In this Issue
From the Principal
The Newhaven College Vision Statement is as follows:
“Inspire young people with knowledge, empathy and curiosity to engage in their world with confidence and a sense of purpose.”
Our vision statement is intended to articulate our core purpose as a school, but also provide an aspiration that we strive to achieve each day. As a school, we regularly refer to our Vision in our decision making.
As stated, the Vision aims for each student to engage in “their world”. The words “their world” are included intentionally. We want our students to appreciate, understand and embrace the world they live in. Post school, we want our young people to have the confidence and skills to go out into the world and make a positive difference – for many that will be through relocating for University or employment.
As a school, it is important we continue to provide regular exposure to places and cultures beyond our shores. We are currently hosting 14 students and two staff from Ibaraki Christian Junior School in Japan. The students are staying with generous members of our school community and whilst here, attend classes and interact with our students. This is the 21st year Newhaven has hosted Ibaraki students, and it is a partnership that has had a lasting legacy. Our students love getting to know the visitors and understanding more about Japanese culture first hand. In turn, 15 Newhaven students will be travelling to Japan in September for their exchange. This is one way our school opens up the world to our students. See the College News section of this newsletter for a full report.
In addition to this, during the last semester break, 18 Year 10 students attended a World Challenge service experience in Borneo, accompanied by teachers Fiona Smart and David Prideaux. This trip provided a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience the culture of a developing region. Students were not there just as tourists, but worked hard in conservation, teaching and engaging in the community. These overseas service opportunities have a lasting impact on the students who participate.
As well as these firsthand global experiences, this year our school charity is the Bali Children’s Foundation. Student leaders have chosen two schools in the poorest areas of Bali to support. In addition to raising funds for much needed resources, our Grade 5s and 6s are participating in a pen pal programme with students in these schools. This further expands our students' connection with the world.
We know engaging in their world only further promotes each of our students' curiosity and love of learning. As a school, we will continue to provide opportunities for students to broaden their horizons in and out of the classroom.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
College News
Borneo World Challenge
Over the school holidays, an intrepid group of Newhaven College students from Year 10 volunteered their time by engaging in conservation work in the Kinabatangan River area of Borneo. The group was accompanied by teachers, Fiona Smart and Dave Prideaux. The College partnered with World Challenge, an organisation that provides experiences for participants while making a positive impact in international communities. World Challenge trips are student led, where student teams are put in charge of the budget, decide where to eat, organise daily activities, run daily meetings and make sure everyone is safe and accounted for.
The trip began with the first five days in Kota Kinabalu, where the students became familiar with the city and its landmarks, went stand-up paddleboarding, and spent a day snorkelling, experiencing coral reefs, sea turtles and even a shark.
The project work was to help the local area of the Kinabatangan River to plant grasses and trees and clean up the river. The students worked extremely hard in the heat and humidity to make a real difference.
The trip ended with a visit to the Orangutan and Sun Bear Conservation areas, which was an incredible experience. With the money raised, they have sponsored Agop, an orphaned orangutan and Fulong, a sun bear, for 3 years.
Fiona Smart
Borneo World Challenge Accompanying Teacher
The 21st Sister School Visit from Japan
We are approaching the end of a wonderful two-week visit from our sister school, Ibaraki Christian Junior High School. Fourteen Year 9 students, accompanied by Ms Saito and Mr Youngblood, arrived on Sunday 27 July and have been warmly welcomed by our students, staff and families.
During their time with us, the students have attended classes, made new friends, and explored local attractions. It has been a pleasure to see how naturally they connected with our students and embraced daily life at Newhaven College. Some students who had visited Ibaraki in previous years were also able to reunite with the visitors, strengthening friendships between the two schools.
On their final day at school, the group participated in the Year 8 Medieval Day, providing a fun and memorable conclusion to their visit. With the visit soon coming to a close, we are sure saying goodbye will be difficult for many.
In September, 15 of our own students from Years 10 and 11 will travel to Japan to visit the Ibaraki school as part of the return exchange.
We sincerely thank all host families for their generosity, kindness, and care throughout the visit. We extend our special thanks to the Townsend family for their ongoing support over many years in providing accommodation for the Ibaraki teachers. We also appreciate the backup families who kindly offered their support and were ready to help during the visit.
One host family reflection, the Helps family, says it all, " Our host student, Karen has been an absolute joy to have in our home and she will be greatly missed when she leaves on Friday. Our children have formed strong friendships and had so much fun exchanging stories about each other's homes and experiences. It is such a beautiful opportunity to learn about another culture and to be able to share ours as well. We all wish it went a little longer as we will be very sad to say goodbye but so grateful to have been a part of this program. We will 100% continue to be a part of this program while our children are at Newhaven College and would absolutely recommend it to anyone."
The host families and their students came together at Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling and The Westernport Hotel for social events. Forging strong connections between everyone involved.
Thank you to our Host Families
The Andrianopoulos family, Baud family, Bennett family, Bland family, Bowring family, Bowtell family, Confoy family, Eishold and Hewett family, Helps & Johns family, Jungwirth and Thompson family, Kossenna family, Thom family, Thompson family, and Underwood family. And special thanks to our back up families, the Anastasi family and Whitton family.
Mitsuko Horiguchi
Japanese Exchange Program Coordinator
Parents and Friends Association Report
One Day to Go – Colour Explosion Run!
We’re counting down, with just one more sleep until our Colour Explosion Run tomorrow, Friday 8 August!
A friendly reminder that all Junior and Middle School students will need a ticket to participate. Tickets are available via TryBooking.
Each ticket includes:
- Entry to the Colour Run
- A pair of sunglasses
- A refreshing icy pole to cool off afterwards!
This year, we’re running a raffle with five fantastic prizes up for grabs:
- Family Pass to Amaze’N Things (generously donated by Amaze’N Things)
- Family Pass to Maru Koala Park & Mini Golf (2 adults + 2 children – donated by Maru Koala and Mini Golf)
- $100 EB Games Voucher
- $50 Isola Gelato Voucher (donated by Isola)
- $50 Smiggle Voucher (donated by Bass Coast Boat and Caravan Storage)
School Fete
A quick note to let our families know that the school fete will now run every two years. We’re excited to confirm the next one is planned for late next year -stay tuned for more updates!
Year 12 Trivia Night – Save the Date!
The PFA is proud to be supporting our Year 12 students as they host their Trivia Night on Friday 29 August.
Come along, test your knowledge, and enjoy a local beverage or two at the PFA bar or purchase a ticket for the raffle while supporting our senior students and their charity fundraising for Bali Children Foundation. It promises to be a great night!
Angel Chambers
President | Parents and Friends Association
Junior School
Welcome to Term 3
We have had a fantastic start to Term 3, with energy and excitement flowing throughout the Junior School. As always, it is a busy and productive term filled with special events, learning opportunities and celebrations of student success. Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to ensure every child feels connected, confident and inspired in their learning.
Celebrating Home – School Partnerships
This week we held our Parent Teacher Interviews. We would like to thank our dedicated teachers for their continued efforts, and our families for their commitment to their children's education. We understand that children are only at school for part of the day. Families play a vital role in their development, which is why we place a strong emphasis on the partnership between home and school.
Parent Teacher Interviews are one example of how we work together. Another is through home learning, including our Reading Folders and Math’s Fluency Programs such as NumBots and Times Tables Rock Stars. These programs allow families to see what students are learning, while helping children build their reading and number fluency skills.
Last term, Mr. Tony Corr and I had the pleasure of visiting each classroom to present certificates for outstanding home learning habits. It was a special moment when we were able to award a certificate to every student in two classes. Congratulations to the students and families in Prep L and Prep F for this exceptional achievement.
With Thanks to Mr. Tony Corr on Principal’s Day
Last Friday was Principal’s Day, a special opportunity to recognise the outstanding work that principals do, not only here at Newhaven College but across Australia. To mark the occasion, Mr. Corr joined our Junior School Assembly and responded to questions from our students. Before that, students were invited to share their own ideas about what a principal actually does.
Mr. Corr, who is known for his strong work ethic and communication skills, kindly answered a few fun and thoughtful questions, including:
- What do you actually do as Principal of Newhaven College?
- What did you want to be when you were younger?
- Did you ever get sent to the Principal’s office?
- What is your favourite thing about being Principal of Newhaven College?
In his responses, Mr. Corr reflected on the influence of his own father, who was also a principal. He shared that yes, he had been sent to the principal’s office as a student, and that becoming a principal was something he had worked toward. When asked about his favourite part of the role, he said it was the strong sense of community at Newhaven College and, most importantly, the students.
Our students presented Mr. Corr with a handmade card and a small gift as a token of appreciation. On behalf of our entire school community, we thank Mr Tony Corr for his dedication, passion and strong leadership. We are grateful for the way he supports our students, staff, families and the wider Newhaven College community each day.
Welcoming the Ecumenical Schools Association Heads of Junior School
Next Monday, we are excited to welcome around 24 Heads of Junior School from across Victoria to Newhaven College as part of the Ecumenical Schools Association network retreat. We are proud to be hosting this professional learning event and look forward to showcasing the outstanding teaching, learning and strong sense of community that make Newhaven College and our Junior School such a special place.
NAPLAN Results
Year 3 families will have now received their child’s NAPLAN results. These provide a useful snapshot of progress in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. NAPLAN helps us assess how students are progressing against national benchmarks. While these results are valuable, it is our classroom teachers who provide the most comprehensive picture of student growth through their daily observation and ongoing assessment.
The Importance of Attendance
Regular attendance and punctuality are essential for student success. In Semester 1, the Junior School’s average attendance rate was 88 percent, highlighting the importance of being at school every day. Attendance supports learning, friendships, routines and future opportunities. Attendance data was shared with families at the beginning of this term to support reflection. We encourage all families to aim for the highest possible attendance in Semester 2. If your child is facing any challenges that affect their attendance, please do not hesitate to reach out for support.
Prep – 100 Days of School
The year is flying by, and it is already time to celebrate 100 days of Prep. It feels like just yesterday our youngest learners began their journey at Newhaven College.
On Wednesday 13 August, Prep students are invited to dress with 100 items attached to their clothing. This could be anything from cotton balls to stickers or paper clips. The celebration will include a parade at 9.10 am around the Junior School classrooms. Families of Prep students are warmly invited to attend and enjoy this special milestone with us.
Book Week Parade
Book Week will take place in Week 5, with our Junior School Book Parade scheduled for Thursday 21 August at 9.30 am in the Collect. Families are welcome to attend and can purchase a coffee on this day from an onsite coffee cart while waiting for the parade to begin. We look forward to seeing our students dressed as their favourite book characters as we celebrate the joy of reading and storytelling together.
Colour Explosion Run – Friday 8 August
Cost: $10 per student (available via TryBooking). The cost includes entry, a pair of colourful sunglasses and an icy pole.
Dress: Students must wear all black so the colour powder stands out. A change of clothes is required for students catching the bus home. Students in school uniform will not be permitted to participate.
Prizes: There will be best-dressed awards and raffle prizes including:
- Family passes to Amaze N Things and Maru Koala Park
- $100 EB Games voucher
- $50 Isola Gelato voucher
- $50 Smiggle voucher
Parents are welcome to come and cheer on the students or volunteer to throw colour powder. All funds raised will go towards the development of our playground. We look forward to a colourful, fun-filled day for our school community.
Thank you for your continued support throughout the term. We look forward to sharing more learning moments and exciting events with you in the weeks ahead.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Wine Down at Phillip Island Winery – A Great Evening for Prep Mums
Last Friday evening, around 25 of our fabulous Prep mums enjoyed a well-deserved night out at Wine Down — the cosy winter event held at Phillip Island Winery. With mulled wine in hand, a crackling fireplace, and great tunes setting the vibe, it was the perfect setting for a relaxed and fun social catch up.
Mrs Lynch and a few other faculty members joined us, making the evening even more special. For many, it was the first time connecting outside of school — with no kids in tow!
It was a lovely night of laughter, connection, and new friendships. The first of many more catch ups to come.
Thank you to everyone who attended — we can’t wait to do it again soon!
Kyoko Blondell
Prep Mum
Junior School Disco!
On the last day of semester 1, our Junior School students put on their flashiest disco gear and headed over to the pavilion to break some moves and have some fun!A group of enthusiastic Year 9 students managed the event, along with our Junior School staff, making it one of the best days of school so far for the Junior School! Mr T joined in the fun too, providing an array of glowing items to add to the disco inspired atmosphere.
Thank you to all who came along and assisted on the day.
Merit Awards
Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly.
Middle School
A Calm and Positive Start to Term 3
We’ve had a calm and positive start to Term 3, and it’s been heartening to witness the growth in our students both physically and in their maturity as they return for the second semester. Across the Middle School, there is a strong sense of purpose, optimism, and readiness for the term ahead.
At our assembly, I reminded students that Term 3 is often referred to as the premiership term. This idea, borrowed from the world of sport, particularly AFL, reflects the belief that the third quarter of a game is critical. It’s the moment when teams lift their intensity, make crucial adjustments, and position themselves for a strong finish. The same applies to school life. Whether the year started well or not as planned, one strong term can make all the difference.
- One term of consistent effort can lift your academic performance.
- One term of kindness can transform your friendships.
- One term of seeking help can put you back on track.
What matters most is not how you start, but how you respond.
As part of our ongoing focus to strengthen partnerships with families and community and build an inclusive, responsive, and dynamic Middle School culture, I want to sincerely thank our Middle School community for warmly welcoming the visiting Ibaraki students and their teachers, Ms Saito and Mr Youngblood. Their presence has enriched our learning environment, bringing cultural exchange, connection, and joy. A huge thank you to the host students and their families. Ms Horiguchi's report can be found in the College News section of this newsletter, along with lots of photos.
The Collect continues to be a hive of activity during break times. It’s encouraging to see students making the most of these moments - playing cards, down ball, pickleball, talking about passions and interests, and sharing time around the piano. These social interactions matter deeply. They foster a strong sense of community and reflect the importance of “finding your people” in Middle School, particularly as students navigate the complexities of adolescence.
Here’s to a productive, connected, and fulfilling Term 3. Let’s make it a premiership one.
Wishing Year 8 Students All the Best on Camp
Next week, our Year 8 students will head off to Kinglake Forest Adventure Camp for what promises to be an exciting, challenging, and memorable experience.
Camp is a wonderful opportunity for teenagers to step outside their comfort zone, try new activities, and develop important life skills such as resilience, teamwork, independence, and leadership. Being away from home encourages students to connect with their peers in new ways and grow in confidence as they face challenges in a safe and supportive environment.
We wish all our Year 8 students and staff an enjoyable and rewarding time at Kinglake. We look forward to hearing all about the adventures and memories they bring back!
Calendar Dates
Friday 8 August – Colour Explosion Run - Period 3
Tuesday 12 August – Year 7 House Netball - Period 4
Tuesday 19 August – Whole School Assembly - 9:10am School Gymnasium
Thursday 21 August – Middle School Book Week Parade at The Collect - 9:10am – 9:30am
Ralph Arceo
Head of Middle School
Year 8 Medieval Day
Medieval Day was a highly engaging and educational experience for the Year 8 cohort, designed to deepen their understanding of the Medieval period through interactive, hands-on learning. Delivered by the team from Medieval Education and Entertainment, the day was filled with exciting activities that brought history to life in a dynamic and memorable way.
Students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in medieval life by exploring a wide range of themes including the feudal system, medieval warfare, daily life, medicine, and entertainment. They examined authentic replica weapons and armour, tried on chainmail, and took part in practical workshops that demonstrated the skills and challenges of medieval living.
A highlight of the day was the thrilling chance for students to battle a real knight in safe, supervised combat sessions—an experience that proved both educational and exhilarating. Through these interactive demonstrations, students gained a deeper appreciation for the discipline, strategy, and strength required of medieval warriors.
Storytelling, role-play, and historical reenactments helped reinforce classroom learning in a fun and accessible way. Medieval Day not only solidified key concepts from the curriculum but also sparked a genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for history, making it a standout event in the school year.
Steve Scott
Middle School Teacher
Senior School
Report on Ryder Evans: Road Racing Achievements and Aspirations
Year 12 Student’s Journey in Competitive Cycling
Ryder Evans, currently a Year 12 student, has established himself as a dedicated and ambitious road cyclist. With a passion ignited at a young age, Ryder has committed six years to road riding and has spent the past five years actively racing. His steady progress in the sport is marked by national and international experiences, significant competitive results, and a clear set of future goals that reach as far as the Olympic Games.
Road Racing Experience and Development
Ryder began road riding six years ago, transitioning into competitive racing one year later. Over the last five years, he has honed his racing skills and tactical acumen, participating in local, state, and national events. His first foray into national-level competition came two years ago, providing invaluable exposure to the rigors and standards of elite Australian cycling.
International Training and Competition
In 2024 and 2025, Ryder seized the opportunity to broaden his horizons by spending the school holidays in Europe. This formative experience included intensive training with a European road racing coach and participating in a week-long training camp set in the picturesque yet challenging landscapes of Italy. The camp featured a demanding 138km course that ascended a total elevation of 5,500 meters—a true test of both endurance and climbing prowess.
Ryder also competed in two open-age 50km road races in the Cotswolds, UK. Despite racing against older and more seasoned competitors, he achieved remarkable results, finishing 2nd and 4th in these events. These performances underscore his ability to adapt quickly to international racing environments and to hold his own against strong opposition.
Racing for Giant Hampton
Ryder is a proud member of the Giant Hampton cycling team, a position that affords him access to top-tier equipment at wholesale prices. This partnership not only provides Ryder with the technical support necessary to compete at a high level but also embeds him in a community of motivated and skilled riders.
State-Level Competitions and Ambitions
On the domestic front, Ryder has contested the State Titles Road Racing event at the Phillip Island (PI) Racetrack, pitting his talents against the best in Victoria. His competitive drive is matched by his long-term ambition to race semi-professionally across different continents and, ultimately, to secure a place on a professional cycling team. The pinnacle of his aspirations is clear: to represent Australia at the Olympics in Brisbane in 2032.
Challenges and Resilience
Ryder’s journey has not been without setbacks. In December 2024, he suffered a serious accident during a national-level race in wet conditions. The fall resulted in a dislocated elbow and a damaged hip, necessitating surgery and 30 stitches in his hip and left elbow. This injury forced Ryder out of racing for two weeks—a period that tested his mental resilience and temporarily affected his confidence and competitiveness. Nevertheless, Ryder has demonstrated remarkable determination in overcoming these challenges, using the experience as motivation to return stronger both physically and mentally.
Future Plans
Ryder’s commitment to cycling is so profound that he is prepared to defer university if his pursuits in the sport continue to progress. His vision for the future is both ambitious and inspiring: to race semi-professionally around the world, secure a position on a professional cycling team, and strive for Olympic success on home soil in Brisbane.
With his track record of dedication, resilience, and impressive results, Ryder Evans stands out as a young cyclist with significant potential. His journey so far is a testament to his passion for the sport and his willingness to embrace both the triumphs and trials that come with high-level competition. As he continues to train, compete, and chase his goals, Ryder’s story promises to inspire fellow students, athletes, and the broader cycling community alike.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Year 9’s Commando Games
What better way to wrap up Term 2 than by diving headfirst into mud, mayhem and muscle? Our fearless Year 9s took on the Commando Games - a wild adventure packed with obstacle challenges that tested their strength, teamwork and determination.
Soaked, muddy, and totally unstoppable, they tackled each twist and turn with fierce determination and plenty of laughs. An unforgettable day of cold toes, muddy clothes and unstoppable spirit!
Year 12 Formal
Last Saturday, our Year 12 students took a well-deserved break from their studies, joining House mentors and College Leadership for a night of celebration and connection. Dressed to impress, everyone looked stunning in their formal wear.
The evening provided a chance to relax, have fun and enjoy time together before the final push toward exams and the end of their school journey.
Thank you to Sharon Paterson for organising the event, and to all the leadership team who attended.
Youth Parliament
Participating in Youth Parliament Victoria this year was an insightful experience that provided us with the opportunity to engage with a rich tapestry of young people, each with their own insights and perspectives. In our team consisting of Gabe Di Falco, Nissa Campbell Walker, Jasmine Ruffin, Matilda Feehan, Tilly Stecher and myself, Miranda Zalunardo, we worked tirelessly from the start of the year to develop and advocate for our Bill, The Establishment of Community Gardens Initiatives 2025.
Our Bill streamlines the process for establishing and maintaining community gardens across Victoria by simplifying permits and removing barriers. It provides essential resources and expert guidance to support sustainable gardening practices, integrates community gardening into the primary school curriculum to educate future generations, and prioritises environmental protection, including native wildlife and cultural heritage preservation. The Bill also promotes inclusivity by ensuring accessibility and offering opportunities for vulnerable groups to engage through community service.
We are proud to state that our Bill was passed in the chamber.
We were all so excited to see the opening ceremony for Youth Parliament 2025 featured on 9News. It was a real thrill to see all the teams and their ideas being showcased for the wider community.
A special congratulations goes to Matilda Feehan for receiving the Chamber Spirit Award for enthusiastically participating and creating remarkable contributions throughout the entire week. For us, one of our highlights was visiting Government House, yet meeting Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Elaine Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, made it even more special.
We thank Newhaven College for the support and encouragement of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, which we will always cherish.
Jordan Crugnale MP was of great assistance to the team, and congratulated us in Parliament this week. Watch her statement.
Miranda Zalunardo
on behalf of the Youth Parliament Team
Year 10 Holocaust Museum Visit
On Wednesday 30 July, our Year 10 students went on an excursion to the Holocaust Museum. We were led in small groups through the museum, with a focus on the phrase ‘everyone had a name’. Looking at photos of people who had lost their lives due to the atrocities of the holocaust was a confronting experience, and one that I will never forget. After our tours, we were led into a room where we closely analysed and handled artefacts. Shortly after, all groups came together to hear from and interview Holocaust survivor, John Lamovie. As the last generation to ever speak to a holocaust survivor, it was an extremely personal and special experience. This immersive day allowed us all to gain a newfound understanding of what happened during the Holocaust.
Mairaed Carlin
Year 10 Teacher
Careers
Please be sure to check out this month's Career Newsletter.
There are many opportunities for higher education information sessions and upcoming Open Day information.
Anthea Bennett
Head of Careers
Scholarships
Bursary Scholarships
This Scholarship provides an opportunity for students wishing to enrol at Newhaven College in 2026.
Thanks to the generosity of members of the school community, Newhaven College has a limited number of bursary places for students entering Newhaven College in 2026. If you, a family member or someone you know would like to join us in 2026, but may not have the means to do so, this opportunity may be for you.
Expressions of Interest for these bursaries are open.
For enquiries or to book in for the next Newhaven College tour, please contact our Admissions Team on 5956 7505 or admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
Visual & Performing Arts
Spring Concert - Monday 8 September
The students and staff in the Music Department are off to a flying start this semester. Our students are busy preparing for the Spring Concert, which will be held this year at the Wonthaggi Union Theatre on Monday 8 September. The concert will feature performances from students in Years 3 to 12 and will be hosted by our wonderful Music Captains: Cecily, Archie, and Charlee. The Spring Concert is open to the public and is sure to be well attended – tickets will go on sale soon, so make sure you get your tickets early!
Music+ Ensembles and Choirs
A big shout-out to all the students involved in our Music+ ensembles and choirs. The typical ensemble has already clocked over 20 hours of rehearsal this year! Some students are even in three ensembles—now that’s true dedication and commitment!
Music Camp
Before the Spring Concert, more than 60 students will attend our Annual Music Camp, which will be held for the first time at Urban Camp in Melbourne. Students and staff are especially excited to attend the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical In the Heights at the Comedy Theatre as part of the camp experience. Of course, a highlight will be the fierce competition of the Music Captains’ Trivia Night.
Victorian School Music Festival
This week, our Senior Vocal Ensemble and Middle School Choir combined to travel to Box Hill to perform in the Victorian School Music Festival (VSMF) under the Open Senior Choir section. The students presented two pieces: Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush and Follow My Own Dream by Australian composer Paul Jarman. Paul visited the College in 2021 to run workshops with our Junior School and Middle School choirs. The adjudicators provided valuable feedback and awarded the choir a Silver Award.
Well done to all involved—and a special thanks to Kerryn Lockhart, Elly Poletti and Carmal Slater for their outstanding commitment to our singers. We also thank parent Sarah Hardy for taking photos at the VSMF performance.
Matthew Goss
Director of Music
Middle School House Music Competition
To finish Term 2, Middle School came together for the annual House Music Competition. Everyone got into the spirit of the event, with lots of music, singing, dancing, costumes and a few acrobatics tossed in!
Congratulations to all the students who took part. It was so much fun!
Yuri shines at St. John's
Congratulations to Yuri in 2S for performing Schumann's 'The Two Grenadiers' on solo violin to raise funds for the Bass Coast Winter Shelter at St. John's Uniting Church, Cowes, as part of the church's 50th anniversary celebrations over the recent school break. The concert was a great success with a number of Newhaven staff involved too, including Daniel Seale and Travis Thompson who performed a duet, and Ruth Whitton and Rebecca Scully who formed a quintet with musicians from Orchestra Victoria and Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Andre Whitton
School Chaplain
Rebecca Scully to join MYO
Congratulations to our very own Rebecca Scully, who will be joining the Melbourne Youth Orchestras over the upcoming summer.
Rebecca will be conducting the Scully String Orchestra at the 2026 MYO Summer School.
Watch Rebecca's promo video.
Junior School Art
This year our Prep to Year 4s have been experimenting with a variety of mediums, creating portraits. For anyone walking along the corridor in Junior School, you can't help but be knocked away with the bright colours and exceptional artwork on display.
Congratulations to all of our Junior School students. Here are just a few of the work on display.
Sport
Hockey Victoria Visit
Last week, students in Years 2– 4 were treated to an exciting incursion thanks to the Hockey Victoria Roadshow. Led by the energetic and engaging Coach Louis, the sessions introduced students to the fundamentals of hockey in a fun, hands-on way.
From learning how to hold a stick correctly to practicing basic dribbling and passing skills, the students had a fantastic time getting active and trying something new. Louis did a wonderful job connecting with the children and making the sessions both educational and enjoyable.
A huge thank you to Hockey Victoria for bringing the game to Newhaven College, and to mum Jen Fallu who helped out with the Year 3 session.
Jaclyn Clarke
Junior School PE and Sports Teacher
WBSLSC – Newhaven College Bronze Medallion
This elective has run for two years now, beginning in 2024.
HPE Teacher and Head of Surfing, Ben Clark has had a decade-long involvement in Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club (WBSLSC) and Surf Lifesaving, and is a Patrol Captain for the Watermen volunteer Surf Rescue Patrol Team and works as a paid Lifeguard for the Bass Coast Lifeguard team during the summer.
In light of this, Ben saw an opportunity to utilise these skills and experience and combine this with his passion for the ocean in a new elective in 2024. “Surf Safety and Recreation”, striking up a partnership with the WBSLSC.
Through weekly practical sessions covering water rescues, swimming skills and ocean diagnostics, students build their awareness, hazard assessment and risk mitigation as well as hone their physical capacity in the water. In class, they cover all of the theoretical content, including first aid and patrol operations. This is a hands on elective that allows students to learn by doing and feeling.
What is great about having this elective over a full semester rather than the traditional one week Bronze Camp is they have the time and the ability to roam outside the scope of the traditional Bronze Medallion Handbook.
This year, an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) experience was introduced, where students spend a day in a boat with a qualified instructor who takes them through the ins and outs of performing rescues in an IRB and finish the day with an experience in the surf at Woolamai Beach. They also touch on some of the basic search and rescue skills that students might see if they take on additional LSV awards.
Alongside their Bronze Medallion Award, this elective sees students complete a Surfing Australia Level 2 Surf Judging accreditation. The theoretical component of this is completed in class and for those students interested then go on to complete 20 hours of supervised surf judging with the Phillip Island Boardriders Club to earn their full certification. These students then act as judges at our school House Surfing competition and the SEISA (Inter-school) Surfing Competition, hosted by Newhaven College.
Congratulations to our 2025 Bronze Medallion graduates, who earned their qualifications in partnership with WBSLSC. We’re proud of your commitment and can’t wait to see you patrolling our local beaches this summer!
Archie breaks records in Brisbane
Year 7 student, Archie Smyth has exceeded his own personal bests as part of Team Vic at the School Sports Australia Championships in Brisbane last week.
Archie excelled once again and managed to achieve his goal he set 12months ago after finishing 4th in the final for 50m and 100m backstroke last year. He got that individual medal and managed to break a national record in the process.
Archie created a new record for new Vic Country and School Sports Australia in the 50m Backstroke.
Archie's results from the week;
Gold and national record in 13U 50m Backstroke
2nd in 13U 100m Backstroke
2nd in 13/14 years 200m Backstroke
3rd in 13/14 years Medley Relay
3rd in 13/14 years Freestyle Relay (only 13 year old in the team and anchored the relay)
5th in 13U 100m Freestyle
8th in 13U 50m Freestyle and
8th in 13U 50m Butterfly
Congratulations Archie!
MTB King of Ballarat Series
In a fearless display of grit, gravity, and guts, Newhaven College’s Downhill Mountain Bike Team carved their names into the podium at the King of Ballarat (KOB) Series - a premier three-round downhill racing event hosted by Club MUD Ballarat.
Racing over a span of three months on three wildly different tracks, the KOB series isn’t for the faint-hearted. With over 50 competitors charging down the treacherous courses each round, consistency, courage, and control are the name of the game. And our riders brought the lot.
The first two rounds saw incredible riding by Maxen Mills, Miller Micallef and Hamish Dakers-Hock, all proving Newhaven’s got serious horsepower on the hill. But it was Round Three that tested every rider’s mettle. Faced with wild weather, slick mud and slippery roots and rocks, it was an all-or-nothing battle against the elements. Undeterred, Kody Lewis, Miller Micallef and Maxen Mills donned their race jerseys and pushed hard in the under-15 men’s category, navigating the chaos with tenacity.
Maxen Mills claimed second overall in the KOB Series, a mighty achievement in one of Victoria’s most hotly contested junior competitions.
Congratulations to our MTB riders!
Community Links
Jack Runs for Free 3D Hands
We are so proud of alumni Jack Montgomery who, on Saturday 19 July, ran 110km around Phillip Island to raise money for Free 3D Hands, a local organisation run by alumni and current parent Mat Bowtell.
Watch the story from 9 News Melbourne with Jack, Mat and another of our hard working alumni, Michael Coghlan, featured.Congratulations Jack for supporting an organisation so close to our hearts!
Local Jobs & Careers Expos in Bass Coast
This community event is an opportunity for students to meet and engage with employers to talk about the types of positions, apprenticeships, and career pathways available in Bass Coast and the surrounding areas.
** No need for Job Seekers to register, just turn up on the day **
Phillip Island Local Jobs & Careers Expo
9.30am to 1.30pm on Friday, 5 September 2025
Berninneit, 91-97 Thompson Ave, Cowes
For any enquiries: Kirsty Crooks, Acting Business Development Officer, Bass Coast Shire Council
