The Eagle 16 June 2023
Principal's Report
Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,
It has been yet another busy fortnight at Marcellin College and we have much to be thankful for and to celebrate.
Careers Week
This week we have had several speakers and representatives from universities and other tertiary providers share information with different year levels about future pathways and study beyond Marcellin College. Our Year 10 students also visited a number of universities to gain an understanding of the opportunities university life can offer. It was an eventful week where students focussed on future pathways and I thank Ms Lara Ingram and Mr Andrew Belli for their organisation and support throughout the process.
Examination Period
Many of our boys recently completed their Semester One exams. They were excellently behaved and clearly understood the importance of this experience. As we return to this routine, we know that some students may find the process difficult and it is important that they see this as an opportunity for improvement and growth. Feedback from the exams will occur early in Term 3 and it will allow our students to see how they perform under the pressure of exams as they look to building their strategies for future exams.
2024 Subject Selection
My thanks to all the parents who attended our recent information nights regarding 2024 subject selections for our young men. This begins a process where our students are challenged to think about their future pathways. For some, the choice is easy as they are clear in their goals and future careers. While for others, it is a time where dialogue and extra support is necessary to ensure that they keep their options open. I encourage you to speak to your sons and please ask them to reach out to our careers and pathways staff if they require help.
2024 Course Guides and supporting information can be found on Compass.
Payroll Tax
Last week I shared information regarding the announcement from the State Government about a new payroll tax that would have implications on the College’s finance. As a follow-up, I have added a Compass post that asks for your continued support as Catholic schools continue to pressure the State Government on this issue.
As we head off for a well-deserved three-week break, we keep those on our Cricket Overseas Tour in our prayers. I wish everyone a safe and restful break as we look towards another busy Semester.
God Bless.
Marco Di Cesare
Principal
Let Us Pray
Lord, You have taught us through Your Word to love one another and to care for those in need.
Open our eyes to the struggles faced by those who live on the fringes of society.
Help us to see them not as burdens, but as individuals deserving of dignity, respect, and compassion.
Grant us the wisdom to recognize the injustices that perpetuate poverty and marginalisation in our world.
Give us the courage to stand up against these injustices and advocate for change.
May we never turn a blind eye or harden our hearts, but instead, may we be agents of transformation and instruments of Your love.
Grant us the humility to acknowledge that we too may need help at times.
May this awareness deepen our empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by the poor and the marginalised.
Fill our hearts with a desire to uplift and empower them, offering them a glimpse of hope and a brighter future.
May Your love shine through us and touch the lives of those we encounter. In Your precious name, we pray.
Amen
Faith & Mission
Embracing Faith-in-Action
Marcellin College’s Christian Service Programs
At Marcellin College, faith in action lies at the heart of our Catholic Marist education. Our commitment to Christian service programs goes beyond the classroom, allowing our students to embrace compassion, empathy, and social responsibility. St Marcellin himself, in the way of Mary and Jesus, emphasised the importance of serving others, especially the marginalised and disadvantaged.
Led by our Youth Ministry Game Changers team comprised of staff and students, we seek to create a community that reflects Gospel values, such as love, compassion, justice, and service. Faith in action encourages our students to embody these values in their daily lives and interactions with others, making their faith tangible and visible.
As we look forward to next term, we are excited to announce our upcoming Vinnies Winter Sleep-Out, a transformative experience that aims to shed light on homelessness and raise support for those in need whilst raising much needed financial support for Vinnies. The Vinnies Winter Sleep-Out will occur from 6pm on Friday, 11 August until 7am Saturday, 12 August. This date coincides with National Homelessness, the theme of which this year is: "It’s time to end homelessness."
We invite you to join us in this important endeavour by sponsoring our students and encouraging your sons to be participate. Together we can make a lasting impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and work towards building a more compassionate and just society.
Further information will be made available to the College Community early next term.
Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission
Student Wellbeing
The College Wellbeing Team have been busy animating several student-centred initiatives over Semester One. Led by Christina Cammarano (Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator), we have acknowledged many significant dates including, International Women’s Day, National Close the Gap Day and IDAHOBIT Day, in recognition of diversity and minority groups.
Our students have also completed tasks during pastoral time relevant to their social, emotional, and academic development, including topics such as men’s mental health awareness, gambling awareness, safer internet strategies and study / organisational tips to reinforce their wellbeing beyond the classroom.
As part of our commitment to Respectful Relationships in our community, students in Years 7 to 11 will participate in bespoke wellbeing days in term three designed by our House Leaders focusing on age-specific content related to challenging social stereotypes and the promotion of health habits and relationships. As part of the Senior Seminar Program, our Year 12 students will continue to engage with Respectful Relationship and age-appropriate content for their transition from secondary school.
The Pastoral Care Team also wishes to extend our gratitude for the support of all families and students over the past two terms and hopes every student has a safe and restful mid-year break.
Phil Kamay
Director of Students
From our Learning Areas
Year 11 VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) & Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC)
Structured Workplace Learning Term Two 2023.
The VCE VM and VPC students have been enjoying learning onsite on their industry experiences.
The students have applied their VCE VM & VPC learnt lessons, and their skills acquired from their Semester One VET studies in real situations and we thank all the employers who willingly invite them into their company and teach skills and experiences that cannot be achieved in the classroom.
This is the trueness of combining many facets of knowledge, teaching styles and environments to create a varied and in depth VCE VM and VPC Program.
Thank you to all who participated and supported the program, especially our wonderful ‘taxi’ parents!
Fran Davey, Learning Leader - Applied Learning & VET
Year 8 Drama Performance Evenings
Last Monday and Tuesday, the Year 8 Drama classes showcased their unique performances in the first-ever theatre evening dedicated to our middle school students.
The beginning of the semester was spent exploring the theatre styles of Indigenous Australian Theatre and La Commedia Dell'Arte, as the students began to experiment with expressive skills and fundamental theatre techniques, such as improvisation and transformation of character.
From here, the students expanded their horizons, researching other areas of theatre to then create their own plays to entertain their family and friends with.
As drama teachers, it was a pleasure to watch the crowd, as they marvelled over the courage and confidence the boys had in stepping out of their comfort zones and committing to their storylines as a group. We hope that the Year 8 students will consider bringing their newfound strengths to the Junior Production this year which will be performed with Our Lady of Mercy College.
Christina Cammarano & Michelle Bellis,
Peter Harte & Cameron McKenzie - Drama Teachers
Success for our future Scientists
The Big Science Competition, which is organised by Australian Science Innovations, is one of the biggest international science competitions and is an easy way to challenge students track their performance against state or national averages. A total of nineteen Year 7 students from Marcellin College took part in the Big Science Competition last month and attained some outstanding results.
Congratulations to Williem Doung and Callum Maynier for being awarded a High Distinction in the competition. This result places these students in the top 5% in their year level in the country.
Congratulations also to Julian Olivieri, Lucas Mikolich and Roman Mastrangelo for being awarded a Distinction in the competition. This result places these students in the top 10% in their year level in the country.
Many of the other participants were awarded a credit which indicates their strong Science knowledge
Rajnesh Ram, Learning Leader Science
Community News
Friends of Football Brunch
In a departure from the past, this year’s Friends of Football event was held on a Saturday, 3 June as a brunch prior to the First XVIII match played between Marcellin College and Penleigh & Essendon Grammar School (PEGS).
We had a great turn out including parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers and other family members, as well as past Collegians and members from the Marcellin Old Collegians Football Club (MOCFC).
College Principal, Marco Di Cesare, welcomed everyone before the official proceedings were kicked off by Ryan Edwards, First XVIII coach, along with Captains Lachlan Hall from PEGS and Will Lorenz from Marcellin College. Ryan interviewed the boys who both spoke well and enthusiastically about their football before heading off to warm up in the rain and mud whilst the guests enjoyed an extensive buffet breakfast in the warmth.
We were very fortunate to again welcome a fantastic panel of AFL football identities including Stephen Silvagni (Class of 1985) who played for Carlton, Leo Barry (current parent) who played with Sydney Swans, Paul Broderick (current parent) who played with both Fitzroy and Richmond, and Callum Brown (Class of 2017) who plays for Collingwood. A huge thank you to these four men who entertained us with stories and inside information on their playing days.
The panel was hosted by current parent Shaun La Motte who did a fantastic job of firstly providing a highlights package of each guest and then getting some interesting stories from each one. We thank him for his time spent preparing for this day and for doing such a great job.
Our guests headed out to watch the two teams play before coming back into the room for a half time pie and sausage roll before watching the final two quarters where the Marcellin College crowd was more than happy that our boys came away with the win.
We thank our very generous raffle donors - The Westin Hotel, Tesoro Restaurant, Scott Pickett Group, Mitchelton Wines and MDC Building for sponsoring the day. And to the MOCFC for sponsoring the half time food and supporting the day.
Click here to access the images taken on the day.
Farewell Prue
It is with a heavy heart, we bid farewell to Prue O'Shannessy, at the end of this term. For more than 11 years, Prue has graced us with her presence, becoming an integral part of the College and Community Engagement Office. Her absence will be keenly felt, particularly amongst our alumni.
During her time with us, Prue forged deep connections with our esteemed old collegians and various associations, immersing herself in their stories about their time at the College. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Prue for her unwavering dedication and commitment to Marcellin College.
Prue orchestrated some of our most memorable and well-attended events. She has been the guiding force behind our bi-annual publication, Marcellin Life, meticulously curating its content for more than a decade. Her skilled interviews have captured the stories of our College, ranging from our inaugural cohort to those who have ventured on to extraordinary careers.
Prue, as we bid you farewell, please know that you will be sorely missed. The impact you have made on our community is immeasurable. We send our heartfelt wishes, filled with warmth and gratitude, as you embark on a well-deserved journey into semi-retirement and overseas adventures.
Please join me in thanking Prue for her contributions to the College and to wish the very best in all her future endeavors.
Eagle Business Lunch
Tickets are still available for the Eagles Business Lunch on Friday, 23 June. Hosted by the Marcellin Old Collegians Football Club (MOCFC) along with the Marcellin College Business & Community Network the event will feature AFL legend Nathan Buckley as guest speaker, along with comedian Dave O’Neill who will entertain guests throughout the afternoon.
Book your tickets online - www.trybooking.com/CJADE
Parents & Friends Group Wine Tour
Get ready for spring fun! The Parents & Friends Group are excited to announce and invite you to wine tour through the Yarra Valley! Mark your calendars and prepare to create unforgettable memories amongst breathtaking vineyards. More details and booking information will be announced in Term 3.
Year 7 2025 Enrolments
Enrolments for Year 7 2025 will close on 18 August this year. Siblings will need to complete an application for enrolment to avoid missing out on a place. To submit an application, you can do so via our online portal.
Grade 5 Taster Day
Last Friday, 9 June, we welcomed more than 400 primary school students and staff from several of our feeder schools to our Grade 5 Taster Morning. Students experienced high school life and participated in activities across different learning areas. They were thrilled to be doing “big school stuff” as they prepare to transition from primary school in the coming years. The new initiative was a great success and a great day had by all! We look forward to hosting another year level again next year.
Staff Profile
Hi there everyone, my name is Tracey Werner. I am a fairly new member of the Marcellin College community, having been here for six months now. My role is Human Resources Manager and I sit over in Marist House although you’ll often see me out and about. What I enjoy most about the College is the variety, no two days are the same (and the sausage rolls in the canteen).
When I’m not at the College, I play tennis, try to train my 5-month old puppy and travel as often and as far as possible.
Tracey Werner, Human Resources Manager
Student Profile
Hi, my name is Luca and I’m in Year 12. What I love most about Marcellin College is the opportunities to do the things that are of most interest to me. I have been given the opportunity to be the Design Technology Captain of 2023 and have gained much enjoyment and passion for learning in the Technology department throughout my time at the College. My role involves promoting the Design Technology learning area as a great place to learn hands on skills in woodwork, metalwork and many skills in digital design programs, maximising expertise of the future. Recently I worked with the Design Technology team to promote Design Week, which occurred during 18-23 May. This promotion encouraged all students of Marcellin College to design a badge template which feature the words Design and 2023. Students were able to be creative with their designs. The best badge designer is to win a canteen voucher and have their design featured on badges that will be physically made by the Design Technology department and distributed out to the school. The promotion of Design week assisted in advertising the Technology department’s involvement in design and development of a product.
When I’m not studying, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, having a laugh and finding time to relax in such a busy year. In the future I hope to become a qualified Architect as it is a career that involves my strong passion for design. As daunting as it is, I am working to my best ability in my final year at Marcellin College so that I can achieve my future goals and aspirations.
Luca C
Year 12, Champagnat House
Careers & Pathways News
It has been an exciting week at the College with Careers Week happening. A very big thank you to all our guest speakers and presenters who came and enlightened the students on the many career and study options that await them. Keep an eye out for the upcoming University Open Days; further details of these are available from the universities directly and through the Marcellin College Career’s website.
As we move into Term 3, for the most up-to-date careers information visit the Marcellin College Careers page as it is continually being updated, or book a careers appointment with Lara Ingram or Andrew Belli.
Lara Ingram & Andrew Belli, Career Counsellors
Sport Report
At the start of this year I took part in the Canoe Slalom and Wildwater Junior Team selections. The canoe slalom was over two races - Penrith Open and Australian Open. I had a pretty poor start to the selection season with the Penrith Open start which I placed 4th in the Under 18 then followed this up with the Australian Open coming 2nd in the Under 18. Then for wildwater finishing off the selections season for me which I finished 2nd. After these selections races it was announced that I made the Junior Australian Team for Wildwater and Canoe Slalom. I am now off for a nine week tour of Europe which I am going to six countries and will be representing Australia in eight different races. My main races that I will be competing in are the Wildwater Junior World Championships in Roudnice nad Labem, Czechia on 5-9 July.
Then will be competing in the canoe slalom ICF world ranking events in Prague Czech Republic on 29-30 July and Bratislava in Slovakia ICF world ranking Races on 5-6 August. Then I will finish the tour off with the Canoe slalom Junior world in Krakow Poland 15-20 August.
Riley G, Year 12 Mannes House
