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Term 4 Issue 4 17th November—28th November
Dear Parents and Carers,
In this Issue:
Page
1. Principal’s Message
3. Student News
6. Duke of Edinburgh
7. Canteen Roster
8. Parent News
11. Career News
15. Community News
Upcoming Events:
TERM 4
WEEK 9
1st Dec—Year 10 History Excur-
sion 9.00am—3.00pm
1st Dec—4th Dec Year 7 Swim-
ming 2.00pm –3.00pm
3rd Dec—5th Dec Duke of Edin-
burgh
WEEK 10
10th Dec—Years 7—11 Aca-
demic Awards Evening. Chats-
wood Concourse 6.45pm
12th Dec—Advent Mass, School
picnic
12th Dec—LAST DAY FOR STU-
DENTS FOR 2014
SAVE THE DATES
OPEN DAY 2015—8TH MARCH
2015
(COMPULSORY STUDENT
ATTENDANCE)
This Sunday marks the beginning of the season
of Advent. A time we observe in our Catholic
tradition as a time of expectant waiting and
preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of
Jesus at Christmas.
It is interesting to look at the derivation of the term which in its an-
glicized version of the Latin word adventus, means "coming". So for
us it should be a time that we prepare our hearts and minds to cel-
ebrate the birth of Jesus. Yet, given the secular traditions of Christ-
mas, we spend most of our time preparing, not for a celebration of
the Christ’s birth, but for fulfilling the demands of the season. We
have to buy presents for people and make sure they are all
wrapped. We have parties to attend and parties to host. Food to
buy and the house to decorate. We have travel plans to make.
Advent is meant to be a season that we can use to refocus. Observ-
ing Advent during December should help us to draw nearer to God
in a way that allows us to understand the true meaning of Christ-
mas and the impact that the birth of Jesus should have on our
lives.
How can we refocus? Be ready to pay closer
attention to the readings, prayers, songs,
and seasonal pageantry (like the lighting of
the Advent wreath).
We had a very successful Activities Club meeting last night. As
stated in previous newsletters your daughters really needed
support from parents to ensure that sport continued at Mercy
next year; and last night we got it. I am very pleased to an-
nounce that we have a new Club Executive and conveners for
most sports. The Club is still seeking two conveners for net-
ball and one for hockey.
I want to thank all those who came to the Club’s AGM last
night and also all those who couldn’t make the meeting but
emailed their offer to take on coaching and managing a team.
Coaches and managers are still needed for some sports. If
you can help please email the Club administrator at marga-
MCC AVTIVITIES CLUB
Page 2
We had a wonderful celebration
on Tuesday night where all those
parents, grandparents and friends
who have volunteered in some
way in our College got together to
celebrate our sense of communi-
ty. It was a time for me to sin-
cerely thank all of them, for the
school could not possibly operate
without their assistance. We also
had a great time enjoying the
Thai food, wine and lots of sto-
ries.
Best wishes
Principal
Volunteer Cocktail Party
Page 3
Student News
Year 7 students had a wonderful Reflection Day with the theme of ‘On the Road as People of Mercy’. We
started with ‘ice breaker games’ and there was a lot of laughter as the balls flew through legs and over
heads. Then we read a prayer by Mary Stevenson, “Footprints in the Sand’ and had time to think about
its message and reflect on times in our lives when we have been supported by the Lord. After this we
worked in small groups to create a hand print which contained all of the things we liked about our-
selves, family, friends and school. We made a journey map and shared stories about our lives with our
friends. We also made friendship bracelets which symbolised the relationships we have as people of
Mercy. The day ended with a Liturgy which included a role play performed by a small group of students
and we exchanged friendship bracelets.
Thank you Ms Kayrooz, Mrs Thomas, Mrs D’Arcy and Mrs Greenyer for running the day and making it so
enjoyable.
Mrs H Reid
Year 7 Co-ordinator
Best wishes
Principal
Page 4
On the 6th of November, Year 8 went on an excursion to Bondi, where we saw the Sculpture by the
Sea exhibition. It was a beautiful day, the sun was out and the view from our walk along the coastline
was breathtaking. The sculptures were incredible; some of them were very unique and made us think
while others were appealing and fitted in with their surroundings. Our favourite sculpture was this
huge sculpture made entirely from colourful, recycled bottle caps, it looked really nice on the rocks
with the backdrop of the sea. There was also a sculpture of a huge frying pan which was really fitting
since it was a really hot day at the beach. There was also a sculpture of a sunset made from strings.
We had a great time at the beach with our friends looking at the stunning scenery and the amazing
sculptures. This excursion was to help us grasp a better understanding about sculptures and the way
they are made. This was to help us in our art class where we were creating pots inspired by the sea.
Isabelle and Abigail
Student News Sculpture by the Sea Excursion
Page 5
Student News
MUSICAL THEATRE CLUB 2015
Mercy Catholic College is seeking expressions of interest from students in Years 7 – 12 interested in
joining a Musical Theatre class in 2015.
The class is designed to encourage students to be innovative and multi-skilled Musical Theatre per-
formers. Students will explore the essentials of acting, singing and dancing through a range of practi-
cal exercises to gain awareness of a range of improvisation and fundamental acting techniques; devel-
oping your vocal range and ability; and developing a musical theatre performance.
A 1 hour group lesson will be held weekly after school. The class will cost $15 per week per student
($120 per 8 week term).
Please send your expression of interest to Donna D’Silva - donna.d’[email protected] or
return the completed form to the office with the following information.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Please email or return this application form to Mrs D’Silva asap:-
Student’s Name: ___________________________________ Year:_____________
Parent/Carer’s Name: ________________________________
Contact Details:
Mobile number _________________________________________
Email address __________________________________________
Page 6
Duke of Edinburgh News
This is the final reminder regarding the upcoming practice expedition
for Bronze and Silver participants on 3-4 December (Bronze) and 3-5 December (Silver). It is anticipated
that all parents and carers have looked over the information your daughter has received that details the
agenda, route, equipment list and medical information. Rather than repeating the information in the pre-
vious Newsletter, can parents be reminded to ensure that:
your daughter has all required equipment, particularly a comfortable back pack, robust shoes, wa-
terproof tent and warm sleeping bag
your daughter is prepared for wet weather and also is well protected from the sun (hat, sun cream,
sun glasses)
has sufficient water and water bottles and food (avoid heavy canned food and unnecessary fluids)
brings with her, and informs Mr Marshall of any medication required to be taken
is aware that the time of the completion of the expedition (at Mt Kuring-Gai railway station or
Chatswood Station) will be determined by the time of low tide when Calna Creek can be safely
crossed (see maps)
Please be aware of the organisation that goes into the planning of any expedition. This includes camping
areas requiring up-front payments of fees and involves a promise of a certain number of students who
shall be attending. If a student cancellation occurs within seven school days of the expedition, they will
receive only 50% of the costs that have already been paid. If less than 24 hours notice of cancellation is
provided, no money can be refunded. This is necessary because the Award within Mercy College is self-
funded and all attempts to minimise expenses are made to keep it as economical as possible for all partic-
ipants. The costs associated with any cancellation results in a debit to the Scheme’s funds, so we do hope
that parents understand this issue. If the expedition is cancelled due to Extreme or Catastrophic bushfire
conditions the money for the expedition will be held to pay for an in lieu expedition in 2015.
Congratulations to the three Duke of Ed Year 12 students who recently received their Gold Awards. Of the
three, Caitlin Lambert (right) received hers from the Governor of NSW His Excellency General The Hon-
ourable David Hurley at the Presentation of Gold Award Certificates on 26 November. During the ceremo-
ny, His Excellency mentioned that all young people who attain this highly commendable award should feel
proud of their outstanding efforts and how they will profit personally from their achievement. Well done to
all three Year 12 students (Caitlin, Emma Woo and Alanna Kellendonk). This now brings the total number
of Gold Awards achieved by Mercy College students to six! The College anticipates that these will be fol-
lowed by others who will accept the Gold challenge.
Another reminder for Year 10 and Year 11 students to complete all compo-
nents of their current activities, then to have assessors complete the re-
quired form. This is particularly important to those students who have vir-
tually completed their current award level.
Finally, on behalf of the students, tremendous gratitude is extended to all
Assessors, Supervisors and anybody else who has assisted the Duke of Ed
students undertaking their various activities. Their success would not be
possible without you.
If there are any issues regarding the expedition or anything else, please do
not hesitate to speak to Mr Marshall at the College.
Sean Marshall
Award Leader
Editor’s Message
Once again the Duke of Edinburgh scheme had a very rewarding
year. Many students have successfully completed expeditions and
learnt new skills.
A big thank you must go to Mr Marshall whose commitment to the Scheme has ensured its suc-
cess and to Mrs Kellendonk for her administrative support to the Scheme.
Ms Kavanagh
Page 7
Canteen Roster If you are unable to attend Canteen on your rostered day please try and swap with an-
other volunteer.
1/12—5/12 8/12—12/12 26/1/15—30/1/15
Mon Volunteer Required
Volunteer Required
Mon A Eaton
Volunteer Required
Mon PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Tues Volunteers Required
Volunteers Required
Tue M Hadley
Volunteer Required
Tue SCHOOL HOLIDAY
Wed S Apostolopoulos
Volunteer Required
Wed Volunteer Required
Volunteer Required
Wed L McCarthy
J Barquin
Thurs K Breusch
Volunteer Required
Thurs P Macri
Volunteer Required
Thurs I Lavermicocca
R Harper
Fri A Khorram
R Harmata
Fri A Atherton
Volunteer Required Volunteer Required
Fri A. Khorram
R. Harmata P Douglas-Robertson
I am able to volunteer in the canteen. My preference day is: (please circle)
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Part day (specify time eg 9.30-12 or 12-2.30) __________________
I am able to do: (please circle)
Once a Term Twice a Term Once a Month
Name:_____________________________
Phone:_____________________________
Email: _____________________________
Daughter/s: ________________________
Year in 2015________________________
Anna, Angela and Nancy would like to thank all the canteen volunteers for their invaluable support
throughout 2014 and wish you and your family a Merry Christmas. We say a sad farewell to those who
will not be returning in 2015 after many years of support and friendship.
If you would like to volunteer in the canteen for 2015 there is still days to be filled. Just fill out the
form below and return it to school.
Page 8
Message from the College Bursar
Annual (1) Standard (3) Monthly (10) Fortnightly (20) Weekly (40)
20/02/2015 23/02/2015 15/02/2015 13/02/2015 13/02/2015 & 20/02/2015
01/05/2015 15/03/2015 27/02/2015 27/02/2015 & 06/03/2015
24/07/2015 15/04/2015 13/03/2015 13/03/2015 & 20/03/2015
15/05/2015 27/03/2015 27/03/2015 & 03/04/2015
15/06/2015 10/04/2015 10/04/2015 & 17/04/2015
15/07/2015 24/04/2015 24/04/2015 & 01/05/2015
15/08/2015 08/05/2015 08/05/2015 & 15/05/2015
15/09/2015 22/05/2015 22/05/2015 & 29/05/2015
15/10/2015 05/06/2015 05/06/2015 & 12/06/2015
15/11/2015 19/06/2015 19/06/2015 & 26/06/2015
03/07/2015 03/07/2015 & 10/07/2015
17/07/2015 17/07/2015 & 24/07/2015
31/07/2015 31/07/2015 & 07/08/2015
14/08/2015 14/08/2015 & 21/08/2015
28/08/2015 28/08/2015 & 04/09/2015
11/09/2015 11/09/2015 & 18/09/2015
25/09/2015 25/09/2015 & 02/10/2015
09/10/2015 09/10/2015 & 16/10/2015
23/10/2015 23/10/2015 & 30/10/2015
06/11/2015 06/11/2015 & 13/11/2015
Fees 2015
All families will have received by post details of College fees for 2015.
By application to the College, fees can be paid by monthly, fortnightly or weekly instalments. If you
wish to pay by instalments or wish to change your current instalment arrangements please complete
the “Application for Time Payment of Fees 2015 attached and return it to the College office.
Any queries on fees please call me at the College office.
Mrs Louise Turnbull
College Bursar
Page 9
Parent News
Mercy College will be supporting the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Every student is invited to
bring in one or two items on the lists below for the Christmas Hampers. All items need to be
in by Friday December 5th .
FOODS
Tinned tuna, fruit and
vegetables.
Pasta
Pasta sauce
Tomato paste
Olive oil
Couscous
Flour
Breakfast cereal
Rice
Coffee, Tea, Sugar
Herbs, pepper, salt
Chicken stock
Chocolates
Lollies
Tomato sauce
Biscuits
Popcorn
Peanut butter
Nutella
Jam
Honey
Muesli bars
Pretzels
Nuts, chips
PRACTICAL ITEMS
Insect repellent
Cleaning products
Serviettes
Kitchen items-
Glasses, pots, bowls
Sheets,
Towels
Tea towels
Tablecloths
Table mats etc)
Garbage bags
Foil
Pegs
Tissues
Toilet paper
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Shampoo
Fly spray
Deodorant
Perfume
Nappies
Wipes
Vaseline
School needs
Shoelaces
FESTIVE/FUN ITEMS
Christmas decorations
Colouring-in books
Coloured Pencils/Paints
Christmas Crackers
Games
Soccer Ball Netball
Basketball Tennis Balls
Coloured hair elastics
Coloured nail polish
Sewing kit
Writing paper
Pens
Glitter
Stickers
Cinema Tickets
Vouchers
Kite
Cards
Cricket Set
Books
Photo Frames
Santa Stockings
DVDs
CDs
Christmas Hamper List
Page 10
Parent News
Page 11
Career News
School Leaver Information Evening
Wednesday 10 December - 6.00pm - 8.00pm
Macquarie University - Balaclava Road
The School leaver information evening is designed specifically for future students who are going to univer-
sity directly from high school. The evening is an opportunity to learn more about Macquarie’s outstanding
degrees, scholarships, flexibility, support and world-class facilities.
http://www.mq.edu.au/about/events/view/school-leaver-information-evening/
Bridging Courses
Macquarie University has a number of bridging courses for students who need prior knowledge in a certain
discipline before beginning their undergraduate degree.
Mathematics Bridging Course
Monday 9 February – Saturday 21 February - 10.00am – 9.00pm
http://www.mq.edu.au/about/events/view/mathematics-bridging-course/
Chemistry Bridging Course
Monday 16 February – Friday 20 February - 9.30am – 3.30pm
http://www.mq.edu.au/about/events/view/chemistry-bridging-course/
Physics Bridging Course
Monday 16 February – Friday 20 February - 9.30am – 4.30pm
http://www.mq.edu.au/about/events/view/physics-bridging-course/
Information Day 2015
Tuesday 6 January - 9.00am – 4.00pm
The University of Sydney - Camperdown/Darlington Campus
The University of Sydney Info Day provides prospective students with course advice and support for mak-
ing final decisions regarding UAC preferences. There will be over 130 mini-lectures and
talks, a variety of demonstrations, exhibitions and free entertainment. For further in-
formation please visit http://whatson.sydney.edu.au/events/published/info-day-2015
Page 12
Career News
ATAR Live Facebook Questions & Answers Thursday 18 December - 1.00am - 4.00pm
The UTS Future Students Team will be online to answer any questions you may have about your UTS
course options. Please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/671372842962083/
New Diploma of Language
The Diploma in Languages is taken concurrently with any undergraduate or postgraduate coursework
degree program at UTS. The course gives students the opportunity to learn a language in addition to
learning about the corresponding cultures and societies over six semesters (3 years part time).
http://www.uts.edu.au/future-students/international-studies/study-areas/diploma-languages
Festival of Design and Architecture
Exhibitions are now open
A series of 12 shows, spread across 8 inner city venues, showcasing student
work from UTS’s Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building. For further
information please visit https://www.uts.edu.au/about/faculty-design-
architecture-and-building/what-we-do/uts-festival-design-architecture-2014
New Diploma of Design and Architecture
Students who miss out on direct entry into design at UTS can study the new Diploma of Design & Ar-
chitecture at UTS - INSEARCH. Students will receive 36 credit points towards their design degree.
Check it on http://www.insearch.edu.au/courses/design-and-architecture
Info Day 2015
Tuesday 6 January - 9.00am – 4.00pm
UNSW Kensington Campus
Speak to staff and students about undergraduate programs and life on campus. Ipads will be availa-
ble for anyone wishing to access the UAC website after discussing program options with academics
and staff. Please visit http://infoday.unsw.edu.au/ for further information.
Page 13
Career News
Campus Tours
UNSW Campus Tours are conducted by highly trained and experienced Student Ambassadors who can pro-
vide information about the ins and outs of studying at UNSW. Tours are conducted nearly every Friday
throughout the year with tours in 2015 also being conducted at 10.00am on the first Saturday of each
month. For more information please visit http://infoday.unsw.edu.au/
Change of Preference Information Sessions
North Sydney and Strathfield Campuses
Tuesday 6 January - 9.00am – 2.00pm
An opportunity for students to enquire about their study options after receiving their ATAR.
Please http://www.acu.edu.au/about_acu/our_university/important_dates
STEPS Information Sessions Friday 21 November - 10am – 1pm
CQU Sydney - 400 Kent Steet - Sydney
Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) is a FREE, Centrelink approved enabling program
that is designed to help students acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to gain entry into
University.
Visit http://www.cqu.edu.au/calendar/event-items/graduation/steps-sydney-info-session2
January HSC Preparation Courses
University of Sydney offers HSC Preparation Courses throughout the year for a range of subjects, including
Biology, Mathematics, Economics, Physics, and more. A number of courses will be held in January 2015.
Please visit http://cce.sydney.edu.au/courses/education/hsc
Page 14
Career News
Changes to the Secondary Schools Tax File Number Application by
students
The Secondary Schools Tax File Number (TFN) Program will not continue be-
yond 31 December 2014. This means that School TFN forms will no longer
be processed through school beyond this date.
How students can apply for a TFN from 1 January 2015
The Australian Taxation Office in partnership with Australia Post is making it
easier for individuals to apply for a TFN.
Students can now apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified
through an interview at a participating Australia Post office.
Applying online is the fastest and most convenient way for students to get a
TFN. More information on applying online can be found at ato.gov.au by
searching for 'QC27248'
Students who are unable to visit a participating Australia Post office will
need to complete the application form Tax file number - application or en-
quiry for individuals form (NAT 1432). More information about lodging this
form can be found at ato.gov.au by searching for 'QC22604'
Beware of tax related scams The ATO will never send you an email requesting you to confirm, update
or disclose confidential details via a non secure channel such as email.
You should always independently verify the source before taking any
action. If you receive a communication of this nature, do not respond to
it. Forward it to [email protected]
This email contains hyperlinks. To protect your security we recommend-
ed you copy and paste them into the address bar on your browser. For
more information about ensuring your online security and to confirm that
this email is from the ATO visit ato.gov.au/onlinesecurity
Page 15
Community News
To the Catholic Community of Broken Bay,
I am writing to you as a valued member of our community to let you know that today we were advised
that Pope Francis has appointed Most Rev Dr Peter Andrew Comensoli as the third Bishop of the Diocese of
Broken Bay.
Bishop Peter is currently Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Sydney, and has most recently been Apos-
tolic Administrator of the Archdiocese.
Further information about the appointment can be found on the Diocesan website: www.dbb.org.au
In the coming days, information about the upcoming installation and celebrations will also be available on
the website.
I ask you to join with me in welcoming Bishop Peter Comensoli to the Diocese of Broken Bay as we contin-
ue our journey together.
Yours in Christ,
Fr Vincent R Casey
Diocesan Administrator
Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay
Phone: 02 9847 0226 Fax: 02 9847 0201
Caroline Chisholm Centre
PO Box 340 PENNANT HILLS NSW 1715
