In this Issue
From the Principal
Farewell Year 12s
Our Year 12s concluded their classes on Tuesday. Whilst most of them will be completing upcoming VCE Examinations, Tuesday represented their last official day as students. Their last day in uniform. The day was a wonderful celebration of their time with us. It is made all the more special as we welcome parents and family members to join them on their final day.
The day began with a breakfast in the amphitheatre before moving to four House areas where each of our Year 12s were acknowledged individually by a friend, sibling or staff member. These heartfelt and moving tributes provide a rich insight into all of our departing students. We then gathered as a school in the gymnasium for our formal Prize Giving Assembly. The day concluded at Silverwater Resort where Year 12s have a chance to dress up and enjoy the night with their parents and staff.
It was a fitting farewell for a special group of students. They have left us with many fond memories. As I stated in my Principal’s address to the departing Year 12s; “Like most of you, I stand here this morning with mixed emotions. Pride… mostly. Proud of the year level that we are sending off today – who you are and what you have achieved. You are bright, fun, vibrant, enthusiastic, respectful and committed. In many ways, you embody all that is good about our school. You are what we hope our graduates will be – and there is great pride in that. But there is also a sense of sadness as we say goodbye – we think about how much you will be missed, and it is hard to imagine Newhaven without you. Such has been your presence for so long.”
I would like to congratulate our 2025 graduating class and wish them the best of luck for their upcoming exams.
MTB Competition a great success
On Tuesday 14 October, Newhaven College staged its first MTB event, hosting the inaugural SEISA competition. In fact, it is believed to be the first event of its kind hosted by any school.
Around 100 riders from our five SEISA schools completed a challenging course around the school that included going through our College amphitheatre, Main Reception and front doors! Cheered on by many of our students, with lots of excited gasps as students took flight on various jumps, the event was a great success. I would like to congratulate our TIC of Mountain Biking, Steve Scott, and all of the parent volunteers and helpers who made the event such a success.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
Vale Lynette Johnson
We are sad to announce the passing of Lynette (Lyn) Johnson. Lyn was a tireless worker for the College and a major support for husband, Kevin Johnson, during his lengthy tenure on the board, including as Chair (2000-2002).
We send our condolences to Lyn's family.
College News
Newhaven College Fundraising
Congratulations to our Year 12 Leadership who led the College to raise an incredible $14,198 for Bali Children Foundation. Mt Patrick Barry from BCF attended our Year 12 final assembly and was presented with the cheque for $14,198 by our College Captains.
A huge thank you to all our students, families and staff who participated in the fundraising events and donated throughout the year.
House Cup Awarded
During assembly this week, the House Cup winners were announced and given the coveted Cup! The House competition covers a huge area of events, from sporting events such as swimming, cross country, athletics and volleyball, to the stunning Art Competition held at the Performing Arts Wing. Middle School sang and danced in Term 2 and Senior School entertained everyone with their animated movie themed Dane/Drama Competition.
Congratulations to Clarke for coming out the victors over all.
Middle/Senior School House Overall results
1st Clarke House
2nd Sambell House
3rd Bass House
4th McHaffie House
MotoGP Ride By
Last Thursday, some our students were thrilled to watch the Australian Grand Prix 2025 Homecoming Ride, led by MotoGP World Champion Casey Stoner as it travelled past our front gates.
The students waved their flags, and Casey and his entourage waved back!
And to top it off, Katrina Lawrence, our Executive Assistant to the Principal, rubbed shoulders with the one and only Chris Hemsworth!
VCE Art & Design Exhibition
On Wednesday we celebrated the opening of the VCE Art & Design Exhibition in the Performing Arts Wing.
Students, friends and family congregated to enjoy cupcakes (lovingly supplied by our Food Tech students) and check out the works on display.
The exhibition highlights the outstanding Unit 3 and 4 works from the following subjects:
- Art Making and Exhibiting
- Visual Communication Design
- Media
- Product Design and Technologies
- Systems Engineering
The proceedings were presented by Visual Art Captain Sienna Bell. Art teacher Rebecca Power announced the prizes awarded to Michael Mehes for ‘Best in Show’ and the encouragement award went to Ailish Flynn for her hard-working and committed attitude. There was no doubt these two students represented all of the outstanding talent in the VCE cohort.
Open until Friday 31 October during school hours.
Georgia's Brave Shave
Hi, my name is Georgia, and I am doing the Brave Shave fundraiser at school, where I’m shaving my head for cancer research and a cure. I know the way that cancer can affect a family or a community. In my mere 15 years on this Earth, I have known too many people diagnosed with cancer and most didn’t survive their battle, so that’s why I plan to help stop it. But I need help from my community, and even the smallest contribution helps in the biggest way possible to create a cancer-free world for everybody.
Georgia Sanders
Year 9
Celebrating Children's Week
Children's Week is a national celebration. It recognises the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children. The event takes place in October every year, with thousands of Victorian children taking part in the festivities. Children’s Week 2025 will be held between 18 October – 26 October 2025.
The Children’s Week theme for 2025 is: “Everyone should know about Children’s Rights”.
We thought this might be a good opportunity to promote Child Safe standard 3.1, about children’s rights:
Children and young people must know they have rights, including:
- The right to feel and be safe.
- The right to information and support.
- The right to participate in decisions that affect them.
To comply, schools should ensure that:
- Information about children’s rights is visible, accessible, and embedded in school culture.
- Students are taught about their rights through the curriculum and co-curricular programs.
- Students are supported to exercise their rights, particularly in relation to safety and participation.
- Families and the broader school community understand and reinforce these rights.
Tahnee Brown
Head of Wellbeing
Junior School
Welcome to Term 4 in the Junior School
It is hard to believe how quickly the year has flown by. 2025 has been such a positive and rewarding year so far, filled with wonderful moments. As we head into the final stretch of the year, our focus remains on making every day count, celebrating achievements, upholding our school values, and continuing to nurture a strong sense of community.
New Junior School Playground
We are excited to announce that construction of our new Phillip Island-themed playground has begun. The design includes natural elements and deciduous trees to provide much-needed shade and create a welcoming play environment for our students. As works commence, there will be temporary restrictions in some areas where students usually play before, during, and after school. Fencing has been installed, and we ask for everyone’s support in ensuring students do not enter fenced-off areas. Parents who remain on-site before or after school are kindly asked to supervise children closely and remind them of these boundaries. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we begin this exciting upgrade to our Junior School grounds. We cannot wait to see our students enjoying the new playground when it is completed in 2026.
World Teachers’ Day
Next Friday, 31 October, is World Teachers’ Day. We would like to thank all of our incredible teachers for the difference they make each and every day, and for their wonderful contribution to our school community. Please feel free to remind your children to help celebrate this day with their teacher through a random act of kindness. A handmade card, words of kindness or something heartfelt are lovely ways to make this day extra special for our amazing classroom teachers.
Farewell and Welcome in the Art Room
Last week, we sadly farewelled our wonderful Junior School Art teacher, Tove Chadwick. Tove’s creativity and passion have inspired so many of our students, and the Junior School Art Show last term was a true testament to her incredible work. We thank Tove for her dedication and wish her all the very best.
We warmly welcome Claire Mangs, who joins us as the Junior School Art teacher on Mondays for the remainder of the year, and Fiona Anastasi, who will teach Year 2O and Year 1P Art on Fridays.
Staffing in 2026
We are delighted to announce that Kylie Carlson and Tahlia Maher will be joining our Junior School teaching team in 2026. Kylie joins us from Cowes Primary School, and this will be Tahlia’s first classroom teaching appointment. Both bring enthusiasm, warmth, and a passion for learning, and we are thrilled to welcome them into the Newhaven College community.
Prep 2026 Transition Program
Our Prep 2026 Transition Program is well underway. Last term, our incoming families joined us for library sessions to meet some of our teachers, our Principal, and each other. Today marks the second part of the program, with students joining our current Prep teachers for classroom sessions while families attend information sessions to learn about starting school at Newhaven College. The program aims to ensure that every student and family begins their educational journey with confidence, connection, and a strong foundation for success.
Foundation Parents: Rural Roads to Reading Research Project
As shared earlier in the year, Newhaven College is proudly participating in a three-year research project with La Trobe University titled Rural Roads to Reading. The project explores how regional and rural schools teach reading in the early years. Our current Foundation students completed oral language and reading assessments in Term 3, and the research team will soon contact families to complete a short online questionnaire (RAT-CP) about children’s feelings toward reading. If you prefer a paper version, please speak with your child’s classroom teacher. For any questions, you can contact the research team directly at reading@latrobe.edu.au
The Biggest Morning Tea: Prep students and families
Tuesday, 28 October 2025 | 10:30 am – 12:00 pm | Year 9 Environmental Centre
This year’s theme is “Newspaper Fashion.” Students in Prep, Year 6, and Year 9 will work together to design and create fashion pieces made entirely from recycled newspaper, celebrating sustainability, teamwork, and community spirit. All students are asked to wear their regular school uniform on the day. Costumes will be created during the event.
The Year 9 students will cater the morning tea, preparing a selection of sweet and savoury treats for guests. We warmly invite parents and guardians to join us for a cuppa, support our students’ creativity, and help raise funds for the Cancer Council through Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. We kindly ask visiting parents to make a $5.00 donation per attending adult, with all proceeds going directly to the Cancer Council.
As we move through the final term, it is wonderful to see our students continuing to learn with enthusiasm and demonstrate strong engagement in all areas of school life. Every day brings moments worth celebrating, from small milestones in the classroom to big achievements across the school. Thank you for your ongoing support, partnership, and positivity. The Junior School continues to thrive because of our dedicated teachers, engaged families, and incredible students.
Let us make the rest of the year count.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Book Club – Issue 7
Please be advised that all orders for Book Club are due in by 27 October, 2025. Thank you to all students and families for their support with Book Club. Any queries, please contact Mrs. Butera in the Library.
Janine Butera
Librarian
New Ga Ga Pit
A huge thank you the Parents and Friends Association in conjunction with our families for your fundraising efforts this year, which made our new GaGa Pit possible. It has been an instant hit among our students, and there is great excitement each break time. Our PE teacher, Jackie Clark, has led the charge in teaching all classes the rules of the game to ensure it is played safely and fairly. Thank you again for your support in helping bring this much-loved addition to life. It has been a wonderful success.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Year 1 Wildlife Incursion
Our Year 1 students were thrilled to take part in an exciting Wildlife incursion by Wildlife Xposure this term. As part of their current Biology Inquiry Unit, students learned about Australian native animals, exploring their behaviour, relationships, adaptations, habitats, and classification. The session was hands-on and engaging, as students had the opportunity to safely hold, pat, and observe a range of fascinating creatures, including a bettong (a small kangaroo species), pythons, a shingleback lizard, a goanna, a turtle, and even a real saltwater crocodile!
It was a memorable experience that brought our science learning to life and deepened students’ understanding of the amazing animals that share our environment. The excitement and curiosity in the room said it all and our emerging biologists absolutely loved the experience!
Andre Hetebrueg
Year 1 Teacher
Year 4 Forest Edge Camp
On the first day of term, our Year 4 students arrived at school early and headed to Forest Edge in Neerim East for a three-day camp. The students were prepared for the challenges of camp, which are different for every student. They may include self-management, fear of heights, homesickness or trying to get enough sleep in a cabin full of chatty peers! They were well-supported by the young adult camp leaders, their hard-working teachers, our wonderful school chaplain, Andre and four fantastic parent helpers who generously gave their time to attend camp. We offer our sincere thanks to Andre, Dil, Karl, Mark and the indomitable Hayley Brebner.
Within the beautiful setting of Forest Edge, the positive atmosphere of camp was palpable. Our students impressed us with their independence, willingness to face challenges and continual care for each other. They were open-minded in working and socialising with different peers and broadened their relationships within the cohort, another purpose of our school camp program. The mindset and behaviour of all our students on camp exemplified “In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength”.
Kate Middleton and Fiona Smart
Year 4 Teachers
Year 2 Sleepover and Day Camp
The Year 2 Sleepover was a huge success and an adventure to remember. Students enjoyed visits from the Police, Ambulance, and CFA, learning all about community helpers and even exploring the fire trucks and police bikes. The fun continued with pizza, ice cream, and a movie night watching Luca.
On Friday, students visited Amaze ‘N Things, where they explored, played mini golf, navigated the maze, and enjoyed a day full of fun and discovery. A heartfelt thank you to our amazing parent helpers who supported the event, especially those who stayed overnight. It was an incredible two days filled with learning, laughter, and teamwork.
Foundation Students Explore Churchill Island
On Thursday, 18 September, our Foundation students embarked on an exciting excursion to Churchill Island, the culmination of their Term 3 Humanities studies on “Special Places.”
During the day, students explored the historic homesteads, gardens and farm, imagining what life was like in the past. They watched a blacksmith demonstration, visited the farm animals, shearing shed, machinery and equipment sheds and enjoyed stories about the island’s history and cultural significance.
A special highlight was learning about the traditional custodians of the land, the Bunurong/Boonwurrung people. Students discovered the importance of the ancient Moonah trees - some of which were growing well before European settlement. They also learned that the island's traditional name is Moonah'mia.
After a morning of learning and discovery, everyone relaxed with lunch and games on the lawn under beautiful sunny skies.
A big thank you to our wonderful helpers - Denise, Courtney, Cassie, Tracey, Kellie, and Nala - for supporting us on the day. It was a fantastic outing enjoyed by all!
Karen Faulwetter and Kerryn Lynch
Prep Teachers
Water Week Poster Competition
Congratulations to all our students who submitted posters to Westernport Water's annual Water Week Competition. A lot of work went into the posters, and many of our students received prizes. Congratulations to our 1st place winners, Arabella Wall (Year 1-2) and Venus Herath Mudiyanselage (Year 3-4) -who's submission also came 3rd in Victoria! Esther Gale (Prep) came 2nd place and Jude Thompson and Airlie Lewandowski (Year 3-4) both came 3rd.
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
Finishing Strong
The recent Melbourne Marathon was an incredible reminder of what teamwork, planning, and determination can achieve. With more than 50,000 participants, the event ran seamlessly. A true credit to the organisers and volunteers who made it possible. But what stood out most were the people themselves: runners and walkers of all ages, shapes, and fitness levels, each with their own goal. Some aimed to win; others simply wanted to cross the finish line. What they all shared was persistence, grit, and a willingness to keep going.
That spirit of perseverance is a perfect reminder for us as we enter the final quarter of the school year. Like a marathon, success isn’t about sprinting at the start and fading at the end. It’s about pacing yourself, staying focused, and finishing strong. There may be challenges along the way, just as the MotoGP riders faced strong winds and tough conditions on race day. But like them, we can adapt, stay steady, and push through.
As we move through the final weeks of term, let’s keep doing what works: maintaining good routines, putting in consistent effort, showing respect, wearing our uniform with pride, and continuing to support each other. Success is built on these small, daily habits, turning up ready to learn, giving your best in class, and doing the right thing, even when it’s not easy.
And remember, it’s not just about individual effort. Teamwork matters. When students, teachers, and families work together, we build a strong, connected community. One that supports, encourages, and brings out the best in each other. Thank you for being an important part of that.
SEISA Mountain Bike Competition!
The course ran smoothly and catered brilliantly to students of all abilities. Riders demonstrated incredible endurance, core and back strength, balance, aerial manoeuvres, and bike-handling skills as they navigated jumps, ramps, and the steep descent in the amphitheatre. Everyone had a fantastic time and best of all, no major stacks or injuries! (Always a good day when both bikes and riders make it to the finish in one piece.) Thank you to Steve Scott for his hard work and organisation.
Middle School Leadership 2026
A special thank you to all students who applied for a Middle School leadership position next year. Each applicant has taken the time to reflect on their strengths and aspirations, and to put those thoughts into words. The next stage will be the interviews, and I wish all our students the very best. There will be moments of excitement for some and disappointment for others but every student who put themselves forward has shown courage and commitment.
Thank You, PFA
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our Parents and Friends Association (PFA) for their generous contribution towards the Middle School Gaga Ball Pit. Your continued support enriches our students’ experience and helps build the sense of community that makes Newhaven College such a special place. We’re incredibly grateful for all that you do.
As we head toward the finish line of the year, let’s keep showing up, working hard, being kind, and doing the right thing. If we do that, we’ll cross the line together and be proud of what we’ve achieved.
Ralph Arceo
Head of Middle School
Middle School Drama Production
Rehearsals are underway for the Middle School production of a rather different Alice in Wonderland...
Director, Mrs McMillan is working hard with the students to learn all their lines and balance the myriad of costumes.
Coming up in early December, this will not be one to miss.
Senior School
The first few weeks of Term 4 in the Senior School have centred around the last days of the Year 12 students at the College. On Tuesday 21 October, we farewelled 89 Year 12 students. The vibrancy, energy and positivity this year level brought to the College is going to be hard to replicate. This year’s cohort is a tight group, with strong friendships threaded throughout and there is no doubt that they have formed lifelong bonds with each other. They are a group that will be greatly missed by the teaching staff.
Tuesday saw the families of all our graduating Year 12 students descend upon the College to celebrate their schooling, their full breadth of experience across 13 years of formal education. The day began with breakfast in the amphitheatre – over 300 people celebrating the educational journey of our finishing Year 12 students.
This was followed by all families joining all Year 9-12 students in their Houses for personal farewells of each Year 12 student. An intimate setting where each Year 12 student was personally farewelled by either a younger sibling or a close friend. Throughout this occasion, there were few dry eyes left in various venues across the school as our Senior House Leaders celebrated the schooling of every Year 12 student.
The formal proceedings at the College were then rounded out with a Graduation & Celebration Assembly with all Middle School and Senior School students joining the graduating class of 2025 and their families to recognise the successes and achievements of each Year 12 student. All Year 12 students received their Valedictory Certificates, and we celebrated the successes of our best students in academic and sporting spheres, as well as recognising the considerable impact so many of our Year 12 students have had on the school and wider community.
A brief summary of the students winning our key awards is given below. The College is extremely proud of the class of 2025, and the students listed below represent students that should deserve to be recognised for their outstanding commitment and determination throughout their time at Newhaven College:
Academic Awards
Two Subject Awards: Sienna Bell & Abby Papas
Three Subject Awards: Cecily de Gooyer
Four Subject Awards: Lara Smyth
Academic Endeavour Awards: Jazz Mau & Isaac Savona
CUC Achievement Award: Mackenzie Slidders
ADF Future Innovators Award: Lara Smyth
Sport Awards
SEISA Sport Awards: Lucas Allen & Lara Smyth
Major Sport Awards: Olivia Cumming & James Harman
Values Awards
Bass House: Charlotte Derham & Zoe Scott
Clarke House: Nissa Campbell Walker & Jasper Cashman
McHaffie House: Jasmine Crooks & Joey Thompson
Sambell House: Grace Morris & Matilda Russell
The Long Tan Leadership Award: Gabriel di Falco
Special Prizes
Principal’s Prize 2025: Marley Brown
Papworth Prize 2025: Lara Smyth
Later in the evening, the class of 2025, and their families were able to celebrate their Valedictory with many of the staff who have guided these students over the years at Silverwater Resort. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day, and a delightful way in which to round out each student’s time at Newhaven College. This year level has had a marked impact on the College, the staff as a whole and so many of our younger students.
All that remains for our Year 12 students now is for them to complete their VCE examinations. This group has worked incredibly hard this year and I have no doubt that they will give their very best in each of their examinations over what can be a stressful three-week period. Their teachers have done all they can, it is now over to each student to show the world what they have to offer. I have never believed in wishing students luck for examinations – when they go into their examinations well prepared, there is no need for luck, there is only preparation, determination and success. In seven weeks, we will soon see what level of success experienced by this cohort!
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Year 12 celebrations
Over the past week our Year 12s celebrated their final days of school, and the build up to valedictory. On Thursday, they dressed as ‘what I wanted to be when I grew up’ as remembered from their childhoods. On Friday, it was time to give their school uniforms a makeover, with some very creative designs. On Monday it was time for crazy dress ups and their last ever Commando Games.
The students enjoyed their last few days at school with fun and laughter.
Valedictory Dinner
The costumes were exchanged for formal wear, the Year 12s' final event for their schooling. Students enjoyed a night at Silverwater Resort with the families, teachers and Leadership with good food and a dance.
We congratulate all the students, and their families and wish them all the best for their upcoming exams.
Japan Study Tour
Our partnership with our sister school, Ibaraki Christian Junior High School, continued to strengthen in 2025. After welcoming their students in July, it was our turn to visit them in September. Over the course of a week, our students stayed with host families, attended classes, joined club activities, and experienced everyday Japanese school life. It was wonderful to see the students adapt so quickly, stepping out of their comfort zones and forming genuine connections with sister school students.
At times, students encountered moments that were new or unfamiliar, but they approached each one with maturity and a positive attitude. These experiences helped them grow in confidence and deepen their understanding of cultural differences.
We were once again humbled by the generosity and warmth shown by our sister school and the host families. From home-cooked meals to thoughtful gestures, every act of kindness made the visit truly memorable.
It was a joy to travel with such an enthusiastic and respectful group. We hope they carry the friendships and lessons from this journey with them and continue to embrace opportunities to explore the world beyond the classroom.
Participants: Matilda Abraham-Williams, Felix Fothergill, Eve Oakley, Kei Eishold, Ania Falzon, Jasmine Gill, Scarlet Jongejan, Kordelia Kossena, Poppy Miles, Sequoia Patterson, Ayishika Perera, Sybelle Perry, Chay Plews, Mia Thompson, Ben Winterson
Mitsuko Horiguchi, Ruth Turton and Lachlan Gale
Accompanying Staff
Japan Study Tour Student Reflections
My homestay in Japan was an unforgettable part of the exchange. From playing board games to exploring new places and sharing delicious meals, I truly felt at home. Each day brought kindness and fun—memories I’ll always treasure. Our week in Tokyo was amazing; we explored shrines, markets, and towering buildings covered in electric signs. I’m sure none of us will forget the memories we made together in Tokyo.
Jasmine Gill
Year 10
I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to travel to Japan in September this year. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. During the trip, I gained valuable insight into Japanese culture and everyday life. Alongside seeing incredible sights and forming new friendships within our group, staying with my host family was definitely a highlight. The Kuwano family welcomed me warmly into their home, creating such a kind and caring environment. They introduced me to the Japanese way of life, and going to school with Kanae gave me a real glimpse into what high school in Japan is like. My host family took me on fun outings, shared amazing meals with me, and made me feel part of their world. I also really enjoyed getting to know the wonderful, supportive teachers who joined us on the trip. I made so many special memories and shared countless laughs that I’ll treasure forever.
Matilda Abraham-Williams
Year 11
Biology Olympiad 2025
In August 2025 Issy Mahon, Tilly Stecher and Jasmine Ruffin took part in the Biology Olympiad. This is a challenging exam style competition that consists of a two hour online paper that tests students knowledge and understanding of Biology that goes far beyond the VCE.
This was offered as a purely voluntary experience and these three were willing to embrace the challenge. Issy achieved a distinction to place her in the top 20% of those who completed the Olympiad. Tilly and Jasmine also performed well, achieving a Credit and Participation respectively.
Marc Tillotson
Science Teacher
Year 9 NAIDOC Games
The Year 9 NAIDOC Community Games were an awesome celebration of culture and community. Held last term, students got involved in traditional games like Marngrook and Burunjin, learning about their cultural meaning while earning community points for their Houses.
The day was all about teamwork, respect, and connecting with First Nations culture. It was a fun and meaningful way to celebrate NAIDOC Week and bring the Year 9 group together.
Sam Foura
Head of Year 9
Year 12 Students visit Preps
School is a long journey - full of highs, lows, and a few moments we’d all rather forget.
Last week, the Year 12 Mathematical Methods class took a delightful detour down memory lane with a visit to Mrs Lynch’s Prep classroom. While only a few of them started their schooling at Newhaven, everyone was encouraged to think back to their younger selves - to a time where they once thought the number 1 was spelled “w-u-n” and wondered why “two” had a “w” in it at all.
There were smiles, laughs, and a few wide eyes as they watched the beginnings of reading and counting unfold. For the Year 12s, it was a fun reminder of how far they’ve come - and just how much they’ve learned along the way.
Most left feeling a little prouder, a little more motivated for that final sprint to the finish line… and maybe with a tiny new friend or two.
Of course, some couldn’t resist a cheeky comment, offering their heartfelt (and slightly sarcastic) sympathies to these bright-eyed Preps - because, after all, their school journey is only just getting started!
Peter Clerks
Teacher
Year 12 Trivia Night
In August, the Year 12 leadership team hosted an exclusive Year 12 (and parents) trivia night. The evening was equipped with tricky questions and surprising answers - particularly those in the sports category! Around $1,300 was raised - bringing this year's fundraising total to an incredible $14,198.00.
A massive thank you to the PFA for all their help and effort put into the night - especially for organising so many amazing prizes.
Newhaven College Captains
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
Bands Night
Our annual Bands Night at the Westernport-Hotel San Remo gives our students the chance to show off their talents in a public venue, including all the 'roadie' jobs that come with being in a band.
On Monday 13 October, 50 students from Years 7-12 assembled in 24 different bands to perform to everyone at the pub. The talent, professionalism and organisation our students showed was incredible.
We thank all our wonderful music staff who supported our students on the night, and all the families who came along to cheer them on.
Senior School House Dance/Drama
On the last day of term 3, our Senior School students came together to show off their acting and dancing skills for the annual House Dance & Drama Carnival.
This year's theme was Pixar movies, which opened the door to some wonderful costumes and silly antics as each story was relayed. Bass' performance of Toy Story starred Marley Brown and Woody and Asha Cripps as Buzz Lightyear. Sambell's portrayal of Shrek, lead by Finn O'Brien as Shrek and a very sore-kneed Kiera Rowe as Lord Farquaad. Next came McHaffie's rendition of Finding Nemo, with some beautifully painted images of sealife and Abby Papas in the title role. Lastly, Clarke's version of Cars, with Cooper Walton as Lightning McQueen had everyone laughing.
Congratulations to the winners, Sambell House, for bringing Shrek to life for everyone in the crowd.
Junior School Art Exhibition
On Wednesday 17 September, our Assembly area was filled with the incredible artwork created by our Junior School students throughout the year. The Art Show, attended by families and friends, was a wonderful celebration of the creativity and opportunities our students enjoy as part of the Junior School art program.
Proud families walked through the exhibition with their children, who shared insights about their pieces and what they had learned. Adding to the atmosphere, some of our students provided a beautiful music backdrop with piano and violin performances.
It was inspiring to see the ways students were able to creatively express themselves through art.
A big thank you to our Art Teachers, Tove Chadwick and Rodney Sipthorp, for all their dedication to our young students' art experience throughout the year.
VCE Art and Design Exhibition
See the College News section of this newsletter for more information about this event.
Sport
Inaugural SEISA MTB Competition
On Tuesday 14 October, five schools competed in the inaugural South East Independent Schools Association (SEISA) Mountain Bike Competition, racing around the dedicated tracks and through the grounds of Newhaven College. With over 100 competitors riding, spectators watched on in amazement as the route took riders around the Flow Trail, down through the crowded amphitheatre, straight through the Main Reception building and out the front doors! Riders made their way around the grounds of the College, leaping over intermediate elements including jumps, drops, the Whale Tail and shooting through the Tunnel, a 40ft shipping container!
Utilising the home ground advantage, Newhaven College eventually collected finishing honours, winning in all of the age group categories. A huge congratulations to Hamish Dakers-Hock and Lucy Thompson who placed first in their respective competitions; with special mentions for Ryder Evans and Evie McCabe who each placed second; and to Maxen Mills, Sophia Hardy and Fletcher Middleton who each placed third.
Steven Scott
MTB Academy
Regional Athletics
Congratulations to all students who represented Newhaven College at the Regional Athletics Carnival in Newborough on Wednesday 15 October. Our athletes competed proudly across a range of events.
A special mention to Dae, who placed 3rd in High Jump, and to our outstanding 9/10yo girls relay team, who finished 2nd and have now qualified for the State Final in November, an incredible achievement!
A big thank you to Kerry Doig for her wonderful help and support on the day.
Well done to all competitors for representing Newhaven College.
Jaclyn Clark
Junior School PE and Sports Teacher
Georgia and Yasmin Volleyball Gold
Congratulations to Georgia Mills (Year 10) and Yasmin Gloria (Year 9), who both struck back-to-back gold at the 2025 Volleyball Victoria Junior Country Championships held in Horsham in September.
Representing South Gippsland Volleyball Club, Georgia served as Vice Captain of the U17 girls’ team, securing her fourth consecutive gold medal across both the Open and Junior Country Championships.
Yasmin impressed throughout the tournament and was recognised for her outstanding performance with selection in the prestigious All Star 7 team.
Congratulations to Georgia and Yasmin on their incredible achievements - your discipline, dedication, teamwork and commitment continue to make Newhaven College proud!
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