From the Executive Principal
It has been a truly joyous week across Christian College Geelong, with students and staff embracing a wide range of experiences, celebrations, and opportunities for connection.
Across all campuses, Reconciliation Week was observed with great enthusiasm and reflection. Students engaged in a variety of activities designed to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, fostering respect, awareness, and a commitment to reconciliation. It was wonderful to see our community come together to celebrate culture and strengthen cross-cultural understanding.
At the Senior School, students marked Careers Week with great enthusiasm. A highlight of the week was the opportunity to hear from inspiring alumni guest speakers who shared their post-school journeys and offered valuable insights into diverse career pathways. The careers expo provided students with practical information and connections, while the careers dress-up day added a fun and creative dimension, with students (and staff) showcasing career aspirations.
Meanwhile, our Junior School campuses and libraries joined in the nationwide celebration of National Simultaneous Storytime. Millions of children across Australia read the same book at the same time, creating a shared literary experience. This year’s story, “Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller” by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, captured our imagination. I also enjoyed spending some time at Junior School learning how to draw the character Luna Roo with instructions from illustrator Jake A. Minton. It was a joyful celebration of reading, creativity, and the power of storytelling.
Student engagement in civic life continued to flourish, with Surf Coast Year 6 and Senior School Year 11 students travelling to Canberra this week to deepen their understanding of Australia’s political system and national identity. Back on campus, I had the pleasure of observing a group of our Year 12 Politics students participate in a dynamic Question-and-Answer session with Bev McArthur MP, Member of the Victorian Legislative Council. We were also delighted to welcome alumnus John McClure, who is currently studying at the University of Melbourne and working part-time in Ms McArthur’s office. It was inspiring to witness our students engaging in thoughtful discussion and lively debate, demonstrating both confidence and critical thinking.
The week has also been filled with a wide range of co-curricular activities and sporting achievements. Students competed in a Cross-Campus Chess Tournament, showcasing strategic thinking and focus. Our teams also represented the College in interschool debating, as well as GISSA and SSAV competitions in golf, AFL, and cross-country running. Many of our students shone on the sports field, demonstrating skill, teamwork, and determination. In addition, our early morning Elevate Basketball Coaching sessions are very popular, providing students with excellent opportunities to develop their skills before the school day begins.
All in all, it has been a week that truly reflects the vibrant life of Christian College Geelong, marked by learning, celebration, service, and achievement. I hope you enjoy the updates in this week’s Vine.
Dr Mathilda Joubert, Executive Principal
Prep Bible Presentations
What a truly special and meaningful time we shared this week with our Prep students and their families during their Bible Presentation.
It was such a joy and pleasure to gift each student their very own Bible. A moment filled with so much excitement, curiosity, and significance for all.
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105 NLT
The Bible is more than just a book, it is a collection of stories that tell us about who God is, His love, His faithfulness, and His heart for each one of us. These stories help to lead, guide and encourage us in life, shining a light for us to walk in and experience all the amazing things that God has planned for us.
As our Preps begin to explore all these stories during devotions, activities and Christian Education lessons, my hope and prayer is that they will discover God’s love and promises and that they would find the amazing and wonderful things He says about each of them.
As they grow, learn, and begin to ask big questions about faith and life, we pray that these Bibles will continue to reveal God’s truth and bring blessing to each student and their families. I can’t wait to hear all the wonderful and exciting stories that come from their readings, and the stories that they will tell.
What a privilege it is to be a part of this adventure of discovering God and who He is.
Blessings,
Arze Painter, Chaplain
What’s Happening at Junior School?
Term 2 Week 7 – Reconciliation Week
Tuesday 2 June: Prep Victoria Police Incursion
Tuesday 2 June: Lunchtime Concert, 1.00-1.30pm
Wednesday 3 June: Prep Fire Rescue Victoria Incursion, Session 2
Friday 5 June: Assembly, 2B Class Item
Friday 5 June: World Environmental Day
Friday 5 June: Prep Community Helper Talks
Friday 5 June: Year 3 Aquatic Program
Term 2 Week 8
Monday 8 June: King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday 9 June: Student Chapel Services
Tuesday 9 June: Parent Prayer Group, 3pm, Chaplain’s Office
Wednesday 10 June: Thank a First Responder Day
Thursday 11 June: Year 2 Excursion, National Wool Museum
Friday 12 June: Year 3 Aquatic Program Session 4
Friday 12 June: Prep Discovery Learning, 9.15am-12.10pm
Friday 12 June: Combined Strings at Bellarine Campus, 9:00am – 2:00pm
Term 2 Week 9
Tuesday 16 June: Year 2G String Celebration Concert, 11.30am-12.00pm
Tuesday 16 June: Lunchtime Concert, 1.10pm-1.30pm
Wednesday 17 June: Year 4 Ancient China Celebration Day
Friday 19 June : Assembly, 2G Class Item
Friday 19 June: Year 3 Aquatic Program, Session 5
Friday 19 June: Final day Term 2, 3.25pm Dismissal
Farewell to an Old Tree
Junior School will farewell a long‑standing palm tree at the front of the school (right of front gates entrance) on Monday, 1st June. Following horticultural advice, the tree must be removed due to an incurable disease (pink rot and fusarium) that is affecting its growth. The Phoenix Palm is scheduled for removal from 9.30am on Monday. Please note that there may be limited access to the front entrance during this time.
Carla Dunlop, Deputy Head of Campus
Our Visit to Geelong Village
Last week, we had the opportunity to visit Geelong Village to deliver the socks we fundraised during our Junior School Silly Sock Day in Term 1.
We were given a tour and shown all the different clothing packs that are sent out to families. These packs are filled with shirts, pants, jumpers, and accessories.
They shared with us that most of the time, the packs don’t include socks because they don’t receive many sock donations. They were very happy and thankful that we were able to donate over 400 pairs of socks. This means they can now include a pair of socks in each pack for families.
We also learnt that over 400 packs of clothing are given to families every month, and they really appreciate the donations they receive from the community. We are so proud to be part of helping our community.
Thank you to everyone who donated socks and supported Geelong Village.
Zahil N and Tina G , Year 4 Students
Fire Rescue Victoria Visits Prep
Our Prep students were very excited to welcome the firefighters from Fire Rescue Victoria - Belmont for the first part of our Fire Safety Incursion!
During the visit, the students learned about the important role community helpers, such as firefighters, play in keeping us safe. We discussed the many people who work in our community to help and care for others each day, and why their jobs are so valuable. We are grateful for the services they provide and for the care, bravery, and support they show. Their hard work helps keep our community safe, healthy, and connected.
The firefighters shared valuable fire safety tips, including what to do in an emergency and how families can stay prepared at home. The students were especially excited to receive some very important homework of creating a fire safety plan with their families to help keep everyone safe. We encourage all families to complete this together and discuss safe meeting places and emergency exits.
There were many thoughtful questions, engaged listeners, and lots of excitement throughout the session. We are already counting down to Part 2 of the incursion in a couple of weeks, when the same firefighters will return to show the Prep students inside the fire truck and demonstrate the fire hose. We can’t wait for another exciting and educational visit!
Rachael Whelan
Library News
We have had a busy week in the Library as we have been sharing books at each year level that commemorate Reconciliation Week. We have enjoyed rich discussions and insights through a variety of fabulous and inspiring books.
Our clubs have been in full swing this week with Knitting Club, Uno Club and Puzzle Club proving very popular. Our Year 4 Library monitors have been diligent at Lunchtime borrowing books out and helping in the Library.
This week we were involved in Simultaneous Story Time, along with schools from across Australia, as we read Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller. This book was selected to excite students as Australia heads into the World Cup in June. It has proven a popular book with students who enjoyed the humour, rhyme and uniquely Australian characters in the text.
Happy Reading
Deanne Elliss
From Toasters to Toothbrushes
Ove the past few weeks, our Year 2 students have been busy exploring the fascinating world of Inventions through their IDL unit, and their enthusiasm has been infectious! Each student selected an invention to investigate, choosing from everyday items such as the toaster, refrigerator, light bulb, kettle and toothbrush.
To begin their journey, students worked with their families at home to gather initial facts and spark early curiosity. Back at school, they expanded their research using a range of texts, videos and digital resources, developing a deeper understanding of how their chosen invention works and why it is important.
After drafting their informative writing, students took on a new creative challenge: publishing their work by redesigning a cereal box. This unique format encouraged them to think imaginatively about how to present information while still being clear and engaging. The final products were colourful, clever and full of personality. They are a wonderful showcase of both their learning and creativity.
Anna Kattwinkel
Exploring Ancient Greece at the Hellenic Museum
Our Year 3 students recently enjoyed an exciting excursion to the Hellenic Museum in Melbourne, where they stepped back in time to discover the world of Ancient Greece.
Throughout the guided tour, students explored authentic artefacts, examined ancient pottery, and learned the legends of the gods and goddesses of Greece. The museum educators guided students through interactive sessions, helping them understand the importance of mythology, storytelling and the role of gods and goddesses in ancient culture.
The Year 3s were enthusiastic participants, asking thoughtful questions and making connections to their current studies. During their guided tour, students observed intricate sculptures and artworks, sparking conversations about symbolism, history and the legacy of Ancient Greece.
Throughout our studies, the students have been impressed by how much of our modern world – including language, architecture and democracy – has been influenced by this ancient civilisation. The excursion provided a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding in an authentic setting, while building their curiosity and appreciation for history. Their excellent behaviour and eagerness to learn were commendable, and they represented our school with pride. We finished off our excursion with some Greek puzzles and a play at the playground in Flagstaff Gardens. Thankfully Zeus did not throw any thunderbolts, and we had some lovely weather for our time in Melbourne! Well done to our Year 3 students and thank you to our helpers on the day.
Laura Hollingsworth
Weird, Wacky & Wonderful Sports Club
On Monday lunchtimes this term, there have been some unusual sights on the oval and in the gym at Junior School! Since the launch of the ‘Weird, Wacky & Wonderful Sports Club’ by Mr Morrison and Mr Boyd, it has been great to see so many students attending and trying out new and unfamiliar sports.
This term, we have focused on Ultimate Frisbee for the Year 3 and Year 4 students, and Crab Soccer for our Prep–Year 2 students. The focus has been on learning the rules of the games, demonstrating teamwork and sportsmanship, and most importantly, having fun and sharing a laugh with friends while developing new sporting skills.
We look forward to introducing a range of new sports to Junior School students on upcoming Mondays throughout the year, including Quidditch, Gaelic football and Nuke ’Em volleyball, to name just a few!
Damien Morrison
Scholastic Book Club News
Issue 4 of Scholastic Book Club has been distributed to students and orders should be placed online by Thursday, June 4.
Our payment method is via LOOP either using the mobile app or the desktop site which can be found here.
Please do not send cash as we are unable to process cash payments.
Thank you for your assistance and support of Book Club.
Violet Novacevski
Sorry Day and Reconciliation week
Earlier this week, Christian College acknowledged National Sorry Day, observed on Tuesday, 26 May. National Sorry Day is a day of reflection and acknowledgement that recognises the Stolen Generations — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families, communities and cultures between the mid-1800s and the 1980s. It encourages reflection, understanding and continued commitment toward healing and reconciliation, while honouring the strength, resilience and lived experiences of Stolen Generations survivors.
This week also marks the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, observed from Wednesday, 27 May to Wednesday, 3 June. The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2026 is All In — a call for all Australians to commit to reconciliation every single day. All In reminds us that reconciliation is a shared national responsibility and not solely the responsibility of First Nations peoples. Reconciliation will not happen by itself, and it will not happen without all of us.
Our RAP Committee has provided the College with activities and learning opportunities across National Reconciliation Week. The week provides an important opportunity for our College community to deepen understanding, build respect, and strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we learn, reflect and commit to action, we continue seeking to be “All In” for reconciliation.
Wathaurong Co Op will also be hosting Reconciliation in the Park 2026 – ALL IN. The event is a time to gather, share space and walk together. Learning from one another and lean into the strength of community.
Please see link below for more information.
Reconciliation in the Park | Wathaurong
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, processing difficult memories, or needs support during Reconciliation Week please contact the free and confidential hotlines below.
- 13YARN: Call 13 92 76 for confidential one-on-one yarning with a Lifeline-trained Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.
- Brother to Brother: Call 1800 435 799 for a 24/7 crisis line tailored for Aboriginal men.
- Yarning SafeNStrong: Call 1800 959 563 for culturally safe wellbeing and healing support
TheWellbeing Team
Calling all Coding Wizards
Are you ready to unlock your inner tech wizard? 🧙♂️✨ We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge, open to all students with a knowledge of coding.
What is it?
The Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge is an international competition where students will tackle fun programming puzzles using their coding and algorithmic thinking skills. The coding challenge requires students to have a working knowledge of Turtle Blocky, Python, C#, Java or VB. More information can be found at https://www.bebras.uk
When and Where?
Date: Tuesday June 17, 2026
Location: On Campus/online
Duration: 45 mins
How to Sign Up:
Email Ms Bergin at s.bergin@ccg.vic.edu.au before Friday June 12. Please indicate the division you want to attempt from the list below.
Divisions are based on skill, not age. There are four divisions:
- Novice – For students who are new to block-based programming, or who have recently started learning to code using blocks.
- Explorer – For students who are confident using block-based programming and have experience creating programs using blocks.
- Navigator – New to text-based programming. For students who have recently started coding using a text-based programming language and are developing their skills by creating small programs.
- Trailblazer– Experienced text-based programming. For students who are confident programmers using a text-based programming language.
Practice challenges, including information on block-based and text-based challenges can be found on the UK Bebras website
Sophie Bergin
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.
Godspell the Musical – Senior School Production on Stage June 5 & 6
R.W. Gibson Centre – Christian College Senior Campus
Tickets on sale! 3 shows - 2 evening shows nearly sold out
Friday June 5 – 7:00pm
Saturday June 6 – 2:00pm & 5:30pm
Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/DKBJO
Featuring a student cast of Yrs 10,11,12 and a band of students and staff who have been rehearsing since the start of the school year.
Prepare ye for the timeless tale of friendship, loyalty and love in a masterful retelling of the original sensation with dazzling contemporary arrangements and references. Godspell, 2012 Revised Version, featuring songs by Stephen Schwartz, (known for the Broadway hits WICKED and PIPPIN), uses song, dance and storytelling to retell the passion story and parables of the gospels. Filled with high spirited musical styles ranging from pop to vaudeville, this theatrical celebration is a reminder that kindness, tolerance, and love should live on vibrantly.
Our audience will be treated to a unique presentation of this well-known production, one that will showcase the exceptional skills of our students and the creative expertise of our production staff team. This dynamic show is also supported by a crew of staff, students and parents who will ensure that the onstage presentation is a memorable experience.
Our College is proud to present Godspell! Please assist us to promote our show to your families, friends and the broader community. Please find a poster attached which can be emailed as a digital attachment or printed for display as far and wide as you like!!
Tickets are now on sale for this boutique theatre experience on Trybooking, we look forward to welcoming our audiences!
Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/DKBJO
Fiona Gardner
