The Roar - Issue 25 Term 3 2025

Contents

Head of College - Mr Richard Ford

Last weekend brought with it two stellar outings for our 1st XI Soccer Team and Symphonic Winds as both groups headed to Sydney to compete.

The 1st XI took on St Patrick’s College and secured a 4-1 win, which saw the boys come out on top in their division of the ISA Football Competition. Thank you to Mr Nick Davis for his excellent coaching throughout the season, and congratulations to all players on their wonderful sportsmanship and determination.

The College’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble took to the stage at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre as part of the NSW State Band Championships. Remarkably, students took out each of the three sections they entered. Thank you to Ms Sargeant, Music staff and students for your dedication to continual improvement and for the joy which your music brings to so many occasions.

Over the next few weeks, we are looking forward to seeing parents and grandparents at a number of special community events. We encourage you to register at your earliest opportunity to help the College with planning.

 

Finally, well done to all students and staff who embraced Book Week at the Senior School. The Escape Rooms, door decorations and dress-ups all showed enormous creativity. Thank you to Mrs Davis for coordinating the activities last week at Junior School and then again this week at Senior School.

Mr Richard Ford
Head of College

Chaplain

“We are not to simply bandage the wounds of victims beneath the wheels of injustice; we are to drive a spoke into the wheel itself.” Those are the words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German Christian pastor who was killed by the Nazis under Hitler’s orders, two weeks before the end of the Second World War. Bonhoeffer’s meaning was: assisting those who suffer is great, but putting an end to injustice and evil is God’s real desire.

We heard the story of Bonhoeffer in Senior Chapel this week, and we took from his life four truths. They are almost perfectly aligned with our College values.

Firstly, Bonhoeffer stood up for the truth – at great personal cost. If we desire to be a community in which each person is respected and safe, then we, too, need to be prepared to speak up for others, even if it costs us. Secondly, Bonhoeffer’s choices flowed from compassion. Though he could have escaped Germany to safer shores, he chose to remain with his people through an immensely difficult time. We were challenged to consider how that looks in our context; are there ways we can comfort those who suffer? Thirdly, Bonhoeffer valued justice. So much, in fact, that he was involved in secret plots working against Hitler to rescue Jews, and even to assassinate Hitler himself (for which Bonhoeffer was ultimately killed).

All those things grew from Bonhoeffer’s unshakable hope in Jesus. And just before he met his untimely end, he announced to his fellow prisoners, “This is the end – for me, the beginning of life”. Bonhoeffer’s fearless courage to do what is right was built on his confidence that eternal life with Jesus was his, no matter what happened to him on this earth.

Isn’t it extraordinary the hope and courage that Jesus offers?

Operation Christmas Child

Thank you to all families across the school who have supported the Operation Christmas Child initiative. Another bake sale will run next Thursday in the Senior School to raise funds for postage, with students from 7C contributing goodies to sell. Those families and students wishing to fill their own box can speak to me or Mr Walsh.

Mr Daniel Odell
College Chaplain

Senior School

Year 10 Students Dusted Off

On Thursday of this week, Year 10 students attended Brett Hunt’s performance of Dusted Off. The performance tells the story of his father, Frank Hunt, a Vietnam veteran mentioned in the lyrics of the song I Was Only Nineteen.

Through music and storytelling, Brett shared both the camaraderie of soldiers and the challenges they faced — including PTSD, family struggles, and society’s indifference.

Combining 1960s Aussie rock hits with personal history, he showed how his parents, Frank and Connie, fought to rebuild their lives after Vietnam

The performance provided students with a powerful insight into the Vietnam War’s impact on veterans, their families, and the broader Australian community.

In attendance was Mr David Robinson, a Vietnam Veteran and grandfather to Angus and Digby Oldham.

On behalf of students and staff, I would like to express my sincere thanks to David for making the trip over from Young and for his willingness to share his experience and knowledge of the Vietnam War.

Mr Hugh Hunter
HSIE Teacher

Bonjour Bathurst – A Conversation with Scout Cobrough

One of the joys of Bonjour Bathurst is the chance to sit down with people, especially people not much older than us, who have taken on the challenge of learning another language and are now seeing their hard work rewarded.

This week, we had the privilege of speaking with Scout Cobrough, a former student of St Andrew’s School in Sydney and an alumna of Macquarie University. Scout recently returned from living in France, and she generously shared with us her experiences abroad, as well as her reflections on the journey of learning a language.

Her insights were inspiring, showing not only the opportunities that come with speaking another language but also how it can shape confidence, open doors, and influence the path ahead.

We are grateful to Scout for giving us her time and sharing her story with Bonjour Bathurst.

Next week, we will be visiting the French Embassy, L’Alliance Française in Canberra, and the Cézanne exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia. We look forward to bringing you the highlights from our day in Canberra.

Click HERE to watch the video

The Bonjour Bathurst Team

Junior School

Father’s Day Breakfast
On Thursday 4 September at 8:00 am, we welcome all of the dads of our Prep and Kindergarten students in for a special Father’s Day Breakfast. The breakfast will start at 8:00 am and will be held in the Preparatory School playground.

Combined Independent Schools (CIS) Athletics Carnival
Congratulations and good luck to all of our top athletes who have been selected in the Heads of Independent Co-Educational Schools (HICES) Athletics team to represent at the CIS Athletics Carnival on Friday 5 September.

Year 5 Experience Senior School Day
On Friday 12 September, our Year 5 students, along with many other Year 5 students from across the region, will be spending the day in the Senior School. This day provides the students with the opportunity to find out what Senior School is all about.

Use of School Play Equipment Before School (8:30 am) and After School (3:15 pm)
Students and their younger siblings are not allowed to play on the school’s play equipment before 8:30 am or after 3:15 pm unless they are being directly supervised by a teacher.

Sign in for Students Who Are Late to School
Any children who are being dropped off at school after 9:00 am need to please sign in at Front Reception before they go to class.

Mr Chris Jackman
Head of Junior School

Sports

Sports Draw

Well done to Vesper Pearce, who proudly represented CIS at the NSW All Schools Touch Football Championships on Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 August.

Vesper Pearce at the NSW All School Touch Football Championships

The CIS team finished the round matches with two wins and two losses, securing a spot in the finals. In a tightly contested match, CIS emerged victorious over CCC with a thrilling 5–4 win, securing the NSW All Schools Championship title.

Congratulations, Vesper, on this fantastic achievement.

At this week’s Senior School Assembly, we proudly recognised our Athletics Age Champions from the recent carnival. Congratulations to all Age Champions and record breakers on their outstanding performances!

12 Years Girls: Francis Slack-Smith Champion, Lucy Croker Runner-Up

12 Years Boys: William Healey Champion, Jacky Chen Runner-Up

13 Years Girls: Juliet Erickson Champion, Paige Moffitt Runner-Up

13 Years Boys: Harrison Pointon Champion, Murray Worthington Runner-Up

14 Years Girls: Amelia Kirby Champion, Olive Moppett Runner-Up

14 Years Boys: Matias Ruidiaz Champion, Jedd Davies Runner-Up

15 Years Girls: Vesper Pearce Champion, Charlotte Yates Runner-Up

15 Years Boys: Joseph Baraz Runner-Up

16 Years Girls: Lolita Barrett Champion, Zoe-Grace Boss-Walker Runner-Up

16 Years Boys: Kynan Denness Champion, Archie Kleinschafer Runner-Up

17 Years Girls: Emily Tallentire Champion, Abigail Smith Runner-Up

17 Years Boys: Albert Telford Champion, Marcus Wythes Runner-Up

Senior Girls: Kate Bartlett Champion, Sophia Burke Runner-Up

Senior Boys: Angus Argent-Smith Champion, Angus Dowton Runner-Up

Records

Juliet Erickson: 13 Years Girls – 400m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, Javelin & High Jump

Olive Moppett: 14 Years Girls – Javelin

Lucy Tallentire: 15 Years Girls – 800m, 1500m, 3000m

Emily Tallentire: 17 Years Girls – 800m, 1500m, 3000m

Ashley Mullins: 17 Years Girls – Discus

Felix Moore: 13 Years Boys – 200m and Long Jump

Vin Pearce: 13 Years Boys – 800m

Murray Worthington: 13 Years Boys – High Jump and Javelin

Matias Ruidiaz: 14 Years Boys – 100m, 200m, 400m

Benjamin Lenehan: 14 Years Boys – 800m, 1500m

Jedd Davies: 14 Years Boys – High Jump

Drew Barnett: 15 Years Boys – Shot Put

Kynan Denness: 16 Years Boys – 1500m and 3000m

Archie Kleinschafer: 16 Years Boys – Discus

Joe Jeffress: 16 Years Boys – Javelin

Marcus Wythes: 17 Years Boys – Javelin

Angus Argent-Smith: Senior Boys – 800m

Baxter Killiby: Senior Boys – Discus

Zephir Valsain: Senior Boys – Javelin

A huge congratulations to our First XI Football team, who claimed a brilliant 4–1 victory over St Patrick’s College in the Grand Final at Marconi Club on Saturday. It was a thrilling contest, with our boys showing composure under early pressure before taking control of the match.

This achievement is especially impressive, considering it is only the second year the team has competed in the ISA competition, and being crowned Premiers is a testament to their hard work and determination.

Thank you to all staff and parents for their unwavering support throughout the season.

We also extend our best wishes to the Under 12 Red, Under 12 Blue, and Under 13 Football teams as they kick off their finals campaigns this weekend in the Bathurst Football Competition. This six-team finals series will run over the next four weeks. A win this weekend will secure another week of football.

Mr Beau McClintock
Director of Sport and Activities

Book Buzz

The Book Week celebrations continued this week. On the Junior campus in our Year 3-6 lessons, we tried our hand at some shadow judging of the Children’s Book Council of Australia shortlist. The verdict? So many exciting new books to check out from the library!

Over on the Senior campus, we celebrated books with a range of fun activities. Students enjoyed Escape Rooms at lunch time, while staff dressed up and got in on the fun, dressing as adventurous book characters in keeping with this year’s theme ‘Book an Adventure’. Our Senior campus faculties also put a great deal of thought and effort into decorating their doors this year with some adventurous and creative displays. Be sure to check out all the photos from our fortnight of Book Week celebrations.

The Roar Recommends

Junior Campus
Younger Readers

One Little Dung Beetle by Heather Potter and Mark Jackson

Older Readers

Fluff Mess Up! by Matt Stanton

Senior Campus
Junior Readers

Sense and Second-Degree Murder by Tirzah Price

Senior Readers

Paper Towns by John Green

Happy Reading!

Mrs Angela Davis
Head of Library Services

Careers

Do you want to be a Veterinarian?

There are limited Vet courses in Australia, but one of these degrees is offered at James Cook University in Townsville.

Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)

Would you like to learn more about the course structure, the application process, and the future demand for jobs in this sector? Join JCU at their upcoming live webinar on 9 September, where the Head of Veterinary Sciences at JCU will provide insight on:

  • The Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) at JCU offers a range of course subjects, unique hands-on learning experiences, and diverse placement opportunities that our students enjoy.
  • The specialised rural and tropical veterinary science skills that students develop during their studies at JCU set them apart in the job market.
  • The range of exciting career opportunities available to JCU Veterinary Science graduates, both at home and overseas, and the forecasted job growth prospects.
  • The application process and key dates for applying to the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours), plus tips to help your students submit a standout application.
  • The Rural Access Scheme and student eligibility criteria for applying.

During the webinar, you will also hear from a current JCU Veterinary Science student who will share their experiences of studying at JCU, including the application process and highlights of their degree.

School staff, students and their families are all invited to attend, and are encouraged to send through any questions they may have during the live webinar.

Webinar Details

Date: 9 Tuesday September 2025

Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm (AEST)

Join via Zoom. Watch the webinar via phone, tablet, or other computing device (no webcam needed).

Register today

CSU Open Day 2025, Orange

Organisation: Charles Sturt University

Location: CSU Orange Campus

Date: 31 August 2025

Discover what uni life is like! Whether you’re in high school, looking to upskill, want to change careers, or are a parent, teacher or carer, there’s something for everyone.

  • Jump on a campus tour – explore our facilities and accommodation.
  • Get detailed info about courses.
  • Chat to current students about Charles Sturt life.
  • Be inspired by our expert teaching staff.
  • Discover the social side of life at Charles Sturt.
  • Enjoy live entertainment, giveaways, competitions and free food!

Plus, you can explore our expo, info, and career and skills hubs. Chat to our friendly teams about our support services, early offer programs and how to boost your hiring potential.

Find out more and register

UAC

How to apply for uni through UAC as a Year 12 student

Step-by-step guide for domestic Year 12 students applying to university through UAC.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZzUEGpCJAE

Steps to Apply to Uni – UAC

If you’re unsure about what you’d like to do when you finish school, and are wondering if university is for you, you’re not alone. Just remember that uni isn’t only for the brightest students or for those with a specific career path in mind. Uni is for anyone who’s committed to reaching their full potential and wants to acquire the skills and experience to achieve their goals.

Keep your options open by taking the time to understand how the university application process works, how institutions use the ATAR to select students, non-ATAR pathways to tertiary study, and the many levels of financial support available to you.

https://www.uac.edu.au/future-applicants/year-11-and-12-students

Financing Your Tertiary Studies

University of Wollongong 2025 Scholarship Listing on Offer for Future Students

UOW scholarships and grants demonstrate the University’s commitment to excellence, equity and diversity.

Future Student Scholarships

  • Academic Excellence
  • Academic
  • Equity
  • Community/Equity
  • Community
  • Corporate
  • Work Integrated Learning
  • Sporting

https://scholarships.uow.edu.au/scholarships/listing

Country Education Scholarships – Plenty to Choose

A scholarship can help you get on your way to achieving your further study dreams by covering the costs of textbooks, course fees, equipment, accommodation and living costs. Scholarships are not just about money, either – the application process will give you vital skills that will transfer when it comes to applying for jobs and will make you a great candidate. Another thing you will gain from a successful scholarship application is confidence. The knowledge that a panel of people believe in your skills and ability will drive you for years. Search and apply for scholarships right here with CEF’s Scholarships Guide. And remember, you’ll never know if you don’t give it a go!

https://cef.org.au/search-for-scholarships/

TAFE NSW Scholarships Support Students to Study

Everyone deserves the opportunity to explore their talents and to fulfil their potential. Regardless of your circumstances, you deserve the chance to create a better future through education and training. Every year, we award hundreds of scholarships to our students, so make this year your year to be rewarded.

https://www.tafensw.edu.au/scholarships

Macquarie Leaders and Achievers Early Entry Scheme – Closing Soon

Final Round Applications close 2 September

Students could receive an early entry offer to study at Macquarie if they have performed well academically in Year 11 and can demonstrate leadership skills, personal development and dedication through extracurricular activities.

https://www.mq.edu.au/study/admissions-and-entry/pathways/schemes/leaders-achievers

Macquarie University Course Update – Bachelor of History

The Bachelor of History offers a dynamic exploration of the human experience – from ancient civilisations to contemporary global societies. Built around a multidisciplinary core and four comprehensive majors, the degree allows students to tailor their studies to their passion – be it ancient or modern history, archaeology, or public history and heritage. Furthermore, the degree is shaped by insights from cultural heritage professionals, and includes internships, museum work, fieldwork and digital projects. Together, these ensure students graduate with practical, job‑ready skills, ready to think analytically and work with emerging technologies. Career outcomes include working in policy, media, education, heritage or beyond.

https://www.mq.edu.au/study/find-a-course/courses/bachelor-of-history

FREE HSC Revision Webinars

ACU – English Standard Revision Webinar (NSW)

8 September

Learn from experienced Year 12 exam markers and assessors with our free Year 12 English Standard revision webinar. This webinar will cover the English Standard module C: The Craft of Writing. Please note: this is for Year 12 students in New South Wales.

https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/2025/september/english-standard-revision-webinar-nsw

ACU – Mathematics Standard 2 Revision Webinar (NSW)

8 September

Give your exam preparation a boost with our free Year 12 Mathematics Standard 2 revision webinar. This webinar will cover Algebra, measurement, and more challenging HSC questions.

https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/2025/september/mathematics-standard-2-revision-webinar-nsw

ACU – Business Studies Revision Webinar (NSW)

9 September

Deepen your understanding with our free Year 12 Business Studies revision webinar. Give your exam preparation a boost with our free Year 12 Business Studies revision webinar. This webinar will cover: Business Studies topics 3 and 4: Finance and Human Resources.

https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/2025/september/business-studies-revision-webinar-nsw

ACU – Biology Revision Webinar (NSW)

10 September

Pick up exam tips and strategies with our free Year 12 Biology revision webinar. This webinar will cover: Biology modules 7 and 8: Infectious disease and Non-infectious disease, and disorders.

https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/2025/september/biology-revision-webinar-nsw

Holiday Workshop – The Songwriter’s Toolkit, Sydney

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music

Location: AIM Sydney Campus

Date: 3 October 2025

Created for students in Years 9-12, AIM’s new high school music workshops provide incredible opportunities to explore songwriting, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators.

This songwriting workshop is essential for any high school student curious about writing songs and performing, and is a golden opportunity to work with incredibly accomplished songwriters. Join us during these school holidays and discover the songwriter and performer you were born to become.

Find out more and register

Mrs Helen Jones
Career Development Officer

Events & Announcements

Term Dates for 2026

Term dates for 2026 are now viewable on the Parent Portal on our website under Calendar and Dates.

Click HERE to access the PDF



Click HERE to purchase tickets


To purchase tickets click HERE


To register click HERE


To register click HERE


For more details click HERE



For more information click HERE

Calendar

Friday 29 August
Senior School Book Week

Monday 1 September
P&F Meeting Senior School 7:00pm

Wednesday 3 September
French and Art Excursion to Canberra

Thursday 4 September
Prep and Kindy Father’s Day Breakfast
Write A Book in a Day
Netball Schools Cup Regionals
National All Breeders Heifer Show

Friday 5 September
Senior School Father’s Day Breakfast Aikman Hall
National All Breeders Heifer Show

Saturday 6 September
Pipes and Drums Ceilidh Aikman Hall

The latest Term Dates can be found on our website HERE

SS: Senior School   JS: Junior School

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