What an unforgettable Back to Queens Park Day!
Last Saturday we were thrilled to welcome over 120 Old Boys back to Waverley College to celebrate our Rugby 1st XV’s thrilling victory against Trinity Grammar School. It was truly heartwarming to see so many familiar faces reuniting, with alumni traveling from as far as Taiwan, New Zealand, and various interstate locations just to be a part of this special occasion.
Your support and dedication to Waverley College make events like this possible, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended. Thank you for making it a day to remember, and we can’t wait to see you all again soon!
Billy Nicolas
Development Officer
bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Science Week at Waverley College was a great success, filled with exciting events, engaging talks, and class based activities that sparked curiosity and a deeper appreciation for science among students. Held from Monday, 12 August to Friday, 16 August, the week featured a range of activities aimed at exploring different fields of science, with guest speakers, challenges, and interactive experiences.
The week kicked off with a captivating talk by Ian Storie who has a wealth of experience in various fields of Science. Ian shared stories of his career journey, spanning engineering companies, CSIRO and a start up company he began, highlighting the importance of problem-solving, innovation, and perseverance in the profession. His engaging presentation introduced students to the vast possibilities in engineering, from designing desalination solutions to developing cutting-edge bee recognition technology. Ian’s talk left students feeling inspired to explore how they, too, could contribute to the world of engineering and science.
Following Ian’s talk, Claire Petite, a veterinarian, delivered an insightful presentation on the fascinating world of veterinary science. Claire discussed the vital role veterinarians play in ensuring the health and well-being of animals, and how students may enter the exciting field of Veterinary medicine. She also shared personal anecdotes from her career, offering students a glimpse into the day-to-day challenges and rewards of working with animals. Her talk was particularly popular with students passionate about animal care and biology.
For Year 7 and 8 students, the highlight of the week was an exhilarating science show from Fizzics Education. Known for their dynamic approach to science education, the team from Fizzics delivered an interactive show that explored various scientific principles in fun and engaging ways.
From explosive chemical reactions to mind-bending physics demonstrations, the show captivated students and made complex scientific concepts accessible and enjoyable. The students were eager participants, answering questions and even volunteering for some of the demonstrations, making it a memorable experience for all.
Thank you to Bishoy and Mr Peter Lamb for their support and help with this incursion.
One of the hands-on incursions for the week came from Sydney University focusing on hydrogen fuel cells. Undergraduate experts from the university introduced students to this cutting-edge green technology, which promises to revolutionise energy production in the future. Students were fascinated as they learned how hydrogen fuel cells work, generating electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water being the only byproduct.
The incursion featured hands-on activities, allowing students to see hydrogen fuel cells in action and explore their potential applications in everything from powering cars to supplying energy to entire cities. Students were able to build a model car including a hydrogen fuel cell which was able to power the car to move and light up. This session underscored the importance of sustainable energy solutions and inspired students to think critically about the future of energy and their role in shaping it.
Thank you to Ms Silvia Baylie who organised this fantastic experience for the students.
Throughout the week, students were also invited to participate in various science challenges in class that tested their problem-solving skills and creativity. These challenges ranged from participating in Escape rooms to tackling challenges relating to Species sustainability and survival. The hands-on activities allowed students to apply scientific principles in a fun and practical way, fostering teamwork and critical thinking.
Science Week wasn’t all about high-tech demonstrations and expert talks—it also brought some creative fun to the school! On Thursday during recess, Mr. William Roberts hosted a Colouring Challenge in the library, where students could unwind and unleash their artistic talents. The competition attracted a lot of enthusiasm, as students coloured images of Earl the Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon. Students were able to enter their designs to the state-wide Stile competition to win a new pair of AirPods! This added incentive made the library a buzzing hub of creativity and friendly competition.
Science Week was a resounding success, bringing science to life for students and showcasing the endless possibilities within the field. With inspiring guest speakers like Ian Storie and Claire Petite, as well as the interactive Fizzics Education show, students were given a unique opportunity to explore different scientific disciplines and imagine their own futures in science.
We look forward to seeing how the seeds of inspiration planted during Science Week will grow in the years to come!
This Winter period is particularly difficult for those members of our society experiencing homelessness.
Waverley is having a Winter donation drive in August (until the end of Week 6) to support the Matthew Talbot Hostel. With 2 weeks to go, now is the time for all boys to put into action their plans for the the items they have chosen to donate!
Matthew Talbot Hostel is a wonderful organisation helping over 40,000 Sydney men each year in providing accommodation, health, counselling and employment assistance.
Waverley has had a long history of boys volunteering in it’s kiosk in Woolloomooloo. All boys from all Houses from Years 5-12 are encouraged to bring in toiletry and other essential items on the list below in order to be able to provide packs for the homeless and marginalised groups which the Matthew Talbot Hostel provides assistance for.
Matthew Talbot Winter Appeal – Donation item list:
Toiletry pack Items – small traveller size for items is best
Home Starter Kit Items: these are prepared and distributed to the men when they move out of the Hostel into more settled accommodation. New items are ideal, but used/clean items in good condition are also fine.
Clothing
Items desired as new, or very good condition: Warm Winter Jackets, Mens Tracksuit Pants, Long Sleeve Polo shirts or Long Sleeve T-shirts;
Items required to be new: Gloves , Underpants (Large or XL size), Socks (calf / mid-length in white sports or any colour)
All items can be brought to either the Senior School Wellbeing Centre or Junior school reception up until August 29.
Our Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction is now live! Proudly sponsored by This is Africa, LJ Hooker, OrthoBoutique, The POP Team, Bondi Gin Co, Penny’s Hotel and Neeson Murcutt Neille.
Look around the site and get involved by bidding on some of our amazing auction items, generously donated by families and businesses in our College community.
We have over 50 items on offer with a few incredible standouts:
Live Auction items include:
Check out all of the prizes up for grabs HERE!
We are thrilled to announce Waverley College has partnered with local Randwick business This is Africa – a leading African tour company – to offer a 12-day luxury family trip to South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana!
Day 1-3: South Africa, Sabi Sand Reserve – Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Day 4-5: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls – Pioneers Lodge Victoria Falls
Day 6-8: Botswana, Chobe region – Chobe Bakwena Lodge
Day 9-11: South Africa, Cape Town – Southern Sun Waterfront
Day 12: South Africa – End of services
This once-in-a-lifetime trip valued at over $30,000 will be up for grabs as part of the Waverley College Blue and Gold Ball silent auction, launching on August 12 at 9am. The auction is open to anyone and everyone, even if you’re not attending the Ball.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or looking to embark on your first grand adventure, this experience promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking sights.
The link to our auction website can be found HERE.
If you’re the winner of this incredible prize, all you’ll need to organise is flights, visas and select meals not included.
Bidding is easy! Simply head to our Blue and Gold Ball auction website HERE and place your bid. Bidding starts at 9AM on August 12 and ends at 9PM on August 24. Be sure to place your bids early and keep an eye on the auction page to secure this incredible prize.
Not only will you have the chance to win an unforgettable African adventure, but your participation also supports a great cause. The proceeds from the Blue and Gold Ball Silent Auction go towards the Waverley College Building Fund, dedicated to the construction of a state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Centre.
This visionary facility will set a new standard for education, conservation, and cultural heritage preservation. This Centre features a remarkable 14 purpose-built laboratories, including specialised spaces like the Marine Studies Lab, Engineering Lab, and a unique Rooftop Lab. It also stands as a beacon of sustainability and a testament to our profound connection with the rich First Nations Australian heritage.
For more information about the prize, please contact This Is Africa:
A: 51 Frenchmans Rd Randwick
P: 02 9664 9187
We are calling for expressions of Interest from students who would like to try an exciting water sport, Dragon Boating!
This would be new to Waverley College for the Summer 2024/2025 Co-Curricular season. Crews are up to 20 paddlers, plus a sweep and drummer, in fibreglass boats with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails.
Dragon Boating is a great sport for building fitness, teamwork and self-discipline.
Please CLICK HERE for more information and to express your interest.
The Science Department are very excited to announce that it is Science week next week! Students will be carrying out activities based around the theme of Species Survival – More than just sustainability! during class time. Two guest speakers will be coming in to share their experiences in different science sectors, students in all years are welcome to bring their lunch along and listen to their experiences and career pathways.
Mr Ian Storie has had a very varied career in Science disciplines, stemming from his first degree in Chemistry. He has worked in the Engineering sector, CSIRO and other business sectors Ian will be guiding students on the importance of Science and the diverse future career paths it can lead you down. Ian will also be running a session specifically for Y11 students during Period 5. Please email Miss Pace to sign up for this.
Claire Petit will be walking students through her career in Veterinary Medicine and sharing valuable insights into this career pathway. She aims to share some interesting cases which she has experienced through her job and this will give students a great opportunity to ask questions about this interesting career path.
Other activities this week include a Science colouring competition in the Library at lunchtime and a Science show incursion for Year 7 and 8. Students should keep their eyes on the screens around school for information about any other events!
As there continues to be growing number of chickenpox cases in the Waverley community I urge all parents to monitor for signs and symptoms in their child.
Chickenpox begins with a sudden onset of slight fever, runny nose, feeling generally unwell and a skin rash.
The rash usually appears as small lumps that turn into blisters and then scabs, and appears over three to four days.
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your child we strongly encourage you seek medical attention. If you have any queries please don’t hesitate to contact the nursing staff at healthcentre@waverley.nsw.edu.au
This Winter period is particularly difficult for those members of our society experiencing homelessness. Waverley is having a Winter donation drive during Weeks 3, 4, 5 and 6 in August to support the Matthew Talbot Hostel.
Matthew Talbot Hostel is a wonderful organisation helping over 40,000 Sydney men each year in providing accommodation, health, counselling and employment assistance.
Waverley has had a long history of boys volunteering in its kiosk in Woolloomooloo. All boys from all Houses from Years 5-12 are encouraged to bring in toiletry and other essential items on the list below in order to be able to provide packs for the homeless and marginalised groups which the Matthew Talbot Hostel provides assistance for.
Matthew Talbot Winter Appeal – Donation item list:
Toiletry pack Items – small traveller size for items is best
Home Starter Kit Items: These are prepared and distributed to the men when they move out of the Hostel into more settled accommodation. New items are ideal, but used/clean items in good condition are also fine.
Clothing
Items desired as new, or very good condition:
Items required to be new:
All items can be brought to either the Senior School Wellbeing Centre or Junior school reception in weeks 3-6 between August 5-29.
Preparations are ramping up for the highly anticipated Blue and Gold Ball on Saturday, 24 August, with every dollar raised going towards the construction of a state-of-the-art Science & Innovation Centre.
To ensure the night is a great success, we are seeking volunteers to assist with the event bump-in on Friday, 23 August.
If you can spare a couple of hours to help we would be incredibly grateful! To view volunteer opportunities, click HERE.
Thank you for your generosity and commitment to our school community!
Waverley College Events Team
events@waverley.nsw.edu.au
We are thrilled to announce that despite numerous challenges such as material shortages, shipment delays, and production issues, we finally have the pavers onsite. We are optimistic that the pavers will be laid by mid to late August.
As communicated a few weeks ago, we will be organising a paver unveiling event with complimentary food and drinks for everyone who has purchased a paver and their families. We will confirm the date with you in the coming weeks.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has purchased a paver, as your support is invaluable in helping us achieve our fundraising goals.
If you would like to leave a lasting legacy at Waverley College, there are still pavers available for purchase.
All purchases are tax-deductible and will directly support the construction of our state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Centre.
This facility will place Waverley College at the forefront of science and technology education, providing our students with unparalleled opportunities to excel in STEM fields.
Thank you for your continued support.
Our Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction is open to everyone (even if you’re not attending the Ball)!
There’s dozens of incredible prizes on offer, but not for much longer – the Silent Auction will close at 9pm AEST tomorrow night (24 August).
Proudly sponsored by This is Africa, LJ Hooker, OrthoBoutique, The POP Team, Bondi Gin Co, Penny’s Hotel and Neeson Murcutt Neille.
Look around the site HERE and get involved by bidding on some of our amazing auction items, generously donated by families and businesses in our College community.
We have over 50 items on offer with a few incredible standouts:
Live Auction items include:
We also have two exceptional raffle prizes on offer!
2025 Waverley College Tuition Fees – worth in the region of $20,000
Blue Salt Bespoke Pearl and Diamond Earrings – valued at $3,350
To purchase raffle tickets and go into the draw to winning these incredible prizes, CLICK HERE.
Thanks to our incredible sponsors who have helped to make our Silent Auction and the Blue and Gold Ball really come to life!
Waverley College is very excited to have the support of our major event sponsor – This is Africa
Having represented African tour operators in Australia since 1995, the director of This is Africa and his team have over 40 years of combined knowledge and experience in promoting Africa. As a result, This is Africa offers creative and innovative itineraries which will make your African journey as interesting as your destination!
We are also incredibly lucky to have LJ Hooker Bondi as a Platinum event sponsor.
LJ Hooker has long been a trusted and well established Real Estate agency in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs, committed to providing customers with exceptional service. Principal agent Marina Makhlin has a deep understanding of the local market stemming from a lifetime spent living and working in the area, and provides expert advice and guidance to customers so they can make well-informed decisions.
A huge thanks to OrthoBoutique – a long-time supporter of Waverley College and also a Platinum sponsor of the 2024 Blue and Gold Ball. OrthoBoutique‘s main goal is to provide high quality orthodontic treatments, by applying the most innovative technology and the best available state of the art resources. With OrthoBoutique, you’ll achieve a spectacular smile and functional bite to help improve confidence and lifelong oral health!
The school would also like to extend its gratitude to The Pop Team – the Gold sponsor for the Blue and Gold Ball. The POP Team is your IT Dream. They help growing to medium sized businesses by being your IT Team. Waverley College parents Peter Emmanouilidis and Leisha Major along with their team can help you with your IT strategy, protect with Cyber Security and optimise your AI investment with Copilot for Microsoft 365.
Thank you to Penny’s Hotel – our Bronze sponsor for the 2024 Blue and Gold Ball. Penny’s is your local haven for dining, entertainment, and connection. As a proud community hub, Penny’s offers a warm and welcoming space where you can enjoy everything from live music and trivia nights to exclusive dining deals and a vibrant sports bar. Their dedicated team is committed to serving up delicious food, refreshing drinks, and friendly service in an atmosphere that feels like home.
We’re thrilled to have Bondi Gin Co as a Bronze sponsor. Inspired by the beautiful beach we call home, Bondi Gin Co Australian Dry Gin immediately sets itself up as a modern Aussie classic. A citrus forward gin that will flourish in a Gin & Tonic yet stands up strong in a Negroni and Martini. The unique combination of 10 Botanicals (Juniper, Angelica, Coriander, Cassia, Lavender, Fresh Orange, Pink Grapefruit, Peppermint Gum, Pepper Berry, Sea Parsley) blend exquisitely together resulting in a truly unique drop that reflects the taste of Summer.
Neeson Murcutt Neille architects have very generously come on board as a Bronze sponsor of our Blue and Gold Ball. NMN Architects is an energetic, design based architectural firm recognised for design excellence, having received a number of prestigious awards. NMN has worked on a range of project types from bespoke houses to multi-unit housing, tourism projects, and public and community commissions for a high-profile clients, including the City of Sydney, Sydney Catholic Schools, and NSW National Parks. Their incredible display of projects can be viewed online at neesonmurcuttneille.com.
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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