In 2013 Pope Francis reminded each of us that education is evolving and changing and for learning communities to grow we must take risks. “...in educating a balance must be maintained, your steps must be well balanced, one step on the cornice of safety but the other into the zone of risk. And when the risk becomes safe, the next step must venture into another area of risk. Education cannot be confined to the safety zone.” This year our community will be working with the Diocese of Ballarat and our School Advisory Council in the School Improvement Framework. As a community we are tasked to establish school improvement priorities for the next five years, for us to embed our growth, but to take new risks – to think outside the ordinary to become extraordinary.

The staff have already begun to reflect on our success, accept our challenges and to learn from our last school review. Since the last review our College has certainly grown and matured. Our success has been supported and spearheaded by our Strategic Plan we are now ready to review, question and set new goals to become even better. At Damascus we live by our mantra, ‘be my best, be your best, be our best,’ and this year we are excited to be working in this space with the Diocese of Ballarat, to challenge ourselves.

Last we had our first School Improvement Framework (SIF) meeting in preparation of our review. The SIF is made up of five wedges: Catholic School Culture, Community Engagement, Leadership and Stewardship, Learning and Teaching and Wellbeing all viewed through our Catholic School Vision. Staff had the opportunity to complete the Characteristics of Highly Effective Catholic Schools Survey (CHECS) we are now moving into the process of writing our self-reflection report and all staff will have the opportunity to participate in a key aspect of the SIF – Later this term, parents will be invited to provide feedback, too.

Last week we gathered as a College community for our Opening School Eucharist – it was a wonderful celebration for each of us to enriched by our faith tradition. Thanks to Father Justin Driscoll who led our celebration.

This weekend Damascus hosted the Annual Head of Lake at Lake Wendouree. I am grateful for the leadership of Paul Blanchfield and Linda Skidmore, supported by Gavin Webb as Sports Co-ordinator. This year our teams performed wonderfully and displayed a new level of tenacity and enthusiasm. Congratulations to all our crews for their impressive performances with a big shout out to Will Busuttil who took home the School Boys Single Skull, open division 1 race. I was particularly proud of our Year 12 Students who have built on the tradition of our past years and have created even stronger spit crews. The sense of school pride was infectious and palpable well done to our Year 12 student leaders. Thanks to the many staff and parents who came along and supported our young people, in particular to our rowing parent volunteers.

Thursday we have our scheduled Swimming Carnival at the Eureka aquatic centre. As per the newsletter a fortnight ago, students are to arrive at school as normal in the morning and will be transported to the pool from Damascus. The swimming sports, as with every weekday, is a compulsory school day for all students. The sports are an excellent opportunity for students to live life to the full. Not everyone enjoys participating in the swimming events so we have a diverse range of activities to encourage student participation. It is not uncommon for students to put pressure on parents and carers not to attend school on these days but it is imperative that parents stand firm and point out that community events are an important opportunity to learn and to build both team and school spirit.

I wish to flag for Year 7 families the “Meet the Teachers” evening that will take place Wednesday March 13th. Could you please put this in your diary as it is a key element of the Year 7 student induction for 2024.

As we navigate through the challenging forth week in the quest to find Samantha Murphy, I ask you to embrace the Murphy family with the strength of your prayers for a positive resolution.

We understand that this is a distressing time for many in our school community and I encourage any family who feels they or their children would benefit from our College support services to contact their student’s Teacher Advisor, House Leader or Counselling Team on 5337 2222.

I would like to acknowledge the staff and community support through ongoing search parties as we hope and pray for a positive outcome.

On Thursday, 29 February 2024 students will attend the annual House Swimming carnival which will be held at the Eureka Swimming Pool. Students must wear their PE uniform to school but may wear an appropriate House coloured top, supporting their House. All students will travel by bus to and from the venue, with no students permitted to arrive at the pool or leave from the pool (other than those leaving for their VET course at lunchtime).

As with every school day, the Swimming Carnival is a compulsory activity for all students and provides an excellent opportunity for students to Be.Their.Best! Not everyone is a talented swimmer, but there are a diverse range of activities to encourage student participation. We remind families that the College encourages students to be SunSmart for this event, in that they wear a hat and use and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. We would encourage families to reiterate the message with their students on the day.

It is not uncommon for students to pressure parents and carers not to attend school on sports days, but it is imperative that parents/carers stand firm and point out that community events are an important opportunity to learn and build both team and school spirit. Our focus throughout our sports program across the College is on participation. The team with the greatest level of participation has invariably been recognised as the overall winner at the carnival. Students who do not attend school on Thursday without a legitimate reason will not be eligible to attend College formals or extracurricular activities.

Following the con conclusion of the carnival, announcements will be made back at school of the Age group champions and the winning House.

Next Friday, 8 March 2024 is International Women's Day; it's a global day celebrating women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. We acknowledge that there is still work to be done in achieving equality and safety for women in our global community. We have been fortunate to have so many women work to progress our community and society, and we acknowledge those who came before us, those amongst us and those in the future. The College will acknowledge International Women’s Day next Friday, with a breakfast and guest speakers. More details will be communicated in the coming days.

We extend a prayer of gratitude for all the women in our lives, for their strength, courage and inspiration, and we pray that we can continue to develop as a society with just and safe equality for all.

Our young Damascus rowers proudly represented their College in the Head of the Lake Regatta on Sunday. Students got off the water proud of their best effort, each acknowledging that they had done their best. Rowing Coordinator, Paul Blanchfield, Assistant Rowing Coordinator Linda Skidmore, College Staff member Claudia Griffin and the exceptional team of Damascus coaches continue to build on a culture of students doing and being their best, which was very evident on Sunday. Congratulations to all rowers, coaches, support staff and volunteers for their enormous efforts, not only on Sunday but their entire 2023/2024 season to date.

There are a diverse range of excursions to support classroom learning taking place over the next week, and I encourage families to check PAM permissions and take a look at your student's progress while there.

The new Senior Learning Building comprising of 23 classrooms over three levels is progressing very well, with the basement level foundations complete, and now developing the supporting structures for the ground level concrete pour. It is exciting to see this building project progress through its stages.

Opening College Mass

Last Friday saw the official opening of our school year at Damascus College, with Mass being celebrated by Fr. Justin Driscoll. We were pleased to be able to welcome guests including members of our parent body, School Advisory Council and Sisters of Mercy who joined us for this occasion. The focus of the Mass was the College theme of “Living Mercy”.

The theme “Living Mercy” calls us to action. Insights of what this can mean to us in our daily lives was shared through Fr. Justin’s homily and other reflections throughout the Mass.

“Living Mercy” calls us to be compassionate people who not only see a need but do something about it. It calls us to seek justice, not only for ourselves but for all of God’s people, to “love our neighbour” and care for all creations as God calls us to do.

The call to live the Mercy values is a challenge which requires us to show courage, as being the people we need to be is not always easy.

In a special presentation at the end of the Mass, Sr. Veronica Lawson presented Mercy Values posters to our House Leaders who will now distribute them to each Teacher Advisor so they are seen in each classroom in our school. This year we aim to be people who espouse Mercy values, and we look forward to what 2024 brings.

A Light Shining Bright: Haileigh Buttigieg Inspires Us All

The Damascus College community beams with pride as we celebrate the inspirational achievements of Haileigh Buttigieg. Selected to interview acclaimed scientist Professor Misty Jenkins for International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February 2024, Haileigh grasped this opportunity with both hands. She exemplifies the power of perseverance and passion in pursuing one's dreams.

Though understandably awed by the occasion, Haileigh exuded poise and professionalism. Her grasp of the issues demonstrated a wisdom beyond her years. This extraordinary young woman is a role model to all students - especially young women considering careers in STEM. She illuminates a path forward, guiding others to fulfil their potential.

You can see Haileigh in action in this inspiring video of her interview with Professor Jenkins.

In Haileigh's own words: "It was so astonishing to see that just a teenage girl from a small country town was personally asked to be part of such a big contribution that will be seen all over the world”. She and her peer, Chelsea, travelled to Melbourne early on the morning of the interview to Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI).

Her light emanates from her commitment to learning and discovery. By pushing boundaries, she steps boldly into the unknown. Her example speaks volumes in a world that still underestimates women's contributions. Let us echo Jesus's teaching: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”. (Matthew 5:16)

The staff at Damascus College, along with Haileigh's family, form the nurturing community that empowers her success. We build self-belief and cultivate skills for life. Education is transformation. Haileigh manifests this by sowing seeds of change for women worldwide.

On International Women's Day on 8 March 2024, we acknowledge the sacrifices made by generations of women scientists. Their collective struggle birthed today's opportunities. To honour them, we must push forward. Progress depends on actively including women at all levels of science, technology and leadership.

Haileigh Buttigieg ignites this vision. By boldly pursuing her passions, she inspires women everywhere to achieve their potential. Let Haileigh's dazzling example encourage all students to shine their brightest. Together, guided by faith and enlightened by learning, we can build a just and inclusive world.

The 2024 theme for International Women's Day is "Inspire Inclusion”. This theme recognises that women's economic empowerment is essential for gender equality. When women have equal opportunities to earn, learn, and lead - entire communities prosper.

Events like Haileigh's inspirational interview highlight the capabilities of women. They showcase the vital perspectives women bring to science, technology, and leadership. International Women's Day calls us to action. By investing in women and girls, we can accelerate human progress for all.

The light of women scientists, scholars, and leaders shines brightly at Damascus College. We celebrate their past and future achievements. Empowered by faith and learning, our community charges forward. On International Women's Day, we re-commit to full inclusion and equality. With God's grace, each woman's light will illuminate the world.

Congratulations to Paul Blanchfield and the many coaches who assisted with the Damascus Rowing Crew at Sunday’s Head of the Lake. The Head of the Lake is an esteemed event emersed in the tradition of many schools in Ballarat. While Damascus College is relatively new to rowing in Ballarat, we can be immensely proud of our crew and their eager competitiveness. I was also incredibly proud of the large number of support crew of students that made their way to Lake Wendouree on Sunday. We had over 100 Year 12 students officially register for the official support squad with many other students arriving on the day. As Mr Grant pointed out, one of the neat features of our squad is the acknowledgement they offer other schools applauding the victors of all races. As I have noted many times before, the engagement of young people in sport enables them to develop social and emotional awareness and skills which are clearly linked to improved student holistic outcomes. I look forward to fantastic student participation in the upcoming swimming sports and thank Mr Webb for the enormous amount of work that goes into preparing these events.

Ashwin Pillai, Assistant Principal -Teaching and Learning, and I often come together in our respective portfolio to examine how we can continue to develop the holistic growth of young people in our College community. This week our attention was drawn to a research paper from Melbourne University titled Future Proofing Our Students: What they need to know and how educators can assess and credential them. While the paper acknowledged that there is a need to continue to develop “the basics of literacy, numeracy and the use of information and communication technology” there is clearly a need to integrate the broader capabilities of communication, collaboration persistence, creativity and the capacity to use feedback in all teaching and learning programs. Damascus College has long held that the development of social and emotional learning is the foundation of not only student wellbeing but also a significant contributor for students to thrive in their teaching and learning. Furthermore, the article explains that in order to upskill learners and to future-proof them, we need to assess these capabilities, offer feedback on how they are performing and report their progress to external stakeholders, such as parents and potential employers. As you unpack student’s assessment and school reports I encourage you to recognise not only the final grade that your student has achieved but also acknowledge the social and emotional competencies that are becoming equally regarded in universities and the work place. These are continually evaluated by staff and recognised on school reports and awards and achievement nights.

Finally I offer my prayers and thoughts to our community as they experience the threat of bushfires on or around their properties. Please ensure you have downloaded the Vic Emergency app and follow the advice given.

Recently, the Western Bulldogs VFLW side took over the Damascus College Dunnstown site for part of their development camp.

They enjoyed time at the campus, along with various activities in and around the local Dunnstown community.

We look forward to welcoming the next bunch of amazing rising stars for the Western Bulldogs in the coming years!

The production of Annie begins Thursday 29th February at the Civic Hall - Ballarat. There has for many years been a proud tradition of staff and student involvement in local theatre productions. Auditions and rehearsal for this classic musical began last year and as the cast and crew move into the theatre this week there is much excitement as the final preparations for opening night begin.

The production will be directed by our own Nicole Burness who has had a long association with Ballarat Lyric Theatre through various production roles. Other current students and alumni include;

Current Students:

Orphans:

Anna Renolds (7) Annie,

Annabelle Lethlean (7) as July,

Josie McGinniss (8) Duffy

Lilly Retallick (9) Pepper

Ensemble Roles:

Archie Jones (10) Foley Artisist/Cabinet Member

Dana Reynolds, (10) Sophie/Rockette

Tilly Jones- (11) Star to Be/ Rockette

Charlie McGinniss (11) Cabinet member/Sailor

Declan Edan (12) Cabinet Member/Sailor

Taya Thiele (12)-Ronnie Boyland /Rockette

Crew:

Charlotte Doherty (12),

Alumni:

Elarin Johnston - Crew

Rose Spencer- Connie Boyland/Mrs Greer

Carlie Steinhuis - Assistant Stage Manager

Megan Poynton - Senior Radio Mic Technician

Aaron Rivet -Sound Engineer

Get your tickets NOW at https://www.ballaratlyrictheatre.com.au/home

A BIG congratulations to Damascus College’s ‘Art Making and Exhibiting’ student from 2024, Brynne Milne, for winning one of only three awards in the Next Gen Exhibition. Brinn’s artwork featured alongside 37 other pieces selected to showcase the skills of regional students who have just completed VCE studies in: Art Creative Practice, Art Making and Exhibiting, Media, Visual Communication Design, Product Design and Technology.

Her winning painting ‘Kairosclerosis’ was created using oil paints on a wooden panel, and defines the moment you realise that you’re currently happy—consciously trying to savour the feeling—which prompts your intellect to identify it, pick it apart and put it in context, where it will slowly dissolve until it’s little more than an aftertaste.

The figure curled up clutching the light (happiness) reflects the unwillingness to let go in fear that the surrounding darkness will be all-consuming; but that desperation to hold on is what results in the cherished moment to dissipate.

The awards night officially opened the exhibition last Friday at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. The night was a wonderful whirlwind of young artists, proud parents and teachers mixed with awe-inspiring artworks.

The ‘Next Gen’ exhibition is free and runs until the 21 April at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

Come for an insight into the world of young people today, through extraordinary artworks revealing their vision, ideas and skills.

At the start of the year, we welcomed to the science Learning Area our eager Year 7 students along with new staff, Danielle Nyikos and Katrina McMahon. Year 7-12 Science students have enthusiastically embraced their first unit of work, complementing theory with lots of practical work. Let’s have a look at a few of activities.

Year 12 Physics Practical application activities

In this activity students were building a track for hot wheel cars which illustrates the physics behind circular motion, kinetic and potential energies, and gravity. In the second picture students are using their knowledge of projectile motion to line up ramps taking a marble from the tabletop and completing a vertical loop. This activity uses the theories of gravitational potential energy and vertical circular motion.

Year 7 Science

Students have begun developing skills in Science and knowing that Science is about understanding the natural world around us – observing, asking questions, using what we already know, coming up with some possible answers, find a way to test them , showing curiosity and persistence, and possible finding answers.

In their first practical activity, students investigated how bubbles work e.g. how wet and dry fingers affect bubbles, what they need to do to blow the tallest bubble.

Haileigh Buttigieg (Year 11)

Congratulations to Haileigh Buttigieg (Year 11), an aspiring neurologist, on the outstanding interview recorded with Professor Misty Jenkins from The Brain Centre, for the International Day of Women and Girls in Science which was on 11^th February, 2024. Haileigh organised to travel to Melbourne during her holidays to prepare and record the interview with Professor Jenkins, demonstrating incredible maturity and commitment. The cancer researchers and staff at The Brain Cancer Centre are extremely impressed with Haileigh and look forward to following her progress as she continues her VCE and tertiary studies. Hailey took up many opportunities during her participation in the Ballarat Tech School’s Girl in STEM program in 2023. Damascus College, along with the Ballarat Tech School are incredibly proud of Haileigh and congratulate her on this latest endeavour.

The interview is now published online by The Brain Cancer Centre: https://www.thebraincancercentre.org.au/ and can also be accessed via YouTube and Instagram links.

• Extended interview link - Haileigh & Misty Jenkins (youtube.com)
• Instagram short interview link - https://www.instagram.com/p/C3L0SpXMAQ7/

Introduction to Horticulture begins during harvest season! As such, one of our first assessments is a ‘Farmer’s Market’, where students use produce from the garden, in combination with their understanding of the 7’P’s Model of Marketing, to make a profit from their labour. They are asked to get creative in coming up with the best ways to sell their products. Raspberries picked over the summer are turned into ‘Hand picked, home-style, organic jam’; branding and packaging is developed for dried bay-leaves; crops are protected with netting and fertilised for maximum growth; and plans are made for when and how to harvest the produce. And of course, there are always weeds to tackle!

Exciting Start to the Year for Visual and Performing Arts at Damascus College!

Welcome back, Damascus College community! As we embark on another year filled with creativity and expression, the Visual and Performing Arts department is thrilled to kick off the term with a burst of artistic energy.

Our budding artists in Year 7 and 8 have wasted no time diving into their exploration of Design Elements and Principles. Their latest endeavor? Crafting intricate 3D illustrations of lighthouses that showcase their imagination and innovative pencil techniques. From cross-hatching to stippling, shading to smudging, our students are fearlessly experimenting with various artistic styles, resulting in stunning creations. It's truly heart-warming to witness their willingness to take risks and embrace the learning process, all while honing their drawing skills.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! This term, our young artists will channel their newfound skills into upcoming Visual Arts projects, promising even more captivating works to come.

Meanwhile, over in the realm of music, our Year 11 and 12 VCE students are fully immersed in a world of melody and rhythm. Whether they're perfecting their performance techniques, composing original pieces, or delving into musical analysis, their dedication is nothing short of inspiring.

In VCD and Media, students are busy building their technical vocabulary and skills, applying them to individual projects and productions with enthusiasm and creativity.

And let's not forget about the dramatic flair of our school! Auditions for the upcoming production of The Brother's Grimm Spectaculathon have concluded, with casting now underway. It's a testament to the talent and passion of our drama students, and we can't wait to see the magic they'll bring to the stage.

For those looking to get involved outside of class, our art and drama clubs are back in full swing at lunchtimes, offering a space for students to further explore their artistic interests and connect with like-minded peers.

And last but certainly not least, our choirs and music ensembles are already hard at work rehearsing before school, setting the stage for another year filled with beautiful harmonies and memorable performances.

As we embark on this journey of creativity and expression together, let's celebrate the talent, dedication, and passion of our Damascus College artists and performers. Here's to a year filled with boundless artistic exploration and unforgettable moments!

Conveyance Allowance

To be eligible for a conveyance allowance, individual students will be assessed under the following criteria:

1. Attend a school/campus located outside the metropolitan conveyance allowance boundary
2. Attend the closest appropriate school/campus at which admission is permissible
3. For students attending specialist schools, this will be determined by the specialist school’s Designated Transport Area (DTA) in which the student resides
4. For students attending government schools, this will be the closest school/campus appropriate to the age and gender of the student (e.g. primary, secondary, single sex)
5. For students attending non-government schools, this will be the closest school/campus of the recognised denomination for conveyance allowance purposes.
6. Reside 4.8km or more from the school/campus (shortest practicable route calculated by the school attended at the time of application from the student’s home to the school/campus)
7. Be of school age (between five and 18-years-old at the time of application), and a resident of Victoria
8. Be enrolled and travelling to school three or more days per week.

Students’ circumstances can change during their school years (e.g. moving residence or changing schools/campuses). Change of circumstances affects eligibility and a new application must be submitted with each change of circumstance.

Private car
A private car conveyance allowance is not available if the journey could have been made using a public transport service or free school bus.

• Where there is more than one student in the vehicle, there are two rates claimable: ‘furthermost’ and ‘additional.’
• Where there is more than one student in a vehicle, and they attend different schools, the amount claimable is based on the distance travelled to school by each student. That is each student must be the subject of a separate application and the student attending the furthermost school is identified as the ‘furthermost’ student; each of the other students must be claimed as ‘additional’.
• Rates are calculated according to the distance (measured in kilometres) from home to the campus attended using the Department’s standard measurement method; for details of the rates claimable, refer to Appendix 1 Conveyance Allowance Rates
• It is assumed that all students from the same family will travel in one car therefore only one family member may claim furthermost student allowance.

Pro-rata adjustment of reimbursement (time fraction)

Where students change school, transport mode and/or address that affect the payment of conveyance allowance, pro-rata payments are made, having regard to the number of days of actual attendance. It is the responsibility of each school to report any mid-semester student changes and the required pro-rata adjustments that are required.

Late payments
Late (past year) applications cannot be accepted or paid.

Any inquiries relating to this allowance or to any bus travel matter may be directed to Tracey Williams at the College office Phone: 5337 2222.

** FAMILIES ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT A NEW CLAIM FORM EACH YEAR. FORMS TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE OFFICE NO LATER THAN MARCH 8^TH **

We are away!

Well done to all 100 students who have eagerly signed up to represent the college in BAS Term 1 Sport. The respective coaches have run recess meetings, taken lunch time training sessions, been communicating on MS Teams/email and Round 1 matches have been completed. Your parents/carers will have received a PAM letter with all the details for Term 1 Sport, please ensure permission is given in a timely manner so that we are not contacting home on the day of a match.

The morning notices will continue to be full of sport information (key dates, meeting times, weekly fixtures, bus arrangements etc.) and it is vital that you regularly check your emails, MS Teams and the school App for the most up to date sport information. As you will have noted already MS Teams will be the main form of communication on a weekly basis.

See below the BAS Term 1 schedule, a huge thank you to the staff who have offered to coach teams (and those staff who are travelling on busses) and share their expertise. Students need to listen, accept the fact that they will not play every single minute of every single game, being part of a team involves being rotated and spending some time on the bench. Enjoy the challenge and most of all have plenty of fun!

Head of the Lake

Congratulations to our 50 rowers who competed in the Head of The Lake, in this our 10^th year participating in rowing. I would like to thanks Paul Blanchfield and Linda Skidmore and all the coaches for preparing the students as best as possible. The hours of training will have all been worth it and it is a privilege to row at the biggest regatta on the Ballarat calendar. Full results will be published as they come to hand.

BAS Tennis Singles Championships

Monday, February 26 saw the annual BAS Tennis Championships held at the Ballarat Regional Tennis Centre in Wendouree. The following students represented the college and competed against the best that the other BAS schools have to offer. Thank you to Mrs. Sue Leaney, who assisted on the day.

Junior Girls – Alice Glover (Year 8) and Elsie Angove (Year 8)

Junior Boys – Hamish McNaughton (Year 9)

Senior Girls – Keira O’Beirne (Year 10) and Charley Ward (Year 11)

Senior Boys – Jarrod Joyce (Year 12) and Brayden Joyce (Year 12).

Final results will be published soon, with finals to be played on Thursday, February 29.

Clay Target Shooting

Laang Sporting Clays will host the Warrnambool Region Clay Target Shooting Competition on Monday, March 4. Well done to the following nine students who will represent the college, this is a big commitment, with the bus leaving at 7:00am from St. Patrick’s College, as we are sharing a bus with them.

Jack Dwyer, Darcy Smits, Tom Grigg, Denny Mahar, Bella Mahar, Kara Longmire, Imogen Wright, Lewis Carbone and Casey Leonard. Thank you to Mr. Chris Grant for supervising on the day.

Damascus Swimming Carnival & BAS Swimming

On Thursday, February 8 an extended TA was held to enable all students to attend House Meetings and then Year Level sign-ups for the Damascus Swimming Carnival. Well done to all those students who put their hand up and entered into the Heats. For those who are less experienced in the pool there are still plenty of ways to earn points for your House. The 25m pool with host events throughout the day, as well novelty events such as basketball, bocce and volleyball. Thank you to all the staff who assisted with the sign ups, a huge task. The Carnival will be held on Thursday, February 29 at the Eureka Pool. All students are to attend TA and will be bussed down with staff and return to school for dismissal at 3:18pm. No students will be dismissed from the pool, which is a change from last year.

Once final results are in, the squad for the BAS Swimming Carnival will be finalised and published. Wednesday, March 20 is the date, and it will be held at the Ballarat Aquatic Centre, starting at 11:30am. Any inquiries regarding swimming please do not hesitate to contact Patty Dillon or myself via email or drop down to the gym and say hello.

Damascus Athletics Carnival & BAS Athletics

The Damascus Athletics Carnival will be held on Tuesday, March 19 at Llanberis. An extended TA and House Assembly will be on Thursday March 7 to sign up for events. Please note that the BAS Athletics Carnival is at Llanberis on Wednesday, May 1, Term 2 (more information to come).

Term 1 Key Dates

Damascus Sport Uniform

Students need to ensure they are in the correct uniform to participate. Students should check with their coach as to what is required. Also, remember to wear sunscreen at all times if competing outside and bring your own drink bottle.

I wish all students and coaches the best in 2024. Always play the game in the right spirit, wear the correct uniform, respect the umpires, staff in charge and the facilities. You all have an opportunity to add to your school experience by being the best you can be, both in and out of the classroom.

Please do not hesitate to contact myself (g.webb@damascus.vic.edu.au) or Sport and PE Administrator, Patty Dillon (p.dillon@damascus.vic.edu.au) at the College with any questions.

Regards,

Gavin Webb

Sports Co-ordinator

Congratulations to Poppy Boucher, Class of 2023, who has been asked to perform two solos at the VCAA Top Class Dance.

Poppy completed VCE Dance 3&4 last year through Virtual School Victoria and having achieved high grades, Poppy was invited to audition for the VCAA Top Class Dance.

Poppy will perform her Skills-based and Cohesive Competition solos in March at the Melbourne Recital Centre, and then will continue to perform in the regional VCAA Top Class Dance 2024 Tour in April.

Well done Poppy on this outstanding achievement and we wish you all the very best for your solos.

Damascus College held our annual bake sale on Tuesday 20 Feb organised by the student representative council (SRC).

Students were asked to bring in home-made treats to be sold among Damascus students and staff, at recess in the courtyard.

It was great to see lots of happy faces and smiles while raising funds for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion!

HPE has had a busy and exciting start to the 2024 school year. Year 7 students were introduced to athletics and have shown excellent skill and determination in both track and field events practiced. In Term 2 Year 7 students will begin their swimming unit with more information being released on PAM in the coming weeks. Other practical classes include Basketball for Year 8, Ultimate Frisbee for Year 9, and Touch Rugby for Year 10.

Unit 1 PE classes are studying muscles and bones whilst Unit 1 HHD are evaluating the Dimensions of Health. Unit 3 Physical Education are currently studying biomechanics as they approach their first SAC for the unit. To aid students with their understanding Damascus facilitated a biomechanics seminar. The lesson combined theory with practical activities. Topics covered included force, summation of momentum, friction impulse, moment of inertia and angular velocity. Students were involved in practical activities such as timed runs with a weight vest, different methods of hockey passing, and using the spin discs.

Congratulations to Year 9 students Mason Sutton and Daniel Ryan, who have recently found success with their Victorian State hockey selections.

Mason has been selected for the Victorian U16 Boys State Hockey Team for 2024, and Daniel was selected as the train-on goal keeper for the Victorian State Development team.

They have both been selected in the Victoria Academy Squad and have been training throughout January multiple times a week in Melbourne, for six weeks prior to the State Team trials and selections.

Mason and Daniel are both bottom age players, so this is an incredible achievement for both of them. They will now continue regular training in Melbourne in the preparation for the National Championships in Hobart in April.

Well done Mason and Daniel.

Our newest members of the Damascus community journeyed to Log Cabin Creswick for the Year 7 Camp on 12-16 Feb.

This camp is a wonderful way for new students to meet new friends, try new things, and develop a greater sense of themselves, in a supported and fun environment.

Students enjoyed canoeing, the zip line, the leap of faith, archery, and many other team building activities. Other activities include, the Giant Swing, Hut Building, Damper making, Night walk, swimming and socialising in free time and meeting new friends.

The students are often taken out of their comfort zone with some of the challenging activities, it was great to see them step up and face their fears and anxieties. Even sleeping overnight poses challenges that help in the growth and maturity of the students.

Learning how to look after themselves and clean up after themselves, learning how to listen to instructions, how to cooperate and function within an unfamiliar group. Learning some resilience, trying new foods, and learning to be respectful of those around them and respectful towards the environment and Bonding with their House group, their teachers and House Leader

It’s been a big week for Damascus Year 7 students, with camp, reflection day and many other formative events that will shape them as strong young people, and set them up for a great year ahead.

Earlier this week, Damascus College Year 8 students undertook an ESTEEM Activity: Collaboration, Creativity and Cardboard version 2024.

A mainstay of the Damascus ESTEEM program, the Cardboard Flat Pack Chair Challenge brought out the creativity and design skills of the students. It was exciting to see the enthusiasm our students showed in approaching the task and the unique solutions they presented. Students were given 120 minutes to research, plan, construct and test their designs to evaluate if they conformed to the client brief of being flat packed, easily constructed and able to hold specified mass.

Damascus looks forward to exploring new challenges with the ESTEEM classes during 2024.

#DamascusCollege #DamascusPride #BeMyBest #ImReadyToTakeOnAnything

Please find following a flyer from CAFS in relation to Foster Care: -