dr fulvio frijo - st monica's college
TRANSCRIPT
VOLUME 29 NUMBER 3 May – June 2019
Dr F
ulvio
Frij
o
ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPING
Our School of Many Colors
Contents
Principal’s Report 3
Dalton Road Campus Director’s Report 4
Davisson Street Campus Director’s Report 4
Deputy Principal’s Report (Innovation and ICT Leader) 5
Deputy Principal’s Report (Curriculum) 5
Deputy Principal’s Report (Identity, Mission & Administration) 6
Assistant Principal’s Report (Property and Planning) 7
Liturgy, Faith & Mission 8
Youth Ministry 9
External Public Speaking 2019 10
Chess Tournament 11
Monicans in May Concert 12-13
VET Music Concert 14
Boroondara Eisteddfod 14
Victorian School Music Festival 15
Generations in Jazz 16-17
College Operations Group 17
Sport 18
International Basketball 19
Careers 20
Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery 20
Alumni 21-23
Co -Curricular Activities 24
MISSIONSt Monica’s College is a regional Catholic coeducational faith community. The school values the sacredness and wellbeing of all students, staff and parents and is committed to serving the young people of the northern
suburbs of Melbourne.
We promote the truths and values of Jesus Christ and fidelity to the message of the Gospels. Through prayer and perseverance, we nur ture genuine and harmonious relationships based on restorative principles.
Our teaching and learning approach is contemporary, global in perspective and aims to inspire life-long learning. We seek to stimulate and develop academic learning and students’ personal world view through critical thought, whilst always being respectful of students’ abilities and learning styles. We encourage and assist each
Monican to reach full potential.
Student-centred educational programs and extra-curricular offerings foster respect of self, others and the environment. The College provides extensive well maintained facilities, resources and technologies which reflect an ongoing commitment to excellence
and innovation.
St Monica’s College celebrates its cultural diversity and draws strong identity from its past. We endeavour to empower Monicans to flourish and contribute positively to Australia and the world, now and in the
future.
OUR STRATEGIC INTENT St Monica’s College is a School of Educational Enterprise. The College is committed to adopting international perspectives focussing on global citizenship and social justice for all. There is an ongoing commitment to the development of programs and facilities including a Trade Skills Centre. The College aims to be a leader in innovation, the use of Information and Communication Technology, with state of the art resources and encouraging digital leadership. The College will continue to expand the repertoire of effective teaching practices and use of data, in order to strengthen curriculum pathways and achievement. Contemporary learning opportunities will be provided for all community members, including students,
staff and parents.
EDITORIAL TEAMPrincipal Mr Brian Hanley
Ms Pamela Griffin
COVER‘Dr Fulvio Frijo’
ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPINGSchool of Educational Enterprise
that Monicans can be comfortable, perhaps confide secrets or share concerns with utmost confidentiality. Let us hope that in this School of Many Colors that friends abound and that authentic and loving relationships flourish.
People love their pets, a special and unique kind of love. People love film stars and musicians, ballet dancers and athletes. We call these ‘popular heroes’ or ‘good life models’. A man named Jean Vanier (1928 - 2019) died recently. He formed L’Arche communities throughout the world where everyday folk live in community with disabled folk. There is much to learn from Jean Vanier through his actions and his writings. Many loved him and have based their lives around him.
Saint Monica loved Augustine, her wayward son. She is always our model, our guide and our patron. The Sacred Heart was being venerated at the time of Monica’s life and she would have seen images and maybe have been present at talks and sermons. Certainly her son, Augustine, mentions the Sacred Heart of Jesus in his writings. The Sacred Heart segues us into the beautiful realm of love, fervour for goodness and compassion. May we, like Saint Margaret Alacoque who experienced apparitions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the seventeenth century, be inspired to become people of love towards all whom we encounter in our life journey.
Second term at SMC was examination time and I urged all students to give 100% towards their study for examinations. There is knowledge to be gained, good habits to develop and the benefits of self-discipline. Term 2 is time for Grease and so many Monicans have prepared and rehearsed for hours in anticipation of a fabulous production for 2019. Term 2 also sees the transition into second semester as of 17 June, when senior students step up to new VCE units, Years 9 and 10 students start new
electives, and the junior students do the other half of their course in certain faculty areas. It is a time for renewal and reinvigoration.
The retirement of two esteemed Monicans will occur. Dr Fulvio Frijo, our Deputy Principal for Innovation and ICT Leadership, retires along with Mr Graham Bell, our Business and Services Manager. These Monicans have given outstanding service to this College in various capacities. Dr Frijo served as Dalton Road Director during his career here, and Mr Bell chaired the College Board for twelve months. Their legacy is appreciated and will not be forgotten. God bless them both.
I extend best wishes to all families and staff for the forthcoming winter holidays and thank everyone for making St Monica’s College, Epping the brilliant School of Many Colors which it is.
Brian E. HanleyCollege Principal
The Christian community celebrates and venerates the Sacred Heart of Jesus on 28 June 2019, the final day of Term 2 this year. Traditionally known as the Feast of the Sacred Heart, the symbol of Jesus’ heart is a flaming heart shining with divine light. This heart is pierced by a lance, encircled by a crown of thorns, surmounted by a cross, and the heart bleeds. It is truly a dramatic image.
We know that Jesus died for our sins. It was a ghastly and painful death that brought redemption to all humanity. The bleeding heart reminds us of the agony suffered by Jesus and the piercing through the heart reminds us of the wounds he suffered as he hung on the cross at Calvary. The flames emanating from the heart teach us of the great love our Lord has for all humanity.
We all have people and things we love, and we even have spiritual occasions which move us to love the feelings they evoke. Some people love Christmas, the nativity of the Saviour: others are happiest and most content at Eastertide when Jesus conquered the power of death and opened wide the Kingdom of God. For others, the feast days of their namesake saint might be a time for joyfulness whilst there are people who love particular feasts associated with the Blessed Virgin (Assumption) or the Holy Spirit (Pentecost).
Monicans love their families, we pray. Parents are special and critical to our existence whilst grandparents always seem to bring happiness into our lives whatever their or our age. Many people form close and loving relationships with their siblings, their aunts and uncles, and their cousins. Family memories are precious when good times were enjoyed and family bonds were strengthened.
Friends are loved by Monicans – best friend, loyal mate, girl or boy friend. It is with friends
Principal’s Report
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Our School of M
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Mr Bria
n Han
ley
Beginnings are times of renewal, opportunities to reassess priorities and to reset. At the commencement of each year, we set ourselves goals and establish a number of commitments in order to achieve the success we hope for and aspire to. Such goals often include promises to live a more balanced life, to not succumb to stressors and pressures and to work hard at whatever it is that we have devoted ourselves to accomplish.
New beginnings are available at many times throughout the course of our lives, not only at the start of a new calendar year. They present to us in numerous ways annually on our birthdays, each school term, every week and each day. Each new beginning allows us to make some adjustments or to build on good practice so that ultimately, we place ourselves in a greater position to achieve our goals.
Being a senior secondary student in the 21st century is challenging. Students are incredibly busy, often balancing school, homework, part-time work, co-curricular activities, relationships and social networking. These are all valid and necessary aspects of an adolescent’s life. At times however, it seems our young people are juggling so much that they are struggling to complete anything well or to a standard that they themselves find acceptable. For some, it is easier to give up or to let go of particular aspirations and dreams, because they seem to be beyond reach. As the committed adults in the lives of the young people in our care, it is our ongoing responsibility to ensure that we assist in providing the necessary circuit breakers that encourage them to renew, reassess and reset.
For our senior students, the changeover into Semester 2 signifies a time of change and certainly of new beginnings. As Year 10 students step closer towards their senior certificates of VCE, VET or VCAL, Semester 2 is a time to work harder than ever before, to ensure that academic foundations are solid in preparation for the years ahead. As our Year 11 and 12 students move into Unit 2 and Unit 4 studies respectively, the commencement of Semester 2 provides the optimum time to pick up the pace and set a strong momentum forward.
The following tips provide an effective starting point:• Take care of yourself – get enough sleep, eat well, drink water, practice self-care
and exercise• Learn about time management – prioritize and schedule, use a planner or calendar
to not get overwhelmed• Take notes – note-taking assists with processing details and recalling information• Be prepared – check that you have all you need, and/or complete pre-reading• Complete all tasks – no matter how tedious they may seem. They form essential
pieces of the learning puzzle• Join a study group – learn from each other and teach one another. There are
benefits on both sides• Take advantage of College resources – access your teachers, the library, study
center tutors and so much more• Ask questions and for help – it is always better to seek clarification or assistance.
You are not alone• Socialize – do not isolate yourself. Establish a strong support system around you
and have fun• Study – maximize every opportunity to study. Create note-cards (on your phone if
that helps) and access these during in-between times (waiting for transport, before class, commuting to school, etc.). Adding these moments to scheduled study time, increases your study time bank.
As we embark on Semester 2 and all the prospects, learnings and challenges that it may present to us as students, staff or parents, let us embrace this new beginning as a chance to renew, reassess and reset not only our goals but also ourselves. This may actually have the effect of drawing those distant dreams and aspirations, significantly closer.
Paula Di MariaDeputy Principal, Director of Davisson Street Campus
Davisson Street Campus Director’s Report
Touring the Dalton Road Campus this morning indicates that all is positive in the lives of our Year 7 to Year 9 students. Today is the first day of exam week for our Year 7 HORIZONS, Year 8 and Year 9 students and it is a pleasure to observe them busily using valuable study time to prepare for exams.
Year 8 and Year 9 students are well versed in sitting exams and are approaching their exams quite confidently with study notes, highlighted passages, chapter summaries and study cards displayed proudly on desks as they cram in some last minute knowledge. They understand that exams will bring to a close what they have learned this first semester whilst at the same time, providing a scaffold for what is to come in the second half of the year. I certainly wish them well, encouraging them to perform at their very best and reassuring them that all will be well. I really hope that I have convinced them of their capabilities.
Our Year 7 students busily continue with classroom tasks that will take them to the close of Semester 1. In the majority of cases, they have been an absolute pleasure and have taken the time to explore and learn about the campus and its offerings. Year 7 Premier League has been a great success this term, with so many students signing up to participate in this event. Their maturity and sportsmanship has been very admirable. At all times and in all circumstances our Year 7 students demonstrate great initiative, enthusiasm and willingness to succeed.
A recent activity involving the entire campus was our Back to the Parish Masses celebrating the Feast of the Sacred Heart. Student attendance, punctuality, behavior and participation was exceptionally pleasing. Whether our students travelled to their local churches or made their way to school for Mass in the Sports and Assembly Hall – they were extremely respectful of the meaning behind the Mass that was celebrated. This is the sixteenth year the College has joined with our regional Parishes to participate and celebrate mass. There was a lovely sense of community in each Parish.
As we prepare to conclude the first semester in 2019, I reflect on a wonderfully satisfying experience. A diary full of activities, experiences, excursions, student appointments, parent interviews, classroom visits and teaching have all resulted in an exceptional semester.
For the time being I wish all students a safe holiday and look forward to greeting many students back to the Dalton Road Campus in Term 3.
Amorina ChiricoDeputy Principal, Director of Dalton Road Campus
Dalton Road Campus Director’s Report
Ms Amorina C
hiric
o
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Miss Paula D
i Mar
ia
TAKADA TRIP SEPTEMBER 2019I am pleased to advise that fifteen (15) students and two (2) staff are visiting Japan from 14 – 27 September this year. Accompanying the following students will be Miss Michelle Delfos (Tour Leader) and Mr Andrew Rofo. I also congratulate Miss Delfos on her appointment as the new Takada Homestay Exchange Coordinator. The students who are going to Japan are as follows:
Jason Cho (Year 9); Tahlia Donnelly (Year 10); Caitlin Dowsett (Year 9); Christopher Jong (Year 11); Yashvi Jaswal (Year 10); Marko Kanzurovski (Year 10); Luke Kent (Year 10); Vivian Ly (Year 10); Jaimee Lymbouris (Year 9); Julia Marasco (Year 9); Charlotte Petrecca (Year 10); Helena Popovski (Year 9); Shivon Sarathy (Year 10); Kaliopi Sword (Year 10); Phoebe Zamparo (Year 9).
THE COLLEGE NETWORK AND STUDENT DEVICESOur network is vast one, catering on a daily basis for more than 1900 students and 300 staff. All teaching staff and students each have a notebook computer. I am pleased to report that the College has successfully negotiated the purchase of Lenovo notebooks for Years 7 and 10 students in 2020. Add to this, we are also looking at implementing a solid and ample internet filtering service: trialling this Cisco product will take about six weeks and implementation will occur towards the end of the year. Thirdly, but by no means the least, is the internet provision for 2020 and beyond. We have sought four quotes from major providers, and pending further consideration, we should be in a position to sign off on this service before the end of Term 2. Put simply, this is your College fees at work, ICT, a vital service for your College.
I would also like to take this opportunity of congratulating Mr Matthew Byrne on his appointment as the new IT Manager at the College.
MOVING TO THE NEXT PHASEThis is my last article for the Monican. After having served as Deputy Principal and Campus Director at DRC for 18 years and Deputy Principal Innovation & ICT Leader for the past six and half years and a further 15 years in three other Catholic schools, the time has come for me to move on to the next phase in my life. I leave with an immense sense of pride and gratitude. I am proud that I have worked for 40 years in Catholic education, and the last 25 years has been the most productive of my career as a Catholic educator. There are so many highlights, and three stand out – having been Campus Director at DRC, leading the Information Communications Technology provision over a number of years and a 25-year involvement in the Takada Homestay Exchange Program, nine of which as its coordinator. I have been privileged to serve in the vibrant community which is SMC and I am grateful to have worked alongside so many wonderful colleagues, met so many parents and been a part of the lives of so many students. The SMC community will always be in my prayers as it continues to develop and enhance the Catholic education provision in the northern suburbs.
Dr Fulvio FrijoDeputy Principal (Innovation and ICT Leader)
Innovation & ICT LeaderDeputy Principal’s Report
I would like to welcome everyone to Semester 2. Beginning on Monday 17 June all students have moved into their Semester 2 studies and subjects. Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students have sat their examinations and are to be commended for the manner in which they attempted them. The importance of this assessment and the skills they are acquiring through this program will be of great benefit in the future. Year 7 students are fully involved in other forms of ongoing assessment at this time of year.
The examination results along with the continuous assessment occurring throughout the entire semester, are reported to parents via our online reporting system. Reports are delivered to parents at the end of the term via the Parent Access Module (PAM) of our SIMON administration package.
Educational research shows that when parents are involved in their child’s education the children have higher grades, higher test scores, better school attendance, increased motivation and better self-esteem. The College is looking to encourage parents to be more involved with their children’s education. The preparation of an action plan with your children for ways they can address any improvements mentioned in the reports is a wonderful way to assist them.
A second opportunity to engage with your children’s education is during the subject selection process for Year 8 - 11. This will occur during Term 3 and will involve information sessions and our traditional Subject Expo. The choice of subjects is a very important event each year if done well, students enjoy much more success with their studies. Please watch for more details as Term 3 begins.
NAPLAN testing has just been completed for Years 7 and 9. Students are to be commended for their approach to these tests. Again, the College leads the way with the use of technology by doing our testing online. It has been well publicized in the media of issues other schools encountered during this process. We did not suffer the same issues, due our superb ICT infrastructure. Students took very seriously the nature of these extremely important pieces of assessment. The results obtained from this assessment program are not just a vehicle by which parents can access important outcomes of their child’s progress in the areas of Literacy and Numeracy. They also provide an extremely important diagnostic tool for use by the College. Used along with a wealth of other data we are able to ensure that teaching and learning programs and educational support programs provide the very best opportunities for our students. I thank parents for their continued support of this process.
So as a very busy semester ends I wish all Monicans well for the rest of the year, and for a happy and safe break and look forward to as full and exciting Semester 2.
Stephen Baker Deputy Principal (Curriculum)
CurriculumDeputy Principal’s Report
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Dr Fulvio F
rijo
Mr Stephen B
aker
Identity, Mission & AdministrationDeputy Principal’s Report
Miss Bernadett
e Har
ris
The College was pleased to welcome Sister Rita Hayes sgs in early June, to lead a College Conversation on her work in East Timor. It was fitting, in this week leading up to Pentecost, knowing how the Holy Spirit has inspired and guided the Sisters of the Good Samarian to devote their lives to service of others, that we took time to listen to Sister Rita’s story.
Staff and students felt privileged to hear about Sister Rita’s ministry and her ongoing work over the past two decades with the people of Timor Leste. As a College formed in the Good Samaritan Benedictine tradition, we are mindful of working in solidarity to support and assist others. This aligns with our call to mission as a Catholic school, seeking to honour the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and afforded Monicans an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the East Timorese.
Sister Rita’s heart felt testimony detailed the devastating effects of the war on the people of East Timor, the landscape, infrastructure and their struggle to rebuild and recover their lives. The Scholarship Program that has successfully assisted many to graduate from school and attend University is testament to Sister Rita’s passion for education, working in partnership with families and working for long term and sustainable change.
The 2019 annual theme of “Our School of Many Colours” is proving to be one that promotes consideration of our diversity and the richness of experiences that Monicans share. Our own staff member, Mrs Wendy Hine also visited East Timor in 2018 as part of a Caritas Immersion Program. She was able to supplement the College Conversation with her own impressions and learnings, strengthening our desire to work for justice and providing ongoing support to rebuilding efforts in East Timor.
Bernadette HarrisDeputy Principal (Identity, Mission & Administration)
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Property and PlanningAssistant Principal’s Report
Mr Cameron W
hitfo
rd
In January the College upgraded its heating and cooling facilities in Building Q on the Davisson Street campus. This was done by decommissioning the old boiler heating unit and installing 25 new individual split system heating and cooling units in classrooms within the building. This allows teachers and students to work in comfort both in the middle of winter and the month of February, usually the hottest month of the year. This upgrade of HVAC will continue over the next few years with the aim of keeping classrooms between 20 - 23 degrees celsius has been found to be the most effective temperature range for learning (Hamer, D.P, 1974).
An update on our major building projects:
HORIZONS PROJECTThese rooms continue to be used by students in the HORIZONS program much to their enjoyment and enthusiasm. Work on the external deck continues and is scheduled to be completed by the end of June, weather permitting.
DAVISSON STREET – TEACHING, LEARNING AND ADMINISTRATION BUILDINGThe link is here! Work on Jean Vanier Bridge Link has begun and is the final piece of the puzzle as we move towards the finish line of construction. Internally the building will be completed by the end of June with the eternal landscaping and link to be completed shortly thereafter. Students and staff will be using the building in Term Three with the Senior Council members having toured the facility recently. Staff are preparing to move offices as are the Reception staff and Campus Director and even the Principal will have an office in the building.
Cameron WhitfordAssistant Principal (Property and Planning)
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Liturgy, Faith & MissionFrank C
umbo
The recent Parish Masses provided our Year 7 – Year 9 Monicans with the opportunity to represent our College in their local place of worship. Thinking of our feeder parishes as Churches with their own distinctive spirit, atmosphere and colour helps us to appreciate that St Monica’s College is truly ‘Our School of Many Colors.’ From the smallest congregations with a few students present, through to overflowing Churches with hundreds of Monicans, staff and students saw the diversity of the Catholic Church in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.
The unifying element to each of these liturgies was the shared celebration of the feast of the Visitation of Mary. This great feast is a celebration of an important value in our College, one which was instilled in us from our foundation through the example and work of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan of the Order of St Benedict; humility.
As Father Anh Nguyen observed in his homily for St Peter’s Parishioners in the Sports and Assembly Hall ‘There is a surprise here. If anyone should be making the visit, it really should be Elizabeth to the Mother of the Son of God. But no. It is Mary with Jesus who visits. It is an anticipation of something that Jesus would tell His disciples later on: “The Son of Man has come to serve, not to be served.”’
The kind of humility modelled by Mary is not one that requires us to diminish or downplay the honors we have been given. Instead, it is about cherishing the good that God has worked in our lives while always looking to the needs of those around us, serving them with true Christian love. This message was reflected in the homilies offered by all the priests in our feeder parishes, each with a unique perspective on how we should take Mary’s life as a model for our own.
Another significant para-liturgy that took place in May was the commissioning of our College’s newest FIRE Carrier, James Golob. This ceremony took place during our Indigenous Awareness Week, the time of the year we devote to celebrating the history, culture and achievements of First Australians. FIRE Carriers continue this work throughout the year, advocating respect and reconciliation in their classrooms, friendship groups and year levels. The symbolism of fire and the ritual element of this ceremony helped all present reflect on the central place respect must continue to have in ‘Our School of Many Colors.’
Frank Cumbo Liturgy, Faith & Mission Coordinator
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“ The Senior Students’ Retreat was such a joyful and holy day. I felt extremely blessed to have met Matt Fradd and to hear his journey of coming to the faith. Once again, it was a pleasure to see Gen Bryant perform and share her story with us. It was refreshing to hear different testimonies from adults as well as ones from other students. It truly showed me the many pathways that lead people to the Church and its ability to unite us together.”
– Vivian Ly (Year 12)
Youth Ministry
On 3 May, representatives from St Monica’s Youth Ministry attended a “Senior Student Retreat Day” hosted by Catholic Vocations Melbourne and the Archdiocesan Office for Youth. This day featured internationally renowned speaker and author, Matt Fradd. Matt’s presentation encouraged students to reflect on how we might employ faith and reason together in exploring ‘big’ questions about our purpose in life. He shared his personal journey of coming to the realisation that belief in God is more reasonable than unbelief, drawing students into a philosophical discussion about God and our existence.
Students also heard from Genevieve Bryant, a young Australian Catholic and musician. Genevieve shared her inspirational music with us, and reflected on how her musical abilities are gifts from God, best utilised in the service of others. Students were encouraged to reflect on God’s personal love for them as well as how they might acknowledge and use their gifts to bring joy and love into the world. We learnt that when we recognise our life as a gift, we are more readily freed from the anxiety that comes from comparison with others and fear of mistakes. Given our theme, “Our School of Many Colors”, it was appropriate that we reflected on our being made in God’s image and likeness, called to serve others with our many diverse gifts and backgrounds.
Students also heard from Father Nicholas Pearce and Sister Maria Joy OP, who not only shared their personal journey of discerning God’s will in their lives, but also provided valuable advice for discerning and decision-making in our every-day lives.
Monicans enjoyed the day of talks, music, and activities which allowed them to reflect on their role as young Catholics today, and the future of our Church and broader society.
Theresa McLaurin Youth Minister
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Theresa McL
aurin
External Public Speaking 2019
The month of May was an important and busy month for Public Speaking at St Monica’s College. Numerous St Monica’s College students competed in various external public speaking competitions where they matched their skills against students from other schools across the state.
To commence a busy period of Public Speaking, six SMC students competed in a regional heat of The Debaters Association of Victoria Junior Public Speaking Competition at Kilmore International College on Thursday 9 May. Julia El Halabi (Year 7 Emerald), Summer Keovong (Year 7 Yellow), Anika Nicholapillai (Year 7 Silver), Tricia Rodrigues (Year 7 Mauve), Bianca Ssebuufu (Year 7 Yellow) and Manju Malathi Vettrivel (Year 7 White) each presented a prepared speech of 5 minutes duration and an impromptu speech of 3 minutes duration. Because of their respective performance, Manju and Anika were awarded equal first place and progressed through to the preliminary-finals to be held in Term 3.
On Sunday 19 May, one Dalton Road Campus student competed in the regional heat of The Rostrum Voice of Youth Junior Public Speaking Competition held at St Monica’s College. Sienna Bartolomeo (Year 9 Blue) presented a prepared speech of 6 minutes duration. Her performance was worthy of placing her in the top two places of her heat and she progressed to the semi-final on the day and narrowly missed out on a place in the state final. On the same day, five Davisson Street Campus students presented speeches of 8 minutes duration in the Rostrum Voice of Youth Senior Public Speaking Competition. They were Grace McFarlane (Year 11 Red), Nicholas Grammenos (Year 11 Blue), Leanne Sebastian (Year 10 Mauve), Mila Spirovski (Year 10 Mauve) and Theodora Mandaza (Year 10 White). All these students progressed to the semi-finals on the day. Because of their respective performance both Leanne and Grace were awarded first and second place respectively, with Leanne qualifying for the state final held at St Kevin College Toorak on Sunday 23 June.
St Monica’s entered one student, Heli Bhavsar (Year 8 Silver), into the regional final of the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Competition held on Thursday 39 May at Legacy House. Heli presented a speech of 5 minutes duration followed by an impromptu speech of 2 minutes duration. Her performance was worthy of placing her in second place on the day, narrowly missing out on a place in the preliminary final.
St Monica’s also competed in The Victorian Curriculum & Assessment Authority Plain English-Speaking Awards. Hachins D’Souza (Year 12 White) and Mandy Petros (Year 12 Gold) competed in the 31 May regional final held at St Monica’s College. Both students presented a prepared speech of 6 minutes duration, followed by a three-minute impromptu speech. They performed with distinction. Mandy was awarded second place on the day.
These students must be congratulated for all the effort and time they have committed to refine and practice their public speaking skills and the way they have shown that St Monica’s College students have the capability to succeed on a very competitive public speaking competition circuit.
Mr D ZucchetPublic Speaking & Debating Coordinator
2019 Plain English-Speaking Awards competitors:(L-R) Hachins D’Souza & Mandy Petros (regional final second place)
2019 Rostrum Voice of Youth Public Speaking Competition senior competitors:(L-R) Leanne Sebastian (state finalist), Grace McFarlane (semi final runner up), Theodora
Mandaza (semi finalist), Mila Spirovski (semi finalist) & Nicholas Grammenos (semi finalist).
2019 Debating Association of Victoria Junior Public Speaking competitors:(L-R) Manju Vettrivel Malathi (preliminary finalist), Anika Nicholapillai (preliminary finalist),
Summer Keovong, Julia El Halabi, Bianca Ssebuufu & Tricia Rodrigues.
2019 Rostrum Voice of Youth Public Speaking Competition junior competitor:
Sienna Bartolomeo (semi finalist)
2019 Legacy Victoria Junior Public Speaking competitor:
Heli Bhavsar (regional final second place).
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Chess Tournament
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Music
MONICANS IN MAY CONCERTThe Monicans in May Concert was held on Wednesday 8 May in the Theatre of All Nations. The evening was a showcase of all College music ensembles. The large audience was entertained throughout the evening by a diverse range of musical styles presented.
There were many highlights throughout the evening. These included the first public performance for Year 7 students in Year 7 Band and Junior String Ensemble as well as outstanding performances from senior students who demonstrated a high level of skill and preparation in their ensembles.
The evening featured performances from the following ensembles; Year 7 Band, Intermediate Band, Concert Band, Stage Band, Senior Jazz Combo, SMC Singers, Senior Vocal Ensemble, Junior and Senior Guitar Ensemble, Junior and Senior Rock Bands, Junior String Ensemble, Senior String Ensemble, Junior and Senior Flute Ensembles, Saxophone Quar tet and Percussion Ensemble.
Thank you to all ensemble directors and music staff who prepared students for the evening and congratulations to all students who participated.
D HatherellDirector of Music
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VET MUSIC CONCERTThe VET Music Concert was held on Wednesday 29 May in the Theatre of All Nations. The evening featured performances from the Year 12 VET Music Industry students and they were supported by the Junior Rock Band and Senior Rock Band. All students performed at a high standard and the audience enjoyed the range of styles presented.
BOROONDARA EISTEDDFODThe SMC Singers competed in the Year 7 to 12 Secondary School Choir section of the Boroondara Eisteddfod on Tuesday 28 May at Hawthorn Arts Centre. They performed two song titled ‘Festival Sanctus’ and ‘You Will Be Found’.
The choir was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ for their performance which was an outstanding result amongst some distinguished choirs.
Congratulations to all students who performed and thank you to the ensemble director Mrs Murone and choir accompanist Mr Chan for their work in preparing the students.
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VICTORIAN SCHOOL MUSIC FESTIVALThe Senior St r ing Ensemble par t icipated in the Victor ian School Music Festival on Monday 3 June at Hawthorn Arts Centre. They performed two pieces titled ‘Danza Espanola’ and ‘Rise of the Olympians’.
As part of the festival, the students received a workshop with the a djud ica tor fol low i ng t he i r performance. He had very positive feedback and was able to workshop some different approaches to their pieces.
The ensemble was presented with a ‘Gold’ Award for their performance which was an excellent achievement.
Congratulations to all students who performed and thank you to Ms Lai for preparing the ensemble for the event.
D HatherellDirector of Music
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Music
GENERATIONS IN JAZZOn Friday 3 May to Sunday 5 May, 2019, students in the Stage Band, Senior Vocal Ensemble and Senior Jazz Combo travelled to Mount Gambier, South Australia to participate in the Generations in Jazz festival.
This was the eighth year St Monica’s College has participated in the event and the festival gets bigger each year with over 6000 students from across Australia and New Zealand participating in 2019.
The event offers a unique opportunity for secondary school students to perform and compete in the prestigious Stage Band and Vocal Ensemble awards and attend concerts and workshops provided by internationally renowned Jazz musicians, led by James Morrison.
Upon arrival on Friday evening, students attended a welcome concert headlined by James Morrison, Kurt Elling, Liz Wright, Joey De Francesco and the Herbie Hancock Jazz Institute Orchestra. Students were inspired by the performances and the atmosphere was electric in the world’s largest modular marquee, seating 10,000 people.
Saturday consisted of the competition element with each ensemble performing in their respective divisions. The students gave it their all for the performances and represented the College at the highest standard possible.
The Stage Band performance featured outstanding solos from senior students and it was an excellent learning experience for junior members of the band.
The Senior Vocal Ensemble presented a very polished performance, with outstanding attention to detail, vocal solos and ensemble skills.
The Senior Jazz Combo competed in the Open Small Combo division for the first time in 2019. This division is entirely student directed with a key emphasis on improvised performance. This was an excellent addition to the tour in 2019 and the students gained a significant amount from their performance experience.
Saturday evening was an opportunity to again be inspired by the international artists at the Gala Concert. There were many highlights including Joey De Francesco’s amazing Hammond Organ solo, Liz Wright’s stunning gospel vocals and Kurt Elling’s extraordinary vocal range.
On the final day of the trip, students attended workshops held by the featured artists. Each artist presented the students with great insight into their own musical journeys and students gained tips and advice for developing their own skills.
Following the workshops, the results were announced. The adjudicators offered valuable feedback to help with future development and the comments were very encouraging.
The Senior Vocal Ensemble placed 5th out of the 25 schools in their division, which was an outstanding result.
Max Villella of Year 12 was announced in the ‘Superband’ for Division 4 for a second year in a row. This placed him as the top guitarists out of 55 bands in Division 4.
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Congratulations to the following students who participated in a very successful Generations in Jazz 2019:Ethan Aquilina, Claire Bello, Sienna De Giorgio, Jessica Depangher, Alessia Di Gregorio, Angela Fenech, TJ Fepuleai, Abigaille Flordeliz, Kane Fuller, Chiara Malacchini Oates, Matthew Montalti, Theodore Pham, James Pougioukas, Jonathan Straube, Max Villella, Aliya Awad, Ashly Reji, Nicoletta Kyvernitakis Lithari, Aaliyah Mathias, Rhea John, Leanne Sebastian, Lisa Shamuyarira, Ava Villella, Luzella Costa
Thank you to all Staff and Alumni who attended to support the students.
Following the retirements of Dr Fulvio Frijo and Mr Graham Bell from their executive leadership positions at the College as from the commencement of third term (15 July 2019), a new structural arrangement has been established to be led by the Deputy Principal (Operations), Mr Cameron Whitford. It has been named the College Operations Group (COG). This is a new and exciting development in our School of Educational Enterprise and will energise the College as it embraces new challenges through a new strategic plan, ‘Towards the Future 2020 – 2024’. Membership of COG Leader: Mr Cameron Whitford, Deputy Principal (Operations) (Mr Whitford will retain Planning) College Accountant: TBA (This role involves managing the areas of payroll, fees management and business affairs) Manager of Information Technology: Mr Matthew Byrne (This role includes all aspects of the operations of information and communication technology and chairing of the ICT Staff Group, but does not include curriculum) Manager of Administration Staff: Ms Santina Giannetta (Similar role as currently fulfilled by Ms Giannetta) Manager of Property & Services: Mr Matthew Browne (This roles assumes responsibility for all buildings and grounds matters and supervision of out-sourced contracts such as cleaning and security et al) Manager of Data Analysis: Mr Michael Quilliam (This role incorporates both business and educational data analysis and involves leading the Data Analysis Team)
In addition, other positions have been allocated to staff members outside of COG. These include: Leader of STEAM Program: Mr Michael Gowers eLearning will be incorporated into the Principal’s Office Leader of Takada Homestay Program: Ms Michelle Delfos All staff are wished well as the College moves in new directions and into the future.
College Operations Group
Mr Cameron W
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Sport
SUCCESS ON THE FIELDThe past three months has been a most successful period for Monican students, Coaches and Teams. We have seen the emergence of our AFL Squads, with Senior Boys and Senior Girls currently undefeated in their respective competitions. The Senior Boys secured their Grand Final spot with one match remaining and will play off for the title on 25 June. Hoping to join them will be the Senior Girls team who are currently first on the SACCSS Ladder in Division 1. Outstanding players thus far include Year 12 students Jack Cicitta and Raquel Deralas.
The senior teams’ success has been underpinned by success at the junior and intermediate level, with the Year 7 Boys team making a Premier League semi-final for the first time in 2 years, along with improved performances from the Junior and Intermediate Girls teams during their one day gala tournament in late May.
The Intermediate Girls Futsal team also recorded recent success by regaining the Intermediate Futsal title with a thrilling penalty shootout against Emmanuel College. The girls dominated the tournament from start to finish, with this win making it 8 out of the last 9 titles coming the way of the College.
The College’s newest team, the “Harriers” enjoyed immediate success in May by finishing 3rd overall in the annual SACCSS Cross Country carnival. In glorious weather, over seventy Monicans took to the hilly Brimbank course with great enthusiasm, recording excellent individual and team results. The highlight of the day came from the College’s Senior Girls team, who recorded 6 out of the top 12 race finishers, including a 1 - 2 finish to Natalie Grimes and Gemma Beninca.
Year 7 students enjoyed their first taste of Premier League action in Term 2, with some outstanding results and much improved performances. Four teams, including both Boys and Girls Volleyball, Boys Football and the Boys AFL team made it through to the semi-finals, with the Boys Football team then progressing through undefeated to the Grand Final. Outstanding players for the team include James Cincev and Marcus Kotronis.
A FRESH APPROACH2019 has seen the College invest heavily in its Sport Program, with the addition of several new initiatives and Coaches across of number of sports. The introduction of the College’s first elite student-athlete program, the Athlete Development Program has been an outstanding success. Thirty-six elite students from more than ten sports were selected to participate in 2019 under the guidance of new High Performance Coach, Joel Hocking. Joel joined the College in 2019 from Carlton Football Club, where he was High Performance Manager. The program entai ls individualised strength and conditioning, technical coaching, performance nutrition advice, allied health support and other high performance support to assist our students reach their goals. For more information on the Athlete Development Program, please see our updated website, www.stmonicas-epping.com/adp/
The College has also employed a number of new Coaches within the program, including former Carlton Football Club Next Generation Academy Manager and Northern Knights Head Coach Mr Brett Potter. Brett comes to the College with over ten years experience as a professional AFL Coach and has taken on the role as Head AFL Coach. Also joining the College is Mr Thomas Wilson, a national level Track and Field athlete and former Long Jump silver medallist at the Youth Commonwealth Games. Thomas has taken on the role as Head Track and Field Coach and Sport Assistant, Participation and Inclusion.
The College has also contracted several other professional coaches, including High Performance Tennis Coach, Paul Vassallo (www.vassallotennis.com.au), representative Netball Coach and College alumni, Sami Kolonis and highly respected Volleyball Coach, Anton Micallef. All of these Coaches are adding value to the existing coaching ranks within the College and we look forward to more success in the future. For more information on the Sport program and opportunities for College students, please see www.stmonicas-epping.com/sport/
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International Basketball
INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL
Chinese Taipei Sports School FederationTaipei City, Taiwan St Monica’s College, Epping
Vs
DATE: Monday, 8 July, 2019 (School Holidays)
TIME: 5.00pm Girls 7.00pm Boys
VENUE: Sport & Assembly Hall Dalton Road Campus St Monica’s College, Epping
Expressions of interest to John Dorge by 17 June, 2019
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Term 2 has been a very busy time for both students and those in the Careers Centre as we begin to get ready for the 2019 - 2020 subject selection period.
Week 3 of the term all Year 7 students received their copy of “The Good Careers Guide’ to assist them with beginning to understand the different careers that are available. By using the guide at home and in the classroom as they move through the Dalton Road Campus we hope that they will begin to recognise how personal interests and talents can lead towards different careers.
We then moved on to one of our biggest events of the year the Course and Careers Expo where students from Year 9 – Year 12 are encouraged to visit our exhibitors and talk about the possible career paths that they are interested in. This year we again had the Police Force, Armed Forces, Apprenticeship Groups and other employment groups join us as well as universities, TAFE and Private RTO organisations. We thank them all for the time and expertise that they share with the students and parents who visited and hope that it has sparked that ‘career talk’ at home as well as at school both in the classroom and the Careers Centre.
Week 7, Year 7 – Year 9 parents and students were invited to attend and information evening ‘Careers in the 21st Century’, which dealt with the changing nature of the workforce (2030) and the attributes and skills that students will need to develop to become ‘lifelong learners’.
As we end the term we begin to move into the subject selection period. During this time Year 10 students will receive a copy of the ‘Where to Now Guide’, VTAC Year 10 Choosing Senior Studies for the Right Reasons’ as well as a ‘Good Careers Guide 2019’. Year 11 and Year 12 students will receive a copy of ‘VTAC Year 11 and Year 12 Guide: Researching courses and applying’ which outlines how to research courses and make your post school applications to the institutions.
We encourage students at all year levels to take their career related materials home and to share the information with parents so that discussions take place about the different options that are available before decisions for 2020 courses of study are decided.
On the evening of Thursday 23 May, 2019, a record number of students competed in the 13th year of the Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery. This year’s theme of “Your Plate is Your Canvas” required the contestants to demonstrate their culinary artistry.
Two highly experienced adjudicators from The Big Group Hospitality Group, Ms Lisa Bolle and Mr Tom Capell tasted their way through panna cotta, biryani, cheesecakes, macarons and falafel among a myriad of other dishes. Each student proudly presented their dish to the judges and spoke to the audience as to how their dish suited the theme. The level of competition was extremely high. The judges were genuinely blown away by the level of skill and presentation shown by the students of St Monica’s College. The adjudication in the 2019 Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery was outstanding with both judges giving expert commentary and constructive feedback referring to the balance of flavours and textures as well as the presentation of the dishes.
At the conclusion of the evening, the judges, Lisa and Tom along with the Principal, Mr Brian Hanley, deliberated as to who the winners of the Encouragement Award and the Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery should be. It was a very hard task, as all the students presented remarkably well. We congratulate Kyle Elias of Year 9 for winning the Encouragement Award for his dish Baked Falafel with Tabbouleh and Home-Made Hummus. The Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery was awarded to David Chessari of Year 11 for his beautifully presented Champagne Panna Cotta.
We look forward to the 2020 Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery and encourage all eligible students to enter.
Careers Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery
Kyle Elias (Year 9) winner of the Encouragement Award with Principal and Judges
David Chessari (Year 11) winner of the Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery with Principal and Judges20
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David Chessari (Year 11) winner of the Principal’s Ribbon for Cookery with Principal and Judges 21
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Alumni Congratulations to…
Amanda Ciorra (Class of 2009) and Adrian Cachia (Class of
2009) on their marriage
Zoe Solomon (Class of 2006) and Dan Cronin on their marriage
David Alessandrino (Class of 2006) and Stephanine Cassar
(Class of 2008) on their marriage
Frank Multari (Class of 2009) and Grace Scriva on their marriage
Nu Phan (Class of 2007) and Warren Cheong on their engagement
Bianca Martin nee Chisari (Class of 2005) and Wesley Martin on the birth of their daughter Niya Rose
Jacinta Zumbo nee De Vito (Class of 2008) and Frank Zumbo (Class of 2008)
on the birth of their daughter Aliyah
Joe Randello (Class of 2002) and Casey Williams on their marriage
Vince Leo (Class of 2009) and Helen Kalafatis on their engagement
Amanda and Adrian
Jacinta, Frank and Aliyah
Zoe and Dan
David and Stephanine
Joe and Casey
Frank and Grace
Nu Phan and Warren
Vince and Helen
Bianca, Wesley and Niya
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Lilliana Forlano (nee De Petro) Class of 2007
Melissa McDonald Class of 2005
Where are they now?
It is crazy to me to think it has been almost 12 years since I proudly walked across that stage as a graduate of St Monica’s. That time has passed so quickly and thanks to SMC I have been able to have the skills to pursue my career goals.
I had always known that I wanted to end up in the beauty industry so once I left I started my pre-apprenticeship in hairdressing. That then lead me to my 10+ years in the field. I was lucky enough to gain employment in independent salons. Observing the salon owners piqued my interest in business ownership, but I still felt passionate about hairdressing and perfecting my skills.
I met my husband, Luke, around the time I started hairdressing. Funnily enough, he attended SMC but he does not remember me, a fact I do not let him live down. He started his bricklaying business at 19 years old, which further inspired me to be open to business opportunities.
August of 2018 we were blessed to welcome our beautiful baby girl Alessia. Being a mother has definitely changed me, as I feel like two different people. On one hand, I am a mother who desires to spend my daughter’s younger years at home, watching her grow. On the other hand I am a woman with career goals.
When my cousin approached me with a home business opportunity in skincare I was excited to learn more. I did my research and quickly realised that this would afford me the ability to be a business owner in the beauty industry that I love, whilst working from home and being a mum to my daughter.
I am now a proud Rodan + Fields Independent Consultant. The best part of this opportunity is having the passion that I had as a hairdresser without having to leave home every day. My “job” is to give people the best skin of their
lives and mentor others in building successful Rodan and Fields businesses of their own.
I am really proud to be associated with this product,and thrilled to be a consultant – Rodan + Fields’ products are formulated by world renowned dermatologists and clinically proven to address skin concerns. My details are in the Alumni online business directory if you are interested.
Above all, I am proud to be a Monican and feel as though having such a wonderful education really set me up to believe in myself and chase my dreams!
As class of 2005, I feel graduating from St Monica’s College was so long ago, yet it still feels like it was yesterday that we were thinking about our careers and where they would take us. I was fortunate enough to be one of those students, who from a young age knew the path I wanted to undertake, Human Resources. Throughout my time at St Monica’s I was always heavily involved in leadership, public speaking and sporting opportunities. And in 2004, I honorably headed to the US representing Australia as part of a leadership conference which St Monica’s nominated me for. Many people would ask me, how I knew from such a young age that this was my field of choice; and whilst I do not have the absolute answer, I can confidently say that the opportunities and exposure that I undertook whilst studying at St Monica’s played a vital role in achieving this realisation .
In 2006 I commenced studying my Bachelor of Business, majoring in Human Resources and Management at La Trobe University which also saw me undertake an amazing opportunity studying International HRM in Bordeaux France. Upon graduating at La Trobe University, I was offered a position within Telstra’s Graduate program which was an incredible honor. Throughout this program, I had the opportunity to work with some amazing international leaders and support incredible company-wide initiatives which saw the start of my career within Human Resources. I undertook several roles during my time at Telstra; Business Partner of Vic/Tas Operations and Relationship Manager to name a few, before I took on my next exciting career move in 2012 where I became the Senior HR Operations
Manager at Austin Health. Throughout my time at Austin Health I transformed their HR department and implemented a shared service function servicing all 8,500 managers and employees. During this time, I was also appointed as a La Trobe University Business School Advisory Board Member to which I am currently still fulfilling.
For a period, I consulted as an Executive Consultant: HR and Strategy Development which was an exciting period. These opportunities allowed me to partner with senior leaders of various companies supporting them through significant operational change execution. In April this year I undertook a new opportunity at Melbourne Racing Club as General Manager; Organisational Capability and Transformation in a part time capacity. MRC are undertaking an exciting period of change, and I will be playing a pivotal role in transforming their People & Culture department during this journey. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of MRC’s 2022 strategy and look forward to what lies ahead.
Whilst I have touched on my professional achievements throughout my career, I must say that my biggest success was the birth of my two beautiful children with my husband David; our son Mason (2.5years) and daughter Charlie (16 months) of which I absolutely enjoyed my time as a stay at home mother for 2.5years. Yes initially it was rather difficult to go from office/career life to everything babies but it was something that I knew was the missing piece to my puzzle, motherhood. Returning to the workforce after children is definitely a tough transition and one I always knew I would make
when the time was right. Whilst I am extremely fortunate to have the support of my husband David who has swapped roles with me as the stay at home parent, I must say that having the support both at home and in the workplace is pivotal in making the balance of motherhood and a career successful. I absolutely encourage everyone to seek a company who supports flexible work arrangements, as I remain a true advocate of work life balance, something I have always promoted as a leader.
Whilst I still have many years ahead in my career, and am truly excited at the thought as to where it may go, I am always so thankful for the support and guidance I received as such a young lady during my time at St Monica’s College. I encourage all students to embrace their time at St Monica’s and explore every opportunity put before you, you just never know where it could take you. Something I always did during my schooling years and I still do to this day is; ask questions, ask lots of questions! Never allow yourself to accept the unknown, always seek to know and understand; something that will allow yourself to forever grow and develop.
I am absolutely proud to be a Monican and share with you my journey since graduating as class of 2005.
Lilliana Forlano
Melissa McDonald
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ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPING 400 Dalton Road, Epping VIC 3076
9409 8800
www.stmonicas-epping.com
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