I spent this week at the National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) National conference in Melbourne. With over 1400 delegates from across the country, I have been privileged to be immersed in current understandings of Catholic education's nature, its connection to the broader Church, and its contribution to society. 

The theme was "The Future is Listening. " The opening keynote address was a joint presentation by Fr Anthony Gittens, who celebrates 60 years of priesthood, and Madeline Forde, an impressive young person in her mid-twenties. Madeline was appointed to an international youth advisory body established by the Vatican. 

Their presentation emphasised the need to listen to young voices and to walk with them as they explore the "big questions" of life. It also explored the distinction between "good religion" and "bad religion" and the importance of spirituality to the young, especially. The need to be open and not to stay "barricaded behind our certainty" is a message that Ms. Forde emphasised. 

Other workshops included exploring the recently released (this week) paper on Identity and Gender, a well-researched document that will inform pastoral responses to this highly charged and increasingly more prominent issue.

A most entertaining keynote was provided by Dr. Jordan Nguyen, a young Australian biomedical engineer, and inventor whose achievements include creating a mind-controlled wheelchair. He is committed to improving the lives of as many people as possible and helping become a driving force behind human and technological evolution as we move into the future. His work is the subject of several documentaries, and I would encourage searching youtube for one titled: "Becoming Superhuman."

Throughout, the importance of the role of Catholic education leadership to continue to serve, support, and encourage our students was drummed into us.

The College hosted over 400 students at the "It Takes a Spark" STEM conference last Friday. The way staff and volunteer students responded to the extra responsibilities asked of them filled me with admiration. And if that and attending TASC Quality Assurance meetings wasn't enough, we also ensured the Year 10 Dinner was a success. This, too, had exemplary generosity in evidence with staff and volunteer students setting up, catering, and serving.

Finally, if we thought the week wasn't full enough, staff supported our Tournament of Minds Team as they traveled to Hobart over the weekend.

As I reflect upon this selfless service, I believe our College has heeded the call echoed throughout the NCEC conference. 

Stay safe, keep happy, and I will keep us in my prayers.

Frank Pisano

Congratulations to our NSATIS Athletics team who took to the track today at Penguin. The team competed across all track and field events against schools from across the North and North West. Well done to each student who participated and gave it their all! 

Today is R U OK? Day.

It is our National day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, 'are you OK?'

You don't need to be an expert to have an R U OK? Conversation, listening, and giving someone your time might be just what they need to help them through a rough patch.

Enjoy a Kit Kat and have a chit-chat.

Visit https://www.ruok.org.au/donate to show your support and aid in the prevention of suicide.

ASK / LISTEN / ENCOURAGE ACTION / CHECK-IN

Friday evening was our Year 10 students' time to celebrate with their cohort and enjoy the glitz and glamour of the Year 10 Dinner. Students were offered a delicious 3-course menu cooked by our Food and Hospitality staff and students and were able to dance the night away to their chosen tunes played by DJDanme!

Students will receive a link to view photos from the evening in the next few days.

The College Vinnies club is bringing back the Men's Bag drive this year! From 5-16 September, Homerooms collect donated items to create Men's Dignity Bags.

Some examples of items students and families can donate are:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Soap
• Roll-on deodorant
• Comb
• Sunscreen
• Pack of playing card
• Gloves, beanies, hats
• Socks
• Hand warmers
• 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
• Lip balm
• Sanitiser

Your generosity to this cause is greatly appreciated.

Our recent Trivia Night raised over $1700 for Warrawee Women's Shelter. The night would not have been as successful as it was without our fantastic sponsors donating prizes and of course all those who attended the night!

Lockdown Practice

During the next two weeks, we will hold a Lockdown practice drill with staff and students to test our response to a potential scenario. Staff will be talking to students about the College lockdown procedure, including what to do and examples of circumstances that would necessitate a lockdown (including extreme weather, dangerous animals, emergency events, and dangerous persons). 

Talking about the lockdown and participating in a lockdown drill can be upsetting and stressful. Students are encouraged to speak with their Teachers or one of our counselling staff about any concerns they may have. Naturally, parents/carers are also encouraged to talk with their children about this topic.

We have plans to make this practice as least disruptive as possible. 

Please do not hesitate to contact the College if you have any queries or concerns about this.

Northern Golf & Southern Country Golf Association are offering two junior golf tournaments during the October school holidays.

Golf Australia encourages you to support these tournaments.

All junior golfers are welcome.

Northern Golf – Student Championships

Where: Mowbray Golf Club

When: Friday 14th October

Golf Australia handicap required

Southern Country Golf Association – Junior Championships

Where: Colebrook Golf Club

When: Tuesday 11th October

Golf Australia handicap required for the 18 hole tournament

9 hole event open to all young/beginner golfers. (This will be played on a short course).

The 9-hole players do not require a Golf Australia handicap.

Please see attached entry form & details below

For all inquiries contact: Sam O'Keefe: sokeefe@sbsc.tas.edu.au 

2022 Scga Junior Championship Boys Girls