Last Saturday saw the final few fixtures for the 2022 year. Well done to those Water Polo and Cricket sides that performed well, with Will Hickey scoring an unbeaten century for the 1st XI against Barker, and the 2nds Water Polo on a gritty victory.
Congratulations, Will Hickey
I also want to congratulate Oliver Aboud and Zion Poitaha on their recent selections in the Rugby Australia U16 development squad.
We were also so excited to have three Waverley College Old Boys all on the field at the same time, representing the Wallabies in their famous ‘come from behind’ victory against Wales on Saturday. Well done to Jed Holloway, Ben Donaldson and Sam Talakai.
Ben Donaldson, Sam Talakai and Jed Holloway
We commence the second half of the summer season in Term 1 2023, as well as welcoming our new Year 7s into the Senior School. The training schedule that was published this term will remain the same for those students in Years 8-12, however, we will also be accommodating that new year group.
For the first three weeks of Term 1, 2023, we will also be accepting Winter Activity change requests. Any requests submitted after Week 3 will not be considered. A request also does not guarantee that we can accommodate all changes.
I also understand that we have a large number of students who undertake a range of external activities, and many of these happen in Term 1 such as Touch Football State Cup, Oztag and Surf-Lifesaving Championships.
Please note that any student is entitled to two leave requests in a calendar year, and that these must be in writing to myself with two weeks’ notice where possible.
Students and parents/carers also need to be aware of other events happening throughout the year, and be selective for when they decide to request these exemptions.
Please do not use the College app to apply for leave. Any absences due to illness or injury can be recorded through the College app.
A number of activities occur over the Christmas break, including SwimFit, Pre-Season Rugby and Football, and Cricket Camps. Those students keen on these, need to check their emails and the Waverley College app for the necessary invitations, and to sign up.
For any family departing Waverley College at the end of this year, I want to wish you well and thank you for all of your efforts and contribution to the co-curricular program at Waverley.
I hope our whole community have a safe, happy and Holy Christmas.
As Term 4 draws to a close, I want to extend my gratitude to all within the Cricket community for their support in an enjoyable return to a normalised season of CAS Cricket.
The Parent v Son game was another fantastic display of community spirit within our College, and was a delightful afternoon for all involved. Thank you to the new president of the Supporters’ Group, Craig McDonald, for all his work organising this event.
After two disrupted seasons of COVID-19, and the constant threat of La Niña, we have successfully facilitated regular two-day Cricket, which has improved the boys’ development. Participation in the morning Batting Club has also been a clear example of the boys’ eagerness to improve their skill set and match performance.
Over the past term, we have been witness to some outstanding individual performances:
| Centuries | ||
| Players | Score | Team |
| Will Livissianis | 115* v St Aloysius’ | 9A |
| Luke Duffy | 101* v Trinity | 8B |
| Thomas Rudolph | 110 v Cranbrook | 9A |
| Ashton Hourn | 124 v Cranbrook | 9A |
| Thomas Rudolph | 101 v Trinity | 9A |
| Asher Dowd | 102 v Trinity | 9A |
| Hunter Eldridge | 117 v Cranbrook | 1st XI |
| William Hickey | 100* v Barker | 1st XI |
| 50 + | ||
| Player | Score | Team |
| William Hickey | 52* v Knox | 1st XI |
| Hirav Gandhi | 52 v Knox | 1st XI |
| Charles Coughlan | 53 v St Aloysius’ | 2nd XI |
| James Fragias | 62 v Trinity | 2nd XI |
| Frederick Le Vay | 62 v Trinity | 2nd XI |
| Charles Coughlan | 90 v Trinity | 10A |
| Charlie Short | 67 v Trinity | 10A |
| Benjamin Van Dam | 83 v Trinity | 10A |
| William Bayly | 54 v Trinity | 8B |
| William Bayly | 68 v Barker | 8B |
| Kaden Maquire | 55 v Barker | 8B |
| Henry Reid | 57* v St Aloysius’ | 8A |
| Zander Bass | 54 v Barker | 10A |
| Ashton Hourn | 59 v Barker | 9A |
Notably, over the last two weekends, standout displays of batting prowess have come from Thomas Rudolph 101 (9A), Asher Dowd 102 (9A), Zander Bass 54 (10A), Kaden Maquire 55 (8A), James Fragias 62 (2nd XI) and Freddie Le Vay 62 (2nd XI).
Congratulations, Asher Dowd
Thomas Rudolph has scored back-to-back centuries, with his first against Cranbrook and the second against Trinity.
Congratulations, Thomas Rudolph
I would also like to recognise the grit of James Fragias, who took to the centre in a troubling time for the seconds, being down 5/48. Fragias opened up with his new Gunn & Moore – stickers gleaming – to put the 2nd XI in a much more securable position.
Congratulations, James Fragias
Zander Bass also carried his team to a first innings victory in regulation playing time, blasting 10 boundaries to knock a 54 against Barker. Thank you to coach Leo Shanahan, and all the players of the 10A, for the mature manner in which they conducted themselves.
William Hickey‘s century against Barker was another display of Waverley guts and determination, whilst also a unique knock that was well overdue for the Hickey family. William took to the crease after a quick fall of wickets on Day 1, and finished the afternoon on 64. On Day 2, Will chose his shots wisely to gain his century comfortably, putting 11 balls to the fence.
Congratulations, Will Hickey
William is a fourth-generation Waverlian. William’s great-grandfather and grandfather – both named John Hickey – played in the 1st XI of 1912 and 1939, respectively. William’s father, Denis Hickey, was a member of the 1979 championship 1st XI. William’s older brother also played in the 2019/20 1st XI. Despite this long generational connection with the College, William is the first member to score a century, and make his mark on the Pavilion honour board. I am sure the Hickey family are exceptionally proud of William’s efforts. William’s performance on Saturday is a testament to his firm resolve and will to represent his College proudly. Congratulations, William.
Will Hickey congratulated by the 1st XI
Matthew Frost also earned his spot on the honour board, taking 5/47 in the same 1st XI match against Barker. Matthew’s five-wicket haul was only inevitable due to all his hard work at training, and the energy he brings on Saturdays. Matthew has become very comfortable with the Queens Park wicket, taking 4/26 in Round 2 against St Aloysius.’ I am sure Matthew’s next goal is to carry his bat with a maiden 1st XI century.
Lastly, a reminder that the College is offering two internal cricket camps for Waverley College students. These camps cater to both our junior and senior players, with days designated to these differing age groups.
Please click the button below for the College events page which includes the Trybooking links.
College Events page – January Cricket Camps Trybooking Links
Wishing everyone a very happy and merry summer holiday!
As the Term and College year are now officially finished and with some students having been away over the last couple of weeks, the Book Hire Room will be open 8am-4pm, as well as a crate placed at the Senior School Reception from Monday, 5 December until Wednesday, 7 December for any outstanding textbooks that need to be returned.
Thank you so much for all your help and wishing everyone happy holidays!
Our recruits are already two thirds of their way through their Induction Year of Cadet Training, and have thus far enjoyed Archery, the Climbing Wall, Cover Drill, Ratel, Camouflage and Concealment, Methods of Movement, Scavenger Hunts, Medics Exercises, Drill Competitions and Swim testing in their Cadet uniform.
Thank you to the SUO and her team in RHQ for their constant planning and commitment in executing the Training Program from week to week. Company spirit is high as we break for the year.
We start 2023 on 3 February and look forward to the annual Golden Boot Competition on 10 February, vying platoon against platoon in military skills and cadet knowledge, in a fun afternoon of inter-company competition.
In subsequent weeks, we will refresh your field skills in preparation for AFX and introduce you to Navigation. AFX will be a camp unlike any you have experienced, and your rank are looking forward to working with you on these skills.
A huge thank you to all our rank and staff for their excellent leadership in 2022. Corporals, Sergeants, Warrant Officers, Cadet Under Officers and Directing Staff, I thank you all for your commitment and passion and belief in the vision of this youth development program.
I wish you all a safe and relaxing holiday to give you the energy to hit the ground running in our short lead-up to AFX 2023 at the end of Term 1.
Merry Christmas to everyone in the Unit, to your families, and to the wider Waverley College and St Catherine’s communities.
In January 2023, Theo Varvaressos (Year 12) will be attending the National Youth Science Forum to participate in a range of workshops and lectures, to develop his passion for science and build connections within the industry.
The National Youth Science Forum provides participants with the opportunity to:
Theo went through a rigorous multi-stage interview process to be accepted to attend this program, including an extensive written application, and three presentations to a panel of scientists, one on his topic of choice: genetically modified crops.
He chose to discuss the debate and history in this field of science as he “has an interest in genetics and GMOs and believes that if they are used correctly they have immense potential to benefit the world in both medical and agricultural applications.”
Theo aims to study either psychology or medical science at university, and believes this program will assist him to learn more about these career paths and potentially expose him to other careers in STEM he had not yet considered.
Theo is also looking forward to meeting students from other schools with similar interests in STEM.
We are incredibly proud of Theo for being accepted into this competitive program and look forward to hearing about his experience in Term 1.
Read more about the National Youth Science Forum
Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours
Last week, students in Years 8 and 9 undertook their Practice and Qualifying Adventurous Journeys as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Bronze Award.
They engaged in a wide range of operations, testing their strengths and weaknesses, whilst building relationships along the way.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global youth program which challenges young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements and make a difference in their world. Doing the Award is a personal challenge; pushing participants to their limits and recognising and celebrating achievements.
The Award is run in over 130 countries, with over 8 million young people participating worldwide. Our College currently offers this Award to students in Year 8 and above, and spans Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
For more information or to get involved please email Mr Alon Horry ahorry@waverley.nsw.edu
Please see me if you require any further assistance or information.
Ms Kath Knowles
Senior Studies & Careers Coordinator
kknowles@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Over the past few weeks, students in Mr Lind’s 7.1 Science class worked in teams to confront two critical questions:
and
Trying on the role of junior engineers for the week, the boys designed wind turbines to test their hypotheses for maximising wind power. By evaluating the project, it became evident that the boys key takeaways differed, depending on their personal interests.
For Kobey Sager, the windmill experiment supported his understanding of the brake and accelerant potential of wind in the building of his go-cart, whereas Alex Janis noted the ramifications for flags at the beach, and Harry Trinca considered the role of windsocks at the airport.
Later in the week, the focus on potential energy shifted from fans to food, specifically, what types of food have the most potential energy? For these self-professed hungry students, an investigation of this nature was of the utmost importance! What better way to learn about the energy content in food than to burn some in the Science lab? Beginning with the humble potato chip, the boys quickly learnt that a big flame equaled a high fat content but energy fizzled fast, whereas chocolate wafers burnt for the longest time.
Although Mr Lind provided modelling of the reliable scientific research process for the class, he also ensured students had the flexibility to investigate and answer these deep inquiry questions, with the goal of building each student’s ability to handle cognitive complexity.
Each team worked at a different pace, which is consistent with the evaluative nature of many STEM problems, meaning problem solving is an important part of a student’s eventual success. Hands-on opportunities like these support the adoption of a student’s healthy attitude to learning and growth through self reflection, resilience and the sneaky consumption of a chocolate wafer or two!
Congratulations to our Year 10s who have made a significant impact across the community during Service Week. The boys have volunteered their time, care and efforts across a range of charities, primary schools, child care centres and NGOs. My email has been running hot all week with very positive feedback on their manners, care, patience and assistance, which we are all proud to hear and receive. Thank you to Ms Marie-Anne Maakrun and Ms Sue Walsh for coordinating the experiences.
Congratulations to our Year 8s who have performed very well on their outdoor education experience to Somerset Outdoor Learning Centre. Somerset is located about 90 minutes North-West of Sydney on the Colo River (known as the last pristine river in NSW). The Centre operates from a central Base Camp which services over 40km of the Colo Valley.
Somerset offers the unique experience of tent camping, which presents the opportunity for students to engage with their natural surroundings and spirit of adventure. It provides a fun and supportive framework for students to develop leadership skills, work as a team and appreciate the value of friendships.
The boys participated in a number of activities including canoeing, rafting, abseiling, hiking, cooking, obstacle course, rock climbing and the wombat hole challenge. It is a wonderful opportunity for the boys to slow down from the fast-paced nature of big city living and no screen time.
Two of our Duke of Edinburgh groups also used this as an opportunity to complete some of their Program requirements. Thank you to our dedicated teaching staff who supported the boys on their adventures.
The College Community is looking forward to celebrating the year at both the Years 5-8 Presentation Day (9am – 10:30am) and the Years 9,10,12 Presentation Day (12 Noon – 1:30pm). All parents/carers are welcome to attend either of these events, which are being held in the Gym.
Congratulations to Mr Stephen Ghattas who has been appointed (Acting) Assistant Director of the Junior School. Stephen is well known to the Waverley community as a caring and talented educator. He has previously carried out a number of leadership roles at the College including 18 months as Acting Assistant Director of Junior School, Assistant Director of Identity & Student Formation, Religious Education coordinator, Maths coordinator and Acting Sportsmaster. We wish him much success in this role.
Mr Bishoy Wasef (ICT Support Staff) has embraced Movember to raise funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. He has raised $915 thus far with five days left. If you would like to support this important cause, please donate via myMo Space by clicking the button below.
The Wentworth Community has called for strong climate action, but what does it mean to reduce emissions to Net Zero and how long will this take? On Sunday, 27 November, Federal MP Allegra Spender is convening Wentworth’s first ever Climate Summit: Powering Wentworth to Net Zero in collaboration with local State MPs, Councils and the Smart Energy Council.
Register below to learn about the wide range of local initiatives currently underway from local councils, businesses, innovators and community groups.
Click here for event information and to register your interest in attending
This is a multi-partisan event that brings together members of all political stripes and all levels of government, and we hope it will kick-start an accelerated path to net zero for our community.
A few weeks ago, I mentioned and congratulated three Waverley College Old Boys for making the European Wallaby tour. Excitingly, they will all be representing their country against Wales this weekend with Jed Holloway and Ben Donaldson named in the starting team and Sam Talakai named on the bench. Sam’s younger brother Kaiasi recorded a video message for his older brother from Year 8 camp this morning, hoping he makes his Wallaby debut on Sunday morning in Cardiff.
Congratulations to Thomas Rudolph who has gone back-to-back centuries in cricket over the last two weekends. And, congratulations to Oliver Aboud and Zion Poitaha who have been selected in the U16 National Rugby Development Squad. All brilliant achievements!
Please find below key event dates you need to be aware of for the Junior School in Term 4. For all of the College events, please refer to the College calendar.
Semester 2 reports will be available at 5pm today. These will be accessible via the Parent Lounge in TASS. To access your son’s report, please click the Waverley College Parent Lounge button below.
Well done to 5 White and Ms Tweedie on a wonderful class assembly this week. It was lovely to see the last assembly of the year filled with enthusiasm, joy and Christmas spirit. The students shared their acting, writing and dancing skills and sent us off to class singing Christmas songs.
Marlow Moffit completed the Overland Track in Tasmania with his Dad (Andrew) and Uncle (Mark) last week.
In a rugged and wild country under some testing weather conditions (including sun, rain and snow!) Marlow pushed through 70 kilometres of ancient forests, steep mountain ranges, raging rivers and towering waterfalls with pure grit and determination.
It was an amazing experience, and we are incredibly proud of him and his effort. The beautiful photos capture their unique experience.
Ms Gabrielle Bransby
(Acting) Director of the Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Last Friday, 18 November, both Ryan Loughrey (5 Orange) and Sebastian Karhan (5 Indigo), were invited to attend the Wentworth Youth Forum with the Federal Member of Wentworth, Ms Allegra Spender.
They were joined by other student leaders from schools within the local area, to share what they see are the greatest concerns of young people in Wentworth. They were also given an insight into what it is like being a Federal representative.
Both boys represented the College with pride, and I look forward to attending future forums with them in 2023.
With Ms Allegra Spender MP, Member for Wentworth
Climate Summit – Climate Summit: Powering Wentworth to Net Zero – a Message from Ms Allegra Spender MP, Federal Member for Wentworth
“The Wentworth Community has called for strong climate action, but what does it mean to reduce emissions to Net Zero and how long will this take? On Sunday, 27 November, Federal MP Allegra Spender is convening Wentworth’s first ever Climate Summit: Powering Wentworth to Net Zero in collaboration with local State MPs, Councils and the Smart Energy Council. Register here to learn about the wide range of local initiatives currently underway from local councils, businesses, innovators and community groups.”
Mr Stephen Ghattas
Assistant Director of Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Well done to all Summer Co-Curricular teams for finishing the uninterrupted season on such a high. I’d like to thank all coaches, students and parents/carers for their continued commitment throughout the year to all levels of Co-Curricular.
Zero interruptions allowed our students to enjoy a full calendar year of sport and extra co-curricular activities, which is undoubtedly important for their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
I wish all current Year 6 students the best of luck in Senior School in 2023, and I look forward to welcoming back our current Year 5 students as Junior leaders of our College.
Enjoy the restful break, stay active, and I wish all families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Please enjoy some team photos from the final round of Summer Co-Curricular sport last weekend.
Basketball D
Basketball G
Tennis A
Touch Football Gold B
Water Polo A
Cricket 5A
Cricket 5A and 5B
Cricket 6A
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
There will be NO Home Learning in Week 8.
As the College year comes to an end, I would like to acknowledge all the students who immersed themselves in the many activities the Learning Hub offered.
The Learning Hub aims to inspire, engage and empower students through critical and creative activities, plus allow students to retreat, explore and collaborate with others, whether that be before school, Learning Hub sessions, or during lunch.
All these activities and more will be on offer in 2023.
I hope you enjoyed viewing all the vibrant Learning Hub photos at the top of the screen.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A big thank you to all the boys who performed at the Junior School Music Festival on Thursday night. I am very proud of you. The boys also got an opportunity to perform some of the items from the Music Festival to the whole Junior School on Thursday afternoon.
I know they felt like stars, thanks to the very positive response they got from their peers from the Junior School.
Keep an eye out for our Junior School singers again, when they join the Senior School choir in a performance for the Presentation Day celebrations.
It’s not too late! If you have enjoyed watching and listening to some of the performing groups from the Junior School, all groups will be be running again in 2023. Please see Ms Rollins if you are interested.
So, as you can see, there is something for everyone.
If you have any questions at all regarding any of the music activities in our College, please email:
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Ms Michelle Rollins
Music and Drama Teacher
mrollins@waverley.nsw.edu.au
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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