From The Executive Principal
As we reach the end of another remarkable term, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary breadth of opportunities our students have embraced over the past months. Term 2 has been filled with learning, challenge, creativity, service, adventure and celebration. Most importantly, it has been a term in which we have seen our young people continue to grow as people of character, compassion and purpose.
It is difficult to capture all that has occurred within a single newsletter article. Our sporting calendar has been as busy as ever. House Soccer, the Elevate basketball program and numerous interschool sporting competitions have enabled students to challenge themselves, represent the College with pride and learn the value of teamwork, perseverance and sportsmanship.
Our community has been inspired by the outstanding performances of students in Godspell, a production that showcased remarkable talent, dedication and teamwork. Students have travelled far and wide, from the Canberra Trip to the Indonesia Study Tour and the Our World journeys through Central Australia, each experience broadening perspectives and deepening understanding of the diverse world in which we live.
We have gathered as a community to celebrate Anzac Day, Reconciliation Week, Mother's Day, cross-campus music nights and special assemblies. Thank you to all who joined us for these special occasions where we build community together. Across the College, students have participated in a vast range of camps, excursions and farm stays that have enriched their learning and fostered independence, resilience and connection.
Our commitment to authentic learning experiences has continued through opportunities such as the Forensic Science Partnership with Deakin University, providing students with valuable insights into future pathways and real-world applications of their studies. We have also enjoyed reconnecting with former students through an Alumni Reunion and special Careers Week visits, celebrating the enduring bonds that make our College community so special.
This weekend, we celebrate with our Year 11 students and families at the Presentation Balls, a significant milestone in the life of our young people. Next week, our staff will participate in a three-day retreat, a valuable opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving, learning and renewal as we continue our shared mission of supporting every student to flourish. And on Thursday, our College Prefects will depart on a 12-day immersion experience to Timor Leste. Our College has enjoyed a long and meaningful partnership with communities in Viqueque, and this journey represents another chapter in our commitment to service learning, and global citizenship. I look forward to joining in on this transformative experience this year.
When I consider everything that has taken place this term, I am reminded of the extraordinary opportunities available within one school community. Each experience – whether on the stage, in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the Australian outback, overseas, or in service to others – plays a role in shaping young people who are capable, confident and compassionate.
We see the greatest growth in our students when they develop a genuine other-centred outlook; when they begin to understand that their gifts, talents and education are not simply for personal success, but for making a positive difference in the lives of others. These experiences help nurture empathy, leadership, resilience and a commitment to contributing to the common good. They are helping to form young people who will leave our College ready to engage with the world with both courage and humility.
Thank you to our families for your ongoing partnership and support. The encouragement, care and guidance you provide at home are critical in helping your young people thrive. Together, we continue to create an environment in which students can grow, learn and become the very best versions of themselves.
I wish all students and families a restful and enjoyable holiday break. May the coming weeks provide opportunities to recharge, spend quality time together and enjoy a well-earned change of pace.
We look forward to welcoming students back for Term 3 on Monday the 13th of July.
Dr Mathilda Joubert, Executive Principal
Half Time
As we reach the conclusion of Term Two, it is with great pride and gratitude that I reflect on what has been an exceptionally rich and rewarding term across our Prep to Year 9 campus. Our students have embraced a wide range of learning opportunities, both within and beyond the classroom, demonstrating curiosity, resilience and a commitment to striving for excellence in all that they do.
A significant highlight of the term was the Year 6 Canberra Camp. This experience provided our students with a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding of Australia’s history, government and national identity. Through visits to key national institutions and participation in thoughtfully designed programs, students engaged in authentic learning that complemented their classroom studies while also fostering independence, teamwork and personal growth.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding to our school in the amount of $45 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.
Service learning has continued to be a cornerstone of our campus culture, and our Project Care initiatives this term have been both impactful and inspiring. Students contributed to the Red Shield Appeal, supported the Timor-Leste Day of Independence, engaged thoughtfully in Reconciliation Week, recognised the dedication of our community through Thank a First Responder Day, and extended care to families in need through Our Village, previously known as Geelong Mums. These experiences not only raised awareness of important social issues but also empowered our students to see themselves as active and compassionate contributors to the wider community.
Across the term, a variety of incursions and excursions have further enriched student learning. Opportunities in academic programs, music, performance and sport have allowed students to extend their skills, explore new interests and apply their learning in real-world contexts. It has been wonderful to see students thriving in these environments, gaining confidence and celebrating their achievements.
Our Year 9 Prefects continue to play a vital leadership role on campus. Their commitment to serving their peers and modelling our school values has been evident in their ongoing initiatives and presence across campus life. A particular highlight was their recent assembly, where they spoke about the importance of a “halftime break”, an opportunity to pause, reflect and consider how each student is progressing in their pursuit of excellence. Their message encouraged all students to take ownership of their learning journey and to set purposeful goals for continued growth.
Looking ahead, we are excited to support our Year 8 students as they begin preparing to take on leadership roles within the campus. Semester Two will provide opportunities for these students to develop their leadership capabilities, ensuring a strong and confident transition into positions of responsibility as they lead the way for others.
Alongside this, we will be preparing for the next steps for our 8s and 9s. The 8s will be having a visit to the Back Creek Farm campus to learn more about this opportunity for next year and the 9s will be looking ahead to Senior School with events such as Subject Selection, where students explore what they can study as they head into their final years of schooling.
As we move into the upcoming holiday break, I encourage all members of our community to take time to rest, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends. The energy and enthusiasm shown throughout this term has been outstanding, and a well-earned pause will ensure we return refreshed and ready for a productive and successful second half of the year.
Thank you for your continued support of our campus and the many ways you contribute to our vibrant learning community.
Nicola Morrish, Head of Campus
What’s Happening at Bellarine
Term 3 Week 1
Monday 13 July: Term 3 studies commence
Monday 13 July: Year 4 camp departs for Lake Dewar
Monday 13 July: Commencement Service | 2pm
Wednesday 15 July: Year 9 Japanese Excursion to Melbourne
Wednesday 15 July: Year 4 camp returns from Lake Dewar
Thursday 16 July: Community Prayer Group, Chaplain’s Office | 3:00pm – 3:20pm
Thursday 16 July: Parent and Families Information Sessions (Held at Belmont Campus)
Term 3 Week 2
Monday 20 July: Year 3-5 Bible study group | Lunchtime
Monday 20 July: Piano scale competition | Lunchtime
Tuesday 21 July: Year 7 Immunisations
Tuesday 21 July: Year 9 VET Taster Session 1
Wednesday 22 July: Prep Discovery Learning
Wednesday 22 July: JS Faith Space | Lunchtime
Thursday 23 July: MS Faith Space | Lunchtime
Thursday 23 July: Community Prayer Group, Chaplain’s Office | 3:00pm – 3:20pm
Friday 24 July: Junior School Assembly
Friday 24 July: National Tree Day for schools
Friday 24 July: Music Excellence Scholarship applications close | Apply for a Scholarship
Year 1 Japanese
In Term 2, the Year 1 class has been learning about Kanji numbers. A Japanese picture book called ‘The 100 Floor House’ introduced how to count numbers and helped engage the students with its story.
Next, the students made their own 100 Floor House using Kanji numbers and the illustration ideas from the book. Everybody’s goal was to be able to count the numbers that they had written. When counting. It was important to put your finger on the number when you said it.
The students’ houses will stay up in the LOTE room as decorations before they are taken home next term. Well done to Year 1 on doing their best to learn Kanji numbers.
Adam Reidy
Year 4 Ancient China Day
Year 4 students celebrated their learning about Ancient China with a special activity day. Throughout the day, they took part in a range of engaging activities, including Chinese calligraphy, clay sculpting inspired by ancient warriors, and traditional Chinese games. Students also enjoyed sampling Chinese treats and watching the film Mulan.
At the end of the day, they proudly shared their learning with other classes and their parents, showcasing what they had discovered during the term. It was a memorable and enriching experience for everyone involved.
Sam Kennedy
Hayley Keogh
Year 5/6 Debate Team Update
Last night, our Debate Team competed in their second regional debate, facing a team from Clairvaux Catholic School. Christian College Bellarine took the affirmative position on the topic: “That voting in Australian elections should be voluntary.”
Our team delivered a confident and well-prepared performance. They demonstrated strong matter by presenting thoughtful, well-reasoned arguments supported by clear examples. Their manner was equally impressive, with students speaking with confidence, maintaining strong eye contact and engaging the audience effectively. In terms of method, the team showed clear organisation in their speeches and worked cohesively to build and respond to arguments throughout the debate.
A highlight of the evening was the team’s ability to deliver confident rebuttals, responding clearly and respectfully to the opposing team’s points. While we didn’t quite secure the win on this occasion, the growth and learning demonstrated were evident and commendable.
Each debate provides valuable experience, and our students are already reflecting on how they can refine their skills further. In Term 3, we will place an increased focus on cold debates, where students will practise thinking on their feet and applying their understanding of matter, manner and method in new and dynamic situations.
I am incredibly proud of Teddy, Billie, Nora and Klaudia for their commitment, teamwork and effort so far this season, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth in the term ahead
Theresa Drewer
High Performance Athlete – Geelong Ninjas Excursion
The High Performance Athlete class embraced a fresh challenge this term when they travelled to Geelong Ninjas for an immersive look at alternative training methods, a key focus of our Term 2 program. The visit pushed students beyond the familiar structure of traditional sport conditioning and introduced them to the dynamic world of obstacle‑based movement, agility circuits, and body‑weight strength challenges. At Geelong Ninjas, students explored how elite performers develop power, coordination, and mental resilience through unconventional training environments that demand quick decision‑making and total‑body control. The session highlighted the value of adaptability, showing athletes that high performance is not limited to standard gym routines but can be built through creative, playful, and highly demanding physical tasks. Many students found themselves surprised by the intensity of the obstacles, discovering new strengths while also identifying areas for growth. This excursion reinforced the Term 2 emphasis on broadening athletic development and understanding how diverse training styles can enhance performance across all sports. By stepping into a space designed to test balance, speed, grip strength, and problem‑solving, the class gained a deeper appreciation for the versatility required of modern athletes, making the Geelong Ninjas experience both memorable and transformative.
Kelly O’Neil
Year 8 Reconciliation Incursion – Scott Darlow
On Thursday 11th June, students across both our Highton and Bellarine campuses had the privilege of participating in an unforgettable incursion with Scott Darlow, one of Australia’s leading Indigenous singer-songwriters. The experience provided an incredibly enriching opportunity for students to engage deeply with First Nations history, culture, and storytelling.
With guitar in hand and a powerful presence, Scott captivated audiences at both campuses from the moment he began. His performances were filled with energy, passion, and authenticity, as he shared a selection of his original songs—each one reflecting themes of identity, resilience, truth, and pride. His music not only entertained but also educated, offering meaningful insights into the lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Between performances, Scott shared his remarkable personal story. His honest and engaging storytelling brought history to life, weaving together personal experiences with broader cultural and historical perspectives. Students were encouraged to reflect on Australia’s past while developing a deeper appreciation for the strength, diversity, and richness of First Nations cultures.
The sessions at both Highton and Bellarine were more than performances—they were powerful learning experiences. Students were highly engaged, listening intently, asking thoughtful questions, and responding with genuine curiosity and respect. The impact of Scott’s message was clear, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
We are incredibly grateful to Scott Darlow for visiting both campuses and sharing his voice, his journey, and his culture with our school community. It was an inspiring and educational experience that will stay with our students long into the future.
Martin Costello
Year 8 Students Bring History to Life with Mock Protest
Our Year 8 students recently staged a lively mock protest on the basketball courts as part of their study of Footprints on the Moon by Lorraine Marwood. Stepping into 1969 Australia, they explored key issues of the time such as war and peace, women’s rights, the environment and conscription.
With creative signs and confident voices, students shared messages that still resonate today. Calls for peace, gender equality, and environmental protection sparked meaningful reflection on how these issues continue to shape our world.
The whole school gathered to support, turning the event into a powerful shared learning experience. This hands-on activity helped students connect literature to real-world ideas, building their understanding of both history and the ongoing relevance of standing up for change.
Joanne Lowe
Fuelling Active Bodies — Year 9 Principles of Training
Year 9 elective class Principles of Training wrapped up their term with a session in the Food Studies classroom. The focus was on fuelling our bodies well before, during, and after physical activity. Students prepared a nut-free, school-friendly protein ball snack recipe as a hands on opportunity to explore key nutrition concepts, including macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and how both play an important role in supporting performance and recovery. The protein balls were well received, and students showed great enthusiasm discussing alternative ingredients that could be used to achieve a similar nutritional outcome, extending their understanding of food processes as well as nutrient goals and requirements for an active adolescent.
Fiona Wright
Year 9 Music Elective
Year 9 students finished their Music studies on a high note this week, exploring pitch and rhythm through the colourful and engaging world of boomwhackers. Working collaboratively, students developed their understanding of musical patterns, timing, and ensemble performance while creating music in a fun and interactive way. The energy and enthusiasm in the room were fantastic, providing a memorable conclusion to their Music journey this semester.
Molly Hanson
Drama in Action: A Semester of Creativity and Performance
This semester has been an exciting and vibrant time in Drama, with students across multiple year levels bringing stories to life through imaginative performance and collaboration.
Our Year 5 students explored the much-loved picture story book Where the Wild Things Are. Working in small groups, students each focused on a different section of the story, developing their skills in teamwork, characterisation and staging. The highlight of their work came when these individual scenes were brought together as a complete performance, beautifully presenting the entire story to an audience of Year 3 students. It was a wonderful example of how collaborative effort can create a cohesive and engaging theatrical experience.
Meanwhile, our Year 6 students captivated audiences with their original ‘Shoe Stories’, performed in the Auditorium for their families. Inspired by the picture book Grandma’s Treasured Shoes, students were challenged to imagine the stories that a pair of shoes might tell if they could speak. This unit encouraged creativity, empathy and storytelling, resulting in thoughtful, imaginative and often humorous performances. It was a delight to see students confidently sharing their work on stage with such enthusiasm.
Continuing the picture story book theme, our Year 7 and 8 Drama elective students also worked in small groups to transform their chosen books into performance pieces. Each group selected a story and brought it to life in unique and engaging ways. Audiences were treated to a variety of performances, including We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, while familiar favourites such as Bluey and Moana also made an appearance for a very appreciative Year 2 audience. These performances showcased not only the students’ creativity, but also their growing skills in interpretation, staging and audience engagement.
I am incredibly proud of all students for their dedication, teamwork and creative expression throughout the semester. Their willingness to take risks and bring stories to life on stage has been truly inspiring. Well done to everyone involved!
Victoria Kent, Deputy Head of Campus
Big Science Competition 2026
Earlier in the term we had a variety of students participate in the Australian Science Innovations Big Science Competition, an online multiple choice science test which challenges students across a wide array of science topics and scenarios. We are proud of our students for stepping outside of their comfort zone and willingly challenging themselves. We congratulate Clancy O and Billie G who both achieved an award in the top 15% nationally, along with Brianna B, Jamison B, and Fin M for each attaining an award in the top 25% nationally.
Sophie Maye
Chaplain’s Message
As we come to the holiday break, we do so carrying many stories from the term that has been. Some are filled with joy and celebration, others remain unfinished, and many are the quieter stories that can easily go unnoticed.
Throughout the term, our theme across both student and staff faith spaces has been Stories of Significance, exploring the parables of Jesus. These stories, drawn from everyday life, were used by Jesus to communicate and teach the profound truths of God’s Kingdom.
The parables of the mustard seed and the yeast (Matthew 13:31–33) are particularly fitting as we reflect on the term that has been and look ahead with hope. Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God often begins in small ways – a tiny seed planted in the ground or a small amount of yeast mixed through dough. Both seem insignificant at first glance, yet they hold extraordinary potential for growth, transformation and expansion.
Here at Bellarine, we have witnessed many of these mustard-seed moments throughout the term as staff and students alike have sought to live out our College motto, Seek First the Kingdom of God. Whether through acts of kindness, perseverance, service, encouragement or growth, these moments may seem small, but they are the very seeds from which character, faith, belonging and purpose grow.
As the term draws to a close there is opportunity to reflect and recognise what has been planted, nurtured and strengthened over these past months. At the same time, looking forward with anticipation and hope, trusting that God continues to work in ways we cannot always see.
Over the holiday break, may you experience moments of rest and restoration, and may you be reminded that there is often great significance in the small moments faithfully cultivated in good soil.
Ruth Buscombe, Chaplain
Wellbeing Shout-Out: Term 3 Regional Parenting Calendar
Parents and carers wanting to better understand or connect with their child(ren), or perhaps needing some reassurance and support?
You might like to take a look at the Term 3 Regional Parenting Calendar, which offers a variety of opportunities for parents and carers of children aged 0–18 years. There are one-off sessions through to five-week programs, where parents and carers have the opportunity to engage with practical strategies and supports to add to their toolkit.
These sessions offer strategies to support greater connection and communication, manage challenges and behaviours, build your child’s confidence and resilience, or develop an understanding of childhood anxiety.
Acknowledging that it takes a village to raise our wonderful children, these programs are offered by Geelong Regional Parenting Service, MELI, CatholicCare Victoria, and Drummond Street Services.
If this sounds like something you would be interested in, please take a look at the attached brochure below and book your spot today.
I wish families a restful and restorative term break.
Angie Russell, Student Wellbeing Officer
Attention Year 5 Families
We are delighted to share with our community the success of this year’s Year 6 Canberra Trip. Our students represented our school with pride, enthusiasm, and exemplary behaviour throughout the experience. The trip provided a rich opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of Australia’s history, government, and national identity through engaging, hands-on learning. Our Year 6 students also looked wonderful in their commemorative jumpers!
With such a positive experience behind us, we are already excitedly planning for the 2027 Year 6 Canberra Trip. We look forward to offering another enriching and inspiring opportunity for our future Year 6 students.
As part of our preparations, we are thrilled to share some exciting news for our current Year 5 students…
Current Year 5 students are invited to take part in a creative design initiative for the 2027 Year 6 jumper!
This is a wonderful opportunity for students to contribute to a meaningful keepsake that will mark the final year of their journey through the primary years. We encourage students to get creative and design a concept that reflects school spirit and incorporates our College colours.
Design Options
Students may choose one of the following styles:
- Sash Style: A diagonal design across the jumper
- Banner Style: A horizontal design across the top, middle, or bottom of the jumper
Submission Details
- Designs should be hand-drawn
- Submissions are to be given to Year 5 Homeroom Teachers
- Due date: End of Week 5, Term 3
Please note, this is a completely optional activity, but we encourage all interested students to have a go and showcase their creativity! Designs will then be shared across our campuses, before a final decision is made in consultation with the team at Indigo Wolf, who so wonderfully produced our jumper this year.
We look forward to seeing the ideas our students come up with and to continuing the excitement as we plan towards Canberra 2027.
Julie Shutie, Director of Teaching and Learning
Partner With Purpose: Golf Day Sponsorship Opportunity
We are pleased to invite members of the Christian College Geelong community to partner with us as sponsors of the 2026 Christian College Geelong Golf Tournament. This special event will be held on Friday, 16th of October 2026 at The Sands, Torquay, and will bring together families, alumni, local businesses, and community members for a day of connection, engagement, and shared purpose. Importantly, funds raised will support students experiencing financial hardship, helping provide access to a life-changing Christian education.
We warmly welcome expressions of interest from families or businesses who may wish to sponsor the event at any level, with a range of opportunities available to suit different levels of involvement. Sponsorship offers a meaningful way to give back, while also providing an opportunity to showcase your business, build valuable connections, and support our mission of transforming lives through the gift of education. For further information or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tennille McInnes, Foundation Manager/Alumni Officer, at t.mcinnes@ccg.vic.edu.au.
Tennille McInnes, Foundation Manager/Alumni Officer
CCG New Parents and Families Program – an Exciting Initiative!
In 2026, we’re excited to launch our Parents & Families Program, a new initiative designed to bring our community even closer together across all Campuses and Kindergartens.
This program is all about strengthening relationships, creating a genuine sense of belonging, and supporting meaningful opportunities for families to get involved in College life. In the video below, Executive Principal, Dr Mathilda Joubert, provides more details. Membership is open to all parents, guardians and grandparents of students enrolled at Christian College Geelong, including Kindergarten families, and continues for as long as a member has a child attending the relevant campus.
If you would like to join the P&F Program straight away, please click here. You will need to complete your details, upload your WWCC number, and nominate yourself if you are interested in a leadership role.
From special events to fundraising, volunteering on camps, excursions, and other campus‑based activities, there will be plenty of ways for families to contribute, connect, and make a difference in the student experience at your selected Campus.
An information session will be held on Thursday 16 July at 1:30 pm at the Belmont (Junior School Campus) for families from all Christian College campuses who would like to learn more. To help us with planning, please register here if you wish to attend.
CCG News and Events
In recent weeks we have created a News/Events carousel down the bottom of the CCG website homepage with information and links covering many aspects of life at Christian College Geelong. Right now, you’ll find fabulous picture galleries of Godspell and the Year 6 Canberra adventure, a fantastic video covering the first week of the recent Indonesian study tour, a quick link to our Scholarships page, and more. We’ll regularly update and add to the carousel, so keep an eye out for new content in the weeks and months ahead.
Academic Excellence and Music Excellence Scholarships – Applications Open!
Applications are now open for Academic Excellence Scholarships for entry to Years 5 to 11 in 2028.
Any interested parents, guardians and families with children in Years 3 to 9 in 2026 are welcome to apply, including families who have children currently enrolled at Christian College.
Applications for Academic Excellence scholarships close on August 6.
Also open to both Christian College families, and families with children attending other schools, are our Music Excellence Scholarships. These are open for students entering Years 5 to 12 in 2027 or 2028.
Applications for all Christian College scholarships can be made via our website. Click here to visit our Scholarships page, where you’ll find more information about all the scholarships we offer. From there you can click on the individual scholarship tiles for more specific details, and to apply.
