黑料社区

The prophet Micah wrote in about 700BC 鈥�This is all God asks of you, to act justly, love tenderly (mercifully), and walk humbly with your God鈥�. St Irenaeus (202AD) wrote 鈥�The glory of God is the human person fully alive鈥�. Both truths seem so simple, yet so profound, and seemingly unachievable for the human condition to date.

John F Kennedy reminds us 鈥淎ll this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days, nor in the life of this administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime. But let us begin.鈥� 

At 黑料社区, we have a rich tradition of Christian and Lasallian wisdom to guide us how to live and conduct our lives so that peace and stability will reign, and the potential of creation achieved for all. When we are using our talents to the best of our ability, we are fulfilling God鈥檚 plan, we are bringing to fullness the potential of creation. When we are anything less, the world is less, and opportunities are lost. We are fully who we ought to be 鈥�when we combine in ourselves, the spiritual, a moral for living, a lively mind, cultural sensitivity, and a healthy sense of the physical.鈥� Archbishop Oscar Romero goes on to say 鈥�Good education must result in young people being not only gifted and accomplished but also wise and holy. This is what we are about: We plant seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold the future promise.鈥�

Human flourishing has to be a central focus of education. Every gram of leadership has to be nurtured so that it can engender positive change. Talent well used grows social capital, which we rely on to make the world a better place. Leadership that moves a situation from good, to better, to best, will happen more effectively based on spiritual values and ethics. Such inspiration is not common but is essential in a borderless global world. Lasallians must be leaders of change, bearers of hope, bridging differences, touching heats, transforming lives. 

Change is so rapid that the future comes upon us before we get time to think and prepare for it. In 2017, I wrote that by 2020, over 50% of devices in our homes will 鈥榯alk to each other鈥�, that artificial intelligence (AI) will exist within our lifetime, and that global economic and educational forums are speaking of and preparing for the fourth Industrial Revolution - man and machines living and working together. I said we have no idea how this will impact us and therefore, it is more important than ever that we focus on what is uniquely human and to ensure that connectedness, that humanity, empathy and compassion are at the centre of all our 鈥榖eing鈥�.

Today we are already hearing of, working with, and being challenged by AI and machines in our lives. Chat GPT is one such example. The call by Elon Musk and others to delay the release of such AI until ethical and procedural guidelines could be developed has not been adhered. There is already evidence that the algorithms of AI portraying the worst of human behaviours and less the qualities and values we hold dear, such as empathy, compassion and respect.

Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum said in 2016 said that 鈥�there has never been a time of greater promise, or greater peril鈥� in the context of the rise of AI and the fourth Industrial Revolution. He, however concludes in a most positive and hopeful tone, suggesting that future inventions will 鈥�complement the best parts of human nature 鈥� creativity, empathy, stewardship 鈥� it (the fourth industrial revolution) can lift humanity into a new collective and moral consciousness based on a shared sense of destiny鈥�.

In our Lasallian tradition, this is achieved via our three core principles of faith, service, and community. Faith is that recognition of the connectedness of human beings to each other, that sense of being drawn to an awareness of something bigger and more essential than oneself, leading one compelled to respond through service in the community (with others). While we step tentatively, stone by stone, into the future, we focus on the skills and values of routines and protocols that keep us connected. As Lao Xi, a famous philosopher at the time of Confucius once said, 鈥�A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.鈥�

To finish with, I will leave you with a quote from a great orator, not JFK this time but Winston Churchill:

鈥淪uccess is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. Never, never, never, give up.鈥�

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. (Marcus Aurelius)

Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal

My sister and her family are great dog lovers. While I was home this Christmas, both Oscar and Bella were put down by a lovely vet at home. Seven year old Francis came up with a blinding insight when we were discussing why dogs lives are shorter than ours. People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life 鈥� like loving everyone all the time and being nice, right? Well dogs already know how to do that, so they don鈥檛 have to stay as long as we do.

Like dogs, the pursuit of excellence involves live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly.

Remember if a dog was a teacher, you would learn things like:

When your loved ones come home, always run to greet them,
Stretch before rising,
Run, romp and play daily,
Thrive on attention and let people touch you,
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do,
On hot days, drink plenty of water and lie under a shady tree,
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk,
Be faithful,
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it,
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Dogs have a lot to teach us. Joe Duffy is a very popular presenter on Irish radio and an old boy of the Brothers in Dublin. When asked what his New Year鈥檚 resolution was, he declared that he wanted to be half the man his dog thinks he is. To live authentic lives, we need to let go of who we are supposed to be and embrace who we are. Find all those qualities we possess that are life giving and live them. When you look at a dog think about what you have just heard. They can show us how to live.

We pray for the following staff members and their families: Mr Scott McLeod, whose mother passed away, Mrs Roxanne Leopardi whose father passed away, Mrs Louise Johnston whose nephew passed away and Ms Donohoo whose brother passed away.

Eternal rest grant them, O 鈥楲ord.
May all the celestial lights forever shine upon them.
May they now rest in peace.
Amen.

On Thursday 18th May, 黑料社区 embraced our diverse paths as Lasallians while staying connected. By donning various shoes, we acknowledged the unique journeys we each undertake. Let's remember that without stepping into others' shoes, we can't fully grasp their experiences. 

Thank you to all that joined in by wearing different shoes and celebrate the beauty of diversity!

Mrs Sam Watson
Marketing Officer

All Years College photographs will be taken on Wednesday 31st May. Sibling photographs will be taken at lunchtime. If you would like to order photographs for your child/s please follow the instructions below and order through Advanced Life. The website is: . The College code is: 5EC BAD JLJ. Sibling photographs need to be ordered by midnight on 30th May 2023. After this time, envelopes can be collected from Student Services for cash payments.

The back-up (for absent students) is Wednesday 7th June.

We are proud to announce that two of our exceptional teachers, Ms Deb Stokes (Mathematics) and Mr Jason Rophail (HSIE), have been awarded the prestigious Rotary Excellence Awards. These awards recognise the significant contributions they have made as educators and we are delighted that they could share it with their family, peers and the community.

Ms Stokes has been a devoted Mathematics teacher at 黑料社区 for 21 years, and is beloved by both staff and students for her enthusiasm, innovation, and dedication. Her deep knowledge, sense of humor, and effective class management create an enjoyable and effective learning environment for her students. She consistently produces outstanding maths results at the College and is always seeking new ways to make maths fun and engaging.

Mr Rophail is a highly respected professional who has dedicated 21 years to teaching at 黑料社区. He is known for his passion for teaching, particularly in Economics, and his thorough preparation, varied lessons, and excellent results. He is constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance teaching and learning strategies using information and communication technologies. He is a valued team player who sets high standards and inspires his students to achieve their full potential.

We extend our gratitude to the Rotary Club for their support in recognising outstanding educators and promoting the importance of education in our community.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing and Communications 

On Friday 12th May, we gathered to honour and celebrate the incredible mothers of 黑料社区. The day began with a meaningful and heartfelt Mass officiated by Fr David Orr, which drew a full congregation in the Chapel. It was a beautiful start to the festivities.

Friday night brought us a special Communion Service, featuring Ms Louise Johnson, our esteemed Academic Head of Learning Support, as our guest speaker. Louise delivered a truly exceptional account of the joys and challenges of motherhood, offering valuable insights that left a lasting impact on us all. Once again, the Chapel was filled with warmth and appreciation.

As we reflect on this beautiful week, we are reminded that the spirit of formation continues to thrive at 黑料社区. Our upcoming Founders Day Mass, scheduled for Friday 19th May, promises to be yet another occasion for us to celebrate our esteemed founder, St John Baptist De La Salle, and his enduring influence on our lives as Lasallians.

We express our deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff and students of 黑料社区 for their unwavering support of our formation initiatives. We are also incredibly grateful to the wider community whose presence and participation make these events truly special. In the weeks leading up to Mother's Day, our students and staff volunteered their time and creativity, crafting exquisite earrings, bracelets, and potpourri bags. The Reynolds-McFadden family's generous contribution of handmade candles, bath salts, and bath bombs added a touch of beauty to the occasion. Thanks to the efforts of numerous volunteers, our Mother's Day stall was a resounding success, raising an impressive $2,100.00 for the Breakfast Club in Papua New Guinea.

Once again, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved for making Mother's Day 2023 a memorable and impactful celebration. Your support and contributions demonstrate the true essence of our 黑料社区 community.

Ms Laurainne Marshall
Prayer and Liturgy Coordinator

This a reminder that the second instalment for 2023 fees (one third of your annual fees) was due on Monday 15th May unless you pay in instalments via School Easy Pay. Fee statements were issued prior to the beginning of Term 2.

If payment hasn't been made, we ask all parents/carers to organise payment of College fees now. Or please contact the Accounts Receivable Office on 9899 2288 if there are any matters relating to your statement that you need to discuss.

Ms Lisa Camilleri
Accounts Receivable Officer 

A reminder to our community about the Australian Road Rules, that it is illegal to park within 10 metres of an intersection.

Yellow 'No Stopping' line markings at the intersection of Old Castle Hill Rd and Sherbrooke Crescent have recently been installed and as a result, vehicles are being fined for parking over the yellow line marking and within 10 metres of the intersection.

Please ensure to keep a safe distance from intersections. Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining road safety for our community.

This week, we welcomed back two 黑料社区 alumni, Miss Seronique Taylor and Miss Talia Scheeren (Class of 2022), who shared their inspiring cadetship journeys into the finance industry at UBS, one of the world's leading banks.

Seronique and Talia highlighted the incredible opportunities available with cadetships as a pathway into the job market. They emphasised that cadetships provide unique opportunities to gain valuable work experience, and earn a salary while pursuing their studies at their choice of university in either business, finance or technology.

During their talk, they shared personal experiences and insights into the interview process, the support from 黑料社区, and Professional Cadetships Australia in acquiring their cadetship and the collaborative, supportive, learning environment they work in at UBS.

Year 12 students are able to apply now if they are interested in these cadetship opportunities through our Careers Advisors.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing & Communications

Footloose Tickets will be on sale in Week 6!

Get ready to dance 黑料社区! Don't miss out on this electrifying musical filled with catchy tunes and captivating choreography. Mark your calendars and get ready to secure your spot for a night of toe-tapping excitement!

Performances will be on Tuesday 20th, Thursday 22nd, Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th June at the Pioneer Theatre, Castle Hill.

We are always thrilled to gather for another special occasion, our Assemblies, where we come together to recognise and celebrate the diverse achievements within our College community. These gatherings serve as a testament to the value we place on the unique talents that enrich 黑料社区, inspiring others to embrace their own abilities and strive for excellence.

During our recent Assembly on Friday 12th May, in addition to launching our upcoming Day of Difference and Founder's Day events, we took the opportunity to congratulate the following individuals and teams:

Year 7 Leaders: Ranidu De Silva, Kritthik Kamalanathan, Matthew Axiak, Joshua Tollens, Domenic Pizzonia, Matthew Gendy, Chase Farrugia, Ajmil Serpaul, Lincoln Brown, Anthony Lo, James Wynne, Angelo Chichizola, Joel Sampson, Dominic Tyler, Ryder Egan, and Samuel Worboys.

Year 12 Debating team: John-Paul Edge-Bennett, Annalise Brinsden-Chin, Ruby Cook, Kaden Govender, Timothy Grehan and Alyssa Saad.

1sts Winter Sports Teams:

Tennis 鈥� Adam Tomka, Maximilian Dabrowski, David Mitchell, Harry Palmer, Ritviyah Uppal.

Netball 鈥� Mia Cayless, Caitlyn Bacon, Olivia Bullock, Jazlyn Crews, Ava Foxe, Olivia Hill, Tayla Jamieson, Michaela Kennedy, Maddison Sekura, and Bella Shepherd.

Girls Football 鈥� Chloe Apps, Angela Campbell, Jemima Cusack, Lucy Fuccenecco, Angelina Graiche, Ruby Hanckel, Charlotte Johns, Nikaela Luz, Caterina Mazzotta, Tayla Milicevic, Alanah Mobilia, Bianca Mobilia, Madeleine Nolan, Katherine Saab, Bianca Salloman, and Ashlee Woolford.

Boys Football 鈥� Jonathan Sirry, Kyah Williams, Aevahn Anthony, Hamza Bangash, Ryan Fumberger, Jack Gontarczyk, Harvey James, Caleb Kirkegard, Blair McDonald, Christian Milicevic, Zachary Morsink, Blake Noonan, James Ord, Julian Rodriguez, Toby Ryan, Jacob Sullivan, Luca Terranova and Jonathan Tsakos.

Rugby 鈥� Sam Bacon, Luke Alderson, Thomas Alloggia, Dylan Biggs, Owen Boys, Julian Carruthers, Kevin De Silva, Ryan Edwards, Hamish Goonan, Joseph Harvey, Mitch Holmes, Taite Howells, Ryan Jacobs, Ronan Lee, Jed McDonald-Singh, Luke Muriti, Jamie Peacock, Lennox Risati, Ryan Scott, Charley Turner and Luke Wakefield.

The Agriculture Show Team for outstanding results at the Royal Easter Show.

Congratulations to all these individuals and teams for their remarkable accomplishments. They continue to inspire us with their dedication and commitment to excellence.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing and Communications

As part of our continuing education of NAIDOC celebrations, this year we invited Uncle Wes to tell us the Dreamtime stories. The theme for NAIDOC 2023 is Our Elders. Across every generation, our elders have played and continue to play an important role and hold a prominent place in communities and families. Uncle Wes, our College and senior Elder of Western Sydney started with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Co-ordinator, Ms Karen Isaacs the Yarn Circle group over a decade ago. Today our Yarn Circle is continuing to learn from Uncle Wes, the stories and culture so that we may pass on this knowledge to our communities.

Fieldwork holds a vital place within the Geography curriculum, allowing students to delve into real-world contexts and gain practical insights. Recently, the Year 12 Geographers embarked on a trip to Pyrmont on Friday 5th May to explore the intricacies of urban renewal. This experiential learning opportunity offered them a firsthand understanding of the evolving landscape.

During the excursion, students observed the lifestyles of more than 25,000 individuals who now call Pyrmont their home. Engaging with various groups such as "Yuppies," "Dinks" (double income, no kids), and "Empty Nesters," they gained valuable perspectives on the diverse demographics shaping the area. Additionally, the students were thrilled to witness the urban renewal plans for Blackwattle Bay and witness the construction progress of the new Sydney Fishmarket. These experiences proved to be the highlights of the fieldwork, deepening their comprehension of urban transformations in action.

Mr Robert Munday 
Deputy Principal

Year 8 students have been immersed in the captivating world of Ancient Egypt, delving deep into its rich history and culture. In order to enhance their comprehension of significant spiritual customs prevalent during this era, students actively engaged in a unique educational experience by participating in a simulated mummification process. This hands-on activity served as a compelling means to translate their theoretical knowledge from textbooks into a tangible, real-life encounter, allowing them to solidify their understanding and make a meaningful connection to the subject matter.

Ms Caitlin Latty 
HSIE Teacher

Last week, our Year 12 Modern History students had the privilege of hearing from the incredible Ms Yael Eaglstein from Yad Vashem: World Holocaust Center, Jerusalem, who shared insights into the plight of the Jewish people during the dark period of Nazi Germany.

Yael's words left us with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Jewish community and the importance of critical thinking. Yael highlighted how quickly and drastically things changed for the Jewish people in Nazi Germany, how the Nazis infiltrated and manipulated the German people's thinking, and how anti-semitism was rampant, with Jews being subjected to discrimination and prejudice in many ways. She discussed how German society became highly judgemental, casting harsh scrutiny upon their Jewish neighbors and how the lives of Jews became incredibly difficult long before the outbreak of World War II, as they faced severe restrictions on movement and freedom. Yael highlighted the irony that many Jewish men had served Germany in World War I, only to be treated in such a disregarded manner afterward.

She discussed the introduction of the Nuremberg Laws in 1935, which determined who could and couldn't be considered German citizens based on their Jewish heritage. These discriminatory laws further cemented the divide between Jews and the rest of German society. Eventually, Jewish individuals were redefined based on racial criteria and forcibly sent to ghettos and concentration camps, where they endured immeasurable suffering, destruction, and humiliation, while the world watched on.

We are grateful to Yael and Yad Vashem for their important work in preserving the memory of the Holocaust and educating others about the importance of tolerance, understanding, and compassion and never forgetting the lessons of the past.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing and Communications

February Artist of the Month

We are delighted to announce Conor Kerr (Year 9) as the Visual Arts Artist of the Month for February. As part of our Year 9 curriculum, students delved into the concept of heroism through the unit titled "Heroes Come in all Shapes and Sizes." Conor's artwork showcases his mastery of etching while capturing the aspirations of his personal hero. Drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Iron Man, Conor's subject finds solace in emulating these heroes and believes in his own potential to protect and make a positive impact. The artwork portrays a young Peter Parker from Iron Man 2, symbolising idolatry, heroics, and heroism. It beautifully explores the transformative power of perceiving one's actions as significant, thus evolving a child into a hero.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Conor for his well-deserved win, which reflects his unwavering dedication to his craft. It is worth noting that Conor ingeniously used a car as a printing press when faced with temporary unavailability.

Ms Rachael Manning
Visual Arts Teacher

March Artist of the Month

In Term 1, our Year 11 Visual Arts students tackled the challenging unit "The Significant Object." This unit required students to engage in an intense and fast-paced exploration of experimental drawings, paintings, and prints. Each student submitted a collection of works as part of their assessment, demonstrating their technical capabilities. Numerous students exhibited exceptional vision, effort, and application throughout the task, making the selection for Artist of the Month a challenging endeavor. However, Alyzandra Almario (Year 11) stood out due to her remarkable commitment, impressive work ethic, and consistent pursuit of feedback and guidance. Alyzandra excelled in every aspect of her artistic practice and is a deserving recipient of the Artist of the Month award for March. Congratulations, Alyzandra.

Ms Marie Hogan
Academic Head of Visual Arts 

April Artist of the Month

James McGirr (Year 8) is a remarkable young artist with a strong passion for Visual Arts. He consistently challenges his skills with each art-making task he undertakes, displaying a focused and diligent approach. James possesses a natural talent for effectively conveying his ideas using a diverse range of art-making materials.

We extend our warmest congratulations to James on this amazing achievement. Well done!

Ms Nadina Hazon
Visual Arts Teacher

On Thursday 4th May, Year 12 Advanced English students attended the University of Sydney and Bell Shakespeare Seminar at Pier 2/3. This was an opportunity for students to hear from actors, directors and academics and get their take on the texts they have studied in the Module: Textual Conversations. Students heard from Associate Director James Evans and Associate Professor Huw Griffiths who provided deep insights into the play and docudrama. The excursion affirmed the learning that has been taking place over the first term and gave students a chance to broaden their exposure to the texts.

Ms Madeleine Gray
Assistant Academic Head of English

黑料社区 will be embarking on the Year 11, 2024 subject selection process over the coming months. Year 10, students and parents, please note the following dates:

• Wednesday 7th June - Year 10 Parent Teacher Interview Bookings Open

  Parent portal opens for bookings
  
  

• Thursday 8th June - Year 11 2024 Subject Information Evening
  4.00pm 鈥� 6.30pm
  Subject information evenings are designed to assist in making sound subject choices based on academic ability and future career aspirations. 
  Subject showcase commences at 4.00pm and concludes at 6.15pm.
  Subject information presentations will be held at 4.15 and repeated at 6.15pm. Further information on how to make a booking for the presentations will be shared shortly.
  
  

• Friday 9th June - Year 10 Reports are Published
  Semester One Academic Reports are published on the student and parent portals.
  
  

• Tuesday 13th June - Year 10 Parent Teacher Interviews
  Parent, student and teacher Interviews between 4.00pm and 8.30pm in the CSC.
  
  

• Wednesday 14th June - Year 11 2024 Subject Preferences Open Online at 6.00pm
  Follow the instructions provided in the information pack issued provided on Thursday 8th June. 
  
  

• Friday 16th June - Year 11 2024 Subject Preferences Close at 6.00pm

Further details will be provided to students in the coming weeks.

Any queries regarding this process should be directed to the curriculum office curriculum@oakhill.nsw.edu.au.

How Results are Reported

NAPLAN results provide schools with information on how their students have performed against the national average.

A student鈥檚 result is shown on an achievement scale for each test. The achievement scale shows increasing levels of knowledge, understanding and skills demonstrated in the assessments.

 that from 2023, results will be reported against four proficiency standards rather than numerical bands as in previous years.

Proficiency standards describe what students at each year level are expected to know and should be able to do in literacy and numeracy at the time of NAPLAN.

NAPLAN reports will contain four easy-to-understand proficiency standards:

• Exceeding
• Strong
• Developing
• Needs additional support.

The new reporting standards will provide parents, carers and teachers with simpler and clearer information about how students are performing and identify where children may need additional support.

Distribution of Student Reports

Schools will be notified of the dates for the distribution of the Individual Student Reports (ISR) and Additional Student Reports (ASR). Schools then distribute the ISR and ASR to parents.

Corrections to a Report

If any details on a student report are incorrect (e.g. an error in spelling a student鈥檚 name or participation status) the school needs to contact the NAPLAN team at NESA as soon as possible after receiving the reports.

NAPLAN Student Reports for Parents

Parents receive two reports showing their child鈥檚 achievements in NAPLAN. These are the:

Individual student report (ISR)
Additional student report (ASR).

Both reports should always be interpreted with care. Teachers will have the best insight into a child鈥檚 educational progress.

Individual Student Report

This report shows a student鈥檚 results in the key areas of:

• writing
• reading
• conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)
• numeracy.

For schools with more than five participating students, the school average is also shown.

Additional Student Report

The additional student report (ASR) provides additional information about the skills assessed. This includes:

• tables providing a description of the questions
• how the student responded
• indication of the relative difficulty of each question.

For the writing test, the ASR provides information about the skills assessed in their written response and the skill level the student demonstrated in their writing.

Mr Gavin Russell
Assistant Principal Curriculum

In a heartfelt demonstration of solidarity, 黑料社区 recently rallied behind an initiative close to the hearts of our Year 12 Student Representative Council (SRC) members, led by the remarkable Lilli Dodds. Their passion led them to support 'Do it for Dolly Day' on Friday 12th May, a cause dedicated to transforming the culture of bullying and raising awareness about its devastating impact on young lives.

The aim of the day was to shed light on the profound consequences of bullying and cyberbullying, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and even self-harm among our youth. 黑料社区 students wholeheartedly embraced this cause, expressing their support through various meaningful gestures. They contributed generously through coin donations, proudly donned blue ribbons on their blazers (Dolly's favorite color), and actively sought opportunities to perform random acts of kindness, magnifying their ongoing commitment to compassion.

We extend our gratitude to all the students and SRC members who dedicated their time and effort to create the ribbons and ensure their widespread distribution. Their dedication played an integral role in fostering awareness and support for the cause. On the day itself, our collective efforts resulted in the collection of an astounding $835, which will be donated to the Do it for Dolly Foundation, further empowering their critical work.

We would like to remind our students that if they ever need support, help is available via their Dean, a trusted adult in their life, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. At 黑料社区, we are committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where every individual can thrive.

Let us continue to stand united against bullying, fostering empathy, and supporting one another, not just on Do it for Dolly Day, but every day. Together, we can create a positive change within our community and beyond.

Mr Aaron Hickey
Director of Student Wellbeing & Management 

Every Monday - Thursday the 黑料社区 Library is offering 'Study Boost' sessions. During these sessions students can gain support with reading, assessments, mathematics and writing. Please join us.

Ms Tania Moriarty
Academic Head of Library

Over the coming newsletters, we will get to know different teachers and find out what they are reading and what they think about reading. This fortnight we focus on our Religious Education Teachers. 

Mr Peter Trinh

Each time I read a book or an article, I realise how little I know and as I read through the following books that I am holding over the years, it has allowed me to appreciate the knowledge and wisdom of past philosophies, the art of authorship and my meta-understanding of 鈥榯he meaning of life鈥�. As a fond reader of books and hanging out in the great libraries around the world, I have read somewhere that through books, there is always a unique story to be inspired by and in turn, it now has become a chapter in my 鈥楤ook of Life鈥�.

Mrs Marianne Castor

I am an audiobooks fanatic as they keep me company on my almost two hour daily commute to and from 黑料社区, although I do actually read books (rather than listening) during school holidays. I love historical fiction, and I am currently listening to books by the author Kate Quinn. The first two books were set immediately after World War 2. The Rose Code tells the story of three female code breakers at Bletchley Park in the UK and their top secret jobs during World War 2. My favourite authors are Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, and both are 鈥榗hick lit鈥� which offer happy endings and great escapism from the 21st century. The photo shows me in November 2017 at Lyme Park, which starred as Pemberley in the 1995 mini-series adaption of Jane鈥檚 Austen鈥檚 Pride and Prejudice. I imagined myself as Elizabeth, watching Mr Darcy emerge from the lake! Happy reading.

Mrs Therese Azzopardi

I enjoy reading Harry Potter as it takes me away to another time and place. It reminds me of my childhood and allows me to escape the chaos of everyday routine.

Have a chat with your Religion teacher about what book they are reading right now. 

Ms Tania Moriarty
Academic Head of Library

We are thrilled to extend our warmest congratulations to our Senior Theatre Sports Team for their outstanding performance in Monday night's competition round at Sydney Girls High School. The team showcased incredible talent, embracing every improvised challenge with imagination, skill, and an infectious sense of joy.

The competition was fierce, with 黑料社区 going head-to-head against formidable opponents, including Danebank Anglican School for Girls, Kamabla, International Grammar School, Ascham, Sydney Girls High School, Loreto Kirribilli, Trinity Grammar, and Newington College. We commend our team for their unwavering commitment and remarkable display of creativity.

We are delighted to announce that 黑料社区, along with Danebank, Newington College, Loreto Kirribilli, and International Grammar School, will be advancing to the Semi-Finals. Congratulations to all the schools moving forward in this exhilarating journey!

A special thank you goes to our esteemed Theatre Sports Coaches, Mr Philip Joseph and Mr James Ransome-Haberley (Class of 2022), for their exceptional mentorship. Their guidance and expertise have played a vital role in nurturing our team's talents and fostering their growth.

Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Semi-Finals will be held at Normanhurst Boys High on Monday 29th May at 7:00pm. Let us rally behind our Senior Theatre Sports Team as they continue to showcase their skills and represent 黑料社区 with pride.

We also want to acknowledge and celebrate the dedicated members of our Senior Theatre Sports Team, who have demonstrated their passion and dedication throughout this thrilling competition:

Marcus George
Matthew Geoghegan
Kieran McMurrich
Logan Penfold
Matthew Walker-Rolls

Best of luck to our team as they prepare for the Semi-Finals. Your hard work and talent are an inspiration to us all. Go 黑料社区!

Mr Warren Flanagan
Academic Head of Drama 

Congratulations to Year 10 Drama students, Performing Arts staff, Sue Waters and Tyla Burrows for the Monty Python comedy Spamalot. A big thank you also to the entertainment stage crew, and Dave Walsh and Marie Hogan, who along with their students, built and decorated the stage props. The outstanding, hilarious performances of Spamalot left audiences spellbound, and the student's remarkable talents drew in sold-out crowds every night as they showcased the depth of their skills, comedy, dedication, and passion for the arts. Here are some student reflections:

Monty Python's Spamalot was undeniably the most enjoyable, vibrant, and hilarious production I have ever been a part of during my time at 黑料社区. The unique and absurd style of comedy showcased in this theatrical performance had all of us in Year 10 Drama laughing uncontrollably like a delightful gang of babbling bumbling band of baboons. Inspired by the cult classic film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," the Pythons crafted a theatrical masterpiece, brilliantly reimagined as a spectacular Broadway show by our incredible Director, Mr Thoroughgood. We are immensely grateful for his patience and support in putting up with our shenanigans. The overwhelmingly positive response and laughter from the audience members assured us that they had the time of their lives. I consider myself privileged to have been a part of such an extraordinary production, portraying the role of King Arthur. I eagerly anticipate my future years in Drama. However, let's not forget, what happens in Camelot, stays in Camelot! 

Joshua Vaz, Year 10

During Week 3 of Term 2, Year 10 Drama delivered an incredibly hilarious musical titled "Spamalot," written by Monty Python member Eric Idle. The story revolves around King Arthur's quest, assigned by the Almighty God, to find the Holy Grail. Along his journey, the king befriends the courageous knights of Camelot. It was an absolute privilege to be part of this production, and I will forever cherish the memories and the valuable lessons I learned throughout the process. Putting on such a large-scale performance taught me firsthand the challenges involved. Collaborating harmoniously as an ensemble and accommodating diverse personalities were crucial elements in achieving the best possible outcome. None of this would have been possible without the tireless dedication of our supportive teachers, including Mr Flanagan, Mrs Waters, Ms Burrows, Mrs Hogan, Mrs Gauchi, Mr Domars, and Mr Walsh. However, the biggest appreciation goes to Mr Thoroughgood, our exceptional Director. His unwavering commitment elevated the play to new heights, garnering rave reviews from teachers, students, and parents alike. Together, we truly embodied the spirit of "all for one and one for all!" 

Aimon Fitzimmons, Year 10 

Three weeks ago, CSDA Debating for 2023 began, and 12 teams ranging from Years 7-12 represented 黑料社区 in three rounds of the term-long continuing competition. In sharpening their critical thinking abilities and honing their persuasive skills, students were able to use the competition as a forum to showcase their talent and passion for public speaking on numerous topics centred around our contemporary world. 

Topics such as 鈥楻eality TV shows are detrimental to our society鈥�, 鈥楰nowledge is more important than experience鈥� and 鈥楾echnology does more harm than good鈥�, helped develop students' communication abilities and present them with a range of topics, requiring them to analyse and evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives.

The CSDA Debating Competition offers students a platform to refine their persuasive skills through structured speeches and rebuttals, which have been prevalent in the previous three critical rounds against other schools across the state, such as OLMC Parramatta, Marist North Shore, and Mount St Benedict College. Each speaker was given a time frame ranging from 3-4 minutes to 6-8 minutes, which allowed them to cohesively structure their arguments for their assigned side of the debate; affirmative or negative, alongside the members of their team. 

黑料社区 debaters participated in the previous three debates with high levels of sportsmanship, critical thinking abilities, persuasive skills, communication proficiency, and teamwork. Through careful preparation, lively debates, and constructive feedback, 黑料社区 students have gained a deeper understanding of complex issues, and refined their ability to express their thoughts persuasively, where debaters will continue to represent the College in numerous more rounds of the competition.

Marcus Valjak, Year 11

We are thrilled to announce that the 黑料社区 Agriculture Show Team will be proudly representing the College in the upcoming Greater Sydney School Cattle Competition. This highly anticipated inter-school event brings together schools from across the region to showcase their expertise in cattle handling and showing.

In this competition, each participating school is assigned a steer, and our dedicated Show Team will take on the responsibility of nurturing, training, and preparing our new Murray Grey steer, Wayne, for the grand event. From gentling to leading, our team will ensure that our steer is at his absolute best for the showing and parading segments of the competition. A huge thank you to Manildra, for sponsoring his food for the season of preparation! 

The Live Day Competition will take place on Saturday 12th August, where our well-prepared steer will be presented for judging, and is scheduled for Term 3 at the prestigious Hawkesbury Showground. This promises to be an exhilarating opportunity for the 黑料社区 Show Team to display their hard work, commitment, and passion for agriculture.

Stay tuned for updates and let's cheer on our Show Team as they strive for success in the Greater Sydney School Cattle Competition!

Ms Stellina Trestrail
Co-ordinator of Agriculture

The Greatest Hits Night, held on Thursday 4th May, surpassed all expectations, showcasing the remarkable talent that resides within 黑料社区's Performing Arts community. Singers, dancers, musicians, and entertainers took the stage, leaving us astounded by their exceptional performances. Witnessing the abundance of talent, unwavering commitment, and boundless passion displayed by our students was an absolute delight.

We extend a heartfelt appreciation to our devoted staff, whose unwavering support enables students to seize invaluable opportunities to showcase their abilities before a live audience. Their dedication ensures these experiences continue to shape and inspire our performers. The audience was captivated by the spellbinding performances and departed yearning for more.

Mrs Gabby Russo
Head of Marketing & Communications

Student Achievement of the Week

State Interschools and Snowy Mountain inter-schools Equestrian competitions were held during the school holidays in April. At the State Interschools, 黑料社区 was proudly represented by Maddie Breatnach (Year 11) and Emma Galea (Year 12). Both riders were very successful in their chosen disciplines and have qualified to represent NSW in Victoria later in the year.

Results from 2023 Interschools

Maddie - 2nd in Combined Training 95
            - 6th Overall in Novice Dressage

Emma - 5th Combined Training 105
          - 3rd Overall in Novice Dressage
          - 7th Overall in Showjumping 110cm
          - 7th Overall in Showjumping 120cm

The Snowy Mountains Grammar competition was run over four days with Emma achieving 3rd place in the Senior Girls Pentathlon, 8th Combined Training 1m and was awarded Senior Girls Showjumping Champion 110cm.

Well done to both girls.

Cross Country

The 黑料社区 Cross Country was held during the week with many students competing across all age groups. Congratulations to our Cross-Country Age Champions and the winning House for 2023 La Salle.

Age Champions

• U12 - Aidan Liston
• U13 - Bryson Samuel
• U14 - Zacary Green
• U15 - Anthony Moutzouris
• 16 Boys - Isaac Beacroft
• 16 Girls - Emily Ward
• 17 Boys - Thomas Shannon
• 17 Girls - Sophie Watts
• 18 Boys - William Troon
• 18 Girls - Charlotte Johns

House Championship Points

1. La Salle - 222
2. Solomon - 178
3. Mutien - 165
4. Benildus - 160
5. Miguel - 139
6. Turon - 94

黑料社区 Sports Lunch

Tickets on sale now!  Friday 16th June 2023. Tickets are selling fast, don鈥檛 miss out.

Mr Andrew Wisemantel
Head of Sport

The line up for the Sports Lunch on Friday 16th June has been announced! The special Guest Speakers will be rugby legends Mr Matt Dunning and Mr Phil Waugh! They'll be sharing their stories, tips, and insights on how to become a champion both on and off the field. We've also got some fantastic entertainment lined up, including a hilarious stand-up comedy performance by Tahir and a musical act by the talented Rob Shehadie! Our MC Host for the day will Mr Tim Gilbert, so with this fabulous line up of stars, you don't want to miss out. Ticket sales are via: .

To assist in the day's success, we are seeking donations for auction and raffle prizes and are offering Gold, Silver, and Bronze Sponsorship Packages, which represent excellent value for money. Donations can be made to the College or via rugby.social@oakhill.nsw.edu.au or

oakhillsportslunch@wisehartevents.com. All proceeds go towards improving our school's sports facilities, so come along and show your support for a great cause!

Tarsha Gale (ex staff member) continues to make her mark on the Rugby League world, being interviewed and on the cover of the latest edition of the Family of League magazine:

Our Gala Day on Saturday 22nd July and is a day of fun for the whole family. A day full of sports, rides, food and market stalls, books, baskets and much more. 

This year the P&F is raising money for the refurbishment of some of the facilities in the Centenary Sports Center (CSC) and pool and the acquisition of additional outdoor furniture and AV equipment for the new campus precinct. As well, 10% of the total profits will go to the La Salle Technical College, Hohola and The Breakfast Club in Papua New Guinea. 

黑料社区 P&F Committee

We would like to give a special shoutout to Marcus Campagna, Year 11 for his remarkable visit to the Ronald McDonald House last week, where he arrived bearing thoughtful gifts in honour of Mother's Day. With his own resources, Marcus generously purchased jewellery to present on this significant occasion, fulfilling not only the wishes of the families but also items from their Mother's Day wish list.

Marcus passionately shared his heartfelt motivation behind this incredibly kind gesture, expressing, "I wanted to extend my support to the families residing at RMH during Mother's Day, understanding the vital significance of providing them with a sense of familial warmth, even when circumstances may prevent them from being at their own homes. My utmost hope is that these gifts bring immense joy to the children and their families, enabling them to treasure their time at Ronald McDonald House as a genuine home-away-from-home."

We commend Marcus for exemplifying the true spirit of being a Lasallian through his compassion and selflessness. His actions serve as a powerful testament to the core values we hold dear.

Ms Sam Watson
Marketing Officer

JUNIOR REAL ESTATE ENTRY LEVEL ROLE - Castle Hill

WOULD SUIT A YOUNG PERSON WHO MAY HAVE LEFT SCHOOL IN THE LAST FEW YEARS
Position can be full-time or part-time on weekends

This is a fantastic opportunity for a customer focused young person, interested in a career in Real Estate to get a foot in the door and be trained in all aspects of Real Estate Sales. 

You will be working with and supporting experienced and high performing agents in sales administration, client support and property inspections. No previous experience required but a knowledge of MS Word and Excel is a must. You will need your own transport/licence (P鈥檚 is fine) as well as be prepared to obtain your Real Estate Certificate of Registration qualifications.
Ideally, you will be able to work full time (weekends plus three days mid-week). The employer will also consider a university student available to work Friday, Saturday and Sunday to work parttime while they complete university studies.

If interested in this role, please apply with your CV and optional cover letter to email.hillsprestige@gmail.com