The Eagle 6 September 2024

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

As I walked around the College during our Grade 6 Testing Day, I couldn’t help but think about what our future students would offer to our College over their years – both as students and later as alumni. Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of connecting with many of our alumni –in both a formal and informal setting. I am inspired by the strong relationships that our past students maintain with our College. These bonds form the foundation of a community that is as vibrant today as it has ever been and they remind us of the importance of nurturing these connections with both current and past students.

Last weekend, I attended the Old Collegians Football Club Presidents Luncheon, a celebration of both football and the lifelong friendships that endure long after graduation. The breadth of people attending was truly the highlight of the luncheon — current students, new parents, 1970s ‘stalwarts’, Golden Eagles, Baldies and our Sheagles all came together to celebrate our community. It was a day of renewed friendships and shared stories, embodying the spirit of connection that we know are so important.

We were fortunate to have Andrew Dillon, CEO of the AFL, and Greg Madigan, an alumnus and Head of AFL Victoria, as guest speakers. Both Andrew and Greg shared parts of their journey, offering insights into the challenges and ambitions for AFL and AFLW, in a conversation moderated by Tony Jones, fresh from his time at the Paris Olympics.

A special highlight of the day was the recognition of two of our longstanding alumni, Tim Naughton and Jeff Crimmins, who were presented with their official MOCFC Legend Status Plaques. Tim’s presence at the luncheon was a reminder of the enduring Marcellin spirit, and Jeff, who has faithfully served the Old Boys for over 30 years by running water for the 1st XVIII, continues to show his unwavering dedication to the College.

I acknowledge the work of the MOCFC Committee leaders Dave Howe, Matt Getson, and Matt Frost, who did an exceptional amount of work to ensure the success of the event.

As I reflect on the faces of our Grade 6 students on testing day and our Year 12 students nearing their final weeks at the College, I am reminded of the strength of our Marcellin College community. My hope is that we continue to nurture this connection, encouraging our alumni to stay involved and support the College. Together, we keep the Marcellin College spirit alive and vibrant, ensuring that this legacy of connectedness continues for future generations. Let us always strive for the highest – Virtute ad Altissima.

God bless,

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

Prayer for Peace
O God, Trinity of love,
grant us the love reflected in the actions of Jesus, in his family of Nazareth, and in the early Christian community.
Grant that we Christians may live the Gospel, discovering Christ in each human being, recognising him crucified in the sufferings of the abandoned and forgotten of our world.
Come Holy Spirit, show us your beauty, reflected in all the peoples of the earth, so that we may discover anew that all are important and all  are necessary, different faces of the one human humanity that God so loves .
Amen.
St Marcellin Champagnat, Pray for us
Mary, our Good Mother, Pray for us
And let us always remember, To pray for one another

Faith & Mission

Australian Bishops’ Annual Social Justice Statement 2024-2025
The Australian Catholic Bishops’ decades-long tradition of publishing an annual Social Justice Statement continues with the recent launch of the 2024-2025 Social Justice Statement, Truth and Peace: A Gospel Word in a Violent World.

This Social Justice Statement addresses the pressing issue of violence in society and reflects on the pathways to peace. The Bishops examine the root causes of violence, which they see as a symptom of deeper societal and spiritual crises. They stress the need for peace that goes beyond the mere absence of war, rooted instead in justice, truth and reconciliation.

Drawing on Scripture and Catholic social teaching, particularly Pope St John XXIII’s Pacem in Terris (1963) and Pope Francis’ Fratelli Tutti (2020), the statement emphasises the role of truth in building peace. The Bishops highlight the importance of dialogue, understanding and the promotion of the dignity of every person as essential components of peacebuilding. They also call for a “culture of encounter,” where differences are respected, and relationships are fostered.

The statement concludes with practical actions for Catholics and all people of goodwill, urging them to be active peacemakers in their local and global communities. This includes advocating for non-violent solutions to conflict, fostering dialogue at all levels and committing to social justice as a foundation for lasting peace.

The 2024-2025 Social Justice Statement, Truth and Peace: A Gospel Word in a Violent World, speaks powerfully to the Marcellin College community—students, parents, and teachers alike—by addressing the urgent need for peace in a world increasingly marked by conflict and division.

For the students at Marcellin College, the message is a call to be peacemakers in their daily lives. The Bishops challenge our young people to reject violence in all its forms—physical, verbal, or online—and to embrace values like respect, dialogue, and understanding. By cultivating empathy and seeing everyone as a brother, they can become agents of peace both at school and in the wider world.

For our parents, this statement resonates in the context of raising children in a society where violence and aggression can often seem normalised. The Bishops remind parents of the importance of modelling non-violence, teaching their sons to resolve conflicts peacefully, and fostering a home environment built on respect, truth, and kindness.

And for teachers and staff, the statement is a reminder that our role goes beyond academic instruction. As mentors and leaders, we are called to nurture a "culture of encounter" within the school—a space where differences are valued, and peace is cultivated through dialogue and understanding. The Bishops’ focus on the dignity of every person encourages teachers to help students see the humanity in others, regardless of their background or beliefs.

In today's world, where conflict and division often dominate, this Social Justice Statement is deeply relevant. It reminds us that peace is not an abstract ideal but something we can work towards in our relationships, schools, and communities. Through small, everyday actions—whether through kind words, listening to others, or standing up for justice—we can contribute to a more peaceful world.

Season of Creation – 1 September to 4 October
The Season of Creation is an annual celebration observed by Christians around the world, running from 1 September 1 to 4 October. During this time, we are called to reflect on our relationship with God’s creation and take action to care for our common home. Rooted in the teachings of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, the Season of Creation invites individuals and communities to engage in prayer, advocacy, and sustainable practices that promote the flourishing of the Earth and all living beings.

For us at Marcellin College, this is an opportunity to deepen our commitment to environmental stewardship. Our commitment to Sustainability and Caring for Creation is evident through the appointment of a Sustainability Coordinator and Green Team, and through ensuring that our goals and vision for Sustainability are included in our Continuous School Improvement Plan. Through small but meaningful actions—reducing waste, conserving energy, and advocating for climate justice—we can live out our faith by caring for God’s creation and ensuring a healthy planet for future generations.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission

Student Wellbeing

Term three has been an action-packed and rewarding time here at Marcellin College. Our Respectful Relationships programs have continued across all year levels, with students engaging in meaningful learning experiences. These programs have covered a wide range of important topics, including positive relationships, healthy masculinities, accessing healthcare services for males, managing anger, the impact of drugs and alcohol and the dangers of the coward punch.

These initiatives are integral to our mission of building a positive, school-wide culture. By equipping our students with the skills and knowledge to navigate these issues, we aim to help them become positive contributors to society—individuals who will bring pride to themselves, their families, and our broader Marcellin College community.

Click here to access an interview, with me, on Respectful Relationships and other College wellbeing initiatives.

Champagnat Day
Next week, we eagerly anticipate Champagnat Day, a special occasion to celebrate the legacy of our founder, St Marcellin Champagnat. There are many exciting events planned for our students to participate in, including a community liturgy that will bring us together in reflection and celebration and a range of activities including a human soccer table, karaoke machine even an opportunity to dunk some teachers in our dunk tank.

A reminder to all parents that Champagnat Day is a compulsory community day. Any absences must be accompanied by a medical certificate.

Connor Whyte Memorial Walkathon
As part of our ongoing commitment to living out St Marcellin’s example of supporting those in need, we encourage our community to donate to the Connor Whyte Memorial Walkathon. Your contributions will make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Donations can be provided using the link on Compass.

Tuning into Teens
We also want to extend our sincere thanks to those parents and carers who attended our Tuning into Teens sessions. We hope that all involved took away some key messages to assist them in engaging productively with their children. Your involvement is vital in fostering a supportive environment both at home and within our school community.

Important Reminders
For our Year 12 parents and carers, please ensure that the student agreement is completed and that valedictory tickets are purchased promptly. We also want to remind you that we will have one of our counsellors on-site during the trial examinations to support any students who may find this time stressful. Please encourage your sons to take advantage of this support if needed.

Thank you for your continued support as we strive to foster a respectful, engaged and caring community at Marcellin College.

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Learning & Teaching

Exams
As the end of Term 3 draws ever closer, we start to turn our attention to the conclusion of Units 3&4. With the VCAA exam period barely six weeks away, now is the time for students to begin their preparation – if they have not already started.

As the final VCE exams cover a full years’ worth of work there is much to review and recall, so it is important to begin preparation early.

The linked Tips for Exam Preparation is filled with insights and strategies to help students achieve their best during this time.

It is worth a reminder that students achieving the highest results in VCE studies, report that they spend 3-4 hours per night, and up to 6 hours over the weekend, on studying. They also identify that they complete as many practice exam papers as possible, with an average of 5 practice papers per subject.

Details about the September Trial Unit 3&4 Exams are now available on Compass.

While we may not ourselves be completing the exams, there is a lot parents and families can do to support their VCE student. Here are some tips for parents to help students’ study effectively:

• Create a supportive environment
• Establish a routine: Help your child create a consistent study schedule
• Encourage breaks: Short breaks can help refresh the mind and prevent burnout
• Encourage good diet and exercise: Proper nutrition fuels the brain for effective studying and physical activity can reduce stress and improve concentration
• Discuss study topics: Explaining concepts to others is a fantastic way to reinforce knowledge
• Be a quiz master: Offer to ask questions (quiz) on the material being studied
• Prepare for the exam day: On the day of the exam, ensure your child gets a good night's sleep, eats a healthy breakfast, has all their materials and is on time.

Unit 3&4 Trial Exams
Information has been made available about the upcoming Unit 3&4 Trial Exams – please check Compass for information on the timetable, student expectations and what to do in the case of illness.

While we recognise that this takes some time out of the break. However, the trial exams provide a valuable opportunity for students to familiarise themselves with the format, timing, and types of questions they will encounter on the actual exam.

By simulating the exam environment, the trial exams also assist in reducing anxiety and building confidence, allowing students to perform better under pressure. Additionally, they serve as a diagnostic tool, highlighting areas of strength and weakness, so students can focus their study efforts more effectively.

It is important that students take this trial experience seriously, and that they take some time to prepare for it.

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

From our Learning Areas

Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV)

Junior Secondary Program (JSP)
Our 2024 JSP season commenced last week with our two young, enthusiastic teams participating in an informative training session. Last night, after some more training, we participated in our first debate, enjoying a win and a near loss by only 1 point.

The boys prepared solidly and articulated their arguments confidently whilst strongly rebutting their opponents’ arguments.

Congratulations to Callum and Angus for being awarded Best Speakers on the evening.  Looking forward to our next two debates.

Ms Fran Davey, Ms Jenny Tyler and Mrs Josie Boffa

Respectful Relationships

Tomorrow Man
Hello, I am Hayden a student from Champagnat 2 and in Year 11. Over the past few weeks, the College has been lucky enough to have Tomorrow Man come in and facilitate a men’s mental health workshop for Years 10 and 11. Tomorrow Man helps men push past the stereotype, creating judgement-free spaces where they can be themselves beyond society's expectations and demands from family, school, work, and peers.  

These workshops have been outstanding for the boys, as it has provided a safe environment where many have been able to open up and talk about their lives and experiences in such a special way which certainly moved a lot of the students. 

The experience was unlike any other I've had during my time at the College and in my life. The courage displayed by many of the boys to speak up showed true character, and I'm certain it was a day to remember for many.

Thank you to Ryder and the team at Tomorrow Man for working with us boys and providing such a touching experience. 

Christina Cammarano, Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator

Staff Profile

Hello! I’m Rachael Monteleone, the College’s Compliance Officer since 2022. My role mainly involves:

• providing recommendations and advice to the Leadership Team and general staff on matters relating to the College’s legal and regulatory obligations
• contributing to policy review and implementation, and
• working with the Leadership Team to deliver training and professional learning to staff.

Prior to joining the College, I enjoyed a very fulfilling 16-year-long career as a Victorian Public Servant during which I worked across multiple government departments (predominantly and most recently in compliance and regulation, but I also worked in criminal justice administration). What I enjoy most about my role at Marcellin College is the variety of work that comes across my desk, the knowledge that I’m contributing to the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students and that my role encourages a continuous improvement focus.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, reading suspense and psychological thrillers on my Kindle and cross-stitching.

Rachael Monteleone, Compliance Officer

Celebrating Our Students Success

Hi, I’m Anton, the 2024 College Vice-Captain and I’m excited to share that I have recently been accepted into Qantas Group Pilot Academy. After a competitive and intensive application process, I am proud to share that I have been offered a position in the QG42 course commencing in February 2025.

The Qantas Academy is located in Toowoomba, Queensland, where I will live and study on-site at Wellcamp Airport for 55 weeks. As part of the course, I will be completing integrated ground theory and practical flying to become a qualified Commercial Pilot. I am incredibly excited to embark on this next chapter in my flying journey and deeply grateful to the College for all their support and encouragement that has helped me achieve this dream.

Anton, Year 12, College Vice Captain

Hi, I’m Ethan, Year 12 and Lavalla House Captain for 2024, and I would like to share that I have recently been accepted into the Royal Australian Air Force as an officer starting in 2025. Since primary school, it has been my dream to serve Australia and make a difference for the better. To achieve this goal, I joined the Australian Airforce Cadets (AAFC) in 2019 and have regularly put my hand up for extra volunteering and community service events both within and outside of Marcellin College.

All of this hard work plus months of rigorous interviews and testing eventually culminated in me receiving a letter of offer two weeks ago. I am thrilled with the news and can’t wait to head up to the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra next January. I thank the College for all the support and opportunities I have been given throughout the years.

Ethan, Year 12, Lavalla House Captain

Williem, from Year 8, Lavalla House will be participating in a walk-a-thon for Blue Dragon and Intrepid Foundation, below is an extract from Williem's sponsorship page. Well done Williem and all the best for Walk on Sunday.

My name is Williem and I’m a 13 year old high school boy from Australia. This is my 3rd year running half a marathon. It all started during COVID when we were locked down and my mum suggested I donate what would’ve been my Christmas school holidays spending money to a chosen charity. I took an interest in what Blue Dragon had to offer because here in Australia, we never talk about child trafficking, rescuing people from slavery or anything remotely that deep. The more I'm involved, the more I realise how fortunate I am to live in Australia. I want to connect with my heritage and give back to my roots. Give a hand to my less fortunate brothers and sisters in Vietnam. Help me to help them by donating your Happy Meal, your $20 or anything you can afford. Every bit counts. 

If you would like to sponsor Williem you can do so here.

The walk is on Sunday, September 8.

College Events

Business & Community Network Breakfast Talk – 19 September
Tickets are still available for the Marcellin College Business & Community Network breakfast talk featuring guest speaker Dr Monique Ryan on Thursday, 19 September at 7 am in the Functions Room.

Monique was elected to the federal seat of Kooyong in May 2022 and is the first woman and the first Independent to hold the seat of Kooyong. Formerly Director of the Neurology Department of the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne and a Professor of Medicine at both Melbourne and Monash Universities.

Monique will share insights into her recent trip as a member of the cross-party delegation which travelled to the US for the release of Julian Assange and more. This is one not to be missed!

Booking is essential and can be made here.

Create24

Marcellin College’s annual art, design and technology exhibition is back for another year. Create24 showcases student works across all years from the visual arts and product technology learning areas.

Create24 will feature:

• Live music performances by Our Lady of Mercy College Advanced Choir and Strings Quartet
• Desserts and drinks provided
• Prize giving ceremony
• Art Club mini exhibition at Riddik Café, Macedon Square
• Artist in Residence with Mr Randall Bezaire

Opening night will be held on Wednesday, 16 October at 7pm in the Atrium of the Hermitage Building.
More information will be posted on Compass in the coming weeks.

A Christmas Carol
Our Lady of Mercy College (OLMC) and Marcellin College are excited to present the 2024 M2 Theatre Company junior production, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with four shows only. Tickets go on sale Monday, 16 September. Be sure not to miss out on this spectacular production.

COMING IN TERM 4 – What’s for Dinner?
Exciting new cooking classes for boys & parents – Eat, Cook, Learn, Love, Food presented by the Parents and Friends Group.

Click on the flyer below for more details

College Counsellors

Tuning in to Teens
Marcellin College proudly hosted a series of three 2-hour seminar sessions on Tuning into Teens. The presenter was Dr Christiane Keyhoe, Principal Researcher and program specialist for Tuning in to Teens.

The content covered the emotional development of young people, the foundations of emotional coaching, and a session specifically pitched at Emotion Coaching anger and managing conflict. Parents had the opportunity to practice the skills and were able to report back the following session.

The sessions provided some excellent skills and ideas for improving communication with teenagers, and some parents said they also tried using it with other family members.

The notes from the sessions are available. Please email info@marcellin.vic.edu.au if you would like these to be sent to you. These sessions were funded through a Mental Health Grant from the Federal Government.

Rosemary Chapple & Chris Lang, College Counsellors

Community News

2024 Father’s Day Breakfast
It was another packed house for the 2024 Parents & Friends Father’s Day breakfast on Friday, 30 August. Thank you to all the dads and carers who attended with their son/s and to the mums who supported some of the logistics on the day.

We were also thrilled to have Class of 1982 alumnus, Paul Harvey, attend and sign copies of his new book, PUP. To learn more or purchase a copy click here.

Please enjoy these special messages from your sons.

Upcoming Road Changes to Marcellin College Access Road
The College has been advised by the North East Link Project (NELP) that the access road to Marcellin College is changing - please read the attached file for further information and a timeline of when these works are set to commence and finish. The College will continue to keep families informed of works as they occur and ensure any interruptions are kept to a minimum.

You’re invited to join the Men's Shed @ Veneto Club
How we can look after our mental health to help prevent mental illness, signs and symptoms to look out for in ourselves and the others around us?

What: Men’s Shed @ Veneto Club with Guest Speaker Michael Donehue
When: Tuesday, 1 October at 7 pm
Where: Veneto Club 191 Bulleen Road Bulleen (La Baracca)
Who: Men of all ages are welcome
Cost: $15 per head
Food: Gourmet pie on arrival
Subject: How to have the difficult conversations and how to break down barriers to guys getting help.
RSVP by SMS to Guido 0407444808

Click on the flyer below to learn more about guest speaker Michael Donehue.

Careers News

It is essential students obtain the most up-to-date and sufficient careers education. A lack of information and resourcing can leave students anxious when considering their options for the future. As a result, at Marcellin College, we aim to facilitate as many opportunities for students as possible, with the resources available to us.

Unlike other curriculum areas, it is up to individual schools to decide the time and resources dedicated to career education. In the current climate in Victoria, it can be a challenge for schools to prioritise career education due to competing pressures such as teacher shortages, increased demands around student mental health, and pressure for academic performance.

The Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA) is the peak body within our area. We are fortunate to have the support of the College in allowing CICA to regularly benchmark our service and implement any recommended changes and improvements. It is important we remain a dynamic, mainstream part of the College, and not viewed as an area where static intervention points are the only times students access our service.

The Smith Family’s 2022 national Pathways, Engagement and Transitions study found that 86 per cent of young people received career support at school, but just over half found it helpful. One in 10 said it was not useful at all.

We aim through our service to support all students through their journey. We encourage families to encourage students to engage in any career services on offer at the college. The data is telling us it is extremely important to student wellbeing.

A friendly reminder that the deadline for VTAC applications is 30 September. If you're planning to pursue tertiary education in Victoria next year, your application must be submitted through VTAC. 

For your application to be considered complete, you'll need to pay the $60 application fee and include at least one-course preference on your list by 30 September. Late applications will incur a fee of $150, so be sure to submit your payment on time.

 Remember that you can modify your course preferences after payment up until December. If you need assistance with VTAC accounts, preferences, SEAS, and Scholarships, there will be a drop-in session on Thursday, 12 September during Period 1.

As always, appointments for further support are available, click here to book a one-on-one meeting with either Kevin or Lara.

Kevin Kelly and Lara Ingram, Careers and Further Education

Sport Report

Summer Sport Information
The AGSV Summer Season is almost here. The 1st Basketball, Cricket, Tennis and Volleyball teams have either started their pre-season trials this week or will start them next week. All non-1st teams will begin official training in week one of term four. Compass will be the primary source of communication and all students are asked to keep a close eye on the newsfeed.

Dates for the summer season are:

• October 19, 26
• November 9,16
• February 1, 8, 15, 22
• March 1

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport

Where Are They Now

Sports Edition

Scott McKenzie, Class of 2017, shares his career and achievements after leaving Marcellin College. Since graduation, Scott has pursued his passion for sports and had the opportunity to travel and live in various countries.

Click here to read more about Scott's accomplishments since graduating from Marcellin College.