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
From The Head of Campus
Another busy week of learning inside our classrooms and another diverse range of co-curricular experiences being undertaken by our students outside of class. We have had the Careers Expo, Careers Education sessions during morning House Group, the Senior Canberra trip for Politics and History students, GISSA Cross Country, GISSA Senior Girls AFL and the Year 10 Outdoor Education Arapiles Climbing program.
The Careers Expo comes at an important time as our senior students consider their post-school pathways. We have students who will continue tertiary studies in Geelong, others who will move out of home to go to university in another city, state or even country. There are students who will go into an apprenticeship, who will attend TAFE or move directly into the workforce.
The Expo provided a valuable snapshot of many of these options in a supportive setting, with follow-up offered by our own Careers Practitioners. Learning in the classroom helps students build the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise their strengths and areas of interest, and widen their choice of pathways. At the same time, the co-curricular experiences are developing resilience, leadership and social skills, all of which support wellbeing and contribute to strong character development.
We will continue to offer these experiences to shape young people who are not only prepared for their own futures, but ready to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Elissa Huddart, Head of Campus
What’s Happening at Senior School?
Term 2 Week 7
Monday 1 to 5 June: Production Week – Godspell
Monday 1 to 5 June: GAT Preparation week
Wednesday 3 & Thursday 4 June: Godspell Dress Rehearsals
Wednesday 3 June: Year 11 Presentation Ball Rehearsal
Thursday 4 to Saturday 6 June: Senior Musical
Term 2 Week 8
Monday 8 June: Public Holiday – King’s Birthday
Tuesday 9 June: House Soccer begins
Wednesday 10 to Monday 15 June: Unit 1 Examinations
Wednesday 10 June: Year 11 Presentation Ball Rehearsal
Thursday 11 June: Year 10 Drama Performance Evening
Friday 12 to Monday 15 June: Year 10 Examinations
Term 2 Week 9 Tuesday 16 June: GAT Examination for Unit 3 students (No school for any other student) Wednesday 17 June: VCE and VCE VM Pathways Information Session for Year 9 and 10 families Wednesday 17 June: Year 11 Presentation Ball Rehearsal Friday 19 June: School finishes at 3.30pm Friday 19 June: Year 11 Presentation Ball Saturday 20 June: Year 11 Presentation Ball Term 2 Week 10 Monday 22 to Wednesday 24 June: CCG Staff Retreat Friday 26 May: Office closes for holidays Term 3 Week 1 Monday 13 July: Senior School Commencement Service at Middle School SAC Tuesday 14 July: Year 12 Schoolies Presentation Thursday 16 July: Senior School ID and Group Photos
Careers Week, 2026!
What an exciting and eventful week it has been! Students participated in the Careers Expo on Thursday, attended inspiring CCG alumni presentations from Monday to Wednesday, celebrated Dress for Success Day on Wednesday, and engaged in careers education sessions during House Group throughout the week, focusing on qualifications and future pathways. We hope your child took full advantage of these opportunities and gained valuable advice or insights to support their future goals, ambitions, and aspirations. Below are reflections from students who attended the alumni presentations, followed by the list of students recognised for best dressed across the various categories.
Alumni Presentation Wrap-Ups
Mark Graham (1994) by Chloe H
On Monday, Reece and I had the privilege to interview Mark Graham, a CCG Alumni from the class of 1994, who manages Magellan Projects. Mark returned to school to share his experience in the workforce and described the importance of the values instilled within him during his schooling. It was interesting to hear about his progression from two very different career choices. Mark shared how his dreams progressed from wanting to be a sports manager, to being a business owner in a commercial building company.
He also highlighted the importance of both written and verbal communication. His ability to communicate benefits him at work, as he liaises with a range of people, such as, lawyers, accountants, and builders. He shared many trials, including a lawsuit; and how he balances work and life, through swimming and communicating with his partner. Mark’s experience in retail and supply chain management was very eye opening. He discussed travelling for work before managing a business, which relates to what I endeavour to do in the future. His information shared was invaluable! Nicole Ward (nee Murnane; 1997) by Tilly A and Lulu D Nicole’s presentation was highly engaging and insightful, offering an honest and motivating account of her journey into corporate law. She spoke clearly about the importance of hard work, persistence, and taking initiative, while also emphasising the value of networking and building meaningful professional connections. Her practical advice and personal experiences made the presentation both inspiring and relatable, leaving a strong impression on us all. Jon Hoevenaars (2002) by Guy W, Emily R and Aiden B On Wednesday, I got the chance to interview Jon Hoevenaars, and he talked about live and non-live media in lots of different forms, their positives and challenges, and how his preferences changed as he got older. He also told stories about his time at school and about covering all sorts of sports, from AFL, where he commentated the rematch of the 2010 Grand Final, to tennis, where he produces original content for the Australian Open, to F1 and other motorsports. I learnt that the skill of journalism is valued by a wide variety of jobs. It allows you to analyse complex information and understand how information is interpreted. I learnt the importance of following your dreams and passions. Dress for Success School Dress-Up Day All senior students and staff had the opportunity to dress as their future selves on Wednesday as part of our Careers Week celebrations. It was wonderful to see so much creativity, humour, and ambition on display throughout the day. Congratulations to all of our prize winners and participants. Be sure to check out the photos from all events!
The Careers and Pathways Team
Prizes were awarded in the following categories:
Tracy Dawson
Mary Higgins
Senior School House Music 2026 – Congratulations!
On Thursday last week the Senior School community gathered in the Highton Middle School SAC for the 2026 Senior Campus House Music Festival Concert. It was fantastic to welcome so many parents who were able to join us in what was a very special afternoon celebrating our students. The lead up to this concert saw students, led by students, prepare 20 items. Each of the four houses prepared a whole house choir, a large ensemble (5 or more members), a small ensemble (2-5 members) and 2 solo artists, one being vocal the other instrumental. The commitment, collaboration, creative investment, and obvious student initiative to produce each item on the program was outstanding. The Senior School musicians performed a vast array of music – and every student participated by singing in their full house choir. This year’s house choirs all chose a song from the 60s. The students were supported ‘behind the scenes’ by house and music staff in many ways.
At the end of the House performances, while the adjudicators finalised their scores the Senior School community was treated to a performance by the Senior Stage Band.
Another significant element of the day was having the house choirs accompanied by a staff band – Brad Treloar, Scott Jolley, Isaac Barter and Patrick Consedine.
Congratulations to all students who performed. A special mention of congratulations to the students who were soloists, ensemble leaders, choir conductors, comperes, and the student stage crew. Be proud of your work, commitment to your peers and servant hearted contribution to the Senior School community.
The adjudicators Carla Dunlop and Tom Fraser expressed how difficult it was to judge each division. Congratulations to our students for the poise and skill they exhibited in their presentations, as well as having the courage to perform for their peers. House Music 2026 was a fabulous event where we have had the opportunity to grow further our positive relationships and sense of community at the Senior Campus. The Prizes: Small Ensemble Award – First Place – Flynn House – Evie, Poppy, Charlie & Xavier who performed the winner takes it all. Large Ensemble Award – First Place – Taylor House – Big Band – Performing Africa by Toto – Arabella & Rebecca – Voice. Jayden – Horn. Peter – Trombone. Guy – Guitar. Max & Callum – Keyboard. Liam – Electric Bass. Ben – Percussion. Jamie – Drums Vocal Solo Award – Equal First Place – Flynn House – Evie, Year 12 who sang Listen & Burrows House – Heidi Yr 12 who sang Purple Rain. Instrumental Solo Award– First Place – Penman- Will Year 12 who performed Electric Sunrise. House Choir Award – First Place – Burrows House – Conducted by Heidi Warnock and Issie Whitaker who performed Sweet Caroline Overall, 2025 Champion House – First place Burrows House with 169 points and Flynn house coming 2nd by just 1 point with 168 points and Penman in 3rd place and Taylor in 4th. Congratulations to all participants and thanks to all who worked to make the day a very special event for the Senior School community.
Fiona Gardner, Director of Music
Bev McArthur MLC Visits Year 12 Politics
On Thursday the Year 12 Politics class had the valuable opportunity to meet with Bev McArthur MLC, alongside College Principal Dr Mathilda Joubert, as part of their exploration of democracy and political perspectives. The discussion centred on key issues shaping Victoria today, giving students insight into how political debate operates in practice.
Students asked thoughtful questions on topics including cost of living pressures, state debt, youth crime, and housing affordability. Ms McArthur outlined the Coalition’s emphasis on fiscal responsibility, stricter approaches to law and order, and alternative strategies for housing and infrastructure. The class also examined more complex issues such as the role of minor parties, the First Nations Assembly, and concerns about government integrity.
Importantly, the session highlighted the differing viewpoints between political parties and the challenges of balancing competing priorities in a democracy. Ms McArthur encouraged students to stay informed and engaged, particularly as many prepare to vote for the first time.
Overall, the meeting provided a meaningful, real-world perspective on how political ideas are debated, challenged, and shaped within Australia’s democratic system.
Tim Wright
Mindful Mondays
During May, the library celebrated all things mindful by promoting and encouraging various ways to prioritise mental health. Engaging in an activity for just 20 minutes a day can refresh and reset the mind, aiding overall wellbeing. Remember, it’s crucial to do something for yourself, something you enjoy that helps you relax and reset.
This week the focus was on the “Power of the Paint”
Mindful painting helped students concentrate on something other than their usual workload. Using paint to colour bookmarks, inspires creativity, and helps you relax and be mindful. It encourages the present. It’s about being absorbed in the act of painting, paying attention to colours, brushstrokes, and the flow of creativity, all while minimising judgment and self-criticism. This practice offers benefits like stress reduction, improved concentration, and a deeper connection to one’s creative self. Each bookmark has small and detailed areas for colouring in that requires a gentle concentration that takes the mind off everything else, doing so allows you to enjoy the experience. Through mindfulness painting, we enabled students to relax, find satisfaction and be proud of what they created. I would like to thank all students and staff that got involved in the Mindful May activities.
Labrini Soldatos
Wired for Learning: the Science of Sleep
Students in Unit 4 Psychology have kicked off their new topic on Sleep and the impacts of Sleep Deprivation with a hands-on experience that quite literally brought brain activity to life. In an engaging and memorable lesson, volunteers were connected to a Human Spiker Box, allowing the class to observe electrical activity associated with brain waves and muscle movement in real time.
The Human Spiker Box, a device designed to amplify electrical signals from the body, was used to demonstrate how scientists measure physiological changes during sleep. By safely attaching electrodes to a student’s head and arm, the class could see simplified representations of electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) readings projected for everyone to view. As each volunteer relaxed, tensed their muscles, blinked or thought about different topics, the signals fluctuated on screen, giving students a glimpse into how our bodies and brain communicate through electrical impulses.
This practical demonstration helped students connect theory to real-world applications. EEGs, which measure brain wave activity, are crucial in identifying different stages of sleep, while EMGs track muscle activity that changes as the body moves through each sleep stage. Seeing these signals live made abstract concepts far more tangible, sparking curiosity and discussion across the classroom.
The activity also introduced students to the methods scientists use in sleep research, including polysomnography — a comprehensive recording of brain activity, eye movements, and muscle tone typically conducted in sleep studies. By simulating aspects of this process, the lesson highlighted how researchers gather evidence to understand sleep patterns, disorders, and the overall importance of rest for wellbeing.
With wires, waveforms, and plenty of curiosity, Unit 4 Psychology students are off to an electrifying start—now also tracking their own sleep patterns through personal sleep diaries, proving that sometimes the best way to understand the science of sleep is to experience it firsthand.
Rebecca Bartlett
Year 10s – ‘Stuck’ at La Mama in Carlton
On Friday last week, our Year 10 Drama students attended their first play together, Stuck, at the historic La Mama Theatre in Carlton, accompanied by Mrs Griffin and me.
The intimate theatre setting allowed students to closely observe and respond to the expressive and performance skills of the actors, experiencing the work up close. It also provided an opportunity to analyse production elements within a poor theatre style, while being challenged and intrigued by the use of absurdist and feminist theatre conventions.
The journey itself, involving two trains, a tram ride and a walk through the city, added to the experience, with a memorable stop to admire the famous cakes at Brunetti’s along the way!
Stuck, written by award-winning playwright Megan Twycross, is a darkly comic exploration of two generations of women. Set in a small town supermarket deli, the play follows Young One and Old One as they slice meat while cutting each other down, revealing the tensions between tradition and change. Through its sharp humour and unflinching lens, the work explores the systems that can keep women “stuck.”
At its core, the play strongly resonated with the realities of adolescence; navigating expectations, challenging stereotypes, and developing a sense of identity. The experience offered students not only a powerful piece of theatre, but also a meaningful opportunity to reflect, question and grow as both artists and individuals.
Overall, the excursion challenged students as theatre-makers while also broadening their life experiences beyond the classroom.
Taylah Broad
VCAA Plain Speaking Competition
On Tuesday 19 May the online regional heat of VCAA’s annual Plain Speaking Competition was conducted in the RW Gibson Music Auditorium. The competition involved students from across Victoria and consisted of prepared and impromptu public speaking challenges. The challenges afforded students the opportunity to develop their capacity to discuss global topics and contemporary issues with clarity, confidence and conviction.
This year, Year 11 student, Amelia H, proudly represented our college in this event. Amelia’s prepared speech, ‘The Burden of Beauty,’ intelligently and maturely engaged with the topic of gender expectations and was delivered with passion and sincerity. I encourage you to read this fantastic speech in the attached transcript. In addition, Amelia’s impromptu speech on the unseen prompt, ‘A New Start’, showcased her ability to think quickly and communicate fluently ‘off cuff.’
Amelia received outstanding feedback from the adjudicators for both her prepared and impromptu speeches, narrowly missing out on progressing to the state final. Amelia is to be commended for her wonderful performance on the day, and, equally, her enthusiastic and gracious spirit. Amelia’s participation in the VCAA Plain Speaking Competition is a timely reminder of the vital importance of critical thinking, effective communication and active engagement with the world around us.
Calling all Year 11s and 12s With a Passion for Science!
The Australian Science Innovations is once again hosting their Australian Science Olympiads in 2026.
If you are in Year 11 or 12 and interested in testing your Science knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills then this Olympiad is for you.
The Olympiad includes a 2-hour exam for each of the following subjects:
- Physics – Monday 27 July 2026
- Biology – Tuesday 28 July 2026
- Earth and Environmental Science – Wednesday 29 July 2026
- Chemistry – Thursday 30 July 2026
The Olympiad allows you to test your abilities against the national cohort and can also lead to further opportunities including:
- Being invited to attend the Australian Science Olympiad Summer School in one of the four disciplines
- Being selected to represent Australia at an International Science Olympiad
The exam will be paid for by the College and facilitated at Senior School during school hours on a date between Monday, 27 and Thursday, 30 July.
All participants will receive a certificate indicating their performance.
If you are interested in taking part in the Australian Science Olympiad, please see Mrs Bartlett (Senior Science Coordinator) or email your interest to r.bartlett@ccg.vic.edu.au
Rebecca Bartlett
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
Attention Students Looking to Study a VET Course in 2027
Getting into a trade is a great choice! TASTE of TAFE is a free all-day event offered to Year 9 and 10 students each year at The Gordon’s City & East campuses. Students get to try fun, hands-on tasters from all course areas. This can help them to find out what they like and learn new skills. They get to explore the different career options studying at The Gordon can give them.
2026 Taster Day is July 21 - City Campus and July 28 - East Geelong Campus
Courses at The Gordon East Campus include Animal Studies, Auto Mechanical, Bricklaying, Building Design (Architectural), Cabinet Making and Joinery, Carpentry, Electrical, Engineering & Metal Trades, Horticulture, Information Technologies, Landscaping, Painting & Decorating, Plumbing.
Courses at The Gordon City Campus include Accounting & Business, Aged Care, Allied Health, Beauty Therapy, Community Services, Cookery, Digital Media, Early Childhood Education, Graphic Design, Hairdressing, Hospitality, Lab Tech, Nursing.
Given the immense popularity of this event, you are encouraged to return your application as soon as possible. They will be operating on a first-come, first-served basis and attendance numbers from each school are capped.
Registration forms will be emailed to all Year 9 and 10 families and hard copies available from the Student Office. You can also access one here Taste Of TAFE Registration Form
For further information or queries please contact Kerryn Fearnsides k.fearnsides@ccg.vic.edu.au or Elaine Pearson e.pearson@ccg.vic.edu.au or Jenelle Fitzpatrick j.fitzpatrick@ccg.vic.edu.au at the Senior Campus.
Student Registration Forms should be returned to the student office at the earliest opportunity, and no later than Friday 29 May.
Kerryn Fearnsides, Vocational Pathways Coordinator
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