Published on: 29 August 2024

  • NAIDOC Week
  • Athletics Carnival
  • Right to Disconnect
  • Father’s Day

This week, the School has been celebrating NAIDOC Week with a variety of activities taking place across the campus. On Tuesday evening, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students invited their friends, family, staff, and a special guest to attend our annual NAIDOC Week Art Exhibition. The event was held in the recently renovated Walters Boarding House, which serves as a home away from home for most students in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program.

Students created individual ceramic art pieces, including vessels and significant animals inspired by a story shared by Balladong, Wadjuk, Noongar elder Barry McGuire, father of Year 10 Bidjara, Ghangulu, Iman, Balladong, Wadjuk, and Yued student Jeeo McGuire. During the evening, Mr McGuire retold the story of the Djiti-Djiti, the Dingo, and the red-breasted Robin, providing a captivating introduction to the Exhibition. Click here to see images from the exhibition.

This morning, the students performed a traditional Aboriginal dance during the Senior School Assembly. Over the past few weeks, they have been practising under the guidance of Olman Walley, a friend of the School. NAIDOC Week is a true highlight for me personally. I am immensely proud of the significant contribution our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Program makes, not only to the lives of its students but also to the broader school community.

Last Friday’s Athletics Carnival was another event that brought our Senior School students together in a wonderful display of House spirit and support. The camaraderie and team spirit of the boys were evident throughout the day, showcasing the hard work and dedication of our staff, who ensured the event’s success despite challenging weather conditions. You can read more about the day here.

This week staff have been enjoying lunches generously provided by our Parents’ Association in recognition of their hard work and dedication. This thoughtful initiative acknowledges the valuable contributions of our staff and provides an opportunity for them to come together, connect, and share a meal.

With the introduction of the new Right to Disconnect laws, we have developed a policy to align with this important legislation. Our policy ensures that staff can disengage from work-related communications outside of their contracted hours, promoting a healthy work-life balance. We thank our parents for their ongoing support of our staff, recognising that a well-rested team is essential for providing the best educational environment for our students.

This Sunday is Father’s Day, a special occasion to honour and celebrate the unwavering love, guidance, and support that fathers provide. In the context of an all-boys’ school, this day holds even greater significance as it offers an opportunity to acknowledge the vital role fathers play in shaping the character and values of young men. Fathers serve as role models, mentors, and a source of strength, nurturing a sense of responsibility, resilience, and integrity in their sons. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we extend our heartfelt wishes to all the fathers in our community. May this day be filled with joy, gratitude, and cherished moments with loved ones.

Alan Jones
Principal