Zac Recruited to Western Bulldogs 

We are so excited for our AFL SportsReady Trainee, Zac Walker, who last night found out he has been drafted to the AFL's Western Bulldogs. He received a call from Head Coach Luke Beveridge soon after the announcement to congratulate Zac on his success. Zac was at Head of Junior School, Cath Huther's home, when he found out the news. His friends descended on him with such enthusiasm it's surprising he didn't receive a concussion! Having been a lifetime supporter of the Western Bulldogs, Zac couldn't be happier!

Zac had his first taste of being an AFL idol today when he was swarmed by excited students wanting his autograph. He was offered scraps of paper, footballs, shoes, a lip balm and even a number of foreheads as places to sign his now famous name! 

Zac was still in shock from the night before and said the exciting news was yet to sink in. When asked about his journey to success, he said "You have to be patient and keep your head down. If you keep working and doing the right things, opportunities will come to you. Continue working on your craft and stay fit, running 24-7 and getting to the gym when you can. The biggest thing is choosing the right times to have fun and when to settle down and stay disciplined."

We wish Zac all the best for a long and successful AFL career.

Foundation Day Assembly

On Tuesday 13 May, the whole school came together, along with leadership, members of our College Board and Life Governors, for the most important day on our College calendar. Newhaven College Foundation Day gives us the chance to celebrate our school, where we have been and what makes our school special.

Proceedings commenced with the induction of Mr Simon Manning as Life Governor. Mr Manning was applauded by current Chair Mr David Jobe, as an integral part of the team who helped make Newhaven College the incredible school it is today, during his tenure as Treasurer of the College Board.

Our special guest speaker, College alumni Mat Bowtell from Free 3D Hands enthralled all those in attendance with his story of discovering his gift of combining innovation and creativity to develop prosthetic hands and arms. His work has assisted over 20,000 people world-wide. He explained how the recipients' smiles and gratitude motivate him and his team every day. His passion and dedication was applauded by our entire school community. 

Our Preps were formally introduced to the College community when student leaders awarded them with their House badges, introducing them as Class of 2037! Our College Captains and Middle School Captains addressed all assembled with reflections on their year so far. They all displayed incredible skills in oration, much to the approval of the audience.

Proceedings were punctuated by musical performances by our Junior School and Combined Choirs, and a rendition of 'Xanadu' by the cast of last month's School Production.

Chairs of the Board of Governance acknowledged 

After the Foundation Day Assembly, the College invited the Life Governors, past Board members and other dignitaries to catch up over morning tea. The opportunity was taken to unveil a new Honour Board for the College, Chairs of the Board of Governance, listing all the College Board Chairs from Founding Chair Bill Papworth to our current Chair, David Jobe. 

It was an honour to share the unveiling with past Board Chair's present were Greg Price, Pamela Cameron and Kevin Johnson, along with David Jobe.

Reconciliation Walk

On Tuesday, Newhaven College students, staff, and parents gathered once again - despite chilly winds and light rain - to walk two laps of the school oval in a powerful show of solidarity and respect for First Nations Peoples. Year 9 student, River Hume, a Boonwurrung of the Yallock-Bullock clan, welcomed everyone to Country before the walk commenced. A banner, painted by Year 12 student Sienna Bell, led the procession.

This year’s theme of ‘Bridging Now to Next’ is a reminder for all Australians to reflect on the ongoing connection between past, present and future, and calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us. 

Always Was, Always Will Be.

Mother's Day Lunch

On the Friday before Mother's Day, Newhaven College held a special lunch to celebrate our mums, grandmas and all the special women in our lives at Phillip Island Vineyard & Winery. Our PFA ran a raffle for those in attendance, and everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch and a glass of wine.

Thank you to everyone who came long and made it such a wonderful occasion, yet again, and to the Phillip Island Winery staff who made us feel so welcome!

More news about Mother's Day's Mums and Muffins event in the Junior School section of this newsletter.

Mums and Muffins

To celebrate Mother's Day, our Junior School students invite their mum, grandma or special friend to a special event, Mums and Muffins!

Everyone was greeted with a tea/coffee and a muffin to start the day, after which students took their mum or special person into the classrooms to meet their friends and teachers. The joy this event brings to everyone involved is really special.

'Splash of Japanese' Day

Japanese Day was a wonderful celebration where students from Prep to Year 4 came together in cross-age groups, allowing them to share and learn alongside peers from across the Junior School. The day was filled with engaging cultural activities such as fan making, traditional dancing, taiko drumming, calligraphy, chopstick games, and learning Japanese songs. It was a fun filled day that helped students develop a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture while building connections with one another.

David Prideaux

Perceptual Motor Program (PMP)

Thank you to Jaclyn Clark and our dedicated team of parent volunteers for their support of this important initiative, which began this week for our Prep and Year 1 students during their scheduled Sport sessions. PMP helps develop key motor skills such as coordination, balance and spatial awareness through structured physical activities. In addition to enhancing physical development, research has shown that PMP also supports cognitive growth, concentration and classroom readiness. It provides a strong foundation for early learning success.

Cath Huther

Head of Junior School

An Electrifying Visit to the Science Lab for Year 1

As part of their Inquiry unit on science and scientists, the Year 1 students recently enjoyed an exciting visit to the Science Lab. With the guidance of Mr. Torstonson, the young learners had the chance to step into the world of scientific discovery through hands-on experiments.

During their visit, students observed how an indicator liquid changed colour when acids and bases were added—an engaging way to explore chemical reactions. They were also introduced to the Van de Graaff generator, where they learned about electric charge in a truly memorable way. Those who were keen even had the chance to feel the static electricity for themselves—what an electrifying experience!

The students left the lab full of wonder and enthusiasm. A big thank you to Mr. Tortonson for sharing this incredible learning space and sparking curiosity in our future scientists.

Cath Huther

Head of Junior School

National Simultaneous Storytime 2025  

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). Every year a picture book written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.

On Wednesday 21 May 2025, Junior School students celebrated NSS at Assembly where 2O and 2S presented the book titled ‘The Truck Cat’ written by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell. Activities relating to the story were also completed in Library lessons. The book is a story about cats and humans, immigration and identity, and homes lost and found. Along with his friend Yacoub, Tinka the cat travels roads wide and narrow, near and distant. But no matter how much they travel, home feels very far away for both. When Tinka and Yacoub are unexpectedly separated, they are determined to find their way back to each other-and, in doing so, might find more than they expected.

Bridget Haines

Library Teacher

Elephant Ed Workshops

Our Year 7 and 8 students recently participated in a series of engaging and age-appropriate workshops run by Elephant Ed, focusing on respectful relationships and sexual health education.

Year 8 took part in two sessions: Sex & Social Media and Porn vs Reality. Both were extremely well received, with over 95% of students giving them a thumbs up and expressing a desire for Elephant Ed to return. Most students reported feeling more informed and shared that they have someone they feel comfortable talking to about these topics.

Year 7 students completed the Respectful Relationships and Choices and Changes workshops, covering friendships, independence, and making respectful choices. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with nearly all students endorsing the sessions, wanting more, and indicating they felt better informed and supported.

These workshops continue to play a vital role in supporting our students’ wellbeing and understanding of healthy, respectful relationships.

Ralph Arceo

Head of Middle School

Year 8 HAS Coastal Excursion

On a blustery yet successful day, Year 8 students embarked on a Geography and Earth Sciences (HAS) excursion along the southern coastline of Millowl (Phillip Island), exploring from Cape Woolamai to Grants Point, the Nobbies, and concluding at the Penguin Parade. The focus of the excursion was to investigate the island’s dynamic geology through a range of fieldwork activities, including SCUMPS analysis (Size, Colour, Use, Materials, Parts, Shape), detailed field drawings, and rock identification exercises.

Students worked collaboratively to uncover the geological history of Millowl, identifying key rock types and formations that tell the story of Phillip Island’s volcanic past. Despite strong coastal winds, spirits remained high, especially when hot chocolate and lemon ginger tea were served at Pyramid Rock, providing a welcome energy boost before the 5km walk from the Nobbies to the Penguin Parade.

This excursion supports Part 2 of the assessment, which requires students to complete a comprehensive SCUMPS analysis and produce an annotated map of the Southern Coastline. These tasks tie directly into current curriculum topics: Mapping, Geographical Analysis, and Rock Formation and Types.

Overall, it was a highly enjoyable and educational day that combined outdoor exploration with hands-on scientific learning.

Cynthia Young

Learning Support Teacher

Landcare incursion for 5/6 HWB program

As part of the Health and Wellbeing program in Year 5/6, we were fortunate enough to have Lisa Wangman from Landcare spend time with a select group of students this afternoon. She walked us around our magnificent property, outlining the indigenous flora and discussing the historical plantings on the grounds that have occurred since the Year 9 Centre was built. It was in 2005 that over 2000 plants were planted around the then newly built Environmental Centre, and over 1000 native plants were put in the ground at the back of our property on National Tree Day in 2016. Lisa also talked to the students about our old wetlands and trees, and gardens established around the Middle School Art building.

We admired the many She Oaks on the school grounds and talked about the changes to vegetation since farmers first established themselves on Phillip Island.

We thank Lisa for her time and knowledge, and we look forward to her next visit later in the term.

Shona O'Dempsey

Year 6 Teacher

Adventures in Country Victoria

As a Cowes resident I am often reminded by members of the Newhaven College community that I tend to limit myself to the local delights on offer on Phillip Island over the weekends and particularly over the summer holidays, at the expense of some pretty amazing offerings available to me in Gippsland, just a few kilometres away on the other side of the bridge. Being a creature of habit, I tend to laugh off many of these recommendations and get on with my usual routine. Last weekend, however, was different.

Inverloch-Kongwak Football & Netball Club on Saturday, 24 May

I have realised I have been neglectful of the around 50% of our college community that live ‘off island’, so I took advantage of the plea from Year 11 student Harry Ashmore to visit the home ground of the Inverloch-Kongwak Football & Netball Club on Saturday 24 May. I am a proud New Zealander and I love my rugby, but my experiences at a Gippsland AFL match and Netball game taught me that community football and netball are the lifeblood of country Victoria – our young people live for these games. They love the fierce competition, the battle on court or on the field, but at the end of the day, it is the love of the games they play, and the community spirit generated that is the true winner on these days.

National Motocross Championship events at Loy Yang on Sunday 25 May 

On Sunday, I was welcomed by the Townsend and Fox families to one of the most extraordinary sporting events I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing, the National Motocross Championship event at Loy Yang, near Traralgon. I experienced the exhilaration and meaning that this sport brings to the lives of so many, and in my world, to the lives of three of our current students,  and one of our past students. I was indeed transfixed at times when watching these incredibly skilled riders fling themselves around the track with no regard for their own safety. At the end of the day, I reflected on how lucky the school really is to have such talented individuals, and how amazing their incredibly supportive families really are. It begs the question – what do our Newhaven families sacrifice to ensure their children have everything they want in life? Based on today, it would seem a great deal.

Please read my comprehensive musings via the link below:

Head of Senior School article 29 May 2025

Brett Torstonson

Head of Senior School

International Engineering Competition

A team of five dedicated students from Newhaven College has achieved international recognition for their outstanding work in the Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) - an annual STEM competition that engages high school students (Years 9–12) in solving real-world engineering problems faced by leading industries.

This year, teams were tasked with designing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of flying into fire zones to deliver and retrieve supplies; an urgent and highly relevant challenge in today’s world. Students were required to use professional engineering software to develop their solutions and submit an academic paper, alongside a presentation detailing the design, functionality, and impact of their proposed UAV.

The Newhaven team began working on the challenge in 2024 and dedicated many months to researching, designing, and refining their concept. Their academic paper was of such a high standard that they were invited to present it at the RWDC finals in Washington, D.C., a significant achievement and testament to their hard work and ingenuity. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond their control, the team was unable to attend the finals in person. The team came close to winning, missing out on the $US50,000 scholarships to Embry Riddel University in the US.

Maths teacher, Melinda Kelly served as the team’s coach, providing day to day support and fostering collaboration and critical thinking throughout the project. The team was fortunate to be mentored by aeronautical engineer Clint Heinze, whose industry expertise and technical guidance were invaluable throughout the project. Clint generously volunteered his time to support the students, bringing real-world engineering insight and helping to ensure the team’s work met professional standards. His mentorship played a critical role in shaping the students’ understanding of the design process and preparing them for international competition.

We congratulate the students and commend them for representing Newhaven College with such innovation, determination, and professionalism on the international stage.

Students: Issy Mahon – Project Manager and Project Scientist, Eli Bowker (Software Engineer), Freya Berry (Project Mathematician), Jasmine Ruffin (Communication Analyst and Strategist) and Tilly Stecher (Systems and Test Engineer).

Melinda Kelly

Mathematics Teacher

Jordan Crugnale MP visit 

Newhaven College was honoured to receive a visit from the Local State MP for Bass, Jordan Crugnale MP on Monday 19 May.

Jordan visited the College to meet with our Youth Parliament team (Gabriel Di Falco, Miranda Zalunardo, Nissa Campbell-Walker, Jasmine Ruffin, Tilly Stecher and Matilda Feehan) to consult with her on the ins and outs of State Parliament, to give them a better understanding of the requirements for passing bills through Parliament. In addition to the Youth Parliament team, Joey Thompson joined the group, and together they were regaled by stories from the Bass electorate, discussing the frustrations associated with going through a budgetary process and the joy of seeing a community need turned into a reality for constituents. 

We cannot thank Jordan enough for her generosity of spirit and the thoughtful way she engaged these young people in the political process.

Year 12 Society Function

On 14 May, our Year 12 students gathered for their first social event of the year - the Society Function. This occasion provided a chance to embrace formality, foster camaraderie, and reflect on the journey ahead.

Year 12 students dressed in their finest ‘neat casual’, with everyone looking very professional. They spent some time mingling, eating profiteroles and vol-au-vents, and drinking mocktails, served by younger students, in the PAW Foyer. They then moved into the Black Box Theatre where they were regaled by stories from three past Class of 2020 students: Sam Taylor, Ruby Formosa and Holly Buckley. Our alumni were wonderful in telling the Year 12 students about their University experience. Their stories were informative and inspirational, and we thank them for sharing their experiences with our Year 12 students.

Brett Torstonson

Head of Senior School

Year 10 Food Studies: Community Catering Initiative 

The Year 10 Food Studies program places a strong emphasis on developing students' skills in community catering. As part of this focus, students prepared a warm morning tea for Mother’s Day, thoughtfully serving homemade scones accompanied by jam and freshly whipped cream. In line with industry standards, students wore hairnets and gloves during food preparation, mirroring expectations within a professional commercial kitchen. Their attention to detail and pride in presentation were evident, prompting them to extend their catering efforts. 

In a subsequent session, students explored the preparation and professional presentation of salad wraps. Under the guidance of our experienced Food Studies Technician, Meagan Hollings, whose background in professional catering greatly enriches the program - students learned to roll wraps with precision and secure them neatly in paper to maintain structure and presentation. Approximately 65 wraps featuring a variety of fresh ingredients were prepared and proudly served to members of the school community, demonstrating the students' growing confidence and competence in culinary service.

Carmel Roberts

Food Studies Teacher

Year 9 University Workshops

Our students recently participated in a range of Workshops facilitated by Country Universities Centre (CUC) Bass Coast and Swinburne University. The purpose of the afternoon was for students to be able to experience workshops in the areas of Law, Film and Technology, Engineering and Exercise Science, to gain an understanding of what studying these areas at a tertiary level may entail.

Students loved the practical and hands on activities and for many this has sparked an awareness about future pathways. Our thanks to CUC and Swinburne for facilitating this event.

Anthea Bennett

Head of Careers

Year 11 & 12 Careers Seminar 

Our students are approaching a future with more career diversity than ever before. Newhaven College provides support to our senior students as they embark on their future endeavours, including visits to universities and residential colleges, hands on careers counseling and talks by professional speakers.

As part of our annual Careers Seminar, Year 11 & 12 students had the opportunity to hear from a group of highly experienced individuals from a diverse range of fields. The purpose of the afternoon was to showcase a range of industry speakers highlighting their career journey, education and training requirements, and career challenges. We thank our Newhaven College community members who shared their passion and insights with students: Karl Dunham – Fire Fighter; Belinda Egan – Builder & Small Business Owner; Clint Heinze – Engineering, Science and AI; Denisa Syrova – Architect; Kate Williams – Victoria Police; Adrian Di Falco – Business, Economics & Finance.

The future is bright for our Senior School students and we can't wait to see where life takes them!

SIESA Music Festival

On Wednesday 28 May, 30 of our finest musicians headed off to Beaconhills Berwick for the annual SEISA Music Festival to participate in one of orchestra, choir or big band.

SEISA Music is a special day in the calendar, providing our students an opportunity to collaborate with like-minded students from the SEISA network. Often they are the same students they compete against at sport or theatre sports events, so it's a great way to get to know them on a less competitive level.

The Gala Concert was a special evening attended by the principals of each of the SEISA Schools and around 150 parents and friends. We were treated to a variety of performances from each school and the choir, big band and orchestra.

Congratulations to Aoife O'Connell (Voice) for representing Newhaven College so beautifully with her performance of The Wizard and I.

It was wonderful to see so many of our student in the choir singing beautiful renditions of Sombamba, This Is Me and then joining the big band orchestra for the finale spectacular performance of Beyond the Sea. Congratulations to Cecily D, Sophia H, Scarlette H, Zara H, Evie H, Aoife O, Ruby P, Ayishika P, Ruby P, Annabelle S, Tilly S, Hamish DH, Allan D, Arthur D and Luka F.

The big band got the audience tapping their feet with a lively rendition of Stray Cat Strut and the classic Latin jazz piece, Manteca. Well done to Madi K, Charlee, P, Hayden H, Manning D, Felix F, Finn CW and James C.

It was pleasing to see so many of our students reach the standard to perform as part of the SEISA Orchestra. Great work, Arianna W, Levi S, Jack M, Michael C, Georgia S, Ruth N and Mimi Y. The orchestra performed Capriccio Espagnole by Rimsky-Korsakov and Overture to Royal Fireworks Music by Handel.

The SIESA Music Festival has certainly reached a new level and we look forward to seeing the event grow each year. Thank you to our staff, Mr Ryan, Ms Scully, Mr Armer and Mrs Lockhart for the work preparing our students and working within the groups on the day. A huge congratulations to all students involved and thank you for representing our College with such pride.

Matthew Goss

Director of Music

Year 12 Theatre Studies Play

Our Year 12 Theatre Studies students recently put on a stage production of The Unravelling by Finn Kennedy.

We were so proud of the sophisticated and entertaining play produced by the Year 12 Theatre Studies class on Friday 16 May. The production of a performance provides the vehicle for a demanding process of collaboration, design and performance run solely by the students. The Black Box theatre provided a blank canvas for the students to 'paint and play in' as they entranced the audience with their interpretation of The Unravelling, a play about the power of mythology to change your life. Students placed trust in each other during the lead up and on the night, with the depth of their research being evident in clever and innovative design choices.

Karen Milkins-Hendry

Director of Learning

VCE Soiree

Wednesday last week saw our Rehearsal Hall at the Performing Arts Centre come to life with our VCE Music performing to a supportive audience of family and friends. Music Captains Archie Robson and Cecily de Gooyer hosted the evening well, providing informative introductions to each of the students’ performances. This event provides our students with a chance to perform solo and ensemble works to a live audience and hone their skills. 

Well done to all performers, Aoife O’Connell, Jemilla Prideaux, Grace Farmer, Mackenzie Cameron, Mitchell White, Campbell Dunstan, Indigo Aurora, Cecily de Gooyer, Isaac Savona, and Archie Robson. Special thanks to our staff, Rob Turton, David Prideaux and Carmel Slater.

Matthew Goss

Director of Music

Addams Family at Wonthaggi Arts Centre

We are proud of Newhaven College's theatrical talent, and seeing it spread throughout our community is wonderful to see. 

The upcoming Wonthaggi Theatrical Group's production of The Addams Family stars our very own Year 9 student Jude Fisher as Pugsley and Voice Teacher Kerryn Lockhart as Morticia, backed up by numerous talented students, staff and College alumni.

Wishing all our Newhaven talent all the best with the show: Dale Donohue (alumni), Jaz Hendry (alumni), Elsa Osatutey, Rebecca Slavin (alumni), Phoebe Helps, Kerryn Lockhart (Voice Teacher), Matilda Abraham Williams, Jude Fisher, Finn Farley, Finn Campbell Walker, Nissa Campbell Walker, Jess Purtle (alumni) and Elaine Epifano (Teacher) playing woodwind in the band.

Book your tickets

AFLW Players Visit 

On Tuesday, 20 May 2025, Newhaven College had the privilege of hosting Melbourne AFLW players Tyla Hanks, Eliza McNamara, Ryleigh Wotherspoon and Lily Johnson. 

During a 45-minute Q&A session, students had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the players’ experiences in elite sport, their pathways to the AFLW, and insights into training, teamwork and resilience. The students asked a variety of insightful questions, with the Melbourne Demon fans being particularly excited. The players shared insights into their journeys to the AFLW, as well as the importance of training, teamwork and resilience. They spoke about the value of confidence, inclusion, perseverance and having a go. 

We thank Tyla, Eliza, Ryleigh and Lily for generously sharing their time and stories with our Year 3 and 4 school community.

Cath Huther & Jaclyn Clark

Divisional Cross Country

Hundreds of students lined up for the Divisional Cross Country, held at the Stony Creek Racecourse on 22 May. Our school was proudly represented across all age groups, with some outstanding performances on the day.

A major highlight came from the 12/13-year-old boys' race, where our team dominated the leaderboard. Jett Fawaz powered to a brilliant 1st place, with strong finishes from Izaac Naarden (8th), Zen Dalli (9th), and Alfie Russo (11th).

In the 12/13-year-old girls’ category, Dae Anderson ran a determined race to finish 5th, while in the 11-year-old boys’ event, Noah Hollings secured a 10th place finish. Bridget Doig also impressed in the 9/10-year-old girls’ race, placing 5th.

Congratulations to all runners for their fantastic efforts and for representing our school with pride and determination. These students will represent the school at Regional Cross Country in June.

Jaclyn Clark

Junior School PE and Sports Teacher

Junior School House Cross Country 

All Junior School students took part in our recent Cross Country event with great enthusiasm and determination. The sun was shining, the track was set and our students gave it their all while being cheered on by their peers, staff and families. A special thanks to our Year 11 students who did a fantastic job assisting and encouraging the younger runners. It was a wonderful display of house spirit and participation. Every student embraced the challenge and celebrated their achievements, whether big or small.

The Junior School Cross Country saw a thrilling finish. Congratulations to Bridget Doig and Levi Naarden (House Captains), who accepted the trophy on behalf of McHaffie, who came out on top with 150 points, followed by Sambell (127), Bass (125), and Clarke (111). 

Bridget will represent Newhaven College in the Regional Cross Country event on 5 June.

Cath Huther & Jaclyn Clark

Years 5/6 House Cross Country

On Thursday 15 May, our Year 5/6 students took to the course for the annual Cross-Country event, and what an exciting day it was. The races were packed with determination and some thrilling finishes, particularly in the 12/13 Boys category, where the competition was incredibly tight right to the finish line.

Congratulations to all participants for their fantastic effort, and a special well done to the students who went on to represent Newhaven College at the Division Cross Country event held on Thursday 22 May.

We are proud to share their results:

11 Year Olds

Boys: 1st – Cooper Bennett; 2nd – Fletcher Hennessey; 3rd – Noah Hollings; 4th – Leith Cameron; 5th – Rorey Filsell; 6th – Sam Martindale

Girls: 1st – Evelyn McCabe; 2nd – Chelsea Chambers; 3rd – Evie Felstead; 4th – Eden Hallas; 5th – Gabrielle Titmarsh; 6th – Olivia Clark

12/13 Year Olds

Boys: 1st – Jett Fawaz; 2nd – Alfie Russo; 2nd – Zen Dalli (tie); 4th – Izaac Naarden; 5th – James Evans; 6th – Miles Leary

Girls: 1st – Dae Anderson; 2nd – Grace Bailey; 3rd – Isla McGregor; 4th – Violet Turner; 5th – Molly Baud

SEISA Golf

On Thursday, May 8, a small group of keen Newhaven College students proudly represented the school at the inaugural SEISA Golf Competition held at the picturesque Warragul Country Club. Players were required to play in groups comprised of students from multiple schools and all Newhaven players showed courtesy and encouragement towards their fellow golfers throughout the day.

Congratulations to Harry Bentley, Kai Cashman (Year 10), Brynn Chandler, Jesse Moschetti (Year 9) and Thomas Simon (Year 7) for their outstanding efforts. Each student played with determination and represented Newhaven College with pride. 

Well done, team!

Lachlan Gale

Round 1 - Victorian Schools MTB Series

The Newhaven College Mountain Bike Team has kicked off the 2025 season in spectacular fashion, with an impressive 40 students from Prep to Year 10 taking part in Round 1 of the AusCycling Victorian Schools XC MTB Series, held at Dromana College.

Students travelled from across the Bass Coast to compete in this exciting cross-country mountain biking event. With perfect weather and a buzzing atmosphere, the event saw a wonderful mix of experienced riders and enthusiastic first-timers proudly representing Newhaven College.

There were some outstanding individual performances on the day:

• Hamish Dakers-Hock made a strong return to racing, securing a 3rd place podium finish in the Under 17 Boys category.

• Lucy Thompson continued her dominant form with a 1st place finish in the Under 15 Girls Novice. Known as “Miss Consistent,” Lucy remains a role model for our younger riders.

• Evelyn McCabe gave a determined performance to take 3rd place in the Under 13 Girls Novice.

• Eden Bennett, competing in her very first race, achieved an incredible 1st place in the Under 11 Girls Novice – a remarkable debut!

Congratulations also to Will Walker (4th place, Under 11 Boys Novice) and Maxen Mills (4th place, Under 15 Boys Novice) for their strong results in highly competitive fields.

The day was a great celebration of teamwork, resilience, and school spirit. A huge thank you to Coach Tom Basterfield, staff, and our wonderful parent community for their continued support and encouragement.

Newhaven College Equestrian Team 

Semester One has seen a super start for the Newhaven College Equestrian Team. Competition started with the Petstock Interschools Show Jumping with Mabel Richardson and Isla Mclean competing. Isla competed her new Off the Track Thoroughbred Yulong Emperor in the Progressive class. They competed in a class of 53 riders with sweet rounds but pulled a couple of rails to be out of the placings.

Mabel and her horse Leo stepped up a grade to compete in the Improvers in a class of 40 combinations to ride clear rounds to finish in 7^th place in the championship.

This success was quickly followed up at the Petstock Interschool state championships with Isla McLean, Mabel Richardson and Grace Bailey representing Newhaven College in a week long festival of interschool competition.

Isla rode Ollie in the Combined Training 80 coming fourth in a huge field and exposed Yulong Emperor to another charged environment in the Combined Training 95cm class.

Mabel and Leo had terrific rounds to make it to the Jump Off in the Intermediate 80cm Show Jumping Class with winning times but a couple of rails put them out of the placings.

Grace Bailey riding two ponies Rachem Ezekial and Nilton Special Effects in the Preparatory Dressage had phenomenal success walking away with Champion and Reserve Champion in that event. 

The team are now looking forward to the next team training day on the long weekend in June. Riders who own their own ponies are welcome to join the equestrian team’s activities both in competition and training. If you would like to participate with your pony, please contact Mrs. Price or one of the NHC Equestrian Team.

Amanda Price

Surf Independent Schools Team Titles 

In May, two teams from our college competed in the Independent Schools Teams Titles held at Smiths Beach. Our mixed team faced strong competition and, despite a valiant effort, narrowly missed out on a finals spot. Meanwhile, our all-female team surfed impressively in challenging conditions and claimed victory for the second consecutive year. 

Congratulations to all students for their dedication, especially during Wednesday training sessions – you’ve made the college proud!

Ben Clark

Head of Surf Academy