Waratah Weekly - Term 4, Edition 5 - Friday, 10 November 2023

Morning Road Safety

As our College continues to grow, so does the challenge of ensuring the safety of our families during drop-off and pick-up times. The mornings in particular pose a significant concern due to the 40km/h School Zone not commencing until 8.00 am, while our College day starts at 8.10 am. This means that many parents are dropping off their children before 8.00 am and attempting to exit onto Remembrance Driveway, where vehicles are travelling at up to 80km/h in both directions. To address this issue, we have been actively engaging with local authorities, including Local Council representatives, our State Government Member for Wollondilly, Judy Hannan, and Roads NSW.

Our primary request is to have the 40km/h School Zone extended to begin at 7.45 am, providing a safer environment for both vehicles entering and exiting the College grounds. Additionally, we are exploring further traffic management solutions to enhance the overall safety of the area. While we recognise the importance of the second entrance off Olive Lane, it is unfortunate that due to an extended DA process, construction will not commence until early 2024, with an anticipated completion date of late Term 4, 2024. In the meantime, we are committed to finding immediate solutions to improve safety at the College entrance.

In this endeavour, we kindly request your assistance. Your voice matters, and we urge you to write to our local State Member, Judy Hannan, expressing your concerns regarding the current traffic situation. Your correspondence will strengthen our efforts to bring about positive changes that prioritise everyone's safety and I know that Judy welcomes your correspondence.

Please feel free to address the following points in your correspondence:

• The difficulty of exiting the College safely before 8.00 am

• The danger posed by turning out into traffic with vehicles travelling at up to 80km/h

• The challenges of turning right without a designated merging lane

Your support in this matter is invaluable, and we appreciate your ongoing patience as we work towards a second entrance. I particularly appreciate the way our parents cooperate and communicate when entering and exiting the College. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our students, staff and families, and appreciate your support of this.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

Student Drop-Off and Pick-up

Morning drop-off and pick-up continue to be challenging at the College. We are working hard with the Council and local Government Members, and the long-term solution is the second entrance off Olive Lane. We are confident that we will see significant progress on this build next year. In the meantime, please be mindful of the following:

• There is a 10km/h speed limit for all traffic on the College grounds.
  
• The bus bay is NOT a drop-off and pick-up area. Please either park or use the kiss and drop outside of White Cottage.
  
• Rather than dropping and picking up, please consider your child catching a bus if that is an option. This will help with congestion in the car parks.
  

Generally, the traffic flows well and this is due to the patience, care and concern that parents have for one another. Thank you for this.

Mr Paul Burns
Deputy Headmaster

MADDD Night

MADDD Night is a celebration of everything that has been achieved in our Creative Arts and Languages classes in 2023 (Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Deutsch). It will be a mix of live performances, filmed performances and works on display. We would love all of our students to come along with their families and show off what they have been up to in our subjects. Below is our current order of performance:

Performances start at 4.30 pm. Performers and Elective students will stay after normal College hours to work with their teachers. Other students should arrive at the Shoulder to Shoulder Shelter by 4.15 pm. 

Students should wear their Summer College Uniform unless they have a costume that has been approved by their teacher. We estimate that the evening will finish between 6.30 pm and 7.00 pm. All are welcome.

If you are attending, please register via TryBooking using this QR code for catering purposes.

Mrs Sarah Talbot
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts & LOTE

WAC P&F Golf Day

On Friday, 3 November the College P&F ran their 15th Annual Golf Day at Antill Park Country Golf Course. It was a fantastic day with 34 golfers (nine teams) competing on the day. A huge thank you to all those who attended to support the day.

Our winners on the day were -Team 3!

• Kenny Elvy
• Kent Simmonds
• Lee Cross
• Nathan McNeill

We would also like to thank Judy Hannan MP, Member for Wollondilly for joining us for lunch and presenting the trophies. Thank you again to our sponsors:

Special Golf Day Sponsors - A big thank you to:

• Dal Tech Electrical & Communications Pty Ltd - Silver Sponsor
• Yeronga School Uniforms - Silver Sponsor
• Shafer Auto - Hole Sponsorship
• College Council - Hole Sponsorship
• Stanton Dahl Architects - Donation
• Antill Park Country Golf Course
• Chris Akers - Golf Pro

College Sponsors:

• Simec Tahmoor Coking Coal - Platinum Sponsor
• Little Elves Childcare Centre - Platinum Sponsor
• PB Catering - Siliver Sponsor
• Shafer Auto - Silver Sponsor
• Narellan Pools - Silver Sponsor
• Thornton Bros Roses Pty Ltd - Silver Sponsor
• Kwik Kopy Macarthur - Silver Sponsor
• Mark's Landscape Supplies - Silver Sponsor
• Breakaway Education - Silver Sponsor
• ESP Security - Silver Sponsor
• AFL Wollondilly - Junior Australian Football Club - Silver Sponsor
  

Mr Brandon Cooper
P&F President

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We're Hiring! Assistant Canteen Manager

Due to the ongoing growth of the College, we are currently seeking applications for the following roles to commence in 2024:

• ASSISTANT CANTEEN MANAGER

For further information on any of the Permanent Positions, please contact Mr Geoff Adams on 02 4684 2577

College Musical & Vocal Muster

Sherlock Holmes - Musical - Rehearsals continue
Rehearsals for the Years 6-12 cast (2023) continue to occur each Monday afternoon, 2.45 pm - 4.15 pm with students meeting outside the Johnson 11 Studio. Students can utilise the late bus service or be picked up by parents in the car park behind the Johnson & Elizabeth buildings. 

Students in the cast are encouraged to remind their parents to complete the Google Costume Sizing Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSecyEoa58PawhtgNITZ9AaExSOEFgcSK5fdqDnHr9WxuMaYlQ/viewform

Sherlock Holmes - Set Construction
Miss Bailey and Miss Taylor will continue with the students who began Set Construction last week. Workshops will continue to run during Musical rehearsal time: Monday afternoons from 2.45 pm to 4.15 pm.

Vocal Muster
During the Term 3 break, three students from WAC partook in the Vocal Muster. The Vocal Muster provides opportunities for young people of varying abilities to experience the joy of singing in safe, supportive spaces where all have a sense of belonging. Our students were Lucy Contre (Year 7), Mikayla Frendo (Year 8) and Allison Boland (Year 10). Big thanks to Mr Richard Lane, our resident Vocal Tutor who organised their participation and this unique opportunity, as you will read below in Mikayla’s outline and experience at the Vocal Muster.

“During my time participating in the Vocal Muster 100% homegrown youth project, the environment was very warm and welcoming. The workshop went for five days and during this time, we got to meet many incredible artists. There were 20 participants and guest tutors. These include MJ O’Donnely, Dr Samuel Cortel, Michael Dolchay, Adam Sofo and Warren Barnnet. Highlands FM and parliament representatives for Goulburn and Southern Highlands were also in attendance. During the week, the tutors taught us about stage presence, new vocal techniques and how to make it in the industry. At the end of the week we then got to record our performance at Highland FM Station and have it played on the radio. I really enjoyed the workshop and would recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue singing and performing as a career.” (Mikayla Frendo, Year 8)

Mr Lloyd Grant
Performing Arts Coordinator

Term 4 Working Bee

The Term 4 Working Bee is on Saturday, 11 November 2023 from 8.00 am until 12.00 pm.

I am writing to encourage students and parents to join WAC staff and College Student Leaders at the Term 4 Working Bee. As students of the College, we would like to promote this as an opportunity for service and community building. Your contributions can make a real and positive impact on the lives of others and your environment. Serving others helps you develop personally and inspire and motivate others to get involved and serve. Leading by example. It would be greatly appreciated if you could spare an hour to serve at this event. All students who attend will be issued with a Community Service Merit, this also adds one House point toward the Overall House Shield. It would be great to see as many students as possible coming along to serve at this event.

There are a number of jobs which require attention:

• Mulching of the garden beds
• Weeding
• Leaf blowing
• Rubbish collection

Please note, we only have a limited supply of tools and equipment, therefore it is important that you bring your own gardening tools, blowers, gloves and anything else you think might help on the day.

Staff will be onsite to assist students and parents if you have questions.

Eve Jones
College Community Service Prefect

Year 7 Taster Day

All students in the Year 7 2024 cohort are invited to spend a day experiencing the Secondary Years at the College on Thursday, 23 November 2023.

Throughout the Taster Day, students will participate in PDHPE, Science, Pastoral Care, Creative Arts and Cooking lessons whilst having the opportunity to ask questions, learn about College expectations of the Secondary Years, use the Secondary Years’ facilities and start to build positive relationships with their peers.

This day is an important step in supporting students as they navigate the change and transition into Secondary Years at the College.

For Our Current Year 6 Students:

• What to bring: writing materials, recess, drink & hat
• What to wear: College Sports Uniform

A BBQ lunch will be provided, so there is no need to pack any lunch!

If you have any questions or need anything related to the day, please ask Mr Stuart Houweling or Mrs Lisa Maher.

See you then!

Mrs Madilyn Shelley
Enrolments Officer

Parking in Set Down Bays

Important Reminder - Set Down Bays

To keep our traffic moving in the mornings, please be reminded that the set down only bays beside White Cottage (the Transition building) and the Deakin roundabout are not for parking and leaving your vehicle. These are the bays with the white stripes. We ask that when you drop-off your child in the morning you do not exceed one minute in these bays if possible. This helps the traffic flow in and out of the College in the morning. If you do need to leave your vehicle, please park in the parking areas. Please note, that this does not apply in the afternoons.

Mr Daniel Warland
Property Manager

Term 4 Prayer Breakfast Invitation

Amongst the business of Term 4, I'd like to extend an opportunity for you to join us as we stop, pause and bring the things on our hearts and minds to God in prayer.

Our Term 4 Prayer Breakfast will be kicking off on Saturday, 11 November. All are welcome to join us from 8.00 am - 8.30 am for some bacon and egg sandwich before we join together in prayer from 8.30 am - 9.00 am. 

I completely understand the busy schedule all of us have on the weekends. There are many competing factors and commitments. Saturday is normally full of community sporting events along with various other activities. However, in this business, taking the time to stop and pause with our great God is incredibly beneficial.

I'd love to see you there!

 “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10)

Mr Matt Roberts
College Chaplain

NASSA Rebranding to CASA

CASA (formerly known as NASSA), is the Co-Educational Anglican Schools Association. It was established by six Anglican Schools in the Diocese of Sydney in 2002 and later grew to include eight schools. After 21 successful years of sport under the NASSA banner, the organisation has been rebranded to CASA. Our College will continue to be a part of the CASA sport organisation. It is the first step in the pathway to State Representation for students attending the member schools and its purpose is to provide interschool sports competitions, gala days and carnivals.

Stage 6 Wicked Excursion

On Wednesday, 25 October, students from Stage 6 Creative Arts and Textiles were treated to a school-only performance of Wicked at the Lyric Theatre in Sydney. The schools' production provided us with the unique opportunity to converse with the cast and crew who provided some great, subject-specific advice seen below:

Dance: Warm-ups are so important for every show and every rehearsal.

Textiles: Costumes are heavy and are cared for after every show by a large team.

Drama: You need to care for your physical, mental and emotional health to perform a character effectively.

Music: Practice is worthwhile, as is the opportunity to develop your ability to communicate effectively with others. 

Visual Arts: Each designer has to work collaboratively to create a single aesthetic.

Mrs Sarah Talbot
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts & LOTE

From the College Chaplain

The College Learner Disposition focus for Term 4 is Reflective. This is a habit that we are working on developing and cultivating in our students, their learning, their character and also in their faith.

Have you ever seen something that's taken your breath away? It's been so remarkable that all you can do is stop pause and ponder the magnitude of what you've witnessed. Maybe you've been out somewhere in nature; a sunrise or sunset. Maybe you've been watching sport and your team makes a 'miracle' play and they get the win.

In Mark 8:1-10 Jesus feeds 4000 people from seven loaves of bread and a few small fish. I've been reflecting on what it would have been like to have witnessed this miracle; I imagine it would have been remarkable, breathtaking. Perhaps even more remarkable is the motivation Jesus had for miraculously providing physical food - he was filled with compassion for them (Mark 8:2). Jesus cares deeply for those in need. The Bible contends that Jesus has this same type of compassion for us - humanity. And He enables a way for us to experience His compassion, at great cost to himself. 

The next time you witness something breathtaking, whatever it might be, I encourage you to stop, pause and consider Jesus. Because as breathtaking as whatever you're witnessing is, it pales in significance compared to the compassion that Jesus has for you. 

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

2023 College Book Fair Weeks 5-6 & Library Borrowing

Dates: Thursday, 9 November to Tuesday, 14 November
Location: Cuthbert Library
Stock on sale: Books for all student ages, posters, stationery
Payment: Eftpos and cash sales are available or parents are welcome to make a payment online (note receipt).

Students (not Transition and Kindergarten) will be able to visit the Book Fair in Break 2. Students in Transition and Kindergarten will be able to visit the Book Fair during their designated class times and they will be able to complete a wishlist in their diary. Parents are able to visit the Book Fair between 2.00 pm to 3.00 pm on 9, 10, 13 and 14 November.

Please contact Mrs Colombo with any questions at j.colombo@wac.nsw.edu.au

Library Borrowing Finishes on Friday, 17 November 2023
The last day for borrowing from our Libraries will be Friday, 17 November. All books will be due to come back the next week (Week 7) so that Library Staff can complete the stocktake for the year.

This does not apply to current HSC students.

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

November PD Days - Vacation Care Program

College Sponsors

Lowes Sale 20% Off

P&F Clothing Pool

The Clothing Pool has a great selection of pre-loved uniforms for purchase. Our lovely volunteers Renu, Rochelle, Janise, Phoebe, Melissa, Kath, Sonya, Kerrie, Katie, Amanda, Annette and Christina are ready to help you. The Clothing Pool is located at White Cottage, through the side windows, every morning from 7.45 am to 8.30 am.

Thank you also for the donations of uniforms, keep them coming in! 

Payment: Card Only (no cash)
Location: White Cottage through the side windows
Monday to Friday 7.45 am to 8.30 am
Phone: 4623 0286
Email: clothingpool@wac.nsw.edu.au

Have a great day! 

Mrs Melissa Whishaw
Clothing Pool Coordinator

Church Services

Community News

WAC Kids Care
From time to time, families undergo trauma such as severe or terminal illness. There are short-term support structures in place at the College to assist families during these times.

We have a collection of beautifully prepared meals that are ready for distribution to any families in need.

The WAC Kids Care Program offers support to families in the way of meals. Please contact Mrs Hay or Mrs Evans via the College Office. Confidentiality will be respected. If you know of anyone who may need meals at this time.

Go4Fun
Go4Fun is an evidence-based, free, 10-week healthy lifestyle program for NSW children aged 7-13 who are above a healthy weight and their families. The program focuses on improving eating habits, fitness, overall health, and self-esteem. 

SIMEC Tahmoor Coking Coal - Oracle the Masked Owl and Expressions of Interest for Community Consultative Community

Community Links Wellbeing (CLW) will be running the following Parenting Education courses commencing 2023:

1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching: Coming Term 4, dates to be confirmed. Taking expressions of interest now. A three-session program of 2.5 hours for parents of children aged 2-12 years old with an extra booster session for support ( four sessions in total). The 1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching program aims to help parents and carers manage difficult child behaviour with a focus on strategies and techniques that promote positive behaviour; encouragement in developing the child's ability to manage their emotional reactions; and relationship-building. 

Priority placement is given to parents in the Wollondilly, Wingecarribee and Camden LGA’s. Parents outside these areas may still be able to attend, please contact the email below to discuss further.