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Blue Mountains Grammar School Newsletter Vol 2, 16th February, 2018
FROM THE HEADMASTER
A Master Class Speech from Oprah Winfrey
On 10th January I watched Oprah Winfrey on the TV news receive the Cecil B. DeMille Award for
lifetime achievement at the Golden Globes.
In accepting the award she delivered a moving speech that was greeted with tumultuous applause
by the men and women in the audience.
Oprah said: “What I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have”.
Whilst she paid tribute to women who have felt inspired and strong enough to tell their stories of
hardship and abuse, her message was that we all have our part to play to make the world a better
place.
She ended with “I’ve interviewed and portrayed people who’ve withstood some of the ugliest things
life can throw at you, but the one quality all of them seem to share is an ability to maintain hope for
a brighter morning, even during our darkest nights… a new day is on the horizon!”
There were a number of qualities in her speech worthy of reflection:
Oprah:
is optimistic, appealing to our better selves, not focusing on our fears or inadequacies.
is well-versed in history. She does not long for an imaginary past. Whilst the old days were not
good for a large segment of her people in her country, she encourages her audience to continue
working towards a more perfect reconciliation of mankind.
understands that there is diversity in the world but looks for the common good in humanity,
qualities of respect, compassion and tolerance.
makes it clear that it is not all about her. She does not set herself up as the be-all and end-all.
knows that life is not always easy – hard work is required to overcome hurdles.
conveys the most important quality for a leader, namely, empathy which is the ability to
understand and share the feelings of another. This is the critical first step for leaders.
Understanding and using these qualities, Oprah feels that only then can you problem-solve, summon
resolve and inspire others to take a journey with you.
Something for us to think as we commence another year together.
Recognition of the Class of Year 12 2017
This week we welcomed back a number of our Year 12 2017
students and their parents to a special assembly to acknowledge
the academic achievements of this year group and to celebrate
their successes.
Pictured right, Mr. Barman with AJ Ho (ATAR 98.10), Dux of Year
12, 2017, and below right, with Sean Skinner (ATAR 97.25),
Proxime Accessit of Year 12, 2017.
That they had a most successful year academically is undeniable
with over 30% of the year group gaining an ATAR above 80 and
over 60% above 70.
Nearly 30% of the year group were recognised on the Sydney
Morning Herald’s Honour Roll for results gained in the top band in
particular subjects.
Last week we received our annual
detailed report from the educational
consultant who examines the
performance of last year’s HSC results of
Year 12.
That report shows that they have made
substantial ‘value added’ progress in
their courses. In fact in many courses,
100% of the students gained results
above expectations.
These results provide favourable
feedback on our students’ work ethic, the
strength of the BMGS curriculum, the
culture within the School, and most
importantly, the expertise of staff. I acknowledge the enthusiasm and dedication of my colleagues
who have provided the inspiration, the encouragement, and the opportunities for our young people
to be challenged and extended to grow and to achieve.
At the same time we acknowledge that an equally important ingredient in allowing our students to
achieve is the love, care and guidance of parents who worked in partnership with us. The support of
your child and of the staff is very much valued and appreciated.
In his address at the Assembly to those present, Sean Skinner, Proxime Accessit of Year 12 2017,
advised students to focus on their passions, set goals, persist to achieve them, be disciplined to
revise and practise essay responses, and ensure a balance between work and co-curricular activities
is maintained– that is what is required.
Year 12 2017 did this by focusing on achieving excellent HSC results and by playing their part in the
success of BMGS over the past six or more years by participating in a multitude of other areas within
the life of the school – from drama, music, public speaking, and community service, to sport, outdoor
pursuits, and as leaders of the school. They were a great group of students. They did make the most
of the opportunities on offer, and as such, have left a very positive mark on the School community.
Congratulations to the students of Year 12 2017 on gaining these fine results and for their
contributions to the life of the School. They have been a great example for current students to
follow.
We wish the students from Year 12 2017 well as they begin the next exciting chapter of their lives.
Trevor Barman
Headmaster
FROM THE ACTING CHAPLAIN
It’s the God things that Count
As I reflect on the week gone by, I cannot help but feel thankfulness and gratitude for what I, and we,
have at BMGS. Our students have shown me so much spirit and energy in their singing, laughter,
bright eyed engagement, and deep questions about the nature of God. From being a part of the
celebratory centenary service at Christ Church Springwood, to hearing my Year 5/6F class perform
our own medley of Jesus is the Answer for the World Today/Seek Ye First during chapel, I praise God
for the creative, compassionate, and deep thinking human beings who form our School community.
I am blessed to be able to traverse all schools and campuses within the BMGS community. My
journeys provide me with the opportunity to hear and learn from the widest variety of teachers and to
see how God is moving and working in the lives of staff and students alike. Our School atmosphere
that is created by teachers, responded to by students, and stirred and governed by Jesus, was truly
electric this week. I felt God’s grace, guidance and blessings in all that was said and done.
Some of my classes looked at Matthew 7:7-8 where Jesus says, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek
and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the
one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened (NIV).”
Reading these powerful verses reminds us that God is not hiding from us; the heavens are not
empty. He wants all of us to passionately and truthfully look for Him in the world around us, in
science, in music, in literature and in relationships (among many other places). If we look for God
then He promises us we will find Him. Like I so proudly witnessed this week, seeking is a matter of
truly engaging our hearts, minds, and spirits on the things that matter the most, the good things, the
God things.
L. Webb
FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION
Tonight is our Icebreakers Evening, when we welcome parents of students who have joined the
BMGS Community in 2018. Please join us in Coorah Contemporary Gallery (Senior School) at
7:30pm, to meet your fellow parents and teachers.
The Parents’ and Friends’ Association will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, 13th
March at the Senior School campus and all offices of the Executive Committee (Chair, Secretary,
Treasurer, Committee Member, Campus Representative) will be open for re-election. To continue as
a vibrant and involved organisation we need your support.
A Nomination Form for Office Bearers appears below and can be downloaded from the School Portal.
If you are interested in taking on a Committee
role, or to just be involved as an active
member, or would like more information prior
to nominating, please leave a message for me
at any of the School Receptions and I will
contact you.
I look forward to meeting you all and an exciting
2018.
Duncan Barrell
Chair, Parents’ and Friends’ Association
BMGS CENTENARY
CELEBRATIONS – 2018
An exciting calendar of special events has been
prepared to celebrate this most significant
milestone in our School’s history.
Our Centenary year opened with a special
service of worship at Christ Church,
Springwood, last Sunday, 4th February, 2018.
The Autumn Festival weekend will commence
with Cocktails at the Carrington.
We are seeking submissions from our students for our Centenary Film Festival. The theme set for
the films is “100” and it will be screened at a Movie Night during our Autumn Festival which will take
place on 16th/17th March, 2018.
The calendar of events has been published on our website. Please visit the Quick Links page for
regular updates and details of each upcoming event: http://www.bmgs.nsw.edu.au/bmgs-100-year-
anniversary Upcoming events will also be promoted on the School’s Facebook page.
BMGS Foundation Committee
FROM THE ACTING DEPUTY HEAD – HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Learning Leadership
Student Leadership is a significant part of the life of Blue Mountains Grammar School and it has
been my privilege to work with both the Student Representative Council for a number of years and
more recently the current Year 12 Captains and Prefects. Through these students have consistently
provided insights into matters which are important to students at the school and ways to continue to
ensure BMGS is a learning institution. Students have also shown a willingness to serve the school
community in a wide range of ways. This was recently exemplified by a Year 8 member of the SRC
taking initiative to meet new students at their lockers to make sure students knew how to navigate
their way to their first class for the day.
Last week I had the opportunity to reflect on the nature of leadership together with Year 12 leaders
while attending the Prefects’ Induction service hosted by St Andrews Cathedral School for student
leaders across the Sydney region. At the conclusion of the service, the organist filled the sandstone
expanse of the cathedral with a rendition of excerpts from the Star Wars score. Within that moment
it was difficult not to be moved by the challenge issued to all leaders – self-sacrificial service to
others modelled on the example of Christ. Costly and other person focused leadership.
Of course it is important to note that students do not need to have an official title or wear a badge to
exhibit leadership. Leadership can be found on camp next week for Year 7 and Wilderness
Education. It is found backstage during a production. Leadership is found on the sporting field and it
is found in the classroom when students take the initiative to draw the best out of their peers. In fact
it is my firm belief that leadership is caught rather than taught. To this end I would like to thank all
staff in the Senior School for the way in which they model leadership and also providing
opportunities every day for students to learn leadership. BMGS is indeed a fine place to experiment
and grow into young men and women equipped to serve society for the common good.
It is little surprise that two members of the public stopped to complement the school for the fine
example in speech, uniform and conduct the Year 12 leaders were setting while in Sydney last week.
Thank you to all school leaders, both with and without official titles, for building upon the strong
tradition of excellence in student leadership at BMGS. I look forward to working with all student
leaders over the course of the year.
A. Beitsch
FROM SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENT RECEPTION
Important Notice to Parents: Medical Information Updates
Parents are reminded that Medical Records should be reviewed and updated regularly.
Please visit the Parents' Portal and check your child's current Medical Record, advising any
alterations/updates as soon as possible.
If your child has been diagnosed with Asthma, Anaphylaxis, Diabetes or Epilepsy since you lodged
your previous Medical Information update, please note that you must provide the School with a
current Management Plan from your GP. Management Plans should be updated every twelve
months.
FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD – TEACHING & LEARNING
Important Dates for Term 1:
Year 12 Parent Teacher Night: Thursday, 8th March
Year 7 Parent Teacher Night: Wednesday, 21st March
Year 10 Parent Teacher Night: Thursday, 5th April
Year 11 Parent Teacher Night: Thursday, 24th May
Some steps for success in school
1. ASK FOR HELP: Ask for help whenever you are unsure about anything.
2. ASK FOR HELP: Ask for help whenever you are unsure about anything. (It is in twice because it
is so important!!)
3. POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Look for ways to enjoy things about school and be positive in your
attitude. It makes a big difference.
4. USE CLASSTIME: Really make the most of every lesson, staying focused and on-task and
completing all the work your teacher gives you. Start to really listen and think in every lesson.
5. HOMEWORK DIARY: Get in the habit of always checking it every afternoon when you get
home. Stay up-to-date in your homework and complete all work.
6. START EARLY: Start assignment and test preparation early. You may be given other work later
on so it is a good idea to start your assignments straight away and even try and have them
finished a bit before the due date.
7. ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST: Don't worry about comparing yourself to other people, just always
aim to do your best in everything you do for school and you will feel happy and your teachers
and parents will be pleased with your effort.
BMGS Parent Portal
Many of you are aware that communication is essential as we all work together with the students.
The BMGS Portal is a great way of keeping in touch with School events, seeing what your child is
learning, recording absences and ensuring your details are accurate. The School must have your
email address in order for you to access the portal.
If you have forgotten your password, please click “Forgotten your password” and proceed from there.
M. Hastie
FROM THE HEAD OF MUSIC
2018 Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra
Last Thursday Miriam Cooney (Year 11) was invited by Richard Gill, one of Australia’s eminent music
educators and conductors, to perform as a guest Oboe Soloist at a fundraising concert for the
Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra. The concert was held at History House, Sydney and
was attended by Board Members and distinguished guests of the Orchestra. This is an outstanding
achievement!
BMGS Contemporary Vocal Ensemble
I am excited to announce that Amelia Nell will be running the inaugural Blue Mountains Grammar
Contemporary Vocal Ensemble. Rehearsals commence next Monday, 20th February from 3:15pm –
4:20pm in the Recital Room of the Performing Arts Centre. The Contemporary Vocal ensemble is
open to any BMGS student and will perform a variety of repertoire from various genres including
rock, pop, jazz, and rhythm and blues.
Upcoming Musical Community Events
Choral Workshop
A reminder that Réka Csernyik, one of Australia's foremost experts in Choral conducting, will be
hosting a Choral workshop on Sunday, 25th February at 2.00pm at Wentworth Falls Public School
Falls Road, Wentworth Falls. The cost is $10 per person, and includes afternoon tea.
The Byrd Consort with ‘Recorder Collective’ presents Easter Polyphony
Renaissance to Bruckner, Saturday 10th March, at 3:00pm at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta and
Sunday, 11th March, 3:30pm at St Mary’s Cathedral Crypt, Sydney. Entry: $12 Concession: $8
Diary Dates:
Icebreakers: Friday, 16th February - Chamber Ensemble, Coorah
Encore: Monday, 19th February – Year 11 and 12 Elective Music - 3:30pm
Soirée #1: Thursday, 22nd March – Performing Arts Centre
Centenary Church Service: Sunday, 18th March – Chamber and Choristers, St. Alban’s Anglican
Church, Leura, 2:30 pm
D. Smith
FROM THE LEARNING ENRICHMENT DEPARTMENT
This term I am in the Library Resource Centre (LRC) after School on
Tuesdays from 3:15pm-4:45pm. This after school assistance can also
include help in organising a study plan or just general assistance in
organising your workload.
If you are interested in attending, it is a great idea to contact me on
email [email protected] so that I can prepare best for the
time spent together.
A. Michielsen
FROM THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
After School English Study
From Week 3, students in Years 7 to 12 will be able to seek additional after-school tutoring and
assistance with their English studies. Students are welcome to attend either Tuesday and
Wednesday afternoons in the LRC, so bring along your English homework or assessment tasks and
be pro-active about your learning in this challenging but rewarding key learning area.
Enquiries from students or parents can be directed to Mr Horne at [email protected]
G. Horne
FROM THE TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
The NSW Champion F1 in Schools team, Clutch Control,
pictured here with their WSU Solar Car mentors in the
holidays, would like to announce a guessing competition
as their final fundraiser.
First prize is an overnight stay at the Fairmont Resort for
two with full buffet breakfast, second prize is a $100
voucher for JB HiFi; and third prize a day pass for
Wet'n'Wild Western Sydney. Tickets are available from
Coorah or from the members of the team, and are $2.00
each or three for $5.00. The competition will be drawn
during assembly on Wednesday, 28th February.
M. Laws
FROM THE UNIFORM SHOP
The Uniform Shop is now using compostable BioBags for all your purchases/orders. These green
bags are certified compostable, so please use, reuse and then compost.
From Week 3 (Monday, 12th February) the new Uniform Shop hours will be:
Monday: 8:15am – 1:15pm
1:15pm -1:45pm CLOSED
1:45pm – 3.30pm
Tuesday: 8:15am – 1:45pm K. Arrell
FROM THE HEAD OF SPORT
This weekend all Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball teams playing at Home, together with our First XI Cricket
team. It will be a great day to head up to BMGS to see how your son or daughter is doing in their
respective teams.
ISA 2017 Winter Season
Students should be starting to think about what sports they would like to play during the winter
season, as nominations will be sent out in the coming weeks. If you are unsure about a sport that
you are interested in, see the MIC of the particular sport to find out more. At the Week 5 Assembly
the Captains of each of the winter sports will be giving a presentation which will provide students
with more information about each of these sports.
Rugby – Mr Forsyth [email protected]
Boys’ Football – Mr Singh [email protected]
Girls’ Football –Ms Wade [email protected]
Netball – Mrs O’Doherty [email protected]
Hockey – Mrs Hyslop [email protected]
NSWCIS Triathlon
On Thursday 1st March, a number of students will be competing at the NSWCIS Triathlon at the
Sydney Regatta Centre at Penrith. If you have not yet completed the forms on the bench in my office
then time is running out. All names must be registered by the end of this week.
Competition information:
Individual day (28th February)
Juniors 12, 13, 14 years 400 m SWIM 10 Km CYCLE 3 Km RUN
Intermediates 15, 16 years 600 m SWIM 15 Km CYCLE 4 Km RUN
Seniors 17, 18, 19 years 750 m SWIM 20 Km CYCLE 5 Km RUN
Team day (1st March)
Relays
(Juniors) 400 m SWIM 10 Km CYCLE 3Km RUN
(Intermediates/Seniors) 600 m SWIM 15 Km CYCLE 4Km RUN
All students who have nominated to compete in this event are reminded that they need to hire a
BMGS singlet from the Uniform Shop. This will need to be done on a Monday or Tuesday before the
1st March.
All riders must ensure that they have checked the new requirements for bikes and they have a
helmet which must be worn on the day. Requirements are detailed on the NSW CIS website:
https://cis.aisnsw.edu.au/Pages/default.aspx
New Active Kids Program
The $100 rebate for Active Kids can be applied to sports that are organised by local organisations.
Those students who play in the BMGS 14s team for cricket and BMGS in the local Basketball
competition can apply for this rebate. Unfortunately this cannot be applied to school Saturday sports
programs.
Congratulations
Some sporting results have made it to my office regarding recent achievements by BMGS students
outside the School’s programs – remember let me know if you have achieved success in your sport.
Athletics
Athletics NSW Country Championships
Will Zakis (Year 7, Pitt House) 1st Place in the 1500m making him U13 Country Champion for this
event and 3rd in the long jump.
Little Athletics NSW Region 3 Championships, Dubbo.
The following athletes have qualified to progress to State Championships in the listed events:
Will Zakis (U12 Boys) – 1st 1500m, 1st 800m, 2nd 400m
Jett Fendall (U12 Boys) – 2nd 3000m
Max Lucas (U13 Boys) – 1st 800m, 2nd 400m
Casper Larkin (U12 Boys) – 2nd high jump, second 1500m
Mirah Larkin (U14 Girls) – 2nd 300m, 2nd 1500m
Angus Herron (U12 Boys) gained third place in javelin but has to wait on results from other
competitors to know if he has progressed to state. Regardless, his placing was a fine achievement.
Swimming
Mirah (Year 9) and Casper (Year 7) Larkin competed at the Mountains and Plains Summer Swimming
Championships over the weekend and achieved personal bests in several events. Mirah was also
awarded MPS Open Women's Champion and Casper was awarded the MPS Aged Champion 12
Years Boys.
M. Harris
Saturday Sport Fixtures 17th February, 2018 - Round 9
Team Opponent Venue Time Court Bus INFO
Girls’ Basketball
Open A Barker BMGS 2:00pm 1
N/A
Open B St Spyridon BMGS 11:30am 2
Open D Barker (New) BMGS 1:30pm 2
Inter B St Spyridon BMGS 12:00pm 1
Junior A BYE BYE BYE
Junior B St Spyridon BMGS 12:30pm 2
Junior C St Spyridon BMGS 1:00pm 1
Boys’ Basketball
1st V St Spyridon BMGS 9:30am 1 N/A
17s St Spyridon BMGS 8:30am 1
15s St Spyridon BMGS 10:30am 2
14As St Spyridon BMGS 9:30am 2
13s St Spyridon BMGS 8:30am 2
14Bs Oakhill Red BMGS 11:00am 1
Cricket 1st XI Chevalier BMGS 10:00 am N/A
14’s Hazelbrook Gloria Park 8:30am N/A
Match Reports - 10th February, 2018
Cricket BMGS 1st XI defeated Redfield College
On Saturday the 1st XI played Redfield College at home and BMGS were sent in to bat in the first
innings. Zac Franklin and Ethan Cusick got us off to a good start, with an opening stand of 41.
Unfortunately, we then lost our next four wickets for only two runs putting us in a bit of trouble. Daniel
Lane (18) and Christian Wright (31 n.o.) stopped the flow of wickets with a partnership of 43. The
innings ended with a reasonable total of 129. Our bowlers again stepped up, with Christian Wright
taking his second 5-wicket haul in two weeks (5/27) and being well supported by Jude Danta (3/13)
and Tom Bloodsworth, who bowled an outstanding spell, taking 2/3. Redfield were finally dismissed for
81. This week we are at home against Chevalier.
S. Collins
Girls’ Basketball
BMGS First V were defeated by Redlands, 62-40
The last game we had against Redlands was a tough game, which we lost by only one point. However,
yet again, the six week break did make a difference for us to the way in which we played. As a team we
didn’t play badly; the girls put a lot of effort into trying to win the ball. Unfortunately, the difference in
the game was which team could sink their shots more consistently and, sadly, that wasn’t us. Although
the girls did play well it just wasn’t enough to come away with the win.
BMGS Open B were defeated by Barker College, 35-12
The Open Bs had a tough game this past weekend against Barker College. After a slow start, the Bs
were able to regain their focus and stop the opposition from scoring whilst putting up four goals of their
own. This left the girls behind by only three baskets. The Open Bs attack struggled a little as they tried to
play at the same speed as the Barker side, which left the girls flustered and tired. Unfortunately, Barker
ran away in the last half and created a score gap that could not be closed again. Overall, it was a
tremendous effort by the Open B side.
BMGS Open C were defeated by Barker College, 23-4
The Senior Cs had another tough game against Barker. The girls played very well but it was difficult for
us to get in front of their defence. We worked hard for the rebounds and as a result we had a few
opportunities to get the ball back down the court. Although we didn't score many points the defence in
the key stopped Barker scoring on more than one occasion.
BMGS Intermediate B were defeated by Redlands, 42-12
BMGS Intermediate B were defeated by Redlands B, 24-8
The Inter Bs played two exceptional games against Redlands over the weekend. They scored the most
in any game all season against the top team, which was a terrific achievement and the girls should be
very proud of themselves. They played two strong games and kept both teams on their toes, testing
their skills throughout the entirety of the games. The two games over the weekend displayed immense
skill and truly showed everyone how far they have developed as a team. Hopefully the girls will get a few
wins under their belt in the final weeks of the competition.
BMGS Junior A were defeated by Redlands, 45-15
This week’s game brought the Junior A girls up against Redlands in their second last game of the
season. After a very close game against the Redlands team in the last round, our girls came out firing,
showing that they were a team to be reckoned with, drawing a few early fouls and making the most of
their free throws. The game, however, was quite physical and in hot, humid conditions with only two
substitutions, I was extremely impressed with the girls’ continuous effort to play the best game they
could. Unfortunately, the BMGS girls began missing some easy shots which opened up the lead to
Redlands, who then made the most of some fast breaks and their height advantage. Overall, the BMGS
girls continued to play in a sportswoman-like manner, despite a very contact heavy game and they
should be very proud of their efforts.
C. Ingold – MIC Girls’ Basketball
Boys’ Basketball
BMGS 13s were defeated by Oxley College, 25-22
The 13s fell just short (3 points!) of defeating Oxley College this weekend. The boys played very well at
both ends of the court, but committed too many fouls on defensive plays towards the end of the match
to pull off the win. Due to timetabling, I was unable to coach the team for the first part of the game, so
I'd like to give a huge thank you to Mr Brischetto for doing an excellent job in my absence. Hopefully we
can build on this performance and end the season on a winning streak.
BMGS 14A defeated Oxley College, 26-15
Round 8 provided our team the opportunity to make a statement against Oxley College, who are sitting
one spot above us on the ladder. The boys were ready from the tip-off, pushing out to an early lead. By
the end of the first half, we had a handy lead and held Oxley to three points. The boys showed excellent
team work throughout the game and never lost the lead. Over the last two rounds, the team has
demonstrated their potential to push the better teams to their limits. We look forward to continuing the
positive play into next round against the ladder leading St Spyridon.
BMGS 14B were defeated by St. Patrick’s, 18-15
The Under 14B boys were again in fine form on Saturday in their home game against St. Patrick’s. Kane
Molla was MVP of the match as he went on a scoring streak of four baskets in a row. Thomas Tinsey
held down the centre position playing great defence throughout the game and taking numerous
rebounds. The entire game was very close, with the BMGS boys maintaining their lead for the majority of
the game. Samuel Cooke clinched a seminal free throw when it really mattered and Raphael Davey was
a terrific all-rounder, setting up many great plays throughout. Elliot Palmer and Fin Hastie displayed
confidence and style as power forwards and some outstanding handling of the ball was seen between
the pair. Tyler Frost played a subtle yet pertinent role in keeping the team’s energy up as things became
heated between both sides. The St. Patrick’s boys pulled ahead at the last minute, leaving the final
score at 15/18, St. Patrick’s win. Again, Mr. Webb was proud of his team’s huge improvement over the
last two weeks and the parental support of many team players was the icing on the cake.
BMGS 15s were defeated by Oxley College, 32-24
The U15s boys showed how far they have come this season with a much improved performance this
week against a weakened but formidable Oxley team. We were shorter in stature but managed to
consistently out-rebound Oxley and, with two minutes to go, the match was drawn at 24-all.
Unfortunately, Oxley managed to pull away in these final minutes to secure the win but the U15s should
be proud of their performance with everyone contributing. This game bodes well for the last two games
of the season and onwards for this team.
BMGS 17s defeated Oxley College, 30-12
The 17s had a solid game against Oxley
College, teamwork improved as the
game went on and defence within the
game started strong. However, our
shooting percentage was not ideal. The
boys executed necessary plays to pull off
a great win against Oxley.
BMGS 1st V defeated Oxley College, 55-
53
The Firsts played Oxley College with only
one true Centre, however, the boys
adjusted well and showed that when
they work together as a team they can
achieve anything they set their minds to.
Overall, the boys had a great game!
There was a point in the third quarter
when teamwork was not in evidence,
allowing Oxley College back into the
game and, as a result, the boys lost the
lead. However, the boys dug deep, found
their extra energy stores and pulled
through a great win, with necessary free
throws and a great execution of a play
off the white board. The boys should be
proud for playing ‘til the final buzzer
rang!
V. Morgan-Hort, MIC Boys’ Basketball
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
FROM THE HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
Our School year is now well underway and children are settling in to new routines and looking
forward to opportunities ahead. It was great to see so many interested parents come in and join the
teachers for the recent Parent Information sessions and our Year 6 children are looking forward to
their Prefects’ Induction Ceremony next Thursday, February 22nd from 1.30pm.
Congratulations to all of the children in their new leadership roles:
School Captains – Indie James and Charlie Mannes
Hughes Deane House Captains – Max Klein and Sophia Murray
MacLaurin Kelley House Captains – Sebastian Cooke and Josie Howarth
Ziele Pitt House Captains – Oscar Costigan and Kate Fraser
Wellbeing Leadership Team
Jack Laurie, Isabel O’Hare, Gracie Saunders
School Service Leadership Team
Joel Cleary, Nick Collins, Zac Dalton, Oliver Mills-Mateer
Co-curricular Leadership Team
Tom Archer, Luke Ferguson, Jasper Frosh, Samuel Gander, Robert Griffith, Tom Hitchenson, Fred
Horwood, Hayley Ling, Jye Mackin, Jonathan McHugh, Arthur Pero Gorrick, James Saad, Connor
Snedden, Meri Tinkler-Smith
We hope parents will be able to join us at our Induction Ceremony to help celebrate this opportunity
for our 2018 School Leaders.
Next Friday, 23rd February is our annual Swimming Carnival for all students from Years 3 to 6.
Information has been sent home and may be found on the Portal. Spectators are warmly welcomed
and all children expected to attend whether swimming or not. I encourage every child to have a go
even if he or she is not the strongest swimmer as these School Carnivals are just as much about
participation and camaraderie as they are about competition. This is one of my favourite days of the
year and I am very much looking forward to it.
N. Cockington
EARLY LEARNING BUILDS UP ‘STEAM’! Following some exciting Staff professional
development earlier in the term, the Early Learning
students and Staff have been embarking on a range
of different real world problems.
Working within classes and across Pre-Kindergarten
to Year 2, the students are using their Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills to
tackle these design challenges with a real world
application.
1/ 2 K was given the challenge to design a stand-
alone structure to keep marshmallows out of reach of
Pre-Kindergarten students!
Teams of Early Learning children worked together to think of different ways to find out which teacher had the
fastest toy car. These activities have involved planning, construction, testing and evaluating.
Lots of valuable skills are being developed as well as having a lot of fun!
B. Knebel
JUNIOR SPORTS NEWS
Basketball Results - Term 1, Round 10
On Friday night our two 5/6 Boys’ teams played against each other in a very exciting game. Mrs
Knebel said it was a really close game right up until the last ten minutes of the game.
On Saturday morning the 3/4 Red and Gold teams also played one another and that, too, was a
tightly contested game for the first half.
It is wonderful to hear the students encouraging each other on the court and to see them giving each
match their absolute best efforts. We have 50 students, not just playing the awesome game of
Basketball but also learning about fair play and the importance of having fun with their friends and
to encourage those who are giving it their all.
Our Basketball Presentation will be on Friday, 6th April at 3:10pm in Coote Hall. The Presentation
usually runs for one hour and is a great way to finish our season. To assist with the smooth running
of this Presentation, I would like all those who can contribute a plate of food to share, to place it in
the Junior School kitchen at the start of the day. If your food requires refrigeration, just pop it in the
fridge. I have also approached one student from each team to write a small thank you speech for
their coach and to collect a donation from each player in their team to purchase a gift for their
coach. They will be in touch with you soon.
Reminder:
Check the draw at http://www.bmbasketball.com.au/draws.html to see what time your game is on
so you are prepared.
Results:
5/6 Boys’ Gold played BMGS Blue - BMGS Gold won 16 to 8
3/4 Mixed Red played BMGS Gold - The Red team won 26 to 6
3/4 Mixed Blue played The Cheerios - The Blue team won 44 to 14
5/6 Girls’ White played The Allstars - The Allstars won 35 to 14
5/6 Girls’ Red played Superstars - The Superstars won 32 to 12
L. Gerrard
FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION
Tonight is our Icebreakers Evening, when we welcome parents of students who have joined the BMGS
Community in 2018. Please join us in Coorah Contemporary Gallery (Senior School) at 7:30pm, to meet your
fellow parents and teachers.
The Parents’ and Friends’ Association will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, 13th March at
the Senior School campus and all offices of the Executive Committee (Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Committee
Member, Campus Representative) will be open for re-election. To continue as a vibrant and involved
organisation we need your support.
A Nomination Form for Office Bearers appears on Page 4 or this Newsletter, or it can be downloaded from the
School Portal.
If you are interested in taking on a Committee role, or to just be involved as an active member, or would like
more information prior to nominating, please leave a message for me at any of the School Receptions and I
will contact you.
I look forward to meeting you all and an exciting 2018.
Duncan Barrell
Chair, Parents’ and Friends’ Association
FROM THE HEAD OF THE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Parents’ Information Evening
The Preparatory School held our annual Parents’ Information Evening on Wednesday, 14th February.
A big thank you is extended to all the parents/carers who gave up the possibility of a romantic
Valentine’s Day dinner to spend the evening with us!
There was an impressive number of parents/carers who came along to hear the details of the
learning journey each class will be undertaking this year and to meet the classroom teachers and it
is a pleasure to partner with all of you in the education of your children.
Book Club
The first issue of Scholastic Book Club was sent home last Friday, 9th February. Orders need to be
completed by Tuesday, 20th February. Parents/carers are reminded that all orders need to be
completed online. If you require any assistance completing the online ordering process, please come
to Preparatory School Reception.
Swimming Carnival:
Our Stage 2 students will be competing with the Junior School at the Swimming Carnival on Friday,
23rd February at the Lawson Pool. Buses will leave the Preparatory School for the venue at 8:20am
and will return by 3:15pm. Parents/carers are welcome to attend the Carnival.
Coles ‘Sports for Schools’
Once again the Preparatory School is participating in the Coles’ Sports for School program. When you
are next shopping at Coles, please do not forget to collect the tokens from the checkout operator.
You should receive one token for every $10 spent.
Tokens can be dropped into the box in Preparatory School Reception.
Visitors to Preparatory School
A reminder to parents/carers that all visitors to the Preparatory School must report to Reception
upon arrival.
Items such as School equipment or lunches that are to be dropped off during the day can be left at
Reception and will then be passed on to your child.
Awards:
Kindergarten – Lily Foate and Maya Sataka
Stage 1 – Olivia Rossiter and Michael Pickett-Kelly
Stage 2 – Isabella Rossiter and Declan Thomas
A. Brace
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – FEBRUARY 2018
Friday, 16th February – Year 10 Wilderness Education Expedition, Malaita Point
Friday, 16th February – Icebreakers Evening
Monday, 19th February – Music Elective students, Encore Excursion
Tuesday, 20th February – Senior School Swimming Carnival, Katoomba
Tuesday, 20th February – Junior School LRC Author Visit, Jack Heath
Wednesday, 21st February to 23rd February – Year 7 Camp
Thursday, 22nd February – 2019 Scholarship Testing Day/Senior School Open Morning
Thursday, 22nd February – Junior School Captains’ Induction Service
Friday, 23rd February – Preparatory and Junior Schools’ Swimming Carnival, Lawson
Saturday, 24th February – Senior School Open Morning