As the academic year draws to a close, we look back with gratitude to all the people, our family and friends, who accompanied us throughout this year: who supported us in difficult moments, who helped us to learn and grow in our character, who were sources of joy and optimism and who brought inspiration and hope to our lives. We are also grateful for the many opportunities we have had this year to grow in resilience, humility and kindness, through serving others.

On Thursday 13th November, we had a special supper to thank the Class Parents for their hard work and dedication this year. We know that these Class Parents are points of unity in each year group, who help to bring together our school community, through friendship and by fostering dialogue amongst the parents of each grade.

The evening began with an insightful and inspiring talk on Hope from Fr. JP, Chaplain of Warrane College. Fr JP reminded us that the essence of Hope is trusting in God’s promises and how Hope can blossom and grow even in moments of great hardship – it was a good reminder for us all, as we are nearing the end of this year of Hope.

This was followed by a scrumptious supper, and then a session by Dr Malabanan recapping the highlights of 2025, and sharing some of the exciting plans to look forward to in 2026. Finally, we had a talk by Christina and Coy Tapang, the class parents of the Graduating Class of 2025, who imparted some pearls of wisdom from their many years as Class Parents.

I would especially like to thank Mrs. Cat Abacum and Mrs. Mel Japon who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support our Class Parents in their important role.

Our Year 6 students were recently treated to a heartfelt incursion featuring three inspiring guest speakers who shared their personal experiences around the theme All Life Is Precious .

Mrs Hanna spoke with honesty and warmth about caring for a child with a disability, offering the students a glimpse into the beauty, challenges, and deep love that shape her journey. Mrs Reyes encouraged everyone to live generosity in everyday ways, touching hearts with the story of how she chose to celebrate her 18th birthday at an orphanage, reaching out to those who have little. Finally, Eva Lay shared how she lives her Christian vocation through simple but meaningful acts of presence, such as spending time with aged-care residents. The students listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and walked away feeling grateful for the chance to learn from such genuine and compassionate role models.

Mrs Christine Lay

Head of Primary Religion

During the September-October school holidays, 16 girls from our year 11 grade travelled to Cebu, Philippines to take part in a Service Project and give back to the Filipino community. We took part in lots of activities and were able to provide help to the people of Cebu. To kick off the project we went to Banilad Centre for Professional Development, a school for 200 girls, which provides professional training that will enable them to work in various professions such as hospitality, tourism and health. Throughout this year, we helped to raise funds which would build a canteen and study space for their students. While we were at the school, we painted a mural of bright and vibrant colours with native birds and flowers. We also repainted the curb lines for the school and weeded the entire driveway. We also visited ten families in the surrounding slums area. This experience was confronting but heartwarming as we were able to give them packages full of food and some aussie style TimTams and learn about the ways they lived. Back at the school we played volleyball with the girls and had a large fiesta on our last night. It was full of cultural games and food as well as getting to know the girls at the school alongside amazing performances from the Banilad girls as well as ourselves.

The next few days were spent in a small village called Cadulawan, located up the mountains of Cebu.  We visited the Cadulawan school where we taught first aid and CPR to 200 students from years 7 to 10. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the children made every session unforgettable. Beyond the classrooms we were welcomed into the homes of families from the school living in slum areas. We spent our time singing, dancing, sharing laughter and creating warm memories. We also held first ad workshops from the wider community in their village basketball court, which then turned into an intense but friendly basketball game against the Villagers. Overall our experience in Cadulawan was more than we ever hoped for.

We also visited the SOS Children's Village in Cebu, where we had the privilege to spend time with the orphans from this non-profit organisation. Prior to the orphanage visit, we met the Tangara students, and enjoyed Lechon, a Philippine delicacy, for lunch. This was a good opportunity for us to socialise with the Tangara girls, and build new friendships to create a connection between us and the Tangara community. During our visit to the SOS Children’s village in Cebu, we merged with the Tangara girls to play games like *‘paint me a picture of…’ and **‘get into groups of…’ which were great bonding activities with the orphans to engage in physical activity, and reward them with toys for their cooperative participation. This orphanage houses 80 children and youth, aged 3-25, and was established in 1979. The organisation was founded by an Austrian man, Dr. Hermann Gmeiner, with the goal to provide homes to neglected children displaced after World War II. Despite their difficult upbringings, their resilience and positive outlook was truly inspiring to see. We were warmly welcomed by both the children and caretakers, and we were deeply touched by their high spirits in their enthusiastic and joyous performances. It was a privilege to be able to spend time with these special young people, and definitely left an impactful change on all of us.

Overall the Philippines Service Project was an amazing experience for us all and we are all really grateful to the leaders, Dr Mal, Miss Emmanuel and Teresa Lynch for enabling us to be able to go. - Charlotte, Regine and Lauren

Throughout this year, 25 girls from Years 9 and 10 have been volunteering their time to help teach Scripture Classes in 2 local Primary Schools in Orchard Hills and Jordan Springs. Each week, a group of girls would help to prepare lessons and activities, and during lunch time, they would go to these 2 schools and teach. Throughout this year, we have received some positive feedback about how engaging the lessons were, and how much the children appreciated their classes.

On 31 October, these girls were invited by Bishop Vincent to a special mass and ceremony to thank the girls for their work and dedication in helping to share their faith with others. They were joined by high school students from 19 schools in the Parramatta Diocese. We would like to thank all these Year 9 and 10 volunteers, as well as Mrs. Devine, Mrs. Bartolo, Dr Mal and Mrs. Bernacer for helping to facilitate this very worthwhile initiative in our school.

Congratulations to the following students who received Principal's Award this term:

As we draw closer to the end of another school year, many of our students are experiencing that familiar mix of relief, excitement, and reflection. For our Secondary students, the completion of exams marked an important milestone; a moment to pause and recognise the effort, determination, and focus they have shown throughout the term.

This time of year offers a wonderful opportunity to highlight the virtue of gratitude. A quality that strengthens wellbeing, builds connection, and helps young people finish well. Gratitude invites us to notice the good around us: the people who support us, the progress we’ve made, and the moments of learning and growth that shape us.

When children learn to practise gratitude, they become more resilient, more hopeful, and more aware of the blessings in their daily lives. Even small acts of appreciation can lift their mood, strengthen relationships, and foster a positive outlook that will support them long after the school year ends.

As parents, there are many meaningful ways we can nurture gratitude at home during these final weeks:

Gratitude helps us slow down, recognise the blessings of the school year, and give thanks for the many moments of learning, friendship, and perseverance that have shaped our children.

On Friday the 28th our students will be able to experience this firsthand during our Gratitude Afternoon, where they will participate in activities designed to build kindness, reflection, and connection. Moments like these help strengthen our community and encourage students to finish the year with a thankful heart.

Gratitude is a virtue that nurtures both character and wellbeing. It reminds us to see the good around us, to acknowledge those who walk beside us, and to recognise that each step of growth is a gift.

As we approach the end of term, may gratitude guide us in celebrating how far our students have come and the community that supports them every day.

Please mark these dates for the Term 1 2026 Key Parent Functions.  More information will be provided next year

Week 7

Week 8

Week 9

Congratulations to our latest Problem-a-thon Champions:

Elena I (KS) for the second time in a row and Maria T (KB).

The kindys are learning to say and write simple sentences in Spanish this week. Our focus has been on animals and we have been practising with these posters in class. Students have been learning to say in Spanish " I see a... " followed by animal names. They thoroughly enjoyed the activity and were proud to put in practice everything they have been learning.

Have a wonderful day!

This year, our Year 6 students have discovered the beauty of praying with the Gospels in meaningful and joy-filled ways. From thoughtfully preparing prayers for our weekly assemblies—always guided by the liturgical seasons—to creating both the Lenten and now the 7 Days of Advent mini-podcast episodes. In each episode, the students read and reflect on a passage from the Bible, write their own heartfelt insights for the younger students in Primary, and offer simple, practical ways to live out the message each day. Through these experiences, they are truly learning their faith, loving their faith, and living their faith.

Mrs Lay

On Thursday 27th November, our Kindergarten to Year 2 students enjoyed one of the happiest days of the year — our Infants Water Fun Day ! While the Primary students were away at the Swimming Carnival, our little learners had their very own morning of sunshine, squeals, and splash-filled fun.

From the moment the first water droplets hit the air, the playground was buzzing with excitement. Teachers created a wonderful range of activities that had everyone laughing, cheering and cooling off as they rotated through each station. Some of the favourites included:

The sound of joyful shrieks, splashing feet and happy chatter made it clear — our Water Fun Day was a huge hit . Every child was safely “sprinkled, not soaked,” and left the event with a big smile and an even bigger sense of fun and friendship.

We hope this was a highlight for your child and a bright spot in their final weeks of Term 4. A huge thank you to our wonderful teachers for preparing such creative, engaging activities, and to our students for bringing all the joy, energy and enthusiasm that made the morning unforgettable.

We can’t wait to do it all again next year!

Mrs Penny Gabin

On Wednesday 26th November, Year 9 students competed in the annual History Teachers' Association Stage 5 History Mastermind Competition. The competition was held at Tara Anglican School with 38 schools from across Sydney competing in a series of questions based on the NSW Stage 5 syllabus.

This year the competition was fierce and even though we didn't make the finals, our students gave their best efforts and proudly represented Montgrove College. Highlights of the day included the fun individual rounds of competition, including 'Flags of the World', 'True or False?' and 'Who am I?' quizzes. Teachers were also involved in the fun, with Mrs Southern volunteering to mark the trivia rounds and even winning the teachers' 'Who am I?' quiz, answering Julia Gillard correctly!

A big thank you to our students who studied and gave it their all during the competition and we look forward to participating again next year!

As part of the PDHPE curriculum, our Year 7 and Year 9 students participated in a Swim Safety Excursion at Ripples St Marys during week 6. Year 9 attended on Monday 17th, followed by Year 7 on Tuesday, with both groups engaging in a full day of practical, hands-on learning focused on water safety.

Throughout the day, students rotated through a series of activity stations designed to build confidence and essential skills around the water. These stations included basic swimming techniques, safe entries and jumps, lifejacket (PFD) use, simple water rescues, and foundational first aid, including an introduction to CPR.

The program was both educational and enjoyable, giving students the opportunity to learn valuable life skills in a supportive environment. We are proud of the enthusiasm and positive attitude shown by all students, and we hope these skills will help them stay safe and confident around water.

First off, a huge thank you to our outgoing committee for all the time, effort and passion you’ve given to the club. A big welcome to our new committee members for the 2026 season.

Registrations for the 2026 Winter Season will open early January. Please download the Stack Team App and like us on Facebook to stay updated with all our news and support with registration.

New Communication App – STACK TEAM APP!

We’re excited to share that all club communication will now be through the STACK TEAM APP! It’s essential that every member joins, as this is where you’ll find all updates.

How to Join Wollemi FC on the Stack Team App:

2026 Season Coaches & Managers

We’re offering a $50 discount on one player’s 2026 registration to thank our amazing volunteers and encourage more members to step up as coaches and managers.

To qualify for this discount:

Team Formation Policy

In line with the decision made at the AGM, we are now holding a member consultation period for the proposed policy. We invite all members to review the document and provide feedback by 30 November 2025. A copy of the policy has been emailed to all members.If you have not received it or would like another copy, please contact us at info@wollemifc.com.au .

Thanks again to everyone for your continued support — here’s to another fantastic year ahead with Wollemi FC!

Shane Leggatt on behalf of Wollemi Football Club Committee

info@wollemifc.com.au

Aloha Sports Campers,

We are very excited to organise this event and are looking forward to continuing to grow Sports Camp here at Wollemi College.

Please see below for additional announcements / reminders:

The following activities and more will be on offer at sports camp.

There are still many available slots for SPORTS CAMP! If you know anybody else that would like to sign up, please feel free to share the poster or the link below:

Click here to Register

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to Mr Berryman jacob.berryman@wollemi.nsw.edu.au or Mr Uyeda dustin.uyeda@wollemi.nsw.edu.au

Mr Berryman and Mr Uyeda

PS: SPORTS CAMP, SPORTS CAMP, SPORTS CAMP!

Hi all Dads

Let's make some noise and end the year in style (Christmas-style that is!)

Open to all Dads of all musical skill levels from minus 10 to plus 10!

Hope to see you there!

All year 10 parents and daughters are invited to join us for a Christmas celebration dinner

When: 29th November

Time:  7:00pm

Where: 39 Gosling St, Emu Heights

RSVP: 21st November to Tina 0402 619 250 or Tam 0402135158

Please bring a dish to share! See you all!

Summer Holiday 2026 Trading Hours:

Ordering online couldn’t be simpler.

Go to www.midford.com.au

NOTE: Choosing home delivery is the fastest way of receiving your orders and home delivery is free for all orders over $50.

Please book appointments through our online appointment system by using the link. https://Midford.as.me/MontgroveCollege

For enquiries please email: montgrove@midford.com.au