QUOTE: “BE LEAD BY YOUR GOALS AND NOT BY YOUR PROBLEMS!”

Dear Parents/Guardians;

The Long Weekend was certainly enjoyed by all if you go by the sounds of banter and laughter in the dorms and dining hall on Monday night/Tuesday morning. It certainly allowed the dorms to have a good airing in readiness as the boys re-grouped for the very busy final week back at the College.

It has been a huge term with the Half Yearly exams like a distant memory as all the boys are now well and truly into the second semester of work. Darren Frost and I have been pleased with the added maturity towards Senior Study found by many boys with only a few still being a little naïve about their responsibility and efforts in this important area.

The last week saw many assessments, capped off with a big effort from our boys on Friday night, doing the bulk of their packing and tidying up. Mind you, after they were finished, the excitement of the impending break, mixed with the male hormones of “Friday night before Footy” (particularly having not played for two weeks and even longer for some) made it more colourful than usual. It is entertaining, to say the least, to see how 171 sixteen or seventeen year olds amuse themselves with a wide range of activities and skills, (or lack of) on display!!.

On Wednesday morning 8^th June our Sports, Leisure and Recreation class went on a kayak excursion certainly testing out their mettle as the day served up cold, wet weather for them. Despite the conditions they got stuck into a long paddle and bush walk. The PDHPE staff  were very pleased with the boys’ efforts.

On Wednesday, Sam Clarke, Matt Hall, Tim Palmer and Gus Rae were selected to run in the NSW Combined Independent Schools Cross Country Carnival. All boys were happy with their performance in spite of the very muddy conditions at the Eastern Creek course.

Our commitment to the Matthew Talbot Hostel continued until the end of term with the following boys volunteering to serve the guests at Matt Talbot over the past two weeks: Friday, the 3^th June: Harrison Holgate, Lachlan Aston, Henry Birtwistle and Ross Davey and our last group on Friday, 17^th June seeing Clinton Slater, Andrew Raumer and Ben Chaplin. Well done, boys. Next term we will call for more volunteers from our boys to draw up the Term 3 and 4 Roster for this great experience.

A huge night of music was also held at the College on Friday night with all of our various Ensembles performing. Congratulations to all of these boys and the Music Staff for their dedicated and tireless efforts.

Saturday saw the last round of sport for the term against Scots and a host of other schools. We had some tough matches against some very good opponents which will be a good experience long term for our boys. Some of our boys were selected to represent the GPS in the representative games which take place this week. Congratulations to Sam Barclay (GPS 1sts), Josh Wilde (GPS 2nds) and Josh Kay, Tom Robertson and Tom Murphy (GPS 3^rds) whilst Josh Schwager was selected to play in the GPS U/16 side in Rugby. Matthew Alessi was selected in the GPS 2^nd X1 Football side. Good luck to all boys in your matches this week.

I would like to commend the boys for the way they were able to pack and clean up the dorms, a good effort. Good work on Friday night and then again on Saturday morning saw our boys well organized and commence leaving from 5.30pm with a huge sigh of relief from all. Of course, the odd pair of shoes, two bags, and millions of socks, have been left behind but all will be re-acquainted with them at the beginning of next term. Saturday night saw 21 boys remaining with boys departing on trains, planes and automobiles from first thing Sunday morning.

I have attached two lists of all of the locations our boys are involved in during their Ministry Week. I thought it would be interesting just to see the range of activities our boys are doing in what should be a wonderful experience for them.

We reminded our boys it is a normal but very important school week for them and any days of absence are to be phoned into the school, to my office please.

I do hope the stories your son shares with you from his experiences are enlightening for what has been a most successful experience in the past. Many thanks must go to Mrs. Mary Fogarty and Mrs. Helen Smith for their organization of this wonderful initiative. Each boy must ensure that these two forms must be handed back into the Director of Mission Office on the first day of their return next term.

There closes the end of another busy term in the lives of our boys. On their return at 8pm on Monday evening, 18^th July our boys commence their final term of their Year 11 Preliminary Course. Time certainly is flying and we keep stressing the importance of making the most of the opportunities as they come up, for they pass by ever so quickly! I would like to thank you for your support and understanding throughout the past term and wish you an enjoyable break, if you get one , with your families and I look forward to catching up with you in Term 3.

Take care

Jeremy.

QUOTE: “CONTINUOUS EFFORT – NOT STRENGTH OR INTELLIGENCE – IS THE KEY TO UNLOCKING OUR POTENTIAL”.

Dear Year 11 Parents,

Week 5 has been another very busy one, with a full weekend moving straight into a week with opportunities for the boys to participate in. Darren Frost and I were very pleased as to how the Information Night went last Saturday. Darren really presented a superb analysis and explanation of the HSC in simple layman terms that all appreciated.

The Parent Teacher Interviews were a great opportunity to reward, re-focus and re-direct our boys in their studies. Feedback is a wonderful thing as it certainly ensures that all can power ahead with some needing to confront the issues at hand a little closer in order to move forward. We will certainly ensure these processes continue in the educating of your sons.

MOBILE PHONES – One issue which has raised my ire lately is the attitude of the boys to mobile phones. Quite simply if boys need to have it on them to contact you during the day, they need to ask my permission and this should only occur if you need to pick them up for an appointment. Learning is being interrupted; organization which should have occurred way earlier is being used as excuses for having and using the phones in class. Quite simply, to ensure our boys’ learning is not unnecessarily interrupted they need to follow the above procedures, which they are well aware of. I have told the boys if they are using the phone indiscrimanently they will lose it for some time.

On Tuesday night we had the staging of the Career Expo held in the Brother Emilian Hall. All of our Year 11 boys attended to help them start thinking about career and future tertiary study opportunities. Congratulations must go to our Careers Counsellor, Mrs. Lorna Charters, for staging such a wonderful exhibition. Lorna received some most complimentary emails from presenters about our young men:

From a cadetship provider:

‘I was very impressed with the maturity of the students’.

From three different universities:

‘I had a strong level of interest from both students and parents.  I found the students very well-mannered and presented – a credit to the school.’

‘It was a really lovely evening and it was great that there were so many qualified, intelligent questions coming from the boys.’

‘All of the boys were polite and displayed an interest through asking varying questions.’

Last Thursday all Yr.11 were treated to a wonderful night as we went to this year’s Musical, Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and all the time given up during holiday periods as well as weekends was obviously worthwhile as adults and students greatly appreciated the production. Congratulations must go to the boys involved, and the Year 11 boys, Lawrence Nelmes, Oliver Coorey, Jason Ren (cast), Chris Spooner (who played the French Horn despite recently breaking his collarbone) and Nick Henry (musicians) and Brendon Follington and Luke Donlon (stage crew).

At our Headmaster’s Assembly today, our 1st XV Rugby and 1^st X1 Football teams were presented with their jerseys. Our guest this year was Mr John Healy who has been doing extraordinary work with our boys, voluntarily for the past 30 years. John was introduced by Mr James Grey, who has been a close friend and was with Br Anthony at Cumberland Oval back in 1978, as guests of then Parramatta club doctor, Peter Ferguson, when they were introduced to John, who was conditioning Parramatta at that time. John expressed how he would have loved to send his boys to Joeys, however due to circumstances, he could not. Two years later, circumstances changed and his youngest son, Paul was enrolled and he was closely followed by his older brother, Michael. Since 1981, John has trained our Rugby, Rowing and Athletics teams with great success. In the 30 years he has been associated with the College, the 1^st XV has been Premiers 19 times, 12 as Champions whilst the 2^nd XV has been Premiers 20 times. So highly has John been thought of by the Old Boys, he was made an Honorary Old Boy in 1987, the College Weight Room was named after him in 1992 and he was awarded the Order of Australia in 1998 for his Charitable works and his work with young men in Sporting Organisations. Br Anthony described John as more than a Conditioner, he was a teacher whose words delivered tremendous values and standards to all under his care.

John himself delivered some terrific messages to the boys. He spoke to them about having self discipline; to do what has to be done, as best as it can be done and do that always. The importance of having a winning attitude, in striving for excellence in all you do. And finally, allowing time for honest self-reflection, and honestly think about where you can improve and what areas you need to work on. He told the boys, no young men are failures; they are all a work in progress. Wise words for all our boys, as well as us teachers! The 1^st X1 Football team were presented with their shirts and the Year 11 boys representing the College in this team are Ed Dudley, Matthew Alessi, Jesse Fenech, Tom Booth and Magnus Heywood. John next presented the 1^st XV with their jerseys and the Yr 11 boys selected are Tom Robertson, Tom Murphy, Josh Schwager, Joshua Kay, Sam Barclay and Joshua Wilde. Congratulations to these boys and in fact to every boy who goes out there and plays his grand final, no matter what team he is in, every week.

Whilst on the topic of our winter sports I would like to remind you that on Saturdays during winter your son fulfils his own commitments and then he is seated with the rest of the College by 2.00pm. It is the expectation that once a boy arrives at his game he remains in the care of the College until after check off at the conclusion of the First XV match. This means that at home games he remains on College property and at away games he remains at the away venue. If there is a circumstance which requires a boy to leave our care during a Saturday, this permission must be sort from his Boarding Coordinator. I do appreciate your support in this matter.

Tonight our Fed Cup Debating team of Dom Price, Oliver Coorey Tim Palmer and Lewis Mullins will debate against Newington in the Grand Final. We wish them every success, whilst the remainder of the debating teams will be in action against Barker College.

Our commitment to Matt Talbot Hostel continues today with Harrison Holgate, Lachlan Aston, Henry Birtwistle and Ross Davey venturing across to assist the Homeless men of Sydney.

At our Division Meeting last week Mrs Di Stewart invited our boys to partake in the Marist Children Holiday Camp to be held at Joeys from the 8th – 11^th December. The boys can apply to be a Personal Companion for our special guests or a Activities Helper. A wonderful opportunity for our young men to really stretch themselves in their help of others. I am pleased to report that just over 80 of our young men have registered to be considered for this unique experience. They met with Di again last Wednesday and the next step is to complete a questionnaire on why they wish to participate in the Camp and from this final selection will take place.

A reminder about this Sunday, 5th June is the Champagnat Family Mass starting at 10am that all boys are to attend being free to leave after 11am. All boys are expected to be seated by 9.45am. The June Long Weekend sees our boys able to leave from 5.00pm on Thursday, 9th June with the boys booked on Countrylink buses leaving first thing Friday morning. Boys then return on Monday evening, 13^th June by 8pm with boys who normally return on Monday mornings, may return on Tuesday morning, 14^th June by 8am.

Please find attached the week’s Sports fixtures for your assistance. Look forward to seeing you over the weekend.

Regards

Jeremy

QUOTE: “THE ONLY GOOD LUCK MANY GREAT PEOPLE EVER HAD WAS BEING BORN WITH THE ABILITY AND DETERMINATION TO OVERCOME BAD LUCK”.

Dear Parents/Guardians;

Week 3 comes and goes and there is certainly plenty to keep the boys busy with here around the College. At our Headmaster’s Assembly, Br. Anthony spoke to the boys regarding a brief meeting he had with a Br. Bill Sullivan (present Headmaster of St Augustine’s College Cairns and formerly Headmaster of Marcelin Randwick), whilst attending the funeral of Br. Alexander Moss, here at the College on Wednesday. So impressed was Br. Bill, he went out of his way to talk of the greetings, openness and friendliness of the boys. He commented also on the great spirit he always feels when he comes here. You should feel most proud of your sons.

As our boys get back into full swing for their Second Semester after a very busy start to the term, our twenty–eight Visual Arts students spent Wednesday at the Museum for Contemporary Art, while our thirty-eight Legal Studies student experienced the law in action with a visit to the courts at the Downing Centre. Both very successful excursions in content and our boys’ behaviour.

Last Friday, 13^th May, 3 of our boys, Tim Litherland, Harry Maher and Daniel Harrington were guests at St Ignatius for their “Hot Potato Shop” which is discussion and lunch with a special guest. On this particular occasion the guest was former Prime Minister, John Howard. Tim provides a brief account of the occasion:

“The man of steel, conviction, guts; a coward, conservative and, in the words of Paul Keating: “a desiccated little coconut.” Whatever your perspective on former Prime Minister John Howard it is hard to deny him of his passion for politics and his conviction towards his own policy. Harry Maher, Daniel Harrington and I were accompanied by John Maher to experience these labelled characteristics first hand at Riverview on Friday, May 13 as the former Prime Minister discussed policy, fears and the future as well as addressing questions from an audience of Riverview boys, teachers and our small Joeys cohort. Issues such as the Port Arthur Massacre and the subsequent gun laws were raised; his personal thoughts on America were also mentioned.

However, as inevitable the 2003 invasion of Iraq was the final point of topic before the audience were given the chance to ask questions of the former PM. Howard defending the invasion of Iraq epitomised this sense of conviction which came across strongly to Daniel, Harry and I as Howard explained his strong belief in making choices in the nation’s interest, even if this was contrary to the public interest. So in summary, despite Howard making a catalogue of mistakes and ill informed decisions (a $9.6 billion dollar deficit as treasurer in the Frasier years, the Patrick Stevedoring dispute of 1996, the ‘children overboard’ scandal of 2001 and god forbid work choices to name but a few) no one could deny Howard on this quality of conviction, his warmth when in direct conversation with you and ability to play the crowd. Howard, love him or loathe him, will be regarded as one of Australia’s most influential Prime Ministers”. 

Harry Maher had a busy day last Friday for after this luncheon engagement with Mr Howard, Harry was off to Barker College to compete in the Lawrence Campbell Oratory Competition. The Lawrence Campbell Oratory is widely regarded as the most prestigious, and difficult of the New South Wales Public Speaking Competitions. It consists of speakers from C.A.S. and G.P.S. Schools. Each candidate is required to give a speech of eight minutes length of one of three topics given to him or her 15 minutes beforehand. In this competition, the emphasis is on oratory, the art of speech, and so the manner of delivery counts at least equally with the subject matter. With only fifteen minutes to prepare and without the aid of books or references, the content of the speech tests the candidates’ general knowledge and ingenuity. Harry performed most admirably, giving a very eloquent speech on the outstanding topic, “Two Cheers for Democracy”.

The College caterers, Alliance, hold monthly meeting with our boys, staff and parent representatives, to discuss the menu and dietary requirements. Hugh McLean and Tom Robertson are our present representatives and expressed themselves very well at our first meeting for the term with some excellent feedbacks from their class mates.

Our commitment to Matthew Talbot Hostel for Homeless Men where four of our boys go in on Friday evening with Mr Andrew Faulks to help serve the evening meal to the guests, re-commenced on Friday the 13^th May with Harry Mooring, Clancy Pattinson, Ricky Buchanan and Jackson Whiting. Harry went the extra mile when Miss Karina Stambouliah’s car copped a flat tyre, and he very swiftly and efficiently changed it so that the boys fulfilled their commitments. The following boys will maintain this great service today Friday 20^th May: Matt Mullen, Duncan Baxter, Charlton Wilson and Terence Wong.

It is probably a timely reminder about the boys’ commitment to the College on Saturdays throughout the Winter Season. All boys are required to remain at School on Saturday to first complete their own sporting commitments and remain to support the rest of the school, being able to mark off at the conclusion of the day, normally around 4.45pm. I do appreciate your support in this and having to accept no when requests for early departure on Saturdays have been made. Tomorrow we have trials against Newington and you will find the fixtures attached for your assistance.

This week has seen the culmination of months of hard work to see the staging of the College Musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. Last night, the predominantly Year 11 cast, performed for their Year 11 classmates to thoroughly entertain us all. This most entertaining show displayed the wonderful talent of our boys, as well as the girls from a myriad of schools. The quality of the show is an absolute credit to our Drama and Music Staff. Huge thanks must go to Mr Alan Dawson and Mr Patrick O’Shea as well as many more Staff involved. Finally, best of luck to our boys who are involved in the production – Laurence Nelmes, Oliver Coorey, Nick Henry, Chris Spooner and Brendon Follington. Please read the following from Jenny Coorey and Sonia Spooner our Yr. 11 Parent Representatives for the Friends of Music

Dear parents,

Joeys’ amazing production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” begins on Tuesday with a matinee performance, and evening performances all week at 7.30pm. If you have not already purchased tickets there is still time to do so via the College website or by contacting the Music Centre directly(98160875). 

Our talented musicians and actors(and girls from sister Schools as well as a wonderful young chorus from Villa Maria) have been rehearsing for many months now and would love to see a full-house every night enjoying this fabulous Show!!

Hope to see you there,

Friends of Joeys Music.

NB.For any parents(particularly those of year 7 boys, who would like to become involved in our Friends of Joeys Music group as we look toward a Performing Arts Tour to NZ next year, please email your details with an expression of interest to sharonlouisetaylor@yahoo.com and we will let you know when our next informal meeting is!

I hope this keeps you informed of some of the happenings this week, take care and enjoy your weekend with your families.

Regards

Jeremy

QUOTE: “To ourselves we are great. Yet most of us live life without making a stand, contented to blend into the background of self-rendering nothingness, and when looking back feel contented at our own mediocre accomplishments. Nobody remembers the person who conformed out of inadequacy. Nobody notices a patch of grass, they see the tree”.

Dear Yr 11 Parents/ Guardians;

Well the first blast of winter has hit the dorms and singlets, t-shirts and thongs have been replaced with hoodies and ugg boots! Joeys Rugby fleeces are out in force and early morning training sessions are a little more challenging now, than they were last term. The boys are going well though and are in good spirits. We have started our winter routine with them and that is Sunday and Wednesday night’s lights out is at 9.30pm.  I have found they appreciate and need extra sleep during these periods in the past.  Also pleasing to hear boys being proactive in how they can better their performances after you would have received their reports this week. This Reporting period that has ignited much energy and discussion is certainly very good for everyone. It rewards the boys who really have been making an effort; tells others, who thought they were going okay, they need to do a bit more and to a few the necessary wake up call. Most importantly, it gives our boys first-hand experience of the rigours of HSC type exams that is a most valuable lesson. It also gives our boys a good indication about their subject selections and which subject that they might consider dropping and/or should keep at the end of Term 3.

During the week, Mrs Lorna Charters informed me that 9 of our boys had been awarded  Defence Technical Scholarships, those boys being – Anthony Baker, Alex Beasley, Declan O’Donahue, Andrew O’Neil, Daniel Picone, Peter Ritter, Max Westacott, Curtis Witt and Christian Zizza. Congratulations to those boys.

Yesterday at our Headmaster’s Assembly, Kurtley Beale returned to present the college with his 1^st Wallabies Test cap, a wonderful gesture. Kurtley spoke to the boys of his fond memories of waking up each morning with his best mates around him, and mates he is still very close to today. He stressed to the boys the importance of believing in yourself and your own abilities, to dream big and chase these dreams, keep that self-belief when faced with obstacles which may stop you reaching these goals and finally, maintaining a sense of balance in your lives. Sound advice for all our boys.

 This Saturday, we are away to The Kings School with all boys in attendance at Parramatta. The boys are free to leave from Parramatta once they have marked off at 4.45pm with the normal buses returning to the College by 5.30pm. A final reminder about the correct Sports Uniform with all boys to be in their Blues or College Track suit for this Saturday with either their sports top or the White PE Polo shirt underneath.

The Parent & Teacher interviews are being held on Sunday, 29^th May and that process is presently being organised. On the Saturday night, 28^th May at 6.30pm there is the Year 11 Information Evening in the Resource Centre Theatre to help clarify any concerns about the HSC. This is preceded by the Year 11 Parents Social Gathering to be held at the Jack’s Bar immediately following the 1^st XV match against Riverview. Please take a moment to read the following from our Year Reps –

Dear Year 11 Parents/Carers

“Saturday May 28^th is Year 11 Information Evening at 6.30pm. As it also happens to be our first home game against Riverview, we would like you to join us for a drink at Jack’s Bar (southern end of grandstand) after the 1^st XV Rugby. It will be a great opportunity to catch up with other year 11 parents before the information evening. No need to RSVP, just turn up. Any queries, call Carolyn on 0402 039 882. We look forward to seeing you there”.

Marie, Graeme, Nicole & Carolyn

Year 11 Parent Reps

In Week 7, our Year 11 boys will be completing their Ministry Week Service.  Similar to the boys’ Work Experience they completed at this same time last year, our Year 11 boys will mainly complete their four days of service in their local community from Monday, 20^th to Thursday, 23^rd June. Please quiz your son about where he is up to in his organisation of this important week. This being the case the boys will be free to leave from the College from 6pm on Saturday evening, 18^th June, 2010. Country transport will not have the normal Countrylink bus service from the College. Parents will need to book individually on trains to get the boys’ home. We will get the boys to Central first thing then on the Sunday morning 19^th June.

I hope this keeps you informed of all which is happening in Yr. 11, take care and enjoy your weekend with your families.

Regards

Jeremy

“ACTION MAY NOT ALWAYS BRING HAPPINESS, BUT THERE IS NO HAPPINESS WITHOUT ACTION”.

Dear Parents/Guardians;

Welcome to the new term and I hope you had a thoroughly enjoyable time with your sons over the Easter break and that you too, had an opportunity for some down time, rather than being run off your feet for three weeks. The boys have returned looking refreshed and with some great stories from their adventures throughout the break. It is a short term, seven and a half weeks before commencing Ministry Week, so Darren, David and myself have been stressing the importance of getting straight into their routines and starting well, not waiting for a few days to pass before thinking about doing something. I spoke to the boys about this at our Division Meeting this week, and whilst this group, I believe, is tremendously talented,  if there is one area quite a few could be better, it would be in making the most of the opportunity immediately before them.  Next week you will receive your son’s first report of the year, and we asked all the boys to take time out to discuss with you, the areas he is performing well in, and be very mindful of this, as well as the areas he could be better in, and what steps he was going to take to bring about these improvements.We reflected on the following quote, and in doing so stressed the importance of making the most of the opportunities immediately before them.

“I WANT TO BE THOROUGHLY USED UP WHEN I DIE, FOR THE HARDER I WORK, THE MORE I LOVE. LIFE IS NO BRIEF CANDLE TO ME; IT IS A SORT OF SPLENDID TORCH WHICH I’VE GOT A HOLD OF FOR THE MOMENT AND I WANT TO MAKE IT BURN AS BRIGHTLY AS POSSIBLE BEFORE HANDING IT ONTO FUTURE GENERATIONS”.

George Bernard Shaw.

 Just because there are no exams this term, is no excuse to take it easy; just because it is a short term, is no excuse to not start quickly and get back into their routines and turn up with a purpose each day. I relayed a conversation with one of the boy’s fathers last term, and he was pointing out to his son how quickly opportunities come and pass, and how it was imperative that they make the most of each and every one. After this term, these boys have 5 terms left before their H.S.C examinations, and I have asked the boys to challenge themselves to grow as young men and improve themselves each term. An important part of this is for them to honestly appraise their report and to identify areas where to improve and how they are going to do so and to then be proactive in doing this. Some will do this more easily than others, but this is a critical skill which will serve them well here and in their future years.

Last term, our Director of Mission, Ms Helen Smith, spoke to our boys about Ministry Week, where the boys go out and undertake voluntary work, to serve people in need in their community, purely on a voluntary basis. This has been a most rewarding experience for our Year 11 students over a number of years, and will take place from Monday 20^th June – Thursday 23^rd of June this term. The boys were asked to organise this during their holidays and I have been greatly impressed with the large number of boys who have already done so, and have returned their forms with your, and the organisations authorisation. Could I ask your assistance in ensuring your son has done this and that you have verified his choice of placement during this time by next Friday, 13^th May.  All country boys will travel home to complete their placement. I have attached some forms for you, which Helen distributed to the boys last term.

HOLIDAY ADVENTURES

As mentioned before, we had some terrific tales from the boys of where they travelled to in the holidays. Alex Bellato, Max Hall, Harry Maher, James Quinn and Tim Palmer went to St Joseph’s College, Mabiri. James Quinn gives the following account:

Our Bougainville Experience

“In the holidays Harry Mayer, Alex Bellato, Max Hall, Tim Palmer and myself, along with three year 12 boys, and Helen Smith and Ralis Van – Tempest, embarked on the journey of a life time to the small island of Bougainville, one of the North Eastern provinces of Papua New Guinea. We were headed for St Joseph’s College in Mabiri, a small boarding school for boys in years 9 and 10 that is run by the local Marist Brothers. For many years, the island was the centre of much conflict and turbulence due to the operation of the Australian Copper Mine that thrived in the late 1980’s. After it was deserted in 1989 due to an increase of aggression towards its operation, many years of civil unrest between many different groups on the island followed.

We began our trip in Port Moresby and after two packed days of sightseeing and meeting with both Joeys families and Marist Brothers who live in the area as well as visiting local markets, it was time to fly to Bougainville where the main extent of our trip would be take place. When we stepped off the plane and headed with our bags to the awaiting banana boat, we were immediately hit with a strong sense of warmth and friendly smiles from everyone who saw us.  It took us four hours in the back of a 4X4 to travel from our boat at the northern tip of the island to the school in Mabiri, which is in central Bougainville. For the 11 days that we were “special guests” at the school we were constantly immersed in the amazing positivity, hard work and amazing voices of the Joeys boys in Mabiri. From the minute we arrived, through the amazing traditional welcome ceremony and the general nature of the students, we felt as though were part of their school.

The boys at Mabiri would go out of their way to do anything for us, whether it was helping us across one of their many high log bridges where balance was essential  (a skill none of us seemed to have) or climbing up coconut trees so that we could experience one of their many amazing natural foods. Their skills in the environment were incredible and no matter what it was we seemed to always be awed by them.

One of the most significant highlights for all the boys was our days spent in both the town of Arawa as well as the day spent visiting the schools inside the Panguna Mine blockade as well as seeing the extent of the mine itself.  Arawa was a town built for Australians involved in the mine and when built was like an Australian suburb dropped into the middle of the jungle in Bougainville. During the crisis, this was all changed. As we saw it, Arawa was completely destroyed with the remnants of the town still remaining, from a smashed up Shell Service Station to the many blown up electricity power lines and devastated roads that used to service the city. Just to think what it used to look like was an incredible thought. The visit inside the mine blockade was also an incredible experience. Seeing the extent of the damage that has come from the mine is pretty confronting with much of the mine “tailings” area, contaminated with copper sulphate, being the home to large numbers of people. We visited some of the poorest schools in Bougainville who although were already doing it tough, always managed to do something incredible for us through their welcomes and gifts. As we drove along in our 4X4 the sight of adults and kids alike panning for gold as their skin is eaten away by the contaminated water was probably the thing that hit me the hardest and realising that these people had no other option in order to feed their families emphasised to me the impact that the mine has had on the Bougainvillian people.

In all honesty, what we experienced in Bougainville is something that cannot really be conveyed in words or written on a piece of paper, it is an experience unlike you would realise anywhere else. I loved every minute of my time with these incredible people and encourage anyone who can to take part because it truly has changed our lives”.

James Quinn

SJC FOOTBALL TOUR 2011 – UK & ITALY

Jesse Fenech, Ted Dwyer, Tom Booth, Vincent Salinos, Julian Paul, Jason Ren and Matt Alessi went to the United Kingdom and Italy on the Football tour. Jesse Fenech and Ted Dwyer give the following account:

“In the Easter holidays 38 Joeys footballers along with 3 staff spent 17 days absorbing the incredible football culture that Europe has to offer. First stop was London, England, where an extremely busy schedule saw training sessions with top flight football club Fulham FC and League One side Charlton Athletic, and hard fought matches for the two junior sides and the senior side against Pro Touch Academy.  At Fulham FC’s high quality training facility, Motspur Park, the boys were treated to a visit from Fulham and Australia’s #1 Mark Schwarzer, one of the Premier League’s finest goalkeepers. The squad also received high quality training from the club’s youth team coaches. This was also the case at Charlton Athletic, where the players had the chance to meet first team manager and former player Chris Powell, and Australian Nick Ward who is currently on trial at the club. Many of the boys found training at Charlton the most technically rewarding training session even though it was not the highest profile club that we visited. In the matches against the high quality sides from Pro Touch Academy, both the junior sides went down while the seniors had an extremely tight game in which they lost 1-0 after a late goal, having matched the opposition in terms of skill. A close ranger header from Jason Ren almost saw Joeys take the lead in the first half but unfortunately it went just over the cross bar.

A long bus ride took the boys to Manchester and Liverpool in the north-west. Training at Everton FC’s Finch Farm training ground saw the squad meet Australian star Tim Cahill, and be treated to coaching from one of the Premier League’s best producers of young footballers. The boys also trained at Manchester City, a session that many of the boys found the most enjoyable session of the trip. A second game against Tottington High School saw the juniors gain one draw and a loss, while the seniors had a hard fought draw. If the boys hadn’t arrived ten minutes before kick-off due to a mix up in times, the result would maybe have gone the other way and seen the team come out with a win. Matt Alessi scored a much needed equaliser with his left foot to bring the final score to 1-1.

After another long bus ride back to London and an early morning plane ride took the teams to Milan, where they spent 3 sessions with one of the best clubs in the world, AC Milan. These sessions were closely followed by games against the AC Milan junior academy, with all three teams going down, even after Vincent Salinos put the senior team up 1-0 before eventually losing 3-1. This disappointed the boys as many believed we should have won the game. Another short plane ride took us to Rome, where we trained with top flight club AS Roma and spent the last few days of our trip sightseeing and taking in the amazing city. The boys were lucky enough to experience a mass in the Vatican on Holy Thursday with the Pope Himself. Congratulations must go to Julian Paul who received the award for most improved player of the tour on the last night before returning.

Not only did the boys play football but they also got to experience the incredible football culture of England and Italy, watching several matches including Tottenham vs Stoke City (3-2), Aston Villa vs Newcastle (1-0), AC Milan vs Sampdoria (3-0), AS Roma vs Chievo (1-0) and also Manchester Utd reserves vs Everton reserves (2-0). The atmosphere at the games, especially the Tottenham and AC Milan games, was something that the boys had never seen and was a highlight for many, especially the wild AC Milan fans with their flares and fireworks”.

Ted Dwyer and Jesse Fenech

QUEENS BIRTHDAY LONG WEEKEND:  Boys will finish on Thursday 9^th June at 5.00pm and boarders return the following Monday night, with dayboys resuming on the Tuesday morning. Countrylink buses will be available on the Friday morning for those boys who need them. All boys are to leave the College this weekend.

SCHOOL PHOTOS:  These will take place on Friday, 27^th May so please keep this in mind if you are making any appointments for your son around this time. You would have received details last week about ordering these photos. Please remember, if you are ordering these photos, the envelope needs to be returned to Advance Life Photography or to me by next Wednesday, 11th May.

We had a dance last night, where we hosted the Year 10 girls from Mt Saint Benedict’s College and the boys were outstanding. Not only did they present themselves impeccably in their uniforms, they ensured their guests were treated respectfully and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. I have attached some photos for you to enjoy.

Tomorrow is our first official winter sports trial against Scots and I have attached for your assistance the fixtures.

Finally, to all the Mums, have a wonderful day on Sunday, and enjoy the day with your families. Just a reminder that Sunday night return, for this week only, due to Mother’s Day, is 9.00pm. For the rest of the term it is 8.00pm on Sunday night, with Mass commencing at 8.15pm.

Regards

Jeremy

QUOTE: “Human beings only grow if they’re outside their comfort zone. If a human being is comfortable, they’re not growing. In fact, if they’re not careful, they might actually be going backwards”. Herb Elliott

Our Countrylink boys rose early this morning to make their respective journeys north, south, north-west and west with the last boy finally walking out of the dorm at 6.30am with the bulk having left Thursday afternoon. Our packing and tidying up went very well but was certainly a very busy time with the odd bag, blazer and of course single socks left behind. They were a tired but happy bunch as they departed, knowing they had finished off the term extremely well, having earned their holiday break.

The last week commenced with our boys returning for 8.15pm Mass on Sunday night. It was a stirring Mass and great to see the Chapel so full. This will become a weekly occurrence throughout Term 2 and 3 as they boys return after their weekend leave. Parents are very welcome to join the boys for this weekly celebration of the liturgy.

Saturday, 26^th March was our Summer Sports Rally marking the end of our Summer Sport (except Rowing) Seasons. Our Senior Swimming Team commenced proceedings with our Year 11 Representatives: Harrison Holgate (Butterfly), Jackson Pittorino ( Backstroke), David Ryan (Freestyle). With Ned Tipping and Josh Schwager being awarded on stage for their commendable efforts this season.

Basketball was our next sport presented with our 1st Basketball representatives in Year 11 being Eddie Browne, Max Chippendale, Josh Commins, Harrison Goodrick, Andrew Hookey and Joshua Kay. Their season saw them compete against 3 of the top Basketball Schoolboy teams in the country and this experience will stand them in great position for a strong season next year. Congratulations to Harrison Goodrick for being selected in the Combined GPS Seconds. They were followed on stage by Nick Berney, Hugh McLean and Charlton Wilson of the 2nd V Basketball. The experience all these boys gained certainly sets up with much anticipation for next season with all these boys backing up in our Senior Squad.  Congratulations to the coaches, Mr. Jim Arkell, Mr Allan Dawson and Convenor, Mr Kieran Jones.

Our 1^st Tennis boasted Maurice De Costa as our Year 11 representative while Harrison Gould, Matthew Hall, Nicholas Wood, Sean Quigley and Geoff Choy represented in the 2nds Tennis. The boys were praised for their tireless efforts and great spirit they displayed over the season. Congratulations to Mr. Craig Attwater, Mr. Gavin Were and their hard working convenor, Mr. John Haines.

Our 1st XI Cricketers with Jesse Fenech, Ben Rodgers, Hamish Bartlett, Jackson Watts, Declan O’Donahoe and James Williams provided great excitement for all at the Rally, needing an outright victory over Scots and some results to go their way,and they would be Premiers. The boys scored 280 runs and had taken 18 Scots wickets and needing 2 wickets in 12 overs to become Premiers. The Rally commenced and all were waiting in hope and expectation of the boys’ result. They arrived at approximately 6.30pm, with the news they had fallen 1 wicket short of victory and another Premiership. Although disappointed for them and their coaches Mr Richard Casamento and Mr Pat Rodgers, everyone was extremely proud of this tremendous effort in coming so close to victory. The Second XI Year 11 representatives were: Josh Schwager, Alex Newsome, Tim Litherland, Tom Laban, Tom Garrick, Seth Turnbull and Alex Pay, congratulations to them and their coach Fr. Andrew Nee for taking out the Premiership. Congratulations to all boys and to their coaches, with a very special thanks to the excellent work from the Convenor of Sport, Mr. Miles Newman, for his excellent organisation and help throughout the Cricket Season. It was also pleasing to hear fitting praise declared for Mr. Bill Rawlings and his ground Staff who produce outstanding wickets and grounds every week; certainly the best facilities in the GPS.

The two remaining Summer Sports saw our Senior Water Polo team acknowledged for their efforts in the combined GPS/CAS competition to see the Senior Team competing in a very competitive competition, with William Glenn, Duncan Baxter, Nick Henry, Harrison Holgate and Saxon Dunworth representing Yr 11 in the 1^st Waterpolo.

A most impressive part of our Sports Rallies are the speeches made by our Captains of Sport. These young men are selected for their sporting prowess and leadership and not necessarily for public speaking skills, however, every one of them speak most eloquently in front of a 1,500 crowd to do their sport, their team and themselves duly proud. The Captain of the First XI Cricket, Angus LeLeivre, Declan Carroll 1^st Basketball and Joshua Johns 1^st Tennis in Year 12, were no exception and were warmly acclaimed for their outstanding addresses to the College.

Last Saturday, saw our annual pilgrimage to the Head of the River bringing together the AAGPS for the first of the two occasions a year. The organisation of the day is huge and that is only for the supporters, let alone the tireless hours of training from our Senior Rowers and their coaches.

All boys then returned to the College to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of our rowers for the Rowing Sports Rally. The first rowing crew with Yr 11 Representatives were the 3^rd V111 with Joe Callaughan, Brendon Follington, Ed Dudley, Jack Spork, and  Andrew  Raumer. The boys did very well and rowed their fastest time for the season by 25 seconds. In the 4th 1V William McManus represented Yr. 11 on stage after the crew rowed a personal best on the day. Morgan Thomas, Max Hall, and Daniel Picone gained a tremendous second place in the 3^rd 1V. Jonathon Canturi, Zach Guilfoyle and James Allan representing in the 2^nd IV, all showed great fight to put in strong performances and rowed their personal best times on the day. Our 1^st 1V with David Ryan and Dom Mullane got off to a bad start but regathered their composure to row a very admirable race.  Our 2nd VIII with Peter Ritter, James Dressler-Smith, Tom Murphy, James Quinn, Hamish Elliot and Vincent Salinos rowed their best time of the season as did the 1^st V111 with Conor O’Gorman, Sam Clarke, Alec Rainnie, and Ethan Shaw being  warmly greeted at the Rally commiserating with the boys but celebrating their efforts in this most demanding of sports.

The holidays will provide a good rest for our boys however some will be representing us in a variety of activities. Harry Maher, Max Hall and Alex Bellato head off to Bougainville with our Solidarity group to continue the service learning partnership with our fellow Marist school, St Joseph’s Mabiri. Tomorrow lunchtime, Darren Frost and the other 1^st and 2^nd Football coaches take a Senior and Junior Squad of Footballers on a magnificent tour of the United Kingdom and Spain, which will be a wonderful sporting and cultural experience for all boys involved. 25 Year 11 boys are off to the 1^st and 2^nd XV Rugby Camp at Coffs Harbour in the last week to prepare for the coming Rugby Season. We wish all boys and the Staff looking after these endeavours, our very best wishes.

Our boys have made a great start to the year. They have worked extremely well and thoroughly deserve a well-earned rest.  ALL our boys (Full Boarders and ALL Weekly Boarders) return by 8 pm MONDAY EVENING, 2nd May. I would ask you to ensure your son returns with his hair cut to College regulations and please have him check that he has his full College uniform with him, including shoes and belt!

Finally, may I wish you a very Happy Easter and an enjoyable time with your son hoping the break is an enjoyable time for all.

Regards

Jeremy