles as they push to become Prefects and leaders further down the track.
Green House will continue its empowerment committee in 2018 under the guidance of our Wellbeing and Spiritual Prefects, Nathan Higgs and Daniel Brown. Student applications will be sent out early in term 1.
Green House will also continue our study group in 2018 under the guidance of Green House Academic Prefect Allan Cannes.
Green House will yet again participate in the White Ribbon Walk in 2018 and all parents will be invited to attend the day. It is one of the highlights of the year seeing so many boys becoming advocates for such a significant cause.
More information about these events will be distributed early in term 1.
While the year has ended, I wanted to provide more information about Brother Green and our house Motto as it has been requested by parents and students. Brother Green was on the College staff for various times between 1916 – 1953. He was Headmaster from 1933-1938. Great progress was made during his time and he secured the Queens Park playing fields.
Our house motto, E pluribus unum – ‘out of many, one’ or more simply ‘strength in unity’ was originally written in the Moretum, a poem by Virgil, one of Rome’s most famous poets. Virgil was also the first name of Brother Green. The idea of ‘strength in unity’ is not only espoused through the Green House community, but through the greater Waverley College community and friends. In unity of a group there is great power and force to meet a single focus and objective. The community of Green House uses these qualities to live up to the values set by Waverley College.
Green House would not be the place it is without the support we have from our incredible mentors. Through the development of the wellbeing program this year, it has been exciting to see our Green mentors developing and engaging with the wellbeing curriculum. Our students are lucky to be greeted by your smile every morning and I sincerely wanted to thank you all for your work this year.
It is also with great sadness we farewell Green House Mentors Catherine Lowery, Tegan Bayliss and Annabel Kilpatrick. We them all the best for the future.
In 2018 we will welcome back Amie Schoenmaker to work with Jannet Markey in supporting Green Group 2.
I also want to thank every student for embracing our new wellbeing focus this year. Everyday I make it my aim to talk to as many Green students as possible. I enjoy these conversations because the students in Green have welcomed me as their mentor and leader throughout their time at Waverley. Thanks for our daily conversations and discussions about the day ahead, they are one of the highlights of my role as Head of Green House.
Finally I want to thank all the parents of Green students. Your support is consistently overwhelming and we are so lucky to have you as part of the Green family. I wish the best of luck to those parents that are moving on or to a different school and look forward to making memories with parents and students in 2018.
Enjoy the upcoming Christmas period. I wish you all a restful and relaxing holiday break.
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation who are the traditional Custodians of the land on which Waverley College is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual connections to the land, waters, seas and sky and their rich contribution to society.
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