It is hard to believe that another year is nearly over. Next Sunday, Sunday 27th November, is the First Sunday of Advent in the Christian tradition, a time of preparation and anticipation for the coming of Christ. Advent is a hope-filled and aspirational season: hope that there will be peace in countries of war; hope that we can work together to address global warming; hope that in our country and state, freedoms can be maintained and rights and responsibilities respected; hope for those who have lost so much in bushfires and floods; hope that those concerns in our families will be resolved and the new year bring peace, good health, and wellbeing for all.
Earlier this week I came across this end of year reflection by Br Herman written to his students in Hong Kong in 1964:
“While you are in school, you are among people who are interested in you, in your success in this life, and the next. You may not always see it that way, but it is true. Those in charge of you at school are trying their best to guide you safely through the years of your early life.
It is our fondest wish that all of you should grow up to be good men and women and surely you will with determination to do what is right whatever happens; with courage in doing good; with sympathy for other people’s troubles and strength and patience in their own; with hatred of injustice to others, but with patience when injustice touches themselves; with acknowledgment of others people’s rights without being too anxious about their own; with strength to fend for oneself. All this looks like a rather formidable task, but in its accomplishment, you are not alone. God is your helper. Without His help, you cannot succeed, but with His help, you cannot fail."
It is true we wish all our students’ success, but as Br Herman says, what we wish even more is for them to grow to be good men and women with determination to do what is right, whatever happens. To be good, be kind, be just.
Remember JFK reminds us "it will not be easy; it will be hard."
And Marcus Aurelius says, "Because a thing is difficult for you, do not therefore suppose it to be beyond mortal power. On the contrary, if anything is possible and proper for man to do, assume that it must fall within your own capacity.
Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.
Br Steve Hogan fsc Principal
Reflection
From Br Pat fsc
The best begging sign I saw was on O’Connells bridge in Dublin, reading:
This Christmas and as we begin our overseas service tours again, may we give a lot because what we get back is so substantial.
Mission News
Christmas Hampers Collections
Oakhill's Christmas Hamper Appeal is on again and we ask our generous families for donations to make a difference to families from our chosen charities.
Thank you in advance.
Mr Chris Goodman Director of Mision
Bingo Night - Lasallians Without Borders Team Fiji
Lasallians Without Border immersion trips are back! Year 12 (Class of 2023) are heading to Fiji in December 2022 to work on service projects. As part of their fundraising activities, Oakhill is holding a Bingo Night on Saturday 19th November. All welcome. We hope you can join us. Tickets are on sale now via: www.trybooking.com/CDRCK
Mr Chris Goodman Director of Mission
Lasallians Without Borders - Years 7, 8 and 9 Donations
Year 12 (Class of 2023) are heading to Fiji in December, and are appealing to students in Years 7, 8 and 9 to assist with donations of dental hygiene products to take with them.
All donations will be collected during Tutor Group until Friday 25th November.
Cupcake Sale - Lasallians Without Borders
Our Lasallians Without Borders Team Fiji have been hard at work baking scrumptious cupcakes to sell to the scores of hungry staff and students at recess on Fridays. Students have baked the most beautiful and delicious creations, fundraising for their upcoming trip to Fiji. Cupcake sales will continue over the next few weeks so remember your gold coin on Fridays, for a mouthwatering cupcake baked with so much love and care! Thank you to all who have supported this incredible cause!
Prayer and Liturgy Update
Friday Morning Masses
It is warming to see so many parents attending Friday Morning (8.00am) Mass in the College Chapel. We love seeing members of our community at Mass, and you are always very welcome to attend.
Mass at St Agatha's
On Sunday 13th November, our musicians and leaders attended Mass at St Agatha's, Pennant Hills. We are always very appreciative of all the St Agatha's Parish does for us, and it was wonderful to be part of a Parish where many of our students are parishioners.
Upcoming Masses - Dates to Note
Year 10 Celebration Mass - We are entering a very busy part of the year for Liturgy and Prayer. On Friday, 2nd December, we will hold our Year 10 Celebration Mass to celebrate their four-year journey at the College and completion of their junior highschool (Stage 4 and 5).
Carols in the Chapel - On Monday 5th December, we have our Christmas Carols and service in the College Chapel. This event is very close to selling out. You can book your ticket here via Trybooking. If your child is involved, you don't need to purchase a ticket for them.
Thanksgiving Mass - Lastly, on Wednesday 7th December, we will be having our Thanksgiving Mass at the College, to give thanks for all the blessings of 2022.
As Christmas approaches, we are reminded of the hope it brings:
Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit"
Many Blessings for the busy weeks ahead.
Mrs Laurainne Marshall Prayer and Liturgy Coordinator
Encounter Day
For more than ten years, the Lasallian Mission Services Young Lasallians Team, has been running an annual ‘Encounter Day’ for Lasallian Youth Leaders and School Leaders. Encounter Day aims to bring young Lasallians from across all thirteen Lasallian schools in NSW, for a day of leadership and faith development in a spirit of fun and community.
Thirteen student representatives from Oakhill, along with Mrs Leopardi and Mr Goodman attended the Encounter Day on Tuesday 15th November at De La Salle Ashfield, which was run by Mr Sebastian Dahau and Mr Damien Khoury.
Mrs Roxanne Leopardi Youth Ministry Co-ordinator
College News
Innovation Hub Update
After plenty of recent rain, good progress is being made on the Innovation Hub with some exciting changes.
The Innovation Hub structure is complete with the roof on which also furnishes 184 solar panels. The façade continues to take shape, with the aluminum cladding panels being installed on the northern, eastern, and western façades which is allowing for the scaffolding to be progressively dropped.
One of the differential components of the Innovation Hub is the southern glazed curtain wall. The installation of this unique, double-glazed, high-specification glass, which is often unable to be discerned as glass, is underway and looks incredible.
Inside, the topping slabs have been poured, floor grinding, and ceiling framing and sheeting are underway, with wall framing and sheeting nearing completion. The two sets of structural steel stairs have also been installed to the north and south of the Hub, as well as high-level services being installed, and rough-in is progressing on all levels.
Externally, the timber deck framing is underway, and the first external stairs and pathways have been poured. The external pathways, roadways, ramps, and stairs will continue to take shape over the coming weeks. The Innovation Hub is on track for completion in February 2023.
The tender process has also now commenced for our Canteen, which is planned to start in late January 2023 and finish at the end of Term 2, 2023. Following this the final stage of the Hilltop Precinct, The Commons, will commence later in 2023. FDC will be bumping out in January to make space for the incoming builders, which may impede traffic.
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communications
HSC ARTEXPRESS Nomination - Gabriela Chu Barbosa
Congratulations to Gabriela Chu Barbosa (Class of 2022) who has been nominated for ARTEXPRESS for her Major Work - Memento Vivre. ARTEXPRESS is an annual series of exhibitions of exemplary artworks created by NSW Visual Arts students for the HSC examinations.
Gabriela's inspiration behind her exhibition pieces: A step back is all that's needed to notice the nonsensical things we become wrapped up in. Inspired by Vanitas paintings, my aim is to remind individuals that their beauty and material possessions do not exclude them from their inherent mortality. We as humans often forget to live or to find out what it is to live when we let materialistic and self-indulgent pursuits overshadow the importance of presence. Vanity outshines personality, our phones build lives more interesting than the people around us, and many work to live but end up living to work. These paintings are a comment on only a few of the futile tendencies to which humans gravitate towards and act as a reminder to not only step away from such trappings, but to think about and appreciate where we are, what we have, and what we wish to truly make of our lives while the phenomenon still remains within out grasp.
Gabriela was also the winner of the People's Choice Award at the College's 2022 HSC Major Works Showcase.
Congratulations to Gabriela and our brilliant Visual Arts staff led by Mrs Marie Hogan on this nomination.
Mrs Gabby Russo Head of Marketing & Communication
Student Concession Cards
If your child has turned 16, and has not yet done so through Student Services, they are invited to apply for a concession card. This card allows students to travel on public transport at student rates and also to secure tickets to various events at a reduced rate.
To request a concession card, please complete the form below which requires students name, date of birth and the school year for 2023.
If students already hold a concession card, now is a good time to check that it hasn't expired. If it has, you can use the above form to apply for a new card.
Without a concession card, students may be expected to pay adult fares and rates now that they are 16 or over. Students may be subject to fines on public transport if they cannot show a valid card. This concession card will be the only proof of student status that some venues and providers will accept.
If you have any questions about this, please contact Student Services at the College.
Agriculture New Additions
On Friday 18th November, we welcomed two new additions to the Oakhill College Farm. Lesley and Scruffy are Speckle Park cross Angus cattle. These two are welcome additions to Oakhill's Show and agriculture teams.
In Term 4 Visual Arts, Year 8 are studying 21st Century Artists and artworks. Students took inspiration from Andy Goldsworthy, an environmentalist and landscape artist, and created a transient piece of work made from natural materials found around the Walsh deck.
Well done Year 8!
Ms Lesley Choi Visual Arts Teacher
Performing Arts - The Choice
After a short delay, Year 10 Drama presents the World Premiere of MJ Knapp’s The Choice. The Choice will play out in the Adrian Theatre at Oakhill College on Monday 21st November and Tuesday 22nd November. You can purchase tickets here.
This play was written specifically for the Year 10 Drama class, matching students' individual talents and skills. Our very talented Drama students and staff have also contributed their creative ideas to the production, which has created an engaging and unique experience.
Some choices are easy to make, while others are more difficult. But once made, some choices cannot be unmade, and their consequences remain with us for the rest of our lives. Betrayal, tragedy, obsession, revenge…what will be that one final choice? Liberation or desolation?
Mrs Donna Findlay Head of Senior School
Year 7 Theatresports
The Junior Theatresports team recently competed in the Semi-Finals of Theatresports Australia, Sydney region. The team took to the stage at Tara Anglican Girls School, competing against eight neighbouring schools. The boys have been tirelessly practicing during Friday lunches with Mr Thoroughgood and the Theatresports coaches. The competition was fierce. Showcasing impressive, spontaneous talent that challenged the highly complicated games.
The Oakhill team had the audience roaring with laughter with their hilarious scenarios. The boys competed in three gruelling rounds that tested their quick wit through a selection of random topics. Unfortunately, in a tight competition, the team was pushed to fifth place after tying for third in the second round.
A big congratulations to the Year 7 Theatresports team, Coaches, and Drama staff.
Mr Tyler Thoroughgood Performing Arts Teacher
Pastoral Care
Uniform Expectations
From time to time it is necessary to remind parents and students of Oakhill College's uniform expectations and policy. Please see the information below for further clarification:
Ms Deborah Gillis Assistant Principal Pastoral Care
Lost Property - Uniforms
There are a lot of uniform items in Lost Property without identifying names marked on them. In particular, we have a lot of shirts, jerseys, blazers, sportswear and shoes – both odds and pairs. Please send your child to Student Services/Lost Property if they are missing any uniform items. Please also ensure that all uniform items are marked with your child’s name so they can be reunited if lost.
All items that are remaining in Lost Property at the end of Term 4 will be donated.
What's Happening @ PJ Walsh Library
Reading Boost Wrap Up
Thank you to all students, staff and parents at Oakhill for supporting the College reading program this year.
Reading Boost allowed teachers to reward over 1,400 students with ‘Reading Boost Merits’ for doing a reading related activity in class, during Just Read time and in the library.
Almost 50 students attended our special celebration morning tea with Br Steve as a reward for submitting an e-portfolio with substantial evidence demonstrating how they have been Boosting their reading this year.
Evidence included:
A reading rocket with goals and achievements over the two terms;
Book reviews added into the catalogue for books read;
Using Microsoft Teams to check and improve reading accuracy;
Accessing SORA and reading ebooks;
Book related memes and other responses to reading.
Well done to all students involved in the program.
Don’t forget to visit the Library for some holiday reading and continue to get a Reading Boost over the summer break.
Ms Tania Moriarty Teacher Librarian
Co-curricular News
Year 7 Drama Showcase
On Wednesday and Thursday night, 16th and 17th November, Year 7 staged their Drama Showcase in the Miguel Lecture Theatre. The students showcased brilliant acts with a range of monologues, duologues and short plays.
Congratulations to all students involved you were amazing!
Mr Warren Flanagan Academic Head of Drama
Year 9 Drama Showcase - Julius Caesar
Year 9 Drama presents their hilarious showcase of Julius Caesar. Two shows only on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th November.
This week, we have asked our 2022-23 House Captains for Benildus, Lasalle and Miguel to tell us a little about themselves and their plans for the year ahead. Suffice to say, the House Cup features prominently in their thinking and all have their eyes on that prize for 2023.
Hi, I'm Jemima Cusack, one of your Benildus House Captains for 2023. I’m really looking forward to fostering more meaningful connections with my House and taking charge in the Swimming Carnival. I have been competitively swimming for years, but this year have also taken up team sports, representing the Oakhill in Basketball and Rugby 7s.
I cannot wait to get the House spirit going.
My name is Taylor Egan, one of the Benildus House Captains for 2023. I enjoy playing football and have played for Oakhill since Year 7. I also enjoy the Performing Arts and have been involved in the College Nusicals since Year 7.
For 2023 my aims are for Benildus to win the House Cup and for Benildus to continue being an inclusive community for all students through Years 7-12.
My name is Bailey Wilkinson and I am a 2023 La Salle House Captain. I try to get involved in all aspects of College life, but in particular Sports and Drama. I play Tennis, Cricket and Touch Football but if I can make it to a Rugby or Soccer game I love to go watch and support other Oakhill teams! I had a lead role in the senior Play this year and am excited to be a part of the College Musical. Getting involved in some of the vast range of activities available at the College has definitely been the highlights of my time Oakhill, so I strongly encourage all students, and especially those in La Salle House, to get involved. I promise when you look back on your time at Oakhill you will only regret not doing more. If you want any more advice or just a chat feel free to come up to me whenever. I’m very friendly and would like to get to know all of you more. Finally but most importantly, GO LA SALLE! 2023 is ours to win!
My name is Ryan Jacobs, and I’m a 2023 La Salle House Captain, alongside Bailey Wilkinson. Here’s a bit about myself: I am South African and migrated to Australia in November 2011 at the age of six, meaning this is my 11th year in Australia. I used to be fluent in the South African language, Afrikaans, but unfortunately can now only understand parts of it. Before Oakhilll, I went to Rouse Hill Anglican College from Year 3 to Year 6. Although primary school was good, I much prefer Oakhill and the high school life. I like to do physical activities including a wide variety of sports for Oakhill and also outside of school. My favourite sport is Rugby Union, followed closely by Swimming and Basketball. I have a few recent achievements that I take pride in, such as making the 1st XV Rugby team this year (2022), representing Oakhill at a state level through ISA and, obviously, being appointed to House Captain
Through my role as House Captain, I aim to further develop the outstanding culture the previous House Captains have instilled with the help of our Dean, Mr Ellwood. I am aiming for us to rightfully claim the House Cup as ours in 2023, and relieve Turon House and Ms Hemmings as House Champions. I would also like to introduce initiatives that will bring our great House together and make us an even better House.
We would like to introduce ourselves, Zara Aydin and Dylan Biggs, your 2023 Miguel House Captains. We are so excited to be leading Miguel this year and are passionate about utilising the many talents we are gifted with in Miguel House. We aim to continue the supportive environment where we empower, encourage and include one another in all that we do. Our friendly Dean, Mr McMurrich has his office located on level 2 of the Solomon building, and he is always eager to give a helping hand or just even have a chat. He is just as passionate about Miguel as we are and continues to lead by example. We as a Miguel family, are blessed to be named after Saint Brother Miguel, a gifted teacher whose students admired his simplicity, intelligence and the intensity of his devotion to his faith. As your House Captains, we aim to keep his legacy alive. A bit about us:
My name is Zara and I attended William Clarke College before moving to Oakhill in Year 11 and since then I have tried hard to include myself in various aspects of the College. My favourite subjects are Legal Studies and PDHPE and I currently play Basketball and Netball. I have been involved in the musical, sport, service opportunities and carnivals this year and strive to encourage you to utilise the endless opportunities Oakhill has to offer. As a Miguel family, both Dylan and I are proud to acknowledge our House spirit and camaraderie. We are so excited to see each individual grow and show off their talents this year and motivate you all to do the best you can. Feel free to come and find me in the Year 12 yard, stop by at the Miguel office or even send me an email, I am always available for a chat. Dylan and I are proud of all of you and are here to give you a hand.
My name is Dylan and I've been at Oakhill since Year 7. Since I came to Oakhill, I have tried to immerse myself in all aspects of College life (mainly sport). I find my favourite parts of Oakhill are the canteen and, of course, the hot chocolates at the Library. My favourite subjects are Maths, Industrial Timber and PDHPE, and I play Rugby and coach Rugby for Oakhill. Both Zara and I have a goal for 2023 and that is to be the 2023 House Cup Champions and bring the silverware back home to Miguel - the rightful owners. If you see the both of us around the College, please come say ‘hi’ and introduce yourselves as we in Miguel House are one big family.
Remember: “Winning isn’t everything, but wanting to win is!” From Zara and Dylan
In the next newsletter, we will get to know our remaining 2023 House Captains from Mutien, Solomon and Turon Houses.
This weekend is Round 5 of the ISA Summer Sport competition and the second last weekend of Sport for the 2022 calendar year. The 1st V Boys Basketball Team and the 1sts Boys Touch Football Teams sit on top of their ISA competition, both teams undefeated. Our other 1sts teams are hoping for a win this weekend to ensure that they are in a good spot going into the last game before the Christmas break.
Team of the Week
The Boy’s 2nds Touch Football side are the winner of Team of the Week. Mr Hickey's team travelled to Bathurst to play two games, one against St Stanislaus and the other against All Saints Bathurst. The early bus trip didn’t bother the Oakhill boys, who won both games, putting them high up on the ISA competition table. Well done boys and well done to Coach Hickey.
Special mention goes to the Oakhill, six Touch Football sides that were on the same bus as the 2nds and played St Stanislaus. Unfortunately, they lost the game but coaches, Hamish Goonan (Year 11) and Ryan Jacobs (Year 11), had nothing but positive words about their effort and performance. Well done to all players and thanks to the coaches for your commitment to coaching the young men in your team.
Match of the Round this Week
The Match of the Round is the 1st XI Cricket Team who take on St Patrick’s College on Saturday 19th November on Damien Oval at Oakhill College. The Oakhill boys are starting to gel and with the home-ground advantage, we are hoping for a maroon and gold victory. The first ball will be bowled at 10.00am on Damien Oval.
Summer Sport Photos
Summer sports photos are this Saturday 19th November. Please check the website for game time and photo times for all teams. Photos will be held in the CSC Foyer.
Upcoming Sport Dates
Saturday 19th November 2022 – ISA Round 5 and Summer Sport Photos
Saturday 26th November 2022 – ISA Round 6 (final round of ISA sport before the Christmas break)
Friday 3rd February 2023 – Oakhill College Junior Swimming Skins (Year 7)
Saturday 4th February 2023 – ISA Round 7 (ISA competition continues)
Mr Andrew Wisemantel Head of Sport
P & F News
P&F - Carols in the Chapel
On Monday 5th December, we have our Christmas Carols and service in the College Chapel. This event is very close to selling out. You can book your ticket here via Trybooking. If your child is involved, you don't need to purchase a ticket for them.
Entertainment Book
Supporting our fundraising at Oakhill College can now save you money everywhere you travel in the next 12 months.
For a limited time only, you can purchase a Single City Membership to the Entertainment App, and receive a bonus Multi City upgrade, unlocking access to 20 cities and thousands of offers anywhere in Australia, New Zealand and Bali.
And of course 20% of the membership goes directly to support our school fundraising at Oakhill College.
Now you can enjoy the best restaurants, cafes, fine dining and shopping with your family while traveling - and donate to fundraising at our school.
On Sunday 6th November, Harrison Habib (Year 9) completed the MS Gong Ride, a 79km bike ride from Tempe to Wollongong, to raise money and awareness for multiple sclerosis.
He raised by himself just over $4,000! A huge achievement for himself, completing the ride and raising money for a great cause.
Well done Harrison!
Photography - Sebastian Akle
In September, Sebastian Akle, Year 11, entered the “Need a Lift?” photography competition run by the City of Ryde. The competition encouraged people aged between 12-24 from across Northern Sydney to capture an original photo of something that uplifts them. This could be a favourite local spot, friends, a fun activity and the like.
In an effort to uplift the Northern Sydney community, selected entries were displayed in lifts with lots of foot traffic including Royal North Shore Hospital, Community Health Centre's and Council buildings during October 2022.
Sebastian was awarded the winner and ‘Best Overall’ photo for his submission “With the Stars”. It is quite a spectacular image, and he is a remarkable photographer in the making. The award ceremony will take place in early December. We congratulate Sebastian on this fine achievement.
Ms Marie Hogan Academic Head of Visual Arts
Canteen
Canteen Volunteer Roster
Week 7
Term 4
Monday 21 November
Tracey de Villecourt, Belinda Grosvenor, Nancy Kazzi, Candice Milsom, Janine van den Tillaart, Belinda Herbert, Shannon Doyle
Carina Morales, Jane Nguyen, Pina Wehrmann, Fran Nourdine, Yoke Jade Kok, Melissa Eldred
Friday 25 November
Alisar Malandrino, Payal Shishodia, Kelly Zillman, Corry Rowe, Dana King, Kylie Jones, Cindy Milton-White
Week 8
Term 4
Monday 28 November
Kelli McGinty, Olga Efimova, Caroline Nohra, Vicki McCahon, Elizabeth Easton, Joanna Zhang
Tuesday 29 November
Melissa Eldred
Wednesday 30 November
Michelle McEnearney, Georgina Valjak
Thursday 01 December
Jenni Stewart, Sarah Cleary, Natalie Farrant, Simone Marshall, Adrianna Attard, Carol Manio
Friday 02 December
Fay Beaini, Vanessa Bandiera, Edwina McLennan, Kelly Frost, Sharon Hillbrick, Lisa Nathan, Liz Eren
Uniform Shop
Uniform Shop Volunteers
We are looking for volunteers for our Uniform Shop on Mondays, Wednesdays and the first Saturday of the month during the school term. If you have any availability to be on the roster once a month on any of these days, please email shaskins@oakhill.nsw.edu.au, giving your name, best mobile contact and preferred day for volunteering. Please contact Suzanne, Uniform Shop Manager if you are unsure of your roster.
