As we wrap up Week 10 of Term 3, there is so much to talk about surrounding the recent events at the College.
Founders’ Day
At St Patrick’s College we honour our history by learning about our Founders and the significant impact that each of them had during their time, and continue to have in 2023. Today we have celebrated Founders’ Day and in 2023 we are especially acknowledging Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. The work of Saint Mary MacKillop is continued today through the Mary MacKillop Today Organisation.
'Inspired by Australia’s first saint, we are working to transform lives with dignity for self determination. Guided by the Gospel, we stand with the poor and the marginalised so they can realise their potential and participate fully in the community. Through access to education and learning of practical life skills, we seek to transform lives.'
The importance of learning about the lives of our Founders and incorporating this learning into our own actions by supporting the needs of those around us, is an important message for us all. Following our College Value of Social Justice, we focus on where each of us can grow in awareness and respond to the needs of others in a spirit of service. As a community of faith, this is what we are called to do.
The feel around the College today has been fantastic with community participation and celebration of each other. The day has been focused particularly on raising awareness and funds for Timor-Leste in an effort to increase literacy and teacher training which helps support education in remote areas. We hope that the events of the day organised by our Director of Catholic Identity & Mission, Ms Kate Rockliffe, and her team transcend the values of Service and Social Justice into our community.
Student Executive 2024
Our Student Executive this year has been well supported by our House Captains and Community Captains and exceptionally led by our College Captains - Shannon Kelly and Xavier Duffy and by College Vice Captains - Ava Lockwood-Roden and Jaime Jones.
This week, after student self-nomination and voting completed by students and staff, we are pleased to announce our College Captains and Vice Captains for 2024.
2024 College Captains - Tumai Bennett and Kate Rigby
2024 Vice Captains - Owen Millar and Sarah Shepherd
Energy and Enthusiasm
As Term 3 concludes today and we reflect back over the past 10 weeks, I have been continually impressed by the enthusiasm and energy of our young people and staff, and by the many events and activities that have occurred around the College.
Some Term 3 highlights for me have been watching the many successes we have shared in sports. Congratulations to the Senior Girls 1sts Netball team, captained by Ava Lockwood-Roden and Matilda Allen, and supported by Coach Mrs Jacinta Simeoi and Team Manager, Miss Amy Soule, on the state final win against Guilford Young College. A further congratulations to our Senior Boys 1sts Soccer team who defeated Guilford Young 4-2 in the State final on Wednesday. Well done to Captain, Noah Curtis and Coach, Mr Derek Schipper.
I hope to see this energy and enthusiasm continue into Term 4 with a particular focus on attendance, learning and maintaining our College values and expectations on a daily basis.
Term 4, Day 1 Reminder
• Year 7 – 10 students - Student Free Day (with the exception of Maths Methods Foundation - Mr Cullen and Mr Smith’s Classes ONLY)
• Year 11/12 students are expected to attend on this day as classes will continue as normal.
I hope our students are able to enjoy some rest and relaxation over the next two weeks.
Enjoy the break!
Catholic Identity & Mission
Youth Group
Youth Group
Looking for something fun to do on a Thursday night? Come along to Youth Group for some music, sport, adventures, social work, good conversations, faith and just a fantastic time together. Run by Fr Chatty, sessions occur on the second and fourth Thursday evenings during term time.
Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Location:St Ailbe's Hall, 46 Margaret Street
Open for all young people from Years 5 to 12, come give it a try!
Young Adults Group
Run by Fr Chatty, Young Adults Group sessions run every second and fourth Sunday at 12:00pm, at the Pastoral Centre.
For further enquiries, please contact Fr Chatty on 0469 661 578
Year 10 Retreat 2023
By Mrs Belinda Chapman, Retreat & Reflection Day Coordinator
On Monday 18 September and Tuesday 19 September all Year 10 students received a day of Retreat at Myrtle Park. In their House groups, students engaged with the themes of Stewardship and Servant Leadership and participated in a variety of activities.
The tranquil environment at Myrtle Park and the beautiful weather provided a blessed space for students to take time to listen, breathe, rest, play, discover and be. Students were invited to respectfully be On Country by Andrew Mansell, who spoke about the country they were on from an Aboriginal perspective. He also encouraged students to connect in a life-giving and joyful way.
Servant Leadership was explored through the lens of St Patrick who, by following the model of Jesus, gave examples of leading by serving which are relatable in our lives today. Through games, stories and art, students were encouraged to notice that Servant Leaders:
Build community and foster an environment where everyone can contribute.
Are stewards - they use response, not mastery. Care, not control.
They are good listeners and have a commitment to growth.
Are immersed in the life and context of the people.
Use images, language and concepts that are already part of the culture of the people they are leading.
Launceston Parish Bulletin - Twenty– Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
To read the full Launceston Parish Bulletin, Click Here.
Nature Be In It - Holiday Program
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Learning & Achievement
Student Achievements
Zachary Milich and Campbell Targett have been chosen in the State U15 soccer team. They will be heading to Sydney in the next week to represent Tasmania.
Liam and Charlie Barker are representing Tasmania in Touch Football National Youth Championship in the Sunshine Coast. They will be competing from 27 to 30 September.
Jasper Lee has been selected to represent Football Tasmania in the Shepparton Cup in Victoria. The tournament will be held in October, from 21-22 October.
Congratulations and well done!
TASC End of Year Examinations - Reminders
By Mrs Lindsey Hills, Director of Curriculum - Senior School
End of year written examinations for TASC Level 3 and 4 subjects commence on Tuesday 7 November and conclude on Friday 17 November for Year 11/12 students. Links to the exam, performance, display and oral exam timetables can be found at the conclusion of this article.
Morning exams start at 9:00am (instructions from 8:45am) (NOTE: Students with the reasonable adjustment of extra time will start this prior to the examination).
Afternoon exams start at 1:30pm (instructions from 1:15pm).
Study Week (SWOTVAC) runs from 30 October to Friday 3 November. Students are permitted on campus to use the library for private or small group study and must sign in at Front Office Student Reception. Teachers may also be running tutoring sessions during their usual timetabled class time.
Student Reminders
Students must arrive 20 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of their examination.
Students must bring their ‘pink slip’ (TASC Notice of Enrolment) with them to every exam. If they forget this or misplace it, they must see Mrs Hills or Mrs Cullen at least 20 minutes prior to their exam so it can be re-issued for them. Students will be given their pink slips and exam instructions in Week 1 of Term 4.
Students are required to be fully equipped with pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, calculators, etc, which are to be placed in a plastic zip-lock bag.
Students are not permitted to bring mobile phones or smartwatches, paper, notes, food or drinks (with the exception of an unmarked bottle of water, such as a clear, plastic, pop top, disposable bottle without the label), into the examination. A room will be available for students to leave a bag/their belongings for the duration of their examination.
Reasonable Adjustments
Students who have been approved for TASC reasonable adjustments will discuss this further with Mrs Hills. Mrs Hills is meeting personally with each student to discuss the specifics of their exam schedule. Please note that the provision of extra time commences prior to the exam; students with this provision need to be at the College 45 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.Namely 8:15am for a morning exam and 12:45pm for an afternoon exam.
Illness/Emergency
If students are absent from their examination due to a significant illness, they are required to contact the College who will refer you to Mrs Hills to discuss this process. Students must visit their doctor/treating medical professional on the day of the examination (or no more than seven days prior) and they will need to complete the TASC Secondary External Assessment Medical Certificate. This is located in the TASC issued exam booklet or on the TASC website here. If students are unable to attend their exam for any other reason, such as an accident or emergency, please inform the College and consult Mrs Hills and the TASC website/examination booklet for further instructions.
By Mr Luc Norton-Smith, Head of Learning - Mathematics & Science (Years 7-8)
It's been a thrilling term in the world of Middle School science at St Patrick’s College, and we're delighted to share some of the remarkable experiences and learning achievements of our Year 7 and 8 students.
Year 7: Forces and States of Matter
Our Year 7 students have been delving into the captivating realms of forces and states of matter this term. With hands-on experiments, engaging demonstrations, and interactive lessons, they had the chance to explore the fundamental principles that govern our physical world. From understanding the forces that keep us grounded to unravelling the mysteries of solids, liquids, and gases, Year 7 scientists have been eagerly embracing the wonders of physics and chemistry.
Year 8: Elements, Compounds, Mixtures, and Chemical Change
Our Year 8 students have embarked on an enlightening journey into the world of elements, compounds, mixtures, and chemical change. Through thought-provoking experiments and insightful discussions, they've been uncovering the building blocks of matter and the fascinating transformations that occur when substances interact. It's been a transformative experience as they've gained a deeper understanding of the chemistry that surrounds us every day.
University Excursion: A Taste of Higher Learning
A highlight of this term was the University of Tasmania excursion, where 90 of our Year 8 students had the opportunity to step into the shoes of budding scientists. They participated in two enlightening sessions—one focusing on exercise science and another on laboratory medicine. This hands-on experience provided them with a glimpse into the exciting world of scientific research and the numerous career possibilities that lie ahead.
Science Week Extravaganza
Science Week was a resounding success this year, with a variety of activities that captivated the curiosity of our students. Here's a quick rundown of what took place:
Tuesday: Engineering and Design Showcase All students had the opportunity to explore inventions created by our Level 2 and 3 Engineering and Design students. These innovations included water filters for developing countries, eco-friendly homes, and cleverly designed flat-pack furniture. This event not only showcased incredible creativity but also gave students a chance to consider their interests for next year.
Wednesday: Virtual Reality Exploration Students embarked on a journey beyond the boundaries of our school with a virtual reality experience. They explored new worlds and gained hands-on experience with the technology of the present and future. It was an eye-opening experience that left everyone eager to explore more.
Thursday: CO2 Car Races and STEM Conversations The week concluded with an exhilarating series of CO2 car races, where students pitted different designs against each other. This event sparked discussions about the world of STEM and the exciting opportunities that await in Year 8 and beyond.
As we wrap up this term's adventures in science, we look forward to the continued growth and enthusiasm of our young scientists. We're immensely proud of their dedication and eagerness to explore the wonders of the world.
Japanese Speech Competition
By Mrs Lea Watson, Japanese Teacher
Recently, St Patrick’s College Year 8 students, Lucas Bakhash and Isabel McInerney, participated in the Tasmanian Junior High School Japanese speech contest. The competition was via online video submission and students were required to memorise and recite a written passage titled わたしのところ (My Place).
This contest gave students the opportunity to demonstrate their language skills and strive beyond the normal classroom requirements in the learning of Japanese. Students were judged on their ability to deliver their passage with accuracy and fluency. We are proud of Lucas and Isabel for the dedication they showed in their preparation for this event. Although they did not win a place in the competition, we are thrilled with their efforts and their willingness to participate in this challenging extra-curricular activity.
Uncovering the Archives - Year 9 Hands on History
As part of the Year 9 Hands on History class, students were asked to undertake and present research on an artefact of their choice from the College Archives, writing an article on their findings.
Unlocking the Past - Chemistry Bee’s 1983 Time Capsule
By Will Symons, Year 9 Student
The recent demolition of the S3 and S4 science classrooms has exposed a time capsule hidden in the roof of the adjoining classrooms for 40 years. The Co-Op Chemistry class, responsible for creating the package, consisted of students from Marian College and St Patrick’s College. This would be one of the last of its kind as the two single-gender schools would reform the following year to create one Co-Ed College in 1984. The time capsule recorded the names of the students as well as significant events in 1983. It also came along with instructions for the future discoverers of the capsule, including not to laugh at the claim that the 1983 Chemistry students would all ‘undoubtedly be Nobel Prize winners.’ Clearly, the class of 1983 was an aspirational bunch!
At the time of its creation, only 400 students and 26 staff worked at St Patrick’s College, with Brother Barrett being the Headmaster. In an interview with the 1983 College Captain, our very own, Mr Luke McCormack, described how the school looked compared to today
“If you can imagine the IT labs…that was the Library. There was just one row of classrooms, single level over where the ERC is now.”
This shows the incredible transformation that the College has gone through in the past 40 years. Mr McCormack also highlighted the changes that have taken place in the size of the student cohort.
“If there are 220 Year 12s now, there were 25 of us (Year 12s in 1983). We would’ve had 70 I think in Year 10…and maybe…35 in Year 11.”
Even though there were some downsides to having such a small number of students in terms of choices, there were some incredible positives. Mr McCormack described the relationship he had between his cohort and the staff, “Our Year 12 group was like a group of brothers.”
This rare insight into College life in 1983 truly shows how the College has developed into the large and inclusive school that it is today.
The SPC Boys doing their part in WWII
By William Colebrook-Smith and Isaac Woolley, Year 9 Students
During the Second World War, the St Patrick’s Cadet Unit was formed. Cadets would learn important skills to serve their country, such as military discipline, the rank structure, how to use and care for different weapons, and how to act out in the field. Exercises such as the one displayed in the image below gave the cadets valuable knowledge and experience if ever they were needed to be deployed to defend their country. During these activities students would learn to trust others and lead in the community. The broad sense of trust created in these hands-on experiences allowed for a stronger community to be formed, and that strength remains as an important part of the College today.
Members of the St Patrick’s College community have had a continuing involvement in defence, with many ex-collegians joining the Defence Forces after graduation. There are also many current students who are part of the ADF Cadets. At events such as Remembrance Day, members of the Cadets assist in proceedings, helping to show how important the School community is to those currently in the Cadets and the Defence Forces.
So, this Remembrance Day, spare a moment to reflect on those in the old Cadet Corps, and those in our school community who have served, or continue to serve in Australia’s Defence Forces. Remember the sense of community fostered during conflict and strife, and how we managed to stick together and survive during difficult times. The St Patrick's College community will celebrate Remembrance Day in a way fit for those who gave of themselves to serve as part of the St Patrick’s Cadet Corps.
Future Pathways
By Ms Jodie White, Future Pathways Coordinator
2024 Year 12 Students - Tasmania Police Career Development Program
Apply NOW for the Tasmania Police Career Development Program. The program will run in the April School Holidays between Sunday 14 April and Friday 19 April 2024, with limited spots available.
The application requirements include:
Resume with passport size photo.
Handwritten document outlining why you should be selected for the course and why you want to be a Police Officer.
Letter of recommendation from a teacher.
Collect an application pack from Future Pathways.
You must have your application into Future Pathways by no later than THURSDAY 26 OCTOBER 2023.
Year 12 UTAS SRP APPLICATIONS – APPLY NOW
Applications are still open for the School Recommendation Program until October 6. We strongly encourage Year 12 students to take advantage of this program.
Open Days
UTAS OPEN DAY - Launceston
UTAS Open Days are a great way to explore campuses and get a taste of life at the University of Tasmania. The events are packed with exciting hands-on activities, demonstrations, delicious food, live music and more. It’s also a great opportunity to hear all about the courses available, career pathways, accommodation, scholarships, social clubs, and sporting teams directly from their expert students and teaching staff.
UTAS will offer a free shuttle bus to drop attendees off at other specialised education centres such as the Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Newnham on the day.
Date: Sunday 1 October
Time: 10am-2pm
Location: Inveresk Campus
If you would like to attend an Open Day, please register your interest here.
Mainland University Applications Now Open For 2024
To apply to mainland universities, you need to apply in the state where you want to go to university – NOT in the state where you live.
For mainland university applications, you need to go through a University Admissions Centre for each state and make an account before you apply. There are one off application fees for each Central Admissions Centre which vary from each state.
The good news is that applying in more states can INCREASE your chances of getting a place, because you can nominate the maximum number of preferences in each state. This is particularly important if you’re considering a competitive course, like medicine or law.
Mainland School Recommendations/Early Offers – Apply directly to universities BUT you are still required to create an account at specific University Admissions Centres for each state. Check prerequisites, entry requirements and closing dates as they all differ.
Resources –The Good Universities Guide, The Good Careers Guide and Course Seeker
ADF – Launceston: A Night in the Army Reserve
Want to serve without the full-time commitment of joining the Australian Defence Force? Look to the Army Reserve.
You'll receive tax-free pay in part time roles that you can do one night a week, one weekend a month or a few weeks a year.
On October 10, join Defence Force Recruiting at the upcoming event, 'A Night in the Army Reserve', at Youngtown Barracks. You will have the opportunity to speak with current serving personnel about the roles on offer.
On the night you will have the chance to check out:
Infantry Section Weapon Systems
Night Vision Equipment
Combat Load Carriage Equipment
Military Vehicles - Protected Military Vehicle, G Wagon
It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited! Register your interest here: https://army.adfcareers.gov.au...
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Zambrero Mexican Restaurant - Team Members and Part Time Supervisors
Zambrero is looking for staff for their store at 222-224 York Street.
They are seeking enthusiastic team players to join their fun and friendly team as Team Members and Part Time Supervisors! If you have a let's-get-it-done attitude, people skills and thrive in a fast paced set-up, apply now!
Laser Electrical is seeking a casual administration assistant, for approximately 10 to 15 hours per week.
The position will consist of data entry and invoicing. Attention to detail is desirable and the ability to process large volumes of electronic correspondence.
Applicants must be available from Monday to Friday with some flexibility around start and finish times.
Previous experience preferred but not essential. In-house training will be provided to the successful applicant.
Please apply in writing with a cover letter and resume to: Laser Electrical, PO Box 8044, Trevallyn, TAS 7250.
Statewide - Storeperson
Midland Tractors 2024 Apprenticeships
Rotary Club of Deloraine Tertiary Scholarship
Learning Partners - School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Student & Community News
Bandanna Day - Support Mrs Liz Illingworth
Our Principal, Mrs Liz Illingworth, has decided to shave her head for Bandanna Day upon reaching her fundraising goal of $3000.
Any support is greatly appreciated, and we encourage our community to donate to this fantastic cause if they are able to. Donations can be made by using the link: https://www.bandannaday.org.au/s/278/16921
Term 4 Uniform Store Opening Dates
St Patrick’s College Uniform Store will close on Thursday, 28 September 2023 at 4:00pm for the school holidays. It will re-open on Monday, 16 October, at 9:00am 2023.
Extended Trading Hours
Monday 16 October 2023: 9.00 am - 3.00 pm
Normal Trading hours
The uniform store will return to normal trading hours from Tuesday, 17 October 2023.
Tuesday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
You are welcome to purchase from the online Uniform Store at your convenience. Your order will be filled when the Store is next open.
For online orders: Log onto www.midford.com.au and use the passphrase: SPC1873
Departing Students - Access to College Google Drive and Schoolbox accounts
Students leaving the College at the end of 2023 must be aware they will lose all files in their College Google Drive and Schoolbox accounts unless they back up or save their files to a personal storage device or personal cloud service. Your College Gmail account will also cease to exist in mid-January 2024.
Access to your Google Drive past this date may incur a fee to retrieve the contents.
Metro Tasmania’s Timetable Changes - Term 4
Please find attached additional important information about Metro Tasmania’s timetable changes for St Patrick’s College at the start of term 4.
Rapid Antigen Tests Available | Main Campus
With the COVID-19 risk recently raised to a moderate level, we encourage parents/guardians to collect RATs from our main campus Reception for your family. These will be available until our stock runs out. Stock will not be replenished.
Please note Croagh Patrick Reception does not have any stock.
Term 3 Holidays - Front Office and Accounts Opening Hours
The College's Front Office and Accounts will be closed from Monday 9 October until Friday 13 October inclusive.
The Front Office and Accounts will reopen on Monday 16 October at 8:00am.
Wellbeing & Leadership
Wellbeing Update
By Mrs Mallory Schipper, Student Wellness Coordinator
The Resilience Project - Vulnerability
Often vulnerability is seen as a weakness; however, you can use it as a strength. Opening up and talking about how you are feeling when you’re potentially not feeling okay takes courage, especially in the perfectionist society we live in today.
In the below video, Hugh Van Guylenberg shares how opening up and being vulnerable about the way he was feeling during the pandemic gave him the feeling of relief, humility and then curiosity to work through what he was going through. He encourages us to see vulnerability as a strength and model being vulnerable to your children.
St Patrick's College will be getting involved and supporting Mental Health Week by spreading the word around the importance of positive wellbeing and participating in a wellness week. Mental Health Week is part of a national mental health promotion campaign held in October each year, and incorporates World Mental Health Day, held globally on October 10. The purpose of this awareness week is to engage our students in activities that promote mental health and positive wellbeing.
Mental Health Week in Tasmania is from the 7– 15 October; however, as a College we will be engaging in a Wellness Week in Week 1 of Term 4.
The theme for Mental Health Week is ‘Awareness, Belonging, Connection’.
On Sunday, September 10, the Paul Coulson Memorial Gymkhana was held at the Westbury Showgrounds. This annual event is in memory of Paul Coulson, who lost his life in 1995, representing Australia at an international equestrian competition. Students from the St Patrick’s Equestrian team represented the College, riding well and competing strongly.
Jade Binns, Erin Kelly and Sophie Binns achieved 4th in the team of 3 event, while Jade Binns also won Champion Hack on Bonds Martini. In the afternoon Grace Ebbelaar and Erin Mackenzie joined the team competing in the showjumping where Grace won the 85cm, riding Spinglodged Mack. Overall it was a fun day with lots of laughs and teamwork.
Sports Report
By Mr Harri O'Toole, Sports Coordinator
Soccer
Senior Soccer – 1sts State Final vs GYC
After a nervous opening few minutes, the boys found their groove and played some great soccer. In a 15 minute period of dominance, two world-class strikes from Tito Brown put the team in a great position. However, a penalty to Guilford Young College and a subsequent red card meant GYC was back in the game. Gone was the controlled possession; instead, it was replaced with a strong determination to survive. Playing with one less player for one hour, the boys dug deep, and Arpan Rai managed to score two more in the second half. The final score of 4-2 meant SPC took out their first state title since 2017.
Netball
SATIS
On Monday, September 18, the stage was set for an exhilarating showdown as St Patrick's College (SPC) and Guilford Young College (GYC) faced off in the SATIS State Final. This encounter was highly anticipated, given their past encounters with GYC emerging victorious in previous years, while SPC clinched the title in 2020.
From the first quarter, it was evident that both teams were determined to claim the coveted title. SPC started strongly, taking an early 3-point lead (5:2), which extended to 8:5 before GYC mounted a comeback, ending the quarter with a one-point lead (10:9).
The second quarter saw SPC trailing by two points for most of the time, but Sophie Blackberry's last-second goal levelled the score at half-time.
In the third quarter, SPC displayed strong defence and managed to regain a 5-point lead, although GYC fought back valiantly, reducing the deficit to 28:26 by the quarter's end.
The final quarter commenced with SPC again asserting dominance, scoring four unanswered goals to make it 32:26 before GYC replied with their first goal of the quarter. Although GYC made a late push, cutting the lead to 3 points (38:35) with three minutes left, SPC maintained control and closed out the game with a final score of 41:36.
Congratulations to the SPC Girls for their outstanding performance throughout this short season, culminating in a spectacular victory.
Final Score: SPC 41, GYC 36
Players: Ava Lockwood-Roden (Captain), Matilda Allen (Captain), Paige O'Neill, Sophie Blackberry, Alice Jones, Asha Lowe, Hallie Schurring, Molly Green, Olivia Brown
Coached by: Mrs Jacinta Simeoni
Manager: Miss Amy Soule
2023 Hart High School Netball Championships
SPC experienced an action-packed week at the Silverdome as our 7/8 Boys and Girls, and our 9/10 Boys and Girls, enthusiastically participated in the prestigious 2023 High School Netball Championships.
The excitement kicked off on Tuesday with the 7/8 Girls division, where two determined SPC teams vied for championship glory in separate brackets.
SPC Green, under the expert guidance of Coach Matilda Allen, launched their campaign with a splendid start, clinching a 3:1 victory in their bracket. Their only setback came against the formidable LCS, where they narrowly lost 11:14.
Meanwhile, SPC Gold, led by the dedicated coaching duo of Lisa and Emma, maintained their flawless record, building on their previous NHSSA triumph over the weekend. They emerged as the top seed in their bracket, demonstrating their prowess on the court.
However, the tournament's format led to an unexpected twist, as the semi-final showdown pitted SPC against SPC, ensuring that at least one of our teams would advance to the State Final. In a gripping contest filled with high stakes, SPC Gold continued their winning streak, emerging victorious over SPC Green. This outcome meant that Green, faced Deloraine for the coveted number three spot, narrowly falling short with a final score of 9:10.
The pinnacle of the competition, the Grand Final, saw SPC Gold face off against LCS. In a dominant display of skill and teamwork, our talented Year 8 girls emerged triumphant with a commanding 20:8 victory, proudly earning the title of 7/8 Northern Regional Champions.
SPC Gold Players (pictured below): Georgia Carey, Aya Cottam, Molly Hawes, Ruby Jones, Lily Matthews, Milla Reid, Amber Richards, Amani Schipper, Sophie Seen and Grace Turner
Coached by: Lisa Jones & Emma Matthews
SPC Green (pictured below): Annabelle Cook, Neve Coull, Asher Curtis, Hazel Doyle, Ruby Flood, Poppy Gourlay, Amelia Lowe, Francesca Page, Alexandra Pietsch, Hayley Watts-Barker
Coached by: Matilda Allen
On Wednesday, it was the 7/8 Boys turn on the courts.
Having played a couple of training matches against the 7/8 Girls and coming up short, they certainly weren't lacking ability but had to get used to a different rule set than basketball.
They got through their bracket fairly unscathed, with the highlight being a 13:13 draw against Queechy, after being behind 5:9 at halftime.
After six games, they found themselves at the top of the ladder with a five-win and one-draw record, ensuring their entry to the Grand Final and their ticket to the State Finals.
Queechy was the second finalist, and this time, the boys didn't want to repeat the mistakes from their previous encounter, but Queechy had other plans and managed to pull away with a 7:4 halftime score. The boys composed themselves, and under the guidance of Kate Roach and Cooper Warren, they put on a show. Feeding the ball repeatedly to their successful GS and GA duo, Harry Blyth and Xavier Davie, they produced a beautiful comeback, securing the win with a 14:10 score.
SPC Gold: Harry Blyth, Thomas Davie, Xavier Davie, Max Dawkins, Miles Gale, Charlie Hilliard, Samuel Husband, Makkai Kettle, Fletcher Luttrell, Jai Pedder, Harry Shelton, Alex Smart
Coached by: Kate Roach and Cooper Warren
Thursday started our 9/10 Girls Tournament.
This was an all-out Year 10 lineup with a mix of experienced NHSSA and NSATIS players. The goal was clear from the start: winning the Grand final.
Game one was against another candidate for the finals, LCS. Our Girls started on the right foot, securing a 12:6 halftime lead that they turned into a 20:15 win.
They played with confidence against St Marys (25:5) and had a rest before the next challenge, Deloraine. A high-quality game was presented to the spectators from both schools, with Deloraine getting ahead before the break and SPC trailing by 2 points (5:7). Mistakes were identified quickly, and the calm, encouraging words from Paige O'Neill and Molly Green were clear "Let's communicate more and keep doing what we are doing, nothing to worry about". It certainly worked and showed in the passes. Calm, composed, with no rush, finding the right options and moving the ball into attack. Ally Wilson continued her excellent goal-shooting form and, with the help of Lilia Colgrave and Paige O'Neill, secured 13 goals against Deloraine.
The following two games were a bit easier, with a combined 55:14 score securing us a spot in the grand final, to meet Deloraine again.
It was a better start from the girls, and this time, we went into the break ahead with a 7:3 score. Deloraine came back slowly, reducing the margin, but it wasn't enough. In the end, the clock stopped at 11:9 for SPC.
SPC Gold: Lilia Colgrave, Charlotte Conway, Grace Foley, Molly Green, Paige Oneill, Ava Quinn, Chloe Richards, Lillian Shelton, Ally Wilson
Coached by: Mrs Alex Millwood
Last Friday, our 9/10 Boys wrapped up the week with an exhilarating showdown. We were fortunate enough to field three teams, following our in-house tournament.
All three teams hit the court and clinched victory in the first round. Pink and Green continued their winning streak into round 2, while Blue faced a formidable opponent in Brooks High School, ultimately falling short with a score of 8:15.
However, Blue made a strong comeback, securing a 10:8 win against Riverside. Meanwhile, Pink and Green triumphed in their third consecutive match.
With three teams and two pools in play, it was inevitable that we would witness an SPC vs SPC face-off. This awaited us in Round 4 when Pink went head-to-head with Blue.
Team Pink seemed to have cracked the code against Team Blue, securing an 11:2 lead and ultimately winning 21:5. Oliver Viney from Team Pink was instrumental, scoring 18 out of the 21 goals.
Round 5 presented a formidable challenge for Team Pink as they faced Brooks with their towering attackers. Brooks started strongly with a 7:2 lead at the break and ultimately won 12:9, securing the number 1 spot in the pool. Team Green maintained their winning streak, triumphing 13:6 against Riverside. Blue rebounded from their earlier loss, concluding the group stage with a 3:2 record.
With Pink at number 2 in their pool and Green at number 1, it meant another SPC showdown in the semi-finals, with at least one team heading to the State Finals.
The semi-final was a thrilling rematch of the in-house competition, which Pink had won by just one point in the final second. It was a classic Year 10 (Pink) versus Year 9 (Green) match, featuring lob passes versus bounce passes—a clash of different playing styles. The game started closely, with the perceived underdogs (Year 9) leading 6:4 at halftime. They played with composure and maintained their lead in the second half, securing victory with a final score of 11:6.
In the other semi-final, Riverside achieved the unexpected by defeating Brooks HS with a score of 14:9.
The stage was set for the Grand Final, a rematch of the group stage that SPC Green had won 13:6 (9:3 at halftime). Once again facing a taller team, they sought to replicate the passes that had secured them a victory previously. However, fatigue began to set in after a long day of intense competition. Despite their efforts, Riverside took a 6:3 lead and maintained it until the final score reached 15:7. Nevertheless, it was a day filled with excitement, teamwork, adversity, and resilience for all involved.
SPC Green: Ryan Blackberry, Brad Chenery, Emmett Gale, Harry Gunn, Noah Hedger, Alexander Ling, Oscar Marsden, Max Matthews, Zachary Milich
SPC Blue: Jackson Beard, Leigh Coker, Dylan Dornauf, Cooper Kedey, Alexander Millwood, Sam Percival, Isaac Pietsch, Tayte Romari, Campbell Waterhouse
Coached by: Isabella Berry & Chloe Cunningham
Thank you to all the students who participated, our umpires, scorers and staff. Also, to the parents who came to watch and support your child play in these events!
Term 3 Summary
As the final update for the term, here are some key accomplishments.
Members of the St Patrick’s College community have had a continuing involvement in defence, with many ex-collegians joining the Defence Forces after graduation. There are also many current students who are part of the ADF Cadets. At events such as Remembrance Day, members of the Cadets assist in proceedings, helping to show how important the School community is to those currently in the Cadets and the Defence Forces.
